The Aspects December 2009 - 2010

The two key aspects that are going to affect us all in one way or another are the Mercury retrograde from December 26th 2009 until January 14th 2010 and also the Mars retrograde from December 20th 2009 until March 10th 2010. Forewarned is forearmed so I thought I’d write about the possible effects of these retrogrades.

I have spoken at length about Mercury retrograde in the past but to summarise:

What to avoid during Mercury retrograde:
Signing legal documents
Closing big deals
Launching new projects
Scheduling meetings to make a big decision
Backup your hard drive before the retrograde
Avoid installing new computer software during the retrograde
Do needed repairs on machinery before the retrograde

It’s a good time to:
Do follow ups on a project already started
Complete a project already started
Research a new project thoroughly
Catch up on paperwork
Hold an information-sharing meeting

While Mercury goes retrograde between 3 and 4 times every year, Mars only goes retrograde on average every 2 years and 2 months. During this time, our approach to conflict, anger, assertiveness and taking action often requires rethinking and reassessing.

You may be required to draw on your strengths to assert yourself in some area where you have been reticent or cautious. The weakest links in your life may break apart or need to be repaired. You might need to find new ways in which to feel empowered. During the retrograde we tend to be much more sensitive to disagreement, conflict and power issues around us. For those of you who are already very sensitive to this – dear Librans and Pisceans in particular – you will feel this retrograde even more keenly.

You will need to examine what you do when you feel frightened – what are your automatic responses? Do you immediately run for cover or do you face your fears? Mars retrograde is a great opportunity to explore the deeper dynamics and issues that trigger intense reactions inside you.

The idea is to learn a healthy way to integrate and respond to aggression and fear. If you find yourself overwhelmed by feelings, passion or anger, it can be important to have a trusted person or mentor to whom you can confide in. Don’t let your pride, embarrassment or guilt get in the way of reaching out for support if you find you are having a hard time.

You may, on the other hand, find yourself inspired and motivated in new ways. Don’t let yourself be held back by inhibitions, expectations of others or past history. Mars motivation is a gift. However, don’t expect immediate results. Mars energy tends to move fast and gets frustrated easily if things don’t move along as quickly as they are planned. Find ways to keep your Mars energy occupied – either by physical activity or multi-tasking.

It’s a great time to plan a course from where you are now to where you want to be, and then start to move toward it when you feel ready. For new or long-term projects this is often best done after Mars goes direct. During the retrograde it’s best to research, plan and delve under the surface of whatever situation you are in before you actually take steps in your new direction.

This is a wonderful time for discovery and exploration of uncharted territory in your life. Think of yourself as a warrior, setting out to new horizons and experiences. It may be dangerous at times, but it sure is exciting!