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Arrival of final retrograde Mercury of year: Start date and precautions to take

Arrival of final retrograde Mercury of year: Start date and precautions to take Illustrative photo (Photo: pixabay.com)
Author: Daria Shekina

Shortly, the period of this year's final Mercury retrograde will begin. It will last for the last three weeks of the year and conclude on January 2, 2024.

RBC-Ukraine shares insights on what to know about the 2023 Mercury retrograde.

Sources used in crafting the material: Wikipedia, AstroTalk, Astromeredian.

When Mercury retrograde will occur

The final period of Mercury retrograde in 2023 will begin on December 13, 2023, and last until January 2, 2024.

Mercury retrograde is a period when the planet appears to move backward in its orbit. In reality, the planet continues along its trajectory, but an optical illusion makes it seem like it's moving in reverse.

Typically, Mercury goes into this backward motion several times a year, lasting for roughly three weeks each time. However, astrologers have long noted that periods of Mercury retrograde significantly affect people's lives.

Unexpected situations and disruptions occur, work slows down, agreements break, plans are disrupted, relationships with loved ones worsen, and problems arise in various spheres of life.

Mercury's influence

Mercury is the planet of communication and intellect, governing negotiations, the transmission of information, paperwork, learning, travel, and trade.

It significantly impacts family and romantic relationships, personal communication, and understanding. This planet also affects thoughts, speech, and decision-making.

During Mercury's retrograde movement, these areas tend to experience disruptions, slowdowns, obstacles, decreased understanding, and comprehension levels. Old acquaintances or unresolved issues from the past may resurface during this time.

What Mercury represents

Mercury is the planet of communication and intellect, governing negotiations, the receipt and transmission of information, paperwork, education, trips, and trade.

It has a significant impact on familial and romantic relationships, personal communication, understanding, thoughts, speech, and decision-making.

During Mercury's retrograde movement, these areas often experience disruptions, slow-downs, obstacles, communication issues, and a decrease in mutual understanding. Old acquaintances or unresolved matters from the past might resurface.

Influence of Mercury retrograde

  • During these periods, various occurrences might arise:
  • Delays and transportation issues
  • Learning disruptions and delays
  • Confusion in numbers and time
  • Confusion in documentation
  • Issues with communication technology
  • Forgetfulness, misunderstanding, absent-mindedness
  • Reappearance of individuals from the past
  • Resurfacing of past tasks and matters
  • Increased fraudulent activities and mental health concerns
  • Misunderstandings, baseless arguments, conflict situations
  • Rise in road accidents
  • Natural disasters might occur
  • What you can do:
  • Complete pending tasks
  • Meet up with friends
  • Reconcile with someone you've been at odds with
  • Focus on health – cleanse the body, follow a diet
  • Start a workout routine
  • File complaints and statements where necessary
  • Organize things, discard clutter
  • Perform minor repairs or attend to long overdue maintenance
  • Clarify conversations when communicating with others
  • Thoroughly check documentation, take photos, and make copies
  • Engage in creative activities
  • Meditate
  • Take courses or classes
  • Cleanse gadgets from unnecessary information

What to avoid:

  • Handle financial transactions cautiously, avoiding significant ones
  • Refrain from investments, especially in foreign currencies
  • Exercise caution around fire
  • Avoid signing leases or buying property, vehicles
  • Don't lend or borrow, or engage in credit arrangements
  • Postpone distant trips if possible
  • Avoid buying electronics or technology
  • Be cautious with strangers or acquaintances
  • Be careful with online purchases
  • Refrain from impulsive decisions, new projects, or career changes
  • Avoid confronting relationship issues, inciting arguments, or starting conflicts
  • Avoid terminating relationships hastily or rushing into marriage.

Earlier, we wrote about the astronomical events Ukrainians can enjoy in December.

We also discussed essential tasks that need completion before the New Year.