The mind that turns ever outward

Will have no end to craving.

Only the mind turned inward

Will find a still-point of peace.

~ the Tao

Mercury Stations Retrograde at the Taurus New Moon

"Mercury will turn Retrograde tomorrow (May 18, 6:49pm Pacific), though we’ve been “in the shadow” – i.e., under the influence – since May 4. And this has felt like a particularly noticeable shadow period, replete with techno-glitches, miscommunications and mental confusion, perhaps because the Messenger God is in its home sign of Gemini. As Mercury stands still in the sky preparing to reverse directions (or appearing to, from our earthly perspective), we’re advised to do the same – to slow down, hit the pause button on our busy lives, and take time to reflect and simply BE. For the next three weeks, until June 11, Mercury Retro is ideal for turning inward, reviewing and resolving past issues, and rethinking how you want to move forward. Generally speaking, this is not the best time to launch a brand-new project or life direction. Now IS the time to back up computer data, take care of any car maintenance or repairs, and double-check all travel-related details. In Gemini, the sign that rules the mind, this Mercury Retro puts an extra emphasis on rewiring perception – we have the opportunity to release old belief systems that block us from seeing clearly in present time, and to get new and useful perspectives that can help us resolve challenging situations. We’re more likely to get these “ahas” by softening our minds, being receptive and open to intuitive insights, rather than through logical analysis or looking outside ourselves for answers.

Tonight’s New Moon in Taurus (9:14pm Pacific) is infused with the Retro vibe, meaning that, while the New Moon typically inspires a new beginning, this lunar cycle may be more about REnewing.  Here are some thoughts about how to combine these Mercury Retro/Taurus New Moon energies:

- realign with your values and priorities

- rewire your perceptions about money, security and abundance

- recommit to your creativity

- reawaken pleasure, sensuality and beauty

- reconnect with your body’s wisdom and with the Earth

- regenerate self-love and self-worth

- restore self-care practices

- release feelings of lack, scarcity and being in survival mode"

~Emily Trinkaus