Mercury Retrograde in Taurus ☿ 2023

artist: Nash Weerasekera

Mercury enters Taurus: Apr 3

Mercury Retrograde in Taurus: Apr 21 – May 14

Mercury enters Gemini: June 11

Planets in retrograde are not actually spinning backwards – it is an optical illusion as seen from Earth. Backwards motion appears to happen when Earth passes slower moving planets in the outer solar system. In astrology, this illusion manifests as a “backwards” functioning of the planetary roles. Click here to learn more about retrograde.

Mercury turns retrograde three times a year, more frequently than any other planet. Mercury represents communication, travel and technology. These are the realms affected by Mercury Retrograde. Expect delays, cancellations and sudden changes; technological failures, especially cell phones, laptops or automobiles; miscommunication; lost/stolen items; general malfunction and wtf moments. I do not recommend starting a new job, buying a car, moving to a new place, or signing any contracts/documents. This is not a good time for travel, life-altering commitments, or investments.

All Mercury Retrograde cycles have positive things in common, too. One wonderful aspect of Mercury Retrograde is the way in which it helps us circle back and finish things that were started but then forgotten or ignored. Mercury brings communication to the fore and helps us strengthen our relationships. Mercury Retrograde also shines a spotlight on language and intellectual projects. This is a great time to catch up on academic or creative projects which were previously put on the back burner.

Taurus is a slow moving creature, to say the least, so here’s what you need to know about Mercury Retrograde in Taurus: don’t push it. Here’s the vibe: collapsing into a verdant garden to sleep for days. Please don’t work hard or do too much. Please rest, regenerate, inhale flowery aromas.

Communication in Taurus is candid and matter-of-fact. The cow is at once complacent and argumentative. Taurus is not interested in small talk. She is pragmatic, assertive, direct. Sometimes she is udderly intransigent or judgmental. Taurus can also be impatient, despite expecting others to be infinitely patient with her. (I am Taurus hence the shade :p)

Taurus will not build anything on unstable or uncertain ground. This is Taurean suicide, to sacrifice or even risk security. Taurus fears the unknown. She would rather sustain and maintain what is already known, or what already exists.

The sacred cow is so sensual and passionate, yet so averse to change and disruption. The bull lives in the basics. We should not feel guilty for indulging in the two things Mercury in Taurus loves best: forthright speech and living slowly. When in doubt, keep it simple. My advice is to root in one place and just be there, like a sleepy tortoise on a beach holiday.

I know that Mercury Retrograde always feels interminable, and in Taurus it is soooo slowwwwwwwwww. It’s true that this energy can be a little too still or static. Mercury in Taurus can manifest as stagnation of the thoughts and mind. But the message is clear: it’s ok to take your time. Practice patience. Inner peace is the sacred cow’s specialty. Feel it welling up from deep within the earth. May you sink into the wildflowers with a happy sigh.

If you were born with Mercury in Taurus, you’re in for an interesting Mercury Return. To see your Mercury sign and whether this planet was direct or retrograde at the time of your birth, click here.