Halloween Blue Moon

When the Sun is at the 8th degree of the 8th sign of the zodiac (Scorpio) in what was traditionally the 8th month of the year, we celebrate Halloween. Given that the number eight symbolises death, this seems entirely appropriate as on this date people wear costumes to represent the afterlife and everything associated with the hidden realms of the underworld. 

This year, we will have a Full Moon on Halloween, making the atmosphere even spookier and more highly charged than usual. The Moon has a repeat cycle of 19 years. This is when the Moon is at the same degree of the same sign on the same date. However, because this is not exact, the Moon doesn't always hit the target date of 31st October, either being a few hours too early or a few hours too late. That's why we haven't officially had a Halloween Full Moon since 1974, as the ones in between were either on 30th October or 1st November.

But this is no ordinary Full Moon! It's also a 'Blue Moon'. The Moon doesn't actually turn blue, but the term is used to describe a rare second Full Moon falling in the same month. A Full Moon is always in the opposite sign from the Sun, so the Halloween Moon will take place in Taurus the sign of it's exaltation - and intriguingly, also the sign which symbolises witchcraft and pagan rituals. This means that both the planet and the sign enhance each other, with the Moon becoming more powerful. At the same time, it will be conjunct Uranus, so the feeling on Halloween will be highly strung with erratic, emotional reactions. This will be especially true for those born from 29th October - 2nd November and 27th April - 1st May as the Sun, Moon and Uranus will all be in hard aspect to your natal Sun. Get ready for an electrifying night!

Mercury Retrograde

Mercury goes into retrograde motion three times every year, and it began a new phase on 14th October which will continue until 4th November. It doesn't actually move backwards, of course, but gives the appearance of going in reverse from the perspective of our position in the Solar System. However, this optical illusion frequently brings problems in connection with the affairs ruled by Mercury.

This particular Mercury retro phase takes place in the sign of Scorpio. During this time it will form the second of three opposition aspects to transiting Uranus on 20th October. The final opposition from Mercury to Uranus in mid-November. In world news this could bring a shocking revelation.

Mercury retrograde does seem to affect us all in one way or another. This is because, of all the planets, Mercury is the one which is connected to so many of our everyday routines. Phones, computers, transport, talking, reading, writing, etc. It's the planet of communication and commerce. So, when Mercury changes direction things go haywire! Phones malfunction, computers crash, vehicles break down. Exchanging information becomes dodgy too - letters get lost in the mail, or maybe you send the wrong email or text message to the wrong person. Say something, and it's more likely than usual that other people will misinterpret your words, or the meaning behind them. It's equally likely that you will take other people the wrong way too. Be careful what you say, read and write under this Mercury influence. 

So, how can we 'survive' this period without going mad? After all, in the 21st century, when we rely on electronic gadgets more than ever before, a broken phone or a wonky computer tends to spell disaster for most people. Well, to ease the pressure, it's important to realise that Mercury Retrograde can actually be a good influence. It's all about reviewing your situation. 

Imagine that you're driving along a road. This is symbolic of Mercury moving forwards. Now imagine slowing down, stopping, then doing a u-turn and driving back along the same road in the opposite direction. This is the real effect of Mercury retrograde. It's not about going backwards - it's about retracing your journey and taking another look at where you've been. Then, you can reassess your progress and decide whether or not you're actually on the right road.  

In essence, Mercury - or any retrograde planet - is not about beginning anything. It's important not to start anything new under this influence, and particularly with Mercury, don't sign any important contracts or documents. Mercury retrograde is not about starting anew, it's about re-doing - or at least re-thinking - what has already begun. It gives us the opportunity to stop and consider where we're going and what we're trying to achieve. A second chance to do the right thing. And that's why it can be a very positive influence.

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