Mercury retrograde conjunct star cluster M67 revives relationships and projects of the past; Mars, Juno and the Horsehead Nebula intensify social life

     Once again, Mercury, the planet of communication, begins a retrograde period, this time in the zodiacal sign of Leo and in ecliptic conjunction with star cluster M67. While the entire retrograde period will last until August 8th, 2012, the fact that Mercury is stationary in the same zodiacal degree of M67 is highly significant. This combination shows the important issues to work on the days and weeks ahead. M67 is a very old star cluster in the constellation of Cancer: its age is about 3 billion years (!) and therefore represents past issues, probably unresolved relationships or unfulfilled desires. No wonder it can revive old passions or relationships in which something was pending, no matter how long ago. In fact, the relationships that become important again can bring many positive consequences.

     Even those relations in which there was a disturbing contact in the past may benefit at this time of dialogue and / or confrontations that will eventually work things out. We will be able to close cycles and start another chapter of our lives. The same is true of creative projects that were suspended, neglected, or postponed for various reasons, as it was not their time. But now it's time to dust off and reassess old projects, uncovering the great possibilities available in the present and immediate future. Hence, we don´t need to search very far for opportunities: we may have good resources and relationships available close to us. Bring them to the present time and put them to work within the three weeks to come!


     On the other hand, Mars is in parallel to the Horsehead Nebula, conjunct the quintet of galaxies HCG 68 and at 45° of Juno. This combination affects relationships and social life. Mars is placed in a highly social mood by its conjunction with this "galaxy clique" located in the constellation Canes Venatici. This will make us invest much energy in activities that involve relationships, whether in friendship, love, family, work or community. The Horsehead Nebula, which tends to highlight things, also indicates events, shows, meetings, rallies, demosntrations, exhibitions full of people, where things happen in front of everybody... (If you want to hide something, by all means avoid socializing). There will be many events in which to participate, but it will be necessary to select those that interest us most to really enjoy sharing with others. Commitments without a real affinity or communion, can result in tensions and the feeling of having wasted time and personal efforts. But if we participate with like-minded people, with common goals and using the relationship for a definite purpose, then the reward is definitely a sense of communion, integration, acceptance.

     Saturn is at 135° from minor planet Ceres and the Hyades. This, on the other hand, refers to an administrative and material theme. This combination refers to productive work, for which it is necessary to display a good organization. The lack of structure and control can end up causing blockages and inadequate results. But an effort that is well planned and carried out with a bit of commitment and discipline, can lead to excellent results and satisfaction. Psychologically, this combination refers to control our desires and impulses, to release our attachments to things, to cut dependencies on food, substances or people. It is excellent for starting diets and implementing health and nutrition programs!