The Stars This Week: January 23-29, 2012

Delays!

Every two years, Mars retrogrades for 80 days. This time, Mars turns retrograde in hard-working Virgo on January 23, when some of your plans and projects may stall, while others may be at risk of being dropped entirely. Mercury's entrance into Aquarius on January 27 gives you plenty of new ideas, while that same planet's sextile to Uranus and square to Jupiter on January 28 will stimulate plenty of interesting conversations.

January 23: Mars turns retrograde
Mars entered Virgo on November 10, when you set a new course and embarked on a self-improvement program. Because Virgo is a health-focused sign, you may have started a new eating regimen or exercise program. Hopefully in the time since, this transit has given you loads of energy to help you achieve your goals! Virgo is also the sign that rules your work, as well as your daily routines. If you've been hoping to become more organized and make your life less complicated, you can make strides toward this once Mars turns retrograde in this sign. You're now getting a second chance to figure out and strategize any issues and plans you've been working on since November. Since retrogrades don't support forward movement, you may find that projects that were on the fast track could now become stalled or delayed. Don't bang your head against a door that won't open, however, because there's a reason that energy is being held back right now. Instead, get all your projects ready to go for when Mars turns direct! If you know your chart, examine the house Mars is traveling through for more information. And finally, pace yourself -- this retrograde period will last until April 14.

January 27: Mercury enters Aquarius
As Mars begins its review, planet of communication Mercury exits pragmatic Capricorn and enters inventive and free-spirited Aquarius. This transit will give you truly original ideas and a fresh perspective. Now is the time to keep an open mind and let go of old ways of thinking and communicating. If you know where Mercury is traveling in your own chart, use that information to stimulate your mind and develop new avenues of communication.

January 28: Mercury sextiles Uranus and squares Jupiter
A surprise phone call from a friend, or perhaps even a chance meeting with an old flame, is more than possible now! The air is charged with electricity, and people are ready to reach out and make new connections while also reviving old contacts. New ideas, conversations, agreements and plans provide exciting opportunities -- just make sure you don't overcommit or say something you wish you hadn't!