New Moon in Virgo 2022 Update
![](https://substackcdn.com/image/fetch/w_1456,c_limit,f_auto,q_auto:good,fl_progressive:steep/https%3A%2F%2Fbucketeer-e05bbc84-baa3-437e-9518-adb32be77984.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2F0889f28c-50e1-4470-addd-c3e066573f2e_2016x1512.jpeg)
*This was originally published in my Kosmic Mind newsletter for the New Moon August 27. These New and Full Moon updates will be syndicated bi-weekly on my Substack.
Between now and the Full Moon on Sept. 10, Mercury will begin to station retrograde (exact station occurs Sept. 9). Often, Mercury retrograde correlates with a slowing/delaying of actions, yet also there can be an inundation of information and data flow leading to revisions of opinion, perception, or belief.
As is often the case, anticipate a change in the flow of activity in the house(s) Mercury retrogrades through. Sometimes that will increase or decrease movement, but there is always an underlying process of revision and adjustment. Take your time making critical or costly decisions, read the fine print carefully, and reiterate your message as much as needed.
Mars has recently moved into Gemini where it will stay until the end of March 2023. This extended Mars in Gemini transit results from its retrograde cycle starting at the end of Oct./beginning of Nov and lasting until mid-January 2023. The most challenging feature of this Mars retrograde will be its square with Neptune, lasting nearly two months. Mars will again square Neptune on its way out of Gemini in March.
Oct. through Dec. will be a difficult time for willfully directing specific actions and for the initiation/launching of various endeavors. Some will feel this more than others (mutable sign placements in Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces, especially). Mars in Gemini can also relate to a process of strengthening verbal boundaries and critical thinking skills in the face of uncertain or outright deceptive information.
Always with Mars retrograde, there are opportunities to get stronger, build momentum, and come out with renewed confidence. Like Saturn, Mars was considered a malefic planet by classical astrologers, meaning it brought about difficult circumstances or problems. When Mars is retrograde, it opposes the Sun and appears brightest in the night sky. The warrior/trailblazer archetype speaks louder at this time. Of course, Mars is more than a confrontation with certain problems. It represents the challenges we must face to toughen up and earn our right to take up space in the world.
This New Moon's tarot card is the Nine of Wands. I had to laugh when I pulled it since this is a card that speaks directly to issues of power and strength. Beyond Mars' upcoming retrograde cycle, Mars makes a striking square to this New Moon, and Martian symbolism is heavily imbued in this card. The Nine of Wands can represent the second wind received at the final battle, the burst of momentum and energy that comes after drawing from a deep reservoir of power within oneself.
It refers to an ongoing fight or challenge and pushing through the final standoff. While there may be obstacles, challenges, and uncertain moments ahead, the Nine of Wands promises that through persistence and endurance, victory is within reach. I found this card quite relevant to this New Moon in Virgo square Mars. It also seems to foreshadow Mars' upcoming retrograde. Though with Neptune's square, that battle will be more complex. I will keep you all updated as insights come regarding this.
Check out the New Moon in Virgo article here.