Everything You Need to Know about the Ruling Planet Mercury

Learning about the Ruling Planet Mercury

The first planet in our solar system is named after the Roman god Mercury. He is the equivalent of Hermes in Greek mythology.

Mercury was the messenger of the gods. He spoke on behalf of Jupiter. He is associated with a long list of tasks and chores. He often was an amicable guide.

In astrology, the planet Mercury influences communication, travel, and planning. When Mercury is in retrograde, people’s lives tend to get bent out of shape. The mischievous planet likes to show our flaws.

Mercury in retrograde is meant for a time of reflection and staying at home. You’re not supposed to make big changes to your life during a Mercury retrograde, which occurs about 3–4 times a year.

Gemini and Virgo

Mercury rules over the zodiac signs Gemini and Virgo. Both of these signs are considered intelligent. They have great potential to bring about change.

• Gemini is the third sign of the zodiac. The air sign is mutable and rules the end of spring. Gemini is about dualism. The sign is represented by twins. Most Geminis seek out and find a partner; they typically don’t like to be alone. Geminis are dynamic, witty, talkative, full of tangled thoughts, they’re jacks of all trades, and they’re fairly amicable. Gemini rules the arms and shoulders. (Gemini has an active inner child unlike any other.)
• Virgo is the sixth sign of the zodiac. The earth sign is mutable; it rules the end of summer. Virgo is represented by the maiden. Many of the myths around Virgo have to do with the story of Persephone and the harvest. Virgos are often solitary creatures; they’re often the last people to couple up with a partner. . . if at all. The Virgo is hard-working, a perfectionist, down-to-earth, cerebral, and logical. Virgos like to keep their spaces clean and unoccupied. Virgo rules the chest.

Mercury’s influence gives mortals a piece of what it’s like to be a god. Humans have the most complex minds of any known species. They have the highest capacity for language and creative expression. They’re the clear apex predators with superpower level imagination, intelligence, and…