The movements of Mercury and Mars.

Get ready to get up and go! With Mercury and Mars on the move this week, we'll be on the move as well. On the 31st, Mercury, the Planet of Communication, passes into Virgo. Then on the 2nd, Mars, the Planet of Passion, makes its way into Sagittarius. Efficiency, effectiveness and action will color this week and weeks to come, with Mercury and Mars on the move. The closest planet to the Sun, Mercury rules communication, intellect and mental quickness. The messenger of the gods in ancient times, Mercury has an eighty-eight day cycle, or year, and travels backward (retrogrades) approximately three times a year. This week the Planet of Communication happily makes its journey into Virgo. Mercury rules both Gemini and Virgo and favors these signs over the others. When in Gemini, Mercury creates a mercurial influence. Lots of activities will take place, but in a random, purposeless, gossipy manner. On the other hand, Mercury in Virgo exudes a more orderly and analytical influence. Thinking logically, we'll be more inclined to do things in an ordered and detailed fashion. We'll gather and exchange information and knowledge for a reason, as opposed to those gossipy, more scattered motivations. We'll be efficient, effective and informed. This will be one of the peak times for communication this year. Use it to your advantage! Also this week, Mars moves into Sagittarius. The Planet of Passion speaks to action, assertion and adventure. Sagittarius is the sign on the go, enjoying travel and exploration. With these two energies working in your favor, be prepared for an active time. For the next six weeks, we'll be able to get a lot of tasks accomplished. Plans will be put into action. Travel could figure into this period for you. Unlike Mercury in Virgo, Mars in Sagittarius is more philosophical and conceptual -- not detailed. Together, the movements of Mercury and Mars mark a time when we can be very productive. Although the planets of communication and passion carry very different energies, this should prove to be a time of action and effectiveness. The extent of the influence on you depends on your individual chart. Find out how these energies fall specifically in your chart by visiting our ChartShop. On the message board this week, tell us where your get-up-and-go will take you. If you could travel anywhere, where would you go? Tokyo? Rome? New York? It certainly gets my mind wandering over the globe. Wherever your travels take you, bon voyage. I look forward to meeting you back here next week.