“Cazimi” is an astrological term that means a planet is in the heart of the Sun — in the tightest possible conjunction condition of less than a degree or even just 16 (astrological) minutes. Planets residing there are empowered by Sol, rather than “combust” and damaged by his overpowering rays. Their topics become significantly pronounced and purified, giving potent and undeniably specific results.

Mercury is the only planet who exalts in his own sign — one which he also rules, in Virgo. Here, the messenger becomes articulate, precise, and mentally dexterous, able to execute many calculations with quicksilver speed. Since Virgo is an earth sign, these concerns are typically of practical import and material significance. They aid in the forms of productivity which rely on mental rigor and analytical processing.

The election for this series, chosen in consultation with astrologer Austin Coppock, was September 20th, 2018, starting during the hour of Mercury and culminating with final suffumigations, consecrations, and prayers as the cazimi conjoined the Midheaven. Mercury was just 13 astrological minutes from Sol’s core, meaning this election meets even the strictest standards for the cazimi condition, which is excellent indeed — since Mercury in Virgo would have it no other way!

The resulting magically infused materials provide incredible mental support and activation, bestowing a cerebro-energetic boost which can be applied to making efficient work of to-do lists, communications, studying, editing, doing research, writing, and activities that benefit from quick mental parsing. Beta testers have likened the effects to those of commonly used study drugs and nootropic enhancers, both for better and for worse.

Side effects can include a form of “tunnel vision” that people with experience using mental stimulants will understand. Given the attention to detail Mercury in Virgo pays, one can lose the forest for the trees or find themselves pursuing interesting rabbit holes, and may benefit from periodically re-orienting themselves to their desired task.

This can be curtailed by layering other influences under or over the Mercury cazimi series, to draw its charge in a chosen direction. Such is in perfect accord with Mercury’s role as a hyper flexible go-between, for Hermes has the power to productively exchange with any other planetary, stellar, or deific force. An example of this would be applying the Exalted Mars spray alongside Mercury Cazimi oil, to instigate a drive toward productivity and add a dash of physical activation to balance the mental. Another would be pairing it with Regulus for something like a podcast appearance, where one wants to be precise and accurate in their assertions, but not at the expense of charisma or warmth.

The primary benefits of the Mercury Cazimi series are derived from personal application for mental performance enhancement, but they can also be used in a ritual capacity and to anoint Mercurial objects and talismans. As with all Sphere + Sundry orders, every item includes basic instructions for use and a prayer.

For remediating Mercury during retrograde periods, see this article.