If you are at all into astrology, or know people who are, then you’ll likely have seen people “freak out” or lament “mercury being in retrograde.” They aren’t reacting like that out of nowhere, for no reason! Mercury in retrograde is a major event in astrology and it affects each and every one of the major signs in a big way. People are even relating Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook being out of service to mercury in retrograde.
So what exactly happens when mercury is in retrograde? For one, the planet mercury rules communication and technology in a way that is major. Recently, as of writing, mercury went into retrograde on the 27th of September this year and it will go on until October 18th. In total, Mercury retrograde happens three times every year, typically in pair-months, during January-February, June-July and September-October. During this astrological event, mercury looks like it moves backwards, going from west to east (this is actually an optical illusion.) The mercury retrograde we are experiencing now is the last one this year!
When mercury is in retrograde, you can expect big changes in terms of the things mercury rules: communication, intellect, and technology. During this time, things may seem out of control and a tad wonky. People may feel they lack a hold on things. This is why it is important to move about with more clarity and alertness during these pair-months, so you can navigate the Mercury retrograde with more confidence and control.
After all, the reason people seem to be both panicked and oddly resigned during mercury in retrograde is that it is thought to be a time of great confusion when events seem to go haywire. It is an event that brings about a lot of miscommunication and even lapses in judgment and perception. The “brain fog” is thick during this time. With everyone feeling a little lost for words, it may feel like we’re all back to building the tower of Babel. Luckily for them, those born in the pair-months of mercury retrogrades seem to handle it better than those who weren’t. In fact, they may navigate life better during these times!
But not all is so uncertain during mercury retrograde! This is usually a great time to look inwards, to channel your mental energy towards yourself. It’s an excellent chance to re-assess yourself and where you are at and look deeper into what you have been focusing on during the past few months before mercury retrograde! It is also a great time to rethink your relationships and maybe consider ‘culling’ the ones that are toxic or don’t bring joy. But remember to act on these decisions AFTER the mercury retrograde has ended, for even more clarity of thought. After all, mercury retrograde might not be a good time for big decisions.
The key to surviving mercury in retrograde is of course to simply calm down and give yourself space to think carefully. Relax. Consider purchasing mercury retrograde survival candles, using clear quartz stones or special mercury retrograde crystal sets, calming teas and massagers, and reinforcing the protection on all of your devices.