One of the most notorious (and feared) astrological phenomena is Mercury retrograde. As of August 23this planet will seem to stop in the sky, initiating a period of uncertainty and reflection.
Despite his notorious reputation, Retrograde Mercury is not to be feared. Instead, you can accept this moment as an opportunity for review, renewal, and growth.
What does Mercury retrograde mean?
Before we delve into the do’s and don’ts, it’s crucial to understand what Mercury retrograde entails. Contrary to its name, Mercury does not go backwards in its orbit. Instead, it appears to do so from our point of view on Earth due to an optical illusion.
Astrology focuses on the Earth perspective, and from here Mercury retrograde can wreak havoc on communication, and as it will in the practical sign of Virgo, it will also affect planning and linear thinking.
It should be noted that this phenomenon occurs approximately three to four times a year, each lasting about three weeks.
Mercury rules communication, cognitive function, travel, technical connections, and social exchanges. During its retrograde, this energy turns inward, encouraging introspection and reflection. By resurfacing unresolved issues and disrupting daily routines, Mercury Retrograde offers an opportunity to review and reassess.
What to do during Mercury retrograde
Embrace the review and renewal
Mercury retrograde is an ideal time for anything that begins with “re,” astrologers tell StyleCaster.com. In this way, it is a time to go back to unresolved issues, redo, reboot, reconnect, and update. This period encourages reflection and offers the opportunity to correct the mistakes of the past.
experiment and explore
Accept the temporary nature of circumstances during this retrograde. Try new things and explore unknown territories. Retrace your steps and discover hidden gems that might have been overlooked before.
Plan and communicate carefully
Given Mercury’s rule of communication, think before you speak. Plan your conversations and messages carefully. Double check emails and texts for clarity and address sensitive topics with sincerity and sensitivity.
tie up loose ends
Retrograde Mercury often brings us together with people from our past. Take this opportunity to seek closure and answers to lingering questions. Revisit unfinished chapters and bring them to a satisfying conclusion.
What not to do during Mercury retrograde
Avoid permanent decisions
Resist the temptation to make permanent decisions for temporary situations. Major commitments like signing contracts, moving, building long-term relationships, making substantial financial investments, or starting significant projects should be postponed until after the retrograde.
Refrain from snap judgments
Retrograde Mercury can cloud perceptions making things seem less clear than they are. Avoid making firm judgments about your current reality. Stay open to new facts and remain adaptable until the retrograde concludes.
Recognize the pre and post retrograde shadow
Mercury’s influence extends beyond the retrograde period. The pre-shadow phase, leading up to the retrograde, highlights emerging themes. Likewise, the post-shadow phase, after the retrograde, can still bring retrograde-related challenges. Keep these transition periods in mind.
Keep reading:
• Mercury will turn retrograde in Virgo: what it means and how to prepare
• 3 rituals to withstand the stress of Mercury retrograde in Virgo
• An unfortunate period ends for 3 zodiac signs: a new beginning awaits them