Everything You Need To Know About Mercury In Retrograde

Even if you aren’t into astrology, you may have heard about the term, “Mercury in retrograde”, and the trouble it seems to bring. The reason why it’s so widespread is that it seems to affect almost everyone, believers and non-believers alike. 

This is why it’s important to take time to learn more about it,  as well as the things you should try to avoid during this phase.

Mercury Moving Backwards?

Contrary to popular belief, Mercury isn’t moving backward, it only appears to be. This can be blamed on the ancient astrologers who, without the necessary tools, weren’t able to make the proper distinction. 

In reality, because Mercury is the closest planet to the Sun, its orbit is much shorter than Earth’s, causing it to speed past Earth at about three to four times a year. It creates an optical illusion that makes the planet appear to be moving backward from the viewpoint of Earth.

Similarly, when you’re on a train that passes another slower train, it appears as if the other train is going backward. It’s simply going forward at a slower speed. The momentum at which Mercury passes the Earth causes turbulence and disruption, which is the retrograde we experience in our lives.

Mercury Rules These Areas Of Your Life

The Roman god, Mercury, is said to rule over many aspects of our lives. The main ones are communication, negotiating, researching, and editing (such as formal agreements and contracts too).
Additionally, technology, transportation, and travel are all also affected by this phenomenon.

You may be wondering why this is so. It’s because when a planet is retrograding, it’s in its sleeping phase. This means that while Mercury is taking a nap, all of these aspects get scrambled and mixed up since there is no active planet governing over them.

What To Do When Mercury Is In Retrograde

The best advice for when Mercury is retrograding is to double-check everything and then check again. If you’re making travel plans, ensure all your details are in order, update your GPS, bring a couple of maps along, and just think of anything that can go wrong. Make sure you have a backup plan.

The same goes for technology. Backup all of your files and drives and be sure to do any minor repairs before the retrograde occurs.

Moreover, this time could be a good opportunity to plan a getaway. Though business travels should be avoided, a holiday could help you use this time to recharge and reflect.

Additionally, focusing this time on reorganizing your closet, finishing old projects, and reaching out to people you haven’t seen for a while, can be beneficial during these tumultuous weeks.

What Not To Do When Mercury Is In Retrograde

When Mercury is retrograding,  it isn’t a good time to venture into risky business deals or sign any contracts. Avoid anything that involves making an important decision. The same goes for starting new projects or making new agreements as they could potentially not end up working in your favor. If it’s necessary to sign a deal or make a decision, be sure to double-check the facts and read the fine print a few times.

Relationships can also take a toll. So, before making any drastic decisions or launching straight into conflict, try analyzing your emotions and talking things out with the other person.

It’s also important that you avoid having any cosmetic surgery. You could end up regretting it later since your judgment is affected and your surgeon is also going to be affected by retrograde.

Mercury In Retrograde Exceptions

It’s good to know that there are some exceptions to the rule during this time. The main one is that if you have any previous history with a certain person or situation, it’s okay to venture into it.

For example, if your old boss from a previous company asks you to join him in his current workplace, it’s perfectly fine to take the deal. The same goes for that idea that you’ve placed on the back burner for years or a certain car you bid on before it came back on to the market.

The main point is that you need to proceed carefully and slowly with any new venture. Don’t be afraid to take some more time to reflect on it.

Conclusion

With all this in mind, know that the Mercury in retrograde isn’t all that bad. While there are things you should try to avoid like unnecessary business deals, buying property, and making important decisions, it’s also a wonderful opportunity for reorganization and self-expression.

You can use this time to figure out your passions and dreams and take the time to reconnect with loved ones.