Mercury Retrograde: Everything You Need To Know
For the first time in 2022, Mercury will go retrograde from Jan. 14 through Feb. 3. During this period of retrograde motion, when communication is likely to be difficult and plans subject to change, you may hear that Mercury is to blame for mishaps.
But the question remains: what is this elusive Mercury retrograde, why does it cause so much worry and confusion, and how can we mitigate its inevitable pitfalls?
So! What exactly is Mercury Retrograde?
Mercury is a planet. Its movements affect how we communicate, travel, and use technology. Sometimes it moves slowly in the sky; other times it seems to move backwards. When it’s going slow, this means that communication, travel, and technology work slower. When it goes backword, they stop working.
Mercury retrograde can be a disruptive time period, and the trick is to stay organized and carry a backup plan. It's best to be prepared for potential computer crashes, lost packages, and technology malfunctions two weeks before Mercury retrograde begins; the same goes for two weeks after it ends.
During a Mercury Retrograde cycle, we are advised to be extremely careful with our language and electronic devices. We must read everything thoroughly, think twice before signing contracts, and be aware of potential delays in travel.
And, of course, we can always count on certain people from the past to reemerge during Mercury retrograde—including former lovers. In many cases, it's best to politely decline unexpected coffee invitations and "innocent" dinner suggestions.
What can I do to survive this retrograde?
TO GET THINGS DONE, YOU HAVE TO SLOW DOWN
We seem to be living in a go-go society. Taking a moment of gratitude each day will slow us down and give us a chance to enjoy life.
GIVE IN TO SPRING CLEANING
There’s no time like the present to get organized. Mercury is in charge of Virgo, the sign for organization, so it makes sense that spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to get things in order.
FINISH WHAT YOU’VE STARTED
This period is not good for starting new projects, but rather for completing work that's already begun. Projects you began long ago, but set aside—now is the time to finish them up.
AVOID BIG DECISIONS
Some people believe that it's not a good time to sign contracts or buy expensive electronics during Mercury retrograde because these items are more likely to break. It has been said that if you break up with your sweetheart during this period, you will find yourself back together again. During Mercury retrograde, things that happen tend to change; they may not last.
READ YOUR EMAILS AND TEXT MESSAGES CAREFULLY
What is being said can be misconstrued. If you notice communications getting a little weird via text or email, it might be better to call and discuss things rather than have misunderstandings.
BE GENTLE WITH YOURSELF AND OTHERS
Be gentle, up your self-care and know that everyone around you is in the pressure cooker, too, so be gentle with them also. We’re being asked to grow and forced out of our comfort zones so breathe, surrender and make graceful steps forward.
While many of us fear the possibility of Mercury retrograde, there are ways to ensure that this time period is easier to navigate. By thinking about potential problems in advance and taking steps to minimize the impact Mercury retrograde has on our lives, we can make this time period less stressful and more peaceful. So yes, you will still have Internet problems and technology issues when Mercury is Retrograde. But you'll be armed with backup options and contingency plans to help keep your life running smoothly.
