March 5th marked the beginning of Mercury Retrograde. It is the time when even those who are relatively unfamiliar with astrology lose their collective minds about said phenomenon on the Internet.
What exactly is Mercury Retrograde? It is when Mercury appears to reverse direction. The planet was due to move into the next sign, Aries, but instead it goes back to complete unfinished business in Pisces. Until then, we will be waiting with bated breath for Mercury to go direct once more on March 28th.
Mercury is the ruler of communication, thinking, news and technology. During its retrograde motion you can expect miscommunication, malfunctioning technology, machine breakdowns and the need for repairs.
Communication in general has a tendency to slow waaaay down or come to a standstill. This is extremely frustrating for someone with three personal planets in eager Aries, like me.
Without further ado, here is some valuable advice on how to navigate Mercury retrograde.
Tips for Navigating Mercury Retrograde
1. Patience is your friend this month. That news you were waiting on? It may be delayed, or it might never come. That social engagement you had planned? It could be rescheduled, or even fall through. Luckily, this often makes way for better things in the future. Cultivate an adaptable attitude and be ready for any surprises.
2. Avoid starting anything new or signing contracts during this time. For example, schedule that job interview, product launch, new website, experimental haircut, surgery or online class until after the retrograde period whenever possible. Oftentimes, circumstances are not all that they seem or conditions change unexpectedly.
3. Triple check any texts, emails, blog posts, newsletters, etc. before sending them. Proofread them, make sure you didn’t accidentally hit “reply all,” check that your speech is clear and succinct. Errors and misconstrued words are much more prevalent during Mercury Retrograde.
4. Avoid making any major purchases, especially those involving machines or real estate. Wait to purchase that new car or computer in April instead. Unforeseen issues may arise, for example, you find out later that your new car’s airbags have been recalled.
5. Mercury teaches us to go back over our existing projects/work and modify them so they can become even better. While it may seem inconvenient or tedious at first, it is a gift that encourages us to reach our full potential. If you are a writer finalizing a draft for your novel, see if you can make any positive adjustments; refine that dialogue, inject emotionality, cut to the bone.
6. Mercury also returns to ensure we have learned our lessons. You may have given up that shopping habit, convinced you have cut ties with your materialistic ways, only to find the “perfect” floral dress for spring. Yes, this is a test. Exercise your willpower and show the Universe that you have changed your ways.
Computers may have a mind of their own, plans may change, missing items may be discovered, old friends and flames may return to our lives. At times, Mercury Retrograde might feel like a rollercoaster. Remember to stay calm and accept what life brings. Use this as an opportunity to enjoy the slower pace, do some inner work and explore your boundless potential.
