Even if you don’t follow astrology, you’ve probably heard of one of the most infamous planetary cycles- Mercury Retrograde! It occurs 3-4 times a year when the planet Mercury (the “messenger” planet that rules communication) goes retrograde.
During these times it’s no coincidence that our plans and communication go awry. Technology breaks down, miscommunication occurs and travel plans become unpredictable.
But it’s not all doom! There are actually positive aspects to any retrograde. Because of this I have prepared a Mercury Retrograde “Survival Guide” to help you take advantage of the opportunities that this time brings- whenever it comes around.
Mercury Retrograde Survival Guide
STEP 1: Know the lay of the land (or in this case- the cosmos)
All the planets are in constant motion and each of their movements has a unique way of affecting us here on earth. The planet Mercury rules communication, clear thinking, truth and travel, so when it goes retrograde (moves backwards) all those things can go a little haywire.
Although Mercury isn’t really moving backwards, it creates the illusion that it is. Much like two cars passing each other on the freeway, Mercury can appear to be moving slower or backwards 3-4 times a year.
Check out this link for a calendar with upcoming Mercury retrograde dates.
NOTE: In addition to the approximate 3 weeks that Mercury is retrograde it has what’s called a “shadow period” that occurs the two weeks before and the two weeks after. My spiritual advisor Kasey used to say that this “shadow period” around the retrograde often has greater affects than the retrograde itself. Take note of these times and start your preparation early.
STEP 2: Assess the potential
The affects Mercury retrograde has on you personally can depend on where the upcoming cycle falls in your natal chart. The type of influence also depends on which of the 12 zodiac signs the planet is in when Mercury goes retrograde.
Check out Café Astrology’s guide for more info on how it can influence your personal astrology.
STEP 3: Make a Preparedness plan
It is important to keep in mind that there is no reason to suspend projects during a Mercury Retrograde cycle. It’s just not an ideal time to start new things, sign contracts, or make large purchases because they will often have flaws or issues that weren’t on the surface. I’ve known people to buy industrial espresso machines and copy machines during a Mercury retrograde and their purchases weren’t quite in working order like they thought.
When it comes to anything big- if at all possible, wait until Mercury is direct again.
Of course, that can be difficult because life has to go on and we may need to sign contracts or travel. That’s ok! Just be extra thorough about the plans you are making. Review, check and double check everything as miscommunication and errors can arise more easily.
Allow time for mishaps, delays and confusion. For example, during one transit I made plans to get a tarot reading. I made my appointment online and put in on my calendar. The day before my scheduled reading I got a call from the reader wondering where I was. I had marked the wrong date online and it clearly stated on her website that she did not issue refunds for missed appointments. I was mortified! Thankfully I explained my predicament, she chalked up to Mercury retrograde and I received my reading after all.
NOTE: Since Mercury can uncover errors or truths, waiting until after the Mercury retrograde to start anything new or make big plans, could be a blessing in disguise.
STEP 4: Create the best case SCENA-RE-O (I know, I know… it’s actually spelled scenario)
So what is the best way to use this potentially trying energy to your advantage? Do anything that begins with “RE”!
All retrogrades provide us with a chance to slow down and reexamine various areas of our life which may need a little more work, so that we can move forward in our highest and best good.
Because of this, Mercury has a way of bringing old patterns and past relationships back into our lives. Don’t be surprised if you hear from old flames, friends and acquaintances. Perhaps this is a time to reevaluate the past, reincorporate it into your life or release it.
No matter what take this time to reflect and recharge!
Here’s a list of more “RE” ways to use a Mercury Retrograde to your advantage…
RECONNECT– This is an excellent time to get a healing or spiritual guidance. This can help you let go of past patterns and move through any difficult aspects.
REVISE– Take time to edit any projects- especially those in writing. Change up your resume, finish that novel you’ve been writing etc… Overall tie up loose ends and finish the things you started a while ago.
RELAX– During this cycle people’s emotions can be heightened and communication can be clouded. Don’t take things too personally. Take this time to look within.
REVIEW– Double-check any information you’re given to make sure it is clear and correct especially prior to any travel plans.
REFLECT– Go over anything from the past. Look at old pictures and reminisce. Evaluate what has worked and what hasn’t. What can you learn from these situations?
refresh, revive, reboot, reconcile, recover, recycle, research, refinish, refocus, reformulate, rejuvenate, recalibrate, reset… you get the drift!
One more thing that can help- keep in mind that during this cycle computers and electronics may go on the fritz… Back up all your data! Ok not a “RE” but also very important!
Overall, I encourage you to remain calm and roll with the punches. All of these challenging astrological cycles are meant to bring us back to our soul’s purpose and like anything in life, it too shall pass and you will come out the other side better than before.
This information should not be used as a substitute for seeking the guidance of a health care provider.