Mercury Retrograde: Friend or Foe?
Mercury in the sign of Virgo
The Universe is constantly sending us messages which come in many forms. From signs and symbols to planetary alignments. One such alignment, that even those not of a spiritual mind recognize, is the Mercury Retrograde. It occurs three times a year. Once begins in November through Jan, once in April and another in August. The beauty is that while you can have a hard time with the retrograde in one month, a different month could be positive for you. Just for the record, if Mercury is your astrological ruling planet, it doesn’t have favorites. It may effect you stronger one way or the other, or the same as it effects everyone else.
Mercury retrograde and its effects
The Mercury Retrograde is infamous for generally causing havoc with our ability to communicate, to causing travel delays and technology malfunctions. It is so well known that saying “ it’s the Mercury Retrograde” is a common, lighthearted comment commonly used as things in our life aren’t going well.
From a spiritual perspective, it tends to create events in our lives with the intention to force us to look at unresolved issues. It is a time to confront our past and work through lingering emotions. It calls upon us to release old pattern that no longer serve us. For many, who need this extra push, it can be quite a difficult and emotional time. For others, they are filled with energy and extra intuition and insight. Should you rise to either gift, it can bring great growth and transformation.
common phrase used to excuse things going wrong - But mercury is in retrograde!
When the lunar eclipse and full moon fall within this time, the retrograde is amplified, creating a powerful portal for spiritual growth and manifestation. It is the optimal time to set intention and visualize our desired outcomes. For the energy of the full moon supports out manifestations and the eclipse helps to clear the obstacles in our path. It is a very powerful time which can be quite tasking and difficult, so practicing self care and mindfulness is essential.
How to maintain stability during the Mercury’s retrograde
During this time, here are some tips to practice for self care and embracing the blessings:
Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, drinking tea, water and finding activities that you enjoy and help you feel both joy and relaxation.
Mercury retrograde can cause feeling of being unsettles and ungrounded. Practice grounding techniques like walking in nature, yoga or meditation. Connect with the earth in any way that feels good to you.
Be mindful of your communication with others. Take an extra breath, pause before reacting, and attempt to listen more clearly to others. This is especially true in our closest relationships. Have an open heart and mind, yet evaluate if those around you have your best intentions. You may be pushed to make a decision to let some of them go.
If past issues do come up, make sure to reach out to a trusted friend, family member, coach, therapist…. Express that emotions that are coming up so you can clear them. If you feel called to, journal about your memories and emotions. Then shred or burn them to release.
Pay attention to your intuition and take notice of signs or synchronicities that may be happening to guide you. Trust your inner voice.
6. Be specific with your intentions and visualize yourself already having what you desire. Yet remember, it is up to you to take actions towards your intentions. The Universe will support that which you have shown commitment toward with your own action.
It can be very beneficial to continue these self care tips following the retrograde as well. After all, the retrograde is powerful and its effects don’t end immediately after the phase ends. Continue to take care. I hope that your alignment will lead you to further spiritual growth and transformation on your unique and incredible journey.
