Mercury in Retrograde

Before we get into what happens when Mercury goes into retrograde, let's discuss what the term 'retrograde' actually means.

The Retrograde(s):

The planets in our solar system all move in the same direction, during their journey around the Sun. They never change course, pause, etc during their movements. However, sometimes they can appear to do just that. So when we use the term 'retrograde' it refers to the planets appearing to move in reverse from their usual patterns of motion around the Sun.

Earth's rotation makes it appear as if the objects in our skies move from an Eastern to Western pattern, even though the objects in our skies are fixed, from our point of view. The planets and stars move around the sun at varying speeds. Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, Saturn, and Neptune are larger planets and take longer to orbit the Sun. For this reason, Earth often laps these planets in its rotation around the Sun. When Earth laps these planets, they appear to travel backwards for short periods of time.

When we look at the inner planets, however, Venus and Mercury appear to go into retrograde when they lap us. Because it only takes 88 days for Mercury to orbit the Sun, it goes into retrograde 3-4 times a year, for around 3 weeks at a time.

Mercury in Retrograde:

In Astrology, Mercury is the planet associated with communication, electronics, clear thought, and information. When Mercury goes intro retrograde, it's believed to cause havoc where these things are concerned. When Mercury travels along its normal path, it can positively impact its areas of association, however, while in retrograde those corresponding areas can be impacted in the negative.Cars break down, electronics go on the fritz, tensions run high, and arguments seem to constantly loom on the horizon. However, we don't need to fret too much. There are some things we can do to try and cope with the retrograde.

Tips, Tricks, & Suggestions for Surviving the Retrograde:

1. Try to relax and stay calm during this time. Don't let emotions or your temper get the better of you.
2. Slow down and take time to pay closer attention to detail to prevent mishaps.
3. Now is a good time to take care of anything that needs repaired, reevaluated, or revised.
4. Now is a good time to heal any past mistakes, retrace our steps, and take a look at past decisions.
5. Observe things, review them, and release any negativity. Try to keep it positive.

References & Resources:

https://www.horoscope.com/mercury-retrograde

https://www.farmersalmanac.com/mercury-retrograde-what-does-that-mean-17885

https://www.astrologyzone.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-mercury-retrograde/

http://mentalfloss.com/article/503425/what-mercury-retrograde-and-why-do-we-blame-things-it

https://www.mnn.com/lifestyle/arts-culture/stories/what-does-mercury-retrograde-mean