Mercury Retrograde Can Be Tricky

Published in the New York Post:

First off: let’s be upfront. Planets do not actually move backward in space. But from our vantage point on Earth, they certainly look like they do!

That is because of the speed of our Earth’s rotation and the distance of the planet from us. While the Earth is not the center of our solar system, since we were born here, this is our center of perspective when we look up into the night’s sky. It may seem silly to think that an optical illusion can actually cause major effects for us down below — but as ancient cultures studied for thousands of years, what happens in the sky is mirrored within our lives.

Mercury is the planet of communication, the mind, intelligence, connection, media, technology and commerce. It is the fastest moving celestial body in our sky, second only to the moon. Mercury is known as a personal planet, which means that it affects us significantly within our day-to-day lives. Since everything that Mercury rules is so integral to our daily routines, we notice the effects of any of his retrogrades especially potently!

What is good about Mercury retrograde?

Mercury retrograde phases are not here to destroy you or create problems. Instead, they are here to help you slow down and review, reassess and reorganize. That is why people, situations and projects from the past pop back up for us to look over once again. The best part about this is that we may realize we want to fine-tune our plans or reunite with that person or situation. If not, it can also clarify this for us so we let it go and learn the lessons once and for all.

What is difficult about Mercury retrograde?

Mercury retrograde is never a good time to make agreements, start relationships, become married or sign contracts. If you do, what you initiate will eventually fall apart because it is formed on rocky ground. It is also not a good time to make major purchases, start new jobs or jump upon sudden decisions. Also, anything with moving parts may fall apart, whether it’s a car, computer or another piece of technology. Delays and obstacles are likely to manifest, but may actually free up your schedule a bit because of it. It’s best to lie low, relax and watch what happens rather than stressing yourself out. This, too, shall pass.

• May 10, 2022 – June 2, 2022. It starts in Gemini and ends in Taurus.

• September 9, 2022 – October 2, 2022. It launches in Libra but concludes in Virgo.

• December 29, 2022 – January 18, 2023 in Capricorn.