Demystifying Mercury Retrograde

Rosa Castro Psy.D

April 1

Today, April 1^st, represents April Fool's Day, but aside from that, it is also the first day of Mercury going retrograde. So, hold on to your hats; it may be a bumping ride for those who are unprepared. Don't worry; the duration of Mercury being retrograde is relatively short and can be a productive period when prepared. This month's Mercury retrograde is from April 1^st until April 24^th in Aries.

Many are familiar with the term "Mercury Retrograde" and have, to some degree, learned what to expect. Now, for those who haven't heard of Mercury Retrograde, I will attempt to clarify what is behind the notorious Mercury Retrograde. For starters, panic is unnecessary, especially if you are prepared and somewhat aware of what to expect. Consider this like a potential weather forecast of a pending storm, which means you wear your favorite protective gear.

What is a retrograde

All planets move at a specific speed; however, they tend to slow down their forward movement during a retrograde, creating the visual illusion that they are moving backgrounds. At some point throughout the year, planets will enter a retrograde state, which can be short or long-term. In the case of Mercury, it enters a retrograde state 3 to 4 times a year, typically lasting 24 days, changing every 88 days.

First, to understand Mercury Retrograde, you need to know a bit about the astrological role of Mercury. In astrology, the planet Mercury is named after the Roman God Mercury, referred to as Hermes in the Greek pantheon. The planet Mercury represents our abilities to talk and think, which in turn influences all forms of communication, networking, strategizing, all forms of travel, as well as flirting. Mercury is clever and sometimes a trickster. However, regardless of the Zodiac Sign, Mercury is transiting, and when it's in retrograde, the normal communication filters and ability to think can be a tad wonky and unfocused.

Mercury's role in the astrological signs will vary depending on the Zodiac sign and its astrological element. Beginning on April 1st, Mercury will be stationed in Aries, which is a fire sign of action, directness, and determination. Mercury in Aries represents fearless energy, passion, and readiness to action without hesitation, and it sometimes spontaneously says things without the correct social filters. Mercury in Aries can be fun, energetic, and charming, but it can also be unpredictable, forceful, and intimidating for sensitive folks.

Things to expect during a Retrograde:

Disagreements with others are typical, usually due to irritability and misunderstanding enhanced by the aspects of Mercury.
Items breaking, computer crashes, and technical flare-ups naturally occur when we are not focused.
Expect more than normal travel delays, heavy traffic, and delayed flights.
Mental fogginess, not feeling very alert, easily irritated, and not feeling sociable.
Brainstorming and problem-solving can take longer than usual.

To help you manage the retrograde, here are some practical tips to consider using:

It's a great time to study for tests or review old paperwork.
Keep a journal to help you vent and track down emotional changes.
Keep a to-do list to help you track things and stay focused.
It's a decent time to declutter and clear your personal space.
Avoid traveling, but if you must, take a good book or things to keep you entertained if you experience delays.
Avoid multitasking because this is a period where mistakes occur easily.
Reread emails and texts before replying.
A great time to edit and update written material.
Avoid buying new electrical equipment, especially phones or new computers.
Good time to scan your computer for viruses.
Pace yourself, and don't let anyone or anything rush you.
Get into the habit of meditating; it will improve focus and concentration.
Maintain a calendar of appointments and things to do to help you stay on top of things.
Delay asking for raises or promotions because most decisions made now will be revised and not always in your favor.
When interviewing for jobs, make sure you have an updated resume and a list of questions to help you avoid accepting offers that are beneficial.
Delay signing new contracts since the details may not be completely clear during the foggy stages of a retrograde.

I will advise you just to be generally prepared and not fearful since fear itself blocks our ability to think clearly and solve problems efficiently. The best method for handling any astrological aspect is to remain grounded and calm and tackle one project at a time.

Resources

Here are some additional resources for the curious.

Mercury https://www.britannica.com/topic/Mercury-Roman-god

Useful astrology link is loaded with tons of freebies. https://www.astro.com/horoscope

Recommended Books

The following are some books I think can be quite useful in learning a bit more about astrology. Enjoy

The Only Astrology Book You'll Ever Need Paperback by Joanna Martine Woolfolk