What happens when Mercury is in retrograde and how does it affect us? Many astrology advocates believe that the retrograde motion triggers a cycle of misfortune – but what does it really mean?
Mercury retrograde is an optical illusion which means it looks as if the planet is moving backwards from our view here on earth. Astrologers believe that during this perceived backwards motion, technology and communication could get disrupted, putting a damper on anyone’s summer mood.
Take a look at everything you need to know about Mercury being in retrograde, including how you can harness its energy and what it means for you…
How can Mercury retrograde affect you?
Mercury is known by astrologers as the planet to rule expression and communication. It is thought that this retrograde motion will have a negative connotation in the astrological realm.
One of astrology’s most nerve-wracking events, researchers have closely analysed what could happen during this three-week period.
Some astrologer believe it can lead to…
- Fallings out with friends
- Experiencing misunderstandings
- Travel, logic and communication getting disrupted
- Emails getting lost
- Flights being delayed
- Other misfortune
- Brain fog
- Anxiety
- Confusions around work projects
- Headaches
- Miscommunication
When will Mercury be in retrograde in 2022?
Mercury will go into retrograde three times in 2022. They are as follows, according to findyourfate.com:
– January 2022 Mercury retrograde – starting on 14th January in Aquarius and ending on 3rd February in Pisces
When Mercury retrogrades in a water-based star sign – like Pisces – it is believed that emotions and feelings could be compromised for those affected. Pisces are thought to be imaginative dreamers with strong emotions and feelings. Mercury retrograde in Pisces could cause a revamp of these passions by throwing logic and the sensible side of a Pisces into question. Some suggest that it would be a good time for a Pisces to focus on their internal selves as opposed to more external ventures.
– May 2022 Mercury retrograde – starting on 10th May in Gemini and ending on 2nd June in Gemini
– September 2022 Mercury retrograde – starting on 9th September in Libra and ending on 2nd October in Libra
How can you harness the energy of Mercury being in retrograde?
Are you looking to make the most of Mercury being in retrograde? According to Daisy Foss, an International Healer, the upcoming retrograde will occur under Mercury’s ruling sign of Gemini, intensifying any desires for freedom or to explore.
Speaking to PsychicWorld.com, Daisy said: “The energy of Gemini is very flirty, romantic and clever, always seeing two sides to everything, however, combined with the broken cycle of its ruling planet in retrograde, these two weeks can be emotionally chaotic.”
If you have a crystal at home, now is the perfect time to make use of those. “The crystal Amazonite is particularly potent during this time due to the strong Gemini energy whilst transitioning into June,” advises Daisy.
“Through balancing masculine and feminine energies, Amazonite helps you to see both sides of any personal or interpersonal problems which is vital during this time of strained communication. Try warming up an Amazonite crystal by a radiator or candle to expel this calming and neutralising energy.”
How can Mercury being in retrograde affect your friendships?
According to Daisy, Mercury being in retrograde could cause huge relationship challenges, such as cheating, betrayal or loss of intimacy. She says: “As this planet appears to retreat, it may feel like it’s all going wrong in your love life, as you bring up issues and arguments from the past.
“Communication is key and with Mercury, the planet of communication, seemingly backtracking, you have to work extra hard! Focus on making your relationship stronger by talking, being honest and openhearted.”
What else we know about the retrograde
Mercury is the planet closest to the sun and only slightly larger than the Earth’s moon. It’s also the fastest planet in our solar system, which means it enters retrograde around three to four times a year for three-week periods.