So, Mercury is in retrograde, and you’re worried about your mental health. The computer stopped working properly, your phone is acting up, communication is in disarray, and your mind is frazzled beyond repair.
Or is it?
Listen, we know that Mercury retrograde can give us a hard time, astrologically speaking. But there are quite a few misconceptions (aka myths) about this transit that make it seem much scarier than it actually is.
After all, everything – including planetary transits – happens for a reason. And while there are a few limitations that may be brought on by a Mercury retrograde period, it might not be as bad as it seems.
If you’re feeling uneasy about the current Mercury retrograde cycle, this guide is for you. We’re here to debunk 10 common myths about Mercury in retrograde.
But first, learn all about the planet of Mercury with: Your Ultimate Guide to Controversial Mercury Retrograde
Mercury never truly moves backward during this period but rather rests at a certain angle to Earth – this is also sometimes called apparent retrograde motion. During this period, Mercury appears (to the naked eye) to be moving backward. However, this means that this planet is no longer moving in a forward motion at the same speed that it typically does.
Mercury is the planet of communication, travel, technology, connection with our fellow man. The emblem of the United States Postal Service features the seal of Mercury, denoting its importance in the realm of connection among humankind.
When this planet slows its roll, metaphorically speaking, it creates a fog in these realms: communication becomes difficult, technology becomes frazzled, travel becomes filled with snags.
Yet, there is still something to be learned and gained from this transit.
But working on current projects can flow quite smoothly during this time. It all depends on your attitude!
Just because a relationship or circumstance faces challenges during this time doesn’t mean that these fights will stand the test of time. Energies are tense during this influence and will likely level out when Mercury goes direct again.
You might want to read: What to Expect When Mercury Goes Direct
This isn’t a time to get down in the dumps. It’s a time to praise yourself for all that you’re capable of facing.
5. Relationships Are Doomed
Some people feel like avoiding their partner altogether during this time is the best idea, but there’s no reason to take such drastic measures. Your relationship is either solid or perhaps on shaky ground due to many factors that have nothing to do with Mercury and its trajectory.
While there may exist increased conflict during this time, a Mercury retrograde cycle will not destroy a relationship by itself.
This influence isn’t entirely wired to encourage romance and connectivity, so there could actually be an argument made that connections made under this influence might be even stronger. Don’t deny fate for any planetary transit!
If you know about this transit, you may be more inclined to pay attention to frustrations or conflicts that creep up during this time; however, this influence affects everyone, whether or not they are consciously aware of what is causing disruptions in their life.
Not sure where Mercury lies in your natal chart? Find out using our free birth chart calculator!
Ultimately, your attitude will greatly affect your experience with this transit.
Give it time, let Mercury get back on track, and things will smooth out. But don’t throw your phone away from one little glitch right now.
Many people believe that Mercury retrograde increases your chances of reconciling with an ex or an estranged friend. However, this influence also reminds us of the issues and challenges we faced with these past relationships.
So, take a closer look before diving back in.
While many people may feel the effects of Mercury retrograde, it may also go unnoticed for a few. It is useful to know about this period to avoid frustrations if and when things go array, but Mercury retrograde is not a guarantee that your life will be disrupted.
If you learn to tackle this transit head-on, you may even thrive off of Mercury’s lessons and find personal growth and evolution.
Related article: How Will the Mercury Shadow Impact You?