Mercury Retrograde: A Different Perspective
Why there is nothing to worry about when Mercury retrogrades
Approximately three times a year, the astrological community stirs into a frenzy. As Mercury appears to retrograde in the sky, the usual dire predictions emerge — missed flights, glitchy computers, miscommunication, and all sorts of mishaps. It’s all, they say, due to Mercury’s prankish and mischievous nature.
And indeed, if you observe this cycle over time, you may notice an uncanny increase in disruptions during these periods. But before you throw in the towel and resign yourself to three weeks of hiding under the covers, let me offer a different perspective.
There Is Nothing Either Good or Bad
First, let me reassure you: while I’m talking about Mercury and its movement across the sky, this has nothing to do with astronomy, celestial mechanics, or planetary physics. It just so happens that Mercury’s cycle aligns synchronistically with a similar rhythm in our psyche. This cycle governs our natural curiosity, attention to detail, and ability to observe and communicate. And what aspects of life are more affected than our daily routines — our commutes, conversations, plans, and interactions with the world? This is what the Mercurial cycle is truly about.
Just as Mercury appears to drift backward in the sky during its retrograde, something equally intriguing happens within us. We are invited — perhaps even compelled — to turn our perception and intellectual curiosity inward, exploring the depths of our inner world.
Yes, communication becomes glitchy. And yes, it’s often wise to postpone major travel plans or avoid signing important contracts if possible — not because the universe is conspiring against us, but because our attention is simply elsewhere. Our psyche, or subconscious self, is less focused on the external world and instead becomes preoccupied with the intangible realms of thoughts, feelings, and ideas.
When Mercury turns retrograde, I inevitably find myself overflowing with ideas for writing but with little inclination to travel or engage in social interactions. So, I lean into it. I write my blogs, articles, and books. I brainstorm business ideas. I allow myself to fully immerse in creative work.
I don’t rush to act on much, however, because I know that once Mercury turns direct again, my focus will return to the external world. There will be plenty of time for travel, purchases, and new explorations.
Honor this cycle, and life flows with greater ease. Resist it, and everything feels sluggish — delays pile up, mistakes become frustrating, and miscommunication abounds. The choice is yours.
Mercury Retrograde: March 14–April 7, 2025
If you’re open to working with these cycles — and I highly recommend that you do — here’s the next Mercury retrograde period: March 14 — April 7, 2025.
Plan around it, but don’t be too rigid. Some of my best experiences have happened during Mercury retrograde. Take, for instance, my vacation to Tampa Bay last year. Any conventional astrologer would have warned of travel mishaps, and they would have been right — one of my flights was delayed. But because I anticipated potential hiccups, I stayed calm, and in the end, the trip was wonderful. Once I finally arrived at my destination, I embraced the slower pace, dedicating my time to reflection, writing, and other creative yet introspective pursuits.
Don’t forget to account for the transition periods as well — about two to three weeks before and after Mercury retrograde. Nature doesn’t operate in sudden jumps; all transitions happen gradually. As Mercury shifts direction, expect a little more disorder, a touch of chaos — it’s simply the natural turbulence of a system moving from one state to another.
