LIFE

All right astrology-loving darlings, let's chat about Mercury Retrograde

You've probably heard the phrase thrown around a lot, especially in the past few weeks. That's because we just got out of a Retrograde. So if something has been feeling, well, ~off~ lately, Mercury Retrograde could be why! It's alright babes, we're all going through it together.

HOLD UP. WHAT DOES "MERCURY IN RETROGRADE" EVEN MEAN?

Solid question! In astrology, Mercury is the planet of travel, communication and the mind. Mercury goes into "retrograde" about three or four times a year, for about three and a half weeks each.

When we say "retrograde," we mean that the planet appears to orbit backward based on how we see it from Earth. (sidenote for all you space-lovers out there: This is actually a *super* interesting optical illusion based on how Earth's orbit compares to the orbits of other planets.)

So, when Mercury goes into retrograde, situations involving travel, communication and mindfulness can get, well, wonky—for lack of a better word.

WONKY?

Yep. Maybe there's a delay in your travel plans, or you and your bestie get into an argument after a super unfortunate miscommunication. You might also have to deal with tech problems or embarrassing slip-ups. 

The most recent Mercury Retrograde ended on July 12—cue the sigh of relief—and was in the season of Cancer, so, most likely, the past few weeks have been pretty emotional for you.

YIKES. IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE I SHOULD LOOK OUT FOR DURING MERCURY RETROGRADE?

Mercury Retrogrades are *all* about revisiting the past—whether that's a text out of the blue from your ex-bestie or ex-boo, or a memory that relates to an issue you're dealing with now.

That sounds nerve-wracking (and now you get why we get so nervous for a new retrograde), but Mercury Retrograde can actually be a great time to reevaluate a lot of key moments in your life—even if your phone might be glitching out in the process.

SO HOW SHOULD I *PREPARE* FOR THE NEXT MERCURY RETROGRADE?

Astrology is a great way to self-reflect, and that self-reflection is exactly what you should keep in mind during a Mercury Retrograde.

Double-check any messages you might be sending or how you respond to a sticky situation. And always keep yourself open to reevaluating any issues that might be coming up in your life, whether past or present. It might be tough, but it's worth it!

Mercury Retrograde can also be a great time to reflect on the lessons you've learned in the past to help you better grow in the future.

Are you *loving* learning more about astrology? Let us know on Instagram and Twitter @girlslifemag!

by Erin Sargent | 7/13/2020