Mercury Retrograde

Written By Jeri Stroupe

Let’s talk about Mercury Retrograde in a way that’s easy to understand, both astronomically and spiritually, along with how people are affected and how to thrive during this time.

 What is Mercury Retrograde (in simple terms)?

Mercury Retrograde is an optical illusion that happens a few times a year, where the planet Mercury appears to move backward in the sky from our view on Earth. It’s not really moving backward—it just looks that way because of the relative motion of the planets.

Since Mercury rules communication, travel, and technology, astrologers believe these areas get a little “glitchy” during this time.

This occurred on or will occur on:

March 14th – April 7th

July 17th – August 11th

November 9th – November 29th

 

Spiritually Speaking…

In many spiritual traditions, Mercury Retrograde is seen as a time of:

  • Reflection

  • Slowing down

  • Revisiting the past

  • Realigning with your truth

Think of it like the Universe putting up a big “Pause & Rethink” sign. Instead of rushing forward, you’re invited to review, reassess, and reset.

 

How Do People Tend to Act?

During Mercury Retrograde, people might:

  • Miscommunicate easily (texts/emails taken the wrong way)

  • Forget appointments or lose items

  • Experience tech issues (frozen computers, crashed files)

  • Have travel delays

  • Feel mentally foggy or emotionally touchy

  • Have old relationships or memories resurface

So yes, people often feel less productive, but it's not necessarily a bad thing—it’s a chance to slow down and do inner work instead of outer hustle.

How to Thrive During Mercury Retrograde:

✔️ Do:

  • Double-check your messages, travel plans, and contracts

  • Back up your files

  • Use “RE” words: Reflect, Revisit, Reorganize, Repair, Reconnect

  • Finish old projects instead of starting brand-new ones

  • Practice mindfulness & grounding (meditation, breathwork, walking barefoot)

❌ Avoid if possible:

  • Signing major contracts

  • Starting new relationships or jobs

  • Making impulsive decisions

 

Mercury Affirmation:

“I move with clarity and grace. I trust that every delay is guiding me toward something better.”

Jeri Stroupe
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Intro to Meridians