Mercury in Retrograde Again!

• Posted on 11 September 2022
• By Cody Coyotee
• 0

Mercury in Retrograde September 9-October 1, 2022: What this cycle may bring, and the tools to help you through it.

The term retrograde comes from the Latin word retrogradus, which literally means “backward step.”

It’s during this time, the planet Mercury appears to travel backwards in the sky when viewed from earth. Normally, each planet in our solar system appears to move from the east to the west in the night sky. During a retrograde period, they appear to move from west to east. While none of the planets actually travel backwards in orbit, they all take part in this optical illusion occasionally. Since Mercury completes a cycle around the Sun every 88 days, Mercury, ‘the Swift Planet,’ goes retrograde 3 or 4 times a year, for around 3 weeks at a time. 

Astrologers believe that these celestial movements affect our lives on Earth significantly, with each planet and star having great influence over different aspects of life. Mercury, like the Greek messenger god for which it was named, is said to govern transportation and communication. According to astrologers, when Mercury goes into a retrograde phase, it’s positive influence over these realms is constrained, leading to turmoil. Mercury retrograde is often blamed for everything from arguments in relationships, lost luggage, mail, and money, car trouble and accidents, and even trouble with electronics. Astrologers warn people to avoid signing contracts, extensive travel, and even large purchases or repairs. 

Mercury Retrograde isn’t all doom, gloom, and miscommunications, and it certainly isn’t the end of the world. After all, Mercury goes into retrograde at least three times every year. In 2022, we actually have four! While many will attribute every little misfortune of the next coming weeks to Mercury without another thought, the retrograde period does have some necessary and cathartic qualities. Mercury Retrograde is time to gain insight and closure. Many joke that ex-partners often reach out during a retrograde, and all jokes aside, this is often the case, though it doesn’t mean that you must speak to them. If there are unresolved issues from your past that you have set aside or intentionally avoided, those issues often resurface and they will demand attention during these cycles. And while that may sound unpleasant, the rehashing and settling of these past issues is ultimately necessary for growth. This time also may cause us to think more about what we want in our lives and what we do not, though it is important not to make rash decisions. Mercury Retrograde definitely reminds us to be mindful of our words, actions, and thoughts. The more mindful we are, the more trouble we will save ourselves during this and every part of the celestial cycle.

This particular Mercury Retrograde period began yesterday, September 9th, 2022 in the sign of Libra, the sign of balance, justice, harmony, and close relationships. This means this retrograde season may affect the balance- or lack thereof- in your life and your closest bonds. On September 23rd, 2022, this retrograde moves into the sign of Virgo, the ruler of logic, habits, ritual, and pure intentions. During this time, you may feel a need to strategically reorganize your life so that all the moving parts feel cozy. After all, the first half of this retrograde will likely have led to some deep thoughts about imbalances in your life and relationships, so it makes sense that the second half of this retrograde season would be about… making things make more sense.

Now that we have given you the basics about Mercury Retrograde, we want to share with you some tips and tools to get through it!

Tip #1: Don’t Panic!

While things may not always go as we plan for the next few weeks, there is no need to be overly anxious. We ride these waves at least 3 times every year, and not every aspect of Mercury Retrograde is negative.

Tool #1: The Right Rocks!

Whether you choose to meditate with these crystals, keep them in a small satchel on your person, or simply place them around your home, these stones seem to be the most universally helpful during Mercury Retrograde.

Black Tourmaline- Transmutes negative energy

Clear Quartz- Aids mental clarity

Amazonite- For clear communication

Amethyst- Provides a calming vibration

Petrified Wood- Great for grounding

Fluorite- Helps with rational thought

Tip #2: Cleanse and Declutter!

Mercury Retrograde is prime time for getting through unfinished business. If you have piles of clothes to be donated, papers to be filed or shredded, or even rugs to be shampooed, now is the time. Even if your space is clean and clutter free, it’s still important to declutter your mind! It’s also a good time to cleanse the vibration of your space and your energy by smudging.

Tool #2: A Good Smudge

Smudging can be done in a variety of ways, from singing bowls and bells, to sprays infused with essential oils and crystals. We do have some Mercury Retrograde favorites we recommend!

Cedar Smudge: Protection

Rosemary Smudge: Purification

Eucalyptus Smudge: Rejuvenation

Tip #3: Reconnect with Yourself!

Retrogrades spin the energy inward, as opposed to the outward energetic flow of a direct phase. Since Mercury is the governing planet of communication, Mercury’s Retrograde period is a wonderful time for self reflection and to commune with your inner feelings. Journaling, Self-guided tarot readings and pendulum divination, gratitude lists, and handwritten affirmations are all especially effective during this phase.

Tool #3: Journal and Pendulum

This Vegan Leather Journal with Amethyst Closure and Pendulum Chart Cover is a perfect Retrograde companion.There is even a clear pocket with a zipper to keep your favorite pen and pendulum!

Tip #4: Exercise Outdoors and Stay Hydrated!

Technology has a way of confounding us during Mercury Retrograde- if not outright failing. It’s good to disconnect for a while, and immerse ourselves in the beauty of nature. It’s also important to take time to slow down during retrograde and take care of ourselves. So cancel that meeting (it could have been an email anyway) and head to your nearest wooded area for a pleasant stroll.

Tool #4: A Sturdy Water Bottle

This one may seem out of place but, listen, the universe knows you are dehydrated. A fun, yet convenient water bottle would help, especially during Mercury Retrograde when it’s so easy to let selfcare fall by the wayside.

More Mercury Retrograde Tips:

#5: Take advantage of the slower pace.

#6: Confirm your plans. Confirm them again.

#7: Review everything before submission. 

#8: Communicate extra clearly and check for understanding.

#9: Work on your flexibility in body, mind, and spirit.

#10: Be gentle with yourself and others.

Final Thoughts

One of least often specified, but most important things that Mercury’s Retrograde season brings is change. Many people have a hard time facing change. The mere thought of any change brings anxiety and fear for some. By refusing to face these fears, we make our own growing pains worse. Everything is temporary- especially periods of change and adjustment. Mercury Retrograde should remind us that discomfort leads to growth, as long as we are paying attention. If you really think about it, will all of the snags and inconveniences of a retrograde period affect you for more than a few days? More often than not, the answer to that question is a resounding “NO.” 

As long as we do our best to be mindful, open to learning, and accepting of change, we will all be just fine, even if we do miss the bus or forget our phone in an Uber.