Three Ways to Avoid Mercury Retrograde Hysteria

Astrology has become more mainstream than ever before, thanks to the Internet and a whole bunch of enthusiastic millenials. Overall, I think this is a good thing; I was honestly worried ten years ago that astrology might die out. Glad I was anxious for no reason. Thanks millenials!

One of the side effects of this enthusiasm is that people of all ages and walks of life are learning more and more about astrology. And Mercury and his frequent retrogrades as well as their potential side effects have clearly captured the attention of a much larger audience than ever before. This raises the topic more often in public discourse, but not always in a positive way. 

Mercury retrograde has become the frequent target of blame for many people whose lives are not going exactly the way they want them to. It also is a common theme when trying to justify things people said that they might not have meant, or things they actually did mean but said in a way that was not as positive as they would have preferred. 

Nowadays, every four months people start the OMFG MERCURY IS GOING RETROGRADE! dance. And I will agree that there are some potential problems that can occur during Mercury's retrograde--usually three or four times a year for three weeks, if you're asking. But freaking out is not the best way to make use of your time.

So here are a few ways to avoid the Mercury retrograde hysteria!

1) Beware of the self-fulfilling prophecy. I hear people say "This Merc retrograde is going to SUCK!" What do you think happens when you say that? When something does happen to you, it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy and you blame Mercury. Don't assume that it will be good or bad during a retrograde period; we all have different experiences. 

2) Observe what happens, then consider its possible relationship to Mercury without assuming there is one. I'd be the first to tell you that Mercury is an important astrological planet. But he isn't responsible for everything up there, folks, and you know it. 

3) "The stars may impel, but they cannot compel." This wonderful quote is from St. Augustine, believe it or not. This Scorpio saint reinforced the idea that we as human beings are responsible for our own actions and our reactions to what happens to us, not the stars. Can we choose different times so that the stars can help us succeed in our efforts? Absolutely. But when something does go wrong, it's not the planet's fault. Sometimes shit just happens. 

In summary, people have been dealing with Mercury retrograde periods for thousands of years. There's no need to get spun up about it. Don't give over your responsibility for decision-making to any planet!

If you're curious about how a given retrograde might affect you, consult your astrologer and they can give you more insight. But for the time being, be cautious when dealing with Mercury-ruled areas of your life; speak slowly and clearly and wait to make sure your messages are received; and be a little more patient with others without assuming ill intent.

You could feel the effects through August 20. Enjoy the retrograde and don't hesitate to send me your observations!