Mercury in Retrograde and you!

Posted on August 30, 2023 by Monica Reed

If it seems a lot of people have lost their minds, it’s because Mercury retrograde is officially here. If you’ve been scratching your head wondering what this astrological phenomenon is actually about, here you go!

In Western astrology, Mercury is known as the planet of communication. Named after the Roman god, Mercury the planet is similarly responsible for sending and receiving messages and also rules language, writing, research, technology, learning, intellect and travel.

(Video courtesy of CBS Mornings)

Mercury is one of the quickest-moving planets in our solar system.

However, at least three times a year, Mercury takes what appears to be a brief pause and reverses its trajectory in the sky. During these roughly three weeks, all the areas that Mercury governs like sending and receiving messages, learning, intellect, are similarly affected by its “backward” movements. As a result, down here on Earth, people are supposed to experience glitches in technology, communication, travel and possibly a loss of scruples. Idk about that one, I just made that up….or did I?

To clear up any confusion, Mercury is not actually moving backward in the sky at this time. This is a visual phenomenon based on our relative position to the planet that makes it appear as if it’s slowing down or reversing.

One of the most common themes during Mercury retrograde is the fact that you may find that people from your past come back to visit you. This could mean you receive communication from old friends or exes who want to reconnect.

Here are some Important Mercury Retrograde Dates
So far in 2023, we’ve already experienced two retrogrades: from Dec. 28, 2022 to Jan. 18, 2023, and from Apr. 21 to May 14. The current retrograde started on Aug. 23 and will go until Sept. 14. The last one of the year will start on Dec. 13 and end on Jan. 1, 2024.
Just know that going full speed ahead during this time will not likely be your best bet. Retrogrades can be a great time to slow down and reflect on our journeys instead of barreling through.