Mercury retrograde is notorious for messing things up, causing stress, and generally turning lives upside down. This chaotic three-week period happens three to four times a year, and once it's over, you're usually left with a desperate need to reset.
Mercury retrograde occurs when Mercury appears to be moving backwards in the sky, says astrologer and spiritual counselor Letao Wang. Since Mercury is associated with communication, Mercury retrograde is said to turn everything upside down, leading to bad moods, arguments, technical issues and travel delays.
It's why your car won't start, you find yourself arguing with your partner and friends, and you can't seem to get anything done at work. According to Wang, each sign will experience these challenges in a unique way.
While some signs experience Mercury's full influence, others may notice that their relationships are the area most affected—or their travels, or their technology. This is why each sign has its own unique post-retrograde ritual, which will help them recalibrate and reset once Mercury goes direct.
Whether it's a spa night, a trip to the park, or a night out with friends, here are all the ways for every sign to find balance after Mercury retrograde.
Aries (March 21-April 19)
Mercury retrograde tends to have a big impact on you, especially during Aries season. It instantly fills your life with chaos and miscommunication, and you can't help but feel irritated all the time.
That's why after three weeks of frustration, you can really benefit from an extra sweat session. "Convert pent-up energy into physical exercise," Wang said. "Serious exercise can help release stress and clear your mind."
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
Many Taurus get through Mercury retrograde relatively unscathed. As a pragmatic earth sign, it's easy for you to get on with business as usual, even when everyone else is freaking out. Your ruler Venus can also act as a protective buffer, Wang says, helping you maintain a calm, collected mood.
That said, you can never say no to being kind to yourself. To reset, Wang recommends pampering yourself a little. “Engage in activities that bring comfort, such as gardening, cooking a luxurious meal, or having a self-care spa day at home.”
Gemini (May 21 to June 20)
As a sign ruled by Mercury, Gemini is always one of the signs most affected by Mercury retrograde. It will be a nightmare for you from beginning to end and you will often face all possible problems related to astrological events.
You lose your phone, miss your train, and sometimes even break up with your partner over a simple misunderstanding. This is a chaotic time, so once the dust settles, you should enjoy a calmer event.
"Since communication is crucial for Geminis and retrograde can hit you hard, take the time to reconnect with your close circle through meaningful conversations," he says. “Spending a technology-free day in nature can also clear your mind.”
Cancer (June 21 to July 22)
As an emotional water sign, Cancer will experience stress before, during, and after Mercury retrograde. You'll want to be prepared for technical issues and travel delays, and be constantly on the lookout for signs of trouble. This time of year can really make you nervous, which is why a spa night is appropriate.
Stand in the steamy shower, apply a mask, and lie down on the couch. To rebalance, Wang says, you may also want to clean, organize or do a DIY project at home to help reestablish your sense of security. "This could be the perfect reset button."
Leo (July 23-August 22)
Every time Mercury goes retrograde, Leos tend to be hit hard with travel delays, relationship problems, and misunderstandings with friends. After three stressful weeks, you definitely deserve an evening of arts and crafts.
"Expressive Leos may find comfort in creative pursuits," Wang said. Whether it's drawing, painting or collage, it feels right to turn your experiences into art as a way of processing them and moving forward, he said.
Virgo (August 23-September 22)
As a sign ruled by Mercury, and one of the most affected signs, Virgo is affected by every retrograde.
To give yourself a clean slate, go through your apartment and tidy it up. "A thorough cleaning and decluttering can help you feel in control, reduce stress, and make space for new energy," says Wang.
Digital decluttering can also do the trick. Swipe through your phone and delete unused apps, ancient text threads and duplicate photos - and breathe a sigh of relief.
Libra (September 23-October 22)
"For Libras, seeking balance is innate," Wang said. "After retrograde, engage in meditation or a partner-based yoga practice to restore harmony to your relationships and yourself." Try some Tadasana poses and laugh at how difficult it is to stand on one leg, or just stretch on your own.
It's important to do what you want to do whenever possible. If you don't want to go out at night, don't go out. If you want to turn on Do Not Disturb on your phone, that's it. Once Mercury's disruption is over, it can feel especially good to take another look at yourself and your needs.
Scorpio (October 23rd - November 21st)
Scorpios are well aware of Mercury retrograde happening, but instead of feeling pressured, you often feel the need to lean into this strange energy and use it to your advantage. As a sign ruled by transformative Pluto, you like to use this time to reflect, Wang says.
Since this in itself can be exhausting, Wang recommends engaging in renewing practices in the days after Mercury goes direct, such as meditation, long baths, or walks by the lake. "As a water sign, Scorpio will find new life near bodies of water," he says. These things can feel like a much-needed emotional detox.
Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)
If your life has been in chaos, the days following Mercury retrograde will be the perfect time to let go and do some fun things. "A short trip or outdoor adventure can help Sagittarius reset," Wang says. "A change of scenery can do wonders for your spirit, inspiring reflection and new ideas."
As a fire sign, you always feel your best when you're socializing and having fun, so another option is meeting up with friends. Plan a fun night out and do something exciting like belting out karaoke songs in a crowded bar.
Capricorn (December 22-January 19)
As an earth sign, with Saturn being the planet of responsibility, Capricorns like things to go according to plan. But since this never happens during Mercury retrograde, this period tends to drive you completely crazy.
To reset, try focusing on planning and goal setting. "Retrograde can throw off your plans, so reassessing your goals and creating a detailed plan of action will help you regain your sense of direction," he says.
Aquarius (January 20 to February 18)
As a sign ruled by Uranus, the planet of technology, you absolutely despise Mercury retrograde. It annoys you when things go wrong, like when your text messages won't send or when your internet keeps dropping out, and you hate the way it makes everyone behave.
Wang says that in order to start fresh after all the chaos and chaos, all Aquarians should unplug for a day. To do better, he said, it might help to get out there and do something useful. “Volunteering or spending time with like-minded people can recharge your batteries and restore your faith in humanity.”
Pisces (February 19-March 20)
Pisces is another sign that is one of the most affected by Mercury retrograde. As a sensitive Water sign, you will sense a major shift in energy - and you will find it so exhausting to deal with it. To get everything back to normal for you, Wang recommends taking a day alone.
Instead of running errands or meeting friends, spend a dark Saturday at home. You can journal, meditate, or relax by watching your favorite romantic comedy, which should help clear your mind and refocus your emotions.
source:
Letao Wang, astrologer, spiritual counselor
