Day 278 of 365 - Mercury Retrograde

We are in the second Mercury Retrograde of this year.  It started on July 8th and lasts until the end of the month.  There will be one more this year in November.  Since I'll be finished this blog challenge before then, I've decided to write about it now.  Mercury Retrograde tends to get a bad rap, particularly for influencing mechanical, technology and scheduling glitches.  Many people have come to dread the few times a year that it occurs.  My husband, who recently retired from his computer technician role, used to notice an increase in computer problems of his customers during this time.

However, there is a more positive spin to be taken on these times.  When Mercury is in Retrograde, it's a great time to slow down, step back and do anything that starts with re-.  For example, it's a great time to review, reconsider and reorganize in any area of your life.  When we take this stance, we can actually be re-energized during this period, instead of feeling frazzled.

The planet Mercury rules the mind, so when it's in retrograde, it's a good time to unclutter your mind.  If you have been feeling overloaded or overwhelmed by too much digital input, for example, it's a good time to take a break from unnecessary media.  Embracing more times of silence during this phase can be very productive too.  Solutions to problems may unexpectedly come to you.  It's also an opportunity to brainstorm new ways of approaching situations.

When you are taking your digital break, maybe taking a walk in nature will inspire different approaches to a problem or challenge.  Or, doing something playful and creative might do the same thing for you.  This might also be a time to reconnect with people you haven't seen in a long time, or just to reconnect with yourself during alone time, doing things that feel good to you.

Mercury happens to be the ruling planet of my zodiac sign of Virgo.  It helps to explain my very analytical mind, and why I like so much to poke around and dig deep into trying to understand things or solve problems.  The planet Mercury rules journalists, writers and critics, among other things.  Ironically, at one point I pondered going back to school to study writing and journalism when I was considering a career change.

The influence of Mercury makes me the kind of personality with which you can easily have a love/hate relationship.  You could love to have me on your side when your are trying to figure something out or to solve a problem.  Or, you could wish I would take a hike when my questions seem meddlesome or I offer well intended but unsolicited advice.  I get it!  Mercury is about communication, and it's a lifelong learning for me to refine my communication skills.

Anyway, back to Mercury Retrograde.  Given that there could be communication snafus, it would be wise to double check your calendar, confirm appointments and reservations, and proof read any sensitive texts or emails twice before hitting the Send button, through the end of July.

Think of your mind slowing down and rewinding during this time, if you will.  Instead of pushing yourself to keep up a hectic pace, if possible, give yourself some leeway to allow for readjustments.

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