What is Mercury in retrograde? Astrologer advice on how to navigate the chaos
Mercury will go into retrograde starting April 21 through May 14.
Mercury is going into retrograde.
Don't freak out. Instead, take some time to read more about what that means and how it might affect your astrological sign specifically.
We've got you covered.
What is Mercury in retrograde?
Starting April 21 until May 14, Mercury will go into a "retrograde" motion, meaning the rotation of the planet appears to spin backward.
It's important to note that the planet does not physically move backward in orbit. According to NASA, retrograde motion is simply an illusion caused by the ways that Earth and planets like Mercury, Mars and Jupiter orbit the sun. (Mars retrograde happens once every two years, according to NASA; Mercury retrograde happens more frequently.)
As NASA explains it, Mars and Earth, for example, "are like race cars on an oval track. Earth has the inside lane and moves faster than Mars -- so much faster, in fact, that it makes two laps around the course in about as much time as it takes Mars to go around once."
As Earth's orbit overtakes the other planet's orbit, in other words, the sudden change in positioning makes it seem as though the other planet has changed direction.
"This apparent erratic movement is called 'retrograde motion,'" the agency states. "The illusion also happens with Jupiter and the other planets that orbit farther from the sun.
In simpler terms, consider the illusion that occurs when two cars pass. To the driver of one car, the oncoming car may appear to be moving forward as normal, but once it passes by, the other car appears to be moving backward -- even though that isn't actually the case.
What does Mercury in retrograde mean in astrology?
Some ancient cultures and many modern believers think that what happens in the sky is mirrored within our lives. Although retrograde is an optical illusion from above, it is thought to have a major effect on us here on earth.
In astrology, Mercury is known as the planet of communication, intelligence, media and technology in our day-to-day lives. When this planet goes into retrograde, some believe it has major effects on their routine, like a late train messing up a schedule or an email bouncing back for no reason.
Celebrity astrologer Kyle Thomas, who is known for his cosmic guidance among celebrities, businesses and online influencers, spoke to "Good Morning America" about retrograde and how a little chaos can be a good thing.
"Mercury retrograde phases are not here to destroy you or create problems. Instead, they are here to help you slow down and review, reassess and reorganize," said Thomas, who added that you might see old people, projects or situations pop up from your past during this "backward" time.
"The best part about this is that we may realize we want to fine-tune our plans or reunite with that person or situation," he added.
However, Thomas advises against making any big agreements, starting new relationships or signing any contracts during this time period. Communication is likely to be misunderstood and technology, whether it's a car or a computer, is likely to fall apart.
"Delays and obstacles are likely to manifest," said Thomas. "It's best to lie low, relax and watch what happens rather than stressing yourself out. This, too, shall pass."
What does Mercury in retrograde mean for your zodiac sign?
Check your birthday below to see Thomas' advice.
Aries (March 21 to April 19)
Time to slow down. You've celebrated your birthday and begun new chapters, but now expect plenty of delays and frustrations around your income and finances. Triple-check all expenses, said Thomas.
Taurus (April 20 to May 20)
Enjoy a mini-vacation or do what you do best: Treat yourself. Mercury will be causing all sorts of challenges in regard to projects and plans. Instead of fighting the current, take a moment to go with the flow, according to Thomas.
Gemini (May 21 to June 20)
Check in with yourself, Gemini, and ask yourself, how are you really doing? Mercury could drudge up all of your anxieties and insecurities. Focus on your mental health and don't let secrets or unresolved situations haunt you, said Thomas.
Cancer (June 21 to July 22)
Beware of some mischief in your social life, Cancer. Miscommunications could happen in relation to friendships and social plans. Old friends and flames may show up during this time. If you'd like to reunite with anyone, do so now, Thomas said.
Leo (July 23 to Aug. 22)
Don't make a mountain out of a molehill and keep things in perspective. Mercury may bring dysfunction to your career and professional projects. Delays, conflicts with a boss, or challenging news around your ambitions could manifest, said Thomas.
Virgo (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22)
Beware of storms brewing on the horizon, dear Virgo. Take warning. You may find yourself not seeing eye-to-eye with others. There may be frustrations in regard to academics, media endeavors or even legalities, according to Thomas.
Libra (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22)
Take some time to assess your relationships, Libra. Mercury may stir the pot with a partnership and you may be left feeling like there is an imbalance in a significant relationship. Watch your trust or sharing issues, said Thomas -- it could bring frustrations to finances.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21)
Buckle up, Scorpio, this will be a bumpy ride. Mercury is set to bring confusion and disruption to your partnerships and relationships. These intense feelings could bring new friction or old problems. Be mindful of who comes into your life during this time, said Thomas.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21)
Phew, Sagittarius, just take a breath. Mercury may bring headaches around your professional life and your employment. You may sense confusion with your co-workers and your responsibilities. If you'd like to reconnect with an old employer, do so now, said Thomas.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19)
Beware of past relationships and unresolved business, Capricorn. Mercury will bring all sorts of confusion around your love life and your passions. Don't be discouraged if a new connection suddenly stops responding or an old lover is having second thoughts, said Thomas.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18)
Focus on recharging, Aquarius, your battery is running low. Mercury may disrupt your domestic matters, this can include anything from something personal, like your family life, to the more superficial, like home renovations. Expect delays and frustrations, according to Thomas.
Pisces (Feb. 19 to March 20)
The room may feel like it's spinning, Pisces. Use it as an excuse to find your center. Mercury will bring confusion around your ideas, opinions and plans. You may face hurdles around traveling, important writing or speaking initiatives and contractual agreements, Thomas said.
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