Your favorite planet is about to do its thing, and Mercury retrograde effects are at the forefront of our minds.
The Mercury shadow period is planting the seeds for what's to come during the event itself, and now we're bracing for malfunctioning laptops and worried about breaking up during Mercury retrograde.
To make matters all the more urgent, our September cosmic calendar indicates that we're going to be hyper-focused on relationships this month, so everyone's a bit on edge, especially taking this celestial troublemaker into consideration. Oh, and did we mention it takes place right after the September 2022 full moon? Yep, there's a lot of cosmic energy coming our way, but it'll be just fine—trust us.
Rather than fret or prepare for an impending meltdown, you can take this as an opportunity to reassess and adjust accordingly. Despite the craze around the astrological happening, it doesn't need to be bad. In fact, the pros actually welcome it.
"It’s really important to not be afraid of Mercury retrograde or assume that things are going to go wrong," says astrologer Nina Kahn. "Retrogrades are a totally normal part of life. They're a reminder to slow down, reflect and give ourselves a chance to revise anything."
Nina Kahn is an author and mystical content creator. Check out her books, Astrology For Life and The Joy Of Hex.
Likewise, astrologer Noush actually looks forward to this time. Yes, you've read that correctly.
"I personally like Mercury retrograde," she admits. "There's this call to reassess our values and our emotional commitment to certain areas of our lives and we'll realize that whatever choice we make, change is part of the process."
See? Mercury might be a little bit bold and in-your-face, but it's not necessarily bad! Even if you're not entirely convinced and those Mercury retrograde memes are doing more harm than good, allow the cosmic pros to walk you through the infamous happening and the best survival tips.
The good news? We're soon to be three quarters of the way through Mercury retrograde 2022, and what better astrology gift can we ask for than that?
An astrologer, creative and crystal enthusiast, Noush believes in the combination of energy healing and practical spirituality to bring meaning into our lives. You can learn more about your cosmic blueprint during an astrology reading with her or shop through an incredible collection of healing crystals @jooncrystals.
How to combat Mercury retrograde effects
So, what exactly happens when this planet decides to spin backwards? As the ruler of logistical matters, Mercury retrograde will likely cause confusion in areas like communication, technology and timing. No sweat—that just means you'll have to be a little bit more mindful.
"It's important to be extra conscious when communicating with people or scheduling things," Kahn suggests. "Avoid rushing—take your time."
Since we're really supposed to be using this transit as a review process, think of the areas in life you want to switch up and how to make those goals happen.
"Anything that promotes a sense of slowing down and reflecting on things is a really good thing during Mercury retrograde because that's really what this transit is all about. It's not here to ruin our lives or relationships."
Even better? It's the ultimate time to indulge in self-care practices, so ready the bubble bath and glass of wine. (No need to tell us twice!) We also think this might be a good time for a pedicure or perhaps a facial—why not, right? If nothing else, let this be your excuse to indulge. (We knew Mercury wasn't all bad!)
Tips for Mercury retrograde 2022 #3
Regarding relationships, a big focus of September 2022—and 2022 in general—Mercury will force us to think about the ways in which we interact and perhaps how we'd like to change things in our relationships, romantic or otherwise, during its September happening. (But again—no need to worry!)
With the event's start in Libra, which focuses on relationships, it'll be about keeping our mouths shut and listening to others' perspectives. Yes, this might seem less than ideal, but it'll be a way in which to take other ideas into consideration and not be one-sided when communicating. When Mercury goes retrograde in Virgo, it'll be about negotiating fairly and constructively.
"Libra is about understanding the other it’s really wanting us to slow down and introspect our own projection or how we project ourselves onto other people," Noush says. "Is there a way to communicate to our partner. Is there a way that we can better understand them? Is there a way we can show that empathy? Open the door for a different type of communication."
Items to help Mercury retrograde effects
If you were looking for an excuse to stock up on wellness gifts, you're welcome. See, Mercury has its benefits! Who doesn't appreciate a little shopping spree every now and then?
"I personally love to light candles and relax, take a bath, try to get my mind off all the logistical stresses and just take a moment to stay present," Kahn says.
She's also a big fan of writing things down during this transit.
"I think journaling is a really helpful tool," she adds. "Buying a pretty journal is a really awesome way to promote some self-reflection."
If you were thinking about upping your crystal game, now's the ideal time. We spoke with Noush about the best crystals for Mercury retrograde, of which there are plenty—but there's one in particular she fancies.
"One of the crystals I seem to be drawn to for communication would be amethyst," Noush says. "It'll help you have a clearer understanding of your deeper thoughts so that maybe you can communicate with a little bit more calm or patience."
Given that this is a big theme of Mercury retrograde round 3, perhaps it's time to find a gemstone or bracelet with hints of amethyst. Be sure to also take a look at our go-to crystals for anxiety and crystals for good luck while you're at it as well. We're all in favor of preparedness.
Yes, this tiny planet might get a bad rep, but that doesn't mean it's going to make your life miserable. Think of it as a way to put you on the proper path.
"It's just a process of realignment that's just necessary to cleanse our minds and thoughts so that we can feel a bit more at ease again," Noush says.
Mercury, we're ready for ya! You and your hype don't scare us in the slightest!
For more insight into what's happening amongst the cosmos, have a look at our 2022 retrograde calendar. We promise there is a method to the celestially madness, so don't get too absorbed in the negativity. You've got this!
