During a Mercury retrograde period, it’s important to be extremely careful with our language. Triple-check every text, email, and DM, and take the time to carefully explain your intentions. Typos and Freudian slips are bound to happen. Decision-making skills may also be muddled, so avoid signing any major contracts during this period (although, if you must, be sure to thoroughly read the fine print). When it comes to technology, Mercury retrograde may be to blame for any massive electronic meltdowns, so it’s advisable to not buy any new gadgets for the next three weeks (or if you do, make sure they come with a warranty). And if you’re going to travel, build in time for delays, cancellations, and wrong turns.
Last, but certainly not least, we can always expect people from the past — including former lovers — to reemerge during Mercury retrograde. In many cases, it’s best to kindly decline unexpected coffee invites and “innocent” proposals to grab drinks.
What are the dates for Mercury retrograde in 2022?
There are four Mercury retrograde cycles in 2022. They are:
January 14 to February 3: The pre-retrograde shadow begins December 29, 2021, post-retrograde shadow ends February 23.
May 10 to June 3: The pre-retrograde shadow begins April 25, post-retrograde shadow ends June 18.
September 9 to October 2: The pre-retrograde shadow begins August 22, post-retrograde shadow ends October 16.
December 29 to January 18, 2023: The pre-retrograde shadow begins December 12, post-retrograde shadow ends February 23, 2023.
How can I survive Mercury retrograde?
Surviving Mercury retrograde is pretty simple: Remember to proofread everything, choose your words carefully, avoid signing contracts (or review them extra diligently), back up your data, and plan for travel mishaps. The truth, cosmic warrior, is that Mercury retrograde isn’t all bad; in fact, it can serve as your quarterly self-assessment. How prepared are you for inconveniences? How’s your self-care routine when things go awry? Although Mercury retrograde isn’t a great time to make huge changes, it is ideal for reflection.
A central theme surrounding the first Mercury retrograde of the year, which starts on Friday, January 14, is staying on top of correspondence, especially with close friends and family. The unique spirit of Aquarius fuels this retrograde. This humanitarian sign, which innovative Uranus rules, also has an aloof nature and can forget to text or call back. When the communication planet goes backward, we’re more likely to space out and fail to respond to an important email or leave a lover hanging. However, Mercury is happy in this sign. The logical and intellectual air sign nature of Aquarius will help us step back and stay calm during any communication mishaps. When Mercury retrograde moves into hardworking Capricorn, ruled by strict Saturn, on Tuesday, January 25, your job is to keep on top of professional communication. If you must sign a business-related contract during this time, consider having a second party like a lawyer or trusted associate double-check it as well.
This summer’s Mercury retrograde begins in Gemini, starting on Tuesday, May 10. Since Mercury is Gemini’s ruling planet, this retrograde will be more intense than others, especially for those with heavy Gemini placements in their charts. Gemini is an epic flirt, so not only does this retrograde signal a return of the exes, but we might even sext the wrong person. Don’t let the retrograde brain fog get to you. Take deep breaths, meditate, and focus on your healthy relationships in the present. When Mercury retrograde leaves Gemini and enters sensual Taurus, ruled by lovely Venus, on Sunday, May 22, you will feel more relaxed and have an easier time putting down your phone and leaning into bubble baths and guilt-free naps. When this retrograde ends on Friday, June 3, you’ll be ready to jump back into bed with your current partner or favorite sex toy without worrying about an old flame blowing up your phone.