Several times each year, it appears from Earth that the planet Mercury’s movement goes backwards in its orbit around the Sun. This is what a retrograde motion is, and with the planet Mercury, it happens about three or four times a year, for around three weeks each time.

All planets’ retrogrades have important astrological implications. Because Mercury is the planet of communication, technology, business endeavors, and travel, when it is in this retrograde period, those matters can go a bit haywire.

The most turbulence can occur when slowing down and switching directions, like today. (Please remember — this is not actually happening to Mercury’s orbit! It’s from our perspective on Earth). Like a car changing gears, the transition period can be the most chaotic. Mercury stations retrograde at 7:15 tonight (Eastern time).

Plan ahead by backing up your computer and tech devices, double-check travel plans, triple check before you hit “Send,” pad extra time for delays, and do your best to stay calm and organized. With this being one of the busiest times of the year for vacation trips, slow down, take your time, and double check essentials.

Also pack plenty of patience – there is a lot of antsy Mars aggression in the air, so keep a cool head.

Mercury retrograde is not the best time to sign contracts, start a new enterprise or agreement, or have off-the-cuff conversations of any importance. If you simply must, scrutinize every detail slowly and carefully.

This Is NOT the End of the World!

It’s slowly becoming a kind of urban legend that Mercury retrograde is by definition a disaster.

It’s not all bad, not by a long shot! Mercury retrograde is a perfect and usually much-needed time for taking a break from our go-go-go lifestyle.

It’s wonderful for reviewing past endeavors, reflecting, and slowing down the pace. At this just about half-way point of the year, it’s a brilliant time to consider how your plans for 2019 might need some tweaking and reassessing.

And everybody needs a media break once in a while. Maybe take some time away from the screens and chill.

Mercury will station direct again July 31, 11:58pm (Eastern time). Till then, mind your words and watch your step.