Tarot guide to the Do's and Don'ts of Mercury Retrograde ☿

Mercury, the lightning quick planet of communication, technology and travel stations retrograde and appears to move backwards in the sky 3/4 times each year.

It can feel like wading through treacle as the agile, forward-moving energy we usually experience with Mercury grinds to a halt. Travel delays or cancellations are common as are tech issues, a lack of mental clarity and miscommunications, particularly at work or with siblings and neighbours, both of which come under Mercury’s domain.

As always Tarot’s got plenty to say to help us with these sticky patches so here’s my guide to the do’s and don’ts of Mercury RX!

Top Row L-R

Knight of Swords - represents pure Air energy and Gemini which is ruled by Mercury and where he spends the first 12 days of the current retrograde.

☿ DO think before you speak and act, allow any mental fog to clear before proceeding.

☿ DON’T make any sudden or drastic decisions, overanalyse or jump to conclusions.

Nine of Wands - the element of fire and our passions, ambitions and energy

☿ DO expect delays, setbacks and cancellations and for old wounds to come to the surface.

☿ DON’T push or force things to happen or try to bring a long-running project to completion. Avoid defensiveness and paranoia.

The Fool - associated with Uranus, the higher octave of Mercury

☿ DO expect disruptions to your plans and unexpected or unpredictable turns of events. Let go of the past and trust that this too shall pass!

☿ DON’T take risks, act on impulse or try to get new projects off the ground.

Bottom Row L-R

Four of Swords - Swords are connected with the mind and the effect of mental stress on our wellbeing

☿DO ruthlessly prioritise your to-do list, order your thoughts and take time out for rest and meditation.

☿ DON’T take on new projects, overload your schedule or sign important documents

The Hermit - the card of Virgo, also ruled by Mercury

☿ DO take time out to be alone, look after your health and remember that slow and steady wins the race during Mercury RX.

☿ DON’T stress when things don’t go to plan or agree to too many social events - think JOMO rather than FOMO!

The Star - also ruled by Uranus and the card of Aquarius

☿ DO expect the unexpected, especially with technology. Allow healing and renewal to take place.

☿ DON’T force your opinions on others, get involved in other people’s battles or be too rigid and negative in your thinking.

My advice? Be prepared, be patient and repeat yourself as often as necessary.

Good luck and don’t fear the Retrograde!