Ah yup, this is just what you want to hear – another Mercury retrograde is here! Thankfully, we have some advice on how to get through this cosmic churn.
Ok guys, it’s that time again… Mercury retrograde time. Last year was a doozy with three retrogrades, and it’s more of the same in 2024 with three of the topsy-turvy planetary transits.
Mercury retrograde is often spoken about with a tone of fear – and fair play too because she can be a little bitch.
It’s responsible for lapses in communication, technology and general craziness, and this year the first two retrogrades are happening in earth signs, which encourages us to look at earthy matters and grounding situations.
If you’re not sure what Mercury in retrograde means, it’s the term we give when it appears a planet is moving backwards in the night sky (it’s not, but it looks that way from Earth). As we’ve said before, it’s sure-fire sign things are about to get a bit wonky, and it’s usually a time for a little duck-and-cover. Mercury is the planet that rules communication, thinking, technology, so when it’s going backwards, communication falters. Messages are misunderstood, signs go unnoticed, conversations go misinterpreted and technology, which barely works for me at the best of times, refuses to play ball.
We asked spiritual advisor Gaia Chinniah for her advice on getting through the first Mercury Retrograde from April 1 – April 25 this year:
“As the universe continues to shift and move, we find ourselves once again on the brink of Mercury retrograde – a phase known for cosmic mischief that can either throw a spanner in our plans or offer an unexpected cosmic realignment. We like to be positive about it and work with the energy rather than against it. In April, Mercury will take its reverse journey through the impulsive fire sign of Aries, bringing both challenges and opportunities for growth. This is an introspective energy that this planetary event brings and we can navigate its influence with grace.
What is Mercury Retrograde?
“Mercury retrograde is a well-known astrological phase, notorious for its knack to disrupt communication and everyday activities. However, it’s not just about chaos; it’s a cosmic invitation to reassess, realign, rejuvenate and reevaluate. The illusion of Mercury moving backward introduces a period when communication may slow down or become a bit delayed, prompting a reevaluation of plans and intentions. This is well timed for the fourth month of the year as we still have time to get back to or to stay on track for the rest of the year ahead.
Mercury Retrograde in Aries – The Cosmic Reset:
Mercury retrograde, spanning from April 1 to April 25 this year, initiates a dynamic and action-oriented influence. There is an energy of needing to ‘act first, think later’ vibe, prompting a reset in areas where you’ve been impulsive. This phase affects your appearance, reputation, and how you express yourself. It’s a call to reconsider any hasty decisions and apologise for any past conflicts, fostering understanding and reconciliation. Team dynamics may face challenges, requiring humility to backtrack without fear of losing face.
Events, plans, and communication could face disruptions, so it’s important to emphasise the need for patience and less reactivity this month. Impulsiveness may pose challenges, particularly for those who tend to break the rules. Stay on track using your skills that you have and appoint others to do what you need help with or to avoid unexpected consequences. It’s not the ideal time for a drastic makeover, encouraging a return to a more natural, authentic self. The power of your independence!
The Positive Shift
There is a positive shift, and it encourages a move from impulsivity to thoughtful consideration, to make us pause and reassess what and who we are loyal to. The emphasis is on mindful communication, promoting kindness and empathy in all interactions. By the end of the post-shadow phase on May 13, a newfound outlook and enhanced social skills, marked by calmness and empathy, may emerge.
Navigating Mercury Retrograde Overall
As Mercury retrograde unfolds, frustration levels may rise, especially when you are wanting forward-moving energy. Communication becomes crucial, requiring careful consideration of words and tones to avoid misunderstandings and checking our written communications a few times, perhaps even getting another set of eyes on messages that can be misconstrued. Patience is key during this period.
Flexibility, patience, and understanding are essential mantras at this time. Allow extra time for travel. Reflect on where you’re directing your energy, ensuring a balanced focus on various aspects of your life. Though life doesn’t come to a halt, planning ahead, having backup plans, and embracing flexibility can really help feel like we are in control.
Mercury retrograde offers a valuable opportunity for reflection. Use this time to re-analyse your goals. Consider reviewing your energy distribution and maintaining balance between different life aspects. Remember, pause, take a breath and respond with active consideration rather than from a place of thoughtless reactivity and you’ll be just fine!
QUICK CHECKLIST FOR THIS MERCURY RETROGRADE
- Don’t start new things where you are riding on an outcome. Instead, start creative projects that are gradual and where you can see results without pressure of expectations.
- Think before you speak or write. Be clear in the mind before you say anything. Consider going over any written communication or planned verbal communication with someone you trust to ensure that what you are saying makes sense and is fair on the other person also.
- Do a stocktake of your life! What is there that you want to keep and grow? What do you want to get rid of because it no longer serves you?
- Remember – slow and steady wins the race this retrograde!
Gaia is an internationally known healer, medium and spiritual coach. She founded Soul 33 a healing company and the modality of Soul Progression Therapy when she had an awakening at the age of 33. She channels messages from spirit guides, uses energy healing and is able to speak to your soul and see your past lives. Gaia has a Masters in Management Studies, is a Reiki Master and has a qualification from Omega Institute New York in Past Life Regression Therapy. Each month Gaia provides a monthly forecast of how you can use the energy to plan, manifest and heal your life.
www.soul33.com for her Spiritual Guidance app search ‘Soul33’ on your app store.
