2021’s First Retrograde Is Approaching–– Here’s How to Handle Mercury’s Movements
Take a deep breath and exhale with these tips
Written by Jake Levyns
image courtesy of @shytheartist__
If you were a regular curator of memes over the course of last year, chances are you’ve probably seen a few that mentioned something about the results of the coming Mercury retrograde. The internet (us included) loves to joke about all the good, bad and ugly affects this planet's motion change brings. But all jokes aside, there’s actually a very specific science that uncovers the three times a year when the planet Mercury goes into a retrograde shift, or a reverse revolution around the Sun. This glitch in the matrix, causes unusual changes to our ability to carry out routine tasks, especially during two periods known as Pre- and Post-Retrograde, a period of weeks when the planet slows down or slightly regains traction before and after it changes direction. While there is a lot of doublespeak associated with horoscopes, there are many benefits to knowing the planet alignments and how they affect zodiac readings. With the first one of 2021 quickly approaching, consider these tips to make the most of this uncertain event and hold tight to every bit of your routine as you can.
Retrograde 1: January 30 - February 19
Tip: Fill your schedule with what is familiar.
If thinking of this event in astrological terms confuses you, the Mercury retrograde can be treated as an opportunity for mental reorientation. To keep you from falling into the pit of overthinking what can be done, start small by holding yourself accountable to your obligations, thus keeping you busy and weeding out possible distractions. Being surrounded by familiarity is the key to being ahead of the curve.
Retrograde Two: May 31 - June 21
Tip: Reconsider what brings joy to your life.
When you’re in the midst of a moment that brings a chance for self-reflection, it’s easier to think more about what you don’t have than what you do. This can make us turn inward and feel less grateful for the chances we’ve had to do more, but that doesn’t always have to be a bad thing. In the coming year, when you feel at your capacity for being open-minded, remember what you still have to prove, as well as the room you have to grow, then put it into practice.
Retrograde Three: September 28 - October 16
Tip: Give yourself something to look forward to.
Should you be planning your 2021 calendar, or even if you haven’t gotten that far, if there’s one thing you can do for yourself at any point, you’ll be glad you did. After all, the whole point of realigning with your needs in this way is being able to leave room to just do you. Whether it’s as small as treating yourself to something fun or a bigger, more personal expense, there’s no cap on what can make you happy when you’re tuned in to the immediate present.
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