Mercury Retrograde has long been known as a time of chaos, unrest and, quite simply put, problems. Issues appear to arise in the areas of communication, travel and mindset. This Mercury Retrograde, in Scorpio, runs from October 13th through November 3rd. It’s time to connect with your emotional side on a meaningful level, strengthen your intuition and become aware of toxic tendencies. These self care rituals will help you embrace growth and overcome the obstacles of Mercury retrograde.

What Exactly is Mercury Retrograde?

Mercury retrograde is a period of time when the planet appears to be moving backwards in our night sky.

This illusion is due to the fact that Earth’s orbit is longer than Mercury’s. In reality, Earth is simply speeding past Mercury at a faster rate than we usually experience. This typically occurs three times a year, lasting for several weeks each time. The phenomena is infamous for promoting feelings of chaos. But, it just doesn’t have to be that way anymore. Read more about what to expect this Mercury Retrograde here.

Self Care for Mercury Retrograde in Scorpio

Allow Mercury Retrograde to work for you with these self care rituals for balance, happiness and reflection.

1. Start a journal, even if you only write for a few minutes a day. Writing is a great way to organize your thoughts and gain perspective. Focus on forgiveness, reflection and becoming aware of toxic behaviors.
2. Surround yourself with nature. Often overlooked, Mother Earth is a natural healer helping you feel grounded, stable and connected to the source energy of the Universe. So get out of the city, go hiking, enjoy a bike ride or simply sit on the park bench and watch the leaves dancing in the wind.
3. Carry crystals. Amethyst promotes calm serenity, Lapis Lazuli is great for communication and Amazonite stimulates your intuition and brings order to chaos. Learn more about this power trio of crystals here.

4. Connect with a therapist; a licensed professional can help you work through any past or present issues you’re currently facing. Better yet, your health insurance may cover all or some of the cost. For those without coverage, some clinics offer services to help offset cost.

5. Be mindful of your words for they cannot be unsaid. This applies to family, friends, work emails, social media, etc. Take extra time to reflect before speaking, sending or posting during mercury retrograde (and anytime, really).

6. Revisit an old hobby and take some time for yourself to enjoy. 

7. Unplug from social media. With the 2020 presidential elections hanging over our heads, it’s more important than ever to take a step back and reflect. Who needs that kind of toxicity in their lives?

8. Avoid making huge decisions, if you can. Give yourself plenty of time to weight your options, get feedback and be patient.

9. Meditate. This mindful habit can allow some quiet time for introspection, help release limiting thoughts and begin healing past hurts. If you haven’t already, catch up on all the benefits of meditation!

10. Repeat positive affirmations. You may find yourself feeling more vulnerable and insecure during this time so keep it positive, mindful and loving towards yourself and others.

Mercury retrograde in Scorpio can bring up a lot of emotions. I’m going to be doing a lot of journaling + meditation for the next few weeks as well as some crafts! If you found this article valuable, share with your friends. We could use all the tips during Mercury retrograde!