How To Survive Mercury Retrograde: NYC Astrologer Explains

MIDTOWN, NY – Brace yourself: as of Monday, Mercury is in retrograde until Aug. 28, causing difficulties, obstacles, and delays of all kinds.

The astrological event, which occurs when the planet Mercury appears to move backward in its orbit – an optical illusion – happens several times each year.

In astrology, Mercury retrograde is associated with chaos, particularly in communication and travel.

To get a sense of how to survive – and thrive – Patch caught up with local astrologer Angel Eyedealism.

Retrograde Roadmap

“It’s basically a communication and transportation snafu,” Angel told Patch. “It’s not a good time to start new projects, meet new people, or buy a house or a car. And it’s definitely not a good time to purchase electronics.”

Launching a new business? Filing for divorce? Wait until September.

“Anything that’s decided or concluded during Mercury retrograde often has to be reworked down the line,” Angel cautioned. “It’s like beating your head against the wall to try to reach out to new business partners. Or if you’re getting divorced, your ex won’t sign the papers, and you’ll have to go to court like 80 times.”

If you’re considering a vacation, pick somewhere you’ve already been. Otherwise?

“Prepare for Fyre Festival 2.0,” Angel laughed.

Closer to home, what about the subway?

“Oh my god. Extra disastrous,” she replied.

How To Rock It

Retrograde doesn’t mean that you should drop everything and sequester yourself for the month.

“You still have to be practical and live life. We call it ‘red lights and green lights’ in astrology. Sometimes you proceed with caution,” she explained.

“Mercury retrograde is a great time to finish old projects,” according to Angel. “It’s also a good time to try to work things out with people who you had a misunderstanding with in the past, to reconnect with friends, or, if you’re a project ho’ like somebody I know,” she laughed, “it can be a productive time.”

Retrograde happens several times a year, and life goes on. “It’s a very frustrating, annoying time, but it doesn’t have to be,” Angel assured.

Watch Out, Gemini and Virgo

Retrogrades may be harder on some than on others. “The signs that are ruled by Mercury suffer the most: Gemini and Virgo. Those two signs in general get confused and kind of need a mental break. Oftentimes they don’t understand that, and keep pushing.”

Gemini includes those born between May 21 and June 20, and Virgo those born between Aug. 23 and Sept. 22.

That said, “nobody really does well,” Angel said.

Finally, those born during a retrograde shouldn’t despair. “They can be very confused thinkers, but also very deep thinkers,” she said.

Stepping Off The Retrograde Roller Coaster

The current retrograde concludes on Aug. 28. “Give it at least a day on either side,” Angel said.

When retrograde ends, you’ll probably know it.

“All of the sudden, things are working again, projects are moving forward, you can do new things, and it’s not a problem.”