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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at TCNJ chapter.

What is mercury in retrograde? 

Mercury in retrograde happens when Mercury appears to travel backward in its orbit from our perspective on Earth.  We can expect Mercury to be in retrograde three or four times a year. Mercury in retrograde can affect all of the signs differently, as well. All the planets are in retrograde at some point, but Mercury goes in and out of retrograde more frequently than the others – and in astrology, the planets that are closer to the sun have a strong influence on our day-to-day lives than the outer planets. From an astrological standpoint, it is during these times that people may feel confusion, frustration, and delays. 

Okay, mark your calendars. The dates for Mercury retrograde in 2020 are: 

June 18-July 12, in Cancer 

October 13-November 3, in Scorpio (until October 27) and Libra 

What to Do When Mercury is in Retrograde 

According to Almanac.com, the planet Mercury rules communication (including technology), travel, contracts, automobiles, and emotions (https://www.almanac.com/content/mercury-retrograde-dates). Since you’ll be dealing with all of these emotions and communication struggles, you won’t be getting the best sleep of your life. Bustle.com has a great article on the impacts of Pisces season and mercury in retrograde on your sleep and states, “It’s possible that during the retrograde period, you’ll feel more stressed and anxious than you usually do, and that can definitely have a negative impact on your sleeping patterns.” Additionally, on the dates that Mercury is in retrograde, astrologers will suggest you try to avoid making any major commitments, such as signing a lease or beginning long-distance travel. If you do end up making big changes during Mercury in retrograde, just be mindful! In fact, this infamous period can even be a time of growth. 

Mercury Retrograde and the Zodiac Signs 

The type of influence you feel depends on which of the 12 zodiac signs Earth is in when Mercury goes retrograde. And while everyone will notice retrogrades, some people could experience stronger effects than others, depending on their birth charts. 

 

Camille Germo is a senior undergraduate psychology major with a minor in Spanish at The College of New Jersey. She hopes to become a child therapist in the future. During her free time, she enjoys reading books, watching films, and taking photos.
President of HCTCNJ, Panhellenic Delegate for AXiD, Communications Major with Marketing/Management Minors!