This fall’s Mercury retrograde happens from September 27th to October 18th. In this article, I will share with you some important information about this period and some tips on how to make Mercury retrograde in Libra a harmonious and peaceful time for you.
What Is Mercury Retrograde?
Retrograde is a special type of movement of the planet, when from the Earth it seems to us that it’s going backward, although the planet simply changes direction relative to the Sun. All planets periodically become retrograde. For some, it happens every few months or every few years. But Mercury is usually the record holder in this “marathon”: a retrograde period occurs on average 3-4 times a year.
Mercury is the only planet whose retrograde effect is felt by most people on Earth. It is believed that during the retrograde period, Mercury has a detrimental effect on people, but if you properly use the energy of this period, you can benefit from it.
Mercury is the planet of contacts, contracts, information, intellectual activity, communication, and commerce. It is associated with travel and transport, negotiations, training, and signing documents. Mercury is responsible for memory, speech, oratory, logic, and intelligence. Therefore, its retrograde movement may negatively affect all the above.
You may feel this retrograde period in different ways, here are some of its effects:
- exposed secrets;
- arisen scandals;
- frequent anxiety;
- gatherings are prone to turning into gossiping;
- restlessness;
- misunderstandings within relationships;
- delays;
- obstacles;
- mistakes, etc.
Mercury Retrograde In Libra
Mercury goes retrograde in the lunar mansion of Chitra nakshatra from September 27th, starting in the sign of Libra and then back into Virgo by October 2nd, before turning direct on October 18th.
Chitra nakshatra is the Mars-ruled nakshatra that is also known as “the star of opportunity”. This nakshatra is marked by the bright star Spica, venerated throughout many ancient world cultures. Its luminance earned it the title ‘stunning pearl’ – suspended in heaven. Like the hidden wealth of gemstone, Chitra is adept at revealing hidden beauty, coaxing the dull and ordinary into revealing their splendor. Like a pearl, its shell must be opened to reveal its beauty. Therefore, Chitra is said to rule over all acts of transformation and to reflect the world of Maya and delusions, which must be overcome. Chitra is one of the most mystical nakshatras of all, giving spiritual depth with sudden flashes of insight.
Those working on creative ideas (especially related to writing or arts) are going to be supported by the energy of Chitra nakshatra. A small message may turn into a fully-formed article or even a book. Studying a new subject may lead you all the way into a new specialty. Chitra nakshatra will give you discipline and original thought in your research and will give you the inspiration to re-think and edit your writing and get it all down in a smooth and presentable form. This nakshatra encourages us to think bigger and bolder and find new ways to make the world a more beautiful place.
As it reverses back into Virgo, Mercury joins dynamic Mars and gives you an assertive voice in the debate, along with the ability to campaign. This coming-together peaks on October 10th, in Hasta nakshatra.
Hasta nakshatra is the Moon-ruled nakshatra that is symbolized by an open hand. This nakshatra brings business success and charm, but an eventual fall from favor. Hasta nakshatra gives people a strong desire to coerce, heal, and trick. It also increases the mercantile qualities of people. Under the influence of this nakshatra, people will experience highs and lows, like every day there is a new challenge, and every turn of the page brings something new and unexpected. However, Hasta nakshatra also gives people a highly adaptive nature and an opportunity to turn a potential setback into an opportunity, reaping benefits from the most unlikely places.
Though you may be under pressure to give an answer or make a decision, keep your patience and wait for the right time to do it. Don’t make any important decisions during this time, especially related to finances and health. Wait until this period pass and you can see more clearly what people’s agenda is.
Don’t be afraid to defer judgment, even if an offer appears too good to miss. You see, details usually emerge after the end of a retrograde period that you couldn’t possibly have known at the outset.
Mercury also receives the influence of expansive Jupiter after October 2nd. At this point, your thinking takes on a broader and more optimistic tone which will help you to express even an uncomfortable truth in a positive way.
As you can see, this is a pretty positive retrograde because Mercury feels good in Libra. Then it goes in Virgo where it’s exalted.
This Mercury retrograde is good for listening, reflecting, repairing relationships, solving past problems with miscommunication, reaching out to others, and reconnecting.
The Dos During Mercury Retrograde
So, in the period of Mercury retrograde in Libra, the following actions will be favorable:-
#1: Finish things
If you want something new to happen in your life, make room for it, finish things before moving forward. Think about how many things you need to finish, delegate, or get rid of before you can move on and bring new relationships, abundance, and wealth into your life. This period is perfect for finishing old relationships, getting rid of toxic people, sorting out your feelings and emotions. You can also quit your old job.
#2: Deal with unfinished and running projects and documents
You can finish the article, or finish the book you’re working on. It is good to restore order, throw away all unnecessary papers, archives, and media.
#3: Meet with friends
This is a good time to meet with friends and family members you haven’t seen in a long time. If you had some miscommunication problems in the past, it’s time to solve them. Reaching out and reconnecting with people you haven’t been talking to for a while is very beneficial during this time.
#4: Analyze your mental attitudes
Pay attention to how your thoughts and attitude shape your reality. Think about – what thoughts you can let go of to improve your life? Are there any mental programs, blocks, or stereotypes that prevent you from reaching your goals? Well, now it’s the perfect time to let them go.
#5: Engage in spiritual practice
This is the time when we all need to focus more on our spiritual journey. Meditate, purify and calm your mind, chant mantras, pray and work with positive affirmations.
The Don’ts During Mercury Retrograde
During periods of retrograde, all Mercurian affairs develop slowly, there is often confusion, the risk of mistakes increases. New projects are slowed down, transport, and mail services are disrupted. It is more difficult to study and engage in intellectual work, to conduct negotiations. During such periods, equipment breaks down more often, and communication operators have problems with their work. Therefore, take note of what is still better not to do in this period to avoid trouble:-
#1: Making purchases
Especially it is better not to make any big purchases, because later you may be disappointed. For example, you may find hidden defects in the things you buy.
#2: Signing contracts, making transactions, opening a business, and starting a project
During Mercury retrograde, there is a very high probability of making mistakes. Therefore, it’s not recommended to sign contracts, make transactions, open a business, or start a new project during this period.
#3: Getting a new job
Those getting new jobs during the retrograde period are usually disappointed with their jobs later. You may not be satisfied with the conditions, some additional information may open some disadvantages or difficulties the job has, etc.
#4: Making important decisions
Later you most likely will regret such decisions. They may bring you more trouble than satisfaction.
#5: Starting a training or course
If you start a training or take a course during the retrograde period, the study may appear to be more difficult than you expected or the knowledge gained may not be useful.
#6: Making big purchases
Anything you buy during Mercury retrograde has a chance to disappoint you in some way. Don’t buy real estate, cars, or anything that requires big money being paid. Most likely, such purchases will not be useful, or will be unnecessary in the future, or will break down.
#7: Borrowing money
If you borrow money during Mercury retrograde, it may be difficult to pay this money back.
#8: Starting a new relationship
Relationships started during the retrograde period will not be long-lasting and will not become serious.
#9: Moving, buying real estate, signing the rent
Any operations with real estate will face delays and obstacles. Therefore, it’s better to postpone moving, buying real estate, or signing the rent.
Spiritual Practices
Here are some spiritual tools that will help you make this Mercury retrograde in Libra a good period for you.
#1: Mercury Mantra
To neutralize the negative influence of Mercury retrograde on your life, chant the Mercury mantra 108 times daily:
Om Namo Bhagvate Vasudevaya Namah
Chanting this powerful mantra gives:
- invincible self-confidence;
- astonishing concentration power;
- laudable intelligence;
- commendable communication;
- business skills;
- calmness and peace;
- wisdom;
- knowledge;
- enlightenment.
#2: Gemstones
To pacify the effect of Mercury retrograde, you can wear gemstones throughout this period.
Emerald is Mercury’s primary gem! It is the closest in representing Mercury through its crystalline structure that helps distribute Mercury’s cosmic rays that the planet emanates. Wearing emerald can help balance the influence of the planet and re-establish balance and harmony in your energetic field and mitigate difficulties cause by the retrograde period.
Jade can be used as a valid substitute for an emerald when working with Mercury gems.
Peridot can be used to strengthen relationships and connections. This stone pacifies retrograde Mercury and balances your life. It can be worn for health in general and to increase wealth and happiness in life.
Aventurine is connected to Mercury and is known as a lucky stone. It is great for overall health and well-being. Aventurine can be used to regulate pitta dosha in Ayurveda and is connected to Anahata Chakra.
#3: Yantra
Mercury Yantra (also called Buddha Yantra) helps to decrease the negative impacts of Mercury. This yantra also:
- helps to boost intellect;
- improves studying abilities;
- helps in personal development;
- improves memory;
- helps to develop oratory and communicative abilities;
- attracts success;
- improves the financial situation, etc.
Display the Buddha Yantra in the North sector of your house and chant the Mercury mantra 108 times while looking in the center of the Yantra. Perform this practice daily or, at least, every Wednesday.
The Bottom Line
Mercury retrograde in Libra is part of the natural cycle intended to be a time of reflecting and re-doing things that need our attention. This is the time to slow down, reflect, and listen to our voice within. In our fast-paced world, it can feel like a punishment but, truthfully, it can be a blessing. Mercury retrograde offers us a beautiful opportunity to tidy up, chill out, and get crystal clear on exactly what we need to do to further align with our highest purpose.