Whether you’re someone who is known for asking for a person’s exact time and place of birth within five minutes of meeting them or you have been asked those questions and have absolutely no idea why a stranger at the bar would need that information, you’ve most likely heard of the phenomenon known as Mercury retrograde, along with the mayhem that is said to accompany it. This strange event, often dreaded by astrologers, refers to an optical illusion in which Mercury appears to move backward in its orbit in relation to Earth. Astronomers call it “apparent retrograde motion,” and it’s not exclusive to the planet Mercury. To astrologers, however, every last one of Mercury’s periods of retrograde causes inexplicable mishaps and tribulations. So if you’re someone who is fiercely determined to avoid as many obstacles sent down by the universe as possible, you’ll want to know exactly when you should be on the lookout for these planetary changes in the year 2022.
According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, Mercury went into apparent retrograde three times in 2021, which is one period of retrograde fewer than what is expected for 2022. In 2022, Mercury’s first period of retrograde begins on Jan. 14 and ends Feb. 3, according to Astrology Zone. The second period of retrograde will last from May 10 to June 2, and the third will begin on Sept. 9 and last through Oct. 2. As a special treat to ring in the new year, the final Mercury retrograde of 2022 will begin on Dec. 29 and end Jan. 18, 2023. Based on all these periods of retrograde, it seems like 2022 will be a year full of unexpected events – so what exactly should you do to avoid trouble during these times when Mercury appears to be doing the moonwalk?
Since Mercury is known by astrologers as the planet that rules all types of communication, it is important to be aware of what you are saying and writing during these times. Whenever Mercury is in retrograde, make sure to double or triple check all forms of written communication, from emails to projects to text messages. The Old Farmer’s Almanac also warns that it might be wise to avoid signing any contracts during this time. Overall, being extra patient and flexible with timing and communication during these periods of retrograde will make any inconvenience feel a little less troubling, whether or not the planets have anything to do with it.
