Have people been taking what you say the wrong way? Has anyone misinterpreted your texts, emails or everyday communication and responded in an inappropriate manner? Are communication breakdowns causing you to spinout mentally and respond emotionally by feeling upset, frustrated or annoyed? Don’t worry you are not alone.

The third Mercury Retrograde cycle begins today and will last from October 4th until October 25th. When you think things are going swimmingly with your relationships and all is well in the universe, Mercury Retrograde likes to step in and show you who’s boss. Mercury will let you know you don’t have as much control as you think you do. People will also step in and challenge you in kinds of ways showing you their unsavory side as they initiate and participate in poor communication cycles like gossip, slander and conflict  that cause you to feel sad, angry or even paranoid. Don’t let yourself be sucked in. Stop the madness!

How does the Mercury Retrograde cycle affect you?

It’s different for every person and some people feel the effect of the Mercury Retrograde cycle more strongly than others, but if you have noticed some weaknesses with your communication with others, a proactive person might spend some time thinking about the nature of action, reaction, and overreaction. If you find yourself overreacting or even find that you are working out the shadow side of your personality with people who simply don’t deserve it, it is time to take a step back and rethink your communication strategy.

How can you have a better experience during the Mercury Retrograde cycle?

Disengage if someone tries to prove a point using poor communication. Refuse to participate in what I refer to as the “Mercury Retrograde Domino Effect” (MRDE). Your response is key with poor communication: if you don’t obsess, overreact or become paranoid about what is said you will not be able to pass that energy onto other members of your community.

Ignore snarky comments that are not in the spirit of fun and good humor. Enough said.

Keep emails and texts sparse and to the point. Also, double-check that people are receiving important correspondence. Electronic communication often fail during this cycle. So, if you have something important to communicate make sure the information is received.

Take responsibility for your actions. If you let the shadow side of your personality take over, don’t blame it on Mercury Retrograde, say you are sorry and move on.

Assume your friends and associates do not intend ill will. Be gentle with your communication. Nothing is irreparable.

Ground your energy. When you are caught up in communication that affects the head and the heart, it’s time to go within and focus on healthy routines that get you out of your mind and balance the body. Start an exercise routine. Focus on making regular meals. Walk in nature. Paint a picture. Slow down and bring some balance in.

The ultimate challenge is to go with the flow. Ride the wave, don’t try to control it.

If you want to learn more about how to navigate communication during the Mercury Retrograde cycle come find me at one of my Portland residencies and we will explore the topic in greater detail.

Sunday, October 5th and Sunday, October 12 from 1 till 4: Flutter

Mondays from 6 till 9: Night LIght Lounge

Tuesdays from 6 till 9: Corkscrew Wine Bar

Wednesdays from 6 till 9: What’s Upstairs