This is our regular feature that we run whenever Mercury goes into retrograde.

This retrograde period takes place from June 7th to July 1st, 2014 and is happening in the signs of Cancer and Gemini. Today as I was contemplating writing this post I kept hearing, “Back up your computers!” So if you haven’t backed up your computer in a while, please do so. You may never need it, but if something happens, you’ll be happy to took the time.

The past few weeks have been deeply introspective. My lightworker friends and I have been talking about how we’ve been feeling fatigued, overloaded and very emotional. Something from deep within is being brought to the surface in service to healing and transformation.  If you feel like you need rest, be sure to take time for yourself. This is not the time to let yourself get worn down. Rather, focus on nurturing and nourishing yourself. Use this time to contemplate your intentions and beliefs. You have been on a journey of self-discovery and this is a wonderful time to reflect upon the path you’ve traveled. You should feel proud of where you are now. Acknowledge your courage and willingness to go within and allow the healing energies assist you in deepening your connection with your authentic self.

As for the next three weeks – I try not to be superstitious about this stuff, but it does seem as if Mercury Retrograde kicks things up a bit. So I send you this in service to supporting you on your journey…

Here is a Mercury Retrograde Survival Guide to help you navigate the next three weeks.

Mercury Retrograde is sometimes steeped in dogma and a bit of wariness for people. So I’ll start off with the reminder that we are the greatest source of influence in our lives. We are wise and powerful beings and we can choose into the stream of energies that we desire.

Over the years, however, I’ve noticed themes that tend to arise during this transit. Think of it in the same way as you consider the energies of the full moon.

So what the heck does Mercury in Retrograde mean?

Well, in astrology, the planets progress forward through the signs. Taurus gives way to Gemini which moves into Cancer, etc. There is a forward progression. During a retrograde period, the planet seems to lose ground and goes “backwards.” When this happens, it typically creates not-so-positive influences in the areas that it rules.

Mercury rules communication & electronics. When Mercury goes into retrograde it has the potential to slow things to a crawl, make communications challenging, cause electronics to freak out, etc. I usually experience it a bit like walking through mud. Things seem to move slowly. I can’t always get a grip on moving things forward. My thinking sometimes feels a bit fuzzy. And communications can be a bit challenging.  But it’s not all bad — during the retrograde period, you may find yourself reconnecting with old friends, going through old boxes of photos and walking down memory lane.  It’s a great time for cleaning out closets, re-reading old journals and releasing that which no longer serves you.

Think of it as a turbo boost for clearing the past and maybe not-so-great for moving forward.

But don’t get superstitious about it. You can have grace and ease at all times.

But, if you’re seeking some ideas for how best to surf this energy, hopefully these tips will help.

11 Tips for Gracefully Navigating Mercury Retrograde

1. If things don’t seem to be moving forward, don’t worry. It’s likely the retrograde energy. Things will pick up again towards mid-November.
2. It’s not the best time to start something new as things “born” during the retrograde energy often need to be recreated again. If you can, hold off signing contracts, important letters and other agreements during this time. If you do have to keep things moving forward surround everything with light and ask that the retrograde energy be cleared.
3. If people don’t return your emails or phone calls don’t take it personally. Mercury retrograde is a bit like having a communications gremlin taking delight in mis-routing messages.
4. If people misinterpret your words, intentions and actions – again, don’t take it personally.
5. Take extra good care of your computer & car. Back up all your data (I love Mozy, myself). Check your oil in your car and do all those things we’re supposed to do anyways to care for our electronics. They’ll appreciate the extra TLC right now.
6. It is a powerful time to revisit the past. Clean out a closet, go through photos, call an old friend. All of these kinds of activities are terrific ways to use the retrograde energy.
7. Do a releasing ceremony. Are there old patterns, hurts or beliefs that you’re ready to let go? As these are based in “old” energy – the retrograde is a powerful time to declare them complete
8. Consider scheduling a Reiki session or massage with a good practitioner to help you keep balanced.
9. Do a space clearing on your home – this can be as easy as opening your windows and doors and letting the outside come in and swirl about for a bit.
10. Bless your space. Invite the angels into your home and ask them to create a “love bubble” around your home so that you & your family are bathed in love.
11. Stretch your wings and try a new adventure. Retrograde energy can sometimes keep us rooted in the past. Shake things up by bringing new & fun experiences into your life.

…and finally, if you don’t want to buy into any of this, employ your co-creative mojo, and visualize the next three weeks as being the best weeks that you’ve had so far this year. Create a vibrant and wonderful energy field around you and declare that grace is with you in all things! After all, you are a powerful creator and you greatly influence your experiences of the world.