Astrology fans will be well aware that as sure as the sun will rise, so too will there be Mercury retrogrades coming to play havoc with our lives.
In case you were wondering, Mercury retrograde is likely responsible for that weird urge you have to reconnect with your ex, those technological issues you’re facing and perhaps even that brain fuzz you’re experiencing when it comes to making decisions and plans.
But its effects aren’t just limited to your mental state. Yep, it even extends to your physical state as well — fun! Everything from your energy levels to your skin may feel the effects of the changing astrological landscape and its ensuing energy.
With a new Mercury retrograde upon us, here’s everything to know about how one impacts your body, energy and mood (and how to deal with it).
How Mercury Retrograde Affects Your Energy Levels
Expect to have more or less energy than you’re used to, particularly of the nervous variety. will either sap you of your usual zest and leave you feeling lethargic, or fill you with chaotic, scattered energy that might have you feeling restless, unfocused and anxious.
According to astrologer Helen Frost, how you channel said energy during Mercury retrograde is pivotal.
“The body will inevitably be holding all this volatile energy which can be super creative, great for dance, for sport and creative inspiration,” Frost told Bustle.
“However it can be a challenging few weeks emotionally, and it would be easy to misdirect this energy which could have unpredictable and serious repercussions.”
On the flip side, that lethargic feeling could leave you wanting to skip your circuit workout and sleep all day.
The best advice? Stick to your daily routine as closely as possible, channel excess energy into exercise or creative pursuits and don’t make any major life decisions when you’re feeling low or anxious.
How Mercury Retrograde Can Affect Your Skin
The stress and upheaval of this time is likely to show on your skin, which means it’s high time to invest in some self-care.
Whether it’s real or just your perception, you might feel that your skin looks dull and grey, and that things like fine lines or under-eye circles are more prominent.
Regardless of what your skin concerns are, whip out that cooling jade roller and your favourite serum and spend some meditative time restoring hydration and plumpness to your complexion.
How Mercury Retrograde Can Affect Your Diet
One of the first places anxiety, stress or nervous energy can affect is the gut. If you’re encountering some mental or emotional turmoil, chances are your stomach will follow suit and become far more sensitive than usual.
You might feel the urge to eat more than normal to compensate for their exhaustion or stress.
Comfort foods like pizza and pasta will be front of mind but try to avoid excessive sugar, caffeine or alcohol that could play havoc on your already anxious state. Make sure you’re loading up on veggies, fruit, whole grains and satiating proteins to keep you full and energised, but balanced.
And finally, as with all periods of stress and turmoil, prioritising your mental health is key, so choose to do things you know serve you well, whether that’s a leisurely outdoor walk with your friends, following a yoga session on YouTube, a healthy brunch date or an extra-long Sunday sleep-in.
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