What's happening + a recipe to go with the flow of Mercury Rx cycles.
On January 30th, Mercury, the planet of communication, logic, and critical thinking stationed retrograde in the sign of Aquarius. When a planet is retrograde, it appears to be moving backwards from our point of view on earth, and matters ruled by that planet tend to go a little wonky. This retrograde cycle will last until February 20th, but some effects will be felt until it leaves its retrograde shadow on March 13th.
Mercury retrograde has become overemphasized in recent years + always gets blamed when things go wrong. While it’s true that we may experience technological glitches, a sense of brain fog + some confusion surrounding all domains related to Mercury, it’s not all doom and gloom. Mercury retrograde is really a time to pay attention to how you verbalize your feelings + thoughts to avoid misunderstandings, double-check any documents you need to sign + make sure that you have replied to messages so you don’t miss any important information.
As Aquarius represents collective consciousness, this Rx highlights the connection between the individual mind and the collective mind. During this cycle, many of us may experience sudden ideas and downloads from the collective consciousness - making this a great time to slow down, meditate and pay attention.
How does your natal Mercury affect your Mercury retrograde experience?
If you’re like me and were born during a Mercury retrograde*, you likely experience these cycles quite differently than those who were born while it was direct. You might experience a boost of energy, sudden inspiration + enhanced communication whenever Mercury enters retrograde. This retrograde, occurring in Aquarius, has added an extra touch of inspiration for me personally, but I have found it quite hard to organize and keep track of my overactive (more so than usual) mind at this time.
Mercury Rx Mood Mylk
Whether your natal Mercury is direct or retrograde, this Mercury Rx Mood Mylk will help keep you calm, your mind clear, + help you ground during this cycle. Mercurial herbs like lavender, star anise, fennel, and reishi bring clarity, calm, increase good vibes, and get rid of excess air energy at this time. I love to sip on mine in the bath, where I find the most rest in my true lunar Piscean nature.
Ingredients + supplies:
1 cup oat or other plant based milk
1 tsp lavender petals (I get mine in bulk at Goodness Me or New Age Health)
1/4 tsp fennel seeds
1 star anise
1/4 tsp reishi powder (I like to use Harmonic Arts)
Honey or maple syrup to taste
Mesh or cloth strainer Milk frother or whisk
Mortar + pestle or rolling pin
Directions:
In the mortar and pestle, gently grind up lavender and fennel to release oils (alternatively, roll over them with a rolling pin)
In small saucepan, heat up milk on low heat + add lavender, fennel, reishi, sweetener of choice (optional)
Whisk or froth gently (if you are frothing, add star anise after so it doesn't shoot up at you)
Bring to gently simmer, stirring occasionally (do not let it boil)
Strain into mug (I strained mine but then added the anise back 'cause it's pretty)
Enjoy in your place of rest + relaxation!
Sending love + good vibes,
Vanja
