Understanding the Mercury Retrograde Shadow Period

Many people are familiar with Mercury Retrograde — an astrological transit infamous for disrupting communication, technology, and travel. Less well-known, however, is the Mercury Retrograde shadow period, sometimes called “Mercury Retroshade.”

This refers to the pre- and post-shadow periods that bookend each retrograde. But don’t worry, this doesn’t mean that Mercury Retrograde is longer. These Mercury Retrograde shadow periods do carry some of Mercury Retrograde’s influence, but they also offer a window into self-discovery, helping us anticipate and reflect on issues before and after the full impact of the retrograde hits.

What Is Mercury Retrograde?

Planets orbit the sun at varying speeds, and when one passes Earth — or vice versa — it creates the illusion of the other planet moving backward. This is known as a retrograde. And, as the fastest-moving planet in the solar system, Mercury completes its orbit in just 88 days. As a result, there are often three or four Mercury Retrogrades each year.

As the planet of communication, transportation, and technology, Mercury going retrograde can cause these areas to experience disruptions. Think technology glitches, travel delays, and misunderstandings. These obstacles and challenges serve to encourage people to slow down and observe details they might overlook in their usual fast-paced lives.

What Is the Mercury Retrograde Shadow Period?

The energy of Mercury Retrograde begins approximately two weeks preceding the retrograde and lasts for around two weeks after, though the exact length of time varies from retrograde to retrograde. These are known as the Mercury Retrograde shadow periods or the Mercury Retroshades.

Including the shadow periods, imagine that each retrograde unfolds in three acts. Mercury’s cosmic theatrics begin with the first shadow period (the pre-shadow), where it appears to slow down just before it begins moving backward. This is followed by the actual retrograde itself. The drama then culminates with the second shadow period (the post-shadow), when it appears to retrace its steps as it resumes forward motion.

Mercury Retrograde shadow periods tend to have a similar energy to the retrograde itself, though to a lesser degree. As such, they’re a great time to prepare for and respond to a given retrograde.

Related: What is the Meaning of Saturn Retrograde?

Mercury Retrograde Pre-Shadow

Mercury Retrograde’s pre-shadow period may bring up an event or theme in your life that the Universe is trying to draw your attention to. It’s a time to slow down your thinking and actions in that area, as it can help you get to the bottom of whatever it is you need to work through.

Anything that comes up during this period may also be magnified by the retrograde itself. Think of this Mercury Retrograde shadow period as the prep work you need to ride out the retrograde ahead!

Mercury Retrograde Post-Shadow

The Mercury Retrograde post-shadow period is a time to tie up loose ends, seek resolution, and regain clarity. There will typically be some sort of conclusion to the themes or issues that were highlighted during the pre-shadow and retrograde periods.

It’s also a great time for digesting and integrating the lessons you’ve learned over the past retrograde, as well as a good opportunity to right anything that went sideways. You can think of this as the clean-up period after the retrograde. Be sure to congratulate yourself on having made it through this topsy-turvy time.

How To Handle the Mercury Retrograde Shadow Periods

Each Mercury Retrograde and its corresponding shadow periods will be impacted by the other transits happening around the same time, along with whatever zodiac signs they’re occurring in. Where these signs fall in your natal chart will also be significant, so it’s always a good idea to speak to an Astrology Psychic to get a deeper understanding of what it could mean for you.

In the weeks leading up to Mercury Retrograde, pay attention to your environment for clues as to what may start to come up for you. Take extra precautions regarding anything related to communication, transportation, and technology. Triple-check contracts, important emails, and texts, and take that extra second to collect your thoughts before bringing up a difficult topic with others. Prepare for technological complications and build in extra travel time to account for unexpected delays.

During the shadow periods, it can be helpful to do some extra journaling. Lean into self-care and embrace a mindset of slowing down. Spend time in nature and be sure to participate in activities that you find helpful, especially in promoting self-discovery and boosting your energy.

Even though Mercury Retrograde and its shadow periods sometimes have a bad reputation culturally, it’s actually a time that’s rich with energy and opportunities for growth. Should you ever feel a creeping sense of dread about Mercury Retrograde, just remember: slow down, seek support if you need it, open your mind to change, and stay focused!

Astrology plays an important role in your day-to-day life. The planets are responsible for your moods, experiences and more, which is why you should get a Psychic Astrology Reading. Our Astrology Psychics can calculate your natal chart and tell you about the important dates in your life (past, present, and future) that will massively impact you. Learn more about our psychics from real testimonials and read through our Astrology & Numerology Blog. Want to read more about your personal birth chart first? Get a free birth chart report today! Find an Astrology Psychic or learn more about Astrology Readings.

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