Mercury Retrograde in Leo | Harnessing the Lion
Introduction
There are many forces at work in this life that aren’t always visible. A Mercury retrograde exemplifies this. It strips us of the comfort of past beliefs and stagnant cycles, making us confront the shadow aspects of our psyche. This astrological shift highlights areas that require expansion, particularly in our communication and introspection. When we harness this call-to-action from the universe, we can become our highest form of self, as it puts us in direct collaboration with the work necessary to achieve positive growth.
What is a Mercury Retrograde
A Mercury retrograde occurs about four times a year for around three weeks each period. During this time, Mercury appears to be moving backward in the sky. This optical illusion also creates illusions in our personal lives, making conversations and mental energy more difficult.
Mercury Retrograde in Leo
When Mercury is in retrograde in the fixed-fire sign, Leo, how we talk to ourselves and others is called into question. Leo, the bold and prideful lion, can be quick to react rather than rationalize, especially in matters regarding the heart. This retrograde asks the practitioner, what can I do to give more grace to others and myself? How can I speak more intentionally? What pre-conceived notions of beauty am I hanging onto? How can I lean into my creativity, even in difficult times?
Leo is not a quiet or subtle sign. It is one filled to the brim with passion. Thus, mistakes made under this astrological period may feel more devastating and noticeable. It is important to be tactful with what we say and how we spend our energy.
How to Harness Mercury
When a Mercury retrograde comes knocking, it’s time to open the door to reflection. These periods, where the veil thins, offer windows into our subconscious. It is not uncommon to ruminate on themes that challenged us during the previous Mercury retrograde. Do not let these thoughts consume you so that you can meet this challenge with the mental and physical energy necessary to enact change.
Crystals for a Mercury Retrograde in Leo
During the duration of Mercury retrograde, complications in travel, communication, and emotional regulation are more common. It is important to guard our minds and hearts. One way you can do so is by implementing crystals in your daily life. Here are some of our favorites that’ll help you take on this retrograde and any other difficult transitions:
Lapis Lazuli - This crystal has been implemented in spiritual practices since the Mesopotamia period from 3400–3000 BC, where it was traded between the Egyptians. Lapis has been found in many historical relics, some of the more popular being the Pillars in Saint Petersburg Cathedral, King Tutankhamen’s Sarcophagus, and the eyeshadow of Cleopatra. Lazuli governs the throat and third eye chakras, making it easier to navigate Mercury’s challenges.
Black Tourmaline - Black Tourmaline has a long history of being used in metaphysical practices for auric cleansing, dating back to the third century B.C.. This stone is recommended for anyone experiencing uncomfortable environments or challenging times. Powerful grounding stones like Black Tourmaline are vital to utilize during a Mercury retrograde, aiding the user in operating out of confidence rather than fear. When fear is our primary driver, we take a passenger seat in our higher purpose.
Fluorite - Fluorite activates our entire chakra column and is known to provide mental clarity. When the energy between all chakras is in active communication with one another, it is easier to make decisions and express ourselves. This crystal is also known to remove creative blockages, making the flow of artistic expression effortless. Harnessing our innovation during a Mercury retrograde eases the tension felt under this astrological period.
Clear Quartz - Quartz, the second most abundant material on Earth, was first recorded in 300 B.C. by Theophrastus and was given the name Kristallos. The origin comes from the word “ice.” Clear Quartz is the most powerful enhancement crystal and can be used to amplify the effects of spells and neighboring crystals. The clarity provided by Quartz paves the way for our path towards enlightenment.
Labradorite - Labradorite is often called the ‘stone of transformation’ for its powerful transmuting qualities. This crystal acts as a chariot, bulldozing the stagnant energy lingering within the practitioner. When we can operate free of blockages and limiting beliefs, it is much easier to seek positive growth.
The Magician
Mercury is portrayed in Tarot as the Magician card. The Magician card depicts a masculine figure wielding a raised candle lit from both ends, with their other hand lowered, pointed at the ground. This positioning represents his connection between the spiritual realms and the material plane. On their table are symbols of each element, symbolizing the Magician’s harness of all forces to make their dreams actualized.
Mercury represents this card because this planet pushes us to lean into all that is unseen in our mental processes and communication to enact change in our physical reality. Connecting with our mental psyche through honest reflection is how the Magician can materialize the journey ahead. We are in the best position to take on the world when we operate from a place of self-awareness and intentionality.
Conclusion
Often, Mercury retrograde is seen as the harbinger of bad luck due to the complications that arise with communication, technology, and travel. A different perspective is, we garner a more intimate perspective of ourselves and what we are capable of when facing tribulations. Sometimes, the only way out is through. The universe is on your side; it’s yours for the taking.