Mercury retrogrades more often than other planets, typically two to three times a year Caves says.
Mercury retrograde ended May 14.
Though it is popular slang to say, "in retrograde" this is grammatically incorrect, some say. It is instead "mercury is retrograde" because retrograde is an adjective and should be used as such.
For planets that are inside our orbit like Mercury and Venus – though most of the time they appear to be going in the same direction as the other planets – every once in a while they pull off an optical illusion.
In astrology, mercury retrograde symbolizes movement against the tide, Caves says. "On a global mundane level when everything is distributed kind of equally, you'll feel a little bit more institutional chaos than normal," he explains.
Mercury retrograde has a direct effect on transmission of information, Caves says. "It has a direct connection to networks, communication networks, mail," he ticks off.
In kicking back up issues from the past, Mercury retrograde might force you to slow down and be more intentional, Caves says.
"Avoid making new agreements or finalizing agreements," he warns, "it's good for revision, it's not good for executing."
"Not every retrograde hits everybody," Caves explains. It depends on the retrograde and your birth chart. In every mercury retrograde there will be some signs that have no connection to it, he says.
The solar eclipse, which took place between April 19 and 20, is not connected with mercury retrograde despite their proximity.