This is the one thing you should *never* do during Mercury retrograde, according to an astrologer

Our favorite planet is at it again! Curious about what to avoid during Mercury retrograde? We've elicited help from the pros to help soften the blow.

Though Mercury retrograde 2023 is not going to feel quite as chaotic as years past, the cosmic trickster still manages to send us into a tizzy every time. During its backward journey, we stress about breaking up, losing our keys, and having to back up our hard drives on multiple occasions. We tend to get a bit out of sorts, no matter how many times we're instructed to review and revise.

So, what can we do to make our lives feel a little less like a reality TV spectacle? Patrick Price of Nebula reveals the one thing to avoid at all costs during this time. Take notes, dearies.

What to avoid during Mercury retrograde

What's the big no-no during Mercury retrograde? Rushing and jumping the gun. Impatience is *not* the way to go during this transit. No matter what you're experiencing in life, take a step back and don't act without thinking logically first—your emotions need to remain in check.

Since the Planet of Communication oftentimes affects our professional and personal relationships, it's important to take a step back and ensure that we're thinking clearly before any important conversation, big date, etc.

"Mercury retrograde is always guaranteed to bring a big dose of miscommunication, especially in close relationships," Price says. "Unintentional misunderstandings can always be at heightened risk during retrograde so the big thing you should avoid is having important conversations until you know you are in a place where you can think clearly and communicate efficiently."

Make sure you're giving 100 during all chats, lest you be subjected to an "I'm sorry" further down the line.

Mercury retrograde survival tips from a pro

Combat Mercury retrograde effects with some of Price's best advice. Not only should you be fighting the urge to be impatient (a constant struggle for this writer), but there are steps to take to make the planetary push and pull a little less stressful.

1. Stay grounded

"My big tip is to begin each day of retrograde by clearing your head as much as possible," Price suggests. "A simple five-minute meditation in the morning will really help with this."

Whie you're at it, have a look at some of our favorite meditation apps to help you get going on your de-stressing journey.

2. Reflect

Okay, okay, we know we've poked fun at the review and revise tactic, but it's beloved for a reason. We can be impulsive when the Planet of Communication stations retrograde, but if we reflect on our behavior, we can correct ourselves where need be.

"If you give yourself time to reflect, you will find clarity returns and the problem can usually be dealt with in a much more productive way," Price notes. "Be patient with yourself and allow yourself the time to think and avoid rushing straight on with your first reaction to the issue. Keeping in touch with yourself and reflecting on your emotions are key."

This all goes back to the "don't be impatient" bit. Slow it down, folks!

3. Love yourself

How can you be expected to love—and be patient with—others if you're unkind to yourself? Our self-esteem can take a hit during retrograde, so it's important to give yourself a little reminder of all the wonderful things you do.

"A great way to boost your self-confidence is some simple and self-loving affirmations as the day begins," Price says. "Retrograde can be a saboteur if we are not actively working to keep ourselves aligned with our best selves."

4. Decompress

Not that you need an excuse to unwind, but Mercury's misbehavior is all the more reason to soak in a bubble bath or get a mani-pedi. Allow us to recommend some self-care practices to help you get your wellness on. And if you enjoy working with stones, check out our favorite crystals for Mercury retrograde.

Mercury Mug

RRP: $14 | Etsy

Mercury T-Shirt

RRP: $16.99 | Amazon

Mercury Candle

RRP: $18.80 | Etsy

Good luck, friends. Don't let Mercury pull a fast one on you! To stay up on cosmic activity, have a look at our guide to what planet is in retrograde.