You’ve probably heard the warnings: “Don’t sign contracts! Don’t buy electronics! Don’t make big decisions! Don’t do this and don’t do that!” And if you’re into manifesting or spellwork, you’ve likely also heard the advice to avoid money spells during this cosmic chaos. But why? And is it always true? Let’s break it down.
Is Mercury Retrograde Really That Bad?
Mercury retrograde isn’t some cosmic villain out to ruin your life—it just gets a bad rap. In reality, it’s a natural astrological phenomenon that happens when Mercury appears to move backward in the sky (from our vantage point here on Earth). Think of it as an optical illusion, but with planetary vibes.
Astrologically, this period is linked to themes like miscommunication, delays, and revisiting the past. It’s not about chaos for the sake of chaos; it’s more like the universe saying, “Slow down. Let’s double-check this before moving forward.”
During Mercury retrograde, the energy encourages us to pause, reflect, and reassess. It’s not the best time for rushing into new ventures or making big decisions without thinking them through. Instead, it’s a chance to tie up loose ends, revisit old plans, and make sure everything’s in order before the cosmic fog lifts. Yes, it might feel frustrating at times, but it’s not inherently “evil” or out to get you—it’s just doing its job, reminding us to pay attention to the details we might otherwise overlook.
How About Money Spells?
So, why does this make money spells a bit tricky? Well, money spells often rely on clear intentions, focused energy, and smooth communication with the universe. But Mercury retrograde? It’s the cosmic equivalent of a glitchy Wi-Fi connection. Your signal might get crossed, your intentions might get muddled, and the results could be… well, not what you expected. You might end up manifesting confusion, delays, or even unexpected expenses instead of abundance.
From this perspective, Mercury retrograde isn’t ideal for any spells because they might not work—or, even worse, they may have a very different effect than intended.
But here’s the thing: it’s not always a hard no. If your intentions are clean, clear, and rooted in gratitude or generosity (rather than greed or desperation), you can still work with money spells during Mercury retrograde. It just depends on your personal energy and your astrological transit chart.
For example, if Mercury is retrograde in a money-related house in your chart (like the 2nd or 8th house), you might actually benefit from revisiting your relationship with money. It could be a time to reflect, reassess, and realign your financial goals.
That said, if you’re feeling unsure or if Mercury retrograde has you feeling particularly scattered, there are other ways to work with the energy of this period without diving headfirst into spellwork. Here are a few alternatives:
Review and reflect: Use this time to go over your budget, debts, or financial goals. Mercury retrograde is great for revisiting old plans and seeing where you can make improvements. It’s not about starting something new—it’s about refining what’s already in motion.
Cleanse your financial energy: If you’re not ready to cast a money spell, try cleansing your financial energy instead. Burn some sage, visualize releasing any blocks or fears around money, and set an intention for clarity and abundance.
Practice gratitude: Gratitude is one of the most powerful forms of manifestation. Instead of focusing on what you lack, take time to appreciate what you already have. Write down three things you’re grateful for every day—it’s a simple but effective way to shift your energy toward abundance.
Work on communication: Since Mercury rules communication, this is a great time to improve how you talk about money. Have those awkward conversations about debts, salaries, or budgets. Clear the air and make sure everyone’s on the same page.
Plan for the future: Mercury retrograde isn’t the best time to launch new financial ventures, but it is a great time to plan. Use this period to research, brainstorm, and get clear on what you want to manifest once Mercury goes direct.
Mercury Retrograde Is What You Make of It
If you approach Mercury retrograde with mindfulness and patience, it can actually become a powerful time for growth—yes, even when it comes to money. Think of it as a cosmic reset button, giving you the chance to slow down, reassess, and realign your intentions. Just remember: spells are tools, but the real magic lies in your energy and intentions. They’re the driving force behind everything.
So, whether you’re casting a money spell or simply taking a moment to reflect on your financial journey, keep your heart and mind clear. And hey, if Mercury retrograde has you feeling stuck or frustrated, take a deep breath and remind yourself: this is temporary.
