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Every time things aren't going right in my world, I inevitably find out that it's Mercury Retrograde, and this gives me a sense of calm because I now have something mystical to blame for the fact that my partner and I aren't communicating well, the dogs aren't listening to me, the internet is slow, and my computer keeps skipping a space. None of this is my fault – it's Mercury Retrograde. But, is Mercury Retrograde real? And if it is and it affects humans, does it affect dogs too?
What is Mercury Retrograde?
Mercury retrograde, a phenomenon in astrology, is a period when the planet Mercury appears to move backward (but it's not actually moving backward). Mercury is the planet of communication, including social media, emails, messages, blogging, and journalists. The effects of Mercury retrograde are subjective and based on individual beliefs. Astrologers suggest that during Mercury retrograde, there may be challenges or miscommunications in specific areas of life associated with Mercury's influence, such as communication, technology, and travel. However, scientific evidence does not support the notion that the movement of planets directly affects human experiences or daily life. The interpretation and belief in the effects of Mercury retrograde vary among individuals.
When Does Mercury Retrograde Happen?
This phenomenon happens several times a year, for three weeks at a time. Convenient, right? It's just enough time to be annoying and provide several opportunities for me to blame the cosmos for what I may be experiencing.
Does Mercury Retrograde Affect Dogs?
After reading up on this, I thought “OF COURSE Mercury retrograde affects dogs!!!” How could it not? Our dogs are so sensitive to energy, that it makes sense that our dogs might struggle with…
- focus and following commands
- getting us to understand what they need
- communicating with each other
Our dogs may need more of our patience and more assurance during this time. Or I may need to take a second look at my own behavior and take responsibility for my interactions with my dogs instead of blaming a planet.
Honestly, I can't recall anything out of the ordinary during prior Mercury retrogrades. Maybe it's because I'm constantly diffusing essential oils to keep my dogs calm and happy (and myself too) or maybe it's because this phenomenon isn't real.
Mercury Retrograde Essential Oil
Plant Therapy has a Mercury Retrograde essential oil, and of course, I purchased it. It has a woodsy/citrus scent that I love, and I diffuse it in the house because I love the smell. Not because I think an essential oil will prevent my computer from crashing.
To create the Mercury Retrograde blend, Plant Therapy has combined the following essential oils:
- Clary Sage – promotes clarity and boosts confidence
- Cedarwood – also helps with clarity and confidence
- Mandarin – brings joy to the emotional party
- Roman Chamomile – eases anxiety and promotes calm
- Cypress – improves our ability to listen to others and helps us manage change more smoothly
- Lemon – promotes concentration and boosts our mental capacity
- Neroli – improves our ability to be compassionate and communicate
Basically, if you think that people are misunderstanding your every word, find yourself in conflict with people or just want to smell something nice – diffuse some Mercury Retrograde essential oil.
How Many Drops of Mercury Retrograde?
When diffusing the Mercury Retrograde essential oil, I add 3-5 drops to each diffuser.
It can be used topically, too (on humans, not dogs) when diluted. I only use AnimalEO essential oils topically.
Is Mercury Retrograde Safe to Use with Dogs?
Before using any essential oil on or around my dogs, I check the Animal Desk Reference manual on essential oils for animals by Dr. Melissa Shelton.
I checked each ingredient in this blend and found that Mercury Retrograde essential oil is safe for use around dogs. So, if I'm stumbling over my words while everything around me goes on the fritz, maybe I'll diffuse some Mercury Retrograde.
