Mercury will be moving retrograde soon, in the signs of Cancer and Gemini. Some people think the best way to handle a Mercury retrograde is to lie low, wait it out, and hope for a minimum of disruption until things “return to normal.” However this is not advisable, and certainly not practical for most of us.

The three Mercury retrograde periods in 2014 all begin in the early degrees of water signs. But just as we start “feeling” our way in the world, Mercury retraces its steps and moves back into the previous air sign. This is an opportunity for us to go back and review our thoughts: our internal mental processing of events we have been experiencing. Then perhaps we can change our thinking, which in turn will affect how we feel when Mercury moves direct and re-enters the emotional water signs.

In this particular June 2014 retrograde period Mercury will be spending much of the time in its own sign of Gemini, the sign of movement and intellectual activity. A retrograde is a time to look within, rather than taking action mindlessly, or reacting. This is not a time for inactivity, but rather a time to pay attention to our thoughts and perceptions as we interact with others and with our immediate environment.

You can make good use of this retrograde period by noticing how you are moving and interacting with others. What internal dialog is taking place? What are you thinking? How are you speaking? How are your views impacting your in-the-now experiences?

Be present, in the moment. Reflect on your internal workings. Be open and curious to new ways of looking at things. Entertain fresh, new perspectives or points of view. Ask questions. Listen. Be receptive to other people’s ideas or takes on a matter. Allow the flow of thoughts, ideas, and different perspectives to circulate as you move through your surroundings during each day. Allow new information to enhance, deepen, or even change your own thoughts and perceptions. Be adaptable and versatile.

A New Moon in Gemini on Wednesday May 28th precedes the Mercury retrograde. New Moons mark the beginning of the monthly cycle, and are an opportunity to plant the seeds of new beginnings. This New Moon will pave the way for the three week Mercury retrograde. You can set an intention to let go of old ways of thinking on the New Moon, and to be responsive to changing circumstances, fluid and adaptable.

The Mercury retrograde begins June 7th. You may feel things slow down. Be prepared to be more attentive to details, as plans may shift and change. Be patient and diligent, as issues may be revisited, giving you an opportunity to reset your course. You may need additional information, which may surface later. You may have to re-do some things twice. This is a good time to build the everyday skills we are expected to have, focusing on the ones that are our weakest.

Allow your mind to turn inward. Listen to your “inner knowing” and let it be your guide.