Mercury, as the planet of communication, when retrograding, tends to breed a certain level of confusion. Mercury rules our “lower” mind — how we perceive and interpret information that we receive from our environment, and how we relay that information to others. Mercury rules over such things as speaking, negotiating, buying and selling, listening, formal contracts, documents, travel, the mail and shipping, and so forth. All these areas of life are affected when Mercury is functioning in a sluggish state. Decision-making is challenged during Mercury retrograde. Needless to say, it is not advised to sign contracts, engage in important decision-making, or launch a new business. Delays and challenges are more probable with Mercury retrograde. This period is best used for re-organizing and reflecting.