There’s a real reason you’re feeling so off right now and it’s not going to change anytime soon

If you've been feeling 'off' over the last few days, then it might comfort you to know that there could be a reason for it.

In fact, once we realised why we'd been feeling so out of sorts, it all made total sense.

Is the Mercury retrograde making you feel off? (Getty Stock Photo)

We are, of course, talking about the Mercury retrograde.

Many people associate the cosmic phenomenon with a negative mood, such as sadness, anger, and general irritability.

But what exactly is the Mercury retrograde?

It's essentially an optical illusion in which the planet appears to move in the opposite direction.

It occurs around four times a year, appearing like it's moving from east to west instead of west to east.

Speaking to Tarotoo, celebrity expert astrologer Inbaal Honigman explained: "In actual fact, planets can only ever travel forward, along their orbit, but because our planet Earth moves, too, sometimes planets appear as if they're going backwards.

"When a planet is retrograde, we view it as bringing challenges within the realm of that particular planet, and also potentially dragging the past into the present."

So, if you've been feeling stressed, exhausted, and generally not quite *right*, there could be an explanation.

Mercury will be in retrograde until 15 December (Getty Stock Photo)

It's believed that the retrograde triggers challenges relating to organisation, technology, and communication.

We're talking chaotic travel delays, miscommunications, and regular 'one of those days' moments.

It can also spell relationship disaster, causing you to be more cautious with career moves, and see texts being read in the wrong context.

You could also fall out with your friends, suffer with heightened anxiety, or feel uncomfortable with current projects.

"This planet has a strong impact on all things communication - emails, online shopping, texts, conversations, speeches and even contracts," Inbaal explained.

She added that even the most conversational of individuals may find themselves stunted during the period, and that chatting in-person and via the telephone could lead to some serious miscommunication.

Mars also kicks off its retrograde in Leo on 6 December (Getty Stock Photo)

Mercury will be in retrograde in Sagittarius until 15 December, which could mean drama when it comes to Christmas prep and travel plans.

And if that wasn't bad enough, Mars also kicks off its retrograde in Leo on 6 December, which means patience will be essential while entering 2025.

It's a pretty significant astrological event, considering the planet hasn't been in retrograde since early 2023.

But don't fret too much: think of it more as a time to reflect on your passions, ambitions, and where you direct your energy.