ZEITGEIST WEEK 3 - Mercury retrograde. From January 13 until February 3, Mercury will travel in a backwards motion across the sky (Mercury retrograde). To those who practice astrology, these times in particular are associated with confusion, delay, and frustration. Some people even blame Mercury retrograde for all chaos that happens in their lives. No need to panic though! Just sit back, be extra cautious and review what you put your energy into.