To survive this Mercury retrograde, Susan Miller says to communicate with caution

The Mercury retrograde has a way of making everything go berserk. The astrological period, which starts today and lasts through December 6th, has a reputation for adding a particularly wonky vibe to your relationships. But in order to stop the celestial event from hijacking any chance you have at a civil Thanksgiving dinner, rockstar astrologer Susan Miller says you just need to follow one simple communication rule: Be crystal clear.

“No, you don’t have to overcommunicate, but you do have to be clear, because you’re probably picking up the wrong info. And the person hearing you might be picking up the wrong information,” the world-famous Astrology Zone founder said at a recent event for American Greetings in New York City.

“No, you don’t have to overcommunicate, but you have to be clear because you’re probably picking up the wrong info. And the person hearing you might be picking up the wrong information.” —Susan Miller

She adds that people are more likely to read into conversations during this time, so a simple comment can easily snowball into a perceived slight. “People tend to say, ‘What do you mean by that?’ So you have to just be a little less judgmental so that you make sure that you communicate clearly,” Miller says. For example, be sure to very carefully mask the fake compliment you give your cousin about the gelatinous cranberry sauce she serves up on Turkey Day. And if your parents’ criticism feels a little more biting than usual, shake your fists at the cosmos rather than starting a fight.

In the midst of it all, remember that Mercury retrograde also offers opportunity for growth. So if (and when) your relationships make it through the first week of December, they’ll definitely be stronger for it.

Question: Should you pick a mattress based on your zodiac sign? Plus, what does it means if your sign doesn’t resonate with you?