Witch-Tok star’s supernatural hacks for superstitious Brits during Mercury Retrograde

With a third (33%) of UK road-users feeling that celestial movements influence how they feel, the majority (43%) of Gen Z and Millennials say they feel more tense and anxious about taking to the roads now that Mercury has entered retrograde.

Surveying their 2000 strong team of heycar Heroes[1], over a third (33%) of Gen Z and Millennials said they will check to ensure their car is safe to drive to help mitigate these feelings and keep their journeys cool, calm and collected, while Mercury does its thing.

Taking celestial safety one step further nearly a quarter (24%) of Brits keep crystals in their home for spiritual reasons, with one in five (20%) stating that they are actively seeking additional ways to replicate this in their cars, to help balance their in-car-chakras. Nearly a fifth (17.5%) even admit to using spells in the past to give them good fortune while driving.

The added tensions caused to journeys by Mercury being in retrograde are the last things UK motorists need, as they’re already frustrated by other driver’s behaviour (23%), fuel costs (22%) and potholes (17%), just as the planet begins to cast its spell.

Thankfully, heycar’s stepping up to the plate to ensure that drivers across the nation stay feeling good, by partnering with Witch-Tok star, Joy Thompson-Daley (@pillaroflighttarot). Together, they have created a handy downloadable guide that includes tips and tricks on how to mitigate the impact of those ‘Mercury in retrograde’ moments, and keep your in-car-chakras balanced.

Offering advice as Mercury enters retrograde, Joy said: “Mercury is the planet of communication and as it goes into a retrograde state, its influence intensifies.

“This time, Mercury goes into retrograde in the sign of Taurus which is an earth sign that represents stability, finances and sometimes stubbornness. During this Mercury retrograde, communication, financial affairs and technology may be disrupted, leading to potential misunderstandings and frustrations.”

“It’s a reminder to practice patience, stay calm, and double-check details in all areas of life, whether it’s while driving, working, or during personal interactions.”

“Taking proactive measures to mitigate tensions and being mindful of potential challenges can help us navigate through this period with grace and resilience.”

Just like mirror, signal, manoeuvre, there is one celestial safety routine which Joy recommends before committing to a long journey this Mercury retrograde:

1. Charm – Find a protective magical symbol to keep on your person. Symbols such as a pentacle or Germanic Runes are talismans that can represent safety and can help to keep you spiritually protected.
2. Enchant – The casting a simple good luck spell using readily available items such as cinnamon and a candle is a great way to focus your mind on what you want from life and bring focus to your daily routine.
3. Energise – Focus on the protective, feel-good energy of an in-car crystal. Crystals such as hematite, or smoky quartz are believed to have grounding properties that can help stabilise energy and reduce tension. Keeping a small crystal in your car or wear it as a jewellery to help stay grounded.

Now that you’re spiritually prepped to embark on your journey, here are seven mystic steps which can help to grant you save passage once you’re in the car:

The tarot test – If you’re unsure about going on a journey, tarot cards can help you connect with the universe’s energy and unlock further understanding of your own wants and desires. It’s a great way to get you into the right mind frame ahead of a long journey.
Perform a cleanse – burning rosemary is symbolic of a “fresh start”. Allowing the smoke to drift over your car, as well as giving a de clutter inside will help you to embark on a new path.
Balance your car’s chacra – a car can be a sensitive machine and during Mercury retrograde, technology is one of the things that can be affected. Regularly checking your vehicle’s brakes, tires, lights, and fluids will help to maintain a positive energy and reduce the risk of breakdowns or mishaps.
Nurture your inner engine – Essential oils such as lavender, chamomile, or bergamot can help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. Maybe use a diffuser or apply a few drops of these oils to a cotton pad in your car to create a calming atmosphere while driving.
Sounds for the soul – Create a playlist of calming music or sounds of nature that can help soothe your mind and keep you grounded. Avoid loud or aggressive music that may add to stress and distract you from the road.
Future gaze – Mercury retrograde can sometimes disrupt travel plans and transportation. Planning ahead, leaving a bit extra time for journeys, and anticipating any delays will help to keep you calm and frustration free on the road.
Banish traffic anxiety – Traffic jams and delays can be frustrating, especially during Mercury retrograde. Practice patience, take deep breaths, and stay calm if you’re in a jam. Mercury retrograde can often amplify emotions, leading to road rage, so it’s key to practice self-control. Avoid engaging in confrontations with other drivers, they aren’t worth it!

Charlotte Ford, Head of Brand Marketing & Engagement, said: “With nearly one in five of us of us (17%) keeping crystals in their car for spiritual reasons, it’s clear that for superstitious Brits, Mercury entering retrograde is something on many motorists’ minds. It’s so easy to get rattled while driving and a little advice can often go a long way. At heycar, we’re all about that feel-good driving experience and that’s why we think Joy’s tips are perfect to help any would-be travellers before they head out on the roads.”

Find heycar’s tips for keeping the feel-good in driving, even when the stars aren’t aligning, here on the heycar website: https://heycar.co.uk/mercury-retrograde-guide