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Shaolin Monks five tips for inner peace as Mercury is in retrograde
On your quest for inner peace and an overall better life, you might consider listening to advice from Walter Gjergja, a Shaolin secular monk of the 32nd generation.
Whether you believe in its power or not, Mercury is now in retrograde. The phenomenon occurs when Mercury’s orbit slows around the sun, giving off the illusion that it is moving backward. For those who believe in astrological practices like mediation and the power of the winter solstice, the time is a particularly difficult one filled with confusion, stress, and anxiety.
Inner peace starts with meditation, the monk said
Monks, whether they be of Christian or Buddhist origin, are widely regarded as one of the wisest groups in the world. For this reason, most are receptive to keen advice from them like the recent cautionary tale about alcohol.
Walter Gjergja, also known as Shi Xing Mi, is a Shaolin secular monk of the 32nd generation who also works as a philosopher, adviser, strategist, coach, speaker, and author.
“During Mercury retrograde, many people experience increased anxiety and stress, which can manifest physically as headaches, muscle tightness, and weariness. It can alter sleep patterns, exacerbating stress and weakening the immune system,” he told The New York Post in an interview this week.
The first stop is meditation, which we already know can encourage mindfulness and give you a welcome break from stress.
“Spend at least 10-15 minutes per day in a peaceful place, concentrating on your breathing and grounding yourself. This technique can help you calm your mind and feel less anxious,” Walter explained.
You are what you eat
The monk also encouraged readers to watch what they put in their bodies, suggesting they swap out the newest fast food treats for a diet comprised of “fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grain.”
As Walter claimed planetary movements can weaken the immune system, he further urged people to prioritize foods that are known for their immune-boosting properties.
Consider taking vitamins C, D, and zinc to boost your immune system. Taking care of your immunity keeps you healthy and resilient,” he told The Post.
The Shaolin Monk said you need to get moving
Gentle exercise is crucial for preserving mental and physical health, particularly during Mercury retrograde. Gentle workouts such as yoga, walking, or stretching will keep your body moving without overexertion. These hobbies can boost your mood,” he said.
When it comes to what sort of exercise you should be doing, the most important part is getting in at least 30 minutes a day. There are thousands of physical activities out there to choose from, like the monkey-hanging trend, so you can find one that perfectly suits your lifestyle.
Ditch your phone for inner peace, if you can
Undoubtedly the most difficult portion of Walter’s advice is his belief that you should reduce technological use. Though he attributed the move to tech being ruled by Mercury, there is a massive body of evidence that proves why your iPhone might be negatively impacting your health.
During Mercury retrograde, aim to reduce your exposure to screens, especially before bedtime. Take regular breaks from digital devices and spend time outdoors or engaging in offline activities,” he said.
Get outside and touch some grass and you might actually experience some inner peace.
