New Delhi, Aug. 29 -- On August 27, thousands of yoga lovers gathered at Bryant Park in New York to practice together. They wanted to release the negativity linked with Mercury in retrograde.

The event, free for the public, was called a way to shake off the "retroshade" of this astrological phase. Mercury retrograde occurs three to four times a year. It is feared by astrology enthusiasts for causing misfortune.

This large gathering of yogis chanting "Om" was aimed at balancing energy and easing stress. It looks to turn the difficult planetary phase into a fresh start.

Mercury's backward movement lasted from July 17 to August 11. The period is often associated with bad luck, confusion and emotional stress, according to the New York Post...