Have you noticed something in the air recently? Maybe you never heard back after sending a nerve-wracking text, or perhaps you’ve found yourself in petty arguments with your partner more than usual… If things in your life seem a little haywire right now, don’t fret, it’s simply Mercury retrograde. If this is your first time hearing about this astrological phenomenon, then strap in because you’re about to learn what Mercury retrograde is and all the havoc it can wreak on your star sign.
What is Mercury retrograde?
In astronomy, Mercury retrograde is where the fiery planet pulls an optical illusion where it appears to move backward from our view here on Earth. This is because Mercury has a shorter orbit than Earth’s (88 days versus 365), therefore a few times a year, Mercury seems to overlap us.
The retrograde of Mercury was discovered all the way back during the final century BC by Babylonian astronomers. However, prior to the popularisation of astrology, Mercury retrograde was a little-known space phenomenon. Now, these two pesky words are enough to make even the biggest sceptics wince.
Mercury is known as the planet of communication and so during its retrograde, astrologers believe that dialogue and social expressions go awry. If during this period you notice emails going missing or petty fights arising, this is simply the work of Mercury in retrograde.
When is Mercury retrograde?
Mercury is the fastest planet in our solar system, therefore it retrogrades three to four times a year, lasting for about three weeks at a time. Here’s the next Mercury retrogrades to prepare yourself for:
4 August to 27 August, 2024: The last days of Winter will bring a tonne of miscommunications thanks to Mercury being in retrograde.
25 November to 15 December, 2024: What better way to end the year than to enter the holiday season with Mercury in retrograde? Make sure all your Christmas plans are triple-checked during this time.
14 March to 7 April, 2025: We’ll have a couple of months of stability before being back in the throes of yet another retrograde starting in March 2025.
What does Mercury retrograde mean for each sign?
Aries: Aries, this retrograde is going to pump the brakes on your usually very fast pace which is bound to slow down new projects. Though as a go-getter, this will frustrate you to no end, take this time to reassess your goals and avoid impulsive decisions.
Taurus: Taureans, we know you hate change but expect some disruptions in your daily routine, especially around finances. Be sure to double-check any investments or financial commitments that you may have felt confident about a few weeks back.
Gemini: Gemini, as a steadfast communicator and social butterfly, you experience Mercury retrograde the hardest. Your natural flair for communicating will be put to the test during this period. Be extra clear in your conversations, and think before you talk.
Cancer: Emotional turbulence may arise and bring uncomfortable past issues to the surface, Cancer. Hunker down and use this time to heal and address unresolved feelings in your relationships for your own good.
Leo: We know you love the limelight, Leo, but right now you might feel more introspective than usual. You might find yourself questioning your career or public image over the next few weeks. Take a rare moment for some self-reflection and avoid making any major life changes until the retrograde passes.
Virgo: Mercury retrograde loves to cause delays in travel plans and disrupt major goals you’ve been working towards. As a diligent planner, this is going to be majorly frustrating for you Virgo. Be patient and use this time to review and refine your strategies.
Libra: Librans, your already delicate relationship dynamics may be tested this retrograde, with potential miscommunications or old conflicts resurfacing. Using your natural prowess to be a mediator and diplomat, try approaching these conflicts with a balanced mindset.
Scorpio: Scorpio, we know you love a secret (or two) but prepare yourself for this retrograde. Secrets or hidden information might come to light during this period. Try to be emotionally prepared to deal with whatever these revelations will bring to your life.
Sagittarius: Sagittarius, Mercury retrograde is like being handcuffed for you. You’re utterly restless and hate the idea of not pushing ahead. Resist the urge to make hasty decisions, and instead, focus on grounding yourself until this passes.
Capricorn: Capricorns, we know that you’re the workaholics of the zodiac, but during the retrograde, career matters might slow down. Rather than get frustrated, use this time to reevaluate your professional path and consider whether you’re truly on the right track.
Aquarius: You’re the most likely to experience technical glitches or challenges in learning or communication during the retrograde, Aquarians. Double-check every text you send and be cautious with technology during this time.
Pisces: Financial matters could be tricky during this retrograde for you, Pisces. Expect random expenses to crop up or misunderstanding over money to arise. Try to avoid any spontaneous purchases and keep an extra eye on your finances this month.
