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). So, a few times a year, Mercury seems to overlap us.
Babylonian astronomers discovered the retrograde of Mercury during the final century BC. However, before 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 called the planet of communication. So, during its retrograde, astrologers believe that dialogue and social expressions go awry. If you notice emails going missing or petty fights arising, this is simply the work of Mercury in retrograde.
When is Mercury in retrograde?
Mercury is the fastest planet in our solar system. So it retrogrades three to four times a year, lasting for about three weeks at a time. Here are the next Mercury retrogrades to prepare yourself for:
4 August to 27 August 2024: The last days of winter will bring a lot of miscommunications thanks to the phenomenon.
25 November to 15 December 2024: What better way to end the year than to enter the holiday season with Mercury in retrograde? Triple-check all your Christmas plans 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: This retrograde is going to pump the brakes on your usually very fast pace and 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. It may put your natural flair for communicating to the test. 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: Your already delicate relationship dynamics may be tested, 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, for you, Mercury retrograde is like being handcuffed. 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. 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 misunderstandings over money to arise. Try to avoid any spontaneous purchases and keep an extra eye on your finances this month.
