Everyone is afraid of retrogrades in astrology. And yet, Mercury goes retrograde three times a year, each time for about three weeks. That’s a lot of fear to carry. But I’m here to tell you there’s no need to panic. Mercury retrograde can actually help you if you know how to work with it.
Retrograde means a planet looks like it's moving backward in the sky. It’s just an illusion. It happens because Earth moves faster, and we “pass” the slower planet, like overtaking a car on the road. If you look out the window, that car seems to be moving backward, even though it’s still going forward at its own pace.
Mercury rules our thinking, our words, and how we make sense of the world. So when Mercury is retrograde, it’s like we’re passing our own thoughts. We get closer to them than usual, and that’s not a bad thing. It helps us notice what isn’t working. Sometimes, our phone breaks, our emails don’t send, or we miss an appointment. It’s frustrating, but it’s also showing us what needs more attention. Even when exes show up, it might be a sign there’s something still unfinished.
Mercury retrograde is not a curse. It’s a chance to go deeper. Reach out to someone if it feels right. Turn off your phone if it’s stressing you out. Try harder to really understand the people around you.
This retrograde is in Leo, and it lasts until August 11. The most intense day will be Friday, July 25, when the Moon meets Mercury in the sky. That day might bring strong emotions or big realizations.
Here’s what it means for each rising sign:
Aries: You’ll think more about love, fun, and what brings you joy. Try to enjoy life again.
Taurus: You’ll be looking at your home and family life. Make sure your space feels peaceful.
Gemini: You’ll notice how you talk to people. Try to make daily conversations more honest and kind.
Cancer: You’ll want to feel safer, especially with money. Try to sort things out so you feel more steady.
Leo: You’ll be on people’s minds more than usual. Don’t be afraid to speak up and show who you are.
Virgo: You might feel like being alone more. That’s okay. Use this time to rest and reflect.
Libra: You’ll want to help others more. Ask yourself what kind of thinking will let you support your community.
Scorpio: You’ll feel more confident and powerful. This is a good time to take yourself seriously and step up.
Sagittarius: You might feel like your thoughts, words, and actions don’t match. Try to bring them into harmony.
Capricorn: You may have to face topics that make you uncomfortable. It’s time to open up and share more.
Aquarius: You’ll focus on one-on-one relationships. You can fix and improve them now if you’re honest.
Pisces: You’ll work on your habits and daily routines. Start small, stay humble, and you’ll see big changes.