Mercury Retrograde can help or hinder the signs. It can allow for growth and purpose or chaos and disaster. Every sign has a choice to which. This article dives into each sign and what is best to focus on and what to avoid during these hectic times of the year.
Mercury Retrograde is challenging for most and downright deplorable for others. Life fluctuates, and everything seems topsy-turvy when Mercury takes that unwelcome backpedal in our Earthly skies. What are we to do but just hang on and ride out the storm it causes? The answer is not the same for everyone. Let’s break down how Mercury Retrograde affects each sign and the best ways to survive the rollercoaster!
How Each Sign Should Navigate Mercury Retrograde
Mercury Retrograde happens three to four times yearly when Mercury seems to travel backward in our sky. Now, obviously, it is not rotating backward, but as this planet travels so much faster than we do, with an orbit around the Sun taking just 88 days, there are times that Mercury is more or less taunting us to a space race. When the taunting begins, we collectively feel that energy. Below we discuss how each sign feels it and the best ways to handle the jester planet.
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Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Now, Aries, we all know how driven you are and your need for control in your life. Mercury Retrograde hits you hard. During these times of the year, you have to remember that stepping back and taking a breath can be healthy and allow for time to see the bigger picture. Attempt not to act on your aggravation verbally. Take a kickboxing or Krav Maga class to help release some of your fiery energy until Mercury steps back into line.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
As steady as you are, Taurus, even the Retrograde can throw you if you are not prepared. Take a moment to review your current dealings and determine what can be put on the back burner or be handled in a more slow, deliberate way. Take some time to sit with the sentimental side of yourself. Retrograde brings up the past, but nostalgia does not have to be sad. Remember your past with the intent to learn and grow from it.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
You, Gemini, are one of the few signs that may just welcome Mercury Retrograde. With Mercury as your ruling house, the upheaval that these times of year may cause has the potential to propel you forward. You welcome the change of pace and the need to think on your feet. Just remember that this is also a time of massive communication that may not always be taken as intended. Think twice before you speak and fight the urge to reach out to old flames or friends that you cut out for a reason.
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Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Cancers, you take Retrograde especially hard. With the chaos, you may feel raw and vulnerable. Take this time to hunker down at home or in places that make you feel safe. Spend some extra time on self-care and do not attempt to start a new project. Allow close family and friends to help make this time go by faster.
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
You come out looking strong during these times, Leo. The innate knowledge that all will be well lets you shrug off Retrograde better than other signs. Use this time to help those around you and show your more helpful side. As the lion is noble, allow your inner nobility to shine through and guide those going through the ruggedness of Retrograde with grace. You are a born leader, and this is a perfect time to shine.
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Mercury and you are quite the buddies, Virgo. As your ruling planet, communicative Mercury makes your detailedness and wit shine bright. While in Retrograde, it reminds you that you do not always have to go go go. Use this time to breathe and relax. Take a step back and see the big picture of your life instead of being so focused on the next step. This gives you a new perspective and energizes you to push forward toward the life you want when the planet realigns. There are so many benefits to you during this time if you are willing to just breathe.
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Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Libra, you feel Retrograde heavily. As a sign that loves flow and harmony, this timeframe can make you feel very heavy and out of line. Breathe and remember that you are ultimately an Air sign. You are built for changing direction. You got this. If anyone can find the flow within Retrograde, it is you. Do not make any significant changes to your life right now. Fight the urge to redecorate the house or buy a new wardrobe. You may find that you actually hate those items once Mercury goes direct again.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
As the most emotional sign, Mercury throws you for a loop Scorpio. These times of year are especially challenging for you, and you may want to lash out at everyone in your life. While making changes is taken in stride, being TOLD to change is not ok with you. You become more like a raging sea during a storm in Retrograde. Remember, only you can control yourself. Take a second thought before speaking or making commitments. Do not share secrets or try to find them out. This will end badly. Retrograde is better to be spent in reflection and self-care.
Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)
Forward movement is exactly what you are known for, Sagittarius. During Retrograde, you really should attempt to reign that in. Making moves can cause problems for you and will impede your future travels. Use this time to plan and get excited about your next move, but refrain from buying that ticket or signing up for that class just yet. You may find something better once Mercury goes direct again. Check in with your surroundings and find things closer to home to explore. A new park or hike, restaurant, coffee shop, or bookstore can help you find adventure without taking your typical leaps.
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Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)
Always so goal-oriented, you will find progress difficult during Retrograde, Capricorn. You may want to use this time reflecting on how far you have come and commending yourself on the massive success you have already accomplished. Remember that the journey towards the goal holds possibly more success than the actual achievement. Mercury Retrograde allows time to reevaluate and maybe even find a more efficient path to all those goals you are climbing toward.
Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)
Only a few signs can handle Retrograde like you, Aquarius. While this time makes you think outside the box, it can open so much curiosity for you. Looking at old ideas with a new perspective can rejuvenate your goals and add ideas to your always-growing list. You have the potential to enjoy Mercury Retrograde more than any other sign if you allow your curiosity to lead you.
Pisces (February 19 - March 20)
Mercury Retrograde can be either amazing or chaotic for Pisces, a sign that constantly looks both forward and behind. Your enormous amount of empathy allows you to see that those around you are struggling. Remember not to stretch yourself too thin being there for others, and set boundaries appropriately. Retrograde is hectic enough, and if you do not stabilize your energy prior to helping others, it will drain you completely and leave you feeling like you got hit by a truck.
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Mercury Retrograde shines a light on all sign’s vulnerabilities and fears. How each sign handles it is very different and must be looked at with empathy, love, and grace. Be kind to each other during these times as each of us is fighting battles that have been enhanced and force our action and reaction.