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Are you aware? Mercury retrograde 2025 started on March 14. Even people who don’t know anything about astrology are whispering about the Mercury retrograde phenomenon.
For Astrology fanatics and the generally superstitious, the phenomenon has become like the Ides of March or Friday the 13th: vague, mysterious, and worrisome.
The irony is that in Greek mythology, the God Mercury ruled communication, commerce, travel, and luck. Sounds good, right? He also rules trickery, thieves, and occultism. I don’t know about you, but he sounds like a pretty interesting dude—practical but with a sense of humor and a spiritual side.
If you think about it, with all those nuances to his character, maybe when the planet named after him goes retrograde, it’s supposed to be more like a riddle or a puzzle than a disaster.
So, before you get all stressed out about mercury in retrograde, let’s do a deep dive into what this phenomenon is really about and what it could mean for you astrologically and spiritually.
The Oxford Dictionary defines the word retrograde as “directed or moving backward.” [1]
In astrology, Mercury retrograde is a phenomenon that occurs 3 times a year when the planet named after the messenger God from Greek mythology seemingly stops its forward progress and retraces its orbit. How long is Mercury in retrograde? Each time Mercury backtracks it usually lasts about 3 weeks.
According to astrologers, the aspects of our lives Mercury governs include business and commerce, messages, communication, travel, and luck. He is also the patron God of thieves, trickery, and the mysterious and arcane knowledge of the occult.
Since Mercury is both the trickster and the scholar, one never knows whether his retrograde antics are to stop us or challenge us to grow despite obstacles. In fact, one of the points of Mercury retrograde is that you need to figure out those answers for yourself.
Astrology charts the paths of retrograde planets as if they were moving backward through the zodiac. For example, the first Mercury retrograde for 2025 has the planet stopping its forward motion between 9 and 10 degrees in the sign of Aries. At that point, it will retrace its steps all the way back to 27 degrees Pisces before it stops and then once again resumes moving forward.
Needless to say, no planet in the solar system ever goes backward. The retrograde phenomenon is an optical illusion that occurs when Mercury passes the Earth when both are moving at different speeds.
The same type of optical illusion also occurs when an express train barrels past a local in the subway. One train appears to be moving backward from the other train’s point of view. Astrology reconciles this optical illusion by plotting Mercury as going backward in the zodiac from our point of view.
The backward theme is also reflected in the way astrologers interpret retrograde planets in a chart. During a retrograde period, a planet’s energy is considered to be the opposite of what it usually would be. Normally, Mercury is an effective communicator, yet during Mercury retrograde, it is common for people to misunderstand one another and speak either inaccurately or way too much.
Yes, but you will likely never get to witness the Earth retrograde because we are standing on it. This is the same reason why there isn’t a symbol for the Earth in an astrological chart. That’s because Western astrology is calculated geocentrically, meaning astrologers view the solar system from the point of view of the Earth.
Depending on the characteristics associated with the planet involved, a retrograde will likely bring about something unexpected.
But that doesn’t mean what happens will necessarily be negative. Sometimes retrograde planetary energies will reveal the truth about ourselves or a situation to us as a result of the difficulties that arise.
For example, a course of action taken during a planetary retrograde may initially yield an unexpected result, which may inadvertently be a blessing in disguise. If you want to learn more about what to expect, a psychic reading may be beneficial.
A planet is considered out of its retrograde shadow when it returns to the spot where it first retrograded.
For example, Mercury started its first retrograde in 2025 at approximately 10 degrees Aries. It will return to its direct motion 13 degrees further back from the position of 27 degrees Pisces. Even though it will be going forward again from 27 degrees Pisces, Mercury will still be in its shadow until it returns to 10 degrees Aries.
Sometimes, remaining in its shadow after resuming direct motion may lengthen the retrograde effects on Mercury.
Astrological interpretation is essentially based on two factors: the planet’s position in the zodiac and the other planets it’s having “conversations” with. The houses determine a planet’s position, and aspects determine the nature of the conversation between different planets.
Let’s take a look at what the different houses symbolize to see what a Mercury placement in each has to work with.
In astrology, Mercury in the Houses refers to the placement of the planet Mercury in one of the twelve astrological houses in a natal chart.
The first house represents the identity and temperament you project to the world, as well as your physical characteristics and health.
This house represents an individual’s possessions and their ability to increase them. On a deeper level, it represents the person’s sense of self-worth.
This house is about your mental abilities, communication style, relationships with siblings, short trips, and those you have an intellectual rather than an emotional relationship with.
This house is called your symbolic foundation and refers to your home, parents (specifically the mother), family, and childhood.
This house is about fun, creativity, romance, and children. It involves expressing intellect through hobbies or artistic pursuits.
This house is about our daily routines, jobs, health, and pets.
This house is about partnerships, both marriage and business and open enemies.
This is the house of death and resurrection, sex, shared resources, other people’s money, and inheritances.
This is the house of philosophy, religion, long journeys, higher education, and publishing.
The highest point in the chart. This house affects career, reputation, and status. Reputation may be tied to communication skills or intellectual achievements.
Great at networking and forming relationships with intellectuals and friends and having the fondest hopes.
This is also the house of restrictions and confinement, secrets, and high spiritual union. It may be synonymous with difficulty expressing thoughts clearly or being secretive about ideas.
In astrology, there are 5 major types of planetary conversations, which are referred to as aspects. The following are the different types of interactions that Mercury can have with other planets while it’s in retrograde.
The planets in opposition are 180 degrees apart on the 360-degree zodiac wheel. This is open communication, which can be either a tug-of-war or a balanced ride on a seesaw.
Planets are 120 degrees apart in a trine and in signs ruled by the same element, like Scorpio and Pisces. A trine represents a nice flowing energy.
Planets squaring are at a right angle in conflicting elements, like air and earth. This is an aspect of either creativity or conflict and usually points to an internal problem that needs to be overcome for further growth.
Planets in sextile are 60 degrees apart and in signs ruled by complementary elements, such as water and earth. These are compatible energies, but work is needed to bring them together.
This is when planets are within 5 degrees of each other in the same sign. It is like locking two people in a closet; you could end up with a murder or a baby.
If you’re wondering what to expect during a Mercury retrograde and how to manage it, you may benefit from a free horoscope reading. Below is a roundup for each zodiac sign.
Mercury’s first retrograde is in the sign of the ram, where he’s brash and outgoing, but he will retreat to Pisces, where he is less confident and more reflective. A project that has started now may need to be rethought.
The second retrograde is entirely in Leo. If you’ve learned your lesson from the first retrograde, things could be full speed ahead, at least for a while. If not, pride could ambush you.
The last retrograde starts in optimistic Sagittarius but then slides into the depths of Scorpio. Now, you must face the truth, but you’re clever, so you’ll figure it out.
The first retrograde in Aries may find you feeling trapped, but when it backs into Pisces, you may discover you have more friends than you realized.
The second retrograde may find you feeling like you want to transform yourself (or your environment). Just try to keep it practical, and don’t overextend yourself.
The last retrograde will find you discovering that someone you thought you could trust wasn’t what they seemed. An old friend may resurface to help you out.
The first retrograde might find you acting unbeatable, but insecurity can only keep that act up for so long. You may fool folks for now.
The second retrograde will have you hearing what you want to hear and seeing what you want to see, and you’ll be riding high as a result.
The last retrograde may catch you completely unaware when it slides from Sag to Scorpio where you may find those that have been saying what you want to hear won’t anymore.
The first retrograde may have you feeling depressed that you’re not getting anywhere in your life. Don’t get down on yourself. This is a good time to plan a new strategy.
The second retrograde may see you focusing on self-improvement. This is a good idea since you only do as good in life as you feel. Go for it.
The last retrograde will complete this year of self-improvement as you decide to focus on health. Surprisingly enough, this may also bring out your creativity.
The first retrograde may find you discovering that the way you’ve been looking at the world needs to change. Trust the advice of a close friend, family member, or lover.
The second retrograde occurs entirely in your sign. This is a transforming time as you experience a total makeover, inside and out.
The last retrograde may bring back an old romance, but you’re not the same person, and you should feel great about that.
The first retrograde might find you needing something that you’re embarrassed to ask for. Don’t hesitate to call on an old friend.
The second retrograde will be a time of soul-searching as you wonder what you have to show for all your efforts. If you can look in the mirror and not flinch, you’ve done better than you think.
The last retrograde may find you having to communicate how you really feel about something or someone close to your heart. If it’s the truth, don’t hesitate.
During the first retrograde, your efforts at work may have made more of an impression on someone than you realize, and for the better.
The second retrograde may put a dream you’ve given up on back within reach. Put together a strategy to grab that brass ring.
The last retrograde may bring a reward you didn’t expect for a past effort. Take the money and run.
During the first retrograde, it may dawn on you that you’ve been devoting your whole life to your job. Listen to a partner and smell the roses for a minute.
The second retrograde may have you rethinking how much you give as opposed to how much you get in return from a person or situation. If it’s not enough, plan to move on.
The last retrograde may see you having a total epiphany regarding what you value in life. If you’re okay with yourself, then you’re okay, no matter what the haters say.
During the first retrograde, you may start out just fooling around with someone, but the feelings that emerge surprise you.
The second retrograde might see you rethinking your responsibilities to others, especially if you now have new needs of your own.
The last retrograde might see you ready to embark upon a journey within that you weren’t willing to take previously. Don’t worry, the timing is right.
During the first retrograde, you might feel compelled to question a long-held belief involving your roots. You’ll feel vulnerable doing so, but the truth will set you free.
The second retrograde may make you realize that if you’re not following your bliss, you’re following the wrong thing.
The third retrograde may find you fantasizing about an experience that will transform you for the better if you’re willing to take a chance.
The first retrograde may find you wanting to explore new ideas that you don’t have the resources for, at least not yet.
The second retrograde may find you taking the leadership role in a partnership because otherwise, you won’t get what you want.
The final retrograde may find you suddenly on the verge of control in a career situation where you previously felt held back.
The first retrograde may find you surprised at how much more assertive you’re managing to be without feeling nervous about it.
The second retrograde may find you thinking about some things you’d like to improve about yourself, such as your health or a routine that’s become boring.
The third retrograde may find you considering making a commitment to what you really want regardless of the difficulty.
The best way to deal with a Mercury retrograde is to pay attention to details and don’t take anything for granted. Re-confirm plans ahead of time, leave earlier than you usually would for work or an appointment, and double-check addresses, phone numbers, and schedules.
Be more measured in your conversations. Think before you speak and listen, listen, listen.
Taking a few extra moments each day to meditate during a Mercury retrograde is also a good idea for keeping your head screwed on straight and your emotions calm.
And remember, any challenges a Mercury retrograde presents will ultimately make you better, especially if you can laugh along with Mercury at what was needed to bring out the best in you.
It is important to remember that a Mercury retrograde is ultimately a spiritual experience, even if it seems more like a logistical nightmare. Here are some steps you can take to help process whatever you may go through during the challenge of a Mercury retrograde.
Reflect on what happened. How were you challenged? What was really at stake? How much of what went on was really out of your hands? Does it seem important now? Could some of the difficulties you experienced have been avoided?
Assess what your actual difficulties were. Are you proud of the way you reacted? Could you have done better? If the answer is yes, start trying to do better moving forward.
What did you learn about yourself? Were you surprised at what you’re capable of, both negatively and positively? Do you see the benefit of what you experienced?
What needs to change within you to better handle yourself and the world when things aren’t working out, and you have to keep on going?
Congratulations. You’ve survived a Mercury retrograde. Now, you’ll only have to go through 3 more each year for the rest of your life. So, what is the purpose of it all? One way to look at it is that 3 intense weeks of things going wrong will make you a lot savvier when it comes to negotiating the normal things that always go wrong.
In essence, Mercury retrograde is a crash course in rolling with the punches, learning, and being better for it.
What does Mercury in retrograde mean as opposed to the planet being direct? According to an article on the Astrodienst website, Astrologer Rebecca M. Farrar describes it this way: “Mercury, going forward, is about details and everyday thinking. Mercury retrograde loves contemplating the big picture and exercising intuitive perception. For people born with Mercury retrograde, an intuitive mindset comes more naturally” [2].
One of the reasons Mercury retrograde affects people more than the retrogrades of other planets according to the astrologer Robert Hand, is because Mercury is the everyday routine. It signifies the nature of your casual interchange with the world around you. When that routine is disrupted, it can really throw us for a loop [3].
When is Mercury retrograde in 2025? When is Mercury retrograde over? These are some of the most popular questions around the subject. Here are more common questions customers are asking about Mercury.
According to astrologers, Mercury retrograde can affect us by causing communication difficulties, technical glitches, misunderstandings, and transportation difficulties in our daily lives.
Some of the things professional astrologers warn against doing during a Mercury retrograde are starting new projects, signing contracts, traveling, and making major life decisions.
While some retrograde planets are believed to cause disruptions, like Mercury retrograde, generally, a retrograde planet will make you more introspective, reflective, and thoughtful.
In a spiritual context, a retrograde planet will usually stimulate you to reflect more on your life in regard to the things around you affected by that planet. For example, a retrograde Venus will make you contemplate love, while a retrograde Mercury may make you reflect on the success (or lack thereof) synonymous with your business dealings.
Mercury retrograde may affect you by making you more forgetful or cause you to overlook important details in your daily life. Mercury retrograde is also commonly thought to affect transportation, which could make you late for appointments or end up missing them altogether.
Astrologers believe that the energies of the planets have important effects on certain aspects of our lives. When the energy of a planet like Mercury is in retrograde, the areas it affects, like our business dealings or travel plans, can often be disrupted. In some cases, contracts will end up causing problems, or travel itineraries will become seriously delayed.
So, what is Mercury retrograde ultimately about? People love having something to blame for their difficulties, but to look at Mercury retrograde as a culprit is missing the point.
Astrologers believe that the planetary energy of Mercury has a strong sway over things like our communications, businesses, and travel. They also believe that when Mercury is in retrograde, our spiritual outlook is challenged, and things we take for granted suddenly become unexpectedly difficult. That’s precisely when we are also being offered a chance for spiritual growth.
A famous philosopher once wrote: “What doesn’t kill me makes me stronger.” Perhaps what Mercury retrograde is trying to show us is that whatever doesn’t drive you crazy when it breaks motivates you to be more patient, flexible, and creative.
Namaste!
1. Oxford Languages and Google, the definition of the word “retrograde” https://languages.oup.com/google-dictionary-en/
Mercury Retrograde Cycles And The Astrology Of Intuition, Farrar, Rebecca M. Astrodienst online magazine 2023. https://www.astro.com/astrology/in_rfmercuryrx_e.htm
2. Planets In Transit: Life Cycles For Living Hand, Robert. Whitford Press 2001 https://www.amazon.com/Planets-Transit-Life-Cycles-Living/dp/0924608269/ref=sr_1_1?
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