If you’ve ever had a friend cancel last-minute, your phone mysteriously stop working, or an ex slide into your DMs out of nowhere, chances are someone has blamed Mercury in retrograde. The phrase gets tossed around in every group chat, often followed by collective groans and an influx of “ugh, that makes sense” replies. But what does it actually mean? And more importantly—should you be worried?
Within astrology, Mercury is considered the planet of communication, and Mercury retrograde has long been thought to spark a period of flux and general chaos, with the astrological phenomenon considered by many to affect everything from your mood to your actions.
Here’s more on Mercury retrograde, including when to anticipate a whole range of mishaps, miscommunications and misunderstandings across communication, news, travel and technology in 2025.
The cosmic confusion
Let’s start with the basics: Mercury retrograde is an astronomical phenomenon that occurs when the planet Mercury appears to move backward in its orbit from our vantage point on Earth. (Key phrase: appears to. It’s not actually reversing direction—just an optical illusion caused by differences in planetary speeds.) This happens three to four times a year, lasting for about three weeks each time.
Astrologically speaking, Mercury governs communication, travel, and technology. So when it’s in retrograde, many believe these areas of life get thrown into chaos—hence the missed flights, email glitches, and awkward text misunderstandings. Is it scientifically proven? Not exactly. But the collective energy shift is enough for people to swear by it.
When is Mercury in retrograde in 2025?
We’ll be getting three servings of Mercury retrograde throughout 2025. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Friday March 14 – Monday April 7, 2025: The first retrograde of 2025 begins in fiery Aries before moving into water sign Pisces on March 29. If you’re an Aries this is a key time to carefully consider any major decision making to ensure you avoid running into issues down the line. Likewise, if you’re a Pisces a little patience will go a long way so try to be as mindful as possible in your day-to-day. Oh, and be aware that pre-retrograde shadow starts on February 28, with post-retrograde shadow finishing off on April 26.
Thursday July 17 – Sunday August 10, 2025: 2025’s second retrograde comes under charismatic fire sign Leo. This is an important time to make sure you’re practising clear communication with loved ones to prevent falling into needless arguments. Take the time to review what you want out of major life choices before rushing in wholeheartedly. Pre-retrograde shadow starts on June 29, with post-retrograde concluding on August 25.
Sunday November 9 – Saturday November 29, 2025: Burn baby, burn! The fiery signs continue to take centre stage for the final 2025 retrograde, with November’s Mercury retrograde starting out in Sagittarius before moving into water sign Scorpio on November 18. This is a period to be particularly conscious of your romantic relationships and doing all you can to prevent any misunderstandings. While its pre-retrograde shadow begins on October 21, it leaves on December 16.
A history of Mercury Retrograde panic
The idea that planetary movements influence our daily lives is far from new. Astrology dates back thousands of years, with civilizations like the Babylonians, Egyptians, and Greeks mapping celestial patterns and attributing meaning to planetary positions. Mercury, named after the Roman messenger god, has long been associated with speech, commerce, and movement. When the planet “reverses,” astrologers argue that these areas of life become turbulent.
The term “Mercury retrograde” became mainstream in the 20th century, with the rise of horoscopes in magazines and newspapers. Over time, it evolved from an astrological concept into a cultural buzzword. Today, it’s so embedded in pop culture that even those who don’t religiously follow astrology find themselves side-eyeing their calendar when things start going wrong.
Why the drama?
Mercury retrograde has earned its villain status in pop culture because it conveniently explains life’s little (and not-so-little) mishaps. Maybe your WiFi crashes right before an important Zoom meeting, or your carefully crafted plans fall apart for no apparent reason. It’s a period where reflection and patience are encouraged, but let’s be real—who has time for that when your Uber is mysteriously rerouted to the wrong side of town?
Even those who don’t follow astrology can’t help but notice when things go awry during these cosmic episodes. And for the astrology-obsessed? It’s practically a personality trait to prepare survival guides for each retrograde cycle. Celebrities, influencers, and brands have even jumped on the trend, offering everything from Mercury retrograde-themed candles to survival kits filled with crystals and sage.
The science vs. the superstition
Skeptics argue that Mercury retrograde is nothing more than a self-fulfilling prophecy. Since people are hyper-aware of the phenomenon, they’re more likely to notice and attribute mishaps to Mercury rather than chance. After all, technological glitches, miscommunications, and travel mishaps happen all year round. Psychologists point to the Baader-Meinhof phenomenon (also known as the frequency illusion), where once you learn about something, you suddenly see it everywhere.
However, some astrologers insist that the planetary pull has a subtle but real impact on our subconscious, influencing how we navigate situations. Whether it’s placebo or planetary power, Mercury retrograde undeniably captures the collective imagination.
Surviving (and thriving) through it
So what’s the best way to deal with Mercury retrograde? Here’s your 29Secrets-approved guide:
- Triple-check everything: Flights, reservations, emails—assume there’s room for error and plan accordingly.
- Avoid signing major contracts: If possible, hold off on big decisions until Mercury goes direct (aka stops the backward illusion).
- Reconnect, don’t restart: It’s a great time to revisit old projects but maybe not the best to rekindle that situationship.
- Embrace the slowdown: Instead of fighting the retrograde energy, lean into it—journal, declutter, and take deep breaths when your AirPods won’t connect (again).
- Be mindful in communication: Think before sending that text, and don’t assume the worst when someone takes longer to reply. Misunderstandings are common during this time.
- Expect the unexpected: Retrograde is notorious for throwing curveballs, so flexibility is your best friend.
The takeaway
At the end of the day, Mercury retrograde might be more of a mindset than a menacing cosmic event. If you choose to believe in its effects, then it’s a perfect time to slow down, double-check details, and reflect. If you don’t, well—at least it makes for a great excuse when things go wrong. So light that candle, grab your crystals, and remember—this too shall pass. Until the next retrograde, of course.
