Another Mercury retrograde is upon us. In case you're still dealing with the aftermath of February’s backward spin, take a breath and release any lingering frustration. Yes, the astrological excuse for drama is back with an emotional angle—be cautious before opening Pandora's Box, no matter how curious you are.
Mercury retrograde, everyone’s excuse for turning in homework late, flirting with exes, and miscellaneous mishaps, is rearing its pincers in Cancer. From June 29 (the same day as the chaotic Strawberry Full Moon in Capricorn) to July 23, the water sign is back, splashing in the nostalgic waves of summer, tugging at our heartstrings, testing our moods (which will change every few days in alignment with the lunar signs and phases, since Cancer is ruled by the Moon), and making us forgetful. Do not forget to pack SPF and a charger for your phone before leaving the house.
Just so you're aware Mercury isn't actually moving in the opposite direction of Earth. It's an optical illusion resulting from the planet's listless movement. Basically, Mercury is slacking off and making our lives complicated. Also, the retrograde isn't all bad. We have the opportunity to re-envision and reshape our lives. Mercury wants us to slow down, as it is, so use these weeks to focus on enjoyable activities. If you prefer lounging poolside, reading a book, or riding roller coasters—go for it. The objective is to re-center and take stock of what brings us joy.
While the planet of communication, travel, and technology slows down, the cosmos is reminding us to calm ourselves. This isn't the moment to take on more, but rather the time to reflect and reclaim our power. Tears will be shed, so cry out residual sentiments that have been building up. The cathartic response and release will relieve internal and external pressures. Get cozy and find your chill through summer’s Mercurial storm.
Don't blame the messenger, but there are other planetary retrogrades at the same time. Pluto retrograde in Aquarius is still making us fight for our voice to be heard, and Neptune in Aries begins its yearly backpedal, suggesting that we reimagine our dreams. The combination of these three planets (including Mercury) is pushing us to be cognizant of our innate desires and to take note of who brings positivity into our lives.
A moment of resolve occurs on July 12, from the Sun and Mercury retrograde's “cazimi” aspect. “Cazimi” is the Latin term for when the Sun lends its incredible strength to another planet by forming a conjunction. In this case, Mercury retrograde is able to function better. It's an auspicious day to manifest, set goals, go out on a date, and be merry.
FYI: The pre-retrograde shadow began on June 13, when Venus roared into Leo, setting the stage for the prideful and relationship-oriented themes of this orbit. The post-retrograde zone lasts until August 6 (when romantic planet Venus moves into Libra, softening our sentiments), so we’ll be rehashing matters until then, proving it'll be a cruel summer.
Read your Mercury retrograde horoscope below:
Aries
March 21 - April 19
How you plant and define your roots is subjective. Instead of having a structural sense of what a foundation is and what it means to you, evaluate how you can craft your own sanctuary and choose to define it in your own terms. The physical constructs are not significant, as it's more of a spiritual and emotional assessment. Home is wherever you are.
Taurus
April 20 - May 20
Before assuming the worst, ask questions to ensure your friends have your best interests at heart. You do not want to make a mountain out of a molehill over a simple miscommunication that could turn intense. If there is a text that needs clarification, ask them to explain their words and describe their feelings better.
Gemini
May 21 - June 20
Before checking out of your online shopping cart, make sure you don't overspend on nonessential items. It's important to note that this particular Mercury retrograde isn't the best time to go on a spree, as you may end up making a few exchanges or depleting your bank account. Budgeting is necessary to ensure you are staying within your financial means.
Cancer
June 21 - July 22
Letting down your guard and being vulnerable with others is beautiful and beneficial. While you fluctuate between being offensive and defensive, make it a point to act in a way that is best for you. There is no box in which your sentiments can be kept. Regardless of the consequences—good or bad—own your feelings. Be true to yourself!
Leo
July 23 - August 22
You're a natural extrovert; however, you are seeking solitude and going inward as you focus on your desires. Relish in the weeks away from the scene to contemplate your feelings and plot your next moves. By the time you re-emerge in the mix, you'll have a lot of plans that you are manifesting and cultivating for the present and future.
Virgo
August 23 - September 22
It will be challenging to articulate explicitness and punctuality with your squad—they might run late to meet you, forget to return your call promptly, and flake at the last second. The key is not to let these minor annoyances, which juxtapose with your rigid Virgo-ness, get you down and create conflict. Approach the issue with TLC for all parties involved.
Libra
September 23 - October 22
Always one to help, you're giving too much to assisting management at your summer gig. People at your internship might take your kindness for weakness, leading them to make extreme demands that aren't within your purview. Set the boundary to avoid being taken advantage of by explaining that you must stick to the exact routines and guidelines set for you.
Scorpio
October 23 - November 21
You have a tendency to ruminate over situations over and over. Unfortunately, Mercury’s backward spin doesn't offer much reprieve—it accelerates this sentiment. Rather than spin out, take a breath and journal your feelings. Doing so will help you find peace, think things through analytically, and consider strategies for dealing with the matter. As a result, you'll have clarity and comprehension.
Sagittarius
November 22 - December 21
Since you rely on directness and verities, it'll be a drastic change to switch gears and rely on your intuition to uncover hidden facts. As long as you recognize that your innate gifts are allowing you to actualize and realize your circumstances, you'll be ready to take charge of your destiny. Pay attention to the signs the universe is showing you.
Capricorn
December 22 - January 19
Committed sea goats: There may be a few flags about your significant other that are nagging at you, causing you to step back and understand how you wish to proceed. Single sea goats: A former crush is unbenching themselves. If they've grown, then you should chat, but they could show the same immature signs, so leave their messages on read.
Aquarius
January 20 - February 18
Stop stressing over what you cannot control. Surrender to the possibilities that life throws curveballs ever so often, and you have to serenely go with the flow. There are always going to be a million reasons why you should or should not pursue a passion project or relationship. Still, the roadblocks and obstacles are temporary and easy to work around.
Pisces
February 19 - March 20
Currently, a hindrance to your artistry and imagination is pushing your frustrations to the surface and heightening them. Find inspiration for ventures and motivation to complete them by reconnecting with old ideas and adding a unique or modern twist. By looking back, you can realign with the vibes that help you achieve your greatness. A fresh perspective is immensely gratifying.
