When The Planets Hits Pause: What the Return of Mercury Retrograde Means for Us

If your emails are going astray, your tech is acting up, or you’ve accidentally texted the wrong person… congratulations — Mercury is in retrograde again.

The infamous astrological event is back for its final round of 2025, running from November 9 to November 29, moving from fiery Sagittarius into deep and reflective Scorpio. Whether you’re an astrology devotee or simply notice things feel a little “off,” here’s everything you need to know about why Mercury retrograde affects us - and how to make it work in your favour.

// What Is Mercury Retrograde, Anyway?

Mercury retrograde happens when the planet Mercury appears to move backwards in the sky. It’s not actually reversing - it’s an optical illusion caused by the way Earth and Mercury orbit the sun.

Astrologically, Mercury rules communication, technology, travel, and our mental processes - basically, all the things that keep modern life running smoothly. When it goes “retrograde,” these areas can feel a little scrambled. Emails get lost, phones glitch, flights are delayed, and misunderstandings run wild.

But before you roll your eyes and blame Mercury for every small disaster, remember: this isn’t all bad news. Retrogrades aren’t meant to punish us — they’re cosmic pauses that remind us to slow down, reflect, and realign.

// Why This Retrograde Feels Different

Because this retrograde begins in Sagittarius - a sign linked to truth, freedom, and expansion - and drifts back into Scorpio, which rules transformation and emotional depth, this cycle invites us to look beneath the surface.

Expect themes of honesty, closure, and reflection to rise up. Old conversations may resurface. Projects might stall so you can refine them. People from the past could reappear (yes, that ex or former colleague). It’s all part of Mercury’s plan to help us tie up loose ends before 2026 arrives.

// How to Handle Mercury Retrograde Like a Pro

1. Triple-check everything.

Before hitting send, re-read your message. Back up your files. Double-confirm meeting times and travel plans. Mercury loves a mix-up — stay one step ahead.

2. Avoid major launches or contracts.

If possible, hold off on signing deals or making big commitments until Mercury goes direct after November 29. Instead, use this time to review and polish existing plans.

3. Expect travel and tech delays.

Keep your phone charged, your files saved in the cloud, and your patience stocked. Delays don’t have to derail your day — they might just slow you down enough to notice what matters.

4. Reconnect and reflect.

Retrogrades are great for “re” words: revisit, reconnect, re-organise, reflect. Call an old friend, clear your inbox, rethink your goals, or refresh your skincare routine.

5. Prioritise self-care.

Retrograde periods can feel mentally heavy, so ground yourself. Take breaks from screens, get outside, journal, or indulge in a calming beauty ritual. Think of it as a mini-digital detox gifted by the universe.

// When Mercury Goes Direct

Mercury stations direct on November 29, but don’t rush - astrologers call the following two weeks the shadow period, when the retrograde effects gradually fade. By mid-December, expect clarity, smoother communication, and fresh momentum just in time for a new year.

Mercury retrograde doesn’t have to be a cosmic catastrophe. It’s simply a reminder to slow down and be intentional. Instead of resisting the chaos, lean into the pause: re-evaluate, recharge, and realign.

Think of it as the universe’s way of saying, “Take a breath - you’ll thank me later.”