We’re approaching the final Mercury retrograde of the year, and we hate to be the bearer of bad news, but the last one of the year is infamous for being the messiest of all.
From miscommunications with friends to tech glitches, travel headaches, and just an overall sense of “ugh,” whilst yes, it’s notorious to blame this chaotic time of year, it’s also the time when Mercury appears to move backward in the sky.
This period can amplify misunderstandings, resurrect old conflicts, and create delays in everything.
If you’ve been wondering why your emails disappear, your phone won’t work properly, or even your coffee seems underwhelming, now you know — the stars are not in your favour right now.
Scroll on for everything you need to know about Mercury retrograde and when you can finally breathe a sigh of relief.
What is Mercury retrograde?
Mercury retrograde refers to the period of time in which Mercury moves more slowly than the Earth around the sun.
Mercury, the planet closest to the Sun, normally completes its orbit in just 88 days — far quicker than Earth’s 365-day journey.
Because of this difference, there are times when Mercury appears to slow down from our perspective on Earth.
When this happens, an optical illusion makes it seem like Mercury is moving backward in the sky.
What’s actually occurring is Mercury passing behind the Sun while lapping Earth on the inside, creating the illusion that it’s changing direction.
In astrology, Mercury rules communication, so when it goes into retrograde, it’s said to trigger miscommunications.
Is Mercury in retrograde?
Chances are, you have already felt Mercury in retrograde.
So a big Yes! It kicked off on Sunday, November 9, in Sagittarius.
Mercury will shift back into Scorpio on Tuesday, November 18, before finally going direct on Saturday, November 29.
What signs are heavily affected by Mercury retrograde in 2025?
The signs feeling Mercury retrograde the most in 2025 are Sagittarius and Scorpio during the final retrograde from November 9–29, along with Gemini and Virgo, since Mercury is the ruling planet of these signs.
What to do when Mercury is in retrograde
Mercury retrograde affects everyone differently, but there are ways to navigate this tricky period more smoothly.
Above all, remember that the potential chaos is theorised, and being more conscious of changes can actually make you feel more off-balance than intended (so don’t overthink it).
Staying calm, rolling with the punches, and avoiding potential mishaps will help you handle unexpected twists with ease.
Pay extra attention to communication and consider holding off on major conversations until Mercury is direct again.
Give yourself flexibility with schedules or deadlines to accommodate hiccups.
Use this time to reflect on where you’re investing your energy, whether in work, relationships, or hobbies, and check that your balance aligns with what truly matters to you.
When does Mercury retrograde end?
In Australia, the final Mercury retrograde of 2025 ends on Saturday, November 29, at 11:38 p.m. AEDT / 10:38 p.m. AEST, when Mercury goes direct and starts moving forward again.
