Mercury retrograde has come around again, and it’s time to reflect on the progress you’re making in 2025.
A few times each year, Mercury appears to reverse its direction in the sky—a regular planetary phenomenon dubbed a ‘retrograde’. Astrologers believe the backward movement of a planet can disrupt life in the areas governed by said planet. In the case of Mercury—the planet of travel, communication and intellect—it can wreak havoc on your daily commute, muddy your thoughts or summon exes sliding into your DMs.
But is there truth to the astrology? Here’s what you need to know to understand—and prepare—for a Mercury retrograde.
What is Mercury retrograde?
The term ‘retrograde’ refers to the backwards motion of a planet. But Mercury isn’t actually moving in reverse! Planets can appear retrograde from earth, but they do continue to orbit the sun in a forward manner. However, it’s Mercury’s speed, which is four times faster than Earth’s, that can occasionally give us the illusion that it’s going the other way.
Named after the Roman god Mercury, the planet rules over information, transportation, commerce, and technology: some of the most important aspects of everyday modern life. Therefore, during a Mercury retrograde, your gadgets could start acting up, your car could break down, you could miss a flight, or—due to communication breakdowns—you might even end up fighting with your nearest and dearest!
When is Mercury retrograde in 2025?
The next Mercury retrograde will happen in Australia between July 18 and August 11. This is a reminder that even though some report Mercury retrograde beginning on July 17, 2025 this is not the case for our local time zone in Australia. To find the right day and time, consult an ephemeris which charts the dates and planetary positions. Or, check the below!
Here are all the Australian dates for Mercury Retrogrades in 2025:
- March 15 to April 7 in Aries and Pisces
- July 18 to August 11 in Leo
- November 10 to 30 in Sagittarius and Scorpio
How is Mercury retrograde affecting me?
In astrology, Mercury retrograde can influence your moods, thoughts and wellbeing. Some would swear it brings them misfortune, a lack of clarity and delayed flights! However, it isn’t all upset and confusion—more often, it’s a challenge and reminder to slow down, reset and practice a bit of patience.
This retrograde (July and August 2025) is occurring in the sign of Leo—the zodiac that’s all about personal expression and confidence. Therefore, this retrograde could see you feeling a little smaller than usual. Don’t be surprised if you’re misunderstood or feel misrepresented during this time—this could be a time to reflect on what you value and how you live that truth, so to speak. And on that note, take a beat before jumping to your own conclusions about others.
To see precisely how it’s affecting you, check your star sign and astrology chart to find the corresponding house through which Mercury is retrograding. You can also read the below section on the signs most affected.
What signs are affected by Mercury retrograde in 2025?
The signs most affected during the 2025 July and August Mercury retrograde will be those with aspects to Leo. This means the signs of Aries, Sagittarius, Gemini, Libra, Aquarius and, of course, Leo! To see how it affects you, check your sun (also known as your star sign) and rising signs.
Mercury retrograde horoscopes for July and August 2025:
- Aries: This retrograde occurs in your 5th house of romance and creativity, meaning the Mercury retrograde could affect your ability to think and express yourself clearly.
- Taurus: This retrograde affects your 6th house of health and fitness, be sure your stretch before and after your workouts this month, and take plenty of rest to support your mental wellbeing.
- Gemini: Your relationships are in the firing line this retrograde. Check yourself before diving into a fight with your partner or loved ones.
- Cancer: Your shared life—particularly finances or intimacy—could be an issue this month. Check in with your partner and try and work together. Some things aren’t meant to be achieved solo.
- Leo: We know you want to get away this month, but if you’re travelling during the Mercury retrograde, be both extra prepared and extra patient because you could find your plans disrupted.
- Virgo: Stay patient with yourself and others at work, and make sure you communicate clearly—preferably in person as opposed to email.
- Libra: The group chat is about to pop off. Don’t dig yourself too far deep into the drama—take that time out, if needed.
- Scorpio: You might find things coming to a natural end this retrograde. It could be dragged out or sudden, just be kind to yourself and take the opportunity to reflect and reset.
- Sagittarius: You may not appear to be yourself during this retrograde, but don’t let your self-confidence take the hit. It’s your time to sit back and take stock of what makes you, you!
- Capricorn: Keep a check on your finances this retrograde, Capricorn. Make sure your online banking is secure and avoid unnecessary spending.
- Aquarius: You are known to shut down, Aquarius, and this is a month you’ll want to be extra clear in your comms. If things feel murky, try journalling to get to the heart of the matter.
- Pisces: You might find yourself at the end of your tether during Mercury retrograde in July and August. Rest up and partake in your favourite self care ritual.
What does Mercury retrograde mean for relationships?
Mercury retrograde is often associated with the sudden reappearance of your ex. But this is only one example of how a Mercury retrograde can affect your relationships.
The idea of resurgent exes during a Mercury retrograde comes from the planet governing themes of communication, technology and clear thought. Combining these things, astrologers have then asked, ‘who might be the least ideal or most confusing person to send you a text or slide into your DMs during this time?’ For some, the answer could be an ex.
Beyond that, Mercury’s influence on communications is the most likely culprit of relationship strife during a retrograde. Mercury retrograde spells miscommunication for many. And—as most of us will attest—not communicating clearly can cause chaos in even the sturdiest relationship.
Many astrologers suggest taking a breath (or a break) before diving into conflicts during a Mercury retrograde—especially if they’re playing out via text or other technologies.
What to do during a Mercury retrograde
If you want a summary of what to do (and not do) during a Mercury retrograde, here’s what the astrologers might say.
Do not:
- Hastily sign contracts
- Start big, new projects
- Make snide jabs
- Buy gadgets or cars without insurance
- Message your ex
- Argue or debate
- Make strict travel plans (leave a buffer!)
Do:
- Meditate
- Exercise or do yoga
- Take some time off
- Consult tarot or a trusted person for clarity
- Read a book
- Make art or music that makes you feel relaxed
- Connect with loved ones in real life, versus via technology
- Enter your travel arrangements with patience
Is Mercury retrograde real?
While there’s no scientific evidence proving that Mercury retrograde directly affects us, no one has debunked it just yet.
The concept of a Mercury retrograde affecting life on earth began with the early astronomers. Historian of ancient science Mathieu Ossendrijver tells National Geographic it likely started with the Babylonian astronomers around the 7th Century B.C. These ancient astronomers observed the stars, and recorded their correlations and happenings. This included the observation that Mercury looked like it was slowing down and moving backwards.
In these times, the planets represented the acts of the Gods. So, unusual happenings on Earth were often prescribed meaning in accordance to whatever the stars and planets were up to.
This underpins the practice of astrology—the system which collates and communicates these events. As many astrologers will say, the practice of astrology—and indeed the events of a Mercury retrograde—are not an exact science, but are open to interpretation.
