Mercury Retrograde ☿ Summer 2024

artist: Arthur Rackham

Mercury in Leo: July 2-25

Mercury in Virgo: July 25 – Aug 4

Mercury Retrograde in Virgo: Aug 4-14

Mercury Retrograde in Leo: Aug 14-28

Mercury in Leo: Aug 28 – Sep 9

Mercury in Virgo: Sep 9-26

Planets in retrograde are not spinning backwards; retrograde motion is an optical illusion as seen from Earth. In astrology, this manifests as a backwards or inverted function of the planets. Click here to learn more about retrograde.

Mercury turns retrograde three times a year, more frequently than any other planet. Mercury represents communication, travel, and technology. These realms are most affected during Mercury Retrograde. Expect delays, cancellations, and sudden changes; technological failures, especially cell phones, laptops, or automobiles; miscommunication; lost/stolen items; general malfunction and wtf moments. I do not recommend starting a new job, buying a car, moving to a new place, or signing important contracts/documents. This is not a good time for travel, life-altering commitments, or financial investments.

Mercury Retrograde cycles have beneficial aspects, too. For example, Mercury Retrograde helps us circle back and finish forgotten or ignored projects, especially projects related to work, language, creativity, or education. Mercury also brings communication to the fore in a healthy way and helps strengthen our relationships.

The first 10 days of this cycle take place in Virgo and the last week in Leo. Mercury rules Virgo, so this planet is “at home” here. Virgo Season represents the apex of the astrological year so it’s a bit inconvenient to have Mercury Retrograde arrive at the same time. Virgo is the hour of harvest; the hour before the equinox; the hour of returning to work and school. It is preparatory and highly mobile in nature. Virgo is objective and productive. Now is the time to prune, sort, clear, and warmly welcome responsibility back into our lives.

Virgo pulses in hypnotic, repetitive motions, immersed in her hands and body as they work and cut, pull and harvest, chaff and sew. This retrograde period will teach us how to juggle, and thereby fall into a moving trance.

Virgo’s energy is also alert and attentive, if not anxious. We will be easily frustrated now by inevitable obstacles we encounter on our path. Analyze each situation with total objectivity for best results. The most important thing is how we react. Focus on the big picture, avoid losing yourself needlessly in the details. Get lots of rest to combat Virgo’s infamous nervous energy. If you’re feeling rushed or anxious, take a break, breathe.

Mercury Retrograde in Virgo is far less refined than your average Virgo moment. It is very easy to become a control freak and start running around like crazy. Remember this: not everything will go as planned. You will not be able to attend to every detail or keep everything just how it is. Things will change, plans will have to be revised. This transit is a test of flexibility and adaptability.

Virgo also rules health, nutrition, work, medicine, and service. In fact, Virgo is so good at being a helpful host/manager/parent/partner that she will work and serve until she is absolutely exhausted. My best advice for Virgos is always this: slow down and take care of yourself. Spend time alone. The world will keep on turning if you sleep an extra hour. Make yourself some dank food. Stay hydrated.

Mercury Retrograde in Leo follows with a fiery, vivacious boost of energy. Each summer, Leo’s golden influence brings romance and laughter. Leo’s energy is warm and empowering. Leo is ruled by the sun. His vibe is bright, colorful, and form-like, a soft, pillowy rainbow cube that can be held and played with and chewed on and hugged.

Mercury Retrograde in Leo restores our self-esteem and fills our mind with new creative ideas. Let’s dance sensually and light up the night. Let’s spend more time creating, luxuriating, building up our inner world. It’s time to express ourselves in a free, organic, exuberant way.

Mercury (Retrograde) in Leo is also a time to face ourselves, our identity, our stories and narrative. Yes, Leo can be loud and arrogant, but this is just for the crowd. Inside, in the silence of the dome of self, Leo is well aware of his imperfections. He works hard to tame the flames, to be more humble. And he’s here so that you can fall in love with yourself! Leo will show you just how lovable you are. You are lovable.

If you were born with Mercury in Leo or Virgo, you’re in for an interesting Mercury Return. To determine your Mercury sign and whether this planet was direct or retrograde when you were born, click here.

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