While it looks like it’s stopped travelling from east to west, at no point does Mercury actually start going backwards.

Within astrology, Mercury is considered the planet of communication, so it’s thought that when it goes into retrograde we can expect a whole range of mishaps, miscommunications and misunderstandings across communication, news, travel and technology.

Pre and post-retrograde shadow periods

(AKA Mercury retroshade)

But the fun doesn’t stop with Mercury retrograde!

Prior to the phenomenon is what’s known as a pre-retrograde shadow period, with a post-retrograde shadow likewise following its conclusion.

Occurring in the two weeks before and after a retrograde begins and concludes, these shadow periods, otherwise known as Mercury retroshade, see the planet slows down as it prepares to enter retrograde and speed up as it leaves its backward motion behind.

These periods are an apt time to look back on recent issues with a clearer mind and seize the chance to focus on yourself. See this as an opportunity to take stock, be patient and set yourself up for the rest of the year and by the time post-retrograde shadows ends you could be in a much better place.

When is Mercury in retrograde in 2025?

We’ll be getting three servings of Mercury retrograde in 2025. Here’s what you can look forward to:

2025’s first retrograde (past):

14 March – 7 April: The first retrograde of 2025 begins in fiery Aries before moving into water sign Pisces on 29 March. If you’re an Aries this is a key time to carefully consider any major decision making to ensure you avoid running into issues down the line. Likewise, if you’re a Pisces a little patience will go a long way so try to be as mindful as possible in your day-to-day. Oh, and be aware that pre-retrograde shadow starts on 28 February, with post-retrograde shadow finishing off on 26 April.

Current retrograde:

17 July – 10 August: 2025’s second retrograde comes under charismatic fire sign Leo. This is an important time to make sure you’re practising clear communication with loved ones to prevent falling into needless arguments. Take the time to review what you want out of major life choices before rushing in wholeheartedly. Pre-retrograde shadow starts on 29 June, with post-retrograde concluding on 25 August.

The final Mercury retrograde of 2025:

9 – 29 November: Burn baby, burn! The fiery signs continue to take centre stage for the final 2025 retrograde, with November’s Mercury retrograde starting out in Sagittarius before moving into water sign Scorpio on 18 November. This is a period to be particularly conscious of your romantic relationships and doing all you can to prevent any misunderstandings. While its pre-retrograde shadow begins on 21 October, it leaves on 16 December.