What This Mercury Retrograde Means For Your Zodiac Sign

Thought things were starting to slow down? Think again! November has been jam-packed from an astrological perspective. The third and final Mercury retrograde cycle of 2018 has begun, and we’re assuming brace position for all sorts of travel, technology, and communication mayhem. The vibe of this retrograde? As it’s mostly passing through the season of the fire sign Sagittarius, the effects of this Rx will be felt at its strongest by Sagittarius, Gemini, Virgo, and Pisces.

But as much as it gets a bad rap, Mercury retrograde is actually a great time for insight, connection, and reflection. “It’s the universe reminding us to slow down and rest three times a year,” explains Rebecca Gordon, top astrologer, author, and founder of My Path Astrology. “We all need time for reflection, as well as action. We’re not meant to be running full speed ahead all 365 days of the year.” She explains that Mercury retrograde is a time to rework things, to retreat, and to recharge before facing the forward motion of life again. “When you do these types of things that start with ‘re,’ you actually avoid all of the other Mercury Rx mishaps that it’s so well known for,” she says.

Running from November 16 to December 6, this retrograde provides the opportunity to pick up ideas and thoughts from the previous cycle and to bring these into the Sagittarius realm of more overt communications. “Mercury Rx is one of the easiest ways to see how the planets affect our everyday lives, and most people cannot argue with the effects of Mercury Rx — we all experience them,” says Gordon, noting that it affects each of us differently. “Based on your zodiac sign, the Rx will take effect in a different area of your birth chart,” she continues. “Make sure to read for your rising sign, too.” (This is the sign that was rising over the Eastern horizon when you were born. To calculate it, you need to know what time you were born — exact if possible, but approximate if not.)

Prefer a cheat sheet? Here’s a breakdown of what this Mercury retrograde has in store based on your zodiac sign.

Aries

Reconnect with a teacher or mentor from your past. They will likely have lots to share with you and insight that will help guide you through a current challenge.

Taurus

It’s time to review your joint agreements in business and make sure you are all on the same page. There could be some key financial points to review as well.

Gemini

Your closest partnership is needing some extra TLC this retrograde. Perhaps there was a miscommunication that needs to be clarified or a disagreement that was left unresolved. Spend time with your partner to clear things up.

Cancer

This retrograde will ask you to focus on your physical health and make any necessary changes to your diet, exercise, and self-care routine.

Leo

Love and intimacy take center stage during this Mercury retrograde. A lover from the past may reach out or you may connect with someone new; however, this does not necessarily mean a new start. Enjoy it for what it is.

Virgo

Mercury spends time in both the home and family sector of your birth chart, so now is an ideal time to bond with any family members you may not see so often.

Libra

Wires can easily get crossed in communication so make sure you are extra clear, especially when getting directions at work. It may be time to rethink your communication style.

Scorpio

Take a review of your spending habits as you will do well to realign your investments with what you actually value.

Sagittarius

When Mercury is retrograde in Sagittarius, it is your time to take a break and hit that reset button on your own life. Take the opportunity to connect with your passions.

Capricorn

Meditation will be essential for you this retrograde, as it seems you will be releasing old behaviors, patterns, and habits.

Aquarius

Friends from your past may re-enter the scene, and it can be a stellar month to spend time with an old pal around the holidays. Just remember when to say ‘no.’