Mercury represents our mind. When this impactful planet goes retrograde, we find ourselves reflecting on the past, which often leads to overthinking and misperceptions. Living in the past also prevents us from being mindful in the present moment. As a result, our restless minds make mistakes. The best way to navigate Mercury retrograde is to embrace it. We acknowledge that we are imperfect and that there is beauty in our imperfection.

Last year, I planned a long-distance trip during Mercury retrograde and encountered several difficulties, including missing my flight and booking a terrible hotel—even after extensive research. This year, I’m committed to being more mindful of Mercury retrograde periods and avoiding major plans during these weeks. As soon as I returned from that trip, I wrote down several lessons learned. In this blog, I will share them with you.

What to Be Mindful of During Mercury Retrograde

• Practicing patience and avoiding impulsive actions.
• Thinking with logic and practicality.
• Exercising caution in interactions to prevent miscommunication.
• Avoiding scheduling major events during these periods.
• Being kind to ourselves when we make honest mistakes.
• Integrating the lessons learned.
• Honoring our mental need to reflect on the past.
• Reminding ourselves that “rejection is redirection.”

Mercury Retrograde periods in 2025:

March 15 to April 17

This retrograde occurs between the signs of Pisces and Aries. Mercury enters the pre-retrograde shadow period on March 1 in Pisces and officially turns retrograde in Aries on March 15. As it moves backward, Mercury re-enters Pisces before finally going direct on April 15. The post-retrograde shadow ends on April 26.

June 18 to August 11

The second Mercury retrograde of the year takes place in Leo. The pre-retrograde shadow period begins on June 30, with Mercury turning retrograde on July 18. It goes direct on August 11, but we may continue to feel its effects until August 25.

November 9 to November 29

This retrograde moves between Sagittarius and Scorpio. The shadow period begins on October 21 in Scorpio, but Mercury turns retrograde on November 9 in Sagittarius. As it moves backward, it re-enters Scorpio before going direct on November 29.

👉 Download the image on your phone so you can refer to it when planning important dates in 2025.

Why Do We Take the Pre- and Post-Mercury Retrograde Periods Seriously?

The pre- and post-retrograde periods occur when Mercury slows down as it prepares to enter or exit retrograde. During these times, we experience similar challenges to those of the retrograde itself, often for about two weeks before and after the main retrograde period.

Do you have any tips for navigating Mercury retrograde that I missed? Share them in the comments!

Subscribe to receive my latest astrological insights and monthly calendar straight to your inbox!