This year, you will need to be extremely mindful when managing all these technical tasks during the holidays, as Mercury retrograde begins on November 25 and brings nearly three weeks of its usual mental confusion and communication slip-ups. The timing isn’t ideal, but knowing what to expect can help you handle everything gracefully.
Before we get into the specifics of the November Mercury retrograde, let’s review what these backspins mean in general. In astrology, Mercury is the planet that governs communication, timing, thought, technology devices, and logistical issues of nearly all kinds.
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Several times a year, it goes retrograde — which means it starts to move backward through the zodiac for a few weeks, slowly retracing its recent steps and subsequently causing delays and slowdowns in all cosmic realms it rules.
This is why Mercury retrograde periods are notorious for causing misunderstandings, tech setbacks, travel issues, and other unpleasant inconveniences that disrupt your daily flow. All the logistical details of your day will be subject to the antics of this backspin, so when this is happening, it’s a good idea to double-check the fine print on things, reread your texts before sending, and leave some leeway in your schedule in case timing goes awry.
But there is an upside here too, as retrogrades aren’t inherently bad. Mercury retrograde is a good reminder to slow down and check in with where you are — mentally, socially, and in other ways. Reconsider the decisions you’ve recently made and the opportunities that have come your way, giving yourself a chance to reexamine your options through a less routine-focused lens.
Reflection is much more favorable than action right now, so it’s generally a good idea to avoid starting new projects. However, you may find that revisiting older projects, conversations, or ideas can be fruitful, as you’re seeing the past in a new light.
Each Mercury retrograde shares some commonalities, but no two backspins are exactly alike. Here’s what to know about November’s Mercury retrograde so you can get through it (relatively) unscathed.
How long does this Mercury retrograde last?
The upcoming Mercury retrograde begins on November 25 at 9:42 pm and ends on December 15 at 3:56 pm, which means there will be just under three weeks of its usual chaos to deal with. Some Mercury retrogrades last almost four weeks, so the shorter duration of this backspin is something to be thankful for.
As always, there’s also a pre- and post-retrograde shadow period on both sides of the backspin, which are subtle but important parts of this cosmic story. The pre-retrograde shadow begins on November 7, so pay attention to themes that come up in your conversations and plans — you’ll be revisiting some of these matters during the retrograde itself. Once Mercury is stationed direct, the post-retrograde shadow period will last until January 2, so you’ll have the chance to smooth out any retrograde-related confusions and integrate the lessons you’ve learned.
What is the flavor of Mercury Retrograde in Sagittarius?
Mercury will spend the entire duration of its retrograde in fiery and free-spirited Sagittarius, moonwalking from 22 degrees of the sign back to 6 degrees. According to traditional astrology, Mercury is considered “in detriment” in Sagittarius — meaning it doesn’t feel at home amid this fire sign’s broad traits and big-picture way of thinking and struggles to be its usual, detail-oriented, meticulous self. When this speedy planet is retrograde in Sagittarius, you might find it especially easy to overlook minor details and difficult to slow down enough to fully review things.
However, Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius can be a good time to check your internal compass and ensure you’re being guided by a belief system that still aligns with who you are today. It’s easy to operate on autopilot, following philosophies that may have resonated with you in the past but don’t necessarily make sense anymore. If your worldview has evolved, it may be time to start looking at life from a new perspective — and this backspin can help you do just that.
How will this affect your sign?
Since this retrograde is in Sagittarius, fire signs will feel it on a personal level. They may find it hard to see themselves clearly or act on the things they are passionate about.
Meanwhile, earth signs may find that the retrograde brings out more sensitive feelings, leading them to revisit resentments, family disagreements, or emotional boundaries. It’s not easy when old wounds resurface like this, but it also offers a chance to heal.
As for air signs, they should watch out for communication conflicts, as the retrograde will hit some of the most social and interpersonal parts of their charts. Being extremely mindful of how they present themselves in conversations or texts will be helpful.
Last but not least, water signs will find that work and money matters are most affected, so they should be careful with financial investments and might want to consider postponing any new professional ventures until the retrograde period ends.
Source: Bustle
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This content was translated with the help of AI.
