Mercury retrograde — Astrology glossary

Mercury retrograde is the period, about three times a year for roughly three weeks each, when Mercury appears to move backward through the zodiac as seen from Earth. The reversal is an illusion of perspective, caused by Earth overtaking the faster inner planet. Because Mercury governs communication, thinking, and travel in astrology, these phases are popularly blamed for misunderstandings, delays, and technology glitches. In a natal chart, being born during Mercury retrograde is read differently from the transit: it suggests a mind that works by review and reconsideration, often more articulate on paper than on the spot. For example, someone with natal Mercury retrograde may replay conversations afterward and find their clearest thoughts arrive only after the moment has passed.