That period that everyone interested in astrology fears; Mercury in retrograde! Do not be surprised if bad events are constantly happening to you during this period! You are likely to be affected by Mercury retrograde, which repeats -apparently, lots of times a year.

As of November 26, 2024, Mercury goes retrograde. November 24-25, when Mercury is stationary, will be the most challenging period—avoid starting anything new. The Mercury retrograde dates ends on December 17.

Mercury will retrograde in Sagittarius, primarily affecting Sagittarius and Gemini signs, who should pay extra attention to contracts, conversations, promises, and documents. Virgo and Pisces will also feel its impact. Everyone should be cautious of:

• Misunderstandings
• Errors in documents and contracts
• Misstatements in the wrong place or time
• Gossip and false news
• The return of exes
• Travel, transportation, visas, passports, and other official paperwork
• Electronic devices, phones, and academic processes like exams, appointments, or interviews

What Is Mercury Retrograde?

Actually, Mercury is never in retrograde. It’s a common misconception or grammatical error that people make. It is a term that has entered into the mainstream and pop culture probably because it happens so much. I happens three times a year. Yeah, that’s a lot, and it retrogrades for three weeks each time. So a lot of the year, like 17% of the time, it’s retrograde. 

Retrograde… A very famous term. But what does Mercury in retrograde mean?

Does Mercury Really Go Backwards?

The first thing we need to clear up is that mercury is not in retrograde, Mercury is just retrograde! This is the astronomical phenomenon when a planet appears to be moving backward reversing its orbit from our point of view here on earth. It’s an optical illusion. 

Planets orbit the sun at different speeds and retrograde occurs generally as a faster-moving planet catches up with and then passes a slower-moving planet. Other planets retrograde too but because Mercury is the fastest planet in the solar system, it retrogrades more frequently about three to four times a year, and lasts for about two to three weeks. Ancient Romans and Greeks personified the planet Mercury as the messenger deity. Similarly in astrology, Mercury rules over communication. This planet also governs analytical thinking, ideas expression, and information processing. So, in astrology when Mercury retrogrades, all those things get kind of scrambled. Hence why some people feel utter and total chaos during this period.

What Happens When Mercury is In Retrograde?

Different mercury retrogrades can have different effects on us depending on which sign it’s moving through and they can take on more of the qualities of that sign. For instance, the sign of Cancer is associated with home, family, and emotional intensity. Mercury retrograding through Cancer could have us focus on aspects of our family and home life and get deeper in touch with our emotional state.

In 2018, all mercury retrogrades will pass through fire signs, Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. Therefore, we may be more willing than normal to engage in conflict over things we’re passionate about because that’s what fire signs do. 

So what retrograde are we in now? Now, Mercury retrogrades in Sagittarius.

Mercury Retrograde November 2024 Effects

Sagittarius rules over foreigners, academics, international matters, universities, education, commerce, import-export, advertising, legal issues, judges, diplomats, clergy, and sacred places. During this retrograde, past issues in these areas may resurface, causing setbacks or complications. Decisions made during this time could be flawed.

Mercury is in mutual reception with Jupiter, which might soften the situation slightly. However, this can still bring differences of opinion and debates in these areas.

From December 4-10, Mercury will form a tense square with Jupiter and Saturn, marking the most challenging days of this retrograde.

Mercury will retrograde between 6° and 22°, affecting those with planets or critical points in mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces) in this range.

What To Do During This Period?

While there is generally a negative connotation surrounding retrograde periods, there are also ways to interpret Mercury retrograde that are more positive.

Since things will feel a little crazy during retrograde, it can be a good opportunity to do some internal reflection rather than make impulsive decisions. This can give you a chance to reassess your desires and purpose.

Mercury Retrograde in Sagittarius: The Deeper Meaning

Sagittarius is associated with ingrained knowledge, ideologies, and beliefs. Some cultural codes or beliefs we’ve been taught may hinder our progress. Certain beliefs may no longer serve us well.

How can we break free from outdated, rigid beliefs that no longer reflect our reality? How can we remove obstacles blocking our personal freedom and a fresh start? This Mercury retrograde offers an opportunity to clear out old, unhelpful data cluttering our minds, making room for new insights and knowledge.

A Daily Practice for Mental Clarity

The best remedy for an overworked mind is a daily walk.

Spend 30 minutes to an hour walking daily, and set this intention before starting:
“With every step I take during this walk, I leave behind all thoughts, feelings, and memories from the past that do not make me feel happy, secure, confident, or loved.”

Create a “New Knowledge Board”

Sagittarius holds a vast pool of knowledge. During the retrograde, try creating a “New Knowledge Board.”

Every day, write down one new thing you’ve learned (no matter how small!). For example:

• “I learned which yeast to use for breadmaking.”
• “I found out that chickens are descendants of dinosaurs.”

This practice not only ensures you remember new insights but also reminds you how valuable even the tiniest pieces of knowledge can be.

Mercury Retrograde 2022 What Not To Do?

Do not get into an argument with anyone, ignore the problem a little bit, if you have an account to see, postpone it until the retro end. 

Be cautious in your monetary traffic, and bank payments, especially in internet shopping, do not be deceived. There may be cargo delays, your concert may be canceled, or your flight may be delayed, do not get angry. Electronic devices can break down, don’t go and buy a new one. Back up your documents and photos on devices such as phones and computers.

There may be second opportunities that come your way, take advantage of them. You can take action for the issues related to the past that have been held, whatever is left unfinished can be completed. The important thing is to take a step ahead. Do meticulous cleaning in your life. If you hurt people, make up for them. Leave your vital decisions until after October 6, if we count the shadowy days.