Mercury goes retrograde August 5. What it means for you (2024)

Feel that? That's the return of the dreaded astrological transit Mercury retrograde.

As an astrologer, I can safely say Mercury retrograde doesn't have to be that bad – as long as you stay aware of what might be causing all those minor inconveniences and communication mishaps.

Here's what to know.

What are the dates of Mercury retrograde?

This summer's retrograde starts on Aug. 5 at 12:56 a.m. ET, and lasts until Aug. 28.

Mercury is moonwalking from earthy Virgo to fiery Leo. Mercury officially switches signs from Virgo to Leo on the 14.

Since it commences hours after Aug. 4’s new moon in Leo and Venus’s entrance into Virgo, we are learning how to reclaim our dreams and mend our hearts.

You may experience financial good fortune Aug. 7, when Mercury retrograde and Venus align (and if you do, I have some shopping suggestions).

August 18 is the best day of the retrograde. The sun and Mercury will form an aspect known as “cazimi.” This powerful connection may allow us to make future plans and see through the fog. We’ll gain clarity at this time that can transform our lives.

What is Mercury retrograde?

Mercury retrograde is an optical illusionthat occurs when the planet Mercury appears to move backwards in the night sky. In reality, the Earth briefly overtakes Mercury in its orbit. This creates the visual effect that the planet is moving in reverse.

Astrologically speaking, retrogrades — whichoccur in other planets, too— are thought to impede the realms that the planet governs. Since Mercury rules communication, information and travel, the retrograde period is said to hamper those areas.

During Mercury retrograde, we may feel pressured to make quick choices, act impulsively or blurt things out. Take a moment to reflect before acting. Be mindful of miscommunications.

How Mercury retrograde might affect your sign

Aries

Rather than dwell on how you spent the first weeks of summer, use the retrograde to refresh your energy and activities. List your seasonal goals to make them happen in the weeks ahead.

Taurus

Reconnect with your inner child. If you never had the chance to do an activity when you were younger, now’s your chance. Even if it’s something totally out of the ordinary, leaning into this side of yourself will spark joy.

Gemini

Family matters from the past are being brought to light. Instead of running away from having hard and intense conversations, now is the time to discuss them. The more willing you are to hear what other people have to say, the easier it’ll be to get your points across.

Cancer

There is a lot of noise happening around you. The goal you should strive to implement is to ignore all of the information and news that is coming your way. Most of what is being said isn’t true. Use your intuition and heart to find your way through the confusion.

Leo

Everything is happening so fast in your life that it’s hard for you to take a moment to pause, reflect and relax. The next few weeks are urging you to implement self-care into your routine to boost your energy levels, so you don’t get too depleted from working too hard.

Virgo

A profound realization about your love life may unfold in the weeks ahead, particularly around the type of people you choose to commit to and how you act in relationships. These revelations will allow you to take a deep look inside and make changes about how you partner in the future.

Libra

Don’t let yourself get in the way of personal success. The retrograde will make you rethink matters, and it could result in you sabotaging your pathway to success. If you confront your fears at this time, you will have different results as you begin to accept your shadow side.

Scorpio

Some of your friends are disappearing from the weekly hangouts. Don’t take it personally and try to extend yourself to them by checking in to ensure that they’re emotionally OK. You will be able to prove your friendship to them by calling and stopping by to ensure they are fine.

Sagittarius

Stay away from conflict at work. If you resist the changes that they are implementing in the office, issues can occur. In order to keep matters calm, try to daydream about your upcoming vacation or outside of work fun. That way you don’t have to focus on matters and have an escape from the mundane.

Capricorn

Concentrate on financial matters during the retrograde. Face it, even if you don't want to, and commit to arrangements that will be beneficial in the future.

Aquarius

You might want to go through your contact list on your phone and get in touch with old friends. This will be extremely beneficial to you, as they will guide and help you redefine the relationship that you’ve been missing out on and make headway for the future.

Pisces

You might find that your daily routine needs to be transformed. Finding an outlet for your energy is essential. You should consider trying an activity such as yoga, meditation or a walk in nature to release what's bottled up inside.