In July 2025, we are about to witness one of the most powerful astrological events — Mercury goes retrograde on the 18th. This is one of the most discussed transits in modern astrology, as its impact is felt across many areas of life: from communication disruptions to travel delays and tech issues. People may experience sudden setbacks, changed plans, and increased emotional tension.
As noted by the editorial board of Baltimore Chronicle, the retrograde Mercury period is not a time for panic but an opportunity for reevaluation, reflection, and preparation for a new phase.
What Does Retrograde Mercury Mean and Why Is It Important?
Retrograde motion is an astronomical phenomenon in which a planet appears to move backward from Earth’s perspective. In reality, it doesn’t change its orbit — the reverse movement is just an optical illusion. In Mercury’s case, this happens several times a year and lasts about three weeks.
Mercury governs communication, information, contracts, technology, and travel. During its retrograde, all these areas can be disrupted. Expect delays, misunderstandings, technical malfunctions, and postponement of key decisions.
The retrograde Mercury period is often associated with:
- losing documents or important data
- miscommunication and conflicts
- travel mishaps and cancellations
- unexpected turns in negotiations
- reappearances of people or unresolved matters from the past
What Makes the July 18, 2025 Mercury Retrograde Unique
The retrograde Mercury starting on July 18, 2025, has specific features as it occurs in the sign of Leo. This brings increased emotionality, a need for self-expression, and influence over creativity, leadership, and personal relationships.
From July 18 to August 11, 2025, you may encounter situations like:
- difficulty expressing yourself in public
- disrupted plans related to presentations or performances
- doubts about your self-worth or importance
- unexpected reentries of people from your past
Impact on Various Life Areas
This transit amplifies emotional sensitivity. People become more reactive to criticism, and internal insecurity can lead to delayed actions or decisions.
If you work in creative industries, be especially cautious. Ideas may feel inspired in the moment but could lose relevance quickly.
How to Act During Mercury Retrograde: Astrologers’ Advice
To navigate Mercury retrograde without damage, follow these simple yet effective strategies. This is not the time for risky moves, major changes, or signing contracts.
Key recommendations:
- Avoid signing important documents
- Double-check every detail
- Backup your data regularly
- Be cautious with electronics and avoid large purchases
- Revisit and revise old projects instead of launching new ones
- Communicate clearly and avoid assumptions
- Reflect instead of rushing decisions
What You Should Do
The retrograde Mercury period is ideal for:
- analyzing the past
- completing unfinished tasks
- reconnecting with old contacts
- doing introspective work
How Retrograde Mercury Affects Zodiac Signs
Not everyone experiences Mercury retrograde the same way. Here’s how it may affect each sign:
Zodiac Sign | Main Influence from July 18 to August 11 |
---|---|
Aries | Tension with authority, image-related challenges |
Taurus | Travel delays, unexpected expenses |
Gemini | Return of old friends, goal reassessment |
Cancer | Financial doubts, decision-making paralysis |
Leo | Emotional highs and lows, desire for solitude |
Virgo | Communication issues, misunderstandings at work |
Libra | Unexpected reunions, jealousy, old acquaintances |
Scorpio | Family-related tensions, increased repair activities |
Sagittarius | Mistakes in travel planning, rescheduling issues |
Capricorn | Delays with payments or documentation |
Aquarius | Reevaluation of friendships, glitches in digital work |
Pisces | Inner confusion, heightened intuition |
How to Minimize the Negative Impact of Mercury Retrograde
Although Mercury retrograde is known for its challenges, its energy can be redirected toward constructive outcomes. Your mindset and actions are key.
Tips for making the best of this time:
- have backup plans in place
- aim for clear, deliberate communication
- avoid making big decisions in emotional states
- listen more, talk less
- tackle long-postponed tasks
- try meditation, journaling, or inner reflection
Helpful Rituals During This Period
- Write down your dreams — they might carry insights
- Use protective crystals (e.g., amethyst, obsidian)
- Cleanse your living space energetically (e.g., sage smudging)
- Avoid unnecessary conflicts — it’s a time to surrender, not to fight
What Not to Do on July 18 and During Mercury Retrograde
This is not the right time for impulsive actions or major life decisions. Especially avoid:
- changing jobs suddenly
- signing deals or agreements
- making large purchases (especially tech or vehicles)
- engaging in emotionally charged discussions
- launching new projects
- making decisions under pressure
If you feel an urge to act impulsively, that’s a sign to pause and reassess.
Positive Sides of Mercury Retrograde
Despite the general apprehension, Mercury retrograde is a unique chance for introspection, closure, and inner renewal.
It’s a time to:
- finish what you started
- identify and learn from past mistakes
- revisit ideas that once felt out of reach
- gain new perspective on old situations
Retrograde isn’t a punishment — it’s an invitation to deeper self-awareness.
How to Prepare for Retrograde Mercury on July 18
The period from July 18 to August 11, 2025, may come with tension, but also offers meaningful opportunities. It’s a cosmic nudge to slow down, reflect on the past, and gain clarity on where you’re headed.
To turn this transit into a phase of personal growth:
- avoid rash decisions
- complete outstanding projects
- reassess your goals
- trust your intuition more than external noise
Retrograde Mercury is not the end of the world — it’s a beginning of inner transformation.
Earlier we wrote about which hobby suits each zodiac sign.