Summer is here, it’s hot, and Mercury is queuing up to bring us some retroshade this summer. Sadly, it’s not the kind of shade we want. Mercury will officially be in retrograde from July 18th until August 11th. The retroshade period (the two weeks before and after the official retrograde) is creeping up on us. It will stick around under the end of August, just long enough to insert itself into all of the back-to-school chaos.
A retrograde happens when it appears that a planet is orbiting backwards. The planets don’t actually change orbital direction; it’s more of an optical illusion. However, many people believe that during these periods the energy or properties of that planet may be behaving differently. All planets do this, but the spiritual community puts a lot of focus on Mercury.
Mercury is thought to rule over our communication, travel, and commerce. When it is in retrograde, we can often expect miscommunication, disagreements because of miscommunication, hiccups with travel plans, and inconveniences with technology. Retrogrades, especially Mercury retrogrades, often throw speed bumps in our way to make us slow down, reflect, and readjust for the next phase.
During this three-week stretch (plus the shadow period), Mercury’s energy tends to scramble signals, leaving us feeling hazy, scattered, and a little anxious. As the ruler of communication, technology, and travel, Mercury often stirs up disruptions in these areas — and yes, that can include unexpected messages from exes and revisiting old lessons we thought we’d already learned.
This summer’s Mercury retrograde will fall in the astrological sign of Leo. Leo rules over romance, flirtation, creativity, and play. When Mercury goes retrograde in this sign, pleasure isn’t entirely off the table, but the things that once sparked joy may suddenly feel flat. This cosmic slowdown nudges you to reassess your priorities. It might inspire a lifestyle reset, healthier relationships, or even thoughts of starting a family, as Leo also governs children. Mercury’s reflective energy could encourage you to embrace maturity, step into your responsibilities with confidence, and be seen in a more serious light. But don’t worry — you don’t have to give up your fun, just redefine what it looks like.
Although this summer’s Mercury retrograde is solely in the sign of Leo, that does not mean Leos are the only people who will be affected by it. The movements of the planets affect, or reflect, the lives of everyone. The fixed signs (Leo, Aquarius, Taurus, and Scorpio) are likely to feel this retrograde the most intensely though. Fixed signs often take the brunt of retrogrades because change or disruption does not sit well with fixed signs.
If you’re a Taurus, Leo, Aquarius, or Scorpio, this retrograde might feel especially personal. You could find yourself revisiting themes around creativity, authenticity, self-expression, identity, and deeper desires — particularly if you have prominent Leo placements. The cosmos is nudging you to reconnect with what truly lights you up and to realign with the most vibrant, honest version of yourself.
Miscommunications and clumsy wording are common during Mercury retrograde, but you cannot let this shatter your self-image. We must also be careful with our actions. Leo is a bold and proud sign. This influence can embolden us to do things we wouldn’t ordinarily do in our communications. Don’t let your frustrations with things and the passion of Leo merge into risky behavior. You may feel like now is the time to get things off your chest or take a leap and tell someone you are interested in them. Before you do though, take some time to think it through; don’t be rash. Remember communication is already going to be tricky. Is now the time to bring up touchy and vulnerable topics?
Navigating Mercury retrograde doesn’t have to be chaotic. Staying adaptable can help you ride it out with ease. Practice patience, keep a compassionate mindset, and don’t let pride cloud your perspective. This is a powerful moment for reflection. Step back, tune in, and let the experience teach you. These cosmic pauses aren’t punishments; they’re invitations to grow, if we’re willing to listen.
Emily Guenther is a co-owner of The Broom Closet metaphysical shop. She is a Memphis native, professional tarot reader, ordained Pagan clergy, and dog mom.
