Mercury Retrograde is back this week - here's what it means and the top 3 star signs most affected
We're just a couple of days away from the next Mercury Retrograde.
The dreaded retrograde, which happens three times a year, is often linked to communication breakdowns, travel delays and technological breakdowns.
Without getting too science-y, it's basically an astronomical illusion where the planets appear to move backwards in the sky.
The next one kicks off on Sunday (28 June) and will hang about until late next month (23 July).
Advert
Speaking to Heart Bingo Online, astrologer Inbaal Honigman has exclusively revealed to Tyla exactly what the Mercury Retrograde means, what to expect from the shift, as well as uncovering the star signs that will be most affected.
What is Mercury Retrograde?
Inbaal explains: "Mercury Retrograde in Cancer lasts 24 days from 29th June to 23rd July 2026.
"Mercury is the planet of communication, and in astrology this planet is linked with writing, texts and emails, online transactions, job interviews, phone calls and social media posts. Anything to do with conversations and the exchange of information."
During these retrogrades, all matters of communication tend to struggle, the astrologer warns.
"Phones may restart of their own accord, parcel deliveries can end up with the wrong neighbours, even compliments can be taken the wrong way, not to mention your Wi-Fi vanishing for no reason at all," she adds.
Why is this Mercury Retrograde significant?
Inbaal explains that, for the upcoming Retrograde, Mercury will be in Cancer for the entire duration.
"When Mercury, the planet of communication, is in watery Cancer, it impacts families and close-knit communities, because Cancer is a reserved, loyal, family-loving sign. It means that casual chit-chat will be taken to heart, and job interviews can feel more personal than professional," she notes.
“When the Mercury Retrograde takes place in Cancer, it means that this melodrama brings tears instead of growth, and temporarily sours some relationships, though only until 23rd July."
What star signs will be most affected by the change?
Gemini
Inbaal outlines that the sign of Gemini is a born communicator.
She explains that Geminis are chatty, sociable, and have a quick wit and sharp intellect, adding: "The sign of the twins is ruled by the planet Mercury, which is why the Mercury Retrograde can impact them more than others.
"During the Mercury Retrograde, Geminis would feel that their naturally free-flowing gift of communication just doesn't sparkle the usual way.
"Their endless stream of clever ideas hits a wall."
Virgo
Up next is the sign of Virgo, which Inbaal says is 'neat and focused'.
"Virgos are organised and tidy, and pride themselves on their efficiency. The sign of Virgo is ruled by the planet Mercury, and for this reason, the Mercury Retrograde interrupts their natural pace in all aspects of life," she continues.
“During the Mercury retrograde, Virgos will have to accept delays, bouncing emails, and, not to mention, surprise visits from unwanted exes. The Mercury Retrograde tends to resurrect people from the past, who Virgos would rather forget."
Cancer
And last on the list is 'sensitive and caring' Cancer.
"Cancerians are intuitive, emotional and devoted to their families and hometowns," the astrologer explains. "The sign of the crab is ruled by the moon, creator of dreams and manifestations. This Mercury Retrograde takes place in Cancer and will therefore influence Cancerian lives.
"During the Mercury Retrograde, Cancerians will express their caring side as they always do, but it will be taken the wrong way. They'll find themselves accused of selfishness and greed when they try to be generous and share."
Happy Mercury Retrograde, folks!
Topics: Astrology, Tyla Exclusive, Space, Life, Sex and Relationships
Rhiannon Ingle