Astrologer warns people ‘not to be afraid’ as reason you feel ‘off’ right now is revealed

From today (17 July) until well into next month, you may sense that things all feel a little 'off'.

Maybe it's chronic overthinking, issues sleeping, office drama or relationship stress with an astrologer suggesting we strap ourselves in for a whole world of crazy for the next few weeks until mid August.

However, it's not all doom and gloom as they've advised people to 'not be afraid' - and there's a pretty good reason as to why.

Yep, it's all down to none other than the impending Mercury Retrograde.

Mercury will retrograde in the fire sign Leo from 17th July until 11th August and, as Mercury is the ruling planet of communication, travel and technology, it being in retrograde usually means that these things can be disrupted.

The dreaded Mercury Retrograde starts today (17 July) (Javier Zayas Photography / Getty Images)

While planetary retrogrades often have a bad reputation and are blamed for most negative or chaotic events in our lives, online psychic reading provider Psychic Chat and Astrologer Heather Roan Robbins have revealed how it can actually be a positive and powerful time to re-connect.

What does a planet in retrograde mean?

Mercury in retrograde takes place around three to four times a year when Mercury slows down to the point that it creates an optical illusion and appears to be moving backwards from the earth's point of view.

"From the Sun's perspective all the planets orbit in the same direction," Robbins explained. "But because of the difference between our orbit and theirs, from the earth’s perspective all the planets (except the Sun and Moon) occasionally appear to stand still, they then dance backwards against the backdrop of the Zodiac.

"When a planet retrogrades, events symbolised by that planet won't go as they normally do. A retrograde planet signals time to reconsider, repair, and consolidate before proceeding, a cosmic pause before a trip."

Robbins also notes that while we often have a series of planets that retrograde through summer, Mercury is a 'special case.'

"It's the planet of movement and communications, it’s a trickster as it retrogrades roughly three times a year for three weeks," she explains.

Mercury is a 'special case' when it comes to retrogrades (sarayut Thaneerat / Getty Images)

Which star signs will be the most affected?

So, it seems no one's safe as all the signs will be affected by Mercury’s retrograde in Leo.

However, with that said, some will feel more of an impact than others.

"This could include miscommunication mishaps, travel delays and personal doubts, so it is important to stay positive and remind yourself of the retrograde, taking this time at a slower pace," the experts note.

Now, as Mercury is retrograding in Leo, Leo’s are more likely to feel the effects which could include; communication breakdowns, higher levels of self doubt and re-visiting past relationship challenges.

Additionally, fixed signs may especially feel the challenges of Mercury retrograde; Aquarius, Taurus, and Scorpios 'need to stay aligned with themselves, especially if they find themselves doubting their self expression or identity.'

Likewise, Mercury is the ruling planet of Gemini and Virgo, so these signs are also apparently likely to be strongly affected.

The experts reiterated: "Communication might be a struggle during this time so it's important to slow down and focus. It may also affect the workplace, making Geminis and Virgos feel unsteady. During this time make sure you stay positive and focus on your inner strength.

"Although the retrograde will affect all signs differently, it's important for all zodiacs to use the time for reflection and re-alignment. Take the time to slow down and re-gain focus on your goals and passions."

Some star signs may will feel more of an impact than others during this Mercury Retrograde (Oleg Breslavtsev / Getty Images)

How to prepare for Mercury Retrograde in Leo?

Apparently, the Mercury Retrograde is a time to be 'bold and creative.'

The experts advise: "Question your communication and understand whether your communications style and thought processing is truly supporting you to achieve your goals and encouraging you to be ambitious."

During retrograde we can feel off balance, so be sure to take it slow.

Maybe even take an additional pause before you commit to something or send an email as well as slowing down your schedule and taking your time to plan properly, double-checking the finer details.

Robbins continued: "Mercury retrograde is not something to be afraid of, it's something to use wisely, the old astrological adage is anything that begins RE, remember, re-edit, rebuild, rediscover, return, revisit, and reconnect, all work well under Mercury retrograde.

"Mercury retrograde gives us a chance to review the past. Review wonderful moments, remember personal victories, visit dear familiar places. Step out of a tight schedule and take a summer vacation. Just confirm all reservations and schedules, prioritise safety, take a good book, and make the most of any delay."

"Introspection is a powerful Mercury retrograde pastime, but make a conscious effort to get out of your own perspective and into others’ for breadth before coming to conclusions."

Take the time to organise and declutter both your physical and mental space this Mercury Retrograde (Daniel de la Hoz / Getty Images)

What to avoid during Mercury Retrograde in Leo?

There's a lot of positives to come from Mercury retrograde, so make sure to use it to slow down and reflect. Take the time to re-organise and declutter both your physical surroundings and your emotional space.

“Mercury is a trickster, and mishaps can reveal lies or bad intentions. Pay attention, because slapstick and accidents occur when we hurry or get distracted. Respect the check engine light in the car, and track car keys and important paperwork carefully. If an argument begins, check for misunderstandings and try to delay long-term decisions. If you need to buy a phone or car, instruments of communication and transportation, wait if possible, and if not, track receipts and insurance. It's not a great time to initiate but make sure to follow through on what’s already begun.”