How 2025’s last Mercury retrograde tests beliefs and boundaries

The last Mercury retrograde of 2025 is here, running it back from from November 9 to 29.

While Mercury retrograde is the most maligned of all astro transits, experts say there’s nothing to bemoan and everything to gain.

What is Mercury retrograde?

Mercury retrograde is when our planet of the mind and mouth appears to move backward in the sky. While planets do not, in fact, ever move backwards, they do decelerate to the point that they look to be backsliding from our vantage here on Earth.

Because Mercury is in close proximity to the Earth, it is considered a personal planet, meaning its movements and, in particular, its retrograde antics affect us directly and immediately.

“Mercury retrograde isn’t something to fear – it’s simply a period with specific characteristics that can be navigated successfully with awareness and preparation,” Tetiana Tsvil, astrologer and spiritual advisor at Nebula, told The Post.

She shared that during this backspin, we are primed to experience returns and reveals of every variety: unfinished projects, unresolved relationship issues or karmic lessons left unmastered.

“Mercury governs communication, information and perception, so you might encounter unclear situations and secret revelations in these areas,” she said.

Mercury Retrograde November 2025

Because the first half of this retrograde is going down and back in Sagittarius, a sign associated with idealism, philosophy, dogma and other closely held beliefs, this transit could cue the existential crises at worst or critical reframing at best.

Remember, folks, for it to come together, it must first fall apart.

Tsvil advises the cosmically curious to avoid making impulsive or significant decisions while Mercury is retrograde.

“Postponing large purchases, long trips and new educational pursuits is advisable because retrograde periods often slow progress. It’s also not the best time for getting married, divorcing or making major changes to your appearance, especially if these matters can wait,” she said.

This latest Mercury retrograde cycle is distinguished by its passage through two very different zodiac signs.

Mercury retrograde dates

From November 9 to 19, Mercury will retrograde in Sagittarius, bringing returns, revisions and challenges in learning, education, planning, strategizing and travel.

From November 19 to 29, Mercury shifts into Scorpio and shifts our focus to themes of power, profit, control and finances.

When does Mercury go into retrograde in 2025

Mercury stationed retrograde on November 9. While the planet stations direct on November 29, it won’t clear its post-retrograde shadow until December 17.

How can you make the most of this transit?

Tsvil recommends reflecting on past patterns and their outcomes, revisiting projects that need improvement, and addressing relationship issues that are stalling your personal evolution.

“Mercury retrograde is not a curse but an opportunity to refine and complete what requires attention,” she said.

To that end, Tsvil shares below what each zodiac sign can refine and revise in the coming weeks.

Tsvil anticipates that Aries folk will circle back to areas of their life that keep their third eye open and their mojo working.

“Aries will revisit old ideas about education, travel, or their spiritual path. A reassessment of beliefs and views, along with an analysis of previous life strategies, is very likely.”

Team Taurus may revisit debts, loans, lovers, loan sharks and other old financial agreements.

“A long-forgotten score might be repaid, and former love or business partners may return, with terms of the partnership potentially being renegotiated,” said Tsvil

Gemini folk can anticipate/dread the return of former partners or colleagues.

“There will be a reassessment of relationships and communication with loved ones, as well as work processes. Delays or a return to previous work habits are possible,” said Tsvil.

The Cancer contingent will have their focus shifted to health and habits, both physical and spiritual.

Whether you’re feeding your mind or your body, make sure the bread is fresh.

“For Leos, old ideas or romances may resurface, including the return of former partners,” said Tsvil.

You may fall back in love with a creative pursuit or passion project, but tread lightly when it comes to family matters. Ask yourself, ‘Do you want to be right, or do you want to be in a relationship?’

For Virgos, this retrograde asks you to return and repair, be it relationships or home improvement projects.

You may find yourself drawn to the past; allow that journey to be made in the name of research rather than regret. Let all memories be information that serves your future self.

“Libras can expect to revisit plans, documents, trips and studies. A friend may reach out unexpectedly,” said Tsvil.

“There could be delays in payments or financial decisions, making it a good time to reevaluate your skills and methods of earning money.”

“This period will see Scorpios returning to old financial matters or purchases, as well as rethinking personal values, self-esteem and self-presentation,” said Tsvil.

She urges scorpions to reflect on the power of a first impression and tailor ways to make their own more impactful/memorable.

For Sagittarius, this is a season of solitude.

“Doubts about personal goals and plans may arise, and there will be a need for alone time to abet internal reflection,” said Tsvil.

That reflective solitude may beget a transformation in personal appearance or demeanor.

Go big, but never for bangs.

“For Capricorns, this is a period of deep inner work and liberation from unnecessary things,” said Tsvil.

In addition to culling, Caps may find that old friends reappear with new offers in tow.

Commit to nothing but earnestly consider everything.

“Aquarius will see the return of friends and acquaintances, along with renewed activity on the Internet and social media,” said Tsvil.

She notes that forgotten projects and creative endeavors may surface, inviting water bearers to dive deep in familiar waters.

Pisces people can look forward to revisiting or refining their career goals and professional pursuits.

“It’s also possible to return to old plans for studies or travel. A rethinking of life goals and the direction of development is called for,” said Tsvil.

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Astrologer Reda Wigle researches and irreverently reports on planetary configurations and their effect on each zodiac sign. Her horoscopes integrate history, poetry, pop culture and personal experience. To book a reading, visit her website.