What Mercury Retrograde in Aries Means for Your Sign

Don’t be discouraged by the inevitable delays that are up ahead. 

On March 15, Mercury will station retrograde in Aries, and things can get… chaotic for Fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius), to say the least. Right on the heels of Mars (Aries’ planetary ruler) going direct and Venus stationing retrograde in Aries, it’s safe to say that the audacious energy of this Fire sign will be all the more magnified.

The first sign of the zodiac, Aries is bold, passionate and often daring in its approach. On the dark side, the fiery archetype of this Mars-y energy can result in aggression, impulse and erratic behavior. As a Cardinal sign, Aries is known to lead and initiate, but diving headfirst into things without considering the consequences is no exception.

When a planet retrogrades, it doesn’t actually move backward — this is simply an illusion from our view here on planet Earth. Retrograde means to slow down and the planet’s slow-moving pace makes both the planet and zodiac sign themes all the more potent and impossible to ignore.

For instance, Mercury is the planet of communication, thought processes and technology, which is why many often dread the effects that come with this astrological phenomenon. That said, add a bit of Aries energy — quick action, impulsive decisions and charging forward — to the mix, and we have another layer of d-r-a-m-a.

That’s not saying there aren’t benefits to a retrograde cycle — considering the insights and revelations that come with it — but in a zodiac sign like Aries, don’t be surprised if you suddenly feel on edge or more argumentative than usual.

Naturally, the usual delays, misunderstandings and errors in communication are all common when Mercury retrogrades, but when in a sign like Aries, these moments are more likely to be louder, bolder and triggering.

Pro tip: Don’t rush into things only to realize later that you should’ve thought it through. The essence of Mars is wildly passionate, but don’t let its lust for life fool you. 

On that note, between March 15 and April 7, the effects of Mercury retrograde will most likely hit you in a few key ways.

Be prepared for a communication breakdown — text messages may not make it to the right person, your plans may get completely derailed and all that fiery energy might translate into unnecessary confrontations or snap decisions.

For those with a tendency to speak before thinking, this is a time to really watch your words. One wrong move or heated debate could escalate into something bigger than intended.

Read on for what Mercury retrograde in Aries means for your zodiac sign.

Aries (March 20-April 19)

Mercury retrograde in your sign means you might feel like you’re second-guessing yourself at every turn, Aries. Expect an identity crisis or two — maybe that bold declaration or exchange doesn’t turn out quite right, or a social media post feels cringier than you thought. Trust that things will sort out, but take a breath before making any big changes or decisions. Remember, to control your impulses.

Taurus (April 19-May 20)

It’s a good time to reflect and process quietly and avoid dramatic confrontations, Taurus. Mercury retrograde in your 12th house could bring some long-buried thoughts and secrets to the surface. Whether that’s having dreams that are extra vivid or unexpected revelations about your past. Be mindful of isolating yourself — blockages in communication could lead to misunderstandings with close friends.

Gemini (May 20-June 20)

It’s a great time to reconnect with people from the past, but be sure to double-check the details before making a commitment, Gemini. In addition to being ruled by the messenger planet, Mercury retrograde in your 11th house of associations, networks and community affairs could make the group chat a tad bit chaotic. A social invite could also get lost in the shuffle, or you may get an unexpected message from an old friend.

Cancer (June 20-July 22)

A major career shift could pop up unexpectedly, but give it some time before you make any big decisions, Cancer. Mercury retrograde in your 10th house could throw a curveball into your career plans. Perhaps a project you’ve been working on hits a dead end or an important meeting goes sideways. Keep an eye on how you’re communicating with your superiors — your words might not land the way you intend.

Leo (July 22-Aug. 22)

Give yourself enough room to change your mind without jumping to conclusions, Leo. Mercury retrograde in your philosophical ninth house means things can get a little tricky when it comes to travel or education. You could experience delays with flights or even miscommunication with professors or coworkers. You may even feel like you’re questioning your belief system or values, but no need to stress that.

Virgo (Aug. 22-Sept. 22)

Take your time before committing to anything big, Virgo. You’re ruled by Mercury, so retrogrades are all the more pivotal for you. Still, Mercury retrograde in your eighth house could bring up deep conversations about intimacy, money or joint ventures. A financial plan could go south, or taboo topics in relationships may be revealed, resulting in awkward or intense conversation. Be cautious about signing contracts or making investments during this time, as things may not be as they seem.

Libra (Sept. 22-Oct. 22)

If you’re single, don’t rush into a new relationship just yet — allow things to develop naturally, Libra. After all, Mercury retrograde is shaking things up in your seventh house of commitments, partnerships and significant others, which could make communication with your partners, colleagues or even friends a little tense. You are more likely to misunderstand each other, leading to unnecessary arguments or confusion. Try to keep your cool, especially if you find yourselves debating over something petty.

Scorpio (Oct. 22-Nov. 21)

It’s a good time to get your ducks in a row, but avoid making drastic changes to your routine, Scorpio. Mercury retrograde in your sixth house of work, health and acts of service could be nothing short of a nuisance — like missed emails or deadlines. You may find yourself rethinking your approach to health and wellness, with old habits resurfacing. Don’t be surprised if technology fails or if you need to tweak something that is no longer productive.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22–Dec. 21)

Slow down and make sure you’re on the same page, Sagittarius. Mercury rules your relationship sector and it’s going to retrograde in your fifth house of love, passion and self-expression. Naturally, this could lead to misunderstandings in your love life or with a significant other. A playful text could fuel the fire for drama, or a date could be interrupted by unexpected developments. It’s time to reevaluate your creative projects — an idea you thought was brilliant may need to be tweaked.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan. 19)

It’s a good time to organize your humble abode, Capricorn. Mercury retrograde in your fourth house of home and family could trigger miscommunications and hiccups with family members. A home project may stall or get delayed, or you may realize issues that need attention in your living space. Otherwise, expect tension and confusion regarding living arrangements.

Aquarius (Jan. 19-Feb. 18)

Take time to think before you speak, Aquarius. With Mercury retrograde lighting up your curious third house of communication, it’s easy to put your foot in your mouth. Whether that’s sending a message to the wrong person or having your words misinterpreted by others. It’s not unusual to feel you’re stuck in a loop, rehashing old conversations or clarifying misunderstandings. Double-check travel plans and directions.

Pisces (Feb. 18-March 20)

The clarity you seek will come later — take it slow for now, Pisces. Mercury retrograde in your stability-seeking second house could trigger financial confusion or, on another note, feelings of insecurity. You may receive an unexpected bill or find yourself reconsidering your values. Be cautious with spending, and don’t rush into major purchases. You could also have a few moments of self-doubt, but it’s a good time to reconnect with your self-worth.