July 18 Mercury Retrograde Will Trigger Major Shifts for These Signs

What if the universe hit pause, and handed you a cosmic mirror? July 2025 is less about chaos and more about clarity.

Jul 17, 2025
  • Mercury retrogrades
    Mercury retrograde in Leo might slow down, reflect, and realign – it's time to edit your life plan and uncover hidden creativityUnsplash

    What if the universe told you to slow down, rethink everything, and hit reset? That’s pretty much what July 2025 is whispering in your ear—though it might sound more like a tech glitch, a travel delay, or a wildly emotional convo gone sideways. Yep, Mercury retrograde is back, and this time it’s showing up with its whole planetary entourage.

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    But instead of dreading it, what if you used this time to pull back, reflect, and realign? July isn’t just retrograde chaos, but it’s also your chance to uncover hidden creativity and plant the seeds for some serious personal evolution.


    Let’s break down the retrograde rollercoaster, what it means for your sign, and why this month might just be your unexpected cosmic sabbatical.

    The sky is in reverse—but that’s not always a bad thing

    The Big Three Retrogrades: Mercury, Neptune & Saturn


    Think of July 2025 as the ultimate pause-and-rewind moment. With Mercury, Neptune, and Saturn all going retrograde, the universe is collectively asking: “Are you sure you’re on the right path?”

    • Neptune (Jul 2) and Saturn (Jul 13) both start retrograding in fiery Aries—blending dreams with structure in a surprisingly rare harmony.

    • Mercury joins the retrograde crew from July 18 to August 11, making this a month for slowing down, checking your blind spots, and editing your life plan before moving forward.

    • Add to that a Capricorn Full Moon on July 10 (aka the month’s reality check) and Leo season starting July 22, and you’ve got a cosmic cocktail that’s equal parts reflection, revelation, and reinvention.

    Mercury Retrograde in Leo: Drama, delays and deep lessons


    Dates to Remember: July 18, 2025 – August 11, 2025


    Mercury, the planet of communication and intellect, turns retrograde in theatrical Leo, dragging all things ego, expression, and spotlight into the mix.


    This retrograde is loud—and not always in the way you want. You might feel misunderstood, off-track, or like your voice isn't being heard. But instead of spiraling, use this time to check your narrative. Are you speaking your truth or just performing it?


    Mercury also rules Gemini and Virgo, so people with these signs in their charts may feel it even more intensely (and yes, we’re going to get into who’s most affected in just a bit).

    Who’s feeling it the most? 

    a circle of all the zodiac signs
    Who is the Mercury retrograde on July 18 hitting the hardestUnsplash

    Gemini 


    Mercury is your ruling planet, and when it backspins, your words may come out more cutting than you intend. You might feel like no one’s listening or like conversations keep turning weirdly sour. Business hiccups, work frustration, or miscommunications are likely, especially if you're trying to do it all. Use this time to focus on your personal life and step away from the hustle.

    Virgo 


    Also ruled by Mercury, you might feel like your usually rock-solid inner compass is spinning. It’s a time for reflection, not action. Seek advice from someone grounded—a sibling, a friend, or even yourself, via some solo journaling. You're learning how to trust your gut, even when the path isn’t clear.

    Libra 


    Personal shifts are incoming, and they could hit close to home. Retrograde could stir confusion in your routines and relationships, but it’s also pushing you to grow. It’s not about avoiding the discomfort; it’s about learning from it. Pay close attention to family dynamics and trust that your inner calm is your superpower.


    Scorpio 


    For you, retrograde is a trip into emotional archives. Old feelings may resurface. Unfinished stories beg for closure. But beware of getting stuck in the past. Focus on your career path and where you’re headed, not where you’ve been. This season is teaching you to release emotional clutter to make space for new chapters.

    How to navigate Mercury Retrograde without losing your mind

    Do:

    Back up your devices and double-check communications.

    Journal, reflect, and reassess—especially before launching anything big.

    Pause before reacting, especially in emotionally charged conversations.

    Don’t:

    Sign major contracts unless necessary.

    Book complex travel without backup plans.

    Rushing into breakups or big decisions—this energy can distort things.


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