You’ve probably heard of mercury retrograde- an event dreaded by many. Life events seem to be thrown off course during this time. While in actuality mercury retrograde is a time when the planet mercury looks as though it is going backwards in orbit.

Did you know that the astrological sign in which mercury retrograde takes place has an effect on its outward energy.

Here is an explanation of what to expect from an upcoming mercury retrograde based on its astrological placement:

Aries

Retrograde in the fiery sign of Aries can mark a period of frustration and wild emotions. You may find yourself making impulsive decisions that you would have otherwise restrained from. As the first sign in the zodiac Aries wants to make moves forward- while the energy of mercury retrograde keeps Aries restrained by push back.

It may be helpful during this time to think out your actions before making moves. This includes before you speak, as communication has the potential to become aggressive and blunt. A time when you may say things which you regret if you do not think it through.

Taurus

The sign of Taurus focuses on ones’ values and comforts. When mercury goes retrograde in this slow-moving sign the collective energy seems to move ultra-slow. With little moving you forward and ample retrograde energy pushing you back this time may feel especially languid.

Take time in making decisions and reasoning with others during this time. This is a good time to make well thought out decisions. You may feel calm – as though the world has stopped around you instead of you trying to catch up with the world.

During this time take a deep breath and slow down. The energy of the universe is on your side – enjoy it!

Gemini

Mercury Retrograde is known as a time of miscommunication – Gemini amplifies this quality. Expect extremes in term of communication. This meaning either lots of communication or none, this is what retrograde energy does in the planet of Gemini. Be aware that friends from your past may try to contact you during this time.

Communication between yourself and other may feel tough, you may feel as though you cannot find the right words to say or have a hard time sorting your thoughts before you speak.

Be careful of how you communicate with other during this time and try to use kind words. Gossip may flow easily during a retrograde in Gemini – but that doesn’t mean it won’t come back around.

Cancer

Even though mercury retrograde is known to be a bit of a hectic time, it is a great time to complete finished projects. A mercury retrograde in the sign of Cancer encourages you to finish any projects that you’ve been struggling to.

You may feel as though the energy of a Cancer mercury retrograde is bringing you backward in order to bring you forward. Use this time to grow and look deeper at aspects of your life which could use a conclusion.

Leo

Mercury retrograde in the sign of Leo urges us to be cautious with our investments. Be careful with your money at this time – as you may be prone to overspending or jumping head first into the wrong project.

Instead seek the advice of friends with regards to financials and investments during this time. Don’t feel pressured to make a decision during this period.

Virgo

Retrograde in the detail oriented Virgo urges us to pay close attention to the details. If you are careless or sloppy you may see the results of this during this period. Your car may break down if you have not taken meticulous care of it.

Make sure that you don’t miss any of the details during this time. If you are signing a contract be sure to read it over carefully beforehand.

The people around you may seem extra irritable during this time – try to treat this with kindness.

Libra

The sign of Libra is represented by the scales, balance above all else. When mercury retrograde falls under the sign of Libra you may feel as though life has been turned upside down. This period may feel out of balance. Be careful not to spread yourself thin.

During a mercury retrograde in Libra take lots of time for self-care. Don’t be afraid to set boundaries with those around you. Your happiness and wellbeing should be at the forefront during this time.

Scorpio

Mercury retrograde in Scorpio deals heavily with emotion. Keep your feelings close to your heart during this time. Be careful not to gossip about those you care for. Do not tell others your secrets during this time as there is a high probability they will no longer be secrets.

Instead keep your thoughts and feelings (along with your secrets) confined to a journal during this time. That will allow you to process them in a healthy way – without the interference of others.

Sagittarius

The sign of Sagittarius is widely associated with the concepts of freedom and travel. While a mercury retrograde in Sagittarius moves this energy in reverse. Avoid taking trips or scheduling travel plans. Do expect to be met with opposition if you travel during this time.

Instead try to stay close to home and appreciate what you have built. Do not get too caught up in the idealistic mindset of Sagittarius.

Capricorn

As an earth sign Capricorn relates to all matters in the physical and tangible. During this period exhibit cation around matter relating to property-one should not buy a home during this time (or make any similar investments). Instead use this time to look at the assets you’ve built and enjoy them.

Take time off from work and spend it with family and friends. Enjoy the life you’ve built – and most of all try not to stress about finances or anything in the material. Focus put into relationships at this time with be beneficial.

Aquarius

A mercury retrograde in the sign of Aquarius may show you who your true friends are. Avoid petty squabbles and other forms of miscommunication. Take a time out for yourself during this period. Focus on self-care- meditate, take a bath or write in a journal.

If you do loose contact with someone in your life during this time you may find that it was for the best. Look at every situation to make sure it serves you and is in line with your goals.

Pisces

The zodiac sign of Pisces is known for living in their heads – in a world completely separate from factual reality. You may find that the energy of mercury retrograde in Pisces launches you directly into a world of fantasy.

Don’t forget the world of reality that you live in – though the daydreaming may be nice. You may have a tendency to forget plans and miss important dates during this time. Try to keep a planner to add order to your everyday schedule.