The final Mercury retrograde in 2024 is coming! This time it's entirely in Sagittarius, between November 25th and December 15th. Fittingly, this time of year is often a moment of pause and reflection on the year gone by. Mercury knows what he’s doing. His annual retrograde at this point is a powerful opportunity to renew, review, reflect, and reset. So, what will this retrograde do?
This Mercury retrograde occurs entirely in fire sign Sagittarius, the sign of expansion. Sagittarius is new experiences, adventures, and optimism, but Mercury is known to be in his ‘detriment’ here, indicating that the powers of logic may not be on our side. So, with this Mercury retrograde, we may either go too far and are unrealistic and impractical, or we may avoid this and run away from opportunities for new experiences and expansion. Words may spill out unwittingly, tactlessly, thoughtlessly, as we attempt to enthusiastically convey what we know to be our truth; yet, our truth is often not the same as another’s.
Sagittarius wants space, and we're likely pushing to get as much space as possible with this Mercury retrograde. We may push too much as a result, and end up running from responsibilities that we need to work on, and run away from people that end up hurt. When we stop running later, we might regret it, but we may not be able to fix it, so it's important that we control this desire to run. If we can get creative, we can find some of the space we need where we are already, even if only in our minds. We can get more space later, but being smart about it works out much better.
This retrograde can be great for picking back up a big idea and giving it another shot; for travelling somewhere you've been to before; for re-learning or re-teaching something; for reconnecting with an old mentor or student; and for any editing.
Instead of moving into the shadow expression of Sagittarius—self-righteousness - creating a space of understanding, of reflection, of kindness and reconciliation—will be key to avoiding the potential blowouts that any retrograde in a fire sign can bring. Especially considering that Mars also goes retrograde on December 6th in the sign of Leo. If we wish to prevent an all-out war, we will need to pick our battles wisely.
Mercury Retrograde in Sagittarius 2024 Key Dates:
The shadow period for this retrograde is November 7th 2024 - January 2nd 2025. There are normally two storm periods, and the storm periods for this retrograde are November 21st - 30th 2024 & December 12th - 20th 2024. Mercury visits three planets three times pre, during, and post retrograde.
The first of these is a trine to Chiron, the Wounded Healer. This invites a deep opportunity to use our words as healing balm, to speak our truth with clarity, wisdom, and a view of the bigger picture, with the intention to care for and advise rather than dominate or force. Occurring on November 19th, December 2, and December 31, this is a beautiful chance to reframe our perspectives and learn from our mistakes.
Mercury conjuncts the Sun on December 5th 2024 at 14 degrees Sagittarius. This is the Inferior Conjunction, a positive point in the retrograde for starting something that can be a focus for the next 6-8 weeks; find where it falls in your chart, and that may be where you can start something. Whatever specific teachings this retrograde is trying to impart to you, this is when they come into sharp focus. So pay attention. Insights can arrive through many channels, from insightful dreams to serendipitous encounters with friends to resonant books toppling from shelves. Keep a journal or your notes app on deck to jot down any words or phrases or ideas that flutter through the cosmos and light up your synapses. When you integrate this wisdom, you level up the way you think, communicate, organise, and make meaning of your life.
Mercury will also dance with bigger-picture Jupiter in Gemini on November 18, December 4, and December 26. In mutual reception (in each other's ruling signs), this opposition invites the chance for philosophical dispute, the exchange of ideas, the maturing and deepening of knowledge and experience, of wisdom. Being open to the thoughts of others without losing sight of the overall perspective is crucial lest we become lost in ideals. Hot air and a know-it-all attitude never helped anyone. This can be a time for time away and doing nothing.
Finally, Mercury meets with structured Saturn on November 12, December 6, and December 27. Mercury square Saturn is a challenging aspect, and we may struggle with feeling overwhelmed by responsibility, all that we have on our plates, and we're trapped. We have too much on our shoulders, and our options feel really limited. This makes us extremely pessimistic. This square may also cast a shadow of doubt on our willingness to share our words, to share our opinions. We have to work on finding some space within the limitations, and stick to plans. We need to stay disciplined and keep on track, and do things the right way and for the right reasons. Then we can emerge in a better place.
Final Notes:
The retrograde starts at 22 degrees Sagittarius, so those of you born December 11th - 16th may feel the start of the retrograde most. The retrograde ends at 6 degrees Sagittarius, so those of you born November 25th - 30th may feel the end of the retrograde most.
For the rest of you, check the house(s) Mercury will be retrograding in your own natal chart, and any aspects Mercury will make during its retrograde to your natal planets, to fully understand how it will impact you personally.
If you have Mercury retrograde in your natal or progressed chart, you may not feel the worst of this. Those individuals generally don't experience the difficulties of the retrograde because it feels more natural to them.
Of course, chances are everyone else around them doesn't have the same aspect, so they can still experience difficulties brought on by others. If it's in your natal chart, check out this article about Mercury retrograde in the natal chart.
ARIES ♈
Your hard-wiring of impulsiveness can often lead you to act instinctively rather than reflectively, yet this retrograde insists that you engage the soulful underpinnings of life, making you address some emotional and sentimental areas of your life that might be uncomfortable, or even foreign, to you. When your intuition is not as clear and you begin to feel doubt, you may want to step back and analyse why things aren't working out the way you envision. However, while reflection is important, try not to overthink or let the reflections take too much of your energy.
Don't forget to read your Weekly or your Monthly Horoscope.
TAURUS ♉
Through shadow work, long-ingrained patterns in your life will be brought to light, revealing new ways of embracing healthier habits and attitudes, while at the same time forcing you to confront the parts of yourself you'd rather keep hidden. This uncomfortable process carries a profound reward in the form of self-acceptance and personal growth. As you reconcile with your shadow, you will rediscover your intrinsic value and build a deeper sense of self-worth; however, you need to lean into this uncomfortable yet enlightening journey, never to forget its purpose-healing and renewal.
Don't forget to read your Weekly or your Monthly Horoscope.
GEMINI ♊
Mercury retrograde stirs up old remnants, and former lovers or long-estranged friends may be revisiting your life. But before you slide headfirst into old, familiar grooves, consider whether or not the emotional labour it takes is worth the time and energy based on your priorities and wants today. Trust issues, persistent doubts, and unresolved conflicts may arise that would make it necessary to closely weigh the dynamics involved or else you may find these relationships becoming stalemated rather than developing, in which case you might wonder if they have a place in your future.
Don't forget to read your Weekly or your Monthly Horoscope.
CANCER ♋
The undercurrent of tension, while this retrograde is displacing your typical rhythms and routines, may make even the minor things feel monumental, but meet it with your adaptability and small steps toward adjusting, which will loosen up the strain and help you move further into a more harmonious balance. Of course, reaching balance might seem to be up the mountain, but cultivating mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, can even out your emotional energy; remember to breathe during those moments of frustration, it will indeed pass with time.
Don't forget to read your Weekly or your Monthly Horoscope.
LEO ♌
Though this retrograde won't be very difficult, it has the potential to make you feel like your relationships are superficial and you want more substantial contact. Still, lighter interactions can add humour and lightness to relationships. Instead of letting boredom get the better of you, or creating drama that's just not necessary, put your energy into creative pursuits or joyous activities that keep you busy without over-complicating a situatio
Don't forget to read your Weekly or your Monthly Horoscope.
VIRGO ♍
This period offers an opportunity to reconnect with your inner self through introspection and expressive practices like journaling, which can help you uncover emotions that may have been buried beneath the surface; as you give voice to these feelings, you’ll gain clarity and insight into the core of your being.
In this way, you'll be setting the foundation for personal strength that will serve you in great stead once the retrograde is over. Meanwhile, give yourself permission to know-and love-your changing identity.
Don't forget to read your Weekly or your Monthly Horoscope.
LIBRA ♎
This is a time when the urge for adventure and discovery in your life is high, which will make you plan a well-deserved vacation. Still, chaotic events from this retrograde may test your organising capability, so planning has to be meticulous. Everything from keeping your travelling documents safe to rechecking itineraries and setting reminders multiple times, preparation is going to be your saviour. With due diligence, it would be possible to overcome those obstacles and have a really enriching respite from the humdrum of life.
Don't forget to read your Weekly or your Monthly Horoscope.
SCORPIO ♏
Financial matters may come to the fore and encourage you to draw on those resources you've been setting aside for a rainy day; while spending wisely is important, this can also be a good time to reconsider and fine-tune your budgeting. You will be rediscovering the methodologies of better money management, whereby you shall come across various ways in which stability and growth can be attained. By the time this retrograde ends, you'll emerge with a more empowered perspective on your finances and a renewed sense of control over your future.
Don't forget to read your Weekly or your Monthly Horoscope.
SAGITTARIUS ♐
The mental overload this retrograde brings can make you feel restive and irritable; still, it would be an ideal time to channel this energy into creative outlets: art, music, writing, or some other creative work, transforming this inner chaos into something beautiful and meaningful. Through these expressive practices, you’ll not only find relief from frustration but also gain a deeper understanding of the emotions that lie beneath; this process of creation and self-reflection will ultimately allow you to restore a sense of balance and peace.
Don't forget to read your Weekly or your Monthly Horoscope.
CAPRICORN ♑
You can be more in tune with psychic energy during this retrograde and attract more encounters with people on the astral plane. While such interactions may be interesting, it is time to set boundaries and not allow one's energies to be dissipated. If something feels like a draining entity or a wasteful conversation, remove yourself without judgment; the care of your emotional and energetic body is the most important thing, particularly when working with forces that question your sense of safety.
Don't forget to read your Weekly or your Monthly Horoscope.
AQUARIUS ♒
Reconnection is more a theme, as this retrograde impels you to care for friendships and strengthen the ties which keep you fulfilled, or so to speak, filled with life, in reminding you of mutual caring and support within your circle of friends. Whether it is through personal discussions or activity sharing, the moment of togetherness will elevate your spirits; just make sure to even out your interactions with active listening and ensure that your voice gets heard in return as well.
Don't forget to read your Weekly or your Monthly Horoscope.
PISCES ♓
Professional dynamics could be tense during this time, as frustrations and insecurities might pop up to the surface with colleagues' behaviours or attitudes challenging your composure. It is vital, however, not to lose perspective and allow these tensions to undermine your self-confidence. While working in an environment full of challenge, one can develop patience by paying less attention to the actions of others and more attention to one's own; with a firm grip on your inner calm, this will see you above the negativity, firmly set on harmony.
