Why Is Mercury Retrograde in Leo So Intense?

On 18th of July, Mercury will station retrograde in Leo, where our Εgos are bound to take a hit. Think about it: as the planet of communication reverses through this proud and passionate Fire sign, even the most confident personas could encounter a rude awakening.

In theatrical and vivacious Leo, the messenger planet is all the more creative, expressive and bold in its approach. This Fire sign is, after all, ruled by the Sun, which can explain why it often thrives on attention and recognition — Mercury in Leo is loud and full of enthusiasm. 

Your ideas feel larger than life, and you may even find yourself wanting to take the spotlight and explore your creative potential. This is the time to speak your truth, even if it feels like you're drawing all eyes to you.

But wait! As Mercury stations retrograde, that confidence and flair can quickly turn into confusion, misunderstandings and the usual technology mishaps. 

When Mercury retrogrades in Leo, things may not go as smoothly as we’d like, leaving us with no choice but to navigate misunderstandings, delayed responses and perhaps an ego clash or two. Leo’s need for praise can lead to issues in how we’re perceived or how we express ourselves.

This can result in moments where you feel misunderstood, particularly in personal and creative endeavours. Whether it's through public speaking or a social media post, be especially mindful of your delivery, as this could be the time when you accidentally say the wrong thing to someone important or when a message you thought was clear gets misinterpreted.

On a brighter note, however, this is an excellent time to take a step back and re-evaluate your creative direction. If you’re a content creator, consider how you can maximise your potential. If you’re a boss or an authority figure, reflect on your approach as a leader — don’t let your pride get in the way.

During this time, we will be forced to embrace our secret and clandestine actions — or fall back on old desires. Embracing the taboo is essential now, as we can dive deep within and find the courage to address and assert our passions for the next few weeks. 

Power can be an aphrodisiac, as the Leo energy tends to be attracted to those who are infamous or successful. But now we use our authoritative energy to attract others we deem equals (and vice versa). The only caveat is that old relationship issues may resurface in a battle of control. 

Pro tip: Take the drama with your special one or your crush to the bedroom and allow each other to take turns taking the lead between the sheets. 

Mercury retrograde in Leo urges us to re-evaluate what our hearts need and want. Meditate on what and who makes you happy to assist in the process. This is a moment of reflection and contemplation — but we’ll have our passionate disputes because Leo loves theatrics.

Mercury isn’t making many planetary connections while it reverses course this time around, so while a little drama is inevitable, there will likely be fewer complications during this backspin than most. However, the highlight comes on 31 July, when Mercury meets with the sun in Leo to form what’s known as a Mercury cazimi. This cosmic connection marks the midpoint of the retrograde, but more importantly, it serves as a bright spot of clarity during an otherwise confusing time. Keep your mind open to connections or mental breakthroughs, as this could be a time when things click into place.

As usual with Mercury retrograde, be careful in your wording and think about the context before sending a text. Arguments over misinterpretation is a common tendency at this time, so be mindful of your tonality. Travel delays, tech issues, and past emotions coming out are common. The only thing that matters is how you choose to deal with the situation. Go with the flow and do not overreact. Most problems are correctible — just blame the retrograde. 

In the meantime, read on for what Mercury retrograde in Leo has in store for your zodiac sign.

Aries horoscope for Mercury retrograde in Leo.

Never say never, Aries. Watch out for communication mishaps in your love life as Mercury retrograde could bring exes back into the picture or worse, stir up misunderstandings in your current relationships. If you're rekindling a romance, proceed with caution — miscommunications could lead to a fireworks show of unnecessary drama!

Taurus horoscope for Mercury retrograde in Leo.

Your home and personal life may feel chaotic during this retrograde period, Taurus. Mercury’s backspin through Leo could stir up old family dramas as it forces you to revisit unresolved issues and tensions swept under the rug. A conversation about your living situation or a family vacation could easily get tangled in confusion. Clear the air, but don’t rush into decisions.

Gemini horoscope for Mercury retrograde in Leo.

You’re ruled by Mercury, so retrogrades always hit close to home, Gemini. Whether it be your communication style or travel plans, one thing’s for sure: delays are inevitable. Expect mixed messages, missed appointments or perhaps the resurfacing of an old text thread from someone you’d rather forget. Double-check all details before hitting send!

Cancer horoscope for Mercury retrograde in Leo.

Watch your spending closely, Cancer. Financial plans could hit a snag during this retrograde, but it’s not without a lesson or two. After all, in Leo, the messenger planet wants you to be confident and authentic and in your stability-seeking second house, this has a lot to do with your money, values and sense of self-worth. Still, try to hold off from signing contracts or making major purchases until the fog clears.

Leo horoscope for Mercury retrograde in Leo.

You’re under the spotlight of this retrograde, but not in the way you’d hope, Leo. With Mercury retrograde in your sign, you’re not only reconsidering your self-image, but also your approach to relationships. You may revisit old ideas about your personal branding or how you’re presenting yourself to the world. Hearing unexpected feedback is also likely. Still, don’t rush into changes without clarifying details and logistics.

Virgo horoscope for Mercury retrograde in Leo.

A lot’s coming up to the surface, so it’s OK to feel confused during this time, Virgo. Truth is, in addition to being ruled by Mercury and especially receptive to its retrogrades, this transit will ignite your 12th house of unconscious patterns, bringing forgotten memories and dreams to the forefront. Although this can be a powerful time for reflection and deep introspection, it’s easy to become lost in thought. Your healing begins with clarity and peace of mind.

Libra horoscope for Mercury retrograde in Leo.

Take some well-deserved time for yourself, as friendships and social circles face communication breakdowns, Libra. Backspinning through your 11th house of social contributions, Mercury retrograde will likely trigger misunderstandings or bring old connections back into focus. Stay patient with your friends and colleagues, and try your best not to rush into cliques or group affiliations. A big social event could also be rescheduled.

Scorpio horoscope for Mercury retrograde in Leo.

Chin up, and try your best to do your part, Scorpio. Mercury retrograde in Leo will not only influence your public persona but also communications within your career. Shaking things up in your 10th house of authority, this can cause delays and misunderstandings in your professional life, so it’s important to be extra careful and diligent with emails and negotiations — details are bound to get lost in translation. Also, it’s a great time to consider your long-term goals.

Sagittarius horoscope for Mercury retrograde in Leo.

Your worldview is shifting unexpectedly, Sagittarius. Whether personally, professionally or in your one-on-one relationships, Mercury retrograde urges you to be authentic in your pursuits. Are you happy? Moreover, be mindful of itineraries as travel plans may get delayed. The same goes for those of you working on a creative project — take time to focus on the bigger picture and, more importantly, consider your personal fulfillment.

Capricorn horoscope for Mercury retrograde in Leo.

How much of yourself are you willing to invest, Capricorn? Are you getting what you deserve in return? With Mercury retrograde in Leo shaking things up in your eighth house of mergers, joint ventures and shared resources, you are more likely to face miscommunications around hidden matters or joint ventures – other sources of income are no exception. Don't rush into making promises about money or investments. Reconsider your plans with patience and clarity instead.

Aquarius horoscope for Mercury retrograde in Leo.

Your commitments and relationships are under the spotlight of this retrograde transit, Aquarius. Mercury retrograde in Leo is not only bringing the past back around for a second look, but also encouraging you to take a closer look at how you communicate with partners and collaborators. Although starting new partnerships isn’t necessarily suggested, it’s a good time to renegotiate boundaries.

Pisces horoscope for Mercury retrograde in Leo.

Sort out your priorities, Pisces! Mercury retrograde in Leo is shaking things up in your sixth house of health, work routines and due diligence, which means you are more likely to experience delays and confusion around tasks and schedules. Still, it’s a good time to revisit old habits or routines and make necessary adjustments. Just make sure you communicate clearly with your coworkers.