We interrupt your seasonal frolicking with an important planetary PSA: Mercury is turning retrograde from November 25 to December 15. If this sounds like a sharp record scratch over your holiday playlist, please allow us to apologize on behalf of the cosmos. This is not the kind of news we enjoy delivering, but forewarned is forearmed.
A quick refresh on Mercury retrograde: Three times each year, the buzzy planet passes the Earth in its orbit. When it does, it creates an illusion, which makes it appear to be moving backwards through the sky. It’s a lot like what happens when two trains pass each other at different speeds, and one seems to be moving in reverse all of a sudden.
For about three weeks, everything that Mercury is associated with in astrology seems to be thrown into chaos: communication, data, messaging, scheduling, shipping and mail, travel plans. Basically everything “holiday season” is getting fucked with, and no, we’re not excited about that at all.
Sending gifts? Given the timing of this Mercury retrograde, you may want to pay for that expedited, two-day shipping instead of trusting Santa’s GPS with a basic ground delivery. Booking a plane ticket? Triple check that your reservation was fully confirmed and that your card was accepted. Tech glitches are another special feature of Mercury retrograde, especially if you’re using a mobile device.
Traveling during this three-week window? Heed the standard retrograde warnings, and leave extra early for the airport. Wear your cozies, and bring things to entertain you in case of delays. It doesn’t help that this Mercury retrograde takes place in the sign of Sagittarius, which rules long-distance journeys. Rushing to the gate or waiting until you arrive at your destination to rent a car or reserve a shuttle is not recommended—at least not if you want to keep your blood pressure at a healthy level.
While you might have no control over the weather, which incidentally is also ruled by Mercury in astrology, you can adjust your mindset so that you won’t be utterly freaked out if you hit a long line and your plane is taking off in a short time.
If you’re going to visit family, specifically family of a diametrically opposite political perspective, know this: Mercury retrogrades are notorious for causing communication to melt down. With this backspin taking place in Sagittarius, the sign of the straight shooter, remaining diplomatic might be too great an expectation to place upon yourself. If you feel like sitting out Thanksgiving for the sake of long-term family harmony—and your own mental health—we wouldn’t blame you.
Plus, there’s a silver lining to decisions like these. Since Mercury retrograde is good for all sorts of “re” based activities, like reuniting and reconnecting, cathartic Friendsgiving plans could emerge with people who you’ve been meaning to catch up with for months.
More “re” activities to consider: revamping, reorganizing, and reconfiguring. If your closet could use an edit or you’ve been thinking about rearranging the furniture in your living room for a more conversational setting, turn on the festive playlists and get to sorting. We guarantee it will be more enjoyable than arguing with your cousin about the impact of tariffs on the U.S. economy.
Even if you do decide to head into tricky family terrain, controlled exposure is advisable. Shorten your stay, or get an Airbnb, instead of couch surfing. The investment in your serenity will be worth every penny.
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The AstroTwins 2025 Horoscope
