You've heard of Mercury retrograde: the time when Mercury slows down, creating havoc for us earthlings when it comes to communication, travel, and technology. However, there’s also a phase that occurs a few weeks before and after the planetary moonwalk called “retroshade”—and trust me, it can be worse than the actual retrograde.
Many years ago, I coined the term retroshade after noticing the pre- and post-retrograde periods were more complex. Mercury, the planet that connects us through many facets—including the mind, language, and the exchange of information—begins to act sluggish at this moment, highlighting matters that need our attention by dropping hints and unexpected truth bombs. We have an inkling of what is going on before the planet’s backspin begins (because it’s visiting the degrees it’ll hit two more times), and spend the retrograde dealing with the story that began then.
The post-retrograde period revisits the degrees that Mercury trampled over before and during the retrograde. Now, we are making final decisions about how we want to move forward after the big reveal from the retrograde. With more information coming to light—since Mercury revisits the pre-shadow and retrograde zone for a third and final time—it might be impossible to forgive and move on, hard for us to bite our tongues, and difficult to say “goodbye” to those who’ve done us wrong. Even if we do, the circumstances are most likely to repeat themselves because the retroshade phase makes problems perpetuate. Although no resolution might feel better than an unsatisfying solution, the endless recurrence can be frustrating.
This time around, the post-retroshade period in Pisces lasts from March 20 to April 9. Be smart and watch your words. The pre-retroshade transpired from February 11 to 26, with the retrograde spinning backward from February 26 to March 20. Emotions will be intense, so be kind and compassionate to others and yourselves.
Read below to find out how Mercury retroshade in Pisces will affect your zodiac sign:
Aries
Living in your own bubble is a safe place to be if you want to hide away, but you’ll eventually have to come out and play. You can avoid drama with others by being careful and mindful of whom you surround yourself with. Energy is contagious, and you must protect yours from those who do not have your best interests at heart.
Taurus
This is a wonderful time to assess your true friends. Over the past few weeks, you’ve discovered who you can rely on, which is why you need to value those who have stood by you through thick and thin. Not only will appreciating these people deepen your connection, but it also gives you a chance to build a strong foundation for the months ahead.
Gemini
Even though the promotion you've been hoping for isn’t coming to fruition anytime soon, you can still make advantageous professional moves during the retroshade period that will help you make a strong argument for your case. Hyping yourself up will make it easier for management to see how talented you are and how your efforts are vital to the company.
Cancer
Your spring getaway plans might be put on pause due to scheduling conflicts or travel issues, such as an expired passport. If you choose to wing it and still go on the trip, there might be delays or unforeseen circumstances that dampen your vacation. Try to make the most of it and go with the flow, no matter what happens.
Leo
We all have skeletons in our closets that we will never reveal to anyone; however, you may accidentally share your secrets and let the cat out of the bag. Before paranoia makes you feel judged, understand that the people you shared it with aren’t going to look at you with side-eye; they’ll respect your honesty. It’ll be a bonding moment.
Virgo
A former partner is trying to insert themselves back into your life, even going as far as to send daily apology emails to you. Regardless of how you choose to respond to this situation, look at it from an ego perspective—gratifying to know they’re repenting for their past behavior and offering you the opportunity to have the final word.
Libra
Motivating yourself has been difficult since Mercury retrograde began. Now you’re finding that your energy is still depleted and in need of a pick-me-up. Before you take on more projects and commit to social engagements, give yourself R&R to boost your vitality. Take long lunch breaks, a walk in the park, or a midday nap to reinvigorate your aura.
Scorpio
It’ll be frustrating for ideas to come to fruition, since you feel as though your artistry is unable to take flight. Instead of banging your head against the wall, take a break and look for inspiration from daily life. You may find your biggest muse out in the wild and not in the office, so head out into beautiful nature.
Sagittarius
After painting your walls a unique color that looked amazing on social media, but not in your home, you’re regretting your choice. Before you spiral, realize that it’s a simple fix and you can rectify the error. Wait until after Mercury retroshade ends on April 9 to make a final decision about the hue to ensure you’re not repeating mistakes.
Capricorn
Getting caught up in a daydream is challenging if you aren’t able to catch yourself (or have a close friend or family member to give you a gentle reality check) from constantly living in a fantasy. Make sure you can maintain a logical perspective even when you are caught up in a dream. You don’t want to fall too hard.
Aquarius
Since you’ve been picking up the tab lately, it’s only polite for those you have been dining with to return the favor by treating you once in a while. If they don’t make the first move when the check arrives, tell them how it offends your hospitality. Reciprocation is key in relationships to ensure you're not being taken for granted.
Pisces
Disappointments and regrets might linger in the air, but that doesn’t mean you should remain stuck in a moment and hold yourself back. There are so many possibilities that are constantly unfolding and opening, which is why being present and letting go of these emotions is imperative to your happiness. As the saying goes, “One door closes, and another opens…”