It’s Mercury retrograde — the first of 2020 — which began on February 16 in Pisces, bringing a characteristic fog of uncertainty. Mercury then moved back into Aquarius, spending just under a week retrograde there. Mercury appears retrograde when, from Earth’s viewpoint, it seems to move backward through the zodiac. This planet retrogrades more often than others, typically three to four times a year for roughly three weeks each time.
If you’re new to retrogrades, it helps to read a general guide on planetary retrogrades to get oriented.
Mercury will retrograde three times in 2020: this early-year retrograde, another in June–July, and a final one in October–November. If you want to track upcoming Mercury retrograde dates, use an astrology calendar to keep up with planetary movements.
Impact of Mercury Retrograde in Aquarius 2020
Retrogrades tend to unsettle plans, and Mercury retrograde is especially likely to create disruptions. Mercury in Aquarius normally encourages unconventional thinking and a desire for independence. When Mercury is retrograde in Aquarius, people can feel restless, rebellious, or boxed in by circumstances. You might want changes you can’t have or resist changes that are happening, or feel more isolated from others than usual. This urge to break free can be productive if you channel it into constructive action when you’ve been feeling stuck.
It’s also common to feel pessimistic about long-term goals or to question a dream’s feasibility during this time. That sense of defeat is often just Mercury stirring doubt rather than revealing an absolute truth. Try not to make permanent decisions out of temporary insecurity. Let the retrograde pass and redirect your focus for now.
Allow yourself and others room to be authentic. Pressuring people or rigidly confining yourself to a role will likely cause more friction. Embrace originality and individuality and be open to intellectual growth — Mercury in Aquarius can stimulate fresh ideas and new perspectives.
Generally, Mercury retrograde favors the “re-” activities: redo, revise, revisit, rethink, refocus. It’s a good time to release old patterns and revamp projects, relationships, or plans that need fine-tuning rather than launching ambitious new initiatives.
Mercury Retrograde in Aquarius 2020 Horoscopes
Below are concise pointers for each zodiac sign to consider during this Mercury retrograde.
Aries:
You may feel inclined to let go of something you’ve been gripping tightly. If this release comes from clarity rather than hopelessness, it can free up energy to redirect toward needed changes. Clear out what’s draining you and focus on next steps.
Taurus:
Plans for the future might stall temporarily. Use the pause to reassess goals and strategies. Think creatively instead of defaulting to strictly practical or traditional approaches — there may be innovative paths forward.
Gemini:
Ambition might push you to think big, but avoid overreaching. Balance big ideas with realistic steps and manage responsibilities so overwhelm doesn’t hinder progress. Take breaks when needed.
Cancer:
Adopting a more serious, realistic approach to major ideas can help — but don’t let pessimism snuff out optimism. Finding a balance between realism and hope will clarify your direction.
Leo:
Intimate relationships and deep emotions may come to the surface. You might crave closeness yet feel disconnected. Avoid desperation or possessiveness; give yourself and others space and redirect obsessive energy into healthier channels.
Virgo:
People close to you may be demanding attention, and you might be tempted to pick at details. Try to use your observations constructively rather than overly critiquing, so relationships benefit from your care instead of resentment.
Libra:
Your schedule could fill with small tasks, leaving little time for enjoyment. If stress has been building, grant yourself permission to rest and do something fun to recharge.
Scorpio:
If you’ve focused on the pleasurable side of things without addressing emotional depth, satisfaction may feel lacking. Consider the emotional connections beneath the surface to create more meaningful experiences.
Sagittarius:
Strong feelings may arise, and working to understand the emotional core of situations can strengthen you internally. Using thoughtful self-talk or discussion can help you navigate emotional challenges.
Capricorn:
You might have been mentally scattered across many projects. Slow down to give your mind a break and stay present. Reconnecting with the moment will improve clarity and focus.
Aquarius:
When Mercury moved through Pisces you may have felt stalled; now that Mercury is in your sign things can pick up — though perhaps in unexpected ways. Many small matters might demand attention. Breathe, pace yourself, and consider revisiting something small with a second chance.
Pisces:
With the retrograde beginning in your sign and then moving into Aquarius, this period can offer a pause to reflect and release what no longer serves you. Prioritize spiritual care and listen to your intuition as you let go.
Final Note:
This Mercury retrograde in Aquarius is brief, but it’s only the start. Mercury will retrograde in Aquarius again over the next two years, so notice themes that appear now — they may recur in early 2021 and 2022.
Related Article: The Complete Guide to 2020 Retrogrades