Let's get something clear: Mercury retrograde isn't ruining your life. It's exposing what was already shaky.
From 24 October to 13 November 2026, Mercury goes retrograde in Scorpio. Cue the memes about exes texting, laptops dying and contracts falling through. Some of that happens. But blaming a planet for everything is the opposite of radical self-honesty.
What Mercury retrograde actually is
Mercury rules communication, thinking, travel and technology. About three times a year it appears to move backwards from where we stand on Earth. Astrologically, that's a time to slow down and look back: review, revisit, repair.
The "re" words are the point. This isn't the time to start something brand new. It's the time to finish, fix and finally say what you mean.
Why this one is intense
This retrograde happens in Scorpio, at the same time as Scorpio season. So the review isn't about your inbox. It's about secrets, power, intimacy and things left unsaid. If someone from your past turns up in the next three weeks, ask yourself what conversation you never finished with them, or with yourself.
The Magician: Mercury's card
In tarot, Mercury is linked to The Magician, card I. The Magician has every tool on the table and knows how to use them. During a retrograde, that's your reminder: you don't need anything new. You need to use what you already have, with more honesty.
The Mercury retrograde spread
Shuffle while you ask: What does this retrograde want me to finish, fix and finally say? Lay out four cards in a row.
1. What needs finishing. A project, plan or chapter you've left half-done.
2. What needs fixing. Something broken, in a relationship, a system or your own thinking.
3. What I need to say. The honest conversation you've been avoiding, and who it might be with.
4. How to come out the other side. The energy or action that helps you move forward when Mercury goes direct on 13 November.
If a card comes up reversed, don't panic. During a retrograde, a reversal often shows where you're stuck going over the same ground. Ask what you keep replaying instead of resolving.
Retrograde survival rules
• Back up your files and double-check bookings and dates.
• Re-read before you hit send, especially on anything emotional.
• Revisit old ideas before chasing new ones. Something you shelved may be ready now.
• Don't use the retrograde as an excuse. If you know what you need to say, say it, kindly and clearly.
Want to go deeper?
A retrograde is a great time for a reading, because so much comes up to be looked at. At Black Salt Tarot I read to show you the truth, not to tell you your future. Book a 1:1 in person in the Illawarra and Sydney, or online.
Book your reading
New here? Start with the companion post: Scorpio season and the Death card.
See the truth. Choose your power.
