Hold your horses because the first retrograde of the season has officially entered the chat. It starts on February 26 and will end on March 20. Keeping up with its name, the Mercury retrograde is here to cause havoc, chaos, and make things go upside down. But not in the way you would imagine. Yes, there will be drama, some closure, and many overwhelming moments that might make you question your life decisions. But more than anything, this is the year’s biggest emotional cosmic intervention, and if you don’t learn to accept, embrace, let go, or move on, you could have a hard time. So, take all the hints that you’re getting to rework and reassess your path and actions. The universe is setting the record straight early on. Make sure you don’t snooze because if you do, you’ll definitely lose. Here’s what the Mercury retrograde in February 2026 brings for you.

Related: Horoscope For 2026: It Is Time For A Reset, Here’s What The Universe Is Brewing For You This Year

What does Mercury retrograde mean?

Mercury in retrograde is a period in astrological transit when Mercury moves slower than the Earth around the sun. So, when viewed from Earth, it creates an optical illusion that it is moving backwards. Hence the term ‘Mercury is in retrograde’. Mercury is the closest planet to the sun and takes about 88 days to complete its way around the giant star. So, when Mercury is in retrograde, every aspect of life ruled by this planet goes haywire. It includes everything from your daily communication, finances, travel, information, social media, relationships, and basically, your whole life. That’s why, when Mercury is in retrograde, people lose their minds over anything and everything.

What does Mercury retrograde in Pisces mean for you?

Mercury retrograde in the water sign Pisces means upheaval of emotions and a lot of drama for you to handle. But unlike the usual fire or air sign period that brings heat, chaos, and absolute madness, this period will feel more confusing and make you sit through your most uncomfortable and unpleasant emotions. While this could feel draining and possibly bring up the demons you had buried, it is also creating space by forcing you to confront and clear the clutter. Think unwanted conversations, decisions that feel risky, and communication that requires constant overexplaining and follow-up. This is the universe’s way of making sure you make space for what’s coming ahead in the year. So, slow down, no matter how infuriating it feels. Revisit important projects and financial investments, and ditch relationships that repeatedly disrespect your opinions and boundaries.

1. Aries (March 21–April 19)

We are in the first quarter of the year, whereas you have already reached the last quarter in your head, Aries. While the universe appreciates your enthusiasm and zeal to do bigger and better than last year, it also reminds you to slow down. The Mercury retrograde in February 2026 does not bring a blaring warning sign but just a gentle reminder to pace yourself for the rest of the year. You’re not running out of time, you’re not being left behind, and everyone has their own pace.

2. Taurus (April 20–May 20)

People from the past are making a major comeback in your life this retrograde season, Taurus. So, entertain them graciously, as old friends or colleagues will bring a welcome surprise and some worthy opportunities for you to consider. Retrogrades aren’t always bad; sometimes they nudge us to change paths because the existing routine might not be the best. So, if some decisions or plans don’t work out, don’t beat yourself up over it. Consider it a sign from the universe to change your plan of action to reap better rewards.

3. Gemini (May 21–June 20)

The Mercury retrograde in February 2026 might bring certain obstacles and slowdowns on the work front for you, Gemini. This could be a frustrating period, as things might not go per your timeline. But this will also give you time to go back to old conversations or reconnect with a colleague or acquaintance who might offer some insightful advice. Sometimes, learning from the past is better than making the same mistakes in different ways. Don’t go against the tide. Learn to swim with it and you’ll find yourself on the shore sooner than later.

4. Cancer (June 21–July 22)

You might have outgrown some friendships in the process of growing up, but have you left your old ride-or-dies on the fence? The retrograde season is highlighting some old patterns that have caused you hurt and harm in terms of personal relationships. It gives you a chance to initiate conversation and mend those friendships. You don’t necessarily need to make new friends; maybe you need to go back to your old group, who understood you better than anyone else and might be willing to let go and begin again.

5. Leo (July 23–August 22)

The retrograde period brings a chance to declutter your emotional state by letting go of your fears, insecurities, and guilt for things you couldn’t change in the past. This is also a good time to rework your bond with your partner and set a new premise for going forward, so no past mistakes are repeated. Take into consideration how you share finances and what your long-term and short-term goals are, your plans for the year, and so on. Building a strong foundation takes time, healing, trust, and relearning things. Don’t be harsh on yourself; retrogrades have a way of making us see through ourselves and improve for the better.

6. Virgo (August 23–September 22)

The Mercury retrograde in February 2026 is pushing you out of denial, asking you to reset some boundaries and get closure on relationships that have failed you time and again. You’ve always gone an extra mile to compensate for the people around you, but you’ve got to put a full stop to it, Virgo. Family matters will also take up your time and space, so sit down with your partner and discuss how to avoid any conflicts. This is also a good time to put any issues or grudges to rest and let go of whatever guilt or shame you’ve been dealing with.

7. Libra (September 23–October 22)

A retrograde is a reflective period and requires you to sift through what’s not working or what can be improved. This is not a stop sign; it is a pause to help you realign and move forward with a clear, better perspective of life. Your current routine needs some fine-tuning because you may have redundant things on your list that you can do without. So, instead of taking the elaborate route, filter down your schedule, work, and personal calendar. Focus on simplifying your wellbeing routine as well and don’t try to push harder during the retrograde period.

8. Scorpio (October 23–November 21)

Retrogrades have a scary reputation, and to be fair, they’ve earned it through miscommunications, blunders, and wreaking havoc on romantic relationships. But the Mercury retrograde in February 2026 is here to scare you in the best manner possible. It is here to finally help you learn to be a little spontaneous, take unknown risks, and express what’s on your mind without filtering it ten times. The season calls for living out loud. So, stop worrying about everything that can go wrong, because honestly, there’s a lot. Spend your time pursuing your creative desires. Don’t be stuck in a rut; open yourself up to new experiences, ideas, and people.

9. Sagittarius (November 22–December 21)

Dear Sagittarius, the retrograde in Pisces wants you to run away from your work problems and take a vacation. Yep, the universe wants you to drop everything like it’s hot and plan a relaxing vacation with your family or close friends whom you haven’t met in forever. This is the time to revisit and strengthen your familial and personal bonds. And what better way to unwind and reunite than on a trip, yapping, ranting, and trauma bonding? Work might get super kaleshi. It is best to keep yourself out of the drama and not draw any attention.

10. Capricorn (December 22–January 19)

There is an inevitable delay on the cards, and that could easily frustrate you, Capricorn. This is the best time to channel your superpower, your patience, because unfortunately, there isn’t a better way out of it. It could feel like a challenging and overwhelming period, with one thing or another getting added to your already overflowing plate. But you can prioritise and choose what requires your utmost attention instead of dealing with everything at once and losing your cool. Slowing down and moving at a comfortable pace will reduce the chances of error and ultimately the chances of you smashing someone’s head.

11. Aquarius (January 20–February 18)

You might think you have cracked the best plan for yourself, but the universe will outdo it to give you something even better. The retrograde in Pisces season is bringing just that, so take this horoscope as a heads-up for the inconvenience that might be caused in the future. You might not see reason in why things are not going as you would like them to right now, but have faith. The universe is only slowing you down so you can see a clear picture and zoom in on the smallest of details. You may be missing something vital; pay attention.

12. Pisces (February 19–March 20)

With a retrograde happening in your sign, you might think you’ll be screwed, but it comes bearing a pleasant surprise, Pisces. This period is bringing you the luxury of time to slow down, make new plans, get creative, and find your passion and purpose. Maybe being a 9-5 corporate person isn’t your calling, and you are meant for something a little more artistic. It also calls for resolving any conflicts that have been stretched unnecessarily and need to get some closure. This cosmic intervention could change your life around, Pisces, and for good. So, dare to do what your heart desires and let the universe align it for you.

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