It may be early August, but we still have over two weeks left of Mercury retrograde summer 2018. I know, I know; it already feel like it's been an eternity since this dose of Mercury retrograde started on July 26, but if you focus, stayed prepared, and don't let Mercury retrograde get the best of you, you can get through it. Remember: We're all going to be affected in one way or another so, basically, we're all in this together. "Five planets are still retrograde this summer, including Mercury," astrologer and psychic, Cindy Mckean, tells Bustle. "If you feel lately like things have been hectic, chaotic, or just not going as planned, maybe the planets apparent backwards movement in the sky has a role." According to Mckean, Mercury is represented as the winged messenger of the gods, representing communication, as well as thoughts and how we interact with others — anyone from our friends to our romantic partners to the people we work with to our families. "Since Mercury is most known for communication (after all, Mercury is the winged messenger of the Gods), you can expect misunderstandings to occur in our social lives," says Mckean. "This retrograde occurs in the sign of Leo, a sign known for drama, forgiveness, love, overreactions, self-centeredness, and warmth, among other things. As social creatures, some relationship or other is expected to face some kind of bump during this retrograde." Here are the relationships in your life that will be affected by Mercury retrograde most, based on your sign. Aries (March 21 - April 19) Tina Gong for Bustle In general, Aries is a pretty intense and competitive sign. It's just how they roll. But during this Mercury retrograde, overlapping with with Mars' retrograde, Aries may feel a little too hot to handle if they don't get control of what's bothering them and express it. "[Y]ou will be feeling a lot of pent up energy," says Mckean. "This can make you easily irritable and lash out if you don't handle the pent up thoughts and emotions correctly. Anyone can be a target, from a slow cashier to another harried Aries. The key for you during this time is to find an outlet for that pent up energy that you do religiously at the same time each day. Kickbox, meditate, go for a jog, do what is most comfortable for you where you can expel the feelings into something inert that would lead to a positive change in the long run." What relationships will be affected most in your life: Pretty much most of them, especially a fellow Aries. Taurus (April 20 - May 20) Tina Gong for Bustle Although those closest to you aren't likely to feel your wrath, Taurus, you have little patience for inconveniences. "Your relationships with your friends, colleagues, family, and partner will be fine," says Mckean. "It's those you don't have a relationship with that you'll feel your reaction to the retrograde affects the most. For you, it's not going to upset you if the computerized register at the checkout is down, but you might lose patience with whoever rings up your bill being clumsy with a calculator... You'll get through the day fine, but if you want to help things along add time in your calendar for a few delays here and there." What relationships will be affected most in your life: The people with whom you don't actually have a relationship. Gemini (May 21 - June 20) Tina Gong for Bustle "Woah, Gemini! We all really look forward to a full report on how it's like to be in a tornado and survive without a scratch!" says Mckean. "Being ruled by Mercury, you're good at reporting the facts real-time, but Leo (the sign it's currently moving through now) might make you have a tendency to exaggerate even more than the gingerly sprinkling Gemini tends to do here and there." But while some will find these exaggerations entertaining, others will be less than pleased — especially your loved ones. Mckean suggests taking all those embellishments down a few notches. At least for now. What relationships will be affected most in your life: Your relationships with your loved ones. Although this might sound vague, it's best to tread lightly with everyone whom you have a loving and deep connection. Cancer (June 21 - July 22) Tina Gong for Bustle "We started hugging you before the full lunar eclipse on July 27, and we're still hugging you," says Mckean. "We feel your pain. That is everyone around you, but especially your family. Not only was your lunar light extinguished, but Mars was right next to the moon laughing — or at least this is how it may have felt to you." Because Mars is also in retrograde and fairly aggressive, what you can normally handle with grace, Cancer, won't be so easy. In fact, the communication you'll encounter will likely be riddled in passive-aggressive behavior, and that's never a good feeling — no matter what receiving end of it you happen to be on. While it will be your inter-office relationships that might deal you some blows, it's your family who will have to deal with you bitching and moaning about it — which you have every right to do considering the circumstances. Mckean suggests modifying your own behavior in order to get to the end of August when things will be looking up again. What relationships will be affected most in your life: Your relationships with your coworkers and your family. Leo (July 23 - August 22) Tina Gong for Bustle "Dear Leo, we love you," says Mckean. "This will be a time of drama, ups and downs, and a seeming roller coaster ride — in other words, more of the same order of the day for you, but just a little more amplified with its ups and downs. You'll be proud of yourself and have bragging rights when this Mercury retrograde in Leo is all over." However, according to Mckean, you're likely to forget the drama that came with Mercury retrograde. While most important people in your life will forgive you, the Scorpios in your life might not have it in them to do so. Keep in mind that not everything has to be dramatic. Although some drama can keep things spicy and feeling exciting, ultimately, too much drama can drive people away and they may not return — like those Scorpios in your life. What relationships will be affected most in your life: Your relationships with your coworkers, romantic partners, and any Scorpios with whom you're close. Virgo (August 23 - September 22) Tina Gong for Bustle "You will be the go-to person for those around you expressing their woes, especially at work and among your friends," says Mckean. "This is pretty cool since you'll be able to hear both sides of the story plus other perspectives. The one thing to pay attention to is your energy level because you might feel a little frazzled, drained, or otherwise anxious. Your sign is ruled by Mercury. Although this particular retrograde period won't affect you as much as it does Gemini (the other sign ruled by Mercury), the fact that your time will be stretched will affect you." Because you will be the one who everyone depends on, it just might take its toll. Mckean advices staying hydrated, sticking to healthy snacks to keep you feeling good, and trying to get at least eight hours of sleep. She also suggests that, since you'll be viewed by others as the emotionally strong one during this time, carrying tissues for others will be a very good idea. What relationship will be affected most in your life: Your relationship with yourself. Libra (September 23 - October 22) Tina Gong for Bustle "If Virgo doesn't try to recruit you to help with being a sympathetic shoulder for those at work, the key during this period for you is to stay balanced," says Mckean. "With Mars' retrograde overlapping with Mercury's the first 19 days of August, you're going to feel it indirectly. When you're balanced internally but the environment or people around you aren't, that's how you feel it indirectly."<doc-sep>Read what your sign's 2018 horoscope predictions have in store for you, or check out the Gemini personality profile. Let’s be honest, Gemini — with Mercury (the planet of communication) ruling your sign, you love to know what’s going on around you. For the past few weeks, your curiosities have been extra potent, and you may have inadvertently found yourself in the middle of some pretty salacious scandals. On Monday, August 6, romantic Venus shifts into like-minded air-sign Libra, inspiring you to dial up the drama even more. Over the next few weeks, you’re going to be glowing. Libra energy activates the area of your chart that triggers your most fun and flirty sensibilities, so get ready for plenty of good vibes. Your vibrations are magnetic, so don’t be surprised if love starts falling directly in your lap. But be careful: While it's true that you’re fueled by curiosity, if you’re not intellectually stimulated, your focus can shift to gossip and hearsay. If you’ve recently gotten too comfortable in the grapevine, the Saturday, August 11 solar eclipse in Leo may rock your world. Sure, you’re a social butterfly, but it’s important to flutter outside of your comfort zone. Eclipses are linked to our destiny, so when the sky is electrified by the mystical lunation mid-month, don’t be surprised if you're forced to do just that. After all, when you get too caught up in your immediate realities, it’s easy to lose sight of all the exciting adventures that exist outside your scope of vision. It’s all about the long-game, Gemini, so keep your eye on the prize. Don’t worry, you’ll still have plenty of time to schmooze. It may not be your birthday season, but there is plenty to celebrate this month. Mercury — your planetary ruler — concludes it retrograde cycle. Since the end of July, the planet has been spinning reverse, killing your vibe in some pretty obnoxious ways. Because you’re governed by Mercury, its retrograde motion impacts you more than most other signs. You’ve been plagued by frustrating miscommunication, technology meltdowns, and travel delays, but soon, you’ll experience smooth sailing. To sweeten the deal even more, Mars is also going direct on Monday, August 27. Mars is the planet of action, so in order for us to accomplish our goals, this assertive planet needs to be functioning properly. By the end of the month, with both Mars and Mercury back in business and you’ll be ready to conquer the world.<doc-sep>Mercury is retrograde. Again. From July 26 to August 19, the messenger planet is driving in reverse, downing wi-fi signals, stirring up petty misunderstandings and creating general mischief with all things travel and schedule related. And just to add an extra layer of intensity, this backspin takes place in grandiose Leo. Because this could make meltdowns even more epic, double down on all the standard precautions like backing up data, leaving early for the airport, and not sending the 3AM text. Here's how this Mercury madness could affect your zodiac sign. Consider yourself on notice! Aries . Lights! Camera! But, hold off on the action until August 19, Aries. With Mercury backspinning through your fifth house of fame, romance and public attention, you might not be as ready as you think for your close-up. Schedule a few extra rehearsals, dry-runs and band practices. It would be wiser to delay a launch or pitch meeting than to go in and fake it until you (don't) make it. In love, take things slowly. Cupid could fire a few misleading arrows or churn up an old lover's quarrel. "Reconciling" with an ex could take you back down that same old rabbit hole, and you could mistake a thirst trap for true love. Taurus . The future is female and so is your past, as Mercury retrograde reminds you. With the celestial socialite retreating through your woman-centric fourth house, reunions will be extra sentimental for the coming few weeks. And with family drama intensifying under this transit, these get-togethers will be a welcome distraction. If you're ready to bury the hatchet with a relative, however, extend the olive branch and let the peace talks begin. Go easy on the home renovations! Retrograde Mercury can skew your creative vision. (Maybe mixing mid-century with modern gothic isn't the best idea?) Save it to a Pinterest board until August 19. Gemini . Hold the Tweetstorm, Gemini, and take tea off the menu until August 19. This Mercury retrograde is a double-whammy for you, as your sharp-tongued cosmic ruler moonwalks through your communication zone. Anything you say, text (or sext) could come back to haunt you. Plus, if 2018 taught a Gemini anything, it's that you never know who's recording the conversation. To make the most of this cycle, use it for what it's good for: all "re" activities, like researching, refining and reconnecting with old friends. Maybe it's time to dust off that half-finished screenplay or sign up for a class to help you hone a digital skill. Your efforts could yield profits after Mercury corrects course on August 19. Cancer . Money management isn't necessarily a thrilling summer activity, but start combing over those statements and reconfiguring your budget. With Mercury backtracking through your second house of finances until August 19, you could discover an "accounting error" in your bills-to-brunches ratio and need to tighten up that belt. But don't let this temporary restriction derail your ambition. This retrograde is an ideal time to reconnect with people you worked with in the past. Scour LinkedIn to see who's been making their way up the ranks; then, schedule drinks to catch up and strategically talk shop. Necessity is the mother of invention, so drum up some creative financing ideas like bartering or pooling funds for a group investment. Leo . Shhhh! Your roar may need some restorative therapy over the coming few weeks as vocal Mercury spins retrograde in your sign. While you don't have to disappear on a silent retreat, you may crave more quiet time to reflect and digest all the new energy that's flooded in to your universe in 2018. Plus, Mercury's moonwalk through Leo could lead to more than the usual number of misunderstandings (and gaffes). To ensure that your important messages don't get lost in translation, edit, remix and get a second opinion before you unleash! Virgo . Swaddle yourself among supportive friends. With your galactic guardian retreating through your twelfth house of healing and transitions until August 19, you could find yourself nursing some old wounds. Don't resist the emotions, painful though some of them may be. Mercury's plunge into deeper waters can help you get to the heart of the matter and make it all better for good. Creativity will be super cathartic now. Sign up for that ceramics class, take guitar lessons or learn how to macramé. Music soothes the savage Virgo, but if you update your audio system, make sure it comes with a solid warranty, since the retrograde can make gadgets go glitchy. Libra . Slackers in the Scales Squad? Group dynamics could get complicated as Mercury retrograde muddies the waters of your communal eleventh house. From bridesmaids to bandmates, your go-to crew could start acting up! Or, Libra, are they acting out? Now's the time to have those nakedly candid conversations to make sure that you haven't made any wrong assumptions or naively overstepped bounds. (Oops!) If people haven't been pulling their weight, you need to hold them accountable. Lean in to your trademark diplomacy and peacekeeping skills to make sure these discussions don't go off the rails. Pro tip: Drum up creative solutions to suggest before you engage in dialogue. This retrograde could be particularly deleterious to your technology and gadgets. Keep the coffee mug away from your laptop and make sure all your data is locked down behind strong passwords, firewalls, and encryptions. Scorpio . Keep it profesh, Scorpio! With messenger Mercury backing up through your career zone, you don't want to stray from company policy or push the envelope too far between now and August 19. Clashes with colleagues could get heated fast, so do your part to de-escalate when you feel tempers start to flare. You may realize that your goals are out of sync with the people you work with and that something needs to be fine-tuned. Wait until after the retrograde before calling the recruiters and circulating your resume, since the friction may clear up by the end of summer. Since retrogrades revive the past, you might reach out to clients and bosses from back in the day. A successful sequel could be in the stars for the two of you, or perhaps they can point you to a profitable opportunity. Sagittarius . No, Sagittarius, you shouldn't pour another round of truth serum. On the average day, you're already prone to "foot in mouth disease," but with retrograde Mercury moonwalking through your candid ninth house, you could do major damage with those unfiltered remarks. Between now and August 19, keep unprocessed thoughts on mute (or process them with your therapist first) and be more observant than outspoken. You could have a total shift of perspective-or just get more confirmation that your instincts were spot-on to begin with. This retrograde could scramble signals with summer travel plans. Forget spontaneity: triple-confirm your reservations, bring an extra form of I.D. and leave earlier than usual for the airport. Going international? Cue up the translation app and try making requests in the native language. Capricorn . Stop: Don't send that sext! Sexual signals could scramble in deeply uncomfortable ways as Mercury retrogrades through your erotic eighth house. You can't take too many precautions between now and August 19, especially when it comes to sharing the intimate details of your life. Have you been holding a torch? This retrograde could bring a round two with an old flame, or give you a second chance to woo a "missed connection." There may be friction with romantic and business partners, forcing you to discuss touchy topics. Awkward for sure, but at the end of the day, you'll feel better getting everything out in the open-and spelled out clearly, especially when it comes to the time and money you share. Aquarius . Forget 50/50. If you want important relationships to sail smoothly during this year's Mercury retrograde, you're going to have to bring 100 percent of your best self to the table. Trouble is, the messenger planet is getting wonky in your seventh house of relationships until August 19. This could shorten your fuse with everyone from your S.O. to a business partner to one of your best friends.<doc-sep>
Many of us can be scared of the effects of Mercury retrograde, which started July 26 and goes until August 19. But why should we spend those weeks living in fear all of your tech is going to fry or your close relationships are just going to fail overnight? There are certain things you can do during this summer 2018's Mercury retrograde to make life a little easier. After all, we're all only human, and reality is ours to win. Mercury retrograde can also be an amazing opportunity to heal. It could be seen as this: there's more pressure on us to go within and be more intentional about what does and doesn't serve us, so while there's more of a likelihood for things to go wrong, we also have more of a chance of bettering them. It's all just energy waiting to be used, and inaction may often be what does us in during the same energetic periods ruled by communication. This retrograde is the second one of the year, meaning you can look at the period of events during the first to try and see what went wrong. Then try something different this time to get a different result. Just because you always catch a cold more during certain times of the year doesn't mean everyone, or even you, is going to always be sick for set times. You may be more vulnerable to the elements sometimes when it's flu season, but if you've learned to cough into your hand and take your medicine and bundle up, you'll have yourself some strong immunity. By that token, there are tools for you to make sure you're bundling up with to survive Mercury retrograde. Read on to see more: 1 Journal. Like, a lot. Giphy If you can go within to see what's really bothering you, make sure to do that. Journaling can be the biggest act of self care in this regard, and it is a way to see what the deepest of our thoughts and feelings can be. If we can communicate oh-so-intimately with our deepest selves, then it will help us with communicating oh so intimately with other humans, which Mercury retrograde is famous for making difficult. 2 Spend time in nature. Giphy Nothing can break the bond you and Mother Earth have, not even an energetically disturbing planet. Try sitting in a nearby forest or by the beach and close your eyes. Think about everything amazing in your life right now, or everything amazing that you accomplished recently that you can take credit for. The chirping of birds, the blowing of the wind, the soft texture of the grass beneath you — that all is sending you a message that you are loved. Which is a message that can be harder to receive on your own during Mercury retrograde. That's why you can hear it yourself with the help of your nature friends! 3 Declutter your room. Giphy The Marie Kondo stans out there would approve of anyone trying to make a positive change like this — try ~communicating~ with your material possessions and figure out which ones deserve new homes and more appreciation. Hey, this is an area where you can feel more abundant during a retrograde that's for a cleansing too — clearing out old things makes room for the new, just as it may go with relationships this season. 4 Make some resolutions. Giphy What do you really care about? A Mercury in retrograde can bring out honesty, so take advantage of that and ask yourself some more tough questions about where you're headed. What are your goals for the next four seasons? How are you going to achieve them? If anyone's going to be honest with you during this season, it's you to you. There will be no sugar coating here... 5 Assess your true passions. Giphy Your true passions are just dying to be uncovered. Look at everything you're involved in now, and ask whether it is out of obligation or because it truly brings you joy. If it's not a joyful hobby or activity, you should consider disposing of it — communicate with yourself with authenticity! 6 Make concentrated efforts to make new friends. Giphy Communication with people you have less fear about losing (close connections can be the scariest to navigate right now) may renew your soul in ways you didn't know. If you've been meaning to get lunch with a new colleague, do it.