Short answer
Mercury retrograde is when Mercury appears to move backwards as seen from Earth, three or four times a year for about three weeks. One is running now, from 24 Oct to 13 Nov 2026; the next are about 11 Feb – 5 Mar, 12 Jun – 6 Jul and 9–30 Oct 2027. Tradition reads it as a time for review, not disaster.
How ChiChakra reads this
Mercury (Budha) governs communication, contracts, trade, travel plans and learning. We note when it is retrograde and which house it is in from your Moon sign, because that shows where rechecking may matter most. The planet never really reverses; the backward look is an optical effect of how the two orbits line up.
How it may affect you
Expect the 're' words: review, revise, reconnect. Old contacts, unfinished projects and second thoughts often resurface.
Use simple safeguards: read contracts twice, back up files, confirm bookings and times, and keep receipts.
You don't need to freeze. If a signing, purchase or launch is needed, go ahead with extra care; if the date is entirely your choice, after 13 Nov 2026 is cleaner.
Good to know
The retrograde dates are the same for everyone; how much they touch you depends on your chart. A missed email is usually just a missed email.