Mercury retrograde has ended — here’s what retro-shade season means for each sign: tarot reader

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Praise be.

When does Mercury go direct?

On April 7th, Mercury, our mischievous planet of the mind and mouth, ends its retrograde. Mercury will station direct at 7:07 AM ET at 26 degrees of Pisces.

But it ain’t time for rainbows and reckless abandon quite yet, folks.

How much longer is Mercury in retrograde?

After the planet stations direct, we’ll continue to feel the ill effects of the slow-down for up to two weeks, a charming/jarring little epilogue known as the shadow period.

Or, if you’re the whimsical type, Mercury “retroshade.”

The planet won’t clear its post-retrograde shadow until April 26th; until then we’re still under the influence of this cosmic melee.

Author and tarot reader Kerry Ward tells The Post, “Things can still feel unsettled and choppy for up to two weeks after Mercury has turned direct. Don’t rush straight back into booking big trips or moves, making deals, engaging in difficult dialogue or negotiations, or upgrading your tech. Allow a bit of grace for issues to resolve themselves.”

End of Mercury retrograde 2025

Blessedly, the post-retrograde shadow can bring clarity and finality to issues and circumstances we may have been battling during the retrograde cycle.

“This two-week post-retrograde period is a good time to reflect on your hardships and the response of your shadow side (no doubt activated by the frustrations you endured). It’s definitely from our strained moments, impatient episodes and setbacks that we see the repressed side of our personalities emerge. What did you (or your partner/family) notice about your behavior during this transit?” asks Ward.

For post-retrograde reflection and emotional recalibration, Ward recommends her Unleash Your Shadow Self self-help workbook.

In the spirit of self-inquiry, Ward has provided a tarot card pull for each sign to help navigate the shade and shifts of this shadow period.

Read on, right on.

To book a tarot reading with Kerry, see here.

For Post readers who would like to lean in and learn more with insights, forecasts and predictions, Ward is offering a free month of membership to her Tarot Club.

Fire signs – Aries, Leo, Sagittarius

KNIGHT OF COINS

Fire signs may find themselves in the wake of serious career turbulence, but as Ward explains, these bumps are ultimately for their benefit.

“Chaos creates new energy and openings; you just need to lean in. You are brave and bold, you love taking a risk and this is a moment you can leap to the next level! Create your own promotion; work hard, be creative, and make proactive proposals… and the sky is the limit.”

For further insights on professional trajectories and personal purpose, consider booking a Career Advice tarot reading.

Earth signs – Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn

THE LOVERS

Ward has some divining wisdom for earth signs who may have had their foundations rocked by this latest Mercury retrograde cycle.

“Maybe a difficult conversation has set your mind racing; maybe you’ve met a new person who has tempted you from your current situation; maybe you feel dissatisfied but can’t quite put your finger on it. Use these next two weeks to consider your options and get honest about your appetite for each. Come to an informed decision and act on it.”

For those seeking further clarity in the romantic realm, Ward offers a Relationship Analysis tarot reading.

Air signs – Gemini, Libra, Aquarius

NINE OF COINS

Ward encourages air babies to play and plan for the long game in the weeks to come.

“Put new seeds in the ground you can nurture and tend for the remainder of 2025. Focus on health, wealth, work and the domestic sphere. In this spring season, activate ambitions and activities that support a bright, positive, healthy, happy future for you. Be aware of the year’s remaining Mercury retrograde transits and earmark these periods for ‘quiet time’, avoiding significant travel, business, tech, or communication endeavors.”

Water signs – Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

THE HERMIT

Ward urges water signs to utilize the post-retrograde period for thoughtful contemplation and slow reintegration into the teeming river of life.

“You want to take stock of the processes, systems, schedules and organizations you use to live your life… are they working? Could they be better? You are in ‘research mode’- looking carefully at what can be improved, streamlined, upgraded and made simpler, better, faster. This work will help you make 2025 flow even more efficiently and beautifully!”

Astrologer Reda Wigle researches and irreverently reports on planetary configurations and their effect on each zodiac sign. Her horoscopes integrate history, poetry, pop culture and personal experience. To book a reading, visit her website.