Every Mercury retrograde cycle begins with a powerful pause — a moment when the planet appears to stop moving before reversing its direction. This phase is known as the Mercury station, and astrologers consider it one of the most sensitive and energetically charged moments of the entire retrograde period.
In February 2026, Mercury enters its first retrograde cycle of the year, and the station phase occurs on two key dates:
• February 25, 2026 — Mercury Station (Pre-Retrograde)
On this date, Mercury’s apparent speed slows down to nearly zero. Although the planet has not yet started moving backwards, energetically it behaves as if it is “frozen in the sky.”
This is the true stationary moment — the pause before the reversal.
• February 26, 2026 — Mercury Turns Retrograde
On this day, Mercury officially shifts into retrograde motion. The planet begins moving backward from our perspective on Earth, marking the start of the retrograde period.
Together, February 25 and 26 are considered the two stationary days of Mercury, when the planet’s influence becomes extremely concentrated, introspective, and often unpredictable.
Why the Station Phase Matters
During the station days, Mercury’s symbolism intensifies. Communication, thinking, technology, contracts, travel plans, and decision-making all enter a liminal zone where clarity can feel suspended. The energy becomes heavy, slow, and inward-turning, which can create delays, miscommunications, or emotional sensitivity.
Astrologically, this is a period when:
Mental processes slow down
Old thoughts or issues resurface
New projects may stall or require revisions
Intuition heightens
Past decisions come up for re-evaluation
Because Mercury rules the mind, the station days can feel like a moment where the universe asks you to stop, breathe, and look inward before moving ahead.
What You Should and Should Not Do During These Station Days
Supportive Actions
Review ongoing projects
Reorganize systems, files, or plans
Complete unfinished tasks
Edit, refine, and improve existing content
Revisit or revive past ideas
Reflect before acting
✘ Less Supportive Actions
Launching brand-new projects
Signing important contracts
Making irreversible decisions
Starting major travel or purchases
Expecting fast communication or immediate results
The station period creates energetic “friction.” Anything forced may backfire, stall, or need correction later.
February 25–26: A Transition Between Cycles
These two days are the turning point between forward momentum and backward review. Many people notice shifts in mood, clarity, motivation, or focus. Some feel foggy, while others become hyper-aware of inner processes.
Spiritually, the station acts almost like a gateway—slowing the external world so the inner world can speak more clearly.
If you use this time consciously, the retrograde that follows can become a powerful opportunity for reflection, healing, and refinement rather than frustration.