So, you’re probably here because things feel... off. Maybe that big promotion you were chasing hit a snag, or that "life-changing" trip you planned suddenly feels like a giant chore. Before you go blaming Mercury, I’ve got some news. Mercury isn't actually the one messing with your vibe today, January 16, 2026.
Honestly, the planet you should be looking at is Jupiter.
While everyone panics the second they hear the word "retrograde," usually assuming their phone is about to shatter or their ex is going to text, Jupiter is a different beast entirely. As of right now, Jupiter is in retrograde in the sign of Cancer, and it has been since late last year. It’s not going to station direct until March 11, 2026.
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That’s a long time to feel like the cosmic "pause" button has been pressed on your growth.
What’s actually happening up there?
First off, let’s clear up the science because it’s actually pretty cool. No, Jupiter hasn’t literally stopped in its tracks and started backing up through the solar system. That would be terrifying. It’s an optical illusion called apparent retrograde motion.
Imagine you’re in a fast car on the highway (Earth) passing a slower truck (Jupiter). As you pull ahead, the truck looks like it’s sliding backward relative to the trees in the distance. That’s all this is. But in astrology, that "backward" look signifies a time when the energy of that planet turns inward.
Jupiter is the planet of expansion, luck, abundance, and the "Big Picture." When it’s moving forward, it’s like a cosmic green light. When it’s in retrograde, it’s more like a "Yield" sign. It’s asking you to look at where you’ve been before you sprint toward where you’re going.
Why Jupiter in Cancer feels so personal
Because Jupiter is currently hanging out in Cancer, the energy is very much focused on the home, family, and your internal security.
Cancer is a water sign. It’s emotional. It’s protective. It’s basically the "mom" of the zodiac. With Jupiter—the planet that wants to go BIG—retrograding here, you might find yourself obsessing over your living situation or questioning if you’re actually happy with your "found family."
You've probably noticed a few things lately:
- A sudden urge to renovate or move, but feeling paralyzed by the details.
- Old family dramas resurfacing, not to annoy you, but to finally be resolved.
- A "spiritual hunger" that your current routine just isn't satisfying.
Astrologer Chani Nicholas often points out that Jupiter retrogrades are about internal growth. It’s less about the "stuff" you’re accumulating and more about the wisdom you’re gaining. If you feel like your luck has "run out," it hasn't. It's just being redirected toward your soul instead of your bank account for a few weeks.
The other players: Uranus is also acting up
It’s not just a one-planet show. Uranus is also in retrograde right now in Taurus (though it’s about to turn direct in early February).
Uranus is the planet of rebellion and "expect the unexpected." In Taurus, it’s been shaking up our collective ideas about money and the environment. Since it's retrograde, that "shake-up" is happening internally. You might be feeling a weird, restless urge to quit your job or change your entire look, but something—probably that Jupiter in Cancer influence—is telling you to wait and reflect first.
Basically, the sky is telling us all to chill.
What about Mercury?
I know, I know. You were sure it was Mercury.
Good news: Mercury is currently direct. It’s moving through Capricorn and will head into Aquarius on the 20th. Communication should be relatively smooth for the next week or so. However, don't get too comfortable. The first Mercury retrograde of 2026 is lurking right around the corner—it starts on February 26 in the sign of Pisces.
So, use this current window to sign those contracts and have those tough conversations before the "brain fog" sets in next month.
How to handle this Jupiter cycle without losing your mind
Most people think a retrograde is a "bad" time. It’s not. It’s a review time. If you try to force a massive expansion right now—like launching a huge company without doing the legwork—Jupiter might make it feel like you’re wading through molasses.
Instead, try leaning into the "Re" words:
- Re-evaluate your goals. Are you chasing that promotion because you want it, or because you think you should want it?
- Reconnect with your roots. Call your parents. Go through old photos. Understand how your past is shaping your current ambition.
- Refine your habits. Jupiter in Cancer loves a good routine that feels nourishing.
The Saturn-Uranus sextile happening around January 20th will actually help bridge the gap between your old structures and the new changes you want to make. It’s a supportive "click" in the cosmos that says, "Hey, if you do the internal work now, the external rewards will be solid later."
Your "Right Now" Action Plan
Stop waiting for the "perfect" moment to feel successful. Jupiter retrograde teaches us that success is an inside job.
If you’re feeling stuck today, sit with it. Grab a notebook. Ask yourself: "What am I trying to grow, and is the foundation strong enough to hold it?"
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Actionable Next Steps:
- Audit your space: Since Jupiter is in Cancer, your home is your sanctuary. If your desk is a mess, your head probably is too. Clean it today.
- Check your February calendar: With Mercury retrograde coming on the 26th of next month, try to get your major travel bookings or tech upgrades done this week.
- Review your budget: Look at your spending from the last three months. Jupiter retrograde is a prime time to see where your "leaks" are before the planet of abundance goes direct in March.
Don't sweat the "stuck" feeling. You aren't falling behind; you're just regrouping. The universe isn't out to get you—it's just making sure you're ready for the big things coming this spring.