Retrogrades are for Integration
Retrogrades. From the perspective of timing, astrology tells us when we’ll get more help from some planets, aspects or signatures, and when we’ll face growth edges or learn lessons. From that POV, retrogrades force us to grow or change or work through what needs to be reshaped.
Although it’s the trendiest, Mercury in Retrograde is (in general) not the most challenging. Leave that to Mars—and you’ve survived that for this year (and next. No more Mars retrogrades until 2027.)
The first rule of retrogrades is that they are a time of review, processing, and integration. The second is that they are not BAD. And the third, is that if you panic and see them as problematic, you'll miss an opportunity to grow because all you’ll see is the challenges and none of the reflection. Ready?
Are retrogrades real? Yes, but not in the way you're thinking. The planet isn't actually rotating backwards (other than Uranus, because that's what it does), it's an optical illusion that occurs when one planet passes Earth, and so that planet appears to be moving backward. For the inner planets, Mercury and Venus, they are passing Earth, but their retrogrades are tied to the sun, so they occur as transitions from evening star to morning star for us. We’ll get to Mercury in a minute, but here’s what happens when the other planets are in the rearview mirror.
Mars: the most disruptive retrograde period belongs to Mars. These take Mars far out of bounds, meaning it "rotates" between two signs (or within 1) for more than half the year (am exhausting 7 months it is). Most recently that was b/n Leo and Cancer. Mars is hot, aggressive, sharp. Mars Rx requires patience and action—preferably toward resolution, not escalation. Move energy to make use of a Mars retrograde. It's the minor malefic, so it's the second planet in our solar system here for the LESSONS. With Mars, let them pass you by and you'll just get burned.
Pluto, the planet of death, rebirth, and transformation takes its time orbiting the sun (decades), and takes its time with the transformations. The “planet” of the underworld highlights what's lurking under the shadows and in our subconscious. It’s here for The Introspection. What lessons has Pluto been bringing? RN it's in Aquarius, the sign of the collective and community and technology. It's transforming the house in your personal chart where the Water Bearer lives. Use this Rx to inform how Pluto is shifting your psyche (and/or your soul) and your relationship with power. Re-center your approach to that house for the next time 'round.
Venus retrograde is one of the most beautiful and forgiving retrogrades. Venus Rx requires us to examine our relationships, to ourselves, to each other, to others, and also to the material world and to what we value. We just had a long one of those, too. The planet of creativity, connection, and harmony spent around 40 days (mythic) retrograde between Pisces and Aries, plus her prograde time in those two signs. Fun fact: Venus rotates upside down.
Jupiter: The Greater Benefic’s retrograde cycle, is a gift. When Jupiter spins backward, it's giving us an opportunity to catch up with all the blessings it’s bestowing on us. Personal exploration, discovery, growth. Don't tune this one out or you'll miss it. Gather ye rosebuds while it’s retrograde.
Uranus is here for the breakthroughs. Because it’s the planet of awakenings and revolution, its retrograde cycle is here for reflection, changes in perspective, and assimilation related to what its prograde transit is highlighting for you. Uranus is special: it spins on its side. Because Uranus’ energy is discontinuous, its flashes of genius may occur unexpectedly or in fits and spurts. Be prepared. Be open. Downloads lead to liberation.
Mercury’s in charge of the flow of information. Before Mercury retrograde (misunderstandings, delays, breakdowns, confusion, deception, failed comms): Complete unfinished projects. Back up devices and drives. Plan for delays. Arrive early. Make Plans B, C and D. Carry a spare tire or bike pump. Use the checklist. Most importantly: Triple edit. Read the fine print. Refer to refund and exchange policies. Avoid major commitments or investments when possible. Use these hiccups to streamline and refine your processes for your day-to-day life and the year through.