Retrograde planets are a phenomenon that often causes curiosity. In astrology, a planet is considered retrograde when, from the earth, it appears to be moving backwards in the sky. This optical illusion occurs because of the relative motion of the Earth and the planet. Retrograde planets in a person's natal horoscope are thought to affect their personality and experiences in a unique way, imparting qualities and challenges that are not present when the planets are in right alignment.
Retrograde planets are often associated with review, revision and introspection. Each planet, when retrograde, affects in a different way and its influence depends on the planet and the area of life it rules. The rarest retrogrades are those of Venus, Mars and Mercury, so they are also important displays that are hard to miss in people's characteristics. Let's look below at what each planet's retrograde means as a transit and as an element of a personal natal chart.
Mercury in retrograde
Mercury is known as the planet of communication, thought and travel. When it is retrograde in the natal chart, the person may have difficulties in expressing their thoughts and understanding others. This position may bring difficulties in organizing and performing daily tasks.
During periods when Mercury is retrograde, it is recommended to avoid starting new projects or making important decisions. It is a good time to review and correct existing issues, tie up loose ends and deal with old problems. There may be delays and misunderstandings, but these periods also offer the opportunity for introspection and review.
Venus Retrograde
Venus is the planet of love, relationships and money. When it is retrograde in the natal horoscope, it can indicate that a person is constantly revising their values and relationships. These periods can bring past relationships to the forefront or cause doubts about current ones.
Venus retrograde periods are rare and special, deeply affecting our relationships and finances. It's a good time to rethink our relationships and values, but not to make big purchases or start new relationships.
Mars in retrograde
Mars rules action, energy and aggression. A retrograde Mars in the natal horoscope may indicate that the person has difficulty in expressing their energy directly and may feel frustration or inner conflict.
During Mars retrograde, it is recommended to avoid starting new projects that require a lot of energy and enthusiasm. This period is good to review our goals and revise our strategies. There may be delays and postponements, but it is an opportunity for internal empowerment and regrouping of forces.
Jupiter retrograde
Jupiter is the planet of expansion, luck and knowledge. When retrograde in the natal horoscope, it can indicate that the person is revising their beliefs and goals for growth.
During Jupiter retrograde periods, it is a good time for introspection and reassessment of our lives. There may be delays in matters relating to education, travel and legal affairs, but it is also an opportunity to deepen our knowledge and improve our ambitions.
Saturn in retrograde
Saturn represents discipline, structures and boundaries. When it is retrograde in the natal chart, it can indicate that the person is reviewing their responsibilities and personal structures.
During Saturn retrograde periods, it is a good time to review our commitments and rethink our strategies. This period can bring delays and postponements in professional and personal projects, but it also offers an opportunity for deep introspection and restructuring of our lives.
Uranus, Neptune and Pluto retrograde
These planets are considered generational planets and affect entire groups of people born during their retrograde periods. Uranus rules innovation and change, Neptune rules spirituality and illusion, and Pluto rules transformation and rebirth. When they are retrograde in the natal chart, they impart characteristics such as deep inner searching and a special connection to the concepts they represent.
Uranus retrograde
Uranus, the planet of innovation and change, when retrograde in the natal chart, encourages the inner search for personal freedom and authenticity. Individuals in this position tend to examine unconventional ideas and seek alternative ways of living. During periods when Uranus is retrograde, it is a good time to re-examine our views on independence and innovation, to internally analyze our needs for change, and to prepare for future revolutions in our lives.
Neptune in retrograde
Neptune, the planet of spirituality, dreams and illusions, when it is retrograde in the natal horoscope, directs its energy towards the inner search for truth and substance. People with Neptune retrograde tend to explore their spiritual beliefs more deeply and confront their illusions and delusions. During Neptune retrograde periods, it is favorable to focus on spiritual seeking, intuitive growth and detachment from addictions and misleading influences.
Pluto retrograde
Pluto, the planet of transformation and rebirth, when retrograde in the natal horoscope, encourages an inner exploration of our deeper psychological processes and inner strength. People with Pluto retrograde often face issues of power and control on a personal level, leading to profound inner transformations. During periods of Pluto retrograde, it is conducive to re-examine our deep desires and fears, work towards personal rebirth and free ourselves from past traumas and limitations.
The retrograde planets in the natal chart offer unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Instead of fearing retrograde periods, we can use them as opportunities for review, reconsideration and introspection. With understanding and attention, these periods can help us improve our lives and achieve a deeper understanding of ourselves and others.
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