EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT RETROGRADES - PART 3
The word retrograde describes transits that appear to be moving backwards, all except the Sun and Moon. This is really a matter of perspective . In fact , we’re either moving faster/slower here on Earth, than the planet that is retrograde. We have to look “over our shoulder” to see the planet, therefore it’s referred to as retrograde.
How the planet affects daily life depends on the planet in question. However, one thing that is rarely discussed in Astrology interpolations, is the “shadow affect”.
For instance MERCURY retrogrades for approximately three weeks, but in fact the closer we get to the cycle, the more the retrograde energies begin to activate. The same applies when the planet goes into direct motion and the retrograde “appears” to be over. Not so!. The energies of the retrograde continue for ANOTHER three weeks, from the time it begins to move forward. That is why life seems to be unchanging after the retrograde cycles has supposedly finished.
This rule applies to every single planet that goes into a retrograde cycle, which leaves one to wonder about the duration of other retrograde planets . Unfortunately, these planets go through the same, if not more lengthy transits as Mercury.
Pluto retrogrades for approximately 5 months, which means prior to the actual start date of the retrograde, the energy of Pluto has already begun, This includes all the attributes of Pluto, all in focus before and after the retrograde is over. Obsessions, jealousy, undermining, secret enemies, regeneration, transformation, the past, are some of the words used to describe the affects of Pluto.
It should be taken into consideration that the actual retrograde cycle is a time when the not so positive aspects of a sign are at their strongest. Once the planet begins to move forward more of the positive aspects begin to emerge. Because planets such as Pluto are retrograde for such a longtime, they overlap with other retrograde cycles, which causes even more confusion and difficulty. Not only on a personal level but a mass level too. Retrogrades affect everyone.
The best course of action during these retrogrades is to become more introspective, alert and aware of what is going internally/externally.
With each retrograde certain areas of life will slow down and/or will need great discernment.
VENUS: Money, material possessions, self-worth, personal resources, contractual agreements, open enemies, personal long-term love, all forms of partnership.
MARS: Action, new beginnings, outside personal perceptions/impressions, how a persona presents Self to the world, Anything initiated e.g war, lawsuit or action of any kind, will be lost by the initiator. New businesses will fail.
JUPITER: Expansion growth, far-away places, other cultures, long distance travel, beliefs, higher consciousness/learning, law, the establishment. literary and publishing. All these issues will be problematic, except for learning, studies of a higher nature that are for internal development/expansion of consciousness/awareness.
SATURN: Structure, career, goals, ambitions, authority, power and responsibility. All of the above will have to be looked at closely for hidden flaws/difficulties or weaknesses. A lot of delays and obstacles to deal with. Karma, ruled by Saturn will come to the forefront.
URANUS: Independence freedom, the unexpected., rebellion, technology, genius potential, scientific experiments, innovation and uniqueness are highlights of this planet. Forethought and foresight is needed during the retrograde cycle to avoid impulsive decisions that lead to disastrous outcomes, doing more harm than good. A good time to develop/invent new ideas and talents.
NEPTUNE: Spirituality, fantasy, dreams, meditation, secret enemies, the hidden, large institutions, visual creativity, compassion, sensitivity, substance abuse, the immune system are associated with Neptune. This particular retrograde requires deep insight in order to gain spiritual understanding. There’s a danger of illusion, delusion and confusion, giving people qualities they don’t have and seeing everyone through “rose colored” glasses. Good for developing musical/visual creative projects.
PLUTO: Endings, destruction, decay, obsession, jealousy, rejuvenation, regeneration, transformation, revenge, vindictiveness, reincarnation, sex, the past. During this retrograde cycle, people who have gone past the point of no return will need to be let go. Intense circumstances that require change come to the forefront. A time to of being reborn. The concept of “death/rebirth”, the symbol of the Phoenix arising from its ashes. Inner strength to transform Self and life situations bring the best results during this time.
Venus retrograde for six months before and after the retrograde
Mars retrograde for eight week before and after the retrograde.
Jupiter retrograde for four months before and after the retrograde
Saturn retrograde for four and half months before and after the retrograde
Uranus retrograded for five months before and after the retrograde
Neptune retrograde for five months before and after the retrograde
Pluto retrograde for five and a half months before and after the retrograde.
Regardless of the retrograde cycles, they are positive in nature if understood and used wisely. If you take the time to stop, look, reflect and learn during these transits it’ll be easier to make positive decisions that have positive outcomes.
The Universe provides all the tools, opportunity and information needed to grow, succeed and deal with life’s daily challenges . It is each person’s responsibility, free will and choice, ,to have the “eyes to see” and “ ears to hear” the Sound of the Universe and its guidance.
