What Retrograde Actually Means: What You Need to Know About Retrogrades

Did you know that Mercury isn’t the only planet that goes retrograde? More importantly, do you know what retrograde actually means? The amount of attention mercury retrograde gets three to four times each year, it’s a common misconception that this phenomenon is limited to the planet closest to the sun, but this is far from true. In fact, all the planets in our solar system go retrograde at some point during the year, and some even retrograde for half the year! Mercury retrograde just happens to occur the most frequently, and because Mercury rules communication in astrology, it’s especially popular to discuss.

With that said, let’s chat about this and try to clear up all the misunderstandings about retrogrades and maybe find some appreciation in knowing exactly what they are, why we shouldn’t fear them and how to embrace and magnify their energy instead. Knowledge of this strange cosmic phenomenon can be very beneficial to further recognize that what happens during retrogrades can be beneficial to our spiritual growth, now more than ever.

First, let’s talk about the term “retrograde.” From an astronomical perspective, a retrograde occurs when a planet appears to be moving backwards in the sky. The keyword here is “appears,” as this isn’t actually happening. Planets don’t actually slow down, stop and change directions. They only appear to be doing so based on their speed and distance from the earth. Retrograde motion is actually an illusion. The planets are actually moving in the same direction they always have, it just appears as though they are moving backwards. Kind of like a when you are driving a car on the highway and pass another vehicle, the moment that you are passing that vehicle it looks like that car is moving backwards.

Retrogrades are an exceptional time to go over the past in order to move forward. So, during any retrograde take the time to reflect, re-evaluate, rethink, redo, relax, really all of the “re’s” during retrogrades.

It’s important to know, that, typically, retrogrades are not a good time to embark on a new adventure, a new business opportunity or to make a large purchase.

During this time, allow yourself to slow down, take a step back during any retrograde period and reflect on whatever is coming up so that you can first acknowledge it, then release, grow and learn from it.

Do you have questions about what retrograde means for you? Reach out to me!