Why Retrograde Is Not The End Of The World
Retrogrades are astrological phenomena. They occur when a planet appears to be moving backwards, often wreaking havoc on our lives. Or so we are told. Truth is, retrogrades are not bad. I’m going to say it again: Retrogrades are not bad.Mercury Retrograde is the most commonly referred to retrograde, because it happens 3 times a year, because it’s a fast moving planet and because it rules communication. But every planet experiences a retrograde period. Some occur once a year, others every 2 or so. But at any given time, at least one planet is likely to be retracing its steps, if not more.Is this not like life? Have you ever jumped into something full steam ahead and not experienced a kickback down the road? Life is not a straight line. Sometimes we have to go backwards to go forwards. And here’s the thing about retrogrades: They’re an illusion. Nothing is actually moving backwards. It just appears that way.Sound like a metaphor?Our brains are very tricky. They like to think they’re running the show, but they’re not. They’re just organs. Really clever organs, but organs nonetheless.The Universe is a whole lot smarter than we are. It’s also a lot wiser. So sometimes it needs to deliver messages our minds cannot quite wrap themselves around. Like through synchronicity and dreams.Retrogrades are magical for these unconventional reveals, and for revisiting our past experiences. Especially Mercury retrogrades, which, as written above, occur the most frequently. .In January, we had the first.
- On April 28th, Mercury will retrograde in Taurus until May 22nd.
- On August 30th, Mercury turns retrograde in Virgo, stationing direct on September 22nd.
- On December 19th, Mercury goes retrograde in Capricorn until January 8th when it stations direct.
These all happen to be in Earth signs, which denotes a focus on the material world. We may rethink our relationship to our possessions, our health and our status. The key lies in the revisiting.This Spring also sees Mars (April 17th - June 29th), Saturn (until August 13th), Neptune (June 13th - November 19th) and Pluto (April 18th - September 26th) retrograding as well. These influences are deeper, their impact greater, unfolding over a period of time. They may be subtler, less likely to cause havoc in our lives. Bottom line, there is no need to panic. Retrogrades are not doom and gloom. They’re portals in time. They offer us redos. Who doesn’t need one of those?Artwork by Michelle Favin of Whys LA for Poppy & Seed. Connect with her @whyslosangeles.
