When Mercury goes retrograde, what happens and how does it effect us? Many astrology believers believe that retrograde motion starts a cycle of bad luck, but what exactly does this mean?
Mercury retrograde is an optical illusion in which the planet appears to be travelling backwards from our perspective on Earth. According to astrologers, technology and communication may be hampered during this seeming rearward motion, casting a damper on anyone’s summer attitude.
Check out everything you need to know about Mercury’s retrograde, including how to use its energy and what it means for you…
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In astrology, what does it indicate when a planet goes retrograde?
In case you didn’t know, when a planet is “retrograde,” it means Earth is going through its orbit and the planet looks to be travelling backward from our perspective. “All the planets suffer retrograde motion, but Mercury is the most commonand feared!” writes Kavanagh, “since he frequently causes what I like to call ‘Mercury mischief’ in his many three-to-four annual retrogrades.” “Saturn, Jupiter, Uranus, Pluto, and Chiron are all larger, outer celestial bodies that have a long annual retrograde motion, usually four to five months. Every alternate year, Venus and Mars, which orbit closer to Earth, retrograde.” She goes on to say that the sun and moon never go retrograde.
“Retrograde simply means the planet’s energy is partly obstructed externally, limiting the expression of those living areas that fall under that planet’s dominion.” Ambi Kavanagh, astrologer
So, if you have a retrograde planet (or several) in your natal chart, what does that mean? Consider it a karmic lesson that must be learned during your lifetime. “It’s not all doom and gloom, and it certainly doesn’t make for a ‘poor’ chart,” Kavanagh says. “Retrograde essentially means that the planet’s energy is partly obstructed externally, limiting the expression of those living regions that fall within its domain. The soul of the chart holder opted to incarnate in order to gain deeper internal lessons about the domains of life ruled by that particular planet.”
When a planet is retrograde, what happens?
Retrograde motion is a CHANGE IN THE APPEARANCE OF THE PLANET’S MOVEMENT THROUGH THE SKY. The planet does not physically begin to go backwards in its orbit, hence it is not REAL. It only appears to do so because of the planet’s and Earth’s relative positions and how they move around the Sun.
During the night, the planets normally migrate west to east through the stars. Prograde motion is the term for this type of movement. However, their velocity changes peridiocally, as they migrate east-to-west through the stars. This is referred to as retrograde motion. The retrograde motion lasts only a few moments before switching back to prograde. Within the context of a Sun-centered (heliocentric) solar system, this seemingly unusual behavior is simply explained. In a heliocentric model, retrograde motion happens when a faster traveling planet catches up to and passes a slower moving planet.
The graphic below depicts how the planet Mars would appear to move in both prograde and retrograde motion. It’s important to note that this is all due to the Earth’s orbit moving faster than Mars’. So the motion appears to go through the pro-retro-pro cycle when we catch up to that planet in its orbit and then advance beyond it.
This effect is something you can see for yourself. Begin by standing side by side with a companion. Allow a pal to take a slow step forward. You’re now walking at a faster pace. Keep an eye on your friend and consider how they are moving in relation to you. They go away at first, then appear to be traveling backward relative to you as you pass them, despite the fact that they are still walking forward.
What does the word “retrograde” signify in your horoscope?
Retrograde. It’s almost as if it’s the F word in astrology. When you bring it up, you’ll hear groans.
Even folks who aren’t familiar with astrology seem to be aware of Mercury retrograde’s transit nonsense. Murphy’s Law appears to be in full swing at this time of year. Almost everything that can go wrong does.
That’s what we’re going to talk about today. (We’ll talk about retrograde transits in a later post, but if you’re interested in learning more about the Mercury retrograde, I made a post for you.)
When a planet is retrograde in your natal chart, it signifies that the energy is more inwardly focused or restrained, rather than projecting outside. The native may be able to sense the expression even though it is veiled. I also feel that the energy can be difficult to manage at times, and that it might manifest itself in a sloppy or bumbling manner. It’s possible that it’ll be fully suppressed.
The energy of retrograde planets in the birth chart was not allowed to be displayed openly when the native was young, according to one school of thought. Consider the parent who told their child not to use their outdoor voice inside. Self’re suddenly restricted, rather than being the loud you that you want to be. It’s the same way.
In the year 2021, which planet is retrograde?
Mercury is one of the fastest-moving planets in the solar system, with an orbit that takes only 88 days to complete one round. The above-mentioned aspects of a native’s life are affected by Mercury Retrograde in 2021. With the retro Mercury, all of these realms of reality whirl.
What effect does retrograde have on relationships?
Mercury retrograde can wreak havoc on romantic relationships, family dynamics, and emotions in general, as communication goes crazy. You can say the wrong thing at the wrong time, send an uncomfortable text, or make two reservations at the same time. It’s more difficult to make decisions, so if you’re single, now isn’t the time to swipe left or right all the time.
If you’re on the fence about someone, whether it’s a present relationship or a hookup from last night, Mercury retrograde isn’t the best time to make a decision.
It’s risky to sign legal documents like prenups and divorce papers during this period since you’re more likely to miss anything vital (especially if you ignore the fine print).
Is it true that planets in retrograde have a lot of power?
What does it signify when the planets are moving backwards? In layman’s terms, when planets are retrograde, they are closest to Earth during that time. As a result, whenever a planet appears to be moving backwards, it transits close to Earth.
When seen from Earth, retrograde planets appear to stop and move backward for a period of time. Planets, in fact, never come to a halt or travel backward. That is unthinkable. They appear to be travelling backward because we, on Earth, pass past the planet, which causes retrograde planets to appear to be moving backward. When you try to overtake another vehicle on the highway, you’ll see that they appear to slow down and fall back, even if they’re moving forward. Planetary retrogression is a comparable effect. The only distinction is that planets follow a circular path, whereas cars follow a linear one in our case.
Chesta BalaMotional Strength
Is it true that planets in retrograde have a lot of power? Because they are closest to Earth during their retrograde period, retrograde planets are particularly powerful. As a result, the heavenly body has the greatest influence on us throughout that time period. Planets, as large heavenly bodies, have physical and metaphysical effects on us. Astrology is used to describe the metaphysical aspect.
In astrology, what does Retrograde mean? Planets have more power in astrology and are thus capable of producing more powerful effects. A retrograde planet possesses additional power points known as Chesta Bala, or points of being close to the earth, in terms of Shadbala, or planetary strength level. As a result, we have concrete evidence that the retrograde planet is far more potent as a result of the extra points it adds to the overall Shadbala score.
Chesta Bala is one of the six strengths that make up the overall Shadbala score on the planet, according to the Shadbala scale. Chesta here refers to the force that is required for the planet’s movement. In other words, this calculated strength determines how much physical effort the planet expends, which raises the potency of its astrological impacts.
As a result, whenever a planet goes retrograde, it requires more work or force to maintain traveling, resulting in Chesta Bala.
What is retrograde in the year 2022?
Mercury takes 88 days to orbit the sun, while the Earth takes 365 days. Mercury looks to be going backwards from our vantage point on Earth, in the same way that a speeding car appears to be moving backwards when it passes you on the highway. Mercury can go retrograde numerous times this year because it travels around the sun quicker than Earth.
Is it true that all planets go into retrograde?
Do you ever had those moments when everything goes wrong and you have no idea why? Stargazer, take a look up: A planet could be retrograde, which means it appears to be spinning backward from Earth’s perspective. What exactly is going on? The Earth, on the other hand, is completing its cycle around the Sun faster than planets beyond its orbit. It will occasionally outrun them, which will result in retrograde mayhem.
The planet that is being passed will appear to stop and go backward, much like a fast automobile or train passing a slower one. This is the apparent retrograde period. The velocity appears normal again as the Earth passes this planet in its orbit, and the planet is termed to be “direct” or “prograde” (to use the snappy scientific term). You’ve probably been in a car that felt like it was going backwards when it was passed, so you know how it feels!
There is a beginning and an end to each retrograde cycle “The uncomfortable transition of the retrograde planet from apparent backward to forward motion…and vice versa is known as the shadow period. As a result, you may sense the beginnings of a retrograde cycle for days, if not weeks, before it officially begins.
While retrograde planets are but a mirage, astrology devotees can vouch to their influence. During this cycle, the areas that a retrograde planet rules can become weak, tough, or troublesome.
Because all planets go retrograde on a regular basis, we must accept these natural occurrences as both a part of life and an opportunity to grow in character. According to the Buddha, “There was no dirt, and there was no lotus. Sometimes we need a struggle to build the inner power and self-awareness we require to progress as beings.
The planets, retrograde
Mercury, the planet of communication, transportation, travel, and technology, is the most well-known retrograde, which occurs three or four times a year for three weeks. Arguments and misunderstandings erupt, plans fall apart, cars break down, and computers fail unexpectedly during a Mercury retrograde cycle. Precautions are advised by astrologers: back up your digital files before this period begins, postpone any deals, and expect to repeat or explain yourself a few times more than usual.
Every 18 months, Venus, the planet of love, enters retrograde, revealing any weak links in a relationship or bringing back old lovers. Although the media are regularly studded with celebrity breakups each time Venus goes crazy, astrologers advise against proposals, weddings, and any big relationship changes during this 4-6 week period. Every two years, Mars goes retrograde for around two months, which can cause strife and warfare. Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto are all “outer planets” that travel retrograde for four to five months each year. So forget about hiding under a rock, because at least one planet, if not more, is retrograde most of the time.
So what’s good about retrogrades?
The prefix re- denotes a return. Retrogrades are a good time to polish up tasks you’ve already started or dig up ones you’ve put aside. Retrogrades draw our focus back to the past, and they can really be cosmic “grace periods” during which we can finish what we’ve started or solidify our intentions, ensuring that we don’t move forward on shaky ground. Old acquaintances, loves, and issues from the past may reappear, allowing you to reconnect or revise. This is a good opportunity to settle any disagreements, explore old ideas, conduct research, or renew a commitment. During these times, tighten up your habits and preparations, and you’ll be ready to rock when the retrograde period passes.
How to proactively use every retrograde:
Mercury is retrograde, which means you should reconnect with old acquaintances and contacts, back up your devices and data, revise and clarify your thoughts, and revisit an old writing project or course of study. Make sure your social media profiles are up to date.
Heal any conflicts in your relationship or impediments to love during Venus’ retrograde. Recognize when you’re in the incorrect match and change your strategy. Reunite with an ex…or get closure with an ex if the timing is right. Make peace with a woman who is important to you.
Mars is retrograde, which means you should learn to deal with pressure and disagreement more effectively. Let go of your resentment and lay down your swords. To avoid accidents, slow down and stop rushing. Have sex with an ex-boyfriend or ex-girlfriend (with caution!). Make an effort to improve your patience. Resuming an old sport or fitness routine is a good idea. You must have the courage to confront someone. Make peace with a man who is a part of your life.
When Jupiter is retrograde, it’s a good idea to take it easy on the risk-taking and consider your options before moving forward. Visit an old favorite location. Take over an abandoned business endeavor. Return to school and complete a degree or certification.
Saturn is retrograde, which means you should tighten up your plans and reconsider your goals and job path. Delay quick gratification and practice self-discipline. Work through conflicts with your father (thank goodness Saturn goes retrograde once a year, eh?).
Uranus is retrograde, so keep an eye on your rebellious instincts and make sure you’re not doing it for the wrong reasons. Examine your political beliefs, keep up with current events and scientific breakthroughs, and reconnect with a humanitarian cause. Keep a safe distance from destructive and disruptive people that add to the chaos in your life (you don’t need any more than you already have!).
Resuming a creative, musical, or artistic undertaking when Neptune is retrograde is a good idea. Explore and investigate your spiritual beliefs by delving into your mind, doing healing work and therapy, and diving into your subconscious. Meditation can help you become more in touch with your intuition. Be wary of denial and codepence. Get rid of the energy vampires in your life.
Explore your “dark side” and delve into past anxieties, limiting beliefs, and unconscious patterns during Pluto’s retrograde. Detoxify your environment through Feng Shui, space cleaning, sage burning, and decluttering. Protect yourself from potentially dangerous persons and situations. Recognize when you’re being bullied or controlled, or when you’re overpowering someone else, and take action. Make sure you’re not putting your own unspoken burden onto others. Past-life regressions, engaging with a psychic medium, and hypnotherapy can all help you access mysterious or buried elements of yourself.
What is the significance of retrograde motion?
The majority of planets orbit in the same direction and spin in the same direction. It is called retrograde when a body orbits or spins in the opposite direction as the rest of the universe.
The solar system was created from a spinning disk of material. That disk gave birth to the Sun and planets, which all revolve in the same direction.
If a body is backward, it must have collided with another item; otherwise, the law of conservation of momentum would be broken.
Another oddity is that the other inner planets, particularly Mercury, appear to be in a retrograde orbit at times. In truth, no planet has ever had a retrograde orbit. When planets move across the sky in the opposite direction of normal, they appear to be retrograde. This is simply a visual result of the Earth’s and planet’s relative movements.
