A retrograde planet: what is it?

A planet is said to be retrograde when, viewed from Earth, it appears to slow down and move backward in its orbit around the Sun. Although this is an optical illusion, this phenomenon has significant meaning in astrology.

General Significance

When a planet is retrograde in transit, its influence is generally:

  • More internalized and introspective
  • Synonymous with slowing down and reflection
  • An invitation to review and reconsider certain aspects of our lives

Effects According to Planets

Mercury Retrograde

  • Frequency: 3-4 times a year, for about 3 weeks
  • Effects: Communication problems, misunderstandings, delays
  • Advice: Revise, reflect, double-check information

Venus Retrograde

  • Frequency: About every 18 months, for 6 weeks
  • Effects: Reevaluation of relationships and values, resurgence of old relationships
  • Advice: Rethink love and finances, avoid new commitments

Mars Retrograde

  • Frequency: About every 2 years, for 2 months
  • Effects: Decrease in energy and initiative, frustrations
  • Advice: Think before acting, reconsider personal goals

Jupiter Retrograde

  • Frequency: Every year, for about 4 months
  • Effects: Introspection on personal growth and opportunities
  • Advice: Reconsider life goals and beliefs

Saturn Retrograde

  • Frequency: Every year, for 4-5 months
  • Effects: Questioning of structures and responsibilities
  • Advice: Reevaluate obligations, correct past mistakes

Uranus Retrograde

  • Frequency: Every year, for about 5 months
  • Effects:
    • Questions changes and individual freedom
    • Promotes introspection and personal innovation
    • Encourages thinking outside the box
  • Advice:
    • Reconsider areas of your life needing renewal
    • Explore and exploit new talents
    • Consider bold changes in your life

Neptune Retrograde

  • Frequency: Every year, for about 6 months
  • Effects:
    • Associated with spirituality, dreams, and illusion
    • Can make reality more blurry
    • Invites exploration of the inner path and intuition
  • Advice:
    • Connect with your inner self and spirituality
    • Stay vigilant against potential illusions
    • Listen to your intuition while keeping your feet on the ground

Pluto Retrograde

  • Frequency: Every year, for about 6 months
  • Effects:
    • Concerns deep transformation and power issues
    • Promotes confrontation with deeply rooted problems
    • Encourages letting go and personal regeneration
  • Advice:
    • Confront and heal deep issues
    • Examine power dynamics in your life
    • Embrace processes of personal transformation

Conclusion

Retrograde periods are opportune moments for introspection and reevaluation. Rather than fearing them, it is advisable to see them as opportunities for personal growth and readjustment of our life trajectories.