Understanding Retrograde Planets: A Guide to Navigating This Cosmic Movement

Hey everyone! Today, I'd like to discuss with you a topic that sparks a great deal of curiosity: retrograde planets. Recently, Jupiter went retrograde, and that motivated me to delve a bit deeper into this subject, especially since many people only associate retrograde motion with Mercury. You've probably heard that during Mercury retrograde, we shouldn't buy anything, sign contracts, or make big decisions. But actually, all planets go retrograde (except the Sun and Moon, which are considered planets in Astrology), each with their effects and particularities.

What Does it Mean for a Planet to Be Retrograde?

Let's start by understanding what it means, after all, for a planet to be retrograde. Contrary to what it might seem, planets don't actually move backward. Retrograde motion is an apparent movement, an optical illusion caused by the difference in speed between Earth and other planets in the solar system. All of astrology is based on the observer's perspective here on Earth. So, depending on the relative position between Earth and the planet in question, it might appear to be moving backward.

Why Does Mercury Get So Much Attention?

Mercury is the planet most frequently associated with retrogrades, and this may be linked to two issues. Firstly, Mercury rules communication and media, so it makes sense that the spotlight has turned to it regarding its fame in the media. Additionally, its fame might also be associated with its frequency. Mercury goes retrograde every four months for a period of 19 to 24 days, which makes its effects more noticeable in our daily lives. In comparison, other planets go retrograde less frequently or for longer periods, but it's important to emphasize that this doesn't diminish the importance of these events.

How Does Retrograde Motion Impact Our Lives?

Often, retrogradation is seen as a period of chaos or difficulty, but it doesn't have to be that way. I like to think of this movement as an opportunity for reflection. Imagine you're leaving home for an important meeting, and when you get on the transport, you realize you've forgotten an essential document. You go back, get the document, and only then continue your journey. This is the spirit of retrogradation: taking a few steps back, reviewing what was left aside, and only then moving forward with more clarity and focus.

Each retrograde planet invites us to review different aspects of our lives. When Venus is retrograde, as it is currently, the energy turns to our relationships and personal values. It's a period to re-evaluate how we relate to others and how we express our affection. Venus retrograde occurs every one year and seven months and lasts about 45 days, enough time to promote a deep reflection on our emotional connections.

Why is Venus Retrograde Less Famous?

Although Venus retrograde has significant impacts, it doesn't receive as much attention as Mercury, probably because its retrogradation is less frequent. While Mercury retrogrades three times a year, Venus does so every one year and seven months. However, this doesn't diminish the importance of this period, which is crucial for re-evaluating matters of love, beauty, and values.

Final Thoughts

Just as we can't stop life every time Mercury goes retrograde, we also don't need to fear these periods. They are invitations from the cosmos for us to adjust, review, and realign our journey. So, next time you hear about a retrograde planet, embrace it as an opportunity for growth and self-improvement. In fact, in December 2024, it will be Mars' turn to go retrograde! But that will be a topic for another post...

If you enjoyed learning a bit more about retrograde planets, share your thoughts in the comments. I'd love to know how you perceive these movements in your life!

With love,

Kim Bins