Mercury retrograde, planetary retrogrades, and survival guides
9 articles
Jupiter retrograde occurs for about four months each year, turning the planet of expansion and luck inward. During this period, external growth slows while internal wisdom deepens. Jupiter retrograde is a time for philosophical reflection, reviewing beliefs, and finding abundance within.
Saturn retrograde occurs for about four and a half months yearly, turning the planet of discipline and karma inward. It is a time for reassessing responsibilities, confronting avoidance patterns, and restructuring life foundations. Saturn retrograde reveals where your structures are weak.
Neptune retrograde lasts about five months each year, lifting the veils of illusion and idealism. Dreams become clearer, deception is revealed, and spiritual bypassing is exposed. Neptune retrograde brings uncomfortable but necessary clarity to areas where you have been deceiving yourself.
Uranus retrograde lasts about five months each year, turning the planet of revolution and authenticity inward. External rebellion quiets while internal liberation accelerates. Uranus retrograde is a time for discovering what true freedom means to you beyond surface-level nonconformity.
Planetary retrogrades are not curses — they are cosmic invitations to review, revise, and realign. This guide covers all major retrogrades (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and outer planets), what to expect from each, and practical strategies for turning retrograde energy into growth.
Venus retrograde occurs every 18 months for about 40 days, affecting love, relationships, and money. This is a time to review relationships, not start new ones. Exes may reappear. Avoid major purchases, cosmetic procedures, and new romances. Reflect on what you truly value.
Mars retrograde occurs every two years for about 2.5 months, affecting energy, motivation, and anger. Physical energy decreases. Frustrations increase. Direct action often backfires. This is a time to strategize rather than attack, review goals rather than pursue them aggressively.
Planets retrograde at birth operate differently than direct planets. Their energy is internalized, delayed, or unconventional. Having natal retrogrades is common and indicates areas where you process differently than most, often with deeper insight.
Mercury Retrograde 2025 occurs three times: March 14-April 7, July 18-August 11, and November 9-29. During these periods, avoid signing contracts, starting new projects, or making major purchases. Focus on reviewing, revising, and reconnecting with the past instead.