Retrograde

In astrology, retrograde describes a period when a planet appears to move backward through the zodiac from our perspective on Earth. This optical illusion occurs because of the relative speeds and orbits of Earth and the other planets. While retrograde is often associated with Mercury, all planets (except the Sun and Moon) go retrograde at some point.

How it works

A planet is retrograde when its motion through the zodiac slows, stops, and reverses direction for a period of weeks or months. In a natal chart, retrograde planets are marked with an 'R' symbol. They indicate areas where a person's energy turns inward or operates differently from the norm. For example, Mercury retrograde in a birth chart can suggest a reflective, internalized thinking style rather than quick outward expression.

In practice

When a planet goes retrograde by transit, its themes become more internal, revisiting past issues or requiring a slower pace. Mercury retrograde is famous for communication glitches and travel delays, but it's also a good time to review and revise. Outer planets like Jupiter or Saturn in retrograde often highlight collective or generational themes of reassessment. In a personal reading, look at which house the retrograde planet occupies and its aspects to understand where the backward motion has the most impact.

For a deeper look at your own retrograde planets, generate your natal chart and check the 'R' symbols.

Tags

planetary-motion, priority-p1, glossary, retrogrades, astrology-basics