How to Make the Most of Planetary Retrogrades in Astrology

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Hint: forget fear and remember the “RE-factor” for best results!
 
The second Mercury retrograde in 2021 begins on Saturday, May 29 at 6:34 p.m. Eastern Time.
 
If you have any friends or family who are astrology aficionados you may have heard someone warn you about Mercury retrogrades and how horrible they can be. During instances like these I hope you’ll remember Franklin D. Roosevelt and repeat his quote how there’s “nothing to fear but fear itself”.
 
In fact, all the planets except the luminaries Sun and Moon and even asteroids reach a retrograde transit at some point. From our geocentric view on Earth, these celestial bodies appear to be moving backwards, however looks can be deceiving as they really aren’t traveling backwards at all. They're simply stuck waiting for new information after a temporary internal review.
 
What’s most notable about the deeper meaning of retrogrades is that as these cosmic figures appear to be stationing and not journeying ahead, the symbolism is that this is now the best time to slow down in your life and review what’s been going on for you personally.
 
One thing true for retrogrades is that astrologers say it’s generally not considered a good time for initiating something brand spanking new. The consensus is you’re better off connecting with people you already know or following up on something already started.

You’ll want to consider the following planets and their relevance for what areas of life are likely to be affected or in need of special attention. Below are the basics for the 5 classical planets used in ancient astrology besides the Sun and Moon:
 
Mercury – communication, transportation
Venus – beauty, money, art, relationships
Mars – exercise, surgery, moving
Jupiter – travel, spirituality, wealth
Saturn – structures, government, business
 
If you haven’t yet heard of the “RE-factor” I urge you to consider applying it during this current and every Mercury Retrograde period. The time frame for Mercury retro typically lasts for about 3 weeks. Saturn recently turned retrograde on May 23rd launching what astrologers fondly call “retrograde season”.
 
Mercury retrogrades are short compared to the other planets. Jupiter will be the next planet to turn retrograde on June 20. (Dates are all based on Eastern Time.) This year in 2021 there is no Mars retrograde however Venus will retrograde at the end of the year starting December 19.
 
Just about any word that starts with “re” is what the astrology beckons us to do rather than begin something completely fresh and untried.
 
Examples include: review, revise, restructure, refresh, reflect, renew, redo, redesign, renegotiate, recalculate, revolt, resolve, redefine, retest, rejoice, reuse, reestablish, reapply, reboot, reiterate, reenter, reformulate, regroup, rehash, reclaim, rekindle, rely, remorse, renounce, reorganize, repudiate, request, rerun, restock, return, reject, remember, release, rebrand, reverse, rework, reexamine, replant, recapitulate, rebound, restrict, retort, retract, reimagine, reapply, react, reenact, reinterpret, rejuvenate, reinvent, regenerate, resurrect, etc.
 
It’s always good to prepare before any planet goes retrograde so that you’re in a better position to fare the pause. For example, if you need mechanical work done on your car, try to get it done prior to Mercury retrograde.
 
During a Venus retrograde, you may not be thinking clearly about beautification, so many astrologers advise waiting on making big changes to your appearance such as getting tattoos or new unfamiliar haircuts. The same is true for elective surgeries, including during Mars retrograde. (Mars also symbolizes cutting.)
 
Of course, if it’s a matter of health that cannot wait, sometimes you just have to put your best foot forward in spite of a retrograde planet. In that case it’s really good to know your personal natal chart. There are always many influences from the sky going on simultaneously.
 
Often if you do start things, especially during Mercury retrograde, you’ll find that down the road it doesn’t work out as originally intended. For example, if you start a job during Mercury retrograde, within a year or so something about that job can change. A promotion or different duties are distinct possibilities.
 
Try working with the retrograde planets as suggested above and let me know if and how it helps in your daily life. Above all, I hope you welcome the chance to learn new life lessons from a higher perspective.
 
© 2021 Trudy Carol. All Rights Reserved.