Planetary Retrogrades

Retrograde by definition mean to move backwards. Planets don't actually change direction. What happens is an illusion that is linked to the relative orbital speed of the Earth as compared to the retrograde planet.

Mercury

Mercury rules communication, so be prepared for miscommunication during this period. For example, one friend may say let's go out for dinner on Tuesday and the other friend hears let's meet for lunch on Friday. Computers, televisions, and cars also tend to stop working properly during this period.

The retrograde motion has a major impact in the electronic industry because Mercury is exalted in Aquarius, ruled by Uranus, the ruler of electronics.  It also causes communication devices breakdown, transportation problems, and late shipments in industry which results in production slowdowns.

Moving forward with new projects or plans does not work, because we are not supposed, or not ready to be moving forward yet. We need to carefully review the past in preparation for next stage of projects or plans. During retrograde periods, many factors become visible or available ;which enable us to revise our plans and make wiser choices or decisions in the long run.

The retrograde period is a poor time for signing contracts, or starting new projects. The making of important decisions, such as starting a new job, filing a law-suit, buying a new car, undergoing elective surgery, or getting married, should be held off until Mercury is direct, and has passed the degree at which it went retrograde.

The retrograde period is useful for planning and strategy.  It can be utilized to take care of the unfinished tasks and business affairs that were started while Mercury was  in direct motion.  When Mercury turns direct in motion, communications, travel, decisions and business affairs proceed rapidly.  Those persons can plan with confidence in  new activities.

Mercury has a 20-24 day retrograde period.

Venus

When Venus goes retrograde it is a time to reflect on your values, and to review your relationships. Old friends / lovers may reenter your life. Avoid beginning a new love relationship. Relationship and money matters are delayed, confused or muddled.  Retrograde Venus can cause a slowing down or restriction in financial affairs or in the acquisition of desired possession.  This situation will persist until Venus goes direct in motion, then those persons will enter into  circumstances that will enable them to express themselves effectively.

Venus has about a 40-43 day retrograde period.

Mars

When Mars goes retrograde, any direct action becomes difficult. Actions initiated are often rooted in confused, or end up at cross-purposes to the original intentions.

Mars has about a 60-81 day retrograde period.

Jupiter

When Jupiter goes retrograde, it is a good time to review our vision, ideals, and belief systems. It is useful for people to rethink philosophical challenges and religious activities, re-evaluate previous beliefs, legal matters and management policies.

Jupiter has about a 120 day retrograde period.

Saturn

When Saturn goes retrograde, it is time to maintain the status quo in career and not break new ground in your life if possible.

Saturn has about a 130 day retrograde period.

Uranus

When Uranus goes retrograde, our inner freedom is the focus. Ask yourself: Am I in the flow of my calling in life? M ay not be a successful period for first time breaks from family, personal or business partnership.  You may reconsider previous manifestations of separation, individuality, and invention, which may have filed before.

Uranus has about a 155-200 day retrograde period.

Neptune

When Neptune goes retrograde, it is time to review your spiritual life, devoid of judgement, and criticism, and return to neglected artistic expression and talents.

Neptune has about 157-200 day retrograde period.

Pluto

When Pluto goes retrograde, it is a good time to reflect on how we are doing with change and transformation. Useful to cleanse away pollution that depletes our bodies and the environment, to learn the responsibilities of power, and how to teach others to use poweful tools without destroying themselves and others

Pluto has about a 160-210 day every year of a retrograde period.

[note: information for this article partially taken from: www.crystalpathway.com]