forestpagan:What is Retrograde? Retrograde literally means “to go backwards”. In
forestpagan: What is Retrograde? Retrograde literally means “to go backwards”. In astronomy this refers to the optical illusion created when Earth reaches certain points in its orbit, making it appear as though other planets are moving backwards. Planetary motion as observed from the Earth tends to go from East to West across the sky, but due to orbital patterns, occasionally it will look like the planets are moving West to East. This is the same illusion you experience when you speed past a more slowly moving car. What does it mean in astrology? In astrology it is believed that the powers of each planet are either reversed or enhanced while in retrograde. In almost all cases, these energies are also more internalized and lead to greater personal change. Regardless of the effects, retrograde cycling can cause a great deal of turmoil in most people’s lives. (Even the seemingly positive experiences seen in Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto retrograde can have negative consequences on a person’s interpersonal relationships as close friends and family members find difficulty adjusting to growth and as people quit their jobs as they seek self-actualization.) All retrograde cycles must be taken slowly and with much thought. Consider these times for learning and growth. Meditate on your past actions, your future goals, and reflect on the person you are compared to the person you want to be. Retrograde cycles are always great times to let go of your grudges and do some spiritual house keeping. Each cycle will teach you something: Whether it’s patience to get you through Mercury or self-control to get your through Uranus, you’ll find there is always some virtue to practice and new ways to connect to the world around you. -- source link