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Learning centre
| Astrology learning centre
| Retrograde planets
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A planet is described as 'retrograde' when
it appears to be moving backwards through the zodiac. |
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What is a retrograde planet?
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Every planet in
our solar system appears to become retrograde (except the Sun and Moon).
They are never
actually retrograde or stationary, however appear that way, due to an optical
illusion. This illusion occurs as a result of a planets motion in relation to
earth and other planets in our solar system.
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What happens during a retrograde period?
While it is traditionally believed that difficulties occur during
retrograde, it is also a time for reflection and to understand the meaning
of any obstacles that occur.
How we experience a retrograde period is
different for each of us, however by knowing when the planets start to go
retrograde, you can be a little more prepared.
Generally, a retrograde planet effects a
period of events according to their area of influence. For example, Mercury
retrograde in Virgo creates quite different events from those generated when
it retrogrades into Leo.
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What are the
retrograde cycles?
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A retrograde
period starts when a planet begins to slow to a halt before travelling 'backwards'
through the zodiac. It ends when the planet returns to the point where it first
paused.
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The first 'stationary' period occur near the beginning of the cycle - when
the planet first halts as it prepares to move backwards.
The second 'stationary' period occurs midway
through the cycle - when the retrograde planet slows to a stop before moving
forward again.
The final 'direct station' occurs when the
planet halts - before it moves forward again.
It is during these times that the planet's
energy is most powerful and more likely to generate events of universal
importance. It's also these times that can also be used for maximum benefit.
The effects of each retrograde varies, depending on which star sign it
happens to be in.
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Mercury retrograde
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Mercury generally
turns retrograde three times a year.
In 2006, there are three retrograde Mercury cycles, coincidentally, they
are all in water signs.
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When is Mercury in retrograde? |
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Mercury Retrograde 2006 |
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Retro Station |
Direct Station |
Return |
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2 Mar 2006
Pisces |
25 Mar 2006
Pisces |
14 Apr 2006
Pisces |
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4 Jul 2006
Leo |
29 Jul 2006
Cancer |
12 Aug 2006
Leo |
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28 Oct 2006
Scorpio |
18 Nov 2006
Scorpio |
04 Dec 2006
Scorpio |
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What does Mercury retrograde affect?
As the planet of communication and the winged messenger of the gods,
Mercury rules our mind and how we perceive and interpret information and how
we relay that information to others.
It also governs speaking, negotiating,
decision-making, buying and selling, listening, formal contracts, documents,
transport, the web, mail, shipping, communications, travel, transport and
appointments.
During a mercury retrograde period, all of these
areas of life can be affected. On the positive side this is a great time to reorganise and reflect.
Mercury retrograde in natal charts
Not everyone feels the effects of Mercury
retrograde. If you are born with Mercury retrograde in your natal chart, for
example, may not notice its effects.
When Mercury is retrograde in the natal chart, the thinking processes are generally more acute
with a quirky sense of humour.
To find out if you have Mercury retrograde in
your natal chart
ORDER YOUR HOROSCOPE from this website!
What happens during Mercury retrograde?
Mercury retrograde can contribute to misunderstandings, disrupted or delayed communications, trade
problems and glitches with phones, computers and transport.
It is therefore not wise to make important decisions while Mercury is
retrograde, since it is very likely that these decisions will be clouded by
misinformation, poor communication and careless thinking. Mercury is all
about mental clarity and the power of the mind, so when Mercury is
retrograde, these intellectual characteristics tend to be less acute than
usual, as the critical faculties are dimmed.
On the positive side...
Mercury retrograde, like any cosmic aspect, affects people differently,
depending on where it hits their personal charts. Some people actually
prosper under a retro Mercury, especially if Mercury is retrograde but
otherwise well-aspected in their birth charts.
It is also a time when matters begun under a
previous retro period will come to fruition, or completion as the case may
be. Firm decisions that have been previously made when Mercury is travelling
normally through the zodiac may be implemented or finalised while Mercury is
retrograde without too much worry, for experience shows that this can be
done without undue problems arising.
Mercury Retrograde in Pisces
When Mercury is retrograde in Pisces thinking
becomes more introspective. There is little choice but to reconsider our
personal views and opinions about life. There is, however, an opportunity to
gain insight into our own ego. Mercury retro in Pisces, the sign of his
fall, creates mental and emotional confusion, with strange dreams and
sometimes psychic experiences.
Mercury retrograde in Cancer
With Mercury retrograde for the most part in the
sign of Cancer, this is an excellent period for getting in touch with our
instincts. Emotional communication is not as valued as more rational
approaches in our society, and now is the time to explore our more intimate,
sympathetic, and emotional nature and how these affect our decision making
processes.
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Venus
retrograde
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Venus turns
retrograde only once every eighteen months.
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When is Venus in retrograde? |
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Venus Retrograde 2004 |
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Retro Station |
Direct Station |
Return |
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17 May 2004
Gemini |
29
Jun 2004
Gemini |
2
Aug 2004
Gemini |
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24
Dec 2005
Aquarius |
03
Feb 2006
Capricorn |
7
Mar 2006
Aquarius |
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27
Jul 2007
Virgo |
08
Sep 2007
Leo |
11
Oct 2007
Virgo |
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What does Venus retrograde affect?
As the goddess of love, Venus governs emotions,
aesthetics, fashion, desire, money, social attitudes, female relationships, social interactions, our values, romance, marriage, partnerships,
our capacity for humour and the pursuit of pleasure.
During Venus retrograde the things that Venus influences will be less
apparent or of less concern to the world.
This is not the time to purchase clothes or jewellery, change one's
make-up or hairstyle. People may dress with less flair in more muted colours. Redecorating or refurbishing homes or business should
also be avoided, though there is no reason why decisions that have been made
earlier should not be allowed to come to fruition during this period.
With Venus retrograde, the pace of relationships slows down and this is
not the best time to get married or give big parties. Since Venus rules
diplomacy, slowdowns in all sorts of negotiations can be expected, including
industrial disputes, legal issues and diplomatic endeavours.
It is a time when we are called upon to go back and take care of
unfinished business. Often we are forced to deal with deep feelings that
have their origins in past events. They are activated on an inner level but
are often difficult to express to ourselves or others while Venus is
retrograde.
As the planet of love and values, Venus
retrograde periods are times when we re-assess what--and who--we value. It
is a period that most astrologers consider inopportune for getting married
or starting a new relationship. Financial undertakings are not advised
during this period as well.
When Venus is retrograde in the natal chart
itself, the feeling nature is deep. Socializing is taken seriously--rarely
lightly. The individuals can be somewhat shy in youth, as there can be an
awkwardness felt concerning small talk and social graces.
As the planet of love and values, Venus
retrograde periods are times when we re-assess what—and who—we value. It is
a period that most astrologers consider inopportune for getting married or
starting a new relationship. Major financial undertakings are not advised
during this period as well. Venus retrograde cycles are good times for
creating budgets and financial plans, and for re-thinking our personal
relationships. Taking action in the areas of finance and love is not advised
until Venus turns direct again.
Because Venus rules beauty and aesthetics, Venus
Retrograde is a less than ideal time for beautification processes (new
hairdos, enhancements, purchasing a new wardrobe, and so forth),
renovations, re-decorating, and the like. Because Venus is associated with
social events, parties may not go as planned.
On the subject of love, past lovers may
re-appear and some relationships may end. With Venus in Capricorn for most
of its retrograde cycle, our fear of rejection may be strong. Old friends
and lovers may re-appear, perhaps complicating current relationships. Venus
retrogrades when it conjuncts Chiron, the wounded healer, suggesting that we
may be nursing our relationship wounds during this cycle. We are called to
deal with relationship issues from the past.
Think back to what may have
happened during the last few Venus retrograde cycles (April through July
2004, September through December 2002. February through May 2001). Although
each retrograde cycle is different, similar issues may arise. In fact, some
of the issues we faced then may need to be dealt with now. Events occur that
seem fated or pre-destined. It will be a real challenge getting close to a
lover during this period of time. Unorthodox, experimental, and non-intimate
relationships may be favoured.
Particularly around the days of Venus' stations
(December 24th, 2005 and February 3rd, 2006), hold your tongue. If you are
itching to argue with a lover, try to hold off. It is likely that you will
have a change of heart once the station passes, and you can do a lot of
damage in the meantime.
Venus Retrograde in Aquarius
When Venus is retrograde, everyone's emotional state is more
introspective and we tend to react emotionally to the issues and concerns
that relate to the sign involved.
With Venus retrograde in Aquarius, people
with this sign prominent in their charts will be especially prone to such
introspection. There is little choice but to reconsider our personal
feelings and relationships. There is, however, an opportunity to gain
insight into one's own mode of relating, whether sexually, creatively, or
financially.
Venus retro in Aquarius forms acquaintances with strangers and gains friends
with ease, though the friendships and associations will be somewhat out of
the ordinary, with a marked tendency towards the experimental. Expect a
marked disregard for convention in personal tastes and friendships during
this period.
Groups will be favoured. Financial gain may come through friends and
associates, especially as a result of past commitments, but this generosity
may be withdrawn when Venus return to direct motion through the zodiac.
Wide-ranging social attitudes and behavioural patterns will come to the fore
and there may be some stiff resistance from conventional circles. A less
than passionate approach to romance and other close relationships is to be
expected, but unconventional or unorthodox relationships will be readily
embraced. Mental companionship will be the key.
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Mars retrograde
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Mars turns retrograde for 58-81
days every 2 years.
On October 1, 2005, Mars,
conjunct the pulsating, ill-omened star Caput Algol, reaches his station in
preparation for a period of retrograde motion which will last until December
10th.
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Mars Retrograde 2003 |
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Retro
Station |
Direct
Station |
Return |
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29
Jul 2003
Pisces |
26
Sep 2003
Pisces |
08
Nov 2003
Pisces |
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01
Oct 2005
Taurus |
09
Dec 2005
Taurus |
04
Feb 2006
Taurus |
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15
Nov 2007
Cancer |
30
Jan 2008
Gemini |
4
Apr 2008
Cancer |
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What does Mars retrograde affect?
As the god of warriors, Mars governs physical energy, ego, mental
strength and communication, male relationships, risk, physical challenges,
accidents, injuries, warfare, violence.
Mars retrograde gives rise to irrational action; introspection; depression
and self-assessment; relationship conflicts; major rethinks and
reorientation of current projects are also often required.
When Mars is in its retrograde cycle, we are
forced to re-assess our current projects, our approach to getting what we
want, and our desire nature. In Taurus, the sign of the bull, we should
become more pensive and deliberate, taking our time to reach our goals. If
we push ahead impulsively anyhow, we run into problems, obstacles, and
frustrations. The bull-headedness associated with the sign is emphasized.
Taurus rules finances, and we need to re-assess our approach to both earning
and spending money. Circumstances are likely to be such that we feel forced
to do so. Impulsive spending during this period is likely to have
consequences. We are apt to feel some frustration with regards to the
development and acquisition of our assets.
Mars turns retrograde at a time when it is part
of a yod configuration with Jupiter and Pluto, and when Venus opposes it
almost exactly. With Venus opposite Mars and Mars inconjunct both Jupiter
and Pluto, the configuration formed is a little more complex. This is a
powerful configuration, and those people with personal planets found at any
of its points (perhaps especially 23 Taurus and 23 Scorpio) are bound to
find the beginning of October especially busy and perhaps crisis-oriented.
Health issues may be a factor (especially in areas ruled by Taurus and
Scorpio--the throat and sexual organs), and accidents a possibility
throughout the Mars retrograde period. Avoid pushing matters or throwing
yourself into something new.
Retrograde in Taurus
Mars retro in
Taurus, the sign of the Bull, is heavily practical and deliberate, but
blocks foresight, disturbing organizational and executive action.
Circumstances tend to be thwarted by obstacles and and the desire to push
forward until your goal is reached. Control the tendency to overspend on
luxuries, especially clothing and fine foods.
People tend to be exceedingly
stubborn, and communication is not diplomatic, but blunt and when people
become angry they are apt to be bullheaded. If legacy comes to you there is
danger of losing it through legal trouble. There is also danger of
unfavorable unions, powerful opponents, scandal and monetary difficulties
which are usually the outcome of living too lavishly or from domestic
troubles. Drink adequate amounts of water (6-8 glasses daily) and avoid
eating hot and spicy foods to offset infection and inflammations,
particularly of the throat.
Mars turns retrograde in 2005 at a very sensitive cosmic moment, right at
the focus of a Yod, or "Finger of God" aspect from Jupiter (political
leaders; expansion; over-confidence) and Pluto (power
struggles). This suggests that a remarkable series of events will take place
in the political arena that will have long-lasting consequences — and
notably, Jupiter
enters Scorpio on Oct 25.
The last conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn,
marking a new phase of human development, occurred in May/June 2000 in the
sign of the Bull at 23° Taurus, and this major point of departure will be
re-activated on October 1, 2005 when Mars turns retrograde at 23° Taurus.
The timing is especially potent in that the retro turn heralds an Eclipse of the Sun
two days later on October 3. Since Mars (conflict; passion) turns in partile
(exact) conjunction with Israel's natal Sun (character), I leave you to draw
your own conclusions. Mars will also be in partile opposition to Venus
(forming a rare "tetradic yod") when he turns retrograde, so sexual
encounters, financial and emotional upheavals of all kinds are high on the
agenda.
Venus is conjunct the malefic fixed star Alpha
Serpentis (which featured so strongly in the 1999 Turkish earthquake
disaster). At the same time, there is another powerful yod in action,
between Sun and Saturn (sorrow; karma), focused on Uranus (sudden upheavals;
unexpected catastrophe). Expect some rough patches to emerge...
2005 is especially notable in terms of retrograde planets
and other cosmic nasties. In particular, the stresses will be intensified
when Saturn turns retrograde in square aspect to Mars. This happens in
November and December. Mercury turns retrograde on Nov 14, Saturn on Nov 22,
and Venus on December 24.
The difficulties and delays we experience during
this period are likely to be caused by lack of preparation, planning, and
organization—either on our own part or that of others. The maddening thing
is that even if you are the most careful individual, you are apt to be
caught just when things are in disarray, or, just when you need something,
it cannot be located in time. Bad timing is, in fact, one of the biggest
obstacles to progress. Others may physically resist or even threaten your
seniority or position of authority. Political situations are likely to
become dire.
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References
http://www.astrologycom.com/marsret.html
http://www.astrologycom.com/fixedstars.html
Jupiter
Pluto
Jupiter
enters Scorpio
Eclipse of the Sun
fixed star
1999 Turkish earthquake
retrograde planets
Mars retro period in
2005
The Red
Planet.
retro phase in 2003
A Close Call
from Planet Mars
Mars, the Red
Orb
Cafe astrology
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Pisces
The fish
i
19 Feb - 20 Mar
You are:
* compassionate & kind
* funny & imaginative
* sensitive & shy
Crystals for Pisces are:
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Amethyst
*
Chevron Amethyst
* Bloodstone
*
Clear Quartz
*
Fluorite
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