It’s that time of year… for the world to implode. This will undoubtedly be the theme for the rest of the year, as seven planets will retrograde — the majority of them at the same time.
In the coming months, Venus, Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto will all make backwards transits through the sky, causing havoc in their respective astrological domains.
A retrograde planet is one that appears to be moving backwards in the sky. While planets never literally ‘move backwards,’ ancient astrologers linked the appearance of a reversing planet to many significant events on Earth.
Retrogrades are typically associated with challenges that force us to reconsider or evaluate our beliefs, habits, or circumstances—even if we don’t believe we’re ready to do so. Although retrogrades are described as “potent” astrological events, they are not all bad.
The ‘re’ in retrograde represents reflection, reassessment, and reimagination. Overall, it is a good time to address any unresolved issues in our lives, whether they are related to health, communication, relationships, career, responsibilities, or personal power, and to use it as a period of mastery.
Be on the lookout for any profound shifts or thought-provoking insights around September 4, 2023, during this brief period of intense retrograde action. Mercury, the planet of communication, will aspect Jupiter, the planet of expansion, so set aside some time for journaling or meditation; you might be surprised at what celestial wisdom comes your way!
Folks, you heard it here first: Make a note of September 4 in your calendar!
So, what can we expect from this cataclysmic astrological event in which the majority of the planets in our solar system will retrograde?
Let’s go planet by planet, in the order their respective retrogrades will end…
• VENUS RETROGRADE 2023: JULY 23 TO SEPTEMBER 4
This retrograde is currently in effect, having begun on July 23. While it officially ends on September 4 (the day before Jupiter goes retrograde), the shadow period — the pre- and post-dates where effects can still be seen/felt — lasts until October 7, nearly a month after the retrograde ends.
This Venus retrograde is taking place in Leo, the sign that governs our vitality and self. However, because Venus is the planet of love and beauty, you may have a run-in with an ex or have a bad hair month.
Do: Reconnect with what makes you happy, think about how you can express yourself/your identity creatively, practice self-care, and let your authenticity shine.
Don’t: Get an impulse haircut or make a large purchase on the spur of the moment. You heard it first here.
Signs most affected: Taurus, Libra, Leo and Aquarius
• MERCURY RETROGRADE 2023: AUGUST 24 TO SEPTEMBER 16
Mercury typically retrogrades three to four times per year, which may be why we are most familiar with its effects.
The next retrograde will occur in late August to mid-September, with shadow periods extending from August 4 to September 30. As previously stated, Mercury retrograde has an impact on travel, transportation, communication, and technology.
This retrograde is taking place in the sign of Virgo, which is known as the most detail-oriented, orderly, and precise of the zodiac signs. As a result, this retrograde may manifest itself in your daily routine, habits, work and chores, and so on. Kristy, on the other hand, sees this as an opportunity to revisit these habits and determine what is and is not working.
Mercury Retrograde in Virgo is a time to fine-tune your communication, review your plans, and adopt a meticulous approach to your daily life. This is an excellent time to reflect, organize your thoughts, communicate clearly, and make decisions based on your intuition.
Do: Review and revise plans, improve communication, and get organized. “This is an excellent time to reflect, organize your thoughts, communicate clearly, and trust your intuition when making decisions.”
Don’t: Avoid long-winded and elaborate communications (emails, texts, etc.); back up your work! Keep saving, saving, saving.
Signs most affected: Gemini and Virgo
• PLUTO RETROGRADE 2023: MAY 11 TO OCTOBER 22
Pluto is currently retrograde through Aquarius and Capricorn until 2023. In fact, if the shadow period (December 10, 2022 to January 21, 2024) is included, it covers the entire year.
This Pluto retrograde is welcomed as “your celestial invitation to reclaim your personal power and prioritize purpose-driven actions.”
Do: Examine your inner strength and let go of anything that no longer serves you (thoughts, feelings, or actions).
Don’t: Plot world dominance unless you want to be a super villain.
Remember that change is a continuous process rather than a one-time event.
• SATURN RETROGRADE 2023: JUNE 18 TO NOVEMBER 4
Saturn goes retrograde once a year, which is always bad news for those who are in their Saturn’s Return.
Saturn Retrograde in Pisces encourages spiritual reflection, inner healing, letting go of limiting beliefs, and empowering you to commit to rituals and self-care practices.
Do: Exercise self-compassion, connect with your intuition, and engage in spiritual practices that help you grow.
Don’t: Give in to the temptation to completely escape reality. While daydreaming is acceptable, losing focus on what is important will cost you.
Signs most affected: Capricorn and Pisces
• NEPTUNE RETROGRADE 2023: JULY 1 TO DECEMBER 6
If you allow it, Neptune will join Saturn in its retrograde through Pisces, heightening your intuition and spiritual connection. This Neptune retrograde provides “vast opportunities for healing.”
Do: Practice mindfulness, engage in creative endeavors, and build self-confidence.
Don’t: Avoid overly mystical crystal shops unless you want to leave with a dozen healing stones and a large credit card bill. You are the ultimate oracle; believe in yourself.
Signs most affected: Gemini, Cancer and Scorpio
• JUPITER RETROGRADE 2023: SEPTEMBER 5 TO DECEMBER 31
Jupiter is retrograde right up until the New Year! Because Venus and Jupiter retrogrades do not overlap, there will be only six planets retrograding at the same time… unless you count shadow periods. (The shadow period of Jupiter retrograde is from June 9, 2023 to March 21, 2024.)
Jupiter is the planet of expansion, and its retrograde in Taurus encourages you to increase your self-esteem.
Do: Think about your values and how they align with your goals, then set some goals and get started by doing one small thing at a time. It takes time to master!
Don’t: Overindulge in opulent amenities and decadent treats.
Signs most affected: Taurus and Sagittarius
• URANUS RETROGRADE 2023-2024: AUGUST 29 TO JANUARY 27
Uranus Retrograde in Taurus represents a period of transformation. You will be encouraged to break free from stale routines, embrace change, and revolt against what isn’t working (on both the micro and macro levels).
Do: Embrace flexibility, try new things, and go with the flow.
Don’t: Participate in any extreme adventure sports. Find a happy medium between rebellion and submission.
Signs most affected: All 😀
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