The Hidden Perks of Retrogrades
It’s no secret that we live in a fast-paced world. Every minute there are many images, messages, and noises that our minds soak up. Our senses are always overloaded. When planetary retrogrades occur in the cosmos, everything seems to pause and slow down on earth—which isn’t a bad thing. In fact, these are wonderful moments that allow us to find peace of mind, connect with old friends, and reflect. We can find our emotional and mental footing without the constant buzz and frustrations of the world—as long as you back up your computer and relax during the time of these planetary retrogrades.
Reflection
There is a myth floating around the astrological community that Mercury started to move in retrograde motion to reflect upon his youthful folly. Mercury was and still is a trickster and conniver who played jokes on a lot of people at their expense. When the retrograde begins, he feels guilty about everything he’s done in the past to hurt others. We should take a lesson from Mercury and do the same. You don’t have to beat yourself up over things that are said and done. However, it’s a good idea to understand your role in matters and allow yourself to have a clean slate.
Connection
Contrary to what a lot of people think, retrogrades are a wonderful time to connect with old friends and former lovers. It doesn’t mean that you are getting back together or starting a relationship again, rather that you are creating a bridge to reach out to them to see how they are (and vice versa). If they reach out to you, say “hello” to your old ghosts. Reminisce about the past, discuss the present, and take solace in knowing that you have someone who cares about you that’s checking in—even if you don’t talk to them on a regular basis throughout the year.
Relaxation
Retrogrades can help you find peace within yourself. It’s not advisable to take on too many new projects, which means that you will have plenty of time to relax and to decompress (if you stay out of trouble and gossip). This will require you to turn your phone and computer off for a few hours a day in order to focus on yourself. If you choose not to give others energy and find a fun activity to do like puzzles or art that you can do alone, then you will be able to melt easy stresses and anxieties that have been weighing on you. Give your body and mind a break. Sleep in. Take a bath. Watch movies at home. Relax.
Healing
Everyone has emotional hurt that they carry within themselves. Retrogrades can help us release negative energy and trauma. Talking out fears, facing demons, and past upsets or letdowns can be extremely cathartic. The only thing standing in the way is the anxiety associated with letting go of troubles. After all, when someone is used to feeling a certain way for quite some time, comfort in being in pain can be a sentiment that is hard to move away from. Being in a good emotional space and place takes a lot of work and time, but retrogrades are the time to start the process.
Inner Child
Retrogrades are a good excuse to evoke your inner child. Do an activity that reminds you of your glory days and adolescence. Maybe crafting or going on a long bike ride dance without a schedule will make you nostalgic for the good old days—a time when you were free. Treat yourself to a day at the fair or beach and ice cream. Remember how you felt in that moment and also when you were younger. Allow yourself to soak it in. This will help you ignite the inner child within who’s longing to come out and be seen after years of having to be repressed.
Make Amends
Retrogrades bring up old conflicts and arguments. However, they also offer a time when you can make amends and move forward in the situation or a relationship—especially the one you have with yourself. Apologizing and accepting apologies from others will allow you to get clarity on old wounds and dynamics. Whether you accept it or not is up to you. But at least hear out the other person. You’ve been carrying the grief and drama around; it’s time to detach from the energy and squash these matters. Remember that the most important person to forgive is yourself for your role in anything that you’ve done in the past.
Written by Lisa Stardust.
Lead Photo Courtesy of Maksim Goncharenok on Pexels.
