Mercury Retrograde

 

Dates:  12.29.22 – 01.18.23

04.21.23 – 05.12.23

08.23.23 – 09.15.23

12.13.23 – 01.02.24

 

Mercury Retrograde is notorious for being a season of bad luck? Even those who prefer not to dip their toes too far into the ideas of astrology seem to know what Mercury retrograde is: a time of caution. Is Mercury Retrograde really all just doom and gloom – or is there an upside to these periods of the year?

 

The first thing you should know about mercury retrograde is that it brings about the winds of change. That being said, you don’t need to fear this change, as change is often necessary and beneficial.

 

From a planetary perspective, Mercury is the ruler of communication. Over the course of a Mercury retrograde pay extra attentions to matters pertaining to speech and communication, as it is easy for your message to become muddled or distorted at this time. Finalizing plans or difficult decisions during this time should also be avoided. Contracts signed during this time are likely to contain errors which will only be discovered in the future.

 

No need to fear a Mercury Retrograde – the best way you can deal with one is to slow down. Take time for self-care, mull over decisions, you may even find you catch mistakes during this period. Think over your life with a fine-tooth comb, this will benefit you upon coming out of mercury retrograde- Not to mention you will thank yourself for the rest period!

 

Crystal recommendation during this period:

 

My favourite crystals to combat negative energies associated with mercury retrogrades are Fluorite and Amazonite. Fluorite crystals can help to minimize negative energies brought on during this period. While Amazonite will soothe your nervous system and help you to remain calm and balanced.

 

 

Venus Retrograde

 

Dates:  07.23.23 – 09.04.23

 

Oh Venus, the planet which rules the concepts of femininity and love. When Venus appears to move backwards avoid issues pertaining to love – as along can go awry. Try not to address major issues pertaining to love and relationships during this forty-two day period.  Do not be surprised if past lovers resurface during this period, but do beware of trying to rekindle an old flame during this period.

 

This is a great time to examine red flags in a relationship, as you may be able to take a more objective look at the lover in your life. This is a good time to assess what is and is not working in your life’s close and intimate connections. When we sort out exactly what we look for in another during this retrograde, it lets us come out of Venus Retrograde attracting that type of partner.

 

Crystal recommendation during this period:

 

During the short period of Venus Retrograde each year I like to use my Rhodonite crystals for guidance. This crystal encourages cooperative energies and can help in healing emotional wounds.

 

Mars Retrograde

 

Dates:  10.30.22- 01.12.23

 

As a planet Mars rules the areas of temperament along with one’s overall energy. All of the energy that flows by way of the planet Mars seems to become stuck in the cosmos during the time of Mars Retrograde. This can cause an overall feeling of lethargy in individuals during this period.

 

Just like most retrograde periods, the best way to deal with mars retrograde is to match its energy (or in this case lack of). Make extra time for yourself, be especially careful not to rush during this period, as it will only exhaust you more. Take the time to go to sleep earlier and wake up later. All of this taking time for yourself will be felt coming out of Mars retrograde, you will leave this period feeling well rested and rejuvenated.

 

Crystal recommendation during this period:

 

I cannot recommend enough using Carnelian crystals during a period of Mars Retrograde. This crystal boosts our self-confidence, which may be feeling low during this time. It also gives a boost of energy – which is so very helpful during lethargic Mars Retrograde.

Saturn Retrograde

 

Dates: 06.17.23 – 11.04.23

 

Many cultures fear the period in which Saturn is in retrograde. In 2023, this will occur for roughly half of the year—so, what is the best way to be prepared for a Saturn retrograde? The answer is simply to be informed and prepared (you’re already ahead of the crowd in reading this).

 

You may wonder what about the planet of Saturn strikes fear into the hearts of so many around the globe. Well, in an attempt to unpack the negative reputation associated with Saturn you must first understand that it is the planet of Karma.

 

Most people do not live their lives according to the mantra that you should treat others how you would like to be treated—therefore, a period where one’s actions can be redirected back unto them causes feelings of discomfort in many. A time of Saturn retrograde is when you may feel the negative impact of karma.

 

Slow moving tasks that will likely take a long time to complete are best to start during a Saturn retrograde. You may find during this time you feel increased discipline to slow down and think out the very important starting details of an important project.

 

This is a great time to book yourself a spa day & relax. Take care of yourself and don’t forget the importance of reducing stress during this time.

 

 

Crystal recommendation during this period:

 

For the extended period of the year in which Saturn is in retrograde I recommend Tiger’s Eye & Black Tourmaline. Black tourmaline will be useful towards the beginning of this period as it will help one to dispel negative energy or in this case possible negative Karma that is on its way towards them. While Tiger’s Eye can help you to persevere through this complex energetic period and transform the energies around yourself into prosperity.

 

 

Uranus Retrograde

 

Dates:  08.24.22 – 01.22.23

08.29.23 – 01.27.24

 

The planet of revolution, Uranus retrograde urges us to look inward at aspect of self that may benefit from change. If you’ve been feeling like your stuck in an endless cycle that does not benefit you, now is your chance to change. If you’ve been waiting for just the right time to add spice to a rather dull and monotonous routine this is your chance to act on those desires.

 

Crystal recommendation during this period:

 

Moonstone crystals urge us to move into periods filled with healthy new beginnings. This is perfect for Uranus Retrograde—a time that pushes us to make positive life changes.

Jupiter Retrograde

 

Dates:  09.04.23 – 12.30.23

 

The energy surrounding the planet of Jupiter pertains to kindness, compassion and temperance. Jupiter can almost be thought of as a benevolent ruler, an omnipresent energy of overall positivity and objectivity. Going a bit deeper, Jupiter connects a lot of its planetary energy with the concept of spirituality. Retrograding Jupiter urges us to ask major philosophical questions about our own lives.

 

Take this time to explore ideas that may have been sitting dormant within yourself. If you have an unanswered question that is the perfect time to write it down or discuss it with others. Use a journal to write down some thoughts you may have during this time as they could bring clarity coming out of retrograde.

 

Crystal recommendation during this period:

 

Blue Apatite crystals can work wonders during a Jupiter Retrograde. It will aid in the expansion of inner wisdom. Meditate with a blue apatite crystal to help in thinking out tough decisions.

Pluto Retrograde

 

Dates:  05.01.23 – 10.11.23

 

The energy of Pluto very much pertains to transformation and rebirth. All areas of the subconscious are intimately intertwined with the planet of Pluto. The very structure of existence can be built and simultaneously torn down by Pluto.

 

As a Pluto retrograde is often associated with an internal crisis. A lack of understanding where we may fit into the greater expanse and how. This is a great time to do nothing, the harder you try during Pluto Retrograde the more likely you are to lose yourself. Be careful!

 

Crystal recommendation during this period:

 

During Pluto Retrograde I like to use Snowflake Obsidian. This crystal helps us to connect all aspects of our mind, body and soul, so that they work together in harmony. This harmonious energy can help us throughout Pluto Retrograde.