Seven planets will retrograde – and almost all of them will happen at the same time.
Astrologers say we all need to be prepared for challenges that will force us to “take stock” or “review” our habits or circumstances – even if we don’t feel as if we are ready to do so, with the shift in the stars that is set to happen imminently.
Venus, Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto are the seven planets that will all make a backwards move through the sky in the coming months, something that will affect us all through our astrology charts.
The word “retrograde” is used to describe backward motion and science shows us that all the planets in our solar system move in one direction on elliptical paths around the sun, meaning retrograding planets only appear to be moving in reverse as we view them from our perspective on Earth.
Astrologers believe this shift affects humans as well as the solar system, and link the appearance of the movement to significant changes here on Earth.
Astrologer Kristy Gray said the retrogrades are potent astrological events and they can be used as opportunities to improve our lives, even if they feel very intense at the time.
Speaking to Elle magazine, she said: “The ‘re’ in retrograde symbolises reflect, reassess, and reimagine. Overall, it’s an opportune time to address any unresolved matters in our lives, whether related to health, communication, relationships, career, responsibilities or personal power, use it as a period for mastery.”
Although the retrograde happens for all, how it affects you will depend on your astrological “house” – something determined by your individual birth time and date.
Ms Gray continued: “During this small window of intense retrograde action, be on alert for any profound shifts or thought-provoking insights around 4 September 2023.
“Mercury the planet of communication will positively aspect Jupiter the planet of expansion, so carve out some time for journalling or meditation, as you may be surprised at what celestial wisdom drops in.”
So what are the seven planets and how will they affect us?
Retrograde dates for 2023
Venus Retrograde: From July 23 to September 4
This Venus retrograde is happening in the astrology house of Leo this year. Leo is the aspect of all of us that governs our vitality, confidence and self love. Venus is the planet of love and beauty so you may be affected with your outlook and appearance during this time.
The star signs that will be most affected by this one are Taurus, Libra, Leo and Aquarius.
Mercury Retrograde: From August 24 to September 16
Mercury usually retrogrades three to four times each year and Mercury tends to affect travel, transport, communication and technology.
This retrograde is occurring in the sign of Virgo, which is known as the star sign for being the most detail-oriented, orderly and precise. This retrograde could maker you struggle in your daily routine, your habits, work and chores and so on, but is also an opportunity to review what works for you and what does not.
Gemini and Virgo will be most affected by this one.
Pluto Retrograde: From May 11 to October 22
The Pluto retrograde is a lengthy one and Ms Gray says it is “your celestial invitation to reclaim your personal power and prioritise purpose-driven actions”. Taking time each day to slow down and work out what you want to be saying yes and no to, to live your life for you. All of the star signs are affected by this one.
Saturn Retrograde: From June 18 to November 4
Saturn Retrograde is in Pisces at this time and this calls for a spiritual review, inner healing, letting go of limiting beliefs and empowering you to commit to your rituals and self-care practices.
Capricorn and Pisces are the signs most affected during this time by this retrograde.
Neptune Retrograde: From July 1 to December 6
Neptune Retrograde is in Pisces at this time and this will see your intuition and spiritual connectedness heighten. But this will only happen if you are open to it. This one is good for healing and practising mindfulness and engaging in creative pursuits.
Jupiter Retrograde: From September 5 to December 31
Jupiter will have its retrograde in the sign of Taurus and this one encourages people to look at your self worth.
People are urged to reflect on values important to them and align them with their goals, set some goals and get to work by doing just one small thing at a time to make this retrograde work for them.
This one affects Taurus and Sagittarius the most.
Uranus Retrograde 2023-2024: August 29 to January 27
This one lasts until the new year and the retrograde happens in Taurus. This one represents a transformative period with people urged to break free from stagnant routines, embrace change and revolt against what isn’t working for them in their every day lives.
This one affects all of the star signs.
