lunar-and-planetary-retrogrades

Why Retrogrades Matter in Astrology

Have you ever noticed the Moon or planets appearing to move backward across the night sky? These moments are known as lunar and planetary retrogrades. Astronomically, it’s an optical illusion caused by Earth’s orbit, but in astrology, retrogrades are powerful pauses in the cosmos that encourage reflection, review, and inner growth.

These periods aren’t “bad luck”—they’re opportunities to slow down, revisit old projects, and realign your energy. In this guide, we’ll cover six months of retrogrades and lunar events, plus tips to handle them, with calendars you can download directly to your phone.


Table of Contents

1. What Does “Retrograde” Actually Mean?

2. The Moon and Retrograde Motion

3. Six-Month Lunar and Planetary Retrograde Calendar

4. How to Navigate Current Retrogrades

5. Astrological Patterns During Overlapping Retrogrades

6. Rituals, Reflection, and Journaling Ideas

7. FAQ: Lunar & Planetary Retrogrades (Oct 2025–Mar 2026)


1. What Does “Retrograde” Actually Mean?

Imagine you’re on a merry-go-round and another kid on a faster one appears to move backward. That’s retrograde motion. It’s not real—it’s your perspective on Earth’s orbit.

When planets are direct, energy moves forward smoothly. During retrogrades, astrologers see it as a chance to review lessons and slow down. For instance, Mercury retrograde signals double-checking messages, travel plans, or contracts.


2. The Moon and Retrograde Motion

Good news: the Moon never goes retrograde. It moves quickly, about every two days through a sign. But the Moon does have void-of-course (VOC) periods, short moments when it isn’t strongly interacting with other planets.

During VOCs, energy feels inward and reflective—great for rest, meditation, or journaling, not for launching new projects.

Also, the lunar nodes—points of destiny—move backward all the time. In 2025, the North Node is in Pisces, encouraging us to release old habits and dream bigger, adding retrograde energy to our spiritual lessons.

3. Six-Month Lunar and Planetary Retrogrades Calendar

We’ve compiled six months of key astrology events—retrogrades, void-of-course moons, eclipses, and solstices—so you can track planetary energy. Each month has a placeholder for charts and a downloadable calendar for your phone.

Times in UTC—check your local time for exact figures for your area. Click a Calendar Month below to see the retrograde times

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Retrogrades can feel challenging, but simple strategies help:

  • Saturn: Reflect on boundaries and responsibilities. Journal your limits.
  • Uranus: Embrace surprises and brainstorm solutions for stuck areas.
  • Neptune: Ground your energy with walks, meditation, or creative work.
  • Mercury: (upcoming): Back up files, clarify communication, and think twice before trips.

Tie these with lunar phases: for example, the New Moon in Scorpio (October 31) is ideal for resetting intentions under retrograde influence.


5. Astrological Patterns During Overlapping Retrogrades

When multiple planets retrograde simultaneously, energy intensifies for reflection.

  • In October 2025, Neptune in Pisces retrogrades alongside Saturn, prompting karmic reviews.
  • Pluto going direct opposes Mercury soon, highlighting power dynamics.

These “retrograde clusters” are perfect for healing and deep inner work.


6. Rituals, Reflection, and Journaling Ideas

  • Journaling Prompts:
    • Saturn: “Which rules hold me back?”
    • Uranus: “What surprise excites me?”
    • Neptune: “Which dreams are realistic, and which are illusions?”
  • Lunar Practices: Sit under the Moon, meditate, or release intentions during VOC periods.
  • Extras: Crystals, herbs, or tarot can amplify reflection during retrogrades.

7. FAQ: Lunar & Planetary Retrogrades (Oct 2025–Mar 2026)

1. What does “retrograde” mean in astrology?
Retrograde occurs when a planet appears to move backward in the sky from Earth’s perspective. Astrologically, it signals a time to review, reflect, and realign energy.

2. Do all planets go retrograde?
Yes, most planets except the Moon have retrograde periods. The Moon moves quickly through signs but has void-of-course (VOC) periods, which are short reflective pauses.

3. How can I use this six-month retrograde calendar?
Track upcoming retrogrades and VOC periods to plan important decisions, launch projects, or practice reflection and journaling during slower cosmic energy.

4. Are retrogrades “bad luck”?
No—retrogrades aren’t negative. They’re opportunities to pause, reassess, and adjust actions in alignment with your goals.

5. Are the times in my local timezone?
All times in the article are in UTC. Check your local time to align the retrograde periods with your location.

6. What if multiple planets are retrograde at the same time?
Overlapping retrogrades, or “retrograde clusters,” intensify reflective energy. It’s a good time for inner work, resolving past issues, and careful planning.

7. Can I download this calendar?
Yes! The article provides downloadable calendars so you can keep track of lunar and planetary retrogrades directly on your phone.

8. Conclusion

Retrogrades aren’t obstacles—they’re opportunities. By tracking six months of retrogrades and lunar events, you can plan around cosmic energy, reflect deeply, and align intentions with the stars.

What’s your favorite retrograde ritual? Share below!
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