In astrology, the term “retrograde” refers to the period when a planet appears to move backwards in the sky from our perspective on Earth. This optical illusion is caused by the different speeds at which planets orbit the Sun. While this phenomenon is astronomically predictable, its astrological implications are far-reaching. Retrograde planets disrupt the natural flow of energy and bring about inner reflection, procrastination, or even karmic reviews. They serve as cosmic checkpoints, urging us to pause, reevaluate, and realign our actions with deeper truths. When planets are direct or transiting in your natal chart, they often mark important turning points in your life’s destiny. When a planet is retrograde in your birth chart, it means that the lessons that planet is guiding are more internal and karmic. For example, if you were born with Mercury retrograde, your communication style may be more introspective or reflective, and you may need to work harder to express yourself clearly....