Retrograde Motion

Retrograde motion is an optical illusion caused by differences in orbital speed between Earth and other planets. When Earth overtakes a slower outer planet (or is overtaken by a faster inner planet), that planet appears to reverse direction against the star background. Astrology interprets retrograde periods as times when the planet's energy turns inward—review, revision, and reconsideration replace forward progress. Natal retrograde planets often indicate areas where development is internalized or delayed.

Retrograde planets in your birth chart suggest areas where you process things internally before acting. During retrograde transits, expect themes of revision and reflection in that planet's domain.