Mercury retrograde is the most well-known instance of planetary retrograde in astrology, although other planets and systems also experience retrogrades periodically.
At any given time, planets can either appear retrograde or in their usual energetic state. While the concept of retro shades, or retrograde shadows, is less common, it can provide a literal and figurative link to understanding the natural transitions that occur before and after a retrograde. The line between retrograde and the shadow cast by a retrograde can be so subtle that they are often mistaken for a complete retrograde period in an individual's astrological chart.
During a retro shade period, the astrological movement's station is changed and adjusted. The shadow cast by a retrograde, whether during the planet's entry into or exit from retrograde, can manifest in our lives as significant and sudden turnarounds at times, or as subtle changes that require attentive observation to notice the fading retrograde into a retro shade. The effects of a strong retrograde shadow in one's life can be described as feelings of energetic shifts, events, and directional changes akin to a U-turn.
The duration of a shadow period can vary, as can its significance on an individual's chart. This variation is often attributed to the distance between different planets and the sun or Earth. Retrograde shadows, however, tend to have consistent durations, lasting about two weeks both when entering and exiting a full retrograde. On average, retro shade periods last for three weeks, with up to four weeks between the pre-retrograde and post-retrograde shadow periods.
Moreover, the post-retrograde shadow period can be longer than the preceding shadow period, particularly if there is a need to catch up on energetic and practical experiences as the planet emerges from retrograde. The shadow periods before and after retrogrades can be likened to dessert, appetizer, or palate cleansing courses served between main courses. In this analogy, the retrograde itself represents the main course.
Like any moving object, the sun and planets require a period of acceleration or deceleration to return to their original positions. This is precisely what occurs during the four weeks at each end of a retrograde. Many people compare the planetary effects during these retrograde shadows to mini-reversal periods.
The term retro shade refers to the slowing or quickening of energy. To summarize, a retrograde period happens when a planet or aspect in your birth chart, as well as within the broader astrological sphere, moves backward for an extended duration. Mercury, a potentially disruptive planet, can significantly alter your life with its backward movement, which is known as opposite behavioral energy. This is especially true for those with Mercury ruling or advising prominent areas of their astrological birth charts.
During this transition period, take the opportunity to introspect, journal about current events in your life, and seek wisdom to resolve conflicts or understand which aspects of your relationships can be determined over time. Retro shades, like desserts and appetizers, offer delightful opportunities to transition your mindset, consciousness, and awareness for the upcoming retrograde. If you're coming out of a retrograde, shadow periods are ideal times to reflect on your discoveries from the retrograde as well as any significant changes that have occurred in your life.
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