Happy Wednesday, darlings! I hope your week has been great! I traveled to Nashville over the weekend with a friend of mine. It was nice to get away and spend some quality time with her. Since last Thursday, I’ve been feeling a lot of energetic shifts. I’ve been feeling tired, unmotivated, and emotional. We are within a week of a lunar eclipse and full moon. I’m also working under the assumption that the retrogrades that we’re currently experiencing are a factor to consider as well.

A retrograde sounds scary. Some make it seem like some apocalyptic event; set to destroy the world. In reality, a retrograde is when a planet appears to move in the opposite direction. This is an optical illusion. Energetically, it could have an effect on you. I like to consider the planet that the retrograde effects. What does that planet rule? Will it affect money, relationships, career, etc.? The energy shift can be a potent catalyst for change.

Pluto Retrograde

Pluto retrograde began April 29th, right before the new moon/solar eclipse. This will extend until October 8th. Pluto only goes into retrograde once a year. Compared to others, we tend to worry about it less. Pluto stands for transformation, death, and rebirth. This planet’s energy will prune the things that no longer fit into your life. This planet rules Scorpio, so Pluto’s energy can be powerful. At this time, Pluto is stationed in Capricorn.

When this planet goes retrograde, consider your own life path. What have you been avoiding? Have you experienced any major life events? Are there any areas of your life that you feel out of control? Take back control of your life with this retrograde. If a relationship no longer serves, walk away. If your job makes you unhappy, find a new one. Consider your own behaviors. None of us are without room for improvement. Shadow work is an excellent method to use when you desire real internal change. While the goal is never to erase your shadow or ego, balance and control are critical. The shadow aspects of yourself can sabotage the good things in your life when it’s not checked.

Mercury Retrograde

On the other hand, we have Mercury retrograde as of May 10th. The most familiar, it goes retrograde about three times a year. Mercury stands for communication and information. This is how you speak to other people, receive information, and process ideas. This planet rules Gemini and Virgo, both intellectually driven. The Mercury retrograde is happening in the sign of Gemini and then in Taurus until June 3rd. The shadow period will last until the 18th, then the energy will clear once and for all.

When Mercury goes retrograde, you may experience confusion or delays. Your ideas may come across in a haze. You may not be absorbing information at the rate you’re accustomed to. You may feel a lack of energy and motivation. You may be recalling older emotions and conversations you thought were behind you. It can be helpful to sit with these emotions. Consider how much you’ve changed and grown since you experienced them. Since everyone experiences this, you may be on the receiving end. If anyone has been distant or ghosted, they may return. You’re the best judge of what will be suitable for your life. You may even be able to resolve any communication issues that arise, strengthening your relationships. In my experience, Mercury retrograde is helpful for self-reflection and change. You may feel more comfortable withholding action on your plans, but you’ll know where you stand.