Astrology

2022 Kicks Off With 3 Retrogrades, So The Struggle Is Already Too Real

Yes, Mercury is one of them.

by Roya Backlund

Whether you’re a believer in astrology, I bet there are times you hear about a retrograde and think, “There’s no way that will affect me.” Then the retrograde finally arrives, and not only is it affecting you, but it’s 10 times worse than you thought it would be.

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These experiences are always humbling, because they remind you that even the most flawlessly articulated plans are no match for the unpredictable whims of the universe.

If you’re already feeling spooked and wondering what planets will be retrograde in January 2022, fear not, because I’m about to pour you a piping hot cup of cosmic tea.

Uranus Retrograde

Aug. 19, 2021 to Jan. 18, 2022

Because Uranus is an outer planet, you probably won’t feel this retrograde as intensely. Uranus is already retrograde around half of the time, making its retrograde far less noticeable because Uranus transits tend to affect you over a long period of time rather on a short-term basis.

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With that being said, Uranus is the planet of rebellion and individuality, and Uranus retrograde is a powerful time to tap into your independence and authenticity.

This retrograde will come to an end by Jan. 18, leaving you with its final conclusion.

Venus Retrograde

Dec. 19, 2021 to Jan. 29, 2022

You probably felt the harsh effects of Venus retrograde throughout December 2021. Venus is the planet of love and friendship, and when Venus stations retrograde, it tends to reveal all the weak spots in your relationships.

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Venus also rules over money and luxury, which means its retrograde could also reveal the negative impact of your spending habits, as well as the questionable ways you might seek pleasure.

This retrograde will last for the entirety of January, which means that 2022 begins by making you learn some hard lessons about your relationship with romance. Remember, a retrograde only reveals what was always there, biding its time before the truth finally makes itself clear.

Mercury Retrograde

Jan. 14, 2022 to Feb. 3, 2022

Uh oh, it’s the dreaded Mercury retrograde. This fast-moving inner planet stations retrograde around three or four times a year, but its retrograde only lasts a few weeks.

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Because this is the planet of communication and logic, it tends to leave you feeling disorganized and confused, as though something is being lost in translation. Instead of trying to make sense of it, embrace the odd things it forces you to pay attention to.

This retrograde begins in community-oriented Aquarius, reenters hardworking Capricorn on Jan. 25, and comes to a close on Feb. 3. Pay attention to what it reveals about your social life and your work ethic.