Neptune Retrograde 2020: Seeing Clearly
Our sixth planet just stationed Retrograde: Neptune. We currently have Pluto, Saturn, Venus, Jupiter, and Mercury spinning backward, the now Neptune joins them until November 8th. Known as the planet of dreamers, Neptune rules Pisces and is currently stationed in the fish’s stars. Before we get into what this means for us, let’s clear some things up. Firstly, retrogrades are not a bad thing. They are nothing to fear and bring us insights we would not typically gain otherwise. All planets retrograde at some point, we tend to feel the inner planet retrogrades (Mercury and Venus) much more intensely than the outer planets. Although, Mars is one we will feel when it retrogrades this September due to its proximity to Earth. Also, the planets are not moving backward. It is just an optical illusion created by our viewpoint from Earth. It’s much like when you are riding on a train and pass another one at a slower speed, for a moment, it appears the other train is moving backward. This perspective is similar to a retrograde.
Retrogrades of the outer planets provide valuable time to go within as they spiral the energy inward and give us space to contemplate deeper meanings of the vibration each planet holds. With six planets retrograding, there will be plenty of time for contemplation and realignment where necessary. We also in the midst of a powerful Eclipse Season along with these retrogrades, making there energy even more potent and needed. Each retrograde brings its own flavor and frequency, helping us integrate the lessons acquired as we pass through three Eclipse portals.
Neptune governs our spirituality, our illusions, and our dreams. It is responsible for both our fantasies and our delusions. When Neptune’s energy is present in our field because of a Moon or Sun conjunction, it feels much like the state between sleeping and awake. The energy is warm like a bubble bath, wrapping us in our dreams while making us feel like we are floating on air. If you’ve ever been lulled into a trance by the sea, that is the feeling of Neptune. Neptune feels nice to our system. With this dreamlike state comes illusions, though. Neptune can be quite the trickster blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. Fantasies and dreams are good, as long as we don’t get swept away in them and forget about what is happening around us.
When Neptune retrogrades, we gain clarity. Illusions fade, and reality becomes clear. In some ways, it can feel like the rose-tinted glasses have slipped off, making some of these new realities seem a bit harsh at first. Just remember, it is always best to see clearly, even if it is painful at first. If we want to change ourselves and the world, we must be honest about what is really happening within and around us. This Retrograde brings a deeper meaning to our dreams, along with clarifying them. Instead of remaining on the surface as lofty ambitions, our fantasies can take form and expand beyond their ethereal nature. During Neptune retrograde, become clear about the reality you want to take part in and manifest. Know that some of your dreams and visions may not make sense anymore. Release them and free the energy up to move into something that will stand the test of time.
Neptune Retrograde can help us find deeper meaning, not only in our dreams but also in our entire life. The energy ushers in a spiritual quest for each of us. It’s a time to look at the bigger picture and become the philosopher of our lives. There is an opportunity here to get out of the blaming or victim paradigm and to stop asking, “why me?” Instead, communicate with your soul to understand that everyone is your teacher, every mistake is a lesson, and every hurdle is a chance to evolve to the next level.
If you can remain focused on your growth with a clear vision, there is a great opportunity for healing with Neptune Retrograde. With Pisces involved, it is healing through understanding. Become the observer of your world and clearly view how your reactions may be controlling you. Notice when you go impulsively to anger or fear. Notice how you react to your dreams, especially when they start manifesting in reality. We often have a fear response when our visions begin taking form. Also, feel into any reactions you may be having to shame of guilt. Notice when these emotions come up and in what context. Neptune and Pisces both help us understand guilt and shift it, so we feel empowered to make choices rooted in the present.
Allow Neptune Retrograde to usher in a healing period for you and a time to step into the reality of the moment. See yourself clearly and recognize which fantasies are taking you down a path full of distractions. Notice when you attempt to escape from reality and ask yourself why. Instead, do something to create the reality you want to live in right now. Build something, write something, do something tangible that you feel, and see. Bring yourself into the physical plane with this Retrograde and meet your dreams there.
Neptune and the other Retrogrades will affect our Lunar Eclipse in Capricorn July 4th. Read more in the Capricorn Workbook.
