Planetary Returns in Astrology

In astrology, planetary returns are times when the position of a planet in the natal chart moves backwards and then starts moving in the right direction again. These are periods of time when astrological influences intensify and significant changes in life can occur.

Planetary reversals are often associated with periods of retrograde motion, called retrograde. During retrograde periods, the energy of the planet can weaken and its effects can be deeper and more internal. During these periods, issues from the past can be revisited and an inner transformation process can take place.

The return of each planet carries a different effect and meaning. For example, Mercury retrograde periods are often associated with communication difficulties, technical problems and travel disruptions, while Venus retrograde periods can bring review and reassessment processes in relationships and financial matters.

In astrology, planetary retrogrades are an important tool for understanding the movements and effects of the planets in the natal chart. Understanding the energies experienced during these periods and using these effects in a positive way can offer opportunities for personal development and transformation.

In astrology, planetary returns can be experienced in different ways depending on the person's natal chart and other astrological factors. Therefore, it is important to seek astrological advice and work with a professional astrologer during these periods.

Remember, planetary returns are a complex astrological phenomenon with profound effects and can offer different experiences for everyone. We recommend consulting an expert astrologer to better understand how planetary returns will affect you based on your individual astrological chart and see in your birth chart.

Planetary Returns in Astrology, We Explain

If you're approaching your late twenties or older, you've probably heard the term 'Saturn return'. This astrological phenomenon is like a cosmic quinceanera or a starry bar mitzvah; it brings with it the idea of truly becoming an adult. And this is just one of the many planetary returns in astrology.

No, Saturn is not the only planet that makes a rotation; in fact, all the celestial bodies in our solar system have "rotation" phases. So what do planetary rotations mean?

What are planetary rotations in astrology?

Planetary returns occur when a planet makes a complete circuit of the zodiacal belt and "returns" to your home in the same sign (and degree) as when you were born.

These cosmic phenomena are like astrological homecomings. Imagine a person going around the Earth in a circle, eventually returning to the starting point.

Planetary revolutions occur at different times depending on the proximity of the celestial body to the Earth (and the Sun). We know that the planets revolve around the Sun, but astrology is geocentric, meaning that the Earth is the center of the zodiac wheel. In your birth chart, you are the center of the universe, a star shining about you.

Which Planetary Returns Matter?

Here are the most common planetary returns astrologers look at when considering the timing of major life events:

Sun Return

Takes place Once a year

This is an elegant expression for your birthday. Every year, the Earth makes a complete revolution around the Sun through all 12 zodiac signs. When it returns to the position it was in when you were born, you add one year to your age.

But here's something interesting! Since there's a 99.9% chance that the other planets that are aligned the same way in the year you were born will not be the same, you can create a birthday chart for every year of your life. This is called a Solar Return Map.

Moon Return

Takes place Once a month

It takes about a month for the Moon to make a complete revolution through the zodiac. Therefore, the Lunar Return happens every month. This return can give you in-depth information about your emotional balance, your inner world and your emotional reactions. You can get clues about how you will feel that month, what emotional challenges or successes you will experience.

Jupiter Return

It happens: Every 12-13 years

This rotation takes place approximately every 12 years. Jupiter is the planet of abundance, expansion and luck. During this return, you can see which areas of your life are ripe for growth and expansion. This is a time of new opportunities, education, travel and personal growth. Jupiter's return can be a great time to take risks and expand your life.

Saturn Returns

It happens Every 29.5 years

Saturn return is often considered the beginning of adulthood. Saturn is about responsibility, boundaries and structure. During this return, you should think about which areas of your life you need to take more responsibility for, how to set boundaries and how to bring more structure into your life. Saturn return is a time of great transformation and growth in personal and professional life. This process can sometimes be challenging because Saturn shows us the facts and the realities of life. But when you overcome these challenges, you become a more mature, determined and goal-oriented individual.

Nodal Return

It happens Every 18-19 years

The Nodes are special astrological points that indicate our fateful paths and spiritual purpose. The North Node represents where you should be heading in this life; the South Node represents the talents and habits you bring from your past lives. The nodal return offers you the opportunity to assess whether you are moving in the right direction on the fateful path and to choose a direction more in line with your spiritual purpose.

You can find more information about the North and South Nodes in our blog content on the lunar nodes.

In conclusion, planetary returns offer important clues about what awaits you at different stages of your life. Each one is an opportunity for reassessment, growth and transformation in a particular area of life. By delving deeper into your astrological chart, you can discover what these returns mean for you.