Understanding Astrological Shadow Periods

Retrogrades: Planetary Slowdowns

When an astrologer says a planet is retrograde, they’re referring to the optical illusion when a planet slows down its orbit and seems to be moving backward through the sky. The Sun and Moon are never retrograde, while other planets might be at various times in the year.

Retrograde periods can last from a few weeks to months. During this time, the planet’s themes become muted or challenged. For example, Mercury governs technology, travel, and communication. When this planet is retrograde, you might experience traffic problems, computer outages, or misunderstandings. 

Most people focus on the retrograde period, but the shadow period can be just as intense. In some cases, more so. For example, I have six “Mercury-ruled” planets in my birth chart. Hence, I tend to be more affected by Mercury’s movements than other planetary transits. When the shadow period shows up, the issues associated with Mercury enter my life early. Think of it like a movie trailer. Ironically, once the actual retrograde kicks in, I seem to fare better. (More information about every planetary retrograde from Mercury to Pluto.)

What is the shadow period?

The  shadow period, also referred to as retroshade, is the time before and after the retrograde, where the planet slows down before the actual retrograde and speeds up as it exits the period. Think of it like a three-act play: opening act (pre-retrograde), main act (retrograde), exit stage left (post-retrograde). 

Another term you’ll hear astrologers use is “station,” which refers to the moment when the planet stops before moving backward (retrograde) or when it stops again before moving forward. It’s like a pause before movement, which can feel both stagnant and intense simultaneously. Think of it like revving your engine. 

Here’s how it looks to astrologers:

The last time Mars stationed retrograde was on December 6, 2024, in Leo at 6º. This period ended on February 23, 2025, at 17º Cancer. Looking back, we can see that Mars was at 17º Cancer on October 6, 2024. This is the pre-shadow period. The post-shadow period concluded when Mars reached 6 ° Leo, which occurred on May 2, 2025. As you can see, the influence of the Mars retrograde is a long one! 

For a planet such as Mercury, the shadow period is much shorter, about 3 weeks before the retrograde and 3 weeks after. Even so, that’s 9 weeks out of the year— three times!

Astrologers pay attention to these phases because the pre-shadow allows for preparation. At the same time, the post-shadow period is for cleanup.

How shadow periods work

Using our Mars retrograde as an example, here’s how a shadow period works in practice. The pre-shadow is like the opening act. Think of it as a warm-up. You begin to see the themes and patterns emerge. During the last Mars pre-shadow period, I found myself more irritable than usual. Mars is associated with anger and ambition; in the sign of Cancer, it’s no surprise that I was overworked and “crabby.” I knew it was best to get organized if I wanted to keep my cool.

The retrograde period is when the main themes come to life. It’s your opportunity to review, revise, reflect, and redo. Basically, add “re” to anything and you’ll nail these astrological slowdowns. As Mars’s retrograde began in Leo, I found myself knee-deep in many creative projects that needed attention—and revision. It was stressful, but I was well-organized because I prepared (thank you, pre-shadow!).  Once Mars backtracked into Cancer, I could feel myself slipping into a cantankerous mood again, but I caught myself before I snapped!

When Mars stationed direct, my focus got better as I cruised towards the finish line. My organization and (mostly) chill attitude helped me stay on track until Mars left the post-shadow period. Results: every project crossed off the to-do list! Most importantly, I managed to keep my temper in check. Whew!

Why shadow periods matter

As you can see, I used the Mars retrograde shadow period wisely. Once you’re aware of them, you can prepare during the pre-shadow, which helps make the actual retrograde land better. Sure, you may still encounter astrological nonsense (I see you, Mercury retrograde), but the awareness will allow you to take things in stride—or have a just-in-case plan. 

Astrologers love shadow periods because they are helpful for reflection and planning. This leads to consciousness: rather than sleepwalking through life, you’re alert and informed, which allows for smart decision-making. No more blaming the retrograde—you’re prepared, not scared!

Advice for handling shadow periods

Pre-shadow: The most important thing you can do is pay attention to the themes and plan accordingly. For example, before Mercury retrograde, you’ll want to back up your computer, purchase necessary tech gear, sign contracts, and attend to routine car maintenance.

Retrograde: this is when “re” applies: revise, reflect, rethink, redo, and so on. Depending on the retrograde, you’ll want to apply this to the planet’s themes. For Mercury retrograde, you might need to reevaluate travel plans. In contrast, Venus retrograde could be well-suited for revisiting old relationships. 

Post-shadow: now you can tie up loose ends, integrate lessons that emerged during the retrograde, and move forward with clarity. For example, you might find that Mercury’s post-shadow period allows you to go ahead with new, revised plans. 

You might want to consider which house in your chart the transiting planet is moving through at the time of the retrograde. This will allow you to pinpoint specific areas that need your attention. For my Mars retrograde example, it was moving through my 10th house of career. With multiple creative work projects on the front burner, it’s no wonder I was stressed and ready to pop off! (Learn more about astrological houses.)

Tips for every planetary shadow period

Please keep in mind that the Sun and Moon are never retrograde; hence, there are no shadow periods for these two luminaries. (Check out this post on every planetary retrograde from Mercury to Pluto.)

Mercury

Pre-shadow tip: Back up your computer, purchase necessary tech gear, review contracts carefully, double-check travel plans, schedule car maintenance, and pay attention to conversations. If there is an important issue that needs to be discussed, now is the time. 

Post-shadow tip: Resolve communication issues, apologize, and feel free to sign contracts or purchase technology and/or automobiles. 

Venus

Pre-shadow tip: If you need to make a large purchase, do it now. Pay attention to how you’re feeling about relationships. Are there issues that need to be addressed? Is it time to examine your self-worth? Do you feel good about yourself? If not, what can you do to lift up your self-esteem? While you’re at it, elevate your self-care. Take care of your own needs, and you’ll be better equipped to take care of others.

Post-shadow tip: Reevaluate relationships. Did you experience a breakup or reconciliation during the retrograde? How do you feel about it now? If you decided to remain together, what can you do to strengthen your bond? You can move ahead with purchases, provided you did not overindulge during the retrograde period. Also, suppose you are considering plastic surgery or a major makeover. In that case, you can schedule it now (never do these things during a Venus retrograde!).

Mars

Pre-shadow tip: Acknowledge your frustrations. What’s getting under your skin? Consider ways to regulate yourself so you don’t lose your cool during the retrograde. Practice meditation or other methods to manage anger. Conserve your energy. Focus on goals and create a strategy.

Post-shadow tip: Reflect on what you’ve learned about ambition, anger, or impatience during the retrograde period. Did you need to make adjustments? Your energy should pick up now, giving you the green light to zip around obstacles and move toward your most ambitious goals. 

Jupiter

Pre-shadow tip: This is the ideal time to reflect on how you’re overdoing, overpromising, or overextending yourself. Where can you dial it back? You might want to trim the fat if you wish to avoid burnout. Reflect on your beliefs, travel plans, and educational goals. Additionally, level up your spiritual practices. It could keep you grounded. 

Post-shadow tip: Now you can expand your horizons, mind, and belief systems. Feel free to schedule your world tour. All systems are a go for you to grow. 

Saturn

Pre-shadow tip: Reflect on your boundaries and structures. Are they sound? If not, the retrograde may reveal the areas that need reinforcement. Take care of outstanding responsibilities. Don’t put off what the retrograde might force you to deal with soon. A plan of action will keep you grounded. Guard against rigidity and laziness. 

Post-shadow tip: What did you learn about your boundaries? Now you can integrate the lessons learned during the Saturn retrograde. If you have unfinished business, take care of it. Also, get back on your routines if they’ve fallen by the wayside. 

Uranus

Pre-shadow tip: You might feel restless now. It’s wise to practice a bit of restraint. However, if you want to make a change, get the ball rolling before the actual retrograde. Update your technology. Lastly, you’ll want to address issues with friends or your community. Don’t let resentment simmer - they could prove to be disruptive during Uranus retrograde.

Post-shadow tip: What breakthroughs emerged during the retrograde? If you experienced “aha” moments, you can apply those genius ideas now. Embrace innovation, disrupt the status quo, stand up to bullies, and get involved in movements that matter. You can rebuild groups if they’ve disbanded during the retrograde. Or move on to new social circles. 

Neptune

Pre-shadow tip: Explore your escapist tendencies. Do you overdo substances? Refuse to deal with situations? Spiritual bypass? Stay grounded and get real. Neptune retrograde can bring harsh reality checks, so it’s essential to develop a pragmatic attitude now. Also, if you’ve been overindulging in anything, get that under control.

Post-shadow tip: What insights arrived during the retrograde? Were you able to see the truth? Integrate those lessons and create a new vision for your future. If you’ve neglected your creative work or spiritual practices, you can reboot them now.

Pluto

Pre-shadow tip: This is a fantastic period to begin shadow work. What’s bubbling underneath the surface? Are there old issues that need to be excavated and transformed? Reflect now so you can do the work during the retrograde. Additionally, examine themes related to power, envy, and intimacy. Fears or unresolved issues around these themes might be revealed during Pluto retrograde.

Post-shadow tip: What did you learn about yourself during the retrograde? Use this period for healing work and reclaiming your power. Your transformation begins now. 

As you can see, the shadow periods offer opportunities to prepare for the retrograde and integrate what you’ve learned. Pay attention to these astrological cycles, and you could find they help you sail through the retrogrades or come out on the other side much wiser.