Free Your Mind—Uranus' Retrograde Means Big Moments of Genius

Uranus Retrograde Dates: August 19, 2021 to January 18, 2022.

Retrogrades occur when a planet appears to move backwards in the sky, an optical illusion created by planets moving at different speeds (well, in a nutshell). While astronomers were able to scientifically crack this phenomenon centuries ago, planetary retrogrades remain a bit of an enigma in the mystical realms. Even established astrologers sometimes feel like planetary retrogrades are tricky to understand—simply because the energy of the planet becomes less predictable, more internal, and sometimes more destructive than when it is in a direct motion. This unpredictable behavior feels even more pronounced when we’re looking at Uranus retrogrades.

What Is Uranus Retrograde?

Known as the “rebel” of planetary archetypes, Uranus is all about creating change, even if it comes with upheaval. When Uranus’ energy is active, the only thing we can count on is the element of surprise—our boundaries are tested, innovation reigns supreme, and the old is destroyed to make way for the new.

When Is Uranus Retrograde?

This year kicked off with Uranus still retrograde, which began on August 14, 2020, at 10°42′ of Taurus. Its retrograde journey will end on January 13, 2021—when it stations direct at 6°43′ of Taurus. We’ll get a second showing of this energy on August 19, when the planet of change once more heads into a retrograde motion at 14°48′ of Taurus. This will last until it stations direct on January 18, 2022, at 10°49′ of Taurus.

What Does Uranus in Taurus Mean?

Since this retrograde occurs in Taurus, we’ll be dealing with themes around money, security, tangible objects, stability, our bodies, and where we place value. A Uranus in Taurus placement often creates quite a bit of tension—Taurus energy can be a bit stubborn and Uranus is the bringer of chaos and forced change. To further explore this dynamic, it’s important to look at other variables affecting the cosmic climate.

What Aspects Will Uranus in Taurus Make in 2021?

On August 19, on the same day Uranus goes retrograde, the planet of change will form a trine to Mercury. The energy here will be extremely inventive, and you may find yourself coming up with solutions to many of your problems. You may also find yourself improving at a skill you’ve been practicing for a while, but haven’t quite gotten the hang of. The following day, Uranus will make a second trine to Mars, giving you the motivation to go against the grain and do things your own way. During this period, you should allow your creativity to flow without restriction, and don’t be afraid of doing things differently than you’re used to.

Uranus will make several notable connections while it is retrograde, but you may want to pay special attention to the new moon in Virgo on September 6, when Uranus forms a trine to the sun and moon. This will be the perfect day to make resolutions around how you want to change up your routine or habits, especially if they are health-related. The Scorpio new moon on November 4, will also be significant: Uranus will form an opposition with the sun and moon during their conjunction. Tensions will likely come to a head on this day, and we’ll be forced to make any necessary changes we’ve been avoiding.

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While every sign will handle these transits differently—Aries, Capricorn, Libra, and Cancer are likely to feel its effects more intensely than the other signs. As cardinal signs, these members of the zodiac are used to facing challenges head-on. The energy will be intense, but by taking on problems as soon as they arise, these astrological leaders will certainly come out on top.

On the other hand, fixed signs such as Leo, Taurus, Aquarius, and Scorpio will likely be in for more of a challenge. Since these signs have a reputation for being stubborn or resistant to change, this retrograde could be difficult to navigate. If you are a fixed sign, remember to stay flexible during Uranus’ journey backward. There is good news for Sagittarius, Virgo, Gemini, and Pisces— your willingness to evolve and change will serve you well this year! Allow yourself to adapt and move through any obstacles that land in your path, and this retrograde will be easier to navigate.

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Uranus Retrograde Horoscopes by Zodiac Sign:

Aries:

You’ll likely feel up to any challenges that this retrograde brings your way right from the beginning. Since Uranus will be making a helpful aspect to your ruling planet, Mars, during the first days of its backward motion, you’ll get a little extra assistance when it comes to powering through the upcoming months. Just remember that mistakes made in haste can come with a hefty price tag right now. Try not to make any investments you haven’t fully thought through, and remember to stay on top of your existing responsibilities.

Taurus:

This retrograde is taking place under your zodiac sign, little Bull, which makes it all the more pertinent to you. If you’re open and willing to take on change, this could actually be a fabulous time for you. Just remember not to get caught up in stubborn behaviors, and allow yourself to see and acknowledge any negative patterns you’ve been working on. You may find that you’re rethinking your living situation or career aspirations during this time. Make sure you’re putting in the work to manifest change, and don’t be afraid to say “yes” to unexpected opportunities!

Gemini:

As a mutable sign that’s fantastic at multitasking and adapting, this may not be such a bad retrograde for you! However, as versatile as you are, when things go awry, you can run into issues with overstimulation or impatience. The Taurus energy presented to you right now is going to push you to the ground and center when things feel beyond your control. The Uranus retrogrades of 2021 are going to ask you to tap into patience, and remember that all good things come in their own time.

Cancer:

Being one of the more psychic zodiac signs, you may feel this retrograde on both a personal and collective level. For this reason, you could be tempted to retreat and stay cozy at home when things get messy. An important lesson for you this year will be about stepping up to any unexpected issues that arise. This will also be an extremely creative time for you, and the universe is going to push you toward manifesting your ideas into the material realms. This retrograde period, come out of your shell more, Cancer, and let the world see you!

Leo:

You’re known for your ability to express yourself, but remember to give others the chance to be seen right now, as well. It’ll be important that you listen to others during this retrograde, and you’re likely to learn something if you do. You’re used to having all eyes on your fabulous self, but being in the spotlight won’t feel so great when you’re in the middle of doing damage control. Heed the advice of others right now, and allow your practical side to shine as brightly as you do.

Virgo:

As a creature of habit, you may not love all the surprises coming your way during this retrograde. However, breaking out of your routine could be good for you right now, as it will open you up to new possibilities. This is also the perfect time for you to examine your self-worth and look into ways you can increase your income. If you’ve been considering applying for a new job or going back to school, now is the time to act on it. On a creative level, allow yourself to be more experimental!

Libra:

No matter what life throws at you, you can usually keep your cool, lovely Libra. However, this doesn’t make you immune to becoming emotionally overwhelmed when things go topsy turvy. This retrograde will be a good time to take on a new workout routine or meditation practice. Your traditional coping methods might not make the cut right now, but spending time in nature can help you recharge. You may want to check your spending habits right now, as well, so that you don’t overspend when you’re feeling emotional.

Scorpio:

With Taurus as your counterpart in the zodiac, the energy of this retrograde will flow right to you. As a natural empath, you may find that others are bombarding you with their own issues, which may be difficult to back away from. Check in with your boundaries during this retrograde, avoid drama, and don’t be afraid to break free from relationships or situations that are no longer serving you. Instead of exhausting yourself trying to clean up messes for other people, take time to nurture your intellectual and artistic sides.

Sagittarius:

Being one of the most daring zodiac signs, you’re unlikely to feel threatened by the challenges of this retrograde. However, you can sometimes run into issues around responsibility, and this might lead to some trouble. Take a look at your financial situation during this retrograde, and start making plans to pay off any debt you’ve incurred in the last few years. You’ll feel good about taking strides toward your financial future, and the universe will smile down on you for it!

Capricorn:

Capricorns sometimes get a bad rap for being cold or unemotional, but what others don’t understand is that they just value their composure! This retrograde, let your guard down from time to time, in favor of giving your creative, silly, and innovative sides a chance to come out and play. You may find that working off the cuff or being more impulsive brings you unexpected and delightful surprises. Don’t be afraid to take some calculated risks, and if you mess up, no one is better at damage control than the Sea-Goat!

Aquarius:

With Uranus as one of your ruling planets, this retrograde is sure to affect you. You may notice that your energy levels fluctuate more than usual, so give yourself some alone time to recharge when you begin to feel worn down. It’s okay to fly under the radar for a bit, to hone in on your skill sets—especially if it’s something you could monetize later. You will have flashes of creative inspiration during this time, so make sure you’re engaging with your artistic side often.

Pisces:

You have a reputation for going with the flow, little fish, but this retrograde could shake that up a bit. You may become more aware of what you are and aren’t willing to put up with from others, which will cause you to confront any issues you’ve been avoiding. Don’t let others push you around right now, especially when it comes to matters of love or money. If you begin to feel overwhelmed, find a calming and creative activity to help center you.