(War)ning Signs: Jupiter Retrograde in Aries and Pisces, 2022

On May 10th, 2022, Jupiter left it's home sign of Pisces and entered Aries, a cardinal fire sign ruled by Mars. However, on July 28th, Jupiter stationed retrograde, where it will eventually travel back into Pisces on October 28th. Jupiter will station direct at 28'47 degrees Pisces on November 23rd, and it will travel back into Aries on December 21st. Here's what to expect.

What does it mean for Jupiter to be Retrograde?

A retrograde planet is a planet that appears to be moving backwards. All planets go retrograde at some point, save for the Sun and the Moon. From an astrological perspective, this means that the energies the planet represents are directed backward or inward.

As I wrote here, retrograde periods are known to be riddled with delays and disruption, but they don't necessarily have to be. These periods are not so much a time for action as they are for reflection. These periods are often loaded with synchronicity and karma. So, they can also be periods of magic and manifestation if you just focus on within rather than without. Things from the past will return to us. This could be people from our past, including from our past lives, situations or memories that we thought we had forgotten about, or maybe just lessons that we're getting a second chance at learning after having failed the first time around.

You may have already heard of Mercury in Retrograde, when communication goes haywire, or maybe even Venus in Retrograde, when our relationships are put into question, but what does it mean for Jupiter to be in retrograde?

For starters, Jupiter goes retrograde only once a year, but its retrograde period is longer, lasting for about four months. As with all of the larger planets, the length of time causes it to go unnoticed by some. Traditionally known as the great benefic, some astrologers consider Jupiter's retrograde period to be "less negative," than the other planet's, but that doesn't mean it's without its challenges.

Jupiter brings blessings to whatever area of the chart it's located in. But when Jupiter goes retrograde, you may find out that blessing isn't what you thought it was, or isn't yours at all. It's as if the Universe gifted you with most magical thing you could possibly imagine only to snatch it away from you just like that. Why? You may wonder. Well, think of it as a test. A test to see whether or not you're really prepared for the gifts Jupiter is about to bring your way. In order to receive what you want, you have to learn how to be happy without it. You can't depend on an external source for your happiness. True happiness comes from within. Think of this as a period of learning how to be happy on your own. Once Jupiter goes direct, you may find you don't even want it anymore. It may come back, or you may be blessed with something even better. Perhaps what you thought you wanted wasn't really what you wanted, anyway. Either way, you'll find that the knowledge you gained during this retrograde period paid off. Whatever difficulty you went through, it was really just a blessing in disguise.

To give you a good example about how Jupiter in retrograde can play out, a few years ago, when Jupiter was in Scorpio, my friend thought she had met the man of her dreams. It's worth noting that Jupiter ruled both of their seventh houses. They seemed to have a telepathic connection, their meeting seemed fated, and he seemed to feel the same way about her too. It seemed magical, he was everything she wished for, it seemed too good to be true, and it was. On the exact day that Jupiter went Retrograde, he called her to say it wouldn't work out. For personal reasons, he wasn't ready for a new relationship just yet, and wouldn't be ready for a few months. Being a bit of an astrology fanatic herself, she took note of the date, thinking he’d be back by July 10, when Jupiter went direct. Four months. Perhaps, he'd be ready then. She dated other people, a wide variety of other people, and tried to cultivate happiness from within, but she couldn't let go, until by the end of Jupiter's retrograde period, when she was starting to gain more and more confidence in herself, she met someone else. A new boyfriend. Someone unexpected, someone even better. That man she thought she liked never did come back, but by then, she stopped caring because she already had all that she wanted. Of course it could play out in many different ways!

More than anything, Jupiter retrograde is a time for philosophical reflection and spiritual introspection. It helps us to become aware of whatever is hindering our spiritual development so we can move forward and grow.

Jupiter Retrograde in Aries

Jupiter in Pisces may have made our dreams come true, but that doesn't necessarily mean our dreams will last. As a mutable water sign ruled by Jupiter, obviously, and Neptune in modern astrology, Pisces has a tendency to get too lost in their daydreams, heads too stuck in the clouds to do any work. On that note, Jupiter in Aries gives us a much-needed wake-up call, reminding us that we need to take action if we want those dreams to last. Our passions are likely to increase, as well as our thirst for adventure. In other words, Jupiter in Aries likely brought a burst of energy and increase in confidence to those who are affected. This cardinal fire sign is associated with independence, individualism, and motivation, meaning this transit may have been freeing for many of us, enabling to go after what we ourselves want and be proactive in our own decision-making.

However, if we've been acting cocky and impatient with others, we can expect this newfound energy and confidence in ourselves to backfire now that Jupiter has gone Retrograde, causing the brief blaze of glory to burnt out like a match. It's also possible that our passion and thirst for adventure may have gotten the best of us during this transit, leading to impulsive and even toxic behavior, rushing into things too soon before we really know what we are getting ourselves into. Now that Jupiter's Retrograde, we're being asked to pause and reflect on our decisions: do we really want whatever dream it is we are chasing? We may be forced to deal with the consequences of our passionate and/or impulsive behavior. We can think of this as a warning sign of what might happen if we let ourselves lost control, a reminder to gain control over ourselves.

Looking at this transit from a more global perspective, Aries is ruled by Mars, the planet of war, and rather predictably (for astrologers), Jupiter's entrance into Aries coincided with the beginnings of what many fear to be World War 3 (unfortunately, I have yet to write an article about this because I've been super busy!). While I hope Jupiter in Retrograde may lead to a resolution, I am not sure, but it will likely bring some changes - on a positive note, it could indicate negotiations, and on a negative note, it could indicate the return of some old fears and/or animosities.

Of course, like all transits, Jupiter's station Retrograde in Aries is influenced by the aspects it makes. What's very interesting about this transit in particular is that it was trine the New Moon at 7 degrees Leo. This is a very positive sign, sparking feelings of joy, creativity, and confidence expressing ourselves as individuals, while at the same time, wanting to grow and better who we are. On another note, this transit coincidences with a t-square between Mercury at 18 degrees Leo, Mars at 16 degrees Taurus (and North Node/Uranus at 18 degrees) and Saturn at 23 degrees Aquarius. There could be some heated verbal exchanges, or arguments that is, that spark this need for change. There may be misunderstandings or we might feel blocked from speaking our truth, increasing our motivation to grow and get to the root of whatever problems may be causing this.

Jupiter Retrograde in Pisces

When Jupiter was last Retrograde in Pisces, back in 2021, I predicted a rise in COVID-19 cases. Jupiter in Capricorn (it's fall) had us on lockdown, while Jupiter in Aquarius (arguably) made things a little better by bringing us the vaccine. However, freedom only came when Jupiter entered Pisces (it's domicile): most mask mandates and restrictions were lifted at this time, but I predicted that when Jupiter went Retrograde, this newfound freedom would lead to a rise in new variants, the idea that "the pandemic is all over" being nothing more than an illusion. Therefore, I think, it's possible that something similar may happen now. At this point, even *I* am not too fussed about wearing a mask anymore, but might I be wrong in this?

On a more personal level, however, if we took a wrong turn or missed out on chasing our dreams, this transit gives us another chance to correct it. While ruled by Jupiter, Pisces has a tendency towards self-deprecation: in other words, it's possible that we sabotaged our dreams due to feelings of unworthiness, or we may have spaced out through it all, when we could have taken action on an opportunity. This retrograde will allow us to re-trace our steps and make peace with the past, so that we can make our dreams a reality, now that we are sure of what we want. Events that happened during the first week of May may come back in some form, or we may have an opportunity to re-do or fix a mistake that we made during this time.

Jupiter Direct

Jupiter will station direct at 28 degrees Pisces on November 23rd, 2022, the same day as the New Moon at the first degree of Sagittarius. This is interesting considering that Jupiter rules both the signs of Sagittarius and Pisces, expanding on Jupiter's expansive qualities, while the New Moon is associated with new beginnings. In other words, we will come out of this transit with a renewed faith in life, and our sense of optimism will be restored. The meaning of all life's events should become clearer now; we may begin to have a better understanding of how certain challenges might have helped us to grow. Since Jupiter is the planet of philosophy, it is likely that we will gain some clarity on what it is we really believe in, so that we can stand up for it and lessons may come to us, so that we can put them into practice. Jupiter will be conjunct Neptune at 22 degrees Pisces, indicating such beliefs are likely to be spiritual or religious in nature, and the square to Mars at 21 degrees Gemini may suggest the motivation to translate those beliefs into actions. With Mars Retrograde, it could also finally suggest a resolution to conflict, battles (whether internal or external) coming to an end.

Horoscopes

Now it's time to see how it will affect your sign. I suggest reading the horoscope for your ascendant or rising sign, first, instead of the sun. I find the rising sign horoscope to be more accurate than the sun, as these horoscopes are based on the houses. If you don't know your rising sign, click here to generate a birth chart. Yes, you will need your birth time for this. If you don't have your birth time, Sun sign horoscopes are the next best thing. If you want to know more about how this transit will affect you in depth, on a more personal level, click here to schedule a reading with me. Those of you with any planets or angles between 26 and 30 degrees of the mutable signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces) or between 0 and 10 of the cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn) will most especially be affected by this transit.

Aries Rising (or Sun)

Life must seem amazing for you, Aries! With Jupiter, the Great Benefic, in your 1st house, you seem to have even more confidence, more energy and better luck than usual. Health-wise, you are likely to be in good shape, and your moods lean towards optimism, feeling as if whatever you set your mind to, you can achieve. However, there may danger in over-doing things, and with Jupiter now Retrograde, you may be forced to wrestle with the consequences of any selfish, impulsive or overly-indulgent actions that have resulted from your happier-than-usual outlook. It's even possible that health issues will arise from too much excess. Jupiter is a very spiritual planet - your 9th house ruler! - concerned with philosophy and ethics and all that good stuff, causing you to question what it is you value and believe. When it travels back into it's home sign of Pisces - your 12th house - you'll be learning the importance of directing that abundance of confidence and energy into a positive and generous cause, if you want it to last.

Taurus Rising (or Sun)

The independence of Jupiter in Aries has been affecting you quite strongly, Taurus. With Jupiter in your 12th house, it's likely you've been drawn to privacy, solitude, and feel happiest when learning to stand on your own two feet. There may be an expansion of your interest in spirituality, growth and all that is eternal. However, with Jupiter hidden away at the back of your chart, at worst, you could feel like the joy has been zapped from your life. Perhaps, you've recently found out that some friends were really enemies, leading you to withdraw from normal social life. With Jupiter Retrograde, you may be feeling an urge to get back out into the world. After all, a true spiritual path involves action, does it not? Using your gifts to benefit the world in some way? These feelings may grow even stronger when Jupiter enters Pisces, your 11th house of friends and social groups, causing you to reflect on what makes a good friend and how you can be a good friend to others. Perhaps, you'll be making new connections and repairing old ones, bringing you out of any isolation you may have been experiencing.

Gemini Rising (or Sun)

You're stereotyped to be quite the social butterfly, Gemini, but this is not always the case. As a mutable air sign, you may be used to people coming in and out of your life, but the truth is, like anyone else, you want friends who will stick around. Sometimes it can be hard to partake in all of the activities you want when no one in your surroundings seems interested, but Jupiter in Aries traveling through your 11th house of social groups has helped you to strike it out on your own, meeting plenty of new acquaintances that way. Your interest in political activism may have increased, as well, and you may have been meeting people with common values & goals. With Jupiter in Retrograde, however, you may find that tensions and disagreements are already starting to brew. Perhaps, these new friends are already starting to withdraw from your life, showing their true colors or maybe it is you who is getting bored, causing you to engage in reflection on what makes a true friend. When Jupiter re-enters Pisces - your 10th house of career - the focus may shift back to your own goals, your public image, how you want to appear to others. Getting in touch with these things may help you to figure out what types of people you best align with when Jupiter re-enters Aries.

Cancer Rising (or Sun)

You're known to be quite shy, Cancer, but with Jupiter in Aries transiting your 10th house of career, lately, you've been willing to take charge and go after what you want. Maybe you've found your dream job or received a promotion of some kind. However, Jupiter Retrograde is showing you that perhaps such wealth and recognition isn't all it's cracked up to be. Particularly when Jupiter enters Pisces - your 9th house of religion and belief systems - you're realizing that spiritual matters come first. Perhaps, something has happened that is forcing you to make a decision between material success and doing the right thing and perhaps, you are discovering it's best to somehow integrate your belief system into your professional path.

Leo Rising (or Sun)

This should be an exciting time for you, dear Leo! With Jupiter in your 9th house - the house of higher education, long journeys and religion - you might be going to school, traveling, finding faith or in any case, embarking on a journey towards finding the correct path for you, as an individual! However, with Jupiter now Retrograde, you may be realizing that it isn't what you expected. Particularly, when Jupiter re-enters your 8th house of death and debt, a challenge may come your way to test your joy. Perhaps, the loss of money involved in matters such as education and travel has you wondering if it is really worth it. It's also possible that this transit may bring up old wounds, issues and anxieties buried deep within your subconscious, in which case: you are being asked to face the darkness before you can face the light, transforming into a brighter, happier, more joyful you!

Virgo Rising (or Sun)

Jupiter, planet of luck and abundance, has been transiting your 8th house of death and darkness: how to interpret this contradiction? Well, Virgo, you are known to be quite the over-thinker, and Jupiter in Aries may be helping you to come to terms with the stress of daily life and its inevitable losses. In other words, taking a cue from Aries and living in the present-moment may have been helping you to develop and heal. With Jupiter Retrograde, however, you may discover that those old fears and worries are magnified, blown out of proportion. This could cause potentially difficulties in your relationships, but when Jupiter re-enters Pisces - your 7th house - you may discover that revisiting these past issues with your partner, ex partner, close friend or therapist is a necessary step for cultivating a brighter, more freeing future: in the context of both your relationship(s) and your overall mental health.

Libra Rising (or Sun)

You're basically stereotyped as the "relationship sign," Libra, and lucky for you, with Jupiter in your 7th house of partnerships, you may find yourself in the midst of a passionate romance! However, with Jupiter Retrograde, you may be beginning to have doubts. Perhaps, someone from the past has come back to call this new fling into question, or maybe you got carried away and rushed into things too soon. In any case, such doubts may have made you realize the need to put yourself first, instead of being so quick to idealize others. A similar doubtfulness may be plaguing those of you who are in existing relationships, as well: perhaps something has happened to make you question your partner's intentions or lose trust in the relationship's durability. So, when Jupiter re-enters Pisces - your 6th house of health and wellness - there may be a greater focus on your own needs and personal growth. In other words, "working on yourself" will help to increase your faith in love and put in the necessary practical steps for achieving your relationship ideal.

Scorpio Rising (or Sun)

Lately, your routine may have been given a boost, Scorpio. Whether it's working or working-out, Jupiter in your 6th house of health and habits has given you the extra motivation need to go after those goals! Now that Jupiter is Retrograde, however, you may be feeling like you burned yourself out. Is it possible that by putting too much focus into your work or physical wellbeing that you've neglected your mental wellbeing? With Jupiter re-entering Pisces - your 5th house of fun and creativity - you're being called to free your mind and have fun again. By incorporating the things you enjoy into your daily routine, you're being put on a much more holistic path towards wellness.

Sagittarius Rising (or Sun)

Life is just one big adventure for you, Sagittarius, and with your ruling planet, Jupiter transiting your 5th house of fun and creativity, it seems even more exciting than ever! Jupiter in Aries is likely to be a fertile period for you; since the 5th house rules children, some of you may even learn that you're bringing new life into this world, while for others, it may be about engaging in a new hobby; artistic, musical, literary or something else entirely. If you are expecting an actual child, Jupiter Retrograde may have you wondering if you are really ready, and if you've been roaming around, living your life to the fullest, this retrograde period may serve as a reminder to take life just a little bit more seriously. In any case, with Jupiter re-entering Pisces - your 4th house of home and family - you may be learning the importance of setting down roots. A place where you feel comfortable settling down in is a more conducive environment for growth (and this includes both creative growth and the growth of the family!).

Capricorn Rising (or Sun)

You're often known to be quite the workaholic, Capricorn, but with Jupiter in Aries transiting your 4th house, it looks like you've finally got time to relax (or do more work...) at home. Maybe you've been enjoying some quality time with your family or perhaps, your family is even growing! With Jupiter Retrograde, however, you may start feeling like you've become too idle. All this time spent inside may be getting you down. When Jupiter re-enters Pisces - your 3rd house of communication and short travels - you may feel an urge to get back out and explore; go for walks, hanging out with friends, meet new people. A little freedom and space away from family members is likely to improve your relationship with them and the home.

Aquarius Rising (or Sun)

You've probably been feeling even more gregarious than usual, Aquarius! With Jupiter in your 3rd house of communication and short travel, it's likely that you've been out and about and making new connections. Now that Jupiter is Retrograde, however, you may find yourself getting involved in some petty misunderstandings. Perhaps, you find people are taking your words out of context or maybe you're the one whose too quick to make assumptions about other people. With Jupiter re-entering Pisces - your 2nd house of finances - you may cope with these misunderstandings by withdrawing from social life altogether, focusing on your own self-preservation instead. Perhaps, now is a good time to reflect on what you really value, what you really mean to say, and then, maybe you can make yourself more understood. On another note, it is possible that travel plans could go awry or get postponed due to a lack of money.

Pisces Rising (or Sun)

You're often seen as someone with your head in the clouds, dear Pisces; much more attuned with the unseen spiritual realm than with the dreary practicalities of everyday material existence. Your wallet may have increased with Jupiter in your 2nd house of finances, and having these needs met may have brought a boost in joy and/or confidence for many of you. However, with Jupiter now Retrograde, you may be feeling like for some reason, you're still not happy. Maybe this even makes you feel guilty! With Jupiter, your ruling planet, re-entering your sign, you're realizing, once again, that taking care of your spiritual and emotional health is just as important as taking care of your physical body: discover the things that bring you joy.