Uranus Retrograde in Aries 2017: Control Your Impulses

In astrology the planet Uranus is a symbol for “the awakener,” “the maverick,” and “the trickster.” Even the actual planet itself rotates vertically instead of horizontally, adding to its eccentric reputation. The function of Uranus in astrology is to shake things up, redefine structures, and rebel against the status quo. Now that it’s turned retrograde it’s time for us to collectively turn that energy inward.

All the planets (except the Sun and Moon) appear to go retrograde at various times throughout the year. This is the universe’s way of giving us all an opportunity to integrate the function of those particular energies into our lives.

On August 3, impulsive Uranus in Aries turns retrograde at 28° Aries until January 2, 2018 at 24° Aries, creating several shockwaves. You might feel your desires shifting over the coming months, but that doesn’t mean you have to act on them immediately.

With Uranus in retrograde motion until early January we’re all being challenged to look within and find that spark of genius, uncover new insight, and overturn structures that may be limiting us.

This retrograde occurs while under Jupiter square Pluto’s spell, so passion could be explosive. Expressing yourself is always important, but choosing your approach is critical. Contemplate your motivation before acting out. Do you really just want to express yourself or are you finding restrictive?

Your need for independence might come with a high price if you act impulsively. One thing Uranus in Aries can’t stand is being limited by others. You’ll want freedom to make your own choices — and that might mean breaking relationship patterns.

Retrogrades encourage reviewing things in your life, so give yourself time to rethink the choices you’re contemplating. Once you act, you can’t take it back.

And remember, Uranus loves anything unconventional, so rather than making a rash decision, see if there’s a way to turn a traditional situation into something unique. Unusual choices and authentic situations are what Uranus supports, so don’t be shy about breaking rules now.

Here are five questions to consider over the coming months to help you awaken within:

1. Where are you getting your inspiration?
   

   “We should be taught not to wait for inspiration to start a thing. Action always generates inspiration. Inspiration seldom generates action.” -Frank Tibolt.

   If you’re watching six hours of reality TV a week it may be time to turn off the boob-tube and listen for what your mind is really craving. When was the last time you went to the museum? Read something other than your preferred genre? Inspiration enlivens us and feeds our soul. Where do you get yours?

2. When is the last time you surprised yourself?
   

   “One of the greatest discoveries a man makes, one of his great surprises, is to find he can do what he was afraid he couldn’t do.” -Henry Ford.

   We all like to play it safe- it protects our ego. But unless we stretch ourselves from time to time we risk becoming to static, stiff, and stale. Say something unconventional, be brazenly engaged in life, or push yourself past a self-limiting behavior.

3. What needs to be different in order for you to grow?
   

   “Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” -Albert Einstein.

   Even plants need to be repotted in order to keep growing. All of us have of one or two things (or seven or eight) in our lives that are out-dated, old-fashioned, and worn out. Is it a relationship? A job? A wardrobe? If you haven’t seen any personal growth over the past six months maybe it’s time to find out why.

4. How often do you change your mind?
   

   “A fanatic is one who can’t change his mind and won’t change the subject.” -Sir Winston Churchill.

   Ideas and opinions are like underwear- they should be changed often. Reconsider your beliefs- about yourself, the world, or God. Why assume the conclusions you drew last year are still valid? Give yourself permission to rethink where you stand on important issues. Do some research. Be open.

5. How much freedom do you give yourself?
   

   “To be pleased with one’s limits is a wretched state.” -Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

   I believe we all condition ourselves to live, think, act, and love within a relatively small space. The world is big and the power of our minds and imagination is even bigger. How much freedom do you really give yourself? Consider giving yourself more. Assume there are no limitations. Look for endless possibilities. Act accordingly.

Uranus will be retrograding from 28 degrees of Aries back to 24 degrees of Aries. If you know where that falls in your natal chart then you’ll have a better idea of where your awakening needs to take place. For example, if you have these degrees of Aries in your fifth house then you should focus on creative aspects of your life. If Uranus is retrograding through your tenth house then reflect on how you can awaken in your career.

“If every day is an awakening, you will never grow old. You will just keep growing.” -Gail Sheehy

Last updated on December 4, 2017 at 2:26 am. Word Count: 859