On May 23, Saturn entered its retrograde phase, which will last until October 11, 2021. Saturn’s retrograde motion will encourage a return to our past experiences, rethinking, mistake analysis, and deceleration. Retrograde Saturn has an impact on global, large-scale processes. The period of Saturn retrograde will affect social life, business, government institutions, and the functioning of large companies. Saturn Retrograde often provokes a reorganization of structures, orders, rules, and a rethinking of goals and strategies.

In this article, I will share with you how Saturn retrograde will affect us, what karmic lessons this period can activate, and how we can soften the impact of this period on our lives.

Saturn Retrograde: What Does It Mean?

Like any other retrograde period, this is the time when Saturn is moving backward. Of course, the planet isn’t actually moving backward! It’s just that Earth’s position relative to Saturn makes the planet look like it’s moving backward. From an astrological point of view, this is an important event, since retrograde periods bring lessons and challenges in the spheres that the planet controls. In the case of Saturn, the lessons it brings are usually associated with our inner self, wisdom, responsibility, and discipline.

Saturn In Vedic Astrology

In Vedic astrology, Saturn is ‘Lord of Karma’ and time. As ‘Lord of Karma’, he is often the most feared of planets. However, it doesn’t punish you for your bad actions, but rather gives you the ‘harvest’ from the ‘seeds’ you planted yourself. If you planted the seeds of love, compassion, self-discipline, spiritual dedication, then you will reap only positive results of such actions. But if you planted the seeds of judgment, anger, cruelty, addiction to pleasure, and material possessions, then you will reap the negative consequences of such actions. Saturn always makes sure that we reap what we sow.

Shani (Saturn) is considered the greatest of teachers. His methods are not particularly gentle, but they teach discipline, restraint, concentration, and economy. Saturn teaches us to follow traditions and take responsibility for our actions. He is responsible for introversion, focus, truth, work, limitations, organization, democracy, fairness, and asceticism.

What To Expect From Saturn Retrograde 2021?

Saturn retrograde period started on May 23 and will last until October 11. During this period, Saturn will draw attention to such areas as work, career, and, in general, the scope of your activity. During this period, karmic situations are activated that require patience and the right focus. Instead of feeling frustrated that things are not going the way you want, look at challenging situations from a karmic lesson perspective. Remind yourself that you might be paying a karmic debt or learning a karmic lesson. Take any challenges with gratitude.

Saturn, as a planet responsible for living practical experience, helps us to accumulate the necessary knowledge and skills for the formation of our personality and teaches us to realize our life goals in the best possible way.

There may be tension in relations with elderly relatives or superiors, government officials during this retrograde period.

Three Things To Keep In Mind

In order to spend the period of Saturn retrograde as harmoniously as possible, you need to remember the following:

#1: Saturn retrograde teaches us responsibility, perseverance, restraint, compliance with the rules, seriousness, and control

Therefore, during this time, it is favorable:

• take on what you have been putting off for a long time and bring it to the end;
• review your plans and adjust them;
• to sum up the results;
• develop self-discipline;
• fast or eat only vegan food on Saturdays;
• think through everything to the smallest detail before taking action.

#2: Be prepared for the fact that you will be thrown from one extreme to another

Therefore, try to analyze your behavior and things that trigger your emotions. Many people may experience anxiety, worries, fears, pessimism during Saturn retrograde. Pay attention to your emotions and learn to control them! Daily meditations and pranayama will help you to balance your mood and emotions.

#3: Pay attention to your health

Problems can be associated with exhaustion of the body. Therefore, it’s important to be mindful of your capabilities and do not overwork. Also, pay attention to your stress levels. If you feel tired, make sure you take time to recharge yourself in nature, meditate, and do breathing exercises.

How Will Saturn Retrograde Affect Our Health?

During this period, there may be an imbalance of Vata dosha (dry skin, allergic reactions, dry joints, respiratory problems). People may experience the following health problems provoked by Saturn:

• Injuries to the knee joints
• Increased acidity
• Skin diseases
• Dental problems
• Respiratory system problems
• Herpes
• Problems with blood vessels

People who are prone to arthritis should take precautions, as, during the retrograde period, a chronic inflammatory process is possible. The same recommendations are relevant for chronic diseases of the liver and gallbladder.

Saturn in Shravan Nakshatra

During this retrograde, Saturn is in Shravan Nakshatra which is a highly karmic position that usually causes pain, suffering, and turmoil in the world. Saturn’s retrograde effect in Shravan nakshatra intensifies and also takes more time to get over with.

If you look at the world events of the past, whenever Saturn was in Shravan nakshatra, there were problems at the national and global levels. There have been several wars, economic collapses, deaths of kings/rulers, deaths of large numbers of people, distress, and general instability. And now we will be feeling the influence of Shravan nakshatra until February 18th, 2022.

This nakshatra may force us to focus more on material aspects of life more than on our spiritual development. Material matters may become a priority for most people so that they may forget the true spiritual purpose in this life.

The lesson here is to remind yourself that material stability is important but we should always remember to influence everything we do with the spiritual beliefs and principles we follow in life. The goal here is to find a perfect balance between your material and spiritual life.

Recommendations For Saturn Retrograde 2021

#1: Refrain From Drinking Alcohol

Alcohol is not only bad for your health but also angers Shani Dev (Lord of Karma/Saturn). Therefore, it’s essential to refrain from drinking alcohol during the retrograde period, especially on Saturdays and Tuesdays. Also, avoid smoking and using any kinds of drugs or plants that affect your consciousness. All these habits add to your negative karma.

#2: Wear Black on Saturdays

On Saturdays, it is recommended to wear black or dark clothes.

#3: Chant Mantras

There are two mantras that are recommended to be chanted during the Saturn Retrograde period. You can choose one that you resonate with the most or chant both of them. Chant these mantras on Saturdays 108 times.

Mantra #1: “OM SHAM SHANICHARAYA NAMAHA”

Mantra “OM SHANTI OM”

Conclusion

Though this Saturn retrograde may seem like a challenging time for many, try to keep your focus on positive things. Observe the world events with a peaceful mind and trust the process. Remember that Saturn encourages humility, patience, the ability to wait, contemplation, a willingness to accept any outcome of the situation, asceticism, and modesty. Nurturing these qualities within yourself will help you to live the period of Saturn retrograde in harmony and reap the positive benefits from the seeds you sowed.

The first Solar Eclipse of the year comes to us on June 10th, 2021 in the form of the new moon. New moon eclipses are known for bringing sudden new beginnings and unexpected news. This annular solar eclipse also puts on a rare and dazzling show in the eastern sky, as the sun will form a glowing “ring of fire” around the moon. This powerful lunar reset is heralding some major changes and opportunities in our lives.

In this article, I will share with you what to expect from the first Solar eclipse 2021 and what you can do to soften its effect on your life.

Solar Eclipse 2021

Solar eclipse 2021 will be visible from parts of northeast Canada, Greenland, the Arctic ocean (passing over the North Pole), and the Russian Far East. The partial eclipse will appear from a region thousands of kilometers wide, which includes northern and eastern North America, most of Europe, and northern Asia.

Eclipsing is expected to begin at about 5:24 am EST when the Moon passes in front of the Sun’s glowing face. The moment of greatest coverage will peak at about 5:32 am EST.

Unlike a total eclipse, the Moon will only blot out the central portion of the Sun, leaving a fiery halo lighting up its edges.

The whole affair is expected to last more than an hour and it will wrap up by 6:30 am EST.

How Will the Solar Eclipse Affect Us?

According to Vedic astrology, a Solar eclipse always occurs at the new moon, when the lunar node of Rahu (or Ketu) is located close to the Sun (up to 12 degrees). Thus, when a Solar eclipse occurs, Rahu passes between the Sun and the Moon. It is because of the influence of Rahu that Vedic astrologers do not recommend looking at the Solar eclipse. The fact is that Rahu, mixing with the energy of the Sun, affects our subconscious and imprints negative thoughtforms in it, under the influence of which we may unconsciously become involved in a chain of adverse events.

In addition, it is important to know that at the moment of the eclipse, our thoughts and desires are tracked. The most negative of our thoughts and the most selfish of our desires are transmitted to the cosmos and very quickly grasped by Rahu. Thus, in the future, these thoughts and desires will be materialized, and we will bear karmic responsibility for this. Therefore, at the moment of the eclipse, it is important to keep track of our thoughts, desires, and actions. It is best to focus on spiritual practices, reading sacred texts, chanting mantras, and praying.
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The part of the Earth where the eclipse is visible falls under the influence of Rahu. This means that in these territories, unfavorable events may occur and the karmic lessons that Rahu brings will be activated.

The Sun represents the vital energy – prana. It controls immunity, intelligence, activity, and digestion. In physiology, the Sun represents the structure of the thalamus and the nucleus of each cell.

During an eclipse, Rahu overrides all the benevolent qualities of the Sun. Therefore, during the eclipse (as well as a few days before and after the eclipse), people may experience a decline in strength, poor health, bad digestion, and problems with the cardiovascular system. Rahu tends to obscure consciousness, so people can find themselves in mental states that are not typical for them: there may be more stress, distraction, unfounded experiences, anxiety, negative thoughts, and conflicts.

During the Solar eclipse (as well as a few days before and after the eclipse), the key characteristics of the Sun will suffer: self-confidence, identity, self-expression, leadership, personal strength. Many people will feel doubts about their own value and the significance of their efforts, frustration, and dissatisfaction. Others, on the contrary, may feel the overactivity of their ego and will have a tendency to overestimate their capabilities.

The sun represents human vitality, health, joy, and optimism. Therefore, during the eclipse, you may feel weak and discouraged, digestive problems may arise. In order to minimize the negative impact of the eclipse, it is best to avoid things that consume a lot of energy. Try to spend this day in solitude, away from crowded places.

The nakshatra of the eclipse is Mrigashira. Mrigashira nakshatra is associated with movement and search. This nakshatra will tempt us to choose a new direction and abandon old goals. Try not to get involved in such thoughts and doubts. The eclipse in Mrigashira nakshatra can create obstacles and difficulties in movement, so it is better to refrain from traveling for 10 days before and after the eclipse.

Dos For This Eclipse

#1: Fasting

Vedic astrologers suggest to fast at least 12 hours before the Solar eclipse. There is an exception for people with health problems, elderly people, and kids – these categories of people may not fast but should at least refrain from food during the exact eclipse time.

The period of 12 hours before the solar eclipse is considered an inauspicious time before the eclipse. Therefore, refraining from eating anything during this time is considered to be beneficial.

#2: Charity

Any charity and donations during the eclipse time are considered to be auspicious and help to purify your karma.

#3: Bath

Taking a bath / a shower during the eclipse helps to cleanse your aura and get rid of any negative energy accumulated in your energy bodies.

#4: Yoga & Meditation

Practicing yoga or/and meditation during the eclipse period will help you to develop mental strength and soften the influence of the negative effect of the eclipse.

#5: Mantra

Mantra for Solar Eclipse:

OM
Bhaskaraya Vidmahe
Mahadyutikaraya Dhimahi
Tanno Adityah Pracodayat

OM
Asvadhvajaya Vidmahe
Padmahastaya dhimahi
Tannah Suryah Pracodayat

Japakusuma Sankasam
Kasyapeyam mahadyutim
Tamorim Sarva papaghnam
Pranatosmi Divakaram

Don’ts For This Solar Eclipse

• Don’t look at the eclipse!!!
• Avoid traveling, and if possible, do not leave your home during the eclipse period.
• Avoid eating and cooking any meal until the eclipse ends.
• Avoid combing your hair, brushing your teeth, washing clothes, etc.
• Sleeping should also be avoided during the eclipse.
• Don’t plan anything important on the day of the eclipse.
• If possible, try to avoid any meetings on this day.
• Avoid taking risky steps, being exposed to the excitement, making large spontaneous purchases or investments, taking loans.
• Don’t initiate a divorce, legal proceedings, or disputes over the property during the eclipse period.
• Avoid talking badly or gossiping about someone.
• Avoid any kind of violence: verbal, psychological, or physical.

The Bottom Line

Vedic astrologers recommend not to look at the solar eclipse. At this time, it is better to be at home, close the windows and curtains. Do not consume any food or drink during the eclipse. After the eclipse, it is advisable to take a shower or bath, or at least rinse your hands and wash your face. Be careful with your desires during the eclipse period. During this period, any spontaneous actions can create problems. Maintain your awareness and try to keep your focus on spirituality during the eclipse. This will help you to get into resonance with the cosmic energies and align yourself with the higher forces of the universe. Remember that spirituality is the best protection against any temptations of the ego and negative astrological events.

Starting on May 29 and lasting until June 22, the Mercury’s backward dance in Gemini is going to mess with our communication, uncover secrets, and send us into a glitch-filled frenzy. And this is going to be the most potent Mercury retrograde of 2021. This period is going to be filled with the classic Mercury retrograde mess-ups to worry about: travel, communication, technology, and information. But also, we should remember that it’s happening in impulsive Gemini, which is ruled by Mercury, meaning that the planet is most comfortable in this sign. Therefore, this will allow Mercury to reach its full-on trickster splendor – so many people will fall victim to its ‘jokes’. Moreover, this Mercury retrograde is happening right in the midst of eclipse season and forming a conjunction with the new moon eclipse that’s happening on June 10, magnifying its power even more.

In this article, we will share with you some important information about this period and some tips to make Mercury retrograde a harmonious time for you.

What Is Mercury Retrograde?

Retrograde is a special type of movement of the planet, when from the Earth it seems to us that it’s going backward, although the planet simply changes direction relative to the Sun. All planets periodically become retrograde. For some, it happens every few months or every few years. But Mercury is usually the record holder in this “marathon”: a retrograde period occurs on average 3-4 times a year.

Mercury is the only planet whose retrograde effect is felt by most people on Earth. It is believed that during the retrograde period, Mercury has a detrimental effect on people, but if you properly use the energy of this period, you can benefit from it.

Mercury is the planet of contacts, contracts, information, intellectual activity, communication, and commerce. It is associated with travel and transport, negotiations, training, and signing documents. Mercury is responsible for memory, speech, oratory, logic, and intelligence. Therefore, its retrograde movement may negatively affect all the above.

You may feel this retrograde period in different ways, here are some of its effects:

• exposed secrets;
• arisen scandals;
• frequent anxiety;
• gatherings are prone to turning into gossiping;
• restlessness;
• misunderstandings within relationships;
• delays;
• obstacles;
• mistakes, etc.

What Zodiac Signs Will Be Affected the Most?

Because the retrograde is happening in mutable Gemini, the other mutable signs will feel this particular period the most.

• Virgos (mutable earth): will feel it in their 10th house of career.
• Sagittarians (mutable earth): will feel the effect in their 7th house of partnership.
• Pisces (mutable earth): will feel it in their 4th house of home life.

Geminis will find this Mercury retrograde especially intense, but Geminis and Virgos generally feel all Mercury retrogrades more acutely than others. That’s because both signs are ruled by Mercury.

The Dos During Mercury Retrograde

So, in the period of Mercury retrograde, the following actions will be favorable:-

#1: Finish things

If you want something new to happen in your life, make room for it, finish things before moving forward. Think about how many things you need to finish, delegate, or get rid of before you can move on and bring new relationships, abundance, and wealth into your life. This period is perfect for finishing old relationships, getting rid of toxic people, sorting out your feelings and emotions. You can also quit your old job.

#2: Deal with unfinished and running projects and documents

You can finish the article, or finish the book you’re working on. It is good to restore order, throw away all unnecessary papers, archives, and media.

#3: Meet with friends

This is a good time to meet with friends and family members you haven’t seen in a long time.

#4: Analyze your mental attitudes

Pay attention to how your thoughts and attitude shape your reality. Think about – what thoughts you can let go of to improve your life? Are there any mental programs, blocks, or stereotypes that prevent you from reaching your goals? Well, now it’s the perfect time to let them go.

#5: Engage in spiritual practice

This is the time when we all need to focus more on our spiritual sides. Meditate, purify and calm your mind, chant mantras, pray and work with positive affirmations.

The Don’ts During Mercury Retrograde

During periods of retrograde, all Mercurian affairs develop slowly, there is often confusion, the risk of mistakes increases. New projects are slowed down, transport, and mail services are disrupted. It is more difficult to study and engage in intellectual work, to conduct negotiations. During such periods, equipment breaks down more often, and communication operators have problems with their work. Therefore, take note of what is still better not to do in this period to avoid trouble:-

#1: Making purchases

Especially it is better not to make any big purchases, because later you may be disappointed. For example, you may find hidden defects in the things you buy.

#2: Signing contracts, making transactions, opening a business, and starting a project

During Mercury retrograde, there is a very high probability of making mistakes.

#3: Getting a new job

Those getting new jobs during the retrograde period are usually disappointed with their jobs later. You may not be satisfied with the conditions, some additional information may be open some disadvantages or difficulties the job has, etc.

#4: Making important decisions

Later you most likely will regret about such decisions. They may bring you more troubles than satisfactions.

#5: Starting a training or course

If you start a training or take a course during the retrograde period, the study will be very difficult or the knowledge gained will not be useful.

#6: Making big purchases

Anything you buy during Mercury retrograde has a chance to disappoint you in some way. Don’t buy real estate, cars, or anything that requires big money being paid. Most likely, such purchases will not be useful, or will be unnecessary in the future, or will break down.

#7: Borrowing money

It will be almost impossible to return the money back.

#8: Starting a new relationship

Relationships started during retrograde period will not be long-lasting and will not become serious.

#9: Moving, buying real estate, signing the rent

Any operations with real estate will face delays and obstacles.

Spiritual Tools For Mercury Retrograde

#1: Mercury Mantra

To neutralize the negative influence of Mercury retrograde on your life, chant the Mercury mantra 108 times daily:

Om Namo Bhagvate Vasudevaya Namah

Chanting this powerful mantra gives:

• invincible self-confidence;
• astonishing concentration power;
• laudable intelligence;
• commendable communication;
• business skills;
• calmness and peace;
• wisdom;
• knowledge;
• enlightenment.

#2: Gemstones

To pacify the effect of Mercury retrograde, you can wear gemstones throughout this period.

Emerald is Mercury’s primary gem! It is the closest in representing Mercury through its crystalline structure that helps distribute Mercury’s cosmic rays that the planet emanates. Wearing emerald can help balance the influence of the planet and re-establish balance and harmony in your energetic field and mitigate difficulties cause by the retrograde period.

Jade can be used as a valid substitute for emerald when working with Mercury gems.

Peridot can be used to strengthen relationship and connections. This stone pacifies retrograde Mercury and balances your life. It can be worn for health in general and to increase wealth and happiness in life.

Aventurine is connected to Mercury and known as a lucky stone. It is great for overall health and well-being. Aventurine can be used to regulate pitta dosha in Ayurveda and is connected to Anahata Chakra.

#3: Yantra

Mercury Yantra (also called Buddha Yantra) helps to decrease the negative impacts of Mercury. This yantra also:

• helps to boost intellect;
• improves studying abilities;
• helps in personal development;
• improves memory;
• helps to develop oratory and communicative abilities;
• attracts success;
• improves the financial situation, etc.

Display the Buddha Yantra in the North sector of your house and chant the Mercury mantra 108 times while looking in the center of the Yantra. Perform this practice daily or, at least, every Wednesday.

The Bottom Line

Mercury retrograde period is part of the natural cycle intended to be a time of reflecting and re-doing things that need our attention. This is the time to slow down and relax. In our fast-paced world, it can feel like a punishment but, truthfully, it can be a blessing. The retrograde offers us an opportunity to tidy up, chill out, and get crystal clear on exactly what we need to do to further align with our highest purpose.