Pluto turns retrograde in Capricorn from April 16 - September 25

Click here to learn about Pluto. Click here to learn about Capricorn.

To be very clear, planets in retrograde are not actually spinning backwards – it is entirely an optical illusion as seen from Earth. Backwards motion appears to happen when Earth passes slower moving planets in the outer solar system. In astrology, this illusion manifests as “backwards” functioning of the planets and their respective roles. Click here to learn more about retrograde motion.

In classic astrology, Pluto rules fixed water Scorpio. Pluto concerns himself with issues of transformation and rebirth, fear, trust, integrity, destruction, power and control. When we make life-altering decisions, Plutonian energy is present. Pluto represents shift. It is through Pluto that the psyche is symbolically demolished and renewed.

God of the Underworld

Since November 2008, Pluto has been spinning through cardinal earth Capricorn. This transit has so far been, and will only continue to be, extremely potent. Capricorn is the patriarch of the zodiac, ruler of all things structural, institutional and societal. Pluto in Capricorn manifests as a total overhaul of how we live together on Earth. In particular, we can expect to see continued changes in regards to the global economy, governmental institutions and major religions. Pluto in Capricorn exposes rampant hypocrisy, corruption and greed embedded in the framework of our failing systems. Indeed it is undeniable that we must make fundamental changes at the planetary level if we ever want to live in peace and abundance.

The ultimate goal of Pluto in Capricorn is to reorganize society so that we may live in true harmony with the natural cycles of our planet and the greater Universe. Pluto uses extremes in order to highlight the problems that arise when we put blind trust in institutions. The mainstream media reports so regularly on heretofore hidden, quasi-governmental scandals that I daresay we have become desensitized. Pluto in Capricorn: authoritative and hierarchical, though he’s proudly poised, ready at any moment to initiate the fall of the mighty. This dynamic placement delivers reform by shedding light on truths that have long been suppressed, such as the lies of wealthy men clinging to their power - those who were once viewed as mentors and leaders. On that note, we are also encouraged now to examine the great imbalance between masculine and feminine energy on our planet. I am confident that by the end of this transit, we will return to ancient wisdom as a way to protect the Earth and empower her people.

Pluto Rx: what to expect?

Pluto is retrograde about 6 months out of the year. This is an introspective and reflective period in which we are likely to encounter delays in our own transformational journey. Just because the rate of shift will temporarily slow doesn’t mean that these changes will lose intensity. In fact, you can expect quite the opposite. Pluto is ultimately an evolutionary force; when retrograde, his purpose is to clear out blockages that hinder our personal metamorphosis. Change happens more within than externally. When Pluto is direct, he unearths stories in the public sphere, such as political corruption. However, Pluto Rx gets us in touch with our own personal shadows.

Pluto Rx in Capricorn operates at a physical level. Now is the time to (perhaps literally) remodel, reconfigure and restructure. Reworking allows us to heal. Healing allows us to be reborn. This process should not be taken lightly. From astrologer Nadia Gilchrist:

Pluto’s changes will become obvious to everyone (at some point) so make sure you’re doing them right. The consequences of a poorly handled Pluto transit (ignoring or denying the transformations) can manifest as the ruins of your current structures, with nothing to replace them. Scorched earth, no new growth.

This transit immerses us in the underworld of the psyche. Pluto lives and works here, extracting deep grief and fear embedded in the energy body and unconscious memories. Although he is extreme as an entity himself, Pluto is actually here to purge extremes from our own life. To expedite this purge, release and surrender. One more from Nadia Gilchrist:

Working with a Pluto transit just means you have to let go of what’s already being pulled away and allow new growth to flourish. Then tend to that new growth. This retrograde is your chance to be thorough; you’re working with the changes that have already occurred, not making new ones (yet).

Plutonian endings and beginnings are a result of spiritual growth. This planet asks us to understand our true purpose. Nothing slips by Pluto; he is neither superficial nor simple. Plutonian missions are notoriously complex, dark and intimidating. There will be no growth, improvement or maturation until we see the Self as it is, flaws and all. To achieve this, we must have unconditional trust in the karmic process and the Self. Are you unconsciously giving power to entities which do not serve you? Examine your role in your own evolution.

I was born with Pluto retrograde. Those with this disposition may not feel the effects of this period as much, if at all. To find out your Pluto sign and whether he was direct or retrograde at the time of your birth, click here.

If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: change is good