Chiron Retrograde Is An Opportunity For Deep Healing

A lesser-known celestial body to watch if one is metaphysically inclined is the planet-like asteroid or comet known as Chiron, which orbits between the planets Saturn and Uranus. It is named after the wise centaur in Greek mythology who could heal others, but not himself, and is associated with the archetype of the ‘wounded healer.’

Chiron went retrograde recently on July 19^th and its reverse trajectory will last until December 23^rd, 2022. This astrological event will challenge us, as Chiron symbolizes the unhealed pain and unresolved past traumas we still carry within. It represents our deepest, core wound and our efforts to heal that wound. The good news is, despite a retrograde cycle bringing challenge, it also bring opportunity for expansion and growth.

Chiron is currently in the fiery, action-oriented sign of Aries where it will remain until the year 2026. This is a difficult placement, because Chiron is all about deep introspection, delicate shadow work and patiently working towards the healing of old wounds, while Aries has little patience in such matters and just wants to ‘get on with it.’

You may feel tempted to rush into the core of your pain and trauma due to this retrograde, but be sensible instead and take a step back. This retrograde period does offer a powerful opportunity for working on inner healing and forgiveness, but take a measured approach and do not foolishly rush in where angels may fear to tread. Give yourself permission to honor slow, steady processing, healing and growth. Healing is like a seed we plant; it takes time for an acorn to grow into an oak tree.

If you find your temper and emotions flaring, remember to breathe, use mantras, and positively visualize your outcome. New growth takes place after a wildfire (Aries) and this is an excellent time to start anew, while overcoming old traumas.

Chiron is our core wound and it is also that which we heal for others, but often struggle to mend in ourselves ~ Lisa Stardust

If you are an Aries or one of the other fire signs (Leo and Sagittarius), the healing work you need to do may be especially challenging. Primal scream therapy or friendly sparring matches might be good options for you at this time. If you are one of the emotional water (Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces) or earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn), a less aggressive approach such as journaling, dreamwork or guided meditation may be more your style. And if you are an air sign (Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius) then a more rational approach to these problems through traditional psychotherapy or self-analysis may be more constructive. Do what you personally feel most comfortable with.

Aries is the first sign in the zodiac and represents birth, infancy, and childhood, therefore it offers the ideal energetic influence during this Chiron retrograde to get back in touch with the wounded inner child. Aries is also a sign of the self and the ego, which provides additional opportunity for personal reconciliation and emotional housecleaning. We can never truly forgive others without first forgiving ourselves. What have you been keeping bottled up? Aries is also a sign of boldness and decisive action. If there is something or someone you need to confront, you might find you finally have the courage now to do it.

The best way to deal with that Aries impatience is to lean into the brave, gung-ho, fearless side of the sign while doing your best to slow down and take this chance to heal one step at a time ~ Maressa Brown

The Chiron retrograde is especially challenging due to its long duration and particular placement in such a passionate sign of the zodiac. You are worth fighting for, and your inner child deserves to be whole and happy. From now until late December, find the courage within yourself to confront past demons and become the best version of yourself.

If it seems scary, embrace your inner Aries (the ram) and charge forward fearlessly. Just as Chiron will once more move forward after a time, you too will move forward mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.