Can the Moon Be in Retrograde? Plus Simple New Moon Rituals

September 2, 2026

One of the most common moon questions is whether the moon can be in retrograde — and the short answer is no. The moon never goes retrograde; it always moves in the same direction relative to Earth. What people usually mean is a planet in retrograde (like Mercury) or simply the moon’s phases, which are a lovely, low-pressure way to keep a rhythm.

Here is the plain version, plus simple new moon rituals you can actually finish in one evening.

Does the Moon Go Retrograde?

No. Retrograde describes the apparent backward motion of planets from our view on Earth. The moon does not do this. If someone mentions the moon and retrograde together, they usually mean a planet is retrograde during a particular moon phase, or they are thinking of the moon’s changing phases.

Working With the New Moon

The new moon is traditionally a time for setting one clear intention — a fresh page. It pairs naturally with beginnings, which is why so many people use it to start something small and specific.

A Simple New Moon Ritual

• Write one intention in the present tense — just one, not ten.
• Sit quietly with it for a few minutes.
• Keep it somewhere you will see it over the coming weeks.
• Take one small matching action within a day or two.

What to Do on a New Moon (and What Not To)

Keep it simple and kind to yourself. One candle, one page, one honest sentence is plenty. There is no need for elaborate tools, and there is no wrong way to do it if the intention is sincere.

We host New Moon Circles and carry simple ritual supplies in store. Dates are on our site — Utopia Wellness & Gifts, 1826 Lonsdale Ave, North Vancouver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the moon be in retrograde?

No. The moon never goes retrograde. Retrograde describes the apparent backward motion of planets like Mercury. People often mean a planet is retrograde during a moon phase, or simply the moon’s phases.

What should I do on a new moon?

The new moon suits setting one clear intention. Write it down, keep it visible, and take one small matching action within a day or two.

Do I have to follow the exact new moon date?

The night of the new moon or the closest evening you can keep is fine. Consistency matters more than perfect timing.

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