{"id":5895,"date":"2026-10-14T04:12:15","date_gmt":"2026-10-14T04:12:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nikkisilk.com.au\/shop\/?page_id=5895"},"modified":"2026-10-14T05:17:03","modified_gmt":"2026-10-14T05:17:03","slug":"planetary-retrogrades-explained","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/nikkisilk.com.au\/shop\/planetary-retrogrades-explained\/","title":{"rendered":"PLANETARY RETROGRADES EXPLAINED"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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What Happens When Each Planet Goes Retrograde and How This Can Affect You<\/em><\/span><\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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Ever wondered what actually happens when a planet goes retrograde and how it might affect your life?<\/p>\n

While Mercury Retrograde gets most of the attention, every planet has its own retrograde cycle, each associated with different areas of our lives, including relationships, communication, finances, career, personal growth and spiritual awakening.<\/p>\n

When a planet goes retrograde, it doesn’t physically reverse direction. Instead, it appears to move backwards through the sky when observed from Earth. In astrology, this apparent backward movement is believed to shift the planet’s energy inward, encouraging reflection, reassessment and a closer look at the areas of life it represents.<\/p>\n

Although retrogrades have earned a reputation for causing chaos, they’re not necessarily something to fear! Astrologically, they’re considered valuable opportunities to revisit unresolved situations, recognise outdated patterns, gain greater clarity and make positive changes that support your personal and spiritual growth.<\/p>\n

Each planetary retrograde brings its own unique themes, challenges and opportunities for transformation. Some encourage us to reconsider relationships and financial priorities, while others highlight communication, personal boundaries, ambitions, emotional healing or the need for greater independence.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover what happens when each planet goes retrograde, how often these retrogrades occur, how their astrological influences may affect different areas of your life and the important lessons associated with each one. You’ll also learn how to navigate these periods with greater awareness, confidence and a deeper understanding of planetary energies.<\/p>\n

These interpretations are based on astrological traditions and spiritual beliefs rather than scientifically established effects on our everyday lives.<\/p>\n

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MERCURY RETROGRADE<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Communication, Technology, Travel & Thinking<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Mercury governs communication, thinking, learning, information, technology and travel. When Mercury goes retrograde, these areas are believed to become more susceptible to confusion, delays and misunderstandings.<\/p>\n

During this period, conversations may be misinterpreted, important details overlooked and communication between people more complicated than usual. Emails, messages and documents may require extra attention, while technology issues, scheduling conflicts or travel disruptions can become sources of frustration.<\/p>\n

Mercury Retrograde is also associated with the resurfacing of unfinished business. Old friends, former romantic partners or people from your past may reappear, bringing opportunities to revisit unresolved conversations or gain closure.<\/p>\n

Mentally, you may find yourself questioning decisions, reconsidering plans or reflecting on situations you previously thought were settled. While this can feel frustrating, it’s traditionally considered a valuable opportunity to recognise mistakes, clarify misunderstandings and approach situations with a fresh perspective.<\/p>\n

How This May Affect You…<\/b><\/p>\n

You may experience communication difficulties, delays or a greater need to revisit previous decisions. Rather than rushing forward, this period encourages patience, careful planning and paying attention to details that might otherwise be overlooked.<\/p>\n

What To Focus On…<\/b><\/p>\n

Review important documents, confirm arrangements, back up digital information, communicate clearly and take your time with major decisions. Revisit unfinished projects and resolve misunderstandings where possible.<\/p>\n

Key Lesson:\u00a0Communicate clearly, practise patience and think before you act.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

VENUS RETROGRADE<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Love, Relationships, Money & Self-Worth<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Venus governs love, romance, relationships, beauty, pleasure, personal values and financial priorities. During Venus Retrograde, these areas are believed to undergo a period of reassessment, encouraging deeper reflection on what truly brings happiness and fulfilment.<\/p>\n

Romantic relationships may come under scrutiny as unresolved emotions, recurring disagreements or unmet needs become more apparent. You may begin questioning whether a relationship aligns with your values, whether your emotional needs are being met or whether certain patterns need to change.<\/p>\n

Past romantic connections may resurface, either through direct contact or memories that encourage you to reflect on previous experiences. This doesn’t necessarily indicate that a past relationship should be rekindled. Instead, it may highlight lessons surrounding love, boundaries and emotional growth.<\/p>\n

Venus Retrograde also brings attention to self-worth and financial decisions. You may reconsider spending habits, question purchases or recognise where you’ve been placing too much importance on material possessions, appearances or external validation.<\/p>\n

How This May Affect You…<\/b><\/p>\n

You may become more sensitive to relationship dynamics, question your romantic choices or recognise areas where you’ve compromised your personal values. Financial priorities and feelings surrounding self-worth may also become more prominent.<\/p>\n

What To Focus On…<\/b><\/p>\n

Reflect on your relationships, establish healthy emotional boundaries, review financial habits and consider what genuinely contributes to your happiness. Practise self-love and avoid making impulsive decisions based solely on temporary emotions.<\/p>\n

Key Lesson: Recognise your worth, reassess your priorities and choose relationships that align with your values.<\/em><\/p>\n

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MARS RETROGRADE<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Motivation, Ambition, Anger & Action<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Mars governs motivation, ambition, determination, physical energy, assertiveness, anger and the drive to take action. When Mars goes retrograde, its normally direct and action-oriented energy is traditionally believed to become more internalised.<\/p>\n

During this period, you may feel less motivated, struggle to make progress or experience frustration when plans don’t unfold as expected. Goals that once seemed exciting may suddenly feel exhausting, while obstacles or delays can challenge your patience.<\/p>\n

Mars Retrograde is also associated with unresolved anger, resentment and conflict. Feelings that have been suppressed may become more noticeable, encouraging you to examine how you respond to frustration, confrontation and situations outside your control.<\/p>\n

Rather than pushing harder to achieve results, this period encourages reassessing your ambitions and recognising whether your actions genuinely support your long-term goals.<\/p>\n

It can also highlight where you’re overextending yourself, wasting energy on unnecessary conflict or pursuing something that no longer feels worthwhile.<\/p>\n

How This May Affect You…<\/b><\/p>\n

You may experience reduced motivation, impatience, frustration or difficulties maintaining momentum. Old disagreements may resurface, while personal ambitions and priorities may require reconsideration.<\/p>\n

What To Focus On…<\/b><\/p>\n

Review your goals, manage stress, address unresolved frustrations and establish healthier ways to express anger. Conserve your energy, avoid unnecessary confrontation and reconsider strategies that aren’t producing the results you want.<\/p>\n

Key Lesson: Manage your energy wisely, address frustration constructively and think before taking action.<\/em><\/p>\n

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JUPITER RETROGRADE<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Abundance, Growth, Opportunities & Beliefs<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Jupiter governs expansion, abundance, prosperity, optimism, wisdom, higher learning and spiritual beliefs. It’s traditionally associated with opportunities, personal development and the pursuit of greater fulfilment.<\/p>\n

When Jupiter goes retrograde, the focus symbolically shifts from external expansion towards internal growth. Rather than constantly seeking new opportunities, achievements or material success, this period encourages examining what abundance and prosperity genuinely mean to you.<\/p>\n

You may begin questioning your ambitions, financial goals, career direction or long-held beliefs about success. Opportunities that previously seemed appealing may require closer examination, while personal goals may need adjusting to better reflect your values.<\/p>\n

Jupiter Retrograde is also associated with philosophical and spiritual reflection. You may feel drawn to explore different perspectives, question established beliefs or deepen your understanding of your personal purpose.<\/p>\n

This period isn’t traditionally considered a time when abundance disappears. Instead, it’s an opportunity to reconsider how you recognise, attract and create meaningful opportunities.<\/p>\n

How This May Affect You…<\/b><\/p>\n

You may question your definition of success, reconsider financial ambitions or feel drawn towards personal and spiritual development. Your priorities may shift as you recognise that fulfilment involves more than external achievements.<\/p>\n

What To Focus On…<\/b><\/p>\n

Review long-term goals, reassess financial priorities, explore educational opportunities and examine beliefs that may be limiting your growth. Focus on gratitude, personal development and creating opportunities aligned with your values.<\/p>\n

Key Lesson: Reassess what abundance and success mean to you, and focus on growth from within.<\/em><\/p>\n

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SATURN RETROGRADE<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Responsibility, Discipline, Boundaries & Life Lessons<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Saturn governs responsibility, discipline, structure, boundaries, commitment and long-term achievements. In astrology, it’s often referred to as the planet of life lessons because of its association with accountability, maturity and personal development.<\/p>\n

During Saturn Retrograde, unfinished responsibilities, recurring behavioural patterns and unresolved commitments may become more noticeable.<\/p>\n

You may begin recognising where you’ve avoided difficult decisions, neglected obligations or allowed unhealthy habits to continue. Situations involving work, relationships, finances or personal responsibilities may require greater attention.<\/p>\n

Saturn Retrograde is also associated with reviewing personal boundaries. You may question whether you’re taking on too much responsibility, allowing others to overstep your limits or failing to hold yourself accountable for important commitments.<\/p>\n

While this period can feel demanding, its astrological purpose is traditionally connected with building stronger foundations through greater self-awareness, discipline and practical action.<\/p>\n

It’s not necessarily about punishment or hardship, but recognising where personal growth requires responsibility and lasting change.<\/p>\n

How This May Affect You…<\/b><\/p>\n

You may feel increased pressure to address unfinished business, reassess commitments or confront recurring patterns. Responsibilities that have been overlooked may require attention, while personal boundaries may need strengthening.<\/p>\n

What To Focus On…<\/b><\/p>\n

Address outstanding obligations, review long-term plans, establish realistic boundaries and develop healthier routines. Take responsibility for your decisions and focus on building sustainable foundations for the future.<\/p>\n

Key Lesson: Take responsibility, establish healthy boundaries and build stronger foundations for your future.<\/em><\/p>\n

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URANUS RETROGRADE<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Change, Freedom, Independence & Awakening<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Uranus governs change, innovation, individuality, independence, rebellion and unexpected developments. It’s associated with breaking away from outdated structures and embracing new ways of thinking.<\/p>\n

When Uranus goes retrograde, its symbolism shifts towards internal transformation rather than sudden external disruption.<\/p>\n

During this period, you may begin questioning routines, beliefs, relationships or circumstances that once felt comfortable but now seem restrictive. A growing desire for independence may encourage you to reconsider how much freedom you have to express your individuality.<\/p>\n

Uranus Retrograde can also be associated with personal awakenings and shifts in perspective. You may recognise that certain expectations, traditions or habits no longer reflect the person you’re becoming.<\/p>\n

Rather than making impulsive changes, this period encourages understanding why change feels necessary and identifying what genuine freedom means to you.<\/p>\n

It’s considered a valuable time for challenging limiting beliefs, exploring new perspectives and preparing for meaningful personal transformation.<\/p>\n

How This May Affect You…<\/b><\/p>\n

You may feel restless, question established routines or recognise areas where you’ve outgrown previous circumstances. Your perspective on relationships, personal freedom or life direction may begin changing.<\/p>\n

What To Focus On…<\/b><\/p>\n

Challenge outdated beliefs, explore new ideas, embrace individuality and reconsider situations that restrict personal growth. Reflect on changes you’d like to make and prepare for them thoughtfully rather than acting impulsively.<\/p>\n

Key Lesson: Release outdated thinking, embrace your individuality and allow yourself to evolve.<\/em><\/p>\n

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NEPTUNE RETROGRADE<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Intuition, Spirituality, Dreams & Illusions<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Neptune governs intuition, spirituality, imagination, dreams, compassion and illusion. It’s associated with our inner world, spiritual beliefs and the way we interpret experiences beyond purely practical understanding.<\/p>\n

When Neptune goes retrograde, astrology traditionally associates this period with recognising illusions, questioning unrealistic expectations and gaining greater clarity about situations that may have been misunderstood or idealised.<\/p>\n

You may begin seeing relationships, personal circumstances or long-held beliefs from a different perspective. Situations that once appeared perfect may reveal complexities you’ve previously overlooked.<\/p>\n

Neptune Retrograde is also associated with confronting avoidance patterns and self-deception. You may recognise where you’ve been ignoring warning signs, overlooking uncomfortable truths or allowing wishful thinking to influence important decisions.<\/p>\n

Spiritually, this period encourages examining your intuitive experiences and personal beliefs with greater awareness.<\/p>\n

Rather than abandoning intuition, Neptune Retrograde symbolically encourages balancing spiritual understanding with practical judgement and emotional clarity.<\/p>\n

How This May Affect You…<\/b><\/p>\n

You may question previously idealised situations, recognise unrealistic expectations or experience a shift in your spiritual perspective. Emotional clarity may develop as you become more aware of avoidance patterns or misleading assumptions.<\/p>\n

What To Focus On…<\/b><\/p>\n

Practise self-reflection, question assumptions, establish healthy emotional boundaries and remain grounded when making decisions. Explore spiritual beliefs while distinguishing intuition from fear, fantasy or wishful thinking.<\/p>\n

Key Lesson: Look beyond illusions, trust your inner wisdom and remain grounded in reality.<\/em><\/p>\n

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PLUTO RETROGRADE<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Transformation, Personal Power, Control & Rebirth<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n

Pluto governs transformation, personal power, control, psychological depth, endings and rebirth. In astrology, it’s associated with profound personal change and confronting aspects of ourselves that are often hidden beneath the surface.<\/p>\n

When Pluto goes retrograde, its symbolism becomes more internally focused, encouraging deeper examination of fears, emotional patterns, attachments and personal motivations.<\/p>\n

During this period, you may become more aware of unhealthy power dynamics, controlling behaviours or situations where you’ve surrendered your personal authority.<\/p>\n

Unresolved emotional experiences may resurface, encouraging you to recognise patterns that continue influencing your relationships, decisions or sense of self-worth.<\/p>\n

Pluto Retrograde is also associated with releasing what no longer serves your personal growth. This may involve examining unhealthy attachments, challenging deeply ingrained beliefs or recognising behaviours that prevent meaningful change.<\/p>\n

Rather than focusing on dramatic external transformation, this period symbolically encourages rebuilding personal strength through self-awareness and emotional growth.<\/p>\n

It’s traditionally viewed as an opportunity to reclaim personal power, confront difficult truths and move towards a more authentic version of yourself.<\/p>\n

How This May Affect You…<\/b><\/p>\n

You may become more aware of hidden fears, unhealthy attachments or recurring power struggles. Emotional patterns and unresolved situations may require deeper reflection, particularly where control, trust or personal boundaries are involved.<\/p>\n

What To Focus On…<\/b><\/p>\n

Examine recurring emotional patterns, release unhealthy attachments, strengthen personal boundaries and address situations where you feel powerless. Focus on emotional healing, self-awareness and creating meaningful change from within.<\/p>\n

Key Lesson: Release unhealthy attachments, embrace change and reclaim your personal power.<\/em><\/p>\n

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Understanding The Bigger Picture – Why Retrogrades Affect Everyone Differently<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Although each planetary retrograde is associated with particular themes, astrology doesn’t interpret their influence as identical for everyone.<\/p>\n

The zodiac sign in which a planet is retrograding, its position within your individual birth chart and the connections it makes with other planets are traditionally considered important factors in understanding its significance.<\/p>\n

For example, Mercury Retrograde may be interpreted as bringing greater attention to relationships for one person, while another may experience its themes more strongly in their career, finances or personal development.<\/p>\n

The slower-moving planets, particularly Uranus, Neptune and Pluto, spend several months retrograde each year. Their astrological influence is generally interpreted as gradual and connected with longer-term transformation rather than immediate events.<\/p>\n

The most important thing to understand is that planetary retrogrades aren’t automatically negative. In astrology, they’re opportunities to reflect, reassess and recognise where adjustments may support personal growth.<\/p>\n

Rather than fearing retrogrades, consider their symbolism an invitation to slow down, reconnect with your priorities and approach life with greater awareness.<\/p>\n

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How Often Does Each Planet Go Retrograde?<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Each planet follows its own retrograde cycle, meaning some appear to move backwards several times a year, while others only do so every couple of years.\u00a0The frequency and duration depend on the planet’s orbit and its position relative to Earth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
\n

Planet<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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Retrograde Frequency<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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Approximate Duration<\/b><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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Mercury<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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3\u20134 times per year<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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3 weeks<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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Venus<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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Once every 18 months<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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6 weeks<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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Mars<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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Once every 2 years<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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2\u20132.5 months<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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Jupiter<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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Once every 13 months<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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4 months<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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Saturn<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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Once every year<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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4.5 months<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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Uranus<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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Once every year<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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5 months<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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Neptune<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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Once every year<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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5\u20136 months<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n

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Pluto<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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Once every year<\/p>\n<\/td>\n

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5\u20136 months<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

Why Are Some Planets Retrograde More Often Than Others?<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

Mercury appears retrograde several times a year because of its relatively short orbit around the Sun and its changing position in relation to Earth.<\/p>\n

Venus and Mars have less frequent retrograde periods, while Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto experience longer retrogrades at fairly regular intervals.<\/p>\n

In astrology, the shorter retrogrades of Mercury, Venus and Mars are often associated with more noticeable everyday themes, while the longer retrogrades of the outer planets are interpreted as periods of gradual reflection, personal development and deeper transformation.<\/p>\n

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DID YOU KNOW?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Several planets can be retrograde at the same time! This is completely normal astronomically, although astrologers interpret overlapping retrogrades as periods when multiple areas of life may call for reflection and reassessment.<\/p>\n

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What Happens When Each Planet Goes Retrograde and How This Can Affect You Ever wondered what actually happens when a planet goes retrograde and how it might affect your life? […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-5895","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/nikkisilk.com.au\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5895","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/nikkisilk.com.au\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/nikkisilk.com.au\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nikkisilk.com.au\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/nikkisilk.com.au\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5895"}],"version-history":[{"count":28,"href":"https:\/\/nikkisilk.com.au\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5895\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5927,"href":"https:\/\/nikkisilk.com.au\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5895\/revisions\/5927"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/nikkisilk.com.au\/shop\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5895"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}