When we notice that a planet is about to go retrograde in our astrology calendar, it’s natural to feel a sense of unease. However, there’s no need to be alarmed by the term “retrograde.” While Mercury retrograde tends to have a negative reputation, Venus retrograde actually brings positive changes, especially when it comes to love. Whether you’re single or in a relationship, Venus retrograde will introduce you to the concept of fated love and positively influence your primary relationships over the next few weeks.
Venus, known as the Goddess of Beauty and Love, is classified as an inner planet. Its orbit takes approximately 225 days to complete a full circle through the zodiac, spending around 20 days in each sign and never straying more than two signs away from the Sun. This means that every year, we have numerous opportunities to review, reassess, and renew our relationships according to the different energies presented by the zodiac.
Venus governs two signs and two astrological houses: Taurus and the 2nd House of Wealth, and Libra and the 7th House of Partnerships. Taurus represents Venus’ internal qualities, such as personal values and desires, while Libra embodies its external qualities, including the passion for relationships and connection. Venus’ influence manifests in various ways in our daily lives, and each of us possesses unique Venusian traits that express beauty and love.
Common themes associated with Venus include harmony, affection, love, beauty, sociability, creativity, flirtatiousness, and self-indulgence. When Venus goes retrograde, we observe a shift in how love is expressed on Earth. Venus retrograde occurs less frequently than Mercury retrograde, happening approximately every 19 months for about six weeks. During this time, Venus appears to move backward in the sign of Leo, starting on July 22nd, 2023, infusing our love lives with a touch of magic.
When a planet is direct, it emphasizes the themes associated with that planet and the corresponding zodiac sign for all individuals. However, when a planet is retrograde, it slows down and appears to make a stop, amplifying the qualities and themes it represents. In other words, relationships remain enjoyable, but they acquire a more reflective tone.
Venus retrograde can be summarized by four primary themes: reflection, reviewing, reconnection, and rediscovery. As Venus slows down and appears to move backward, it brings forth aspects of the past. Since Venus governs love and money, past loves will play a significant role in the lives of many people, including your friends and possibly yourself. While the focus primarily revolves around love during this transit, you can apply this reflective perspective to all aspects of your life.
Here are some activities you can undertake during Venus retrograde:
- Release relationships that no longer serve you.
- Let go of lingering feelings of loneliness.
- Adjust unrealistic expectations of love and friendships.
- Consider leaving a job that doesn’t bring you happiness.
- Prioritize the strength of your existing relationships.
- Make amends with those from your past.
- Remain open to rekindling old flames or encountering twin flames.
- Cultivate self-love and validate yourself anew.
If you’re single, Venus retrograde signifies your desire to change your relationship status. This transit will aid you in your quest, although it may involve periods of abundance followed by scarcity. Have you ever longed for “The One” and found everyone but that person knocking on your door? This could happen now, as you’ll be presented with various options. However, discerning which path to follow can be challenging.
If you’re not seeking a committed relationship, go out and have fun, but be clear and responsible about your intentions with potential partners. Avoid leading someone on by giving false impressions of desiring a serious relationship when you’re not looking for one at the moment. Similarly, if you’re searching for someone special, don’t settle for the first available option you encounter. Maintain high standards and uphold your boundaries and needs. Not everything is as it appears.
For those who are already in relationships, exercise caution during Venus retrograde. This period delves into the past and unearths old relationship issues, leading to conversations that may escalate into arguments. “Remember that party in 2009 when you were flirting with that girl?” You might not remember, but someone else does. Many conversations from the past will resurface, reopening old wounds and addressing unresolved issues.
Venus retrograde will expose the cracks in your relationship, providing an opportunity for repair. This period can make or break couples. If you wish to stay in the relationship, you’ll need to address and heal these issues. However, if you decide it’s not meant to be, you’ll be at peace with the outcome. Venus retrograde grants you a heightened sense of self-awareness, enabling you to determine what you truly want and make decisions accordingly.
Expect significant changes in your love life during Venus retrograde. Remember that this is a potent time for encounters with twin flames and reconnections with old flames. Past loves or connections may resurface for a season or a reason, as Venus enjoys playing her games. An old flame might test you, forcing you to consider whether true love has been right in front of you all along or if an old love needs revisiting. What are your relationship wishes during this Venus retrograde? Embrace the awakening it brings and discover what you truly desire in love.