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| On July 23, Venus, the planet of Love, Beauty, Desire, Fertility, Prosperity and Values, retraces her steps in the bold and radiant sign of Leo for 44 long days. A celestial event brimming with opportunities for personal growth and the evolution of our collective consciousness. We are presented with a unique chance to examine our relationships, deepen our authenticity, and shape a more sustainable and inclusive world.
Since June 19, the fascinating planet Venus has been gracefully descending towards the horizon, its radiant presence captivating our evening sky as the mesmerizing Evening Star. As the days have passed, Venus has gradually slowed down its celestial dance, preparing for a profound cosmic transformation. Soon, it will vanish from our sight for a brief period, embarking on a journey into the depths of the underworld, the realm of our subconscious labyrinth. During this mystical phase, Venus merges with the illuminating power of the Sun, symbolizing the union of our conscious and subconscious selves. Together, they navigate the darkness, confronting the shadows within us, and forging a path towards illumination. Emerging triumphant at the end of this transformative period, Venus reemerges as the Morning Star, bearing the celestial torch, known in Greek as Phosphorus and in Latin as Lucifer. This ethereal metamorphosis holds great significance, inviting us to reflect on our journey through the depths of our being. It serves as a potent metaphor for our exploration of the hidden recesses of our consciousness, as we confront and integrate our deepest desires, fears, and truths. Just as Venus emerges from this sacred underworld, we too have the opportunity to emerge with newfound clarity, purpose, and authenticity. Let us embrace this heavenly dance as we prepare to witness the radiant rebirth of Venus as the Morning Star, illuminating our path forward. |
Venus Retrograde in Leo
From Morning to Evening Star: Venus and the Sun Venus Retrograde Symbolism and Evolutionary Insights Venus Retrograde in Leo: A Journey of Self-Love and Creativity Venus Dramatics: What Is So Special About 2023 Phases of Venus Retrograde in Leo 2023 Introducing the Tension: Venus Retrograde in Leo & its Main Planetary Squares Venus Retrograde in Leo: A Call for Positive Leadership Amidst Modern Challenges |
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Venus, as an inferior planet nestled between the Sun and Earth, holds a significant place in our astrological landscape. It represents our irrational and subjective choices, contrasting with the logical and rational choices associated with Mercury. Venus delves deep into the realm of our desires, influencing our preferences and motivations when it comes to matters of the heart.
At its core, Venus governs our capacity to love, our longing to be loved, and the intricate web of attachments we form throughout our life. It holds the key to our earliest experiences of love, often rooted in our relationship with our mother. These deeply ingrained patterns shape the way we approach relationships, acting as a lens through which we perceive our bonds with others and develop expectations.
While Venus may steer us towards irrational choices, it also fuels our drive to attain satisfaction. It compels us to take action, sometimes going to great lengths, in pursuit of our desires. Venus possesses the enchanting ability to attract, charm, and mesmerize, which is often reflected in our personal tastes, fashion choices, and how we derive pleasure from life. Furthermore, Venus, as the planet of peace and harmony, influences our commitment to nurturing and preserving the things and people we hold dear.
However, life is a dynamic and ever-changing tapestry. The objects of our attachment come and go, our tastes evolve, and our values elevate as our understanding and experience of love deepen and transform. This continuous process of growth and evolution lies at the heart of the Venus cycle, which intertwines with the cycle of the Sun, representing our identity, consciousness, and ego.
Approximately every nine months, the Sun and Venus align either in our sky as Venus transitions from the Morning Star to the Evening Star, or during Venus retrograde when they unite in the darkness of the night. The superior conjunction signifies a culmination, akin to a full moon, while the retrograde initiation represents a profound ritual of transformation. It is during the retrograde phase that something must die for new forms of love to be born, and fresh seeds of potential are sown.
Through the cyclical dance of Venus and the Sun, we are offered opportunities to shed old patterns, redefine our values, and deepen our understanding of love. Embracing this evolutionary process empowers us to navigate the ever-changing terrain of our relationships, allowing us to embody the positive essence of Venus while aligning with our authentic selves.
During the Venus retrograde, which occurs every 18 months, our usual patterns of love and relationships experience a pause and disruption. The specific manifestations of this cosmic event will vary for each individual, depending on their level of consciousness and the areas where the retrograde invites personal work. However, there are common themes that can be expected:
The retrograde period’s center, known as the inferior conjunction, holds a different energy and significance compared to the superior conjunction.
In Mesoamerican civilizations, Venus was believed to change sex and polarity over the retrograde period, in essence transforming into Mars, God of War, engaging in a symbolic battle against the beasts of the underworld side by side with his brother the jaguar Sun. Ball games staging this epic combat between forces of the day and night were played ritually, the winner’s head was severed to allow the bravest and luckiest one, picked by the Gods, to speak with them and intercede in favour of their people, armies were mobilized and started to march at the end of the retrograde.
This period invites us to confront our inner demons, realign with our higher selves, and challenge harmful patterns and behaviors, however uncomfortable, disturbing, and unsafe this might feel. It calls for a deep exploration of our motivations and whether the bonds we hold are still potent or in need of change.
In Christian symbolism, this 40-day period is akin to Jesus’ desert journey and his three temptations by Satan. Venus retrogrades the same 5 signs over a period of 8 years, remaining for more than 120 years in a single sign. This longevity encourages individual and collective evolution in our understanding of love and values in relation to the wisdom of each sign visited.
As Venus embarks on its retrograde journey through the sign of Leo exclusively from 2023 to 2063, a civilization cycle similar to the period between 1772 and 1812, we are presented with a powerful opportunity for introspection and refinement of the underlying love operating in a specific area of our chart.
To gain insight into what this year’s Venus retrograde experience in Leo might hold for you, you can look back to the summers of 1959, 1967, 1975, 1983, 1991, 2007, and 2015 when Venus retrograded from Virgo into Leo. Reflecting on those periods can provide you with valuable hints about the themes and energies that may arise during this upcoming retrograde.
Delving into the realm of Leo, a sign associated with self-love, self-expression, creativity, empowerment, and leadership, Venus influences our personal relationships, creative endeavors, and self-esteem. In direct motion, this transit encourages us to embrace our unique qualities and authentic self, allowing our creative heart to shine brightly. During this period, we are invited to express ourselves creatively in ways that resonate with our true essence, whether through art, fashion, parties, romance, play, comedy, or any other form of expression that brings us joy.
Venus in Leo amplifies our passion and adds a touch of drama to our relationships. It fuels our desire for grand gestures, heartfelt expressions of love, and extravagant displays of affection. We are encouraged to embrace our inner romantic and shower our loved ones with warmth, generosity, and appreciation.
However, when Venus makes a rare U-turn in Leo, it is often a sign that our expression of love has become corrupted and needs refinement, both on an individual and collective level. The energy of Venus in Leo can sometimes manifest in egocentric behavior, where we pay little attention to the true needs of others. We may, for instance, seek constant admiration and social approval or be prone to dramatic displays if our needs go unmet. This energy may also give rise to possessiveness, jealousy, resentment, judgment, pride, and arrogance.
During the Venus retrograde in Leo, the intensity of these traits may be heightened so that we realize the problem we’re dealing with. Outside the retrograde context, this problem can lead to a fear of disapproval that hinders our ability to share our unique light with others. Trapped in self-absorption, we may withhold our warm and inspiring nature. Conforming to socially accepted norms that have lost their depth and vibrancy, or completely refraining from sharing our true gifts, results in social isolation and a sense of powerlessness that Venus retrograde intends to correct.
The retrograde period will manifest in various ways for each individual, ranging from an exaggerated desire for love and attention, dramatic self-expression, unbridled passion, or rejection due to perceived superiority or entitled attitudes.
These experiences aim to awaken us to the realization that we can no longer hide in fear of not being accepted, nor can we continue with half-hearted behaviors or unsatisfying choices.
Venus retrograde in Leo will illuminate where we have been misdirecting our emotional energy. Where fear repressed our dramatic talents and creative capabilities that were meant to be shared. This process may be intense, fiery, and potentially heart-wrenching. Or heart-opening, triggering an inner transformation that prompts us to question whether we can and want to continue living in this way or finally break free from the spell that holds us back. It calls us to reintroduce passion, optimism, vision, and courage into our lives, reclaiming our authentic selves.
On a deeper level, Venus in Leo invites us to examine our self-worth and how we value ourselves. It urges us to recognize our inherent worthiness, embracing our unique gifts and talents without hesitation or self-doubt. This period calls for confidence, self-assurance, and the courage to express our true selves, free from the fear of judgment or rejection. It dares us to harness our dramatic flair, sensitivity, and generosity, sharing our passion simply and honestly while inclusively empowering others to do the same.
It is important to remember that the Venus retrograde is akin to a new moon, where what unfolds during this period is not meant to be immediately manifested, but rather grows and materializes over time, culminating by June 2024.
Venus, as the planet of love and values, plays a significant role in motivating and informing our actions. This retrograde invites us to delve deep into our feelings, examining the motivations behind our choices and behaviors. By doing so, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and make conscious shifts towards aligning our actions with our authentic desires and values.
With the Mars retrograde in Gemini at the end of 2022 leading us to realize the need for new ways of communication and sharing, Venus’s retrograde in Leo takes a surprising turn.
Just as Mars and Venus (representing our heart and actions) were meant to unite in the indulgent, lustful embrace of Leo, Venus slows down, stalls and shifts backward. They will only merge again six months later once again in the selfless and humanitarian sign of Aquarius, governing the current decade.
Chiron, the wounded healer also goes retrograde on the same day, inviting us to turn within for healing, mentorship, and guidance. During the Aug 13 Venus inferior conjunction, Chiron will provide a healing aura to the emerging creative spark, as well as the rebirth of our passion for life.
Even more surprising, five days into the new 18-month north node transit in the brave sign of Aries, Venus starts her retrograde motion, kicking off a unique cosmic summer bootcamp set to galvanize our courage, pump up our ambitions and embolden our objectives.
These fiery harbingers present us with a remarkable opportunity to reconnect with the fire and zest of life. It encourages us to embrace our heartfelt desires and give them a grander stage, reigniting them with creative inspiration, ambitious goals, noble visions of the future, and a sense of purpose and historical significance. It prepares us for significant collective events that are about to unfold, infusing our hearts with a thirst for justice and optimism.
The fact that the ruler of Leo, the Sun, is at the exact last degree and minute of Cancer during the stationary retrograde highlights the emotional trauma, sense of isolation, need for retreat, and deep inner process we may experience. However, it also signifies the birth of something dramatically new.
The first phase of the retrograde, from July 23 to August 8, is likely to be marked by excesses involving others.
The feelings of inferiority, hurt, or guilt triggered at the beginning of the retrograde may lead us into a period of retreat from August 8 to August 17.
From August 18 to September 4, the pressure will minimize, but it is still advisable to keep our plans to ourselves and explore their possibilities intuitively, playfully, and in a rather personal fashion.
After September 4, our resolve and plans will be strong enough to be shared with others, and it will be time to involve them in the adventure. For some, this may be when challenges intensify and things get serious, mobilizing their strengths as they begin to march forward.
During this Venus retrograde in Leo, there are two important planetary aspects that will add tension and significance to the overall energy: squares with Uranus and Jupiter both in Taurus.
The squares with Uranus on July 2 and August 9 will bring attention to an area of our lives where we have been overly conservative or resistant to change. Since 2018, we may have experienced disruptions and upsets in this particular area which was once a source of comfort and gratitude. Uranus symbolizes unexpected events and awakening to new possibilities that we wouldn’t have explored on our own. These squares will challenge us to confront the self-sabotaging impact of our past ways of enjoying life and break free from the shackles of comfort and tradition. The goal is to find new, healthier, and more sustainable ways of living, blossoming, and relating.
Jupiter in Taurus will also play a significant role during this retrograde period. Jupiter squares with Venus on June 11, August 22, and September 17 pushing us to extremes in our previous ways of being. It will test our resolve and willingness to let go of old patterns. The squares will confront us with situations where our ego may have pushed our behavior over the edge. The aim is to find a wiser path and exercise moderation, acting in favor of the collective rather than indulging in egocentric and childish drama. Jupiter in Taurus encourages us to channel this strong creative energy into the concrete manifestation of material objectives. It presents an opportunity to review and align our actions with the support of Mars in Virgo and Mars in Libra during this period.
These planetary aspects highlight the need for change, the necessity to release old patterns, and the potential for transformation. Embracing the tension and challenges they bring allows us to evolve, adapt, and move towards a more balanced and fulfilling way of living. By recognizing the limitations of our past ways and exploring new possibilities, we can break free from stagnation and create a future that is aligned with our authentic selves and supports the well-being of the collective.
Additionally, it is worth noting the upcoming Saturn in Pisces opposition to Venus. Initially expected to form by mid-July, it has been postponed to mid-October by the retrograde Venus. This alignment calls for a balance between structure and harmony, discipline and pleasure. It may present a test of our commitments and values, urging us to find a harmonious integration of responsibility and self-expression. The delay caused by the retrograde may allow us more time to reflect, reassess, and prepare for the lessons this open confrontational and contraction test of all things Venus (love, money, resources, relationship, work) will bring.
At a collective level, the Venus retrograde in Leo is likely to trigger major events with wide-ranging implications:
From a leadership perspective, Venus in Leo inspires individuals to step into their personal power and take on leadership roles in areas that ignite their passion. It encourages leaders to lead with warmth, generosity, and a genuine desire to uplift and inspire others. This transit reminds us that leadership goes beyond authority; it is about creating a positive impact and empowering those around us.
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| True leadership is not about seeking approval, but about inspiring others to find their own light. |
Moreover, the last time Venus was exclusively retrograde in Leo was between 1772 and 1812, a transformative period that reshaped the Western world from a monarchic system to a democratic one.
During this historic period, a profound economic and monetary crisis (1772-73) rocked the major European kingdoms. This crisis, coupled with severe climatic disturbances, resulted in rampant inflation, increased taxation, and recurring famines. The social unrest simmering beneath the surface reached its boiling point as the 13 American colonies revolted against new fiscal pressures, refusing to submit or make sacrifices. France, their eventual ally, followed suit a few years later in 1789. The culmination of this era witnessed the British Empire’s failure to regain control of the colonies in the war of 1812, solidifying the United States’ independence. Similarly, the European democratic experiment faced its own challenges in 1812 when Napoleon Bonaparte’s liberating Grande Armée encountered the harsh realities of the expansive Russian steppe. Despite setbacks, the success of the United States and the prevailing spirit of liberty that swept across Europe marked the beginning of the end for the dominant European monarchies, paving the way for the gradual emergence of the democratic systems we inherit today.
The historical setting of the late 18th century, with its financial crises, inflation, climatic challenges, rebellion against unfair laws or taxes, and the courageous efforts of artists and minorities, provides a captivating backdrop for exploring the potential impact of the current Venus retrograde in Leo. However, it’s important to acknowledge that our current societal landscape has its own unique complexities and challenges.
In today’s world, the advent of social networks has introduced a new dimension to societal dynamics. While these platforms have the potential to amplify important messages and unite like-minded individuals, they can also be characterized by sensationalism and vacuity. The prevalence of clickbait headlines and shallow content can divert attention from the deeper issues that require our collective focus and may have smothered our fire in absence of codified approval, victims of commercial algorithms, formidable boosters of mediocrity and time-consuming escapism.
Moreover, the absence of viable political options that align with our evolving set of values can be disheartening. Many individuals feel disillusioned by the lack of genuine leadership and meaningful change in addressing pressing issues such as the climate emergency and social inequalities. The urgency of the environmental and social crises has become increasingly apparent over the last decade, demanding immediate action and innovative solutions.
In light of these realities, it is essential to consider how the current Venus retrograde in Leo can serve as a catalyst for positive change. It invites us to reevaluate our personal values and take individual responsibility for contributing to a more just and sustainable world. This retrograde period calls for a shift in collective consciousness, away from superficial and unsubstantiated celebrity and raising up of those with a deeper understanding of the issues at hand.
Just as artists and minorities played a pivotal role in historical revolutions, today’s influencers and activists can leverage their platforms to inspire meaningful action and address the imbalances and injustices of our time. By embracing our unique strengths and passions, we have the opportunity to contribute to a collective movement that seeks to tackle the pressing challenges of our era.
