A retrograde planet refers to a planet that, when observed from Earth, appears to be moving in the opposite direction of its usual orbit. This phenomenon occurs due to the relative positions and speeds of the planets in their orbits around the Sun. When a planet is in retrograde, it gives the illusion that it’s moving backward through the zodiac. While this movement is an optical illusion caused by the varying speeds of Earth and the other planets, astrologers have attributed certain symbolic meanings to retrograde periods. When we consider the retrograde movement of Venus in astrology, it’s believed to hold special significance in the realm of relationships, emotions, and personal values. Venus is the planet that governs matters related to love, beauty, harmony, desires, and partnerships. In astrology, it’s often associated with how we express affection, form connections, and appreciate beauty in the world.

When Venus appears to be in retrograde motion, as observed from Earth, it’s thought to influence these areas of life in a unique way. The symbolism of retrograde Venus aligns with the idea of revisiting and reevaluating past relationships and unresolved emotional issues. This period can urge individuals to reflect on their values, desires, and attitudes toward love and partnerships.

The idea of “re-evaluation” is key during Venus retrograde. It’s a time to take a closer look at how we’ve been approaching relationships, whether romantic or platonic, and assess whether they align with our true values and aspirations. This introspective process encourages individuals to delve into their emotions and consider whether there are any lingering sentiments that need to be addressed.

As Venus rules over matters of the heart, relationships, and beauty, this period might provide an opportunity for individuals to address any lingering feelings, mend old wounds, or make decisions about how to move forward in their relationships. It’s a time when conversations and reflections can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and one’s connections with others. The introspective nature of this period encourages individuals to examine their feelings and desires on a more personal and reflective level. It’s a time for self-discovery and internal growth.

Beauty Treatments

Carol Rushman advises caution regarding beauty treatments during Venus retrograde, this advice aligns with the idea of not making significant changes to one’s appearance or indulging in drastic transformations during a period that emphasizes reflection and reevaluation. Since Venus is associated with beauty and aesthetics, the advice suggests that it’s better to wait until the retrograde period is over before making any major changes to your physical appearance.

I advise my clients against any type of beautification process when Venus is retrograde, particularly cosmetic surgery. Even permanent waves, hair colouring, hair styling, and hair cutting can be unsuccessful. My daughter and I went to have our hair cut on the day that Venus was retrograde and we both cried all the way home because we got such bad haircuts. We had each wanted a trim, but we both went home with very short hair. The Art of Predictive Astrology: Forecasting Your Life Events

Here is an interesting note on Venus retrograde in a natal chart by Dane Rudhyar:

The same type of analysis applies for the case of Venus retrograde; with this difference, however, that Venus and Mars are retrograde only for a short portion of their synodic cycles. The average cycle between two superior conjunctions of Venus and the Sun last 584 days (about a year and 7 months) , and its retrograde phase – during which the inferior conjunction occurs – only about six weeks. This is the shortest time a planet spends being retrograde relatively to the length of its complete cycle; which means that its rarer for a person to be born with Venus retrograde than with any other planet retrograde.

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