Venus Retrograde

The phenomenon known as Venus Retrograde occurs approximately every 20 months when, for about forty days, Venus travels in reverse motion against the backdrop of stars. Of course, it doesn't really move backwards, but only appears to do so from our point of view here on Earth.

As Earth's closest planetary neighbor, Venus is the brightest planet in the sky. Visible in the western evening sky since December, she has become increasingly brighter since March.

Its motion slows until it appears to stand still on July 24 and then change direction. Continuing in its orbit, it disappears on August 13, then reappears as a morning "star" heralding the dawn on August 22. As Venus approaches its greatest elongation in the morning sky, it slows in its backward motion, stands still, then resumes its forward course on September 8, 2007, remaining visible as a morning star until May 10, 2008. The next Venus retrograde period begins in March 2009.

Mythical and astrological conjecture about the nature of the planet Venus has been prominent and consistent since ancient times. Her high visibility and her morning and evening phases have made her one of the most closely observed planets. Babylonian and Mesoamerican astrologers paid close attention to her cycles, particularly to her first appearance as a morning star, which was considered a dangerous time.

The Babylonians called Venus the double-phased Ishtar -- the morning star of war and the evening star of love. Greek astrologers called the morning phase of Venus Lucifer ("the light bearer") and the evening phase Hesperus ("setting in the West"). The Mesoamericans linked the morning phase of Venus with Quetzalcoatl, one of their major gods, believing that this was a time when leaders are struck down and natural disasters occur.

While Venus is retrograde, old friends and/or lovers may reenter one's life. During this period, financial returns are apt to be delayed and affection is more difficult to receive and express. Beginning a new relationship, buying luxury items and investing in objects of art or items of beauty is generally discouraged during the retrograde period.

Venus retrograde is a good time to reflect on your values, to review your relationships and to donate your energy to a charitable cause.

This Venus retrograde takes place mostly in the sign of Leo, promoting co-creativity, along with lavish and playful interactions. There is a yearning for attention that can leave you feeling unappreciated, even among your closest friends.

Love is highlighted with Venus in Leo, often leading to the formation of romantic relationships, with the retrograde they may end up offering more dramatic moments than playful ones. Loyalty and graciousness, easily degrades into possessive demands.

Be conscious of how you treat friends and loved ones. Your focused attitude may be perceived as selfish or prideful, and feelings could be hurt. This is an excellent time to review the amount of fulfillment derived from your recreational and romantic life and to consider how you can be more attentive and loving to others.