What happens when Venus goes retrograde?
Venus, the planet of love, beauty, relationships, and values, appears to move backward in the sky during its retrograde cycle, which happens roughly every 18 months. Unlike Mercury retrograde, which affects communication and technology, Venus retrograde turns our attention inward, prompting deep reflection on matters of the heart, self-worth, creativity, and even finances.
What to expect during this period- March 1 to April 12:
- Past relationships may resurface, either in memories or real-life encounters.
- Romantic and financial decisions require extra caution.
- It’s a time for reevaluating what (and who) truly aligns with your values.
- Personal aesthetics and artistic inspiration may undergo transformation.
Venus Retrograde in Mythology & History
The Goddess and the Descent
Many ancient cultures associated Venus’s retrograde motion with mythological themes of death, rebirth, and transformation. One of the most famous stories is Inanna’s Descent from Sumerian mythology:
- Inanna (the equivalent of Venus) descends into the underworld, stripping away all material possessions, status, and ego.
- She faces her deepest shadows before emerging renewed, wiser, and transformed.
- This mirrors the journey we take during Venus retrograde—shedding outdated beliefs about love, money, and beauty to reclaim our true essence.
I am doing a podcast about Venus Retrograde and this specific mythological story. It’s the perfect example of what Venus Retrograde is.
Historical Astrology & Venus Retrograde
- In ancient Mesoamerican cultures, the Venus cycle was closely monitored, influencing war, leadership decisions, and spiritual rituals.
- Some astrologers believe historical shifts in art, fashion, and relationship norms align with Venus retrograde cycles.
A Time for Self-Reflection & Inner Growth
This period asks: Are we living in alignment with our deepest values?
- Love & Relationships: It’s a time to assess whether relationships (romantic or platonic) are built on authenticity. Are they based on love or convenience?
- Self-Worth: Venus retrograde can expose areas where we undervalue ourselves. Are you settling for less than you deserve?
- Creativity & Expression: Since Venus rules art and beauty, this is a powerful time to reconnect with creative passions that may have been neglected.
We have all had the story of breaking off a relationship, as challenging as that is, only to find ourselves feeling stronger and freer afterward. This is what Venus Retrograde period is: a time to reflect on what is working and what is not and to muster the courage to make challenging choices.
The Financial & Artistic Influence of Venus Retrograde
Since Venus rules money and aesthetics, this period is NOT the ideal time for:
- Making large financial commitments (investments, luxury purchases).
- Starting a new business related to art, beauty, or fashion.
- Undergoing major cosmetic changes (tattoos, plastic surgery, drastic makeovers).
However, it is a great time for:
- Reviewing finances and identifying where to cut excess spending.
- Revisiting unfinished creative projects or rebranding personal work.
- Seeking inspiration in old forms of art, literature, and music.
Venus retrograde isn’t something to fear—it’s a powerful opportunity to reset our hearts, values, and creative expression. I encourage you to:
- Embrace reflection and self-love.
- Let go of relationships, habits, or material attachments that no longer serve you.
- Approach beauty, love, and wealth from a more conscious perspective.
- Travel inward (or outward!) to sacred spaces that help them reconnect with their true selves.
In both the myth of Inanna and the celestial event, we are reminded of the cyclical nature of life—light and shadow, love and loss, death and rebirth—all of which are essential for personal and collective growth.
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