In Astrology, we all know Venus as the planet of love, beauty, abundance and harmony. Whichever astrological sign Venus is transiting shows us how these energies will be expressed during that period of time. But what happens when Venus turns retrograde?
Venus goes retrograde approximately every 18 months, for about six weeks at a time. During this retrograde period, the planet appears – as viewed from earth – to be moving backwards across the sky. This is nothing but an optical illusion, but the apparent backwards motion is astrologically significant, and astrologers interpret it as symbolic of Venus’ affects in our lives, according to our natal chart, during this period.
This year, Venus is turning retrograde in the 3rd House of Gemini. In Astrology, Venus retrograde cycles repeat in the same zodiac sign every eight years, so if you can recall what you were doing during the spring of 2012, astrologers say you might get some insight into how this retrograde period is likely to pan out. Jupiter is also turning retrograde at the same time; Jupiter is in retrograde every 12 months.
During Venus retrograde, the past tends to become important, particularly as it regards love, values and money. Since this retrograde is taking place in Gemini, there are strong links to communication of some kind too. Don’t be surprised if during this Venus retrograde a lover from your past gets back in touch, or an old debt resurfaces and needs paying.
In Astrology, Venus is the planet of abundance, but during the retrograde motion, this abundance can seem difficult to hold onto. This is not a time for major spending projects; try to save instead, or at the very least, take expert financial advice before spending anything out of the ordinary. Expect to find your values challenged too, especially if you haven’t always walked the walk. In love, Gemini energy is very flirtatious and quite fickle, so during Venus retrograde in Gemini, this flirtatiousness can cause issues with jealousy or insecurity. However harmless you think your behavior may be, bear in mind that your partner – and others – may see it very differently. Reputations can also be at stake during the Venus retrograde period, especially when social media gets into the mix.
At its best, however, this retrograde period allows us to stand back a little from past relationships, regardless of our zodiac sign. For new relationships, it probably signifies the end of the honeymoon period, but that’s a good thing, as it allows for a deeper and more sustainable love to emerge. For more established love relationships, try to slow things down a little. Instead of socializing all the time, find time just for the two of you, and enjoy cozy nights in for a while.
What does Venus in Gemini mean?
In Astrology, how you experience Venus retrograde depends on the exact makeup of your own astrological birth chart, but overall, all zodiac signs during this period will be seeking some calm and some quiet.
Aries Zodiac Sign (Aries Dates: March 20 – April 19) During Venus Retrograde in Gemini
Life has been exceptionally busy recently for those under the 1st house zodiac sign; this Venus retrograde period is your chance to step back from the hustle and bustle and to create a calmer period in your life with some self-care. Cut down on the number of errands you’re running and try to allow the world to turn without you for a while.
Taurus Zodiac Sign (Taurus Dates: 20 April to 20 May) During Venus Retrograde in Gemini
This Venus retrograde period reminds you that money is not the be all and end all. You may experience some financial loss and hurt self-esteem at this time, but you will manage. Use the time to budget more wisely and to become more aware of your own financial responsibilities and limitations so you don't self-sabotage.
Gemini Zodiac Sign (Gemini Dates: 21 May to 20 June) During Venus Retrograde in Gemini
When Venus turns retrograde in your own sign, you may feel less outgoing and less flirtatious than normal. Within a relationship, it could be time for some down time together – spend more time with one another and much less with other people.
Cancer Zodiac Sign (Cancer Dates: 21 June to 21 July) During Venus Retrograde in Gemini
With the retrograde in your privacy zone, this is a clear signal that you need some quiet time. Don’t be afraid to decline social invitations or to cut down on the amount of time you spend with friends or colleagues, just for a while. Quiet meditation and self-love will soothe your mind.
Leo Zodiac Sign (Leo Dates: 22 July to 22 August) During Venus Retrograde in Gemini
Venus is retrograde in your social zone, so this is a hint that you’re spending too much time partying and not enough time developing deeper, meaningful friendships. Instead of quantity, focus on quality of interactions, spending more time with just one or two friends.
Virgo Zodiac Sign (Virgo Dates: 23 August to 22 September) During Venus Retrograde in Gemini
Venus retrogrades in your ambitions and career zone, suggesting a difficult few weeks in terms of self-worth and getting along with colleagues. You may struggle to get the respect or recognition you deserve, but it’s important to remember that this is just a phase. You’ll get through it.
Libra Zodiac Sign (Libra Dates: 23 September to 22 October) During Venus Retrograde in Gemini
During this retrograde, the focus is on travel and wisdom. Instead of expecting other people or situations to have answers for you, try going within to find what you need. Exotic destinations aren’t what will give your life meaning – listen to your own heart instead.
Scorpio Zodiac Sign (Scorpio Dates: 23 October to 21 November) During Venus Retrograde in Gemini
Retrograde Venus is in the transformation zone of your natal chart, suggesting that the power of love can truly be healing at this time. Focus on forgiveness, both of yourself and of others, and ensure that you are totally sincere in how you interact with others. By opening your heart, you’re freeing yourself.
Sagittarius Zodiac Sign (Sagittarius Dates: 22 November to 20 December) During Venus Retrograde in Gemini
Venus retrograde in your love zone is tricky to handle – during this period, focus carefully on what your partner truly wants and needs from you, rather than assuming that you already know. The emphasis is on listening and responding, not on making selfish demands.
Capricorn Zodiac Sign (Capricorn Dates: 21 December to 19 January) During Venus Retrograde in Gemini
This retrograde period activates your mental health zone, encouraging you to take time out or to step back from a situation you’re finding too stressful. Reach out for help from trusted allies and don’t be afraid to simply walk away from something or someone who does not value you.
Aquarius Zodiac Sign (Aquarius Dates: 20January to 17 February) During Venus Retrograde in Gemini
With Retrograde Venus in your dating zone, this is not an ideal time for forming new relationships. This retrograde also clouds your judgement when it comes to taking risks, so be very sure that you know what you’re getting into before you try something new, especially in your love life.
Pisces Zodiac Sign (Pisces Dates: 18 February to 19 March) During Venus Retrograde in Gemini
This retrograde period highlights your family zone and speaks of the need for forgiveness and calm where there has been discord. Use this opportunity to heal and to set up healthier family habits for the future – everyone concerned can learn from this energy.
*Note: The exact date and time Venus turns retrograde in Gemini will differ depending on your timezone. This planet update was published the day before Venus turned retrograde in Gemini in Eastern Standard Time (EST) in the year 2020, which was May 13, 2020 @ 02:45 AM.
Mercury Turns Direct in Cancer
Jupiter Turns Direct in Capricorn
Saturn turns Direct in Capricorn
Neptune Stationed Direct in Pisces
