Venus Retrograde Survival Guide

What is a retrograde?

When a planet goes retrograde, it appears to be moving backward in its orbit (from the perspective of Earth.) This happens because of the differences in orbital speed between the Earth and the other planet. It is important to note that the planet is not actually moving backward, but rather it is an optical illusion caused by the relative motion of the Earth and the planet.

What does Venus represent?

Venus is the planet that governs our needs, values & relationships.

How often does it happen?

Venus goes into retrograde on average about every 18 months.

How long does it last?

Venus retrograde lasts for around 40 days at a time.

How does it effect people?

During Venus retrograde, a lot people will feel unsatisfied in the way that their needs are (or not) being met. It can cause feelings of loneliness or unfulfillment through the retrograde period. Often this will be felt more prominently with those who are in relationships but bear in mind that any level of relationship, be it romantic or professional could be affected by needs not being met. Another important point to note that is a lot of the time overlooked, it how we meet our own needs. Ultimately we are most responsible for ourselves and our own personal satisfaction, so be aware that most people actually struggle with meeting their own needs during the Venus Retrograde season. Remember also that how others treat us is so often a reflection of how we treat ourselves - so if you feel as though your needs are being ignored, analyse how you’re currently meeting them yourself.

Another thing people are frequently affected by when Venus is retrograde is  their values being tested. This could manifest as a lack of commitment or alignment to your core beliefs and morals or people in your life suddenly or repeatedly showing you that they aren’t in alignment with you. Important relationships may start to seem pointless and/or burdensome as the differences between you become highlighted. For others, their values may seem as clear as day to them however they may repeatedly be experiencing blockages despite their best efforts to try to actualise their values. Some may even find themselves falling back into old habits that are out of alignment with their current values and healing status.

Finally, some people during Venus retrograde have issues in their relationships. As aforementioned, the differences in personal values and a lack of needs being met are usually the cause for relationship breakdowns during this transit, however they won’t be the only reason. Relationships are tested when Venus is in retrograde and it’s up to the individuals in the relationships to work hard on operating as a unit as opposed to letting the planets dictate to your connection. For those who are in relationships that they want to get out of, this retrograde can often provide the push of confidence needed to make the first step.

What to avoid?

Avoid making impulsive decisions regarding your relationships during Venus retrograde. If you generally feel content in your relationships try not to let menial things ruin what you have. If however, you are unhappy in your relationship then make a conscious effort to avoid patching over fundamental flaws in your partnership. Address them or make the choice to leave so that you don’t end up stagnated in a place that’s draining you and leading you astray from your purpose and fulfilment.

Avoid overspending. You may feel an urge to overindulge financially during Venus retrograde. Don’t make any unnecessary or impulsive purchases. If you have financial goals, commit to them and don’t let yourself become easily influenced by consumerism and material gain. Instead explore other ways of pleasure seeking that provide healing such as working on your root, sacral or heart chakra.

Avoid isolating during this time. Many people feel a need to withdraw and keep themselves hidden away during Venus retrograde but it will be in your best interest not to avoid social interaction. If you’re feeling unfulfilled in a relationship then face the issue so that you can work towards a better outcome. Whether it be in a workplace, a romantic connection or a friend or family member - remember problems don’t get solved without being addressed. Even if that means disconnecting due to a misalignment of values.

What should you do?

During Venus retrograde, I would advise reevaluating your values to ensure you’re living in alignment so that you can make necessary adjustments if required. Have grace for yourself in this process and understand that ebbs ands flows are natural and acknowledgement can help you get back on track. Seek out methods of fulfilment to empower yourself and be responsible for your happiness. It’s also a good idea during Venus retrograde to begin saving money if you aren’t already and try to arrange and commit to doing things with others.

• Saving Challenge

• Self Care Practice

• Shadow Work

• Address Relationship Issues

• Realign with Your Values

• Work on your Root Chakra

• Work on your Sacral Chakra

• Work on your Heart Chakra

• Connect with Loved Ones

What will provide support?

Crystals:

Chrysocolla - Feeling Unloved

Fluorite - Better Judgement

Rhodonite - Compassion

Pink Tourmaline - Emotional Balance

Clear Quartz - Clarity

Herbs:

Rose - Love

Sweet Grass - Harmony

Blue Lotus - Inner Peace

Motherwort - Calm

Hibiscus - Self Love

Yoga:

Child’s Pose - Introspection

Reclining Bound Ankle Pose - Self Love

Bridge Pose - Love

Lunges - Emotional Release

Seated Forward Fold - Reflection

Affirmations:

I honor my needs, and I communicate them with love and clarity

I align my actions with my deepest values and authentic self.

I am worthy of love, kindness, and respect, both from myself and others.

I release attachments to old patterns that no longer serve my highest purpose.

I trust the process of introspection and allow myself to evolve.

Shadow prompts:

How do I neglect my own needs?

How are my unmet needs connected to my childhood?

How am I living my values and where needs more commitment?

What are my relationship non-negotiables?

How do my triggers manifest in the moment?

What is the lesson?

How Retrogrades affect you depends on how you are currently navigating your life, Issues during Rx are just highlights of the areas we need to address. Some people may experience more positive experiences during Rx due to the fact that the planet was Rx at their time of birth, whilst other may have a more intense time. Some people will have no untoward experiences at all, sometimes because they are unaware of the effects, or because they are in alignment and there is nothing for them to learn at this time. The important thing is, not to go looking for problems, being aware of how the energy can show up can allow you to prepare for it and ground yourself through it. Use this survival guide as an empowerment tool rather that a reason to worry. Overall, trust yourself and the universe enough to surrender, relinquish control!