When we think of retrogrades, we often focus on two phases:
The planet going retrograde
The planet going direct
However, there's much more to it. During retrogrades of personal planets (Mercury, Venus, and Mars), we experience five stages:
Entering the Shadow: Reflection begins.
Stationing Retrograde: Reconsideration.
Meeting the Sun: The "a-ha" moment and turning point.
Stationing Direct: New perspectives emerge.
Leaving the Shadow: Moving forward and integration.
On March 2, Venus goes retrograde. By examining the timeline, we can gain a clearer understanding of its personal impact.
Step 1: Venus entered her shadow on January 28. From January 28 through March 2, we've been in a pre-retrograde phase. Reflect on the past few weeks:
What themes have emerged regarding creativity, love, and self-worth? Has it been fulfilling?
Are there financial or relationship patterns that need review?
What is your heart and intuition telling you? Are you compromising in any areas? What situations make you feel insecure about your value and sense of belonging?
Step 2: March 2 to April 12 – Venus goes retrograde. This is a time to pause and reflect. Reassess partnerships, relationships, desires, self-worth, and hidden emotions. Feelings of betrayal or jealousy may arise. Honor both the light and dark aspects of these feelings.
It's not the best time for major decisions. Instead, observe, reflect, and process.
Step 3: March 23 – The Sun and Venus align. This day can bring an "a-ha" moment, with emerging insights.
Step 4: April 13 – Venus stations direct. We begin to integrate what we've learned. A new path emerges with a clearer understanding.
Step 5: May 16 – Venus leaves her shadow. Turmoil shifts into understanding. It's a turning point for values and creativity, allowing for forgiveness.
Venus will retrograde from 10º Aries to 24º Pisces. If you have planets or angles within these degrees, you'll feel the retrograde more deeply.
Aries Themes:
Are you honoring your independence or seeking validation?
Do you assert your needs in partnerships or hold back?
What does honoring your true self mean to you?
Pisces Themes:
Are you idealizing relationships? Are they truly fulfilling?
Where have you not set boundaries in love and finances?
How can you connect to your intuition and inner world?
Are you sacrificing too much?
How can you connect with your creative flow?
Also to deepen your awareness of this cycle, consider what happened in 2017. Similar unresolved themes or issues may resurface during this retrograde.
Following planetary cycles enriches our lives. Personally, learning astrology has been the ultimate teacher, embracing our vulnerabilities and highlighting our gifts. As I delved deeper into the cosmic dance of the planets, I found a profound connection between celestial movements and my own life's journey. It has guided me through times of uncertainty, offering clarity and insight when I needed it most.
Astrology has not only deepened my understanding of the universe but also fostered a greater appreciation for my unique path. It's a lifelong study that continues to inspire me, revealing the hidden strengths and lessons within each challenge. Embracing astrology has allowed me to honor my true self, and in turn, has enriched my relationships, creativity, and overall well-being. ✨
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