Mercury might be the one with the bad rep, but Venus in retrograde 2023 is definitely going to feel a little tense, particularly when it comes to romantic matters.
Whether you're a star sign that always wants an ex back or you consider yourself one of the more sexually satisfied star signs, the planet's backward spin in Leo might make things tricky for everyone.
As you've likely realized while perusing your weekly horoscope (July 17 to July 23), the transit is about to begin, strategically in time for the weekend. Fortunately, the pros are on hand to guide us through any turbulence. (And yes, they promise it won't be so bad, so there's no need to panic.)
Venus in retrograde 2023: everything to know
When is Venus in retrograde in 2023?
Venus retrograde will take place from Thursday, July 22, to Sunday, September 3, 2023. The transit is happening in the fire sign, Leo.
"This planetary shift will affect everyone to some degree, but those who have Leo prominent in their chart may feel its influence more strongly," says Solaris The Hii Priestess. "Venus retrograde affects the area of life ruled by Venus, which includes our values, relationships, and pleasures. With Venus retrograde in Leo which rules the 5th house, there may be a focus on reevaluating our romantic relationships, creative talents, and self-expression."
What should we expect from Venus retrograde?
During Venus in Retrograde, there might be disagreements with your S.O. or doubt from either party. Now more than ever, you're examining your partnership from an honest point of view. Is this what you want? What's working? What needs some tweaking? Take a step back and approach whatever situation you're in with a cool head.
"The fact that Leo is a Fixed sign means you should look out for more resistance and stubborn energy between you and your partner," says astrologer Iva Naskova of Nebula. "It is more likely to take your time and rethink, reevaluate, and reconsider many essential keys of your love life, including your choice of partner."
Additionally, Neptune retrograde will kick off right around the same time. Though the mention of "retrograde" upsets us, this particular planetary shift will help us see things clearly. The rose-colored glasses are going to come off, according to the professionals, so you can possibly expect an a-ha moment in your relationship.
Who will be experiencing the planet's shift? Everyone, really, but there are a select few members of the zodiac that can expect more intensity when it comes to Venus' movements.
"Venus retrograde in Leo brings opportunities for growth and transformation around matters of the heart and creative expression," Solaris The Hii Priestess adds. "Those with Leo, Aquarius, Taurus, and Scorpio prominent in their chart may feel the effects more strongly."
What are the benefits of Venus retrograde?
Like any good retrograde, the reevaluating process might lead you toward a situation that's more suitable for you. Sure, that might not be easy to accept, but consider it some tough love from the cosmos.
"Retrograde Venus might be the push you need toward a better future," Naskova notes. "Disruption and breakups are more likely in relationships that were already damaged and headed that way. But for those whose bond is strong and stable, this transit can significantly help to realize what you want from the relationship and how you can make improvements."
Throughout this transit, you might realize how to better communicate with your partner and make your connection stronger going forward. Also, for those who are looking for romance, this could be a time to rekindle an old flame or revisit an old relationship, which could have its own set of pros and cons.
"For single people, it is the perfect moment to deal with loose ends from the past and gain closure," Naskova adds. "Yes, there are incredibly high chances for your ex to call, text, or bump into them, but perhaps that is exactly what you need to move forward from your heartbreak."
What should we do during Venus retrograde?
Naskova breaks down a few recs, depending on your status.
For singles, it's all about putting your previous relationship to rest and seeing what else is out there for you. And for pairs, it's all about moving onward and upward.
"For those whose bond is strong and stable, this transit can significantly help to realize what you want from the relationship and how you can make improvements," she adds.
For those who are still a bit on edge, fear not. Venus might throw us a curveball or two, but dating experts say "superbloom" relationships are on the rise, so we know they'll be plenty of moments to swoon over this summer.
For more cosmic intel, check out our guide to what planet is in retrograde.
Iva Naskova is a Western Astrologer at Nebula: Horoscope&Astrology Platform. Iva has over seven years of experience. Helping people to figure out love and career matters and find their inner peace using astrology is what Ivana is most passionate about.
Solaris the Hii Priestess is an Austin-based tarot reader, astrologer and newly published author—y.o.u. Your own universe, a children’s astrology book— is known for her contemporary method of divination using tarot. She has been featured at various festivals, such as: Mala Luna, SXSW, ACL and more.
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