If you’re an astrology junkie, you’re no stranger to the infamous Mercury retrograde. You know, that time when it feels like everything has gone to sh*t, and it seems to happen multiple times a year? But what do you know about Venus retrograde?Â
Yep, hate to break it to you, bestie, but every planet can go retrograde, and none other than our planet of love, Venus, is going retrograde this summer. But fear not! We’re used to all the negativity that comes from Mercury retrograde, but that’s not the case for all the planets. In fact, Venus Retrograde might just bring your steamiest summer yet.Â
Every planet brings different areas to reflect on during retrograde. Venus is the planet of love, beauty, money, art, and aesthetics, so there are many things to consider when journaling or manifesting.
Venus will retrograde from July 22 to Sept 3, reversing through fiery Leo, which will surely shake up some love lives. But don’t get too worried now. Summer is the season of love — with things like beachside books and iconic shows like TSITP, romance is just bound to happen at some point.
What even is Venus Retrograde?
That’s the million-dollar question. Basically, every 18 months, Venus goes retrograde, meaning it starts turning the opposite way, which will happen for 40 days and 40 nights this summer.Â
With this Venus retrograde taking place in the prideful, fiery sign of Leo, the planet of love seems to hint at taking more of an inner focus this summer. Boo!
But no worries, just because you’re focusing on self-love doesn’t mean you have to isolate romantic connections completely. Just make sure you’re checking in with yourself during Venus retrograde, and you’ll be fine.Â
How will Venus Retrograde affect me?
That’s why you’re here, right? So without further ado, let me answer how this cosmic chaos will affect you. Fair warning, Taurus, you might wanna sit down for this.Â
Aries (March 20 – April 19):
Aries, you might find yourself having a greater need for independence than normal during this retrograde. Tap into that, but also be aware that you might have an ex reaching out (this retrograde is in your fifth house of self-expression and romance, double whammy), hoping to gain some closure. Don’t let their presence make you forget about why you’re no longer with them. Not everything is a sign from the universe to get back together. (Oops, telling you because I wish someone would’ve told me!)
Taurus (April 20 – May 20):
Oh, my sweet Taurus, this retrograde is happening in your ruling planet of Venus and going through your fourth house of home life, so your entire life might feel a little chaotic. You might find yourself feeling a little possessive about your relationships this month. Maybe you’ve gotten into something new or feel some type of way over your platonic or family relations. No matter the situation, make sure you aren’t suffocating someone to hold them close. Just communicate, and you’ll find your way out of the mess!
Gemini (May 21 – June 20):
Venus is affecting your third house of communication, so it might be a good time to get in touch with how you’re truly feeling. Maybe you have something you really need to get off your chest; if so, it’s the perfect time to start expressing your authentic self. Whether through journaling, calling a friend over the phone, or setting up a time to talk in person. You must make yourself heard this summer.Â
Cancer (June 21 – July 22):
Cancers are always into feeling secure, but the Venus retrograde is heightening that a little bit. Instead of just focusing on emotional security, it might be a good time to look more into your monetary habits, Cancer, as Venus is retrograding in your second house of money and resources. Maybe it’s time to finally sit down with a partner (or just yourself) and have an uncomfortable conversation. It’ll be worth it in the long run!Â
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22):
Leo, this retrograde is happening in your sign, so it’s expected you’re going to be taking it pretty hard. Venus will highlight your house of identity (which is huge), so make sure to tap into your inner thoughts this summer. Do you like the person you are? Do you enjoy the path you’re on? It’s time to see if your identity is lining up with the picture you have for your life; if not, it’s the perfect time for reinvention!Â
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22):
Venus will be retrograding in your 12th house of isolation and introspection, which sounds a bit intimidating. But don’t worry, Virgo, this is a perfect time to reflect and set clear boundaries for yourself. Don’t get too caught up in your own head, though. Maybe call up an old friend to grab a coffee. Just remember to surround yourself with people who are going to lift you higher.Â
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22):
My fellow Libras, be aware of old people popping back into your life during Venus retrograde. Venus is moving through your house of networking, meaning there will be many opportunities to connect with others. Be sure that you’re engaging in relationships that bring you peace and not just connecting with others to be a people-pleaser. Focus on spending your energy on people who lift you up and bring you joy. You deserve it!
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21):
Sweet, sweet Scorpio, this retrograde takes place in your 10th house of career and public image. So if things haven’t exactly been going your way in your career, now is the perfect time to flip the narrative or even embark on something new. It’s also a great time to reflect on how you have been presenting yourself via social media or IRL and if that represents who you truly are. Don’t be afraid to lower your mask, Scorpio. Â
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21):
Oh, Sag, this Venus retrograde will be taking place in your ninth house of travel and philosophy. You’re very centered in your beliefs, but this retrograde might be a good time to reflect on why you have these views in the first place. Are they truly your own? Or were you influenced by those around you? To uncover the reasoning for your belief system, it might be a good idea to get out of your head and expand your horizons. Maybe a nice little day trip is in order.Â
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19):
All kinds of joint relations are going to be heightened for you during Venus retrograde, Cap. Venus is running through your eighth house of shared resources and personal boundaries, so there is an important emphasis on your intimate relationships. It can be hard for you to tap into your emotions, but it’s important to focus on that this month. Whether it’s focusing on how you’re feeling about yourself or others, it’s something that you shouldn’t overlook anymore.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18):
It might be time to do your least favorite thing, Aquarius — focus on your commitments (oops). This retrograde falls in your seventh house of partnership. Maybe you’ve been spending a lot of time with someone, and it’s time to reflect on where you want it to go. Instead of just getting overwhelmed and ghosting, take the time to actually sit with your emotions and figure out what you want. Communication is most important here!
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 19):
Pisces, this retrograde won’t be too crazy for you. It falls in your sixth house of wellness, which means you get to focus on finding all the things that make you feel good. Make sure to brainstorm and reflect on when you feel your best and try to bring that into your daily routine. Remember to actually make a plan and incorporate these routines and not just daydream about them. This is a perfect time to be selfish and see what and who makes you feel your best.