Venus

the birth of venus

Venus in Capricorn ⚢ Jan 23 - Feb 16

Jan 23 – Feb 16, 2016

Click here to learn about Venus. Click here to learn about Capricorn.

Venus in Sagittarius started off splendidly. People were light and social for the first time in awhile, but then Venus’ jubilant little fire dance was drowned out by other more powerful planetary influences. I’m going to repost these lines from Rumi’s poem titled Tattooing in Qazwin because god damn they were very appropriate: “Brother, stand the pain. / Escape the poison of your impulses. / The sky will bow to your beauty, if you do. / Learn to light the candle.”

I’ve had a revelation that the Goddess of Love is just the one we need to channel the sea goat’s unrelenting lessons.

An ode: O Venus, gentle soul, we eagerly await your graceful entry. Soothe our weary hearts, bathe us in soft light. Fold us in to understanding, support, recognition, unconditional love for Self and others. Please bring peace to the women of this aching planet. Great uniter of yin and yang, wash away our anger. In eternal bloom, creating unto Creation, draw us in to the breast of Shakti and Ishtar.

I hope - I think - I believe - that Venus in Capricorn will reveal the child inside every bloodthirsty warrior. Even the most savage of beings were once tiny infants crying for mother’s milk. This information is not novel - no, this is all about remembering. The rate of change on this planet is entirely dependent upon the rate at which we remember.

The purpose of all this remembering is to bring us back down to earth - let the clay cool from the kiln, little starseeds. Become fully grounded again, reconnected to your foundation. Venus in Capricorn will demonstrate what to do with all this cold hard pragmatism lying around like cinder blocks. It’s not meant for rampant calcification of the heart, that’s for sure. Let’s settle down, settle in, but without judgment. Venus in Capricorn treats life like business or school. This is not to say that we are impersonal or objectifying, just cautious, steadfast, intelligent, clearheaded.

Seems like we’re all trying to figure out how to be superhuman right now, invincible to everything and everyone, but you know what? This very noble quest is bound to fail again and again if we keep beating ourselves up every time we stumble. Venus in Capricorn will teach us how to employ incredible emotional strength by way of self-compassion. There is nothing more sexy or critically important than this kind of resolve.

That loud inner realist begging for truth has been trailing the wrong mentor. Who could navigate the steep cliffs of the Divine Masculine better than Venus, ultimate cosmic woman born from starry depths? Who else could find such infinite beauty in the most jagged of planes? If you’re truly prepared, the people who enter your life now will all come together to support you on this arduous journey. But if you want others to be loyal, reliable, ready to commit to your cause, then step up and be that for yourself first. Tear it down, who gives a shit, and begin again with utmost sincerity.

Emotionally charged issues will suddenly lose their power. We will easily express ourselves now without succumbing to martyrdom or moodiness. Self-confident, independent, no praise necessary to keep moving. In fact, you may have an overwhelming desire to do everything by yourself. This is structure and management done right. Let’s clean up, babies. I suggest copious meditation and some Capricorn Yoga.

If you were born with Venus in Capricorn, this month is your Venus Return. If you don’t know your personal Venus sign, click here.

Mantra: I create my reality

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Venus in Sagittarius ⚢ Dec 30 - Jan 23

Dec 30, 2015 – Jan 23, 2016

Click here to learn about Venus. Click here to learn about Sagittarius.

Venus in Scorpio has been just as inspiring as it has been challenging. Scorpio is the sign of transformation and rebirth, but we are graced by this new light only after the wounded heart, the spirit’s agony. Under this influence, Venus is suspicious, probing, beholden to compulsions. So the Goddess of Love will now burn through Sagittarius for a little pick-me-up. Although the Sagittarius season has just ended, we’ll revisit the party to catch his luckiest stars. Venus last transited Sagittarius from Nov-Dec 2014. Themes that surface now are a reflection of our progress since then.

Dialing back for a moment, I remember the day Venus entered Scorpio. I had an energetic release that left my entire face numb and tears leaking into my ears. This was the first whisper of the scorpion’s ultimate lesson: not until we break down do we break through. At the beginning of this transit, the scorpion unsheathed her stinger, poised to destroy, but just as Shiva rebuilds the world from utter ruin, so too does the powerful scorpion. In the end, this transit was less about sex than it was healthy self-discovery. The passion we sought in interpersonal relationships was really intended for fierce Self-love. I learned once again that the most meaningful and important connection we’ll ever make in life is with the Self.

Now we have Venus in Sagittarius where she’ll be in great need of stimulation. Time to go out meeting people and mixing it up. Sagittarius is a restless beast who must wander freely, dashing this way and that, excitedly and endlessly exploring.

I’ve learned by now that Sagittarius is not all sunshine and rainbows. The centaur archer’s ultimate lesson is justice and Truth. You may run until you can’t breathe anymore, but these horse legs do not tire, my friend. Speak your truth now lest it rears its magnificent head in the middle of a would-be sparkling holiday chit-chat. Venus in Sagittarius glimmers and gleams beneath the light, so that’s where she prefers to stay. Forget grand ideals and fairness for all; if Truth abides somewhere cold or dark or desolate, Venus in Sagittarius will immediately speed off toward the nearest star. Resist the urge to flee. A few lines from Jelaluddin Rumi’s poem titled Tattooing in Qazwin: “Brother, stand the pain. / Escape the poison of your impulses. / The sky will bow to your beauty, if you do. / Learn to light the candle.”

I visualize Venus in Sag as a party to which everyone is invited. Sagittarius is a web of acquaintances; abiding faith in humanity; spontaneous conversation with a stranger; good vibrations; a carefree attitude. We are determined to expand now, particularly through higher learning. You may talk more about philosophical subjects, for example. The centaur archer is not known for being deep or intense, but that does not mean that he is not profound or insightful in his own lighthearted way.

Bumps and bruises sustained during Venus in Scorpio will heal now. Take a deep breath and relax, ascend from the scorpion’s deep black cave. Venus in Sagittarius draws us out and into our surroundings. Suddenly the gigantic supernatural whirlpool in the heart bursts forth with a sigh of relief (feeling -> moving).

What do we gain by focusing on the negative? Nothing! I find it helpful to illuminate what to watch out for, but I really hope you just climb on the centaur’s back without a second thought and rocket toward the next brilliant horizon.

You have a choice, standing here with nothing left between you and Truth. We fool ourselves into believing otherwise, but there is no separation. May you feel empowered, may you hold strong. Say it kindly, whatever it is. Step in to the light without guilt or judgment and don’t look away. I suggest a ritual involving fire and/or some Sagittarius Yoga.

If you were born with Venus in Sagittarius, this month is your Venus Return! If you don’t know your personal Venus sign, click here.

Mantra: expand

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Venus in Scorpio ⚢ Dec 4 - 30

December 4 - 30, 2015

Click here to learn about Venus. Click here to learn about Scorpio.

Venus has been hanging out in Libra since November 8. Tough stuff, seriously. I’m glad it’s ending. The Scorpio season is long over, but let’s revisit her lair for the next few weeks on the wings of Venus, Goddess of Love. Venus last transited Scorpio in October/November 2014. Themes that surface now are a reflection of our progress since then.

I distinctly remember the day Venus entered Libra. Heavy relationship issues were broached - finally - and then released with a torrent of love and understanding. I looked forward to a magical few weeks of easy breezy smiles and sunshine. But damn, Libra is a sneaky goddess! Just when you think she’s left you to your own devices, SLAM, suddenly you’re neck-deep in something really nasty. To be honest, I’m not sure I passed her test this time. We’re still getting to know each other, Libra and I. Let it suffice to say that I am continually impressed and surprised by her tenacity. In any case, congratulations everyone on making it through the past three weeks :)

Now we have Venus in Scorpio: unadulterated passion, powerful, transformative, craving profound soul connections and sexual transcendence. Drunk on the sheer intensity of emotion, our wants become needs. Scorpio’s mantra is I desire…sexy sexy.

Make no mistake, the scorpion is fixed in nature, fiercely driven by lust. Scorpio stops at nothing to get her fix, whatever it may be. We’ll get to the bottom of things, whether we want to or not, as the scorpion is unsatisfied with surface living. She is extreme, all or nothing, intimate, sensual. Love is ardent with Venus in Scorpio. You may have the urge to become so close to someone that attraction consumes you entirely, but this you won’t mind. Singular, blinding, unstoppable, uninterested in small talk or superficiality, Scorpio loves the ocean floor, the psyche’s dark well, the locked basement closet – but why? Diving to the bottom brings us to the breaking point, breaking through. Blackest black gives way to overwhelming light, blotting out even the Self…enlightenment. This is the true goal of the scorpion, to find the edge and then careen at full speed straight into the abyss: renewal through obliteration.

Venus in Scorpio represents divine eternal union, the stitching together of yin and yang. When taken to the extreme, she is suspicious, possessive, jealous. This shadow is rooted in the fear of losing power. In classic astrology, the scorpion is associated with greed, control and fear. When this water element is flowing properly, there’s nothing but spirit. It’s time to test the strength of your intuition and faith in the Universe.

I would love to tell you that the drama’s over, but the scorpion feels more alive when there is a crisis at hand! Because she is so enamored by complexity and volatility, relationships often suffer during this transit. Venus in Scorpio has lots of feelings and sexual/emotional/psychic energy, so things are bound to get messy at times. Venus in Scorpio is drawn to all things taboo, morbid, sexually aberrant, mystical and metaphysical.

Enter the heart and gut and you’ll find the scorpion swimming, swirling, feeling, creating a gigantic supernatural whirlpool. She’s a hot-blooded kiss on the lips, fervent, vehement, chasing her prey with all of her being. Dig in, ask yourself what is the meaning? Twist in, penetrate to the core. Feel out your surroundings through the subconscious.

Scorpio hates feeling vulnerable, and yet, strangely enough, this is what she desires most: soul stripped naked, nothing left between her and Truth. She wants to be taken care of, but not used. Supported, but still empowered. The Goddess of Night enjoys shocking people. This should not be taken too seriously. Let her be dark. Her words and actions are a performance, a way for others to see the witches’ dance within her. Enjoy the show.

If you were born with Venus in Scorpio, this month is your Venus Return! If you don’t know your personal Venus sign, click here.

Mantra: I move within

the birth of venus

Venus Retrograde in Leo ⚢ July 31 - Sep 6

Venus turns retrograde in Leo from July 31 - Sep 6, 2015

Click here to learn about Venus. Click here to learn about Leo.

To be very clear, planets in retrograde are not actually spinning backwards – it is entirely an optical illusion as seen from Earth. Backwards motion appears to happen when Earth passes slower moving planets in the outer solar system. In astrology, this illusion manifests as “backwards” functioning of the planets and their respective roles. Click here to learn more about retrograde motion.

As the word retrograde implies, it’s time to go back, to finish, review, redo. Venus Retrograde started in Virgo a few days ago, but now she backtracks into Leo. When Venus is retrograde, it is not advisable to make major changes to your home or personal appearance, as these aspects of life are ruled by the Goddess of Love. According to CafeAstrology, when Venus is Retrograde “…we don’t seem to be in touch with exactly what and who we value, or, some might say we are seeing things more or too clearly.”

Venus Retrograde in Leo

Venus transited Leo the first week of June until just over a week ago - so we’re back for round 2. Let’s wax poetic on the nature of Venus Retrograde in this fixed fire sign. Venus wants us to be happy and comfortable, especially in our relationships with others. The retrograde period puts tremendous strain on friendships and partnerships. Venus Rx in Leo emphasizes the Self above all else. This theme is a holdover from Venus Rx in Virgo, although it manifests differently here. Venus Retrograde in Virgo draws us back to the Self in a way that feels uncomfortable yet cathartic. Virgo doesn’t always appreciate herself as she feels guilty when she is not at the service of others, so Venus Rx in Virgo asks us to cultivate loyalty to our own code, to treat the Self with the same care, diligence and precision so thoughtfully and dutifully exercised with others.

With Venus Rx in Leo, the heart stands tall. It’s time to rework our relationship to the Self in a way that is both honest and loving. At times you may crave love and attention from others, but this is only because you will be eager to share newfound affection and devotion. Spreading warmth and joy is a way for others to see and acknowledge how hard Leo has been working on becoming a better person. The lion loves nothing more than to feel needed. In actuality, Venus Retrograde in Leo clings fiercely to love in order to free the Self from the ego’s vice grip: liberation through the trials and triumphs of the heart. We also see this contradiction in the fact that Leos love to be right, but only because it allows them to better help others.

However! From CafeAstrology:

Affection is difficult to express in a natural or spontaneous manner. We might find others are lacking in sincerity or genuineness in their expressions of social niceties. (We may be inclined to do the same!) … It’s hard to trust others just now, and, perhaps more so, it’s difficult to trust our own instincts … People might appear to be more selfish, withdrawn, and self-protective.

The ego joins the table

Venus now encourages us to be firm in our sense of Self and deal with conflict head-on. Venus Retrograde in Leo invites the ego for dinner but then never asks him to leave. Venus in Leo lives fearlessly from the heart, often saying things in the heat of the moment that may be perfectly true but perhaps not so pretty on the ears. When taken to the extreme, Venus in Leo creates drama just for the sake of making life interesting. Leonine fixed energy is forcefully expansive and needs somewhere to go! If caught in a weak moment of boredom or stagnation, we may overstate reality to create momentary excitement, respite from the humdrum. Another possibility is over-indulgence: spending too much money, going out excessively etc.

This transit provides opportunities to finally say everything that has been slowly ripening within. Venus Retrograde often marks the end of significant relationships - not because incidents occur, but because we have enough confidence at last to speak up. For those who are especially sensitive to Venusian energy, this aspect will be more prominent. Almost every time that Venus Retrograde occurs, a relationship ends in my life! It is very important to surrender to the impulse to communicate when it arises. This urge indicates that a window of divine timing has opened. From CafeAstrology:

When breakups do occur in the second half of a Venus retrograde cycle, I have noticed they are imperfect. They are not often clean breaks. Couples and friends may reunite later or if they stay broken up, they might often wonder if it was the right thing to do - something is often left hanging. Venus retrograde is a period for clearing the decks and dealing with the past so as to move forward fresh and re-energized …

Venus Retrograde wants to feel at home, both physically and psychologically; you may move to a new residence or question whether you’re in the “right place.” Venus Retrograde gets us “in touch with our deeper, less obvious, and less superficial needs and wants.” (Cafe Astrology) This vibration lends itself nicely to the feeling of “all things fated” that seems unique to Venus Retrograde. Venus in Leo is usually a very social time, but planning major social engagements is not advised now. This is probably fortuitous because Venus in Leo has a tendency to talk more, especially about the self, and listen less.

Many of you were born when Venus was retrograde. Those with this disposition may not feel the effects of this period as much, if at all. To find your Venus sign and whether she was direct or retrograde at the time of your birth, click here.

If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: my heart speaks

venus

Venus Retrograde in Virgo ⚢ July 25 -31

Venus turns retrograde in Virgo from July 25 - 31 and then in Leo from July 31 - Sep 6

Click here to learn about Venus. Click here to learn about Virgo.

To be very clear, planets in retrograde are not actually spinning backwards – it is entirely an optical illusion as seen from Earth. Backwards motion appears to happen when Earth passes slower moving planets in the outer solar system. In astrology, this illusion manifests as “backwards” functioning of the planets and their respective roles. Click here to learn more about retrograde motion.

As the word “retrograde” implies, it’s time to go back, to finish, review, redo. Venus turns retrograde about once every 18 months for 6 weeks. When Venus is retrograde, it is not advisable to make major changes to your home or personal appearance, as these aspects of life are ruled by the Goddess of Love. Venus indicates our tastes and pleasures - value comes to mind. She wants us to be happy and comfortable, especially in our relationships with others. Venus Retrograde therefore puts tremendous strain on our friendships and partnerships.

Venus Retrograde in Virgo

We’ve discussed Venus entering Virgo as of July 18. Let’s wax poetic on the nature of Venus Retrograde in this mutable earth sign. As ruler of fixed earth sign Taurus, Venus demonstrates her need for security and sensuality. In cardinal air sign Libra, Venus reveals her love for harmony, beauty and balance. And in Virgo? Her role in the grand harvest. The Virgo cycle coincides with autumn in the northern hemisphere. From the Alchemical Journey:

[T]he crop must be cut down in its prime, harvested and its essence extracted … We experience Virgo whenever we are examined, judged, cut down to size, as wheat is sorted from chaff … The harvest goddess shapes and moulds our spontaneous impulses into practical, useful, sustainable projects that serve the greater good. She strips away our indulgences, hones our creative instincts and transforms our promises into everyday miracles, like golden wheat being turned into the food that nourishes a community.

I love this interpretation of the virgin as it’s one that we certainly don’t see very often in the astrology world. More from the Alchemical Journey:

…beyond the popular image of an innocent virgin, secretary or nit-picker, lies an experienced mistress of purification, discernment, and sexual control.

Let’s build our dialog around this powerful image: regaining bodily sovereignty. Our intention now is to get life in order, to purge that which is useless.

In yoga and other similar disciplines, enormous emphasis is placed on day-to-day observances such as cleaning and maintenance. What is the connection between the mundane and the extraordinary? The rote work entailed in any practice such as yoga demonstrates that spiritual insight cannot issue forth if proper arrangements have not been made beforehand on the terrestrial plane. The Alchemical Journey on this subject:

Through bringing mindfulness to our repetitive actions, honouring time, work and our body’s rhythms, we actually open up the possibility of transcending those ritual structures, and entering a liminal space between worlds where transformation can occur.

Virgo lives in the yamas and niyamas of yoga: the ethical principles. One of these is known as saucha or cleanliness. After each practice, the devoted yogi returns every prop and device to its rightful place; mats are cleaned; floors are swept. These simple yet fundamental acts prepare us to see our bodies and the spaces which they inhabit as one and the same, to be treated with equal love and respect. You would be hard-pressed to find a yogi, shaman or mystic who does not have an unwavering daily regimen. We slow now to ask: do my actions serve a greater purpose? Venus Rx in Virgo demands pragmatism and organization, but these are mere means to an end. We surrender to particular methods only so that we may understand their connection to those planes and dimensions in which there is no separation between body, spirit, time or space.

Virgo is the sign of the virgin, but this archetype seems to have taken on different connotations over time. Last quote from the Alchemical Journey:

She is a virgin in its older meaning, certainly, as one who owns her own body and chooses when and with whom to unite!

Venus Rx in Virgo asks us to give love simply by being available: perceptive, attentive. As much as Venus concerns herself with interpersonal relationships, the retrograde period draws us back to the Self. Virgo doesn’t like to see herself in the mirror. She feels guilty when she is not at the service of others. Let’s turn this highly receptive energy inward. Venus Rx in Virgo asks us to cultivate loyalty to our own code, to treat the Self with the same care, diligence and precision so thoughtfully and dutifully exercised with others. Venus Rx in Virgo requires dedication!

Venus Rx in Virgo is not the best time for new love or financial endeavors. She demonstrates that nothing is worth having if we do not feel at home within. I visualize Venus Rx in Virgo polishing the soul’s diamond until it gleams brightly from every facet. What needs dusting? Our first inclination may be to shy away from that which is actually a healing force. Let’s face and define blocks with the knowledge that, in so doing, we effectively dissolve their power. Indeed, to know the problem is to know the solution.

Venus is quite at home in Virgo, as she is accustomed to earth energy. I expect that we’ll find a groove quickly and with satisfaction. Nothing to fear :)

Many of you were born when Venus was retrograde. Those with this disposition may not feel the effects of this period as much, if at all. To find your Venus sign and whether she was direct or retrograde at the time of your birth, click here.

If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: purify

Venus in Virgo ⚢ July 18 - 31

Venus transits Virgo from July 18 – 31 and then from October 8 - November 8 due to a retrograde period

Click here to learn about Venus. Click here to learn about Virgo.

Venus moves from Leo into mutable earth Virgo! If Venus in Leo was the infatuation phase of a relationship, Venus in Virgo is the long-term humdrum. Virgo is masterful at keeping the train wheels moving by focusing on the importance of the day-to-day.

For the last month or so…

I feel that Venus in Leo was snuffed by all the Cancer energy in our skies. I was so excited about having some hot cat action that I completely ignored the other planets and the collective effect they would have on Venus. Normally Venus in Leo is a party animal: sexual, flirtatious, prowling around, mingling until dawn. This didn’t come through so much as themes of pride did - look at the Supreme Court decision on gay marriage! Perfect example. However, I believe our inclination to stay home and curl up on the couch was stronger than the desire to go out and get lit. In any case, we’ll have plenty of time for shenanigans when the rest of the planets move into Leo - yay!

Last year, Venus was the last of the inner planets to transit Virgo. This year, she’s the first. What to expect as the Goddess of Love makes her bed in the Virgo palace?

Channeling the Divine Virgin

The move now is from a hot-blooded heart to a reserved heart. The virgin typically represents purity and youth. Of course this does not mean that Venus in Virgo is innocent and virginal. This manifests as a confident self-image; buoyant optimism; curiosity; fearlessness in trying new things and meeting new people. When imbalanced, Venus in Virgo is critical, cynical, self-conscious. Virgo has a reputation in the astrology world for being a tad boring at times. I believe this stems from a need for control, but not necessarily in a domineering way. Venus in Virgo simply enjoys having control over her body and emotions. After the proud, fiery energy of Leo, Venus now encourages us to be practical (action –> thought). Retreat from the broiling sun to rest beneath a mighty oak. Feel the earth support your every need.

Although Virgo is an earth sign, the mutable modality puts an interesting twist on what is otherwise a very grounded sign. Virgo, unlike your typical Taurus or Capricorn, very much enjoys frequent changes in life. This includes changes in appearance, new activities, constant traveling and living in a way that might make other earth signs feel unstable. In Virgo’s realm, details are a priority, but their nature is always open to suggestion.

The service axis

The last time Venus transited Virgo was from September 5 – 29, 2014. Themes that surface now are a reflection of our progress since then. Studying the polarities of the zodiac wheel is an effective method to learn more about the signs. You may recall that Venus transited Pisces at the end of January. Pisces is Virgo’s opposite sign, 180 degrees across on the wheel. Venus in Virgo is pragmatic and organized; Venus in Pisces pensive, vague, abstract, mysterious. Both Virgo and Pisces tend to think a lot and say little - they are often shy, quiet types. Watch for the tendency to remain silent when it would be better to speak – Venus in Virgo internalizes! She is not prone to open or frequent emotional expression.

Unlike Virgo, Venus in Pisces would rather escape from the mind than try to analyze a troublesome situation. Venus in Virgo enjoys being rational, methodical, logical, particular. Both signs struggle to stay present as they are quite prone to daydreaming (Pisces) and over-thinking (Virgo). Venus in Pisces is not desperate for affection, as Virgo can sometimes be; Virgo often forgets, in the midst of endlessly working and preparing, that we are already directly linked to something impossibly beautiful and bountiful.

Selfless goddess

When the Goddess of Love seats herself at Virgo’s mirror, we show our love simply by being available, doing the little things for others. Venus in Virgo is selfless to the point that we may feel guilty if we focus too much on the Self. She is also cautious - our love is not given away to just anyone. We take our time to ask: is this sensible? Does this serve a useful purpose? Venus in Virgo is highly receptive. You’ll find that antennae have grown in your heart. You may try to make sense of your partner’s every word and action, wondering how their responses reflect upon you and your relationship. Increased sensitivity makes everything look like a sign, something to be picked apart. This is also because Venus in Virgo is so loyal - she operates with care, diligence and precision. When balanced, Venus in Virgo is modest and accepting of all.

Venus in Virgo is intensely driven to succeed and does not mind putting in the hours. She can be lazy, but the balanced Virgo will get right back to work without complaining or attempting to linger excessively in a state of leisure. Indeed Venus in Virgo defines herself by her work. Virgos have unmistakable pride here, especially when reflecting on all they had to do in order to achieve success. Venus is quite at home in Virgo, as she is accustomed to earth energy. I expect that we’ll find a groove quickly and with satisfaction, like sinking into a perfectly warm bath at the end of the night. However, Venus in Virgo can become trapped in ever-tightening circles of fear and paranoia – when imbalanced, it is not enough to simply be, to breathe and to love without questioning - she needs to know why and how.

If you were born with Venus in Virgo, this month is your Venus Return! If you don’t know your personal Venus sign, click here. If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: pure of heart

Venus in Leo ⚢ June 5 - July 18

Venus transits Leo from June 5 – July 18, 2015

Click here to learn about Venus. Click here to learn about Leo.

Venus now moves from Cancer into fixed fire Leo. Venus embodies the Divine Feminine: romance, beauty, pleasure, happiness and fine art. As she spins from sign to sign, changes take place within the heart. Venus concerns attraction: what vibes are you exuding and what attracts you? If Venus in cardinal water Cancer was the eternal bond of motherhood, Venus in Leo is a heat wave pouring from the heart chakra, blossoming and combusting into a huge flowery fireball. We’re ready to transform the heart so that it stands proudly, no longer cripplingly sensitive.

For the last month or so…

Our focus for the last month was on safety, comfort and security: getting rooted. Venus in Cancer asked: what makes you feel at home? The cardinal aspect of this transit manifested in the basic nature of our desires: settling down, getting in touch with the emotional body, feeling “in tune.” We were more sensitive and touchy than usual. I like to visualize Venus in Cancer as an exposed nerve, a soft underbelly: tender, moody, vulnerable. The crab allows fear and worry to override everything when imbalanced.

Last year, Venus was the last of the inner planets to transit Leo. This year, she’s the first. What to expect as the Goddess of Love slinks into the realm of the lion?

Channeling the Divine Lion

The move now is from a protected heart to a prowling one. Leo rules the heart in classic astrology, so in a way Venus is quite at home here, being as she is the Goddess of Love. As with Venus in Cancer, you may feel an overwhelming desire to love and be loved, eager to share your dedication, affection and devotion. Venus in Leo desires acknowledgment. The lion loves nothing more than to feel needed and appreciated. Our love, for Self and others, is grandiose, glowing, sparkling. We are more generous, both with our feelings and our money. After the soft, gooey energy of Cancer, Venus now encourages us to be assertive (feelings –> action). Emerge from the cool lake to broil in the sun. Feel the flames burn away any remaining insecurity.

Love and ego are intertwined now. Venus in Leo is warm and expressive but also a bit of a tease. Indeed life may begin to feel like a game. Leo is perpetually infatuated with all people, places and things - no one loves romance more than the lion! This is the source of the lion’s enthusiasm and buoyant persona – Leos know how to see the best in everything, masters of leisure and fun, maximizing each moment for the greatest possible enjoyment. Although the lion has a reputation for egoism, it is important to understand why. The balanced Leo priority is to love AND be loved. Yes, Leos like to be pampered, but they like to pamper others just as much.

The axis of identity

The last time Venus transited Leo was from August 12 - September 5, 2014. Themes that surface now are a reflection of our progress since then. Studying the polarities of the zodiac wheel is an effective method to learn more about the signs. You may recall that fixed air Aquarius is Leo’s opposite sign, 180 degrees across on the wheel. Leo is the confident one, the attention-grabbing actor; Aquarius the selfless public servant, the martyr. Venus in Leo clings fiercely to love in order to free the Self from the ego’s vice grip. She lives fearlessly from the heart, often saying things in the heat of the moment that may be perfectly true but perhaps not so pretty on the ears. The Leo-Aquarius polarity therefore works to achieve balance between the heart (ruled by Leo) and the mind. The heart looks out for the Self, naturally; the heart is like the Moon – deeply internal and categorically personal. The mind is rational and all-inclusive, serving as a bridge between the Self and the collective. Venus in Leo seeks freedom through the trials and triumphs of the heart, and Venus in Aquarius through the expansive force of the mind.

In her natural habitat, Venus enjoys a certain level of bounty and luxury. At home in Libra, she plays the part of peaceful diplomat, master of balance and fairness. At home in Taurus, Venus reclines. What abundance can Venus in Leo provide? What becomes scarce? When the Goddess of Love sinks her claws into the lion’s mane, we are gifted with a divine capacity for self-appreciation. Venus in Leo is delightfully narcissistic. Leos have self-serving tendencies because this is precisely how they create and maintain reality: from the inside out, radiating from the center of the heart :) Leo is an odd placement for Venus, as she is unaccustomed to neither fire nor fixed energy. It may take a few days to find your groove.

Drama king

When taken to the extreme, Venus in Leo creates drama just for the sake of making life interesting. Leonine fixed energy is forceful and expansive and needs somewhere to go! If caught in a weak moment of boredom or stagnation, we may overstate reality to create momentary excitement, respite from the humdrum. Another possibility is over-indulgence: spending too much money, going out excessively, taking on multiple lovers, etc. Venus in Cancer was inclined to retreat inward, but now we deal with conflict head-on. The crab may have had you crying: no one understands me, and no one loves me! Cancer energy can make us feel like we care too much and love too hard. I hope that you found solace beneath the waves, curled up inside your crab shell :)

If you were born with Venus in Leo, this month is your Venus Return! If you don’t know your personal Venus sign, click here. If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: my power is in my heart

Venus in Cancer ⚢ May 7 - June 5

Venus spins through Cancer from May 7 – June 5, 2015

Click here to learn about Venus. Click here to learn about Cancer.

Venus now moves from Gemini into cardinal water Cancer. Venus embodies the Divine Feminine: romance, beauty, pleasure, happiness and fine art. As she spins from sign to sign, changes take place within the heart. Venus concerns attraction: what vibes are you exuding and what attracts you? If Venus in mutable air Gemini was an intellectual conversation with your twin soul, Venus in Cancer is the eternal bond formed with your lover in the course of motherhood and parenting. We’re ready to move from mind to heart.

For the last month or so…

With Venus in Gemini, the heart demanded freedom. We worked on communication basics: mingling, chatting, flirting and exploring new friendships/partnerships. If balanced, you may have had more intellectual conversations or mental/creative energy than usual, especially concerning writing endeavors. If imbalanced, you may have felt scattered, flighty, indecisive, nervous or inconsistent. Venus in Gemini was busy, buzzing, bubbly! Outgoing though we may have been, trust was hard to earn as Venus in Gemini can be secretive and calculating. The heart and mind of the twins is voracious. As such, you may have been forced to juggle many interests/relationships at once. Although Venus in Gemini was community-oriented, there was an unmistakable air of privacy to this transit. We desired getting to know others as long as we kept the Self shrouded in mystery. What to expect now as the Goddess of Love settles into the realm of the crab?

Channeling the Divine Feminine

The move now is from a curious heart to a protected one. Venus is very much at home in Cancer. Besides the Moon, Venus is the most feminine of all the planets, and Cancer is arguably the most feminine of all the signs. Whenever Venus transits a water sign, emotions run high. After the swift, versatile energy of Gemini, Venus now encourages us to breathe, settle, intuit (words –> feelings). Imagine plunging into a cool lake after a long day of meeting and conversing with others. Water refreshes, soothes and supports. Let’s reflect: what have we learned? Who are we now?

Expect to feel more “in tune” now. If attached to another, your relationship may transcend a whole new level of understanding and connectivity. You may feel an overwhelming desire to love and be loved, as we are quite eager to share our dedication, affection and devotion at this time. Cancer focuses on safety and security. Remember that this is the sign of the crab, and when crabs feel threatened, they retreat into their shells. This is exactly how we may react now to unpleasant external forces. Going inward is necessary for our wellbeing from time to time. However, you may feel even more sensitive or touchy than usual. I like to visualize this sign as an exposed nerve or soft underbelly: tender, moody, vulnerable.

The axis of stability

The last time Venus transited Cancer was from July 18 - Aug 12, 2014. Themes that surface now are a reflection of our progress since then. Studying the polarities of the zodiac wheel is an effective method to learn more about the signs. You may recall that cardinal earth Capricorn is Cancer’s opposite sign, 180 degrees across on the wheel. Cancer is the prototypical mother, Capricorn the father. Both signs feel a soul longing to put down roots and get settled early in life, whether physically or emotionally. Capricorn and Cancer seek stability and comfort. However, the imbalanced crab lacks a thick skin and hard head, unlike practical, no-nonsense Capricorn. The crab shuts down when confused or insulted; the goat stands strong. Capricorns are realists more than capable of swallowing the truth, as is the balanced Cancer, but this transit may manifest as an emotional roller coaster if we are not vigilant. We may be more easily offended than usual.

In her natural habitat, Venus enjoys a certain level of bounty and luxury. In Libra, she plays the part of peaceful diplomat, master of balance and fairness. In Taurus, Venus reclines. What abundance does Venus in Cancer provide? What becomes scarce? When the Goddess of Love intertwines with the crab, we are gifted with a divine capacity for empathy. Venus in Cancer is deliciously irrational. She feels, knows, senses, understands: delicate, fragile, just like the moon. We don’t feel like taking risks now, nor do we treat matters lightly. Venus in Cancer is so warm and fuzzy, she may be as a too-heavy blanket, smothering with endless love.

Fear not!

Balanced Venus in Cancer is nurturing, sympathetic, gentle, perceptive, trusting, thoughtful and creative, but the imbalanced crab allows fear to override everything. When in pain, the crab cries out: no one understands me, and no one loves me! Venus in Cancer can make us feel like we care too much and love too hard. Our worries quickly blossom and multiply if we let them. Find solace beneath the waves. Curl up inside the egg shell. Rest in your cocoon. Astrology teaches us that all things come to pass: the planets keep spinning and we keep changing.

I was born with Venus in Cancer, so this month will be my Venus Return! To find out your personal Venus sign, click here. If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: I am safe

Venus in Gemini ⚢ Apr 11 - May 7

Venus spins through Gemini from April 11 – May 7, 2015

Click here to learn about Venus. Click here to learn about Gemini.

Venus now moves from Taurus into mutable air Gemini. Venus embodies the Divine Feminine: romance, beauty, pleasure, happiness and fine art. As she spins from sign to sign, changes take place within the heart. Venus concerns attraction: what vibes are you exuding and what attracts you? If Venus in Taurus was like building a house with the one you love, Venus in Gemini is the first intellectual conversation with your lover. After settling in and taking stock, we’re ready to move from body to mind.

For the last month or so…

Venus in Taurus was as stubborn as she was sensual. This transit kind of felt like walking upright for the first time: exciting in a fundamental way, but definitely a bit wobbly. Resisting urges and impulses was especially difficult as Venus was a lavish goddess while at home in Taurus. I observed during this transit that my inner child was alive and well. Just as children willfully deny those details of external reality which challenge their dream-like conception of the world, the bull digs in her hooves and shakes her horns: no! I do not accept! And in the same way that children move through the world as simultaneously selfish and innocent creatures, the imbalanced bull lollops along peacefully without regard for the needs of others. Earth energy sits heavy yet sweet: full, juicy, bursting with promise. I like to visualize Venus in Taurus as young lovers in a fierce embrace. She was tactile when balanced, materialistic when taken to the extreme. What to expect now as the Goddess of Love whirls into the realm of the twins?

Buzzing minds

The move now is from an indulgent heart to a curious one. It took me a long time to understand Gemini and I’m still grappling with this intense sign. I used to think of the Gemini soul as adventurous and adaptable, but I’m starting to see that this is often not really the case. Geminis have a comfort zone that they don’t particularly like to leave, probably because they easily become trapped in the mind. When I am around other Geminis, I sense a vibration that resembles a gyroscopic electrical storm. The twins are constantly in motion: busy, buzzing, worrying, searching, pondering, frenzied! The karmic purpose behind incarnation as a Gemini is to find peace within. Venus in Gemini will require massive stimulation of the mind as a way to alleviate interminably circling thoughts. We are asked now to work on communication basics and cerebral pursuits. If balanced, expect to feel bubbly, chatty and animated. Venus in Gemini is unapologetically charming and flirtatious.

The axis of knowledge

You may recall that Venus transited the twins’ opposite sign (Sagittarius) back in November 2014. Themes that surface now are a reflection of our progress since then. Gemini and Sagittarius are both restless, seeking. Venus in Sagittarius is jolly and dynamic; Venus in Gemini can be equally buoyant as long as we remain open to trying new things. Sagittarius sparkles, gliding forward effervescently in time and space, never dwelling; Gemini tends to linger, to hone in, to chase a thought and pin it down until nothing more can be extracted. The trick is to keep moving. Focus on being as extroverted as possible. The more we share and co-create, the more we expand. If imbalanced, we may settle, close the mind, build walls or fool ourselves into believing that we’ve seen all there is. Sagittarius wanders freely, dashing here and there, excitedly exploring, but the imbalanced Gemini stops and stutters, spins backwards, gets caught in hundreds of turbines and then does it all over again.

Gemini wants to get well acquainted with so-called reality. The twins love to pick apart everything that happens to/around them. Whereas Venus in Sagittarius is escapist and in denial when imbalanced, Venus in Gemini thinks way too much, caught up in the mind’s incessant squabbling. The centaur wants to see the best in everyone and everything, always the optimist, but the twins are inclined to critique, to find a way to know the truth rather than hope for something more idealistic. Venus in Gemini can be secretive and calculating. Resist the urge to judge, exclude, deceive or assume - there is much to be gained from emulating the centaur’s firm moral code. Venus now encourages us to consider – do my thoughts and inner life harmonize with my external social life?

Resisting flakiness

In her natural habitat, Venus enjoys a certain level of bounty and luxury. In Libra, she plays the part of peaceful diplomat, master of balance and fairness. In Taurus, Venus reclines. What abundance can Venus in Gemini provide? What becomes scarce? When the Goddess of Love intertwines with the twins, we are showered with unprecedented creative and social energy. Outgoing though we may be, trust is hard to earn now. Ideal socioscapes for Venus in Gemini are those such as airports, train/bus stations, huge cities, clubs, packed bars/malls, public squares, etc. Anywhere the twins can get lost in a crowd and perhaps become someone else - this is where the heart lives now. Gemini thrives on anonymity, fantasies, stranger danger, chameleon acts and endless traveling. The connections we’re looking for now are fleeting yet powerful, such as when we wave or smile at an attractive stranger.

Venus in Gemini is hard to satisfy because she requires so much. The heart and mind of the twins is voracious, which is why these types like to juggle many interests, relationships and endeavors at once. What’s ironic is that many Geminis are poor jugglers. You’d think they’d be expert multitaskers, as the Gemini nature is pure quicksilver, but it seems that control and stability are hard to come by in the twin realm. This is why Geminis have a reputation for inconsistency, flakiness and fear of commitment.

Although Venus in Gemini is community-oriented and truly loves meeting others, there is an unmistakable air of privacy to this transit. We desire getting to know others as long as we may keep the Self shrouded in mystery. Aha - this is the paradox of Venus in Gemini. Geminis are very adept at reading thoughts, body language and voices. The twins have an uncanny ability to readily identify what makes others tick. These insights, however, are often immediately distorted by Gemini’s insistence on analyzing everything to death! Be sure to routinely step out of the internal world and into your surroundings.

To find out your personal Venus sign, click here. If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: stillness

Venus at home in Taurus ⚢ Mar 17 - Apr 11

Venus resides at home in Taurus from March 17 – April 11, 2015

Click here to learn about Venus. Click here to learn about Taurus.

Venus now moves from cardinal fire Aries into fixed earth Taurus. Venus draws us closer to the Divine Feminine: romance, beauty, pleasure, happiness and fine art. As she moves from sign to sign, changes take place in the heart. Venus concerns attraction: what vibes are you exuding and what attracts you? If Venus in Aries was like sitting atop Mount Everest for the first sunrise of the year, Venus in Taurus is like building a house with the one you love. After the rebirth, we’re ready to settle in and take stock of what we have. Venus rules both Taurus and cardinal air Libra. In astrology, we say that she is returning “home” now. Planets at home are auspicious placements.

For the last month or so…

Venus in Aries was as sexy as it was combative. This transit gave us the much-needed opportunity to start fresh in our relationships, but hitting the reset button comes with its own set of difficulties. Tact was elusive with this placement. Aries energy can be aggressive, reckless and stubborn when imbalanced. I observed in myself that anger and impatience bubbled up more quickly than usual. As Aries is the first sign in the zodiac realm, it is often analogized with birth/early childhood. In the same way that young children move through the world with equal parts fearlessness and naïveté, the ram bursts and leaps without regard for anything much outside the Self. Fire energy spreads rapidly in all directions, just like the boundless enthusiasm and optimism of a child. I like to visualize Venus in Aries as young lovers running and stumbling, yet still laughing - a colorful relationship full of blunders, bruises, lessons learned and plenty of hot love. Venus in Aries was candid, straightforward and unapologetically raw. What to expect now as the Goddess of Love returns home to her bull pen?

Body meets world

The move now is from a ravenous heart to an indulgent one. Venus in Taurus is obstinate, lavish, materialistic and yet deeply familiar. Taurus lives in the body’s weight, pressed and wrapped in the warm folds of your very own bed; in the fullness of the stomach after a huge, delicious meal; in the profound peace found in a mug of tea on a cold night; in the caress of the wind and grit of the sand beneath you on the beach; in the pleasure derived from the simple tools and comforts of life: pillows, chocolate bars, fuzzy sweaters, baked goods, a finely carved bowl, a framed painting. Venus in Taurus is sensual and tactile. We ardently crave physical contact with others now. The bull thrives on all things sweet, savory, soft, luscious, melodious and aromatic. Taurus is also associated with childhood - in particular, the period in which we feel out our surrounding environment. Just as children attempt to willfully deny those details of external reality which challenge their dream-like conception of the world, the bull is notorious for digging in her hooves and shaking her horns: no! I do not accept! The karmic purpose behind incarnation as a bull is to learn the ultimate unimportance of the material world. Although it can be delightfully cozy and nurturing, this terrestrial scape we see all around is only one tiny sliver in an infinite spectrum of spacetime dimensions. Having said that - let’s take a deep breath, relax and enjoy the abundance of the Universe. This is what Venus asks of us now.

The axis of sensuality

You may recall that Venus transited the bull’s opposite sign (Scorpio) at the end of October 2014. Themes that surface now are a reflection of our progress since then. Taurus and Scorpio are both incredibly passionate and sexual. Venus in Scorpio was powerful and transformative in a rather dark, intense way; Venus in Taurus lacks the emotional crisis element found in Scorpio. Taurus is master of all that can be reached by the senses while Scorpio wishes to know what lies beyond: all that is hidden, intangible, metaphysical. Venus in Taurus keeps life simple. I am often reminded of the time one of my Taurus friends told me that she doesn’t “like to think about outer space.” This little tidbit reveals much about the bull’s insistence on stability and consistency. The infinitude of the Universe challenges the apparent order of the bull’s little pen in the sunshine. Both the bull and the scorpion get hung up on issues of control: Taurus needs control over the physical environment, Scorpio over the natural power dynamics found in a given relationship. As a Taurus, I can attest that it is a constant struggle to overcome the ferocity of lust, desire and the apparent “need” for material comforts.

With Venus in Taurus we seek transcendental body-soul connections with our lovers. Of all the signs, Taurus is perhaps the most inclined to confuse love and sex, as these are inextricably bound up in the bull’s psyche. It is practically impossible for Taureans to keep their hands off others - their love is expressed most organically when it is skin-to-skin: warm hands on warm bodies, massaging, nuzzling, holding. Whereas the intensity of the scorpion is piercingly psychic and intuitive, the energy of Taurus is firm and grounded like sun-baked earth in mid-spring: ripe, dappled, honey-like. The bull prefers the sunshine, stretched out like a fat cat on the front porch. Venus in Taurus is calm, agreeable, grounded and practical when balanced. Venus encourages us to consider – do my surroundings, including my relationships, reflect inner harmony? Venus in Taurus is clear, assertive and empathic all at once.

Overcoming laziness and denial

In her natural habitat, Venus enjoys a certain level of bounty and luxury. In Libra, she plays the part of peaceful diplomat, constantly seeking balance and fairness. In Taurus, Venus reclines. Just as we must be vigilant when it comes to the allotment of our land and resources here on Earth, we must be careful now to take only what we need and not allow ourselves to settle into a rut. This is what I often see with aging Taureans: at some point, life gets hard and they just give up. They choose, consciously or not, to remain as they are, a rock lodged upright in the river of evolution. This terrifies me! This is not acceptable. We have an obligation, to ourselves and the rest of the Universe, to continue becoming. Taureans have naturally addictive personalities. In the same way that an addict denies and deceives in order to get a fix, the imbalanced bull glues herself to a reality which supports her endless excuses. The imbalanced Taurus says things like, “I would have liked to…” instead of taking accountability and swallowing the bitter pill called self-awareness. The balanced bull wants to beautify the inner Self and the external world; balanced bulls take extremity and turn it into healthy intimacy. This intimacy can and must extend beyond the fleeting satisfaction of material comforts.

Resisting indulgence

When taken to the extreme, Venus in Taurus may have us spending too much money, lounging around at home or eating lots of rich foods. However, we are eager to share our earthy dedication, affection and devotion. The bull is lush, romantic, majestic, ravishing…! You may find that you feel like treating yourself and others for no particular reason. For the most part, this transit should be smooth and sophisticated, like Valentine’s Day in Paris. We approach our leisure and love life now with ease and amiability. It may be challenging now to resist feelings of self-satisfaction or undue contentment.

Venus in Taurus might have you feeling lethargic, possessive, jealous or especially susceptible to cravings, but I do hope that you can link up with the bull’s singular, unstoppable capacity to sweat and focus. We are uninterested now in small talk, drama or superficial communication. The bull is truly a peaceful creature at heart, despite the fact that she prefers to live life fervently, vehemently, wholeheartedly.

To find out your personal Venus sign, click here. If you are curious about how this transit affects you personally, please contact me for more insight.

Mantra: my home is within