Venus Retrograde in Leo: What Truly Satisfies You?
The Cosmic Dance of Venus Retrograde in Leo
When Venus, the planet of love, beauty, and values, stations retrograde in the fiery sign of Leo, we’re invited on a profound journey of self-discovery. This celestial event asks us to examine what truly brings us joy, fulfillment, and authentic self-expression. As the ruler of Taurus and Libra, Venus governs not only our romantic relationships but also how we value ourselves and attract abundance into our lives.
Understanding Venus Retrograde Cycles
Venus retrogrades occur approximately every 18 months, lasting about 40 days each time. Every 8 years, Venus returns to retrograde in the same zodiac sign, creating thematic echoes from previous cycles. If you think back to July 2015 when Venus was retrograde in Virgo and Leo, you might notice similar themes resurfacing in your life now. This current retrograde period began on July 23, 2023, and will continue until September 4, 2023, when Venus stations direct again in Leo.
Revisiting Relationships and Self-Worth
During Venus retrograde, unfinished business often comes to the surface—particularly in matters of the heart. You might find old flames reappearing or past relationship dynamics needing resolution. This isn’t necessarily about rekindling romance, but rather about completing cycles and healing old wounds. The Leo influence emphasizes the need for authentic self-expression and recognition in our connections.
On August 9, Venus forms a challenging square with unpredictable Uranus, potentially bringing sudden changes that shake your sense of identity. This aspect pushes you to discover deeper sources of confidence beyond external validation. Then on August 14, Venus forms a harmonious trine with Chiron in Aries, empowering you to make bold decisions about your needs and boundaries. This is a time to stop compromising your truth for the sake of harmony.
Financial and Creative Reassessment
Venus retrograde also asks us to reconsider our relationship with money, resources, and creative expression. The square between Venus and Jupiter in Taurus on August 23 might tempt you toward overindulgence, but remember there’s a significant difference between enjoyment and excess. This is an opportunity to examine what truly constitutes abundance in your life.
With Mercury also beginning its retrograde on August 23, you’re being called to double down on introspection and careful communication. Avoid making significant financial or relationship commitments until after October 7, when the shadow period of Venus retrograde fully concludes.
The Gift of Vulnerability and Self-Expression
Leo’s influence during this retrograde highlights the connection between vulnerability and creative expression. Whether in romantic partnerships, business collaborations, or artistic pursuits, authentic connection requires lowering our defenses. Notice where you’ve built walls around your heart and consider what needs to happen for you to feel safe enough to be truly seen.
Over these six weeks, give yourself permission to explore your relationship with pleasure, self-worth, and creative expression. How can you bring more joy into your daily routines? What habits support your deepest values? Venus in Leo reminds us that self-love isn’t selfish—it’s essential for genuine connection with others.
Social Circles and Future Visions
This retrograde may bring unresolved issues within your social circles to the surface. You might feel out of sync with larger groups, prompting you to seek connections with those who truly understand and appreciate your authentic self. Be mindful of envy or manipulation within groups, and prioritize relationships where you feel genuinely seen and valued.
You may receive invitations to rejoin circles you’ve stepped away from, but move carefully. The retrograde period encourages quality over quantity in connections. Focus on building relationships that support your growth and align with your evolving values.
Career Reflection and Authentic Alignment
If your professional life feels stagnant or challenging during this period, recognize this as part of the reassessment process. Venus retrograde might be asking you to reconsider whether your current path aligns with what truly brings you satisfaction and pride. The slowdown you’re experiencing could be creating space for a more authentic direction to emerge.
Unexpected collaborations might resurface, or you might discover issues with reliability in current partnerships. Whatever challenges arise, view them as opportunities to establish clearer boundaries and more honest working relationships.
Embracing the Retrograde Journey
This Venus retrograde in Leo offers a powerful opportunity to reconnect with your heart’s true desires. Through journaling, creative expression, or heartfelt conversations with trusted confidants, allow yourself to explore what truly makes you feel loved, valued, and creatively fulfilled.
Remember that this period isn’t about making permanent decisions, but about gathering insights that will inform your choices when Venus stations direct. Be patient with yourself and others, and trust that the clarity you seek will emerge in its own time.
