Venus Retrograde: The Descent and Re-Emergence of Venus

This fall, Venus retrograde takes us on a 40-day journey (Oct. 8-Nov. 18, 2010) back through Scorpio territory. She’ll also take a short trip back into Libra for a few degrees. How we relate with others (Venus and Libra) and, in particular, how we relate intimately (Scorpio) is up for reassessment during this retrograde period. How deeply do we want to share with others and on what levels? How do we feel about our sexuality? In what ways do we feel empowered or disempowered? Are we feeling valued, appreciated, and supported? How are the unhealed wounds from the past impacting our current relationships? The deep waters of Scorpio are charged with tremendous power, emotional intensity, and passion. They also hold great potential for regeneration.

Venus retrograde, in Scorpio, can take us on a journey of descent...a descent into the dark shadows of our psyches. If we have hurt, or been hurt, through the abuse of power, the violation of trust, or the misuse of sexual energies, these wounds may be crying out for healing and forgiveness. If we carry feelings of shame, inhibition, or guilt about our sexuality, or if we struggle with issues of jealousy, fear of abandonment, or fear of merging, this retrograde period is an ideal time for inner work and emotional processing. And because Venus in Scorpio deals with intense interpersonal dynamics, our intimate relationships may be affected by what is revealed through this transit.

As Erin Sullivan writes, in her book Retrograde Planets, “More often than not, the area in the chart which is being examined by Venus retrograde has gone unattended for some time-certainly with this deep perspective. One tends unconsciously to withdraw, seeking hidden meaning in experience, hoping to draw value or deeper knowledge from one’s daily interactions.” Perhaps during this retrograde period, we may need some time for both our personal process and working on our relationships.

If we are willing to look within and shine the light of awareness into the shadowy places, Venus retrograde in Scorpio also holds the promise of rebirth and regeneration. She brings us opportunities to reclaim our power and passion, and our capacity for truth-telling. She opens us to the profound gifts exchanged through multi-leveled intimacy. A radiant Venus in Scorpio enjoys the sharing of sexual power and the beauty of the erotic arts. She values and appreciates herself and those she is in relationship with. She trusts in abundance and partakes in the eternal flow of resources between herself and others. As Venus dives into the depths of Scorpio, she may at first find herself swimming with sharks. But with a willingness to heal the past, she may ultimately discover a treasure-chest filled with jewels to share with those she loves.

May you be blessed with power, passion, and pleasure!
Sajit

Additional resources:
Empower Your Authentic Sexuality: A Movement Group for Women http://soulvisionconsulting.com/authentic.html

Laura Boomer-Trent blog: Venus in Scorpio & A retrograde dance of Magnetic Balance http://zodiac-heaven.blogspot.com/

Anthony Fiorenza article: The Venus Transits, The Pentagonal Cycle of Venus http://www.lunarplanner.com/HCpages/Venus.html