Known as the planet of relationships, money, and beauty, Venus is one of the most beloved and harmonious archetypes in the sky, lending its sweet vibes to help us prosper, find love, and feel adored. On a good day, this celestial body can bring forth great hair and better moods, elevating charms and softening hearts with its benevolent nature. Unfortunately, this gentle planet is prone to bad days as well, and we’re in store for a whole lot of them as Venus heads retrograde on July 22. This planetary backspin may be responsible for returning exes, financial mismanagement, and ego bruises, making it important that you find ways to surf these cosmic tides.
July 27 marks an important day for this retrograde as Mercury cozies up with Venus retrograde, asking us to use our voices. Flashes of inspiration and creative drive will be a guiding force, though inflated egos could bring forth competitive spirits. Meanwhile, the nodes of fate will step in to promote fresh starts in all facets of life, though professional roadblocks may pose a problem while Pluto becomes agitated overhead. Try not to succumb to any plot twists or obstacles that find you, trusting that if you believe in yourself and think outside of the box, victory is within reach.
Brace yourself for messy vibes when Venus retrograde squares off with rebellious Uranus on August 9, threatening to trigger unnecessarily combative or stubborn behaviors. This may also be the most precarious day for finances, making it important that you’re wise with your bank account. If you’re in the process of investing for the future, be extra careful not to toy with risky gambles. Emotional insecurity could also bubble to the surface, and red flags you never noticed in your crush could suddenly come to light. However, this day will be trying for us all, so it might be best to let conflict blow over before deciding you’re finished with someone.
Consider connecting with old friends or rediscovering passions when the Leo Sun cozies up to Venus retrograde on August 13, acting as one of the most auspicious days of this retrograde. The stars will invite each and every one of us to rediscover old pieces of ourselves, which can come forth when in the company of loved ones, while reading a favorite book, or picking up projects or crafts that have fallen by the wayside. Steamy hookups with missed connections or old flames may also come to fruition, and if you’re wondering if that ex of yours has truly changed, you might discover the answer. Just be sure to touch base with your own needs on August 14 when Venus retrograde and Chiron join forces to promote self-interests.
You may wonder what happened to your bank account when Venus retrograde and Jupiter square off on August 22, triggering another risky day for financial moves. Be mindful of how generous you are with your affections, as these vibes could lead to emotional depletion. Luckily, these funky vibes will begin to dissipate once Venus stations direct on August 22, paving the way for more-harmonious experiences moving forward. However, the aftershocks of this astrological era may be felt until October 7, when Venus clears her retrograde shadow.
Aries
It may be difficult to take certain responsibilities seriously right now, dearest ram, as Venus’ retrograde journey activates the sector of your chart that governs fun. A surge of creative energy will flow through your heart and mind, causing you to become preoccupied more easily than usual. Be extra cautious of how you spend your time on July 27, being mindful not to hold yourself back with procrastination. On the plus side, any projects you’ve forgotten about may suddenly pique your interests again, giving you a chance to finally put the final touches on your latest work of art.
From family to money, relationships, and work, everything will feel like a challenge on August 9, when Venus retrograde enters a harsh square with unpredictable Uranus. People will feel more rebellious than usual, making it unreasonably difficult to work with others. Moodiness amongst your loved ones will also seem more pronounced, but don’t feel responsible to help others sort out their feelings if they put up a wall. Respect when others need their space, and try not to let your mind go to any jealous or possessive places.
Circle August 14 on your calendar as a day for “me time.” The healing asteroid Chiron will become active in your sign. This cosmic climate gives you full permission to catch up with self-care, though relationship drama could ensue if your sweetie feels neglected. Consider carving out a special moment to share with the object of your affection, prioritizing activities that will leave both of you relaxed. If you still feel drawn to the quiet only solitude can provide, be direct yet graceful when articulating a need for space. September 3 marks the end of this retrograde and the beginning of a desire for fresh projects, as your creative juices will continue to flow until Venus enters Virgo on October 8.
Taurus
There’s no easy way to avoid it — with your ruling planet moving backward through the skies, you’re in for an emotional roller coaster. That’s right, sweet bull; be sure to stock up on tissues and your favorite chocolates, bracing ahead of time for nights inside sitting with your feelings. Don’t worry, though; you’ll benefit immensely from more time at home, so be sure to take full advantage of this retrograde by canceling plans anytime it suits you. A desire to nest and purge your space will be particularly pronounced on July 27, making it a good time to forgo social invites in favor of cleaning out closets and donating old clothes.
You may be surprised by your own heart when Venus retrograde and Uranus square off on August 9, and it will be difficult to hide what’s going on under the surface. If you need to address issues with loved ones, it might be best to sit with these feelings for a little longer, as the rebellious energy at play could make it difficult to see both sides. Luckily, emotional enlightenment will find you when the Leo Sun cozies up with Venus retrograde on August 13, and important conversations over home-cooked meals will go down especially well. Good vibes continue to flow on August 14 when Chiron becomes active, though you’ll crave solitude in lieu of companionship.
Try not to let chores pile up by the time August 22 rolls in, or you may quickly feel overwhelmed by the tasks ahead. Creative inspiration may motivate you to update your interior, though it may be best to wait until Venus stations direct on September 3. Don’t worry, though; you’ll still feel like camping out at home more between now and October 8, when Venus enters Virgo and the sector of your chart that governs fun.
Gemini
You may feel mentally out of sorts throughout this retrograde, dear Gemini, as Venus moves backward through the sector of your chart that governs communication and thought process. Don’t be surprised if you mix up words, are forced to contend with mental blocks, or feel as though you’re lagging throughout this astrological period. Fight for focus when Mercury, your planetary ruler, and Venus retrograde join forces on July 27, which will give important insights as to what your heart and mind have to say, without the confusion of outside influences. However, you should still confide in a trusted ally if you feel the need to get something off your chest.
Your thoughts may return to drama or pain from the past when Venus retrograde and Uranus clash on August 9, shaking things up within the depths of your psyche. While it’s okay to revisit trauma you haven’t quite dealt with, remember to be gentle with yourself, and try not to snap at others if you’re feeling emotionally raw. Luckily, sweeter vibes will flow when the Leo Sun and Venus retrograde align on August 13, asking that you take pride in who you’ve become.
Consider branching out to expand your community when Venus retrograde blows a kiss to Chiron on August 14, providing opportunities for healing, fresh starts, and new friendships. These vibes are also great for exploring old haunts with lifelong friends, so go ahead and take a stroll down memory lane. It will be easy for you to feel overwhelmed when Jupiter becomes agitated on August 22, making it a good time to lie low while embracing self-care. September 3 marks the end of this retrograde, allowing your mind to sharpen throughout the coming weeks, though you should stay on guard for returning exes until October 7.
Cancer
Be smart with your finances right now, sweet crab, as Venus travels backward through the sector of your chart that governs money. You’ll be cosmically implored to examine your bank account and how to feel solid in your situation without depriving yourself of simple pleasures or the occasional luxury. If there’s any debt hanging over your head, consider drafting a play to pay down what you owe on July 27 when Mercury cozies up with the planet of love. Your senses may also feel heightened during this time, making it the perfect time for a long stroll outside.
Social anxiety may bubble to the surface when Venus retrograde clashes with Uranus on August 9, but try not to let fears around being judged or fitting in ruin your day. Screens could also trigger mental discomfort, and you may encounter a few technological difficulties under these wonky vibes. Devote your energy toward grounding in the present when the Leo Sun and Venus retrograde align August 13, as doing so will allow you to feel more secure within yourself. Sweetness will surround you on August 14 when Chiron becomes active, reminding you of your strength while bringing movement to your professional sphere. If you’ve been struggling in your occupation recently, these vibes will help you find your way back to the top.
You’ll find yourself in a generous mood when Venus retrograde aligns with Jupiter on August 22, though you should be mindful to guard your resources. Avoid lending money to friends or extended family members, as it may be difficult to collect what you’re owed down the line. The most important thing to consider throughout this retrograde is that you are worthy of love, trust, and appropriate compensation. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself in matters of the heart or money, and be sure to say plenty of nice things to yourself.
Leo
You may inadvertently distance yourself from loved ones, dearest Leo, as Venus begins her retrograde journey through your sign on July 22. Your normally extroverted demeanor won’t seem as pronounced, especially if your heart has been carrying around some extra weight. Though you often put on a brave face for loved ones, it’s okay to honor your emotions if you start to feel downcast or less energized. Luckily, you’ll perk up on July 27 when Venus aligns with Mercury, encouraging connection and communication, though you’ll feel most comfortable with people who have been by your side for some time.
This celestial backspin will ask you to reexamine your image, inspiring you to revisit styles and trends from the past. Venus retrograde has a way of playing games with our confidence, but reverting to clothes and accessories you know you feel good in can help curb these funky vibes. Avoid the temptation to make dramatic changes to your appearance when Venus retrograde squares off with Uranus on August 9, as the vision you have in your head is unlikely to manifest the way you’d hoped.
Stand in your pride when the Leo Sun connects with Venus on August 13, blessing you with a cosmic ego boost in honor of your birthday season. Though romantic commitments may seem messy or scary throughout this planetary backspin, these vibes will encourage you to unapologetically invest in yourself and what makes you happy, even if doing so requires you to take a step back from certain dynamics. A spiritual element will come into play when Venus retrograde blows a kiss to Chiron on August 14, guiding your heart to its truest and healthiest path. Missed romantic opportunities could suddenly become an option again, signaling that there may be a soulmate connection between you and this cutie.
Virgo
The cosmos will take you on a journey of the heart, dearest Virgo, as Venus retraces her steps in the sector of your chart that governs the subconscious. Unresolved grief may suddenly rise to the surface, though pain you’ve been afraid to face will seem more digestible. Don’t shy away from any dull aches your heart has learned to live with, understanding that sending love to these areas of your soul will allow you to flourish moving forward, especially where romantic connections are concerned. Unfortunately, any Virgos entangled in a toxic dynamic may feel their circumstances getting worse.
Speak your truth when Mercury and Venus retrograde join forces July 27, providing you with the strength, personal resolve, and words to convey important sentiments. If there are issues you and a loved one need to work on, this cosmic climate provides one of the most clarifying and auspicious moments to do so, so don’t hold back when it comes to broaching rough subjects. However, you should watch out for gaslighting or manipulative behaviors when Neptune becomes active July 30, bringing a deceptive energy to the table.
Epiphanies may find you when Venus retrograde aligns with Uranus on August 9, activating the sector of your chart that governs enlightenment. Though not every hunch will be one you wish to acknowledge, the information your brain cooks up could save you from feeling hurt later. The stars will ask you to accept what you cannot control on August 13 when the Leo Sun aligns with Venus retrograde, reminding you that true power lies in how one responds to life’s disappointments. Themes around commitment will come into play when Chiron is activated August 14, helping you find the bravery to invest in relationships that have been waiting to flourish.
Libra
It may be best to curb your screen time and consuming content, dearest Libra, as Venus glides backwards through the sector of your chart that governs community. An influx of bad news stories or feeling disconnected from your environment could lead to a serious case of the bummers, especially if you begin to feel helpless about the injustices of this world. However, you’ll be in a unique position to find fulfillment on a soul level if you look for ways to invest in the betterment of our world, either through personal donations or volunteering your time.
Random run-ins with exes may also become a strangely common occurrence, especially when Venus squares off with Uranus on August 9. If you’re worried about seeing an old sweetheart, consider wearing clothes and accessories that make you feel confident as a way to help you feel guarded should such an event occur. Reflect on or revive old work when the Leo Sun cozies up with Venus retrograde on August 13, asking you to stand proudly in accomplishments you fought hard to achieve. If you’re overdue for an internet rebranding, now may also be a good time to check this off your to-do list.
Though this retrograde definitely has a penchant for dusting up romantic drama, your love life will benefit from some seriously healing vibes when Chiron becomes active on August 14. Meditation circles, support groups, and special interest classes also pair well with these vibes, so don’t shy away from the pursuit of community and like-minded companions. If a friend of acquaintance seems extra flirty on this day, it could be an indication that they’re looking for something more, though you might want to schedule first dates after Venus stations direct on September 3.
Scorpio
You’re a creature who feels most comfortable when evolving and moving forward, darling Scorpio, though Venus’ retrograde journey through Leo will ask that you reclaim old pieces of yourself. Rather than focusing on what comes next, use this energy to examine if there are any situations, hobbies, or relationships that you moved away from too quickly. If there’s a special someone from the past whom you parted ways with but never got over, now may be a good time to reignite that spark. If a fear around commitment has caused you to shy away from taking big steps in matters of the heart, the cosmos will also ask you to put this behavior in check.
Don’t shy away from deep conversations when Mercury and Venus retrograde join forces on July 27, urging you to move through your emotions with the help of a trusted companion. Swapping personal histories can also bring more depth to your dynamics, and if you’re hoping to get serious with someone special, these vibes can help you both lower guards in a way that feels safe. Try not to lose yourself in someone else on July 30, when Neptune brings a hazy energy to the table.
If there are any bad habits you’ve been struggling to break free from, you’ll have another shot at getting back on track when Venus retrograde blows a kiss to Chiron on August 14. Major changes begin with small steps, so try not to go overboard placing new demands on yourself, as doing so will make personal accountability difficult. Focus on your dreams when Jupiter becomes active August 22, plotting your next bold moves in the process. The stars will nudge you to transform and move forward once more when Venus stations direct on September 3.
Sagittarius
Conserve your energy right now, dearest archer, as Venus travels backward through Leo and your solar ninth house. This planetary backspin could make it difficult to acknowledge your own limits, leading to major burnout if you overextend yourself, especially in matters of the heart. On the plus side, you’ll be in a unique position to adopt new mindfulness techniques while the stars conspire to reshape your personal philosophies. Pay attention to your thoughts when Mercury and Venus retrograde join forces on July 27, bringing through premonitions that could lead you on a new spiritual or healing journey.
Connect with your physical self when Venus retrograde and Uranus clash on August 9, understanding that small health issues could snowball into something bigger if they’re not addressed. Your stress levels may also elevate on this day as the universe promises to throw a few curveballs your way. If your energy levels start to fluctuate, don’t despair, but consider how small lifestyle adjustments might elevate your health and ability to power through each day. Disorganization could also lead to moments of anxiety, and it may be best to ask for help when you’re overwhelmed. If you’re dealing with colleagues or employees who haven’t been doing their fair share, try to have a structured and diplomatic conversation centered on improving productivity and teamwork.
Allow the artist within to speak freely when Venus retrograde blows a kiss to the healing asteroid Chiron on August 13. These vibes will allow you to sort through unresolved issues through creative channels, without the cerebral element that often comes with sorting out one’s feelings. Personal beliefs may also come into question when Jupiter becomes active on August 22. It may be time to revisit old belief systems, though you should be mindful to modernize any antiquated views you were brought up with.
Capricorn
You’ll be in a unique position to undo certain mistakes right now, dear Capricorn, as Venus travels backward through the sector of your chart that governs transformation. Paths you took without realizing where they’d lead may suddenly reveal unhappy circumstances, making it important that you’re honest with yourself about personal missteps. A contemplative energy will take hold when Mercury and Venus retrograde collide on July 27, providing clarity when it comes to retracing your steps and course correcting. Though you may be stuck in the midst of professional or romantic commitments that have lost their luster, these vibes can help you identify if problems can be resolved or if it’s time to move on.
Where relationships are concerned, you can strengthen important dynamics by sharing more about your past. However, you’ll need to get comfortable with vulnerability to make the most of these vibes, which isn’t always your strong suit. The energy may get a bit temperamental on August 9 when Venus retrograde and Uranus clash, but try not to let frayed nerves cause you to lash out, even when you feel as though others are challenging you. On the plus side, a cleansing ambience will manifest on August 13, helping you push unfortunate encounters under the rug.
Invest in the comfort of your home when Chiron becomes active on August 14, but avoid major renovations or aesthetic changes. Instead, look for ways to feel cozy with what you’ve got, and consider filling frames and scrapbooks with meaningful photos of family and friends. Keep tabs on how you conduct yourself publicly when Jupiter becomes agitated on August 22, which may cause you to lose touch with self- awareness. Luckily, your sharp and stylish demeanor will come back with a vengeance once Venus stations direct on September 3, and you’ll feel clearer on where you stand with others and how to move forward.
Aquarius
Your romantic life will be trying through this retrograde, dear Aquarius, as Venus travels backward through the sector of your chart that governs matters of the heart. Try not to take it personally if your sweetie seems edgy or distant, and be cognizant of these tendencies within yourself. If you sense tensions brewing beneath the surface with a loved one, consider diplomatically addressing the issue when Mercury and Venus join forces on July 27, opening opportunities to evolve dynamics for the better. Compassion will be key in making the most of these vibes, and don’t shy away from discussing unresolved issues from the past.
August 9 will bring challenges to your domestic sphere when Venus retrograde clashes with rebellious Uranus. In addition to moody housemates and emotional roller coasters, you may experience failing appliances, broken dishes, and missing items. If you feel as if the harmony has left your space, begin restoring order by centering yourself. You may also feel as though you’re being pushed away by someone you want to support or nurture, but try not to overstep bounds if someone is asking for space.
August 13 will act as a shining beacon of light throughout this planetary backspin because the Leo Sun and Venus will conspire to elevate your charisma, confidence, and desire to get along. People will be more eager to compromise and respect one another, making this the ideal day to smooth out conflicts, schedule dates, and flirt. You’ll also be asked to examine how love impacts your confidence, making it important that you find ways to feel proud without the approval of others. Positive mantras can help pull you away from darkness on August 14 when the healing asteroid Chiron steps in with its soothing vibes. Venus stations direct on September 3, promising clear roads ahead.
Pisces
It’s time to rethink your wellness game, dearest Pisces, as Venus moves backward through Leo and the sector of your chart that governs health and routines. Use this energy to reflect on moments in your life when you felt exuberant, alive, and energized, considering how your habits have changed since then. July 27 marks an important day in this retrograde, offering opportunities to reshape how you approach fitness, nutrition, and mental health. Just don’t feel pressured to adopt new habits, as these vibes are all about reconnecting with elevating lifestyle choices that you may have lost touch with.
Your thoughts may betray you on August 9 when Venus retrograde squares off with Uranus, bringing a rebellious yet revolutionary energy to the table. While this cosmic climate will seek to move you forward, stubborn tendencies or resistance to change could cause you to fall backward in professional, personal, and romantic matters. On the plus side, you’ll be in a unique position to break free from dynamics and situations that no longer serve you, though this process could get a bit messy. Don’t fret about composure right now; simply do what must be done in order to feel liberated.
Consider returning favors to anyone who has helped you out historically on August 13 when the Leo Sun cozies up with Venus retrograde. These vibes are also great for collaborations, and reaching out for help can bring your projects to the next level. Financial opportunities could arise when Chiron becomes active on August 14, though moral obligations may cause you to pull back and reevaluate the situation. Try not to restrict yourself if you start to feel uncertain or underqualified, trusting that your adaptable nature will allow you to learn new tricks as you move forward, especially when Venus stations direct on September 3.
Renée Watt is a Pacific Northwest-based professional psychic, astrologer, and witch. Her mystical insights have been featured in Vogue, Cosmopolitan, and InStyle. She hosts the weekly podcast The Glitter Cast, which features celebrity ghost stories and interviews with leading professionals in her field.
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