We're back for Season Three of Venus Rises! Rebecca and Bronwyn are back to guide you through the tumultuous skies of 2023. We'll be dropping in when the big transits come along with guidance and supports, starting with August's Venus Retrograde in Leo. Glad to see us back? Please review, share, and follow! Show Notes - Season 3 Episode One - Venus Retrograde in Leo 2023 **Understanding the Venus Retrograde Cycle (1:00 - 3:30)** - Venus stations retrograde roughly every 18 months over an eight-year period, forming a five-pointed star pattern in the sky. - Venus retrograde provides an opportunity to explore unseen aspects of Venus and undergo an inner journey.**Pre-Shadow Period and Themes of the Retrograde (3:30 - 6:13)** - The pre-shadow period began on June 19, offering a preview of the upcoming retrograde themes. - The three phases of the retrograde are the pre-shadow (preview), the retrograde (active period), and the post-shadow (review and cleanup).- People with planets in fixed signs (Leo, Aquarius, Taurus, Scorpio) between 12 and 28 degrees will be strongly affected, as well as those with Taurus and Libra-ruled houses in their chart. **What Venus Represents (6:13 - 10:31)** - Venus rules values, money, love, relationships, women+, beauty, arts, and the exchange of energy with others.- Venus is associated with the heart chakra and represents the harmonious balance and beauty in life. - A Venus retrograde can be an opportunity to reassess our values, relationships, and finances. **Leo Attributes and Potential Pitfalls (10:31 - 13:52)** - Leo is associated with creativity, playfulness, joy, drama, royalty, and being seen. - Unhealthy Leo traits may include craving attention, self-absorption, drama, or manipulation for approval. **Exploring Shame and Self-Love (13:52 - 17:33)** - During the retrograde, one may encounter obstacles to self-love and areas where they feel unworthy of love or validation. - Shame can lead to an implosion of positive energy, hindering the ability to radiate warmth and self-acceptance. - Looking back at past experiences of growth and self-confidence can help overcome self-doubt. **Nurturing the Positive Leo Archetypes (17:33 - 19:23)** - Positive Leo traits include warmth, generosity, creativity, and being a source of light for others. - Healthy Leo energy fosters genuine connections, while unhealthy aspects may involve seeking external validation. **Navigating Relationships During the Retrograde (19:23 - 22:13)** - In relationships, be aware of the potential for manipulation or emotional demands due to insecurity. - The retrograde can prompt reassessment and deeper understanding of relationship dynamics. **Embracing the Underworld Journey (22:13 - 25:18)** - The retrograde journey can be likened to the Persephone myth, with themes of descent and renewal. - Embrace the cyclical nature of life and transformation during the Venus retrograde. - Utilize this period for introspection and growth, understanding that challenges can lead to evolution. - Reconnecting with people from the past may be significant during this period. Supports during Venus Retrograde: - Practicing the "Bliss Journal" - Record something delightful that brings bliss every day. - Rose Water or Rose Oil - Connects with Venus' love and appreciation, use in diffusers, baths, or drinks. - Rose Hibiscus Tea - A heart-opening and Venusian beverage. - Hawthorn and Crab Apple - Herbal supports for the heart, self-love, and self-compassion. - Malachite - A green stone supporting emotional balance and self-expression. Cautionary Notes (Don'ts): - Avoid making big investments or purchases during Venus Retrograde. - Be mindful of communications during the Mercury-Venus retrograde overlap, as misunderstandings may arise. - Beware of impulsive actions during Venus square Uranus; overindulgence and excess might occur. - Avoid major relationship decisions or reconciliations during Venus Retrograde, especially with the Jupiter and Uranus squares.
