Lucifer, Pentagrams, and Venus Retrograde
Plus this week’s New Moon, Nodal Axis pivot, and more.
Astrology Forecast: 7.17.23 through 7.23.23
My goodness, friends. This is going to be quite the week!
First up, on Monday, July 17 at 2:32pm ET, a potent New Moon in Cancer blankets the heavens. New Moons occur when the Sun and Moon occupy the exact same point in the sky—in this case, they’re meeting at 24° Cancer. This lunation forms an opposition to Pluto in Capricorn at 29°, a trine to Neptune in Pisces at 27°, and a sextile to Uranus in Taurus at 22°. With all these outer planets striking up conversation with the New Moon, the energy is intense, challenging, and transformative.
The sign of Cancer, which is actually governed by the Moon, represents caretaking, protection, security, and sensitivity. On the one hand, this New Moon invites us to check in with our boundaries, safe spaces, and how we cultivate nurture and care in our lives. On the other, it’s ushering us into upheaval on a macro scale. When we zoom out to see how all these energies synthesize their unique vantage points, we discover this lunation’s message: Taking care of yourself is a radical act. In a world that too often denies our innate needs for rest and nourishment, prioritizing these becomes a type of rebellion. It’s a practice that requires presence, intention, and creativity. It’s a subversive ritual.
In Constellation Club, we’ll be performing one of my favorite manifestation rituals to honor this dynamic New Moon in Cancer. Join our Coven Meeting on Monday, July 17 at 8PM ET. Can’t wait to see you there! (PS replays are available!)
Just a few hours later, at exactly 4:00pm ET, the Lunar Nodes (a.k.a. the North Node and South Node), will glide into the signs of Aries and Libra. In astrology, the North Node represents karmic potential, while the South Node highlights pre-existing circumstances. These cosmic horseshoes travel backwards through the zodiac, meaning the North Node will move from stable, sensual Taurus into pioneering, passionate Aries; while the South Node leaves intense, investigative Scorpio for diplomatic, charming Libra. Shifting from fixed to cardinal energy, the cosmos are inviting us into courageous action. We’re being reminded that, in order to reach our destiny, we need to have confidence to take bold steps towards our goals. In order to embrace this mission, we’ll be called to shed the need for external validation and redefine the role that partnership plays in our lives.
Then, on Saturday, July 22 at 9:33PM EST, Venus Retrograde begins. This year, Venus (the planet of love, beauty, and resources) will go backwards until September 3, taking us from 28° Leo to 12° Leo, before turning direct again.
When you hear the word “retrograde,” you may think of calamities, disasters, and severe inconveniences. Mercury Retrograde, in particular, is one of the most widely discussed and media adored astrological transits. But the word “retrograde” isn’t synonymous with “bad.” Retrograde periods are an organic part of any planetary orbit—retrogrades turn our energy inwards, inviting us to reevaluate our current circumstances. They encourage us to pause and reflect, so that we can implement the necessary changes to realign our actions with our values and desires.
Venus Retrograde is one of the most sacred planetary events. Did you know that, in our lifetime, we’ll only ever experience Venus Retrograding in the same few zodiac signs… again and again and again? And that Venus moves in eight-year cycles? And that this upcoming Venus Retrograde is directly connected to events that took place in 2015 (July 25 through September 6, to be specific)? Major stuff!
Below, in this weeks’s edition of The Curiosity Diary, I’ll be diving deep into the astrology, mythology, and symbolism of Venus Retrograde, and unpacking what it means for you. I know you’re going to love it.
Card of the Week
Geometry (from There Are No Coincidences)
This card illuminates patterns, sequences, and cycles. Are these recurring motifs the underlying structure of the universe? Or maybe they’re the foundation of your universe—your unique, individual experience? This card urges you to pay attention to the systems that shape your reality, both in the physical and metaphysical realms.
At its core, the Geometry emphasizes the idea that everything in existence is connected through sacred proportions and harmonious designs. It prompts you to recognize the inherent beauty in the symmetries that govern life; a reminder that you’re an essential part of this great cosmic dance.
But this card also symbolizes the ongoing need to find balance and order. Just as geometric shapes are carefully balanced, this card invites you to seek alignment within yourself. Observe the patterns emerging in your experiences and relationships, and consider how they might be reflecting your internal narrative. There’ a reason certain events continue to show up—what is the reason? Remember, before a cycle can be broken, it must first be acknowledged.
Curious Recommendations
I mean, it’s thematic…
Lucifer, Pentagrams, and Venus Retrograde
I’m kind of obsessed with Venus Retrograde. It’s mysteriously sensual and deeply spiritual. In fact, Venus’ entire orbital cycle hinges on this backwards spin, and the midpoint of Venus Retrograde has long-been considered a powerful mystical portal where anything is possible. In this week’s edition of The Curiosity Diary, we’ll delve into the esoteric and evocative mythology of Venus Retrograde, exploring its sacred potential and what it means for you.
First, you should know that Venus Retrograde occurs every 18-months, lasting 40-days and 40-nights. Does this duration sound familiar?