The Wheel of Light
Monthly Newsletter - March 2025
Venus turns retrograde approximately every 18 months and stays in that direction for 4-5 weeks each time. This is the rarest of the retrogrades, so we often are surprised when its qualities start to manifest. This month Venus will turn retrograde on March 1 and remain in that direction until April 12. Venus is considered a ‘benefic’, that is, a planet whose energy is desirable and beneficial. It is the energy of sociability, including our needs in relationship, as well as our social behaviors. It pertains to art, beauty and esthetics. It is associated with money and the value that things have. Values in general are the most basic part of the Venusian nature and the first things we should focus on during the retrograde period.
Whenever any planet is retrograde, it’s time to review our relationship to that energy and the degree to which its expression is bringing us fulfillment and happiness. Let’s start with values. What do we consider important? What are our priorities? Are we allocating the right amount of resources to ensure that our priorities are being realized? This is a time to look at all of those questions and, if necessary, begin the process of changing our behaviors.
Venus is mostly associated with relationship. It lets us know what we have to offer our partner and what we need to received from them in order for the relationship to be enjoyable. If we don’t know what those things are, our potential for relationship satisfaction is not good. This is a good time to review how we are functioning in the relationship and its degree of fulfillment we are experiencing. This could be any type of social relationship, but the primary or romantic relationship is definitely the priority. As such, we may have to become more aware of those parts of the partner and/or the relationship that don’t work. This is a good first step. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you should break up, but it helps to begin the process of looking into the situation. As this research project begins to take form, we have information to share with the partner who may also be doing similar research on their end.
Venus is the ruling planet of Libra, the sign of balance. Even as we become more sensitive to what doesn’t work, we should balance that by noting what does. This can enable us to address the partner in a more thoughtful and considerate way. It establishes a mode of communication that prioritizes process and eliminates finger pointing or accusatory statements. We should be realistic in these conversations. We are probably not solving all the issues and changing all the annoying or unfulfilling behaviors during the Venus retrograde period. But it begins what may turn in to a long series of conversations that are designed to introduce you to each other in deeper and more intimate ways.
Ironically, many people have the experience of an old partner reaching out and getting in touch during the Venus retrograde. Sometimes it’s just to say hello. But often it can be with the intention of getting back together. So, don’t be surprised if this is your experience. And in no way should you agree to reconnect just because someone else desires it. In fact, it can be a good opportunity to remember why you broke up in the first place.
What we value also provides a basis for spending money. Basics, like food, clothing and shelter are important to everyone. Beyond that, whether we buy a new car annually, a new wardrobe seasonally or eat an expensive restaurant weekly is a matter of individual values and priorities. With food and shelter costs so inflated, there may little left in the budget for toys or luxuries. Venus retrograde is a good time to re-examine budgets and expenditures. Best to avoid major purchases at this time. First, figure out how much you can afford to spend. Second, research the reason why the purchase is desirable. If it’s not a necessity, or your aesthetics have changed, which they often do during a Venus retrograde, it may be better to not do it.
There will be many significant changes this year. The Venus retrograde can be daunting, and due to its rarity, confusing. But this is not one of the major transits we will be dealing with this year. Pay attention to what needs work at this time, but don’t make it bigger than it really is. Dealing with this transit affectively can make some of the other energy shifts this year easier to negotiate.
Aries (March 21-April 20)
Aries: This is a great time for new beginnings, especially if they pertain to your personal life. Interaction with family, starting projects on the house or simply spending creative time by yourself can all lead to happiness and fulfillment this month.
Taurus (April 21-May 21)
Taurus: Venus is your ruling planet. This month begins 5 weeks of self-analysis, research and review. Alone time could be very beneficial. Spending that time on art projects or spiritual introspection would be stellar ways to take advantage of that transit at this time.
Gemini (May 22-June 21)
Gemini: Reviewing friendships or your participation in group activities are highlighted for you this month. Later month apply that same modality to career issues. This is more a time of contemplation rather than a time of action.
Cancer (June 22-July 22)
Cancer: There will be eclipses at both the Full Moon in Virgo on the 13th and the New Moon in Aries on the 29th. Use those events to get internal clarity about your family (Full Moon) and career (New Moon). Changes, expected or not, could occur in those areas for you this month.
Leo (July 23-August 23)
Leo: This is the month of the Spring Equinox, when your ruling planet the Sun transits into Aries and a new season begins. This could be a dynamic Spring for you as your career can move in a new direction or start moving at a faster pace. Discipline and productivity come together for you this month.
Virgo (August 24-Sept 22)
Virgo: The Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Virgo on the 13th bring feelings and emotional needs into high focus for you this month. These are not qualities of life that you usually emphasize, so take some time to tune in. Using the breath to slow the mind can be useful. The eclipse can bring unexpected insights and changes.
Libra (Sept 23-Oct 23)
Libra: This Venus retrograde is all about one-to-one relationship for you. It could be with your romantic partner, but it could also be with a business partner, good friend, a counselor-client relationship or even one with a spiritual master. In any case, the fundaments are the same: what do I need here? Is what we’re doing working for me? If not, how you can address the other person with the intention of improving the situation?
Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22)
Scorpio: This could be a fantastically dynamic and productive month for you. Things you’ve been working on or waiting for could finally be starting to manifest or come to completion this month. Stay the course, but be willing to make small subtle changes as circumstances reveal the necessity to do so.
Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21)
Sagittarius: This is a time to stay within yourself. Avoid making or trying to execute big plans. Avoid being excessive in expectations of yourself or others. This is a good time to work on managing what you already have going.
Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 20)
Capricorn: This could be a very productive month for you. This is a good time to implement plans you have been working on. It’s also a good time make some significant changes in your goals or how you are planning to achieve them. Act on your ambition with creativity and flair.
Aquarius (Jan 21 to Feb 19)
Aquarius: This is a good time to initiate new social activities. It could be with family or good friends. It could also be through some type of volunteer neighborhood or community service.
Pisces (Feb 20-March 20)
Pisces: Artistic expression, stimulating conversation and harmonious social activities could all be part of your experience this month. This is a good time to get out and about, sharing your time, energy and inspiration with others.
Rio Olesky has been studying astrology since 1967 and has been a practicing professional astrologer since 1976. The author of Astrology and Consciousness, A Manual for the Modern Mystic, and The Astroreader, Rio offers weekly classes through Zoom. You can call Rio at 707-887-1820. Check out his website: www.starwatcher.com.