A mutable, Mercury-ruled earth sign, mindful maiden Virgo demands that we make stock of the ways we’ve grown and the crops we’ve gathered throughout the first three quarters of the year before we move into the last. Mercury retrograde, too, began on August 23rd, joining Venus in inviting us to stop, reflect, and carefully (re)consider our next steps before proceeding. While it may feel counterintuitive or disharmonious, there is divinity within the timing of this transit; Virgo is no stranger to splitting the wheat from its shaft, and though she thrives best in the company of the communities she works so diligently to sustain, she is well-equipped to navigate the hermetic nature of this retrograde—especially with a little extra help.
The Sun began its ingress into Leo on July 22nd, where it will languor until the 23rd of August. Adversely, Venus, ruler of the sensual world, began its retrograded course just moments before; a difficult transit that will have us grappling with the pleasure sectors in our lives into September. When stationed retrograde, Venus severs us from her enveloping hold and implores us to review the areas and dynamics in our lives which feel barren and depleting, while solar Leo commends recognition for its brilliance. When feeling obscured by Venus' shadow, conjure Leo's pride and allow yourself the awareness of the dazzling light you cast on the world around you to dispel what dims your glow.