Moon Square Mars: Feelings as Ammunition

With the Moon in hard aspect to Mars, finding healthy ways of expressing one’s emotional tapestry is critical. 

Moon square Mars can show someone very much in touch with their emotional sensitivities, but very much demanding that others be in touch with them as well. This can serve as a beautiful springboard to understanding oneself and others. On the other hand, this can cause interpersonal problems as well.

The Moon in the birth chart represents your emotional nature, as well as your natural emotional responses to external or internal stimuli - that is, how you process your feelings, how you think about your feelings, and how you share (or don’t share) those feelings with others. 

Mars, on the other hand, represents physical and energetic movement. Directed energy. Passion, Aggression. Mars wants to get things done, without understanding the feeling or sensitivity around the action in question. 

When the Moon squares Mars, one’s emotions can become misconstrued or misrepresented in a practical sense. Think emotional manipulation and outbursts stemming from hurt feelings, or a desire to remain overly passive in situations that require directness or more swift action. This placement is representative of behavior that can seem shocking, both to the person showing the behavior and those on the receiving end. 

Impulsivity and emotional turbulence are common with this placement. Emotions exist at the forefront of behaviors; it can be easy to overstep boundaries, act on impulse then regret what was said or done later, or move forward in a situation without fully understanding the emotional context involved. 

People with this placement may have had frustrating episodes during childhood where they felt that their needs were not being met. This could have been a physical need (Mars) or an emotional need (Moon); when the Moon harshly aspects Mars, typically this can indicate potential issues with lack of care, or perceived lack of care, from the mother (Moon).  

Depending on the planetary placements of Mars and the Moon, the square can also indicate intense difficulties with self-criticism. Again, a healthy outlet for this emotional tension is critical.

This placement can indicate someone very much in touch with their emotional presentation. Actors, musicians and entertainers can rely on the strength of this square to channel their emotionally impulsive energy into more constructive outlets. The body (Mars) is driven by emotional undercurrents (Moon), which can create beautiful expressions of feeling if used positively. This is the person who has learned how to cry on command, tell a gut-busting joke out of thin air just to break the ice, or play the most deliciously improvised riff on the guitar during a powerful solo performance. 

It’s important to understand the unconscious levels of emotional reactivity present with this placement. Understand that your impulses are there to guide you to more emotional clarity, without feeling the need to simply react to them. This is true even in moments of high emotional sensitivity. 

Themes to focus on

Emotional fearlessness, interpersonal connection, humor, sharing your authentic sensitivity

Areas for growth

Avoiding impulsivity, situational awareness, harsh self-criticism 

Your Venus Sign: Your Heart's Signature

Your birth chart is a physical imprint of your soul’s infinite destiny, expressed during this lifetime. 

When we talk about your Venus sign, we’re talking about where the planet Venus was in the sky at the time of your birth. 

Venus, the second planet in our solar system, is tied to notions of love, beauty, relationships, romance, based on the Western mythology of the Roman goddess, Venus. 

Understanding Venus in your chart can help you decode: 

• how you operate in relationships

• your attachment style

• what inspires you on an emotional level 

• the kinds of relationships you gravitate towards

• what motivates you in partnership(s) 

• your friendship style

• what turns you off emotionally 

• how you function in social situations 

• the best ways to meet a partner or strengthen an existing relationship

Venusian energy by nature is ebullient and seductive. Venus tells us how we seduce others, and how we like to be seduced in return. But to be clear, we’re not talking strictly about sex or our sexual relationships with others - Venus’ seduction influences our platonic relationships, professional relationships, and the connections we make throughout our daily life, even with strangers. 

Each Venus sign has its own flavor, its own spiritual signature written upon our souls. For instance, Venus in tender, watery Cancer can operate much differently than Venus in airy, intellectually-inclined and free-spirited Gemini. 

The house where Venus lives in our chart can tell us which areas of life our Venusian energy comes into play more significantly. 

Aspects between Venus and other planets in our chart can also tell us more specifically how our Venusian energy works with other aspects of our personality - harmonious aspects like the trine and sextile can indicate easier, more instinctual psychological and emotional acceptance of Venus’ energy in our life, whereas more discordant aspects like the square and opposition can make it more difficult for us to access Venusian energy when and where we need it. 

Please note: I advocate for radical collaboration between the signs. Read more about what this means here.

Read on for descriptions of each of the 12 Venus signs.

• Venus in Aries

• Venus in Taurus

• Venus in Gemini

• Venus in Cancer

• Venus in Leo

• Venus in Virgo

• Venus in Libra

• Venus in Scorpio

• Venus in Sagittarius

• Venus in Capricorn

• Venus in Aquarius

• Venus in Pisces
  

Venus in Pisces

Carrying the psychic weight of the 11 signs before it, Venus in Pisces represents the ethereal and universal connection to divine love consciousness in its highest form. As Venus is exalted in Pisces, this placement shows us how love can be used as a healing force for eternal good, if we consciously choose to let it be so. Those born with this placement possess an undeniable magnetism that affords them the ability to seamlessly connect with friends and lovers alike. There is a natural, unforced emotional receptivity here that endears others to people with this placement. Some might consider this as being empathic or clairvoyant, and certainly this placement can assist those in the healing professions as there is the ability here to connect intimately with others’ most tender and private emotions on a real, heart-sensed level. 

In romantic relationships, Venus in Pisces might be the most misunderstood or misrepresented sign. Pisces energy is highly malleable, as it is a mutable sign and ruled by Neptune. For this reason, there is a tendency to get lost or swept away in preconceived or collective notions of love and partnership. Venus in Pisces is skillful at mimicking partners’ love and attraction styles; it’s not uncommon for a person with Venus in Pisces to consciously or subconsciously adopt mannerisms, speech patterns, behaviors or even physical attributes that are similar to their partner’s. The Piscean ideal seeks to merge with whatever - or whoever - it encounters. Dangers of codependency and emotional enmeshment can threaten Venus in Pisces relationships when personal boundaries are not prioritized. For this reason, it is essential for Venus in Pisces natives to protect themselves against disingenuous behavior, lest they fall into exhausting and emotionally volatile cat-and-mouse games to prove who can out-manipulate who. 

In its most exalted form, Venus in Pisces is the selfless, creative, peaceful yet attentive lover, supported by their equally-devoted partner in a cocoon of comfortable and self-satisfying surroundings. There is a deep, aching longing for Venus in Pisces natives to find their soulmate; serial casual dating and relationships based solely on sexual attraction can be appealing in the short-term but may lead to delusion and cynicism for this sign. 

Human interaction, and the human experience as a whole, cannot be solely categorized by perfection or idealism; this poses a real threat to Piscean inclinations of utopianism and escapism. What happens when Pisces discovers that life isn’t always sunshine and rainbows, but can’t stop wishing it were and would do anything to get that feeling back again? Herein lies the eternal struggle with Venus in Pisces. For this placement, radical acceptance of the self and others can serve as the antidote to feelings of existential pessimism and interpersonal malaise. Finding friends and partners who support Venus in Pisces’ emotional grounding is key; there is fertile ground for Venus in Pisces when it decides to open itself up to more realistic and clear perceptions of love and relationships. 

If you have this placement, understand that you possess a deeply powerful and even spiritual connection to the way you approach interpersonal relationships; this is a gift not to be taken lightly. Avoid resorting to power games and manipulative behaviors in order to get your emotional needs met. If you are hoping to win the affections of someone with this placement, prioritize transparency and sensitivity as a vehicle for connection. 

Venus in Aquarius

Love overflows from a technicolor chalice when Venus meets Aquarius. Here, love and relationships are neither pretentious nor simple, neither inhibited nor easy to ignore. This Venus sign exists among a world of paradoxes, with a few key elements remaining at the core. Elements like freedom, independence, a commitment to justice and equality, and emotional detachment are central for the Venus sign that fundamentally rejects labels or boxes.  

Speaking of justice and equality, matters of the two go hand-in-hand especially in relationships for this sign. This is not the partner that vehemently upholds the necessity of marriage by age 25 and kids, a house, and a backyard with a pool by age 30. This is also not the partner that staunchly believes men are the primary breadwinners in the relationship, and that women are meant to stay home with the kids. Doing what is considered predictable, conventional, or even socially acceptable isn’t of much interest to the Venus in Aquarius lover and friend. In fact, the more provocative and unique, the better. Even for Venus in Aquarius folks with more traditional upbringings, there is a deep, internal longing to venture away from what is considered “appropriate” or expected in regards to their relationships, romantic and otherwise. Folks with this placement may be more accepting of members of their community who are considered outcasts, or who have been othered in some way. There may even be a desire to seek out these kinds of relationships, in order to expand their realm of reality and approach life from an alternative perspective. To the Venus in Aquarius paramour, being different is sexy. 

Thanks to ruling planet Uranus, this sign has an aptitude for surprises and unpredictable behavior. For those who prefer emotional predictability and a sense of routine, this might be shocking. But for those who seek a more unconventional understanding of humanity, with a need to immerse themselves into the many wonders of different societal structures and attitudes, Venus in Aquarius is the way to go. 

Experimentation on a sexual level is another key indicator for Venus in Aquarius. Not one to shy away from trying something at least once, this sign takes a detached approach to matters of intimacy. Sex is as much a natural function of the human experience as it is a means to derive pleasure, intimacy and enjoyment. Venus in Aquarius has the proclivity to look at their sexual partners truly as people, rather than possessions or mere sexual objects. For those who value intimacy as a means to emotionally intertwine themselves with their partner, this can read as coldness or calculating manipulation. But Venus in Aquarius isn’t overly interested in mind games, despite the fact that their openness and curiosity toward human behavior would probably enable them to play these kinds of games skillfully. In fact, there’s a level of straightforwardness and emotional honesty here that can be incredibly refreshing. 

Like Venus in Sagittarius, friendship is incredibly important to the Venus in Aquarius native. Building a relationship on the basis of friendship is a natural progression for Aquarius Venus; here, there is comfort in creating an airy, free-flowing dynamic supported by a network of other friends, creatives, and unique characters. Community can also play an important role with Venus in Aquarius relationships, and natives with this sign are apt to feel encouraged when they date people who can grant them the trust and freedom to openly tend to their own far-reaching communities of friends and associates. 

If you have this placement, take the time to celebrate your unconventional approach to friendship and relationship, and know that independence and loyalty are not mutually exclusive. If you are seeking the affections of someone with this placement, be prepared to stand firmly in your own life, interests, and pursuits, meanwhile allowing your Venus in Aquarius interest to be open to sharing theirs in return.

Venus in Capricorn

There’s something to be said about Venus in Capricorn’s ability to both literally and existentially “age like fine wine”, thanks to ruling planet Saturn’s emphasis on long-term rewards gained over time. Those with Venus in Capricorn are probably familiar with the idea of patience and perseverance more so than any other Venus sign - patience regarding love, building friendship, physical attraction, and intimacy. These folks know that what’s truly and authentically good can only get better, and that love requires a commitment that is best nurtured over many experiences, ups and downs, and evolutions of mind, body and soul. 

Much like Venus in Scorpio, there is an intensity, depth, and searing yet hidden sexuality to Venus in Capricorn that can be wildly attractive or intimidating to others, depending on the circumstances. With a cautious and apprehensive exterior, this Venus sign possesses a highly-skilled and intuitive bullshit detector, working to sniff out potential mates that simply don’t meet their particular standards. Venus in Capricorn ultimately knows what they want and are wary to settle for less, simply because when they commit themselves to a partner, they are unequivocally committed, through the good and the truly reprehensible. Loyalty and faithfulness are of the utmost importance to this Venus sign. With that being said, Venus in Capricorn is not above taking matters of fidelity into their own hands if they feel as though their partner is not upholding their end of the bargain in the relationship. 

There is a beautiful unfolding of humor, sharp wit and warmth when Venus in Capricorn allows themselves to be open to love and relationships. This is a placement that can take others (pleasantly) by surprise. So much outpouring of creativity and connectedness here, yet only available to the lucky few it feels comfortable connecting with and being supported by. Comfort remains an important theme for Venus in Capricorn. There is an ongoing tug-of-war here in terms of sacrifice vs. comfort, endurance vs. relaxation, and commitment vs. rejection of responsibility. Venus in Capricorn is well-steeped in following tradition and abiding by the rules, but also feels a great sense of relief, and perhaps guilt, once they let their hair down and allow themselves to enjoy the luxury of a fulfilling relationship. 

Venus in Capricorn might be open to casual and non-committed types of relationships, especially if they are early in their career or education. But ultimately, lifetime partnership is highly important to this Venus sign and carrying on a legacy they can be proud of matters immensely. 

If you have this Venus placement, remain committed to upholding your standards in relationships. Wanting the best for your relationships, and wanting a partner that can match you intellectually and socially, is worth the time and sacrifice. Also, expect that your options for love and romance will improve with age and growth of experience. If you are interested in someone with this placement, believe in this mantra: “it gets better with time”. 

Venus in Sagittarius

Fun, play, flirtatiousness, and frivolity are on the menu when Venus meets Sagittarius. As the Zodiac’s resident fantasy philosopher, Sagittarius knows a thing or two about prioritizing life’s simple pleasures, choosing to focus on the lighter, more fun-filled aspects of relationships. Now, this is not to say that Venus in Sagittarius can’t or won’t take things seriously in their interpersonal life; when committed, this placement has the ability to remain steadfast. But, finding that special person who can both accept Venus in Sag’s need for independence and stay close enough to provide loyal, loving comfort can prove to be a challenge indeed.

Societal expectations surrounding marriage and monogamy are of particular interest when thinking about Venus in Sag’s tendencies toward unconventional relationships and a desire to buck traditional notions of love and intimacy. You’re likely to see these folks participating in non-traditional commitment ceremonies (as opposed to a traditional wedding), getting permanent finger tattoos instead of actual rings, eloping to a remote island in the South Pacific, or saying “I do” with Elvis’s help in a 24-hour Vegas wedding chapel, tequila shots included.   

Venus in Sagittarius benefits from building a wide social circle (plus this probably comes naturally anyway); this placement most probably invented the concept of Friends with Benefits and prides itself on maintaining an element of friendship while in the confines of sexual or romantic relationships. Friendship and platonic camaraderie are extremely important to this Venus sign; it’s unlikely that natives with this placement will be interested in pursuing a romantic relationship with someone they can’t connect with on an intellectual or philosophical level. By the same token, Venus in Sagittarius greatly admires intelligence and mental stamina among their friends and lovers, choosing to spend time with people who can hold their own in free-spirited debates and verbal sparring. In fact, this can be quite the turn on for Venus in Sag folks. 

Back to the freedom concept. Venus in Sagittarius is perhaps the most freedom-loving Venus placement of all 12 signs, even rivaling Venus in Aquarius in their need to have the space to explore novel experiences and gain unique perspectives. Truly, there is a compulsion here thanks to Sagittarius’ ruling planet, Jupiter, to explore - mental, physical, emotional and spiritual exploration is a key method of self-regeneration for Venus in Sag, and paradoxically can help keep their relationships grounded and secure. Sagittarius energy thrives on novelty, and an overemphasis on routine or traditionality can often feel deeply inhibiting or even depressing for those with this placement. 

As Sagittarius is a mutable Fire sign, Venus in Sagittarius can benefit from relationships in which new experiences serve as the foundation for love and intimacy. Sentimentality or an overreliance on traditional ideals of romance are not the route to take when dealing with someone with this placement. Friendship here is key. If you have this placement, understand and seriously consider your need for novelty and independence in your relationships and be willing to openly communicate this to your partner. If you are seeking the affections of someone with this placement, give yourself permission to show your playful side openly, and let the relationship unfold without putting too much pressure on what the happily-ever-after looks like, especially if it looks different than what’s expected.

Venus in Scorpio

If visceral sexiness and unfiltered emotional expression are part of your must-haves in a partner, you may have met your match with Venus in Scorpio. Now, the question begs: will they want you in the same way, too? 

Venus in Scorpio has a reputation for being all-consuming and obsessive when it comes to matters of the heart. Folks with this placement won’t necessarily be the ones to tell you everything about themselves first. In fact, they’d prefer to be the initiator in matters of courtship, asking you questions and getting to know all the details about you first if they find you intriguing enough to proceed. This is partially out of a genuine curiosity and interest in you (and human behavior in general - Scorpio is the Zodiac’s resident psychologist), but also (either consciously or unconsciously) as a means to subtly control the situation. This is because Venus in Scorpio possesses amazing qualities of loyalty and devotion, and finding themselves in positions of vulnerability means being susceptible to potentially life-altering heartache if things don’t go the way they hope. They want to be sure that they can trust you, because for them, when they find themselves in love, they really put their heart and soul on the line. Doing this is no easy task, which Venus in Scorpio understands intimately. There is certainly an all-or-nothing element to Venus in Scorpio relationships, which can be beautiful if both partners are equally invested, or more challenging if one party isn’t completely on board, or has different perceptions about the relationship’s dynamics. 

The primordial dance of courtship between Venus in Scorpio and their object of affection is something amazing to witness. The usage of the word “primordial” here is intentional; there’s something instinctually sensual and seductive about Venus in Scorpio’s methods of seduction once they decide who they want and go after it. Usually, Venus in Scorpio will dedicate significant time and energy toward understanding the likes, dislikes, interests, and turn-ons of their love interest. Then, it becomes a delicious game of cat and mouse, with Venus in Scorpio leading the charge. Even when it comes to short-lived flings or casual relationships, there’s an intentionality and presence of action here.

As Scorpio is a fixed Water sign ruled by Pluto, emotions remain at the forefront with Venus in Scorpio. Generally speaking, it’s not really Venus in Scorpio’s tendency to have superficial, surface-level relationships. Venus in Scorpio folks need to intimately acquaint themselves with the emotional undercurrents of their partner, even if those emotions might be considered ugly, “too much”, embarrassing, or difficult to understand by others. In fact, Venus in Scorpio natives may find themselves attracting, or, in extreme cases, being victimized by, emotionally-wounded or afflicted partners and friends. It’s important for Venus in Scorpio to understand their emotional power and breadth; even on an unconscious level, others can sense the depth present in Venus in Scorpio natives and can feel compelled to unload or unleash personal traumas even early on in the relationship. 

Sexually speaking, the rumors are true: because Venus in Scorpio is inclined to tune in emotionally and psychically to their partner, and because Scorpio rules the reproductive organs, they are able to hone in on their partner’s pleasure in masterful ways. Expect sexuality and physical intimacy to take precedence in relationships with Venus in Scorpio.  This serves as a vehicle for them to express their loyalty and devotion in tangible ways. 

If you have this placement, understand that your powers of emotional perception and regeneration are real and highly valuable, even if everyone can’t or won’t appreciate them. If you’re seeking the affections of someone with this placement, be open and willing to relinquish control in the name of love.

Venus in Libra

The most magnificently scented, handmade candle. The sparkle of a diamond reflected onto a wall, bathed in sunlight. An expertly-placed Kilim rug at the foot of a roaring fire. Venus in Libra celebrates the details of luxurious simplicity and refinement. Less (and sometimes more) is more and the highest quality is expected in all areas of life by those with this placement - including, and especially, relationships. In fact, relationships and the maintenance required to keep them in good standing is incredibly important for this placement. Venus in Libra prides itself on mending fences and building bridges, even when it feels patently difficult or almost impossible to do so. This placement understands the power in seeing others’ perspectives, and of maintaining a sense of peace and balance within the relationship’s dynamic. This is true for both romantic and platonic relationships. 

With this placement, appearances matter. How you dress, how you smell, how well-groomed you are, and what your social position is are all important here. This is because Venus in Libra intuitively understands that a polished persona can create more social capital and opportunity than someone who doesn’t pay attention to the details - and, the more social capital you have, the more opportunities you have to live a life of freedom (and luxury). Recall that Libra is a cardinal Air sign, and freedom and independence are absolutely critical to the Libran ideal of well-being. Being told when to do something and how to do it goes against Venus in Libra’s need to experience life on their own terms. Codependency of any form need not apply here.  

There is a desire here to avoid anything that might be considered inappropriate, tawdry, dirty, messy, unscrupulous, or unclean - especially things that might give the appearance of such characteristics. But it’s not that Venus in Libra is necessarily prudish, or closed-off - quite the opposite, when you consider the native’s ability to connect with others using their unmistakable charm, wit and good manners (and, let’s be honest, good looks). But there is something to be said about the selective nature of this placement. Yes, friendliness and kindness are important, but not at the expense of one’s personal values and standards. Those closest to folks with Venus in Libra probably know that a big reason why they have earned a coveted spot in their inner circle is because they too possess the charming and magnanimous qualities that Venus in Libra is so known for. 

Sexually, Venus in Libra most probably aligns with the classic love-at-first-sight narrative: while enjoying a fabulous night out, drinking champagne and eating a gourmet meal, you lock eyes with a beautiful stranger across the room. It feels like you’ve known this person forever, and they feel it too. Usually, you don’t do one-night stands, but this doesn’t seem like just a one-night thing - it seems like forever. Okay, so maybe this is just romanticizing, but that is the essence of this placement - romanticizing and beautifying moments of everyday life, even if for just a moment. Venus in Libra yearns to find that special someone - and, while they might have a flirtatious edge to them, partnership for Venus in Libra is the ultimate goal and they’ll stop at nothing to find and maintain that singular relationship with someone special.

Venus in Libra natives typically have little trouble attracting potential friends and mates, eager to put themselves out there and explore their surroundings as they see fit. If you have this placement, take the time to be discerning about who and how you let folks into your well-maintained and manicured world. If you are hoping to win the affections of someone with this placement, understand that this person holds themselves and their friendships to a high standard. Sincere, well-timed compliments and an attention to the small details will get you far. 

Venus in Virgo

If Venus in Leo is the extravagantly debaucherous party that rages on until the wee hours of the morning, then Venus in Virgo is the carefully-executed post-party plan, complete with schedules for the cleaning crew, an organic, plant-based breakfast to cure the hangover, and a nice hot shower to refresh and renew. 

Venus in Virgo natives have an intuitive sense for the minute details that often escape others, and consider their strength in relationships to be directly tied to their powers of observation and how well they are able to anticipate and solve others’ problems. 

Luckily for them, this is one of their superpowers. Those with Venus in Virgo are excellent at observing, planning, and executing, per their lofty standards. To them, love is action, not just passion, or flowery words, or overly grand displays of affection. In fact, these things might not do all that much for them, barring other placements in the birth chart. Love with this placement is an exploration of dedicated devotion, of simplicity put into action, and of attention to detail. Yes, romance matters with this placement, but so do promises, especially when it comes to broken promises. Venus in Virgo needs to know that they can depend on you, just as much as they make it clear that they can be depended on.  

It would be a mistake to ignore the critical nature of this placement. With such high expectations, there is room for disappointment when it comes to the fallible nature of people. Sometimes, Venus in Virgo refuses to believe that sometimes, people are people and they just make mistakes - not out of intentional carelessness, or laziness, but simply because human life is imperfect and sometimes, mistakes happen. 

Consider that Virgo is the sister sign to Pisces, an energy defined by its service, self-sacrifice, intuitive nudges, and co-alignment with the divine, and Virgo’s devotion to otherworldly levels of excellence makes sense. Similar to Pisces, Virgo believes in, and strives toward, perfection in all forms. Of course, for mere mortals this might be difficult to achieve. Venus in Virgo folks may be prone to anxiety or struggle with overthinking and perfectionist tendencies in the pursuit of the ideal partner or relationship. Natives with this placement can benefit from embracing a spirit of objectivity and self-compassion - while they might consider their actions, appearance, or affections as being “not enough”, their ability to go above and beyond the call of duty in their interpersonal relationships is unparalleled. 

There is a quiet sweetness and innocence present with Venus in Virgo. This placement is neither loud nor ostentatious, nor does it ask for more than it’s willing to give of itself. Affection and trust are earned over time here. Love means purity of intention. If you have this placement, embrace your selflessness and eagerness to please those you love. It truly is a special gift. If you hope to win the affections of someone with this placement, consider prioritizing emotional patience and an attention to the small but important details that come with getting to know someone.

Venus in Leo

*cue jungle cat roaring* 

Bodacious, vivacious, and extravagant are all words that come to mind when Venus meets passionate, fiery Leo. But given that Leo is a fixed sign, Venus in Leo natives are known not only for their commitment to the glamorous; these folks have real staying power when it comes to love, romance and intimacy. The caveat here is that this love must feel passionate and enticing more often than not - and herein lies the rub. Most relationships have their natural ebbs and flows, but Venus in Leo may feel threatened or uncomfortable with this idea, thinking that if the courtship-style dramatics and grand gestures reach a slowing point, then the relationship itself is at stake. 

The Venus in Leo paramore may take their sweet time finding the Simba to their Nala, but once they do - you’d be hard-pressed to find a more devoted yet spontaneous and playful partner. Loyalty also plays a big role here - Venus in Leo natives intuitively understand the power of an emotional bond (especially one stoked by the flames of sexual attraction), and will stop at little to maintain the status quo in their relationships, even if it means exerting a little power or putting their foot down if it means getting their way. See, Venus in Leo natives know the power of their love, and know that being with them is powerful, so they’ll stop at nothing to ensure their partner knows (and shows) it too. 

Speaking of sexual attraction, sex plays a huge role in relationships with this placement. Venus in Leo has an intense desire to be wanted and adored - yes, this means emotionally, but also (and especially) physically and sexually. It’s important for natives with this placement to feel that their partner(s) view them as sexually powerful. They don’t take particularly well to more passive, indirect or muted expressions of passion. With this placement, there is an all-or-nothing attitude toward physicality: want all of me, or don’t want me at all. Better yet, need me and feel like you can’t live without me. 

Even though it may seem like Venus in Leo expects a lot in relationships, they return their demands equally, giving all of themselves and then some. There is an eagerness to please and care for others with this placement, given that the object of their affection has proven themselves worthy of such effusive treatment. If you have this placement, don’t be shy about embracing and unleashing your dramatic and passionate nature to those worthy of such demonstrations. If someone you love has this placement, shower your person with attention and affection - they will appreciate it (and so will you!)

Venus in Cancer

Sweet Venus in Cancer - even if you are not a mother, or have little interest in children for that matter, there is a tenderness and fierce loyalty central to your character, similar to that of a maternal figure caring for its offspring. Generally, there is an immense desire with Venus in Cancer to protect that which belongs to it - physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Possessiveness and authentic connection are huge themes with this placement, as the Moon, Cancer’s ruler, connects with Venus here. 

Cancer’s naturally nurturing tendencies blend well with Venus’s sensuality, lending the native an endearing mix of warm hospitality and creative reasoning. But Venus in Cancer isn’t all sweetness and feel-good warm fuzzies - like the crab for which the sign of Cancer represents, beware of the native with Venus in Cancer that encounters feelings of emotional disconnection or, worse, betrayal. Venus in Cancer has an incredible depth and psychic sensitivity to it, which can be both a source of strength and a source of exhausting inner turmoil depending on other factors in the birth chart. What you see is not always what you get with this Venus sign - passive-aggression and emotional manipulation are examples of this Venus sign’s energy being misused or underdeveloped. Cancer ultimately seeks to protect itself and those it deems worthy enough to welcome into its impenetrable crabby shell; when the equilibrium of comfort is thrown off balance, expect emotional drama to be at its height. 

On the brighter side, Venus in Cancer possesses an incredible gift of self-regeneration not found in most other Venus signs. This native lives in a world of fantastical feelings - when it finds its match (quite possibly with someone with Venus in watery Scorpio or Pisces), its powers of attraction and flirtation are unmatched. There’s a sense of comfortable, familiar seduction with this sign - I often relate the classic “girl next door” archetype to Venus in Cancer because natives with this placement have a knack for appealing to others’ most primal and instinctual emotional sensors. On the most basic level, Venus in Cancer lives to make the people it loves comfortable, comforted, cared for, and cherished. Of course, this can also attract people with less pure intentions; even though the emotional epicenter of Venus in Cancer is rather well-attuned, natives here can have a hard time distinguishing between their wants and needs when it comes to sharing their love and affection. 

Cancer Venusians tend to consider the little things as being the big things in relationships. Little things might mean small but meaningful displays of affection like a tender kiss before leaving for work, a subtle hand touch or longing glance during a party, cute, hand-scribbled love notes quietly slipped between the pages of a book, a picture from a first date, or remembering a favorite drink from a romantic getaway years ago. Romance and sentimentality go hand and hand here.

Sexually, Venus in Cancer natives possess a profound well of lustful energy but feel most comfortable expressing it with people they feel they have a richer, more nuanced connection with. Of course, this doesn’t completely outrule Venus in Cancer’s sense of promiscuity or attraction to multiple people at once, but it does mean that even with the prospect of multiple partners, there’s a tendency to focus on just one person at a time if that person is providing them with the emotional depth and stability they ultimately crave. Flings, one-offs and short-lived romances may appeal for a brief period, but more often than not the native will feel unfulfilled by such encounters. With this placement, there is so much to give, so much to pour into and out of, and so much to be gained by doing so.

Venus in Gemini

When sensual Venus meets intellectual and dynamic, mutable air sign Gemini, love and friendship become a traveler’s journey by which to dabble among the details, big and small. If there was ever an astrological placement that believed “variety is the spice of life” when it comes to building and maintaining relationships, it would be this one. To be clear, this doesn’t necessarily spell out multiple lovers or mercurial relationships, although Venus in Gemini certainly won’t have issues finding a pal or a mate - or multiple mates - if that is what they so choose. 

Gemini Venus natives possess unparalleled powers of observation. What deeply inspires the Venus in Gemini native is a commitment to varied perspectives and a willingness to remain open-minded, even when their own opinions may contradict with what or who is in front of them. In fact, Venus in Gemini natives have an uncanny ability to find positive qualities in almost anyone they encounter (and even those they don’t). Now, does that mean their standards aren’t specific or that they are easily emotionally swayed? Not exactly, and herein lies the contradiction of these mercurial Venusians: just as soon as you think you’ve figured them out, they surprise you again, sometimes delightfully so, and sometimes with such a maddeningly fast speed it makes your head spin. Admittedly, this keeps things interesting for them. 

Let’s revisit the “variety is the spice of life” concept. For Gemini Venus, keeping things interesting in relationships is of the utmost importance, and trying new things to discuss later (or in the moment) is a huge turn-on and motivating force. Whether sexually or otherwise, the promise of discovery makes for a good time. 

When it comes to platonic friendships and romantic relationships alike, the concept of true friendship reigns supreme. For Gemini Venus, oftentimes the romantic IS the platonic, and vice versa. It’s not uncommon for Gemini Venus natives to have several non-sexual, strictly platonic friendships that didn’t start off that way, or for friends-with-benefits to suddenly become just friends after realizing it’s better for everyone that way. Or, for the lines to be blurred in both directions. Egoistic pride and emotional ownership are lesser factors here, depending on other placements in the birth chart.

Similar to Venus in Aquarius, Gemini Venus finds that a baseline of friendship is the most important foundation by which all relationships should stem from. This is not to say that Venus in Gemini can’t be romantic in the traditional sense, but real friendship and all the joys that come with it are just as important to and for the Venus in Gemini lover as romantic getaways, candlelit dinners, and expressions of physical and verbal affection. Speaking of verbal affection, the Venus in Gemini lover is probably the most attuned to communicating their thoughts about the relationship than any other Venus sign.

Venus in Gemini natives want to know what their friends and lovers are thinking, want to share their own opinions in real time, and feel utterly incomplete or neglected when their partner refuses or is unable to express how they’re feeling. Assuming there are no harsh aspects to the Venus sign, Venus in Gemini natives have a special inclination for expressing their love verbally and expect the same level of competence in return. Timidity, shyness, and stoicness need not apply. 

Ultimately, what captures the spirit of the Venus in Gemini native is a creative curiosity unencumbered by stuffiness. Adhering to the status quo in relationships won’t get you very far here. There is a real rebel spirit found within those with this placement, and a distinct displeasure with being tied down emotionally. If you are involved with someone who has their Venus in Gemini, let these natives be free in their expression of how they love you, avoid emotional judgement, and communicate openly and without reserve. In return, they will lend you their wings to fly alongside them.

Venus in Taurus

Venus in Taurus represents a gentle emotional sensibility and receptiveness to interpersonal steadfastness and trustworthiness. Herein lies the Zodiac’s traditional paramore - the lover with a rose stuck between their teeth and a bottle of red wine tucked underneath their arm. When Venus meets Taurus, love becomes more than just a four-letter word, and relationships seek to exist at the forefront of the native’s life. To be fair, referring to Venus in Taurus in terms of romantic cliches like red wine and roses is, well, just that - a cliche. With this placement, what you see is not the only thing you get - after earning the decidedly delicious trust of a Venus in Taurus native, what you get offers quite a lot. You’ll be glad you took the time to wait and see. 

With Venus in Taurus, you tend toward emotional groundedness, and seek consistency, loyalty and honesty above all in your interpersonal dealings, both romantic and otherwise. Deeply sensual, the interactions that capture your attention are those that include sensory experiences, like sampling an organic farm-to-table prix-fixe tasting menu or visiting a plant-based apothecary for a private couples’ essential oil and crystal massage, accompanied by singing bowl players. With this Venus placement, details matter, and sensory refinement and thoughtfulness go a long way, especially with the (seemingly) small things. Smelling good, sounding good, and tasting good are all reasons for a Taurus Venus to become enamored - or completely turned off if those details are forgotten or ignored. 

There is a difference here between possession and jealousy, as natives with Venus in Taurus will tell you. Taurus Venusians understand that what theirs is theirs (possession), which includes not only personal items, but people too - if you are their lover or friend, you will know, and they will expect a certain level of loyalty. But they have every right to - because you’ve been vetted over time, in multiple different scenarios, and quietly assessed until they are sure that you can meet their exacting social and emotional standards. Be advised (and relieved) that this is not a one-way street: they also readily give this same attention and dedication in return, with the less-evolved expression of this energy giving of itself first before understanding that others must earn these privileges. 

Now, jealousy is an entirely different green-eyed monster, and one that Taurus in Venus natives will generally avoid, barring other placements in the birth chart. To the Venus in Taurus native, jealousy spells out emotional complication, manipulation, and game-playing, all of which are exhausting and tedious to those with this placement. If they are confronted with reasons to entertain jealous feelings, or find themselves caught in the clutches of jealous friends or lovers, then they will simply graze onto pastures where their energy can be used more constructively. 

The Venus in Taurus native is perhaps not the first friend you text when you’re craving a spur-of-the moment night out, nor are they the person in the relationship that will expect constant variety and stimulation, bailing once things have settled into a more quietly stable routine. But what they lack in zestful spontaneity, they graciously make up for in reliability, trustworthiness, and routine comfort. Deepening relationships over time matters immensely to this Venus sign, and finding someone who is willing to do the work to make it last is the pinnacle of camaraderie, friendship, and romance to them. 

Venus in Aries

As easy as it is to become quickly obsessed with a new, fascinating lover or friend, it is as easy to forget them once something runs amok. But Venus is Aries isn’t merely impulsive; there’s a depth of power and distinct intensity here that attracts casual relationships, platonic pals, and intense long-terms like a moth to a flame.

Captivating and friendly, Venus in Aries energizes those around them with playful humor and a rich well of seemingly never-ending fun. At your best, you are a source of strength, motivation, warmth and passion in relationships, channeling your high-energy ideals to build a powerful emotional empire with your partner. For Venus in Aries, love and relationships are most meaningful when they are bold, inspiring excellence - and maybe even jealousy - from those in your social circle. After all, what is love if not a match between two people with exactingly high standards (and sex drives)? 

Venus in Aries can be big on public displays of affection, especially those that involve grand adventures, exciting surprises, and high-octane experiences. If it’s new, Venus in Aries wants to try it for themselves, whatever “it” is - a new pop-up restaurant only available for a limited time, an avant-garde film, the latest internet hashtag challenge, style trends, etc. The more important thing here is that Venus in Aries then wants to show and tell you - and the throngs of other friends around them - that they tried it first, lest you forget. 

Venus in Aries is naturally flirtatious, eager to expand its horizon wherever and whenever it can. As Aries is a cardinal sign, and of the fire element, Venus in Aries encourages creative experimentation and embraces making new connections, dates, and hookups. There is a sparkling charm here that isn’t much subtle at all; in fact, subtlety holds little weight with Venus in Aries and can be a recipe for disaster for the native. In other words, if you have this placement, know that you are well within your rights to seek the affections of those who can match your spontaneity, sense of competition and quick intensity, full stop. 

And, if you are seeking the affections of someone with Venus in Aries, it’s best to be direct and clear about your intentions - those who are turned on by mystery and a slow, sensual burn (brb, calling Venus in Scorpio) may have a more challenging time here. 

(*please note* I advocate for radical collaboration between the signs. Read more about my perspective on radical collaboration and what this means in terms of sign compatibility). 

For all the self-involved show and tell and pomp and circumstance, Aries Venus is strikingly loyal when they’ve found their match. Venus in Aries knows that authentic loyalty is hard to come by, so when they find the person that can keep up with them physically, emotionally and spiritually, they are ready to risk it all to keep that person happy (they also know that their counterpart will do the same, and won’t become exhausted in the process). Variety is paramount with Venus in Aries, but that doesn’t necessarily spell out infidelity or a fickleness in friendships. In fact, it’s the opposite - Aries Venus seeks, perhaps paradoxically, consistent variety with their person(s) of choice.

Power plays can be downright erotic for the Aries Venus native; exerting one’s power over partners and friends can yield both scintillating and catastrophic results.