Happy Valentine’s Day, Your Darkness: Saturn Retrograde in Libra

Valentines Day

Photo by Fliker_2000 | CC 2.0 license

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, the dark planet Saturn is retrograde in the sky. This wouldn’t be such a big deal if the relationship sign Libra weren’t involved. But alas, Saturn has been traveling through the sign of the scales since October 2009, and will continue through 2012. A retrograde planet always asks that we reevaluate certain aspects of our lives, and then make a decision to act once the planet in question begins to move forward again. With Saturn retracing its steps through the sign that governs marriage and partnership, the message becomes quite clear: We either take this opportunity to recommit to our one-on-one relationships, or go our separate ways.

I’m sure the gloom and doom associated with Saturn is not what we want to think about on the most romantic day of the year. But with pseudo names such as Dark Prince, Father Time or my fav—the Taskmaster—the lessons of Saturn in Libra should never be overlooked. This planet is concerned with hard work, discipline and reality checks. Libra is concerned with peace, harmony and romantic pairings. Saturn in Libra will shake down any relationship that fails to promote our own personal growth and well-being, or challenge us to take the next steps in a partnership that brings us to a higher level of relating. Whatever the manifestation, now is the time to decide what it’s going to be.

This planetary transit has wreaked havoc on some of the most famous, off-screen celebrity couples. The split of Sandra Bullock and Jesse James comes to mind, and even that of Eva Longoria and Tony Parker (never saw that one coming!). But there have been some memorable mergings too, like the marriage of Nicole Richie to Joel Madden, or Penelope Cruz and Javier Bardem. Saturn in Libra can make or break us, but ultimately the choice is ours. Since we are inevitably responsible for our own happiness, we have every right to be selective in terms of the significant others we bring into our lives. If there is a common affinity and willingness to commit, with a majority of needs being met, we might as well give it a try … or deal with Saturn in trying to make it work.

Luckily, there will be a bevy of planets in the sign of Aquarius on February 14th; the Sun, Mercury and Mars to name a few. Aquarius is a sign that understands all too well the importance of “We,” and alongside his airy sister Libra, this Valentine’s Day could mean a fresh start to something (or someone) new. Check your Sun and Rising signs below for a hint of what may be in store. Until then … Happy Valentine’s Day!

AriesAries: Libra is your opposite sign, and with Saturn’s influence, you are definitely going to face some challenges in your one-on-one relationships. Libra is concerned with “the Other.” Aries is concerned with “the Self.” Find the balance this Valentine’s Day, Aries. Make it work.

Single? Pamper your date, Aries! Show them that you only have their best interests at heart … give them some good lovin’!

TaurusTaurus: Libra is kind of like your cousin, Taurus, as you are both ruled by beauty planet Venus. This Valentine’s Day, Saturn in Libra would like for you to consider how you may be of service to your significant other. I’m sure you could find several innovative ways!

Single? Volunteer as Cupid this Valentine’s Day, and be a wingman to a friend. You never know who you might meet as a result!

GeminiGemini: Libra for you represents recreation, romance and creativity. Saturn here stresses the importance of finding creative ways to express your love to the one you adore. Tap into your sentimentality, Gemini. I’m sure your lover would enjoy meeting your romantic Twin!

Single? You are naturally chatty, Gem. Take a chance on an online dating site and create a profile that puts you in the spotlight!

CancerCancer: Saturn in Libra creates challenges surrounding domesticity. You’re a Cancer though, and domesticity is your forte. Maybe you could put off your daily chores around the house, and leave the kids with the sitter this Valentine’s Day. You’ll need an empty nest in order to properly seduce your paramour!

Single? Invite your crush over for dinner, wine and a romantic comedy. It could lead to your own personal love story.

LeoLeo: This planetary transit is asking you to think of all the ways you could say, “I Love You.” Maybe you could write a love poem, or send a heartfelt letter. Whatever you decide, you can be certain that the message will get through to your chosen mate, and even more certain that it will be reciprocated.

Single? Why don’t you sign up for a speed dating event, Leo? This Valentine’s Day, you may end up chatting the night away with next year’s date!

VirgoVirgo: The combination of Saturn and Libra is forcing you to recognize your worth to yourself and others. Go buy yourself something pretty this Valentine’s Day, Virgo … something that makes you feel good and alive. Then wear it on your date!

Single? Still go out and buy yourself something pretty this Valentine’s Day, Virgo … then wear for yourself!

LibraLibra: Saturn on your Sun is a bit of a damper, Libra. But Valentine’s Day is all about love and romance. Treat your lover to dinner and a night at the theater. Show them just how Saturn serious you are about the relationship and commitment.

Single? Take this time to figure out what it is you want in a relationship, Libra. You shouldn’t waste time getting to know others until you know yourself!

ScorpioScorpio: Saturn in Libra brings deep feelings to the surface. Not only are you aware of your deepest longings, but you want to share them with your significant other. Show them the depths of your soul, Scorpio … stop being so secretive.

Single? Run a warm bath, light a few candles, and journal about your deepest fantasies. They may become a reality in the near future!

SagittariusSagittarius: Saturn in Libra challenges you to expand your network of associates and become more group-oriented. Why not reserve a table for 10 at your local Brazilian steakhouse this Valentine’s Day, and invite your friends, old and new? You and your date will be most comfortable in a communal setting!

Single? Take yourself to an event that puts you out of your element. One new contact could become a lifelong love.

CapricornCapricorn: Something tells me there will be work involved for you this Valentine’s Day, as Saturn in Libra highlights your career. This is not going to fly with your partner, my Cappie friend. I suggest you play hooky just this once … and invite your partner along!

Single? Remember the movie The Proposal? Rent it on DVD and give yourself a new perspective … it may open your mind to love.

AquariusAquarius: This transit asks you to broaden your horizons and philosophies, especially in regards to your relationships with others. Travel as far as Bali, or as close as your local B&B, Aquarius. It could do wonders for your relationship. Whatever you decide, make it enchanting!

Single? Take yourself to a spoken word event, and be inspired. Who knows, you yourself may become the muse of someone special.

PiscesPisces: Saturn combined with Libra challenges you to reach a more intimate space of being. With the right person, it shouldn’t be too hard, right? Schedule a spa massage for two this Valentine’s Day, and spend the evening laid up with your lover.

Single? Now would be a great time to explore you, Pisces … mind, body and soul.

About the Author

Tracey L. RogersTracey L. Rogers is forever a student of Astrology, with a wide range of interests that stem from Saturn the archetype to topics in Mundane Astrology. Blogging about the current cosmic climate is a passion for Tracey. You can follow her at Randomness of Rudy and schedule a personal consultation.