Embracing the Divinity of Venus: A Journey of Self-Discovery and Empowerment

(Photo by Nicole Gadbios)

Aphrodite, Haniel, and the Elementals of Venus have become essential to my journey this year. I have connected more deeply with my feminine side than ever before, and it has been incredibly empowering. I perceive femininity as akin to the ocean; it ebbs and flows, yet can turn cold and precise in an instant. For many years, I associated being womanly with weakness, leading me to adopt a more androgynous or masculine demeanor. I believe this can be traced back to societal conditioning that seeks to dominate and control anything feminine, but I digress.

What I have cherished about learning from Venus and her abundant blessings is her ability to fully embrace her emotions. Many people view feelings as irrational, and while impulsive actions that hurt others are indeed problematic, disconnecting from emotions can be even more frustrating. Emotions arise for a reason—are they tied to preconceived notions from your upbringing, or is someone trying to assert power over you? Practicing meditation can help you approach your feelings without judgment; there is no shame in the power of emotions. In fact, when directed with proper discernment, they can serve as a powerful resource.

I've also come to understand the importance of allowing others to care for me. Having grown up fiercely independent—partly due to an unreliable caregiver and unhealthy relationships—I’ve learned to accept gifts and support when offered. Recently, I found myself in a situation where I needed assistance, and I heard the Goddess whisper to me, “Allow them to take care of you.” In that moment, I saw green and pink sparks dancing around my vision.

Embracing my sensuality has brought me immense freedom. For many years, while working with children and adopting a maternal role despite not having biological kids, I felt confined to a box where being sexy was not an option. Provocative expression was often criticized by the women around me, highlighting the patriarchal conditioning they experienced and the underlying sexism ingrained in society. Additionally, purity culture influenced my upbringing, leading me to view sex as a weapon; I believed that being sexually open or liberated would leave me vulnerable to exploitation. However, Venus has taught me that I have the right to say no and to connect with my desires. The book "Pagan Portals—Aphrodite" makes a compelling point on this topic, “Aphrodite is often noted as a virgin goddess, but not in the sense that you and I might think of this as being celibate. Instead, the word meant more of a being who is always remaining independent. ‘One-in-herself’ as Charlene Spretnak writes. May you too find what is already of yourself. Holy and true.” 

I came across a powerful quote on Instagram that resonates with this idea. The message conveyed that goddesses are not pure; they never have been. Goddesses fully accept their darkness, chaos, and internal struggles. They create upheaval and act as they wish, all in the name of goodness and the pursuit of both inner and outer peace. However, purity is not a defining characteristic. Once more, Aphrodite embodies the role of a troublemaker. Throughout their lives, women or women presenting folks are often instructed to be 'good' and to conform, with the fear of being deemed unlovable if they stray from this path. In contrast, Venus encourages individuals to embrace every aspect of their identity. By acknowledging all their emotions, they can empower themselves to make the best choices for their own well-being.

This year, I embarked on my very first spa trip with one of my closest friends, nestled deep within the Appalachian woods. I seldom indulge in such luxurious experiences, as they can be quite pricey, and I'm quite careful with my finances. However, I felt an undeniable need for this retreat. For years, I had conditioned myself to believe that my worth was tied solely to my contributions to others and my work. It became clear that I needed to practice self-love and prioritize my own well-being. Together, we read the Orphic Hymns dedicated to Aphrodite and Persephone, and then I took time for my personal ritual prayer:

I reclaim by body 
I reclaim my choice
I reclaim my autonomy 

I severe any ties to those who attempted to have dominion over me 
I burn links that try to hold power over me
I free myself from any liminal cords and effects of exploitations 

I am my own sovereign person 
I am wholly myself 
I am ineffable 

My body is my own 
It is the vessel of my spirit 
I exist for me and my pleasure alone

In the holy name of Tetragrammaton, 
I speak this to be true 
I feel it in my bones 

I give myself unconditional love
I give myself unwavering compassion 
I give myself limitless patience

IAO 
AMEN 

Although today is dedicated to Jupiter, I invite you to immerse yourself in the ocean of mysteries that Venus offers tomorrow. This journey leads to self-love, independence, and a sense of true empowerment, as powerful as the crashing waves. Aphrodite embodies the essence of true love, it is like to returning home after a long day at work, collapsing into bed from exhaustion, being wrapped up in a warm blanket, and drifting off to sleep in still peace. Upon waking, you're greeted with a cup of tea on the bed side table prepared by someone you hold dear.

(The information presented on this blog is meant solely for educational purposes. This blog is authored by Calla Marie Rowan of Contemporary Mystic and Witches in the Kitchen.)