When it comes to astrology, there are few things as intriguing or as captivating as learning about the planets. Many people believe that the unique energy and archetypes of each planet bring with them universal human truths and insights. If we’re going to talk about planets that have captivated the imagination of humans for millennia, then there’s no doubt that one of the top contenders is Mars.
Mars is the fourth planet in our solar system, located just beyond Earth’s orbit. It’s often referred to as the “Red Planet” due to its distinctive reddish appearance, which is caused by the abundance of iron oxide, or rust, on its surface.
Mars in Astrology
In astrology, Mars is associated with masculine energy, aggression, assertion and passion. It’s linked to our drive, our ability to be self-starting, and our ability to take decisive action. The planet is named after the Roman god of war, and it’s believed to reflect our sense of power, ambition, and competitiveness. Mars is the ruler of Aries and the first house, and used to be the ruler of Scorpio, prior to the discovery of Pluto.
If you were born with Mars in a prominent position in your birth chart, you may feel an extra boost of energy and enthusiasm for life. A well-placed Mars shows an ability to wield a healthy assertion. You may be driven to pursue your goals with relentless determination, and you may have a natural talent for leadership and taking charge.
However, it’s worth noting that Mars can also have a downside. When this planet is afflicted or in a lot of hard aspects in a person’s chart, it can reflect feelings of anger, aggression, frustration, impulsiveness, and even anxiety. If you’ve ever felt like you’re always running hot and taking risks without thinking things through, your Mars energy may be in overdrive.
Mars in Retrograde
So, what does it mean if Mars is retrograde? Retrograde motion occurs when a planet appears to be moving backward in the sky due to its orbit around the sun. This is usually a time to reflect and learn about how we express our Mars.
When Mars goes retrograde, it could feel like your sense of motivation and drive may be tested. You may experience setbacks or delays in your plans and feel more easily frustrated or stuck. This can be a challenging time for those who rely heavily on their Mars energy to get things done.
On the other hand, a Mars retrograde period can also be a time for introspection and reflection. You may be forced to slow down and reassess your strategies for success and consider whether there are better ways to achieve your goals. The energy of Mars may be less external and more internal during this time, requiring a shift in mindset and approach.
When born with Mars Retrograde, it may be harder for you to express yourself assertively, or you might go overboard. Learning and growing can always be done, though, through therapy, self reflection and other avenues. You can even get hints, through your other astrological placements and Mars aspects, as to places in your life where it will be easier to express yourself in a healthy way.
Making Your Own Choices
Of course, it’s important to remember that astrology guarantees nothing. Just because you were born with Mars in a certain position or are experiencing a retrograde period doesn’t mean your life is predetermined. Free will, personal choice, and individual circumstance all play a role in shaping your path.
Mars is a very action-oriented planet, and is one of what’s called the personal planets. It reflects a level of personal consciousness that is palpable. The sign and house that your Mars is in within YOUR chart will color it more and tell you where it will most play out in your life.
It can be fascinating to explore the energies and meanings behind the planets as they relate to astrology — and where they are in your natal chart. Mars is an especially intriguing planet due to its connection with the Roman god of war, and its association with ambition, power, and competition. Whether you feel its influence in your own life or simply admire it from afar, there’s no denying that Mars holds a powerful place in the realm of astrology.
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