Astrology 101: Mars Retrograde Do's and Don'ts

Newsflash, mga Kapuso! All planets go retrograde, not just Mercury. And much like the notorious Mercury Retrograde, there are things you need to be wary about during a Mars Retrograde period. Read on to find out what happens during this phase and what are the do's and don'ts according to astrology.LINK:

Source: NASA

What Mars Retrograde means in astrology

Mars Retrograde happens every two years or so. It is when the planet Mars appears to move backward in the sky.

This is actually only an optical illusion, but in astrology, it signifies a slowdown in some areas of people's lives, just like a Mercury Retrograde phase.

Astrologer and author Annie Botticelli describes a planetary retrograde as similar to having an off day, where everything seems to be not quite right and you're cranky and not as productive as you'd like to be.

So, when Mars moves into retrograde motion, the things that it rules get a little bit sleepy.

The planet Mars is known to rule initiation, action, moving forward, war, fire, the military, weapons, sharp objects, survival instinct, sexual relationships, and objects with metals like gadgets.

So, expect delays, difficulties, sudden mishaps, and a slump in energy or progress in anything that has to do with the things mentioned above.

Café Astrology also says that Mars Retrograde puts a stronger focus on the past and may cause a strong desire to go back and fix old problems

And when it comes to your goals and projects, Mars Retrograde will feel like the universe is forcing you to slow down. So, they advise that it's best to adapt to a wait-and-see attitude and take things slowly.

Don'ts during Mars Retrograde

1. Don't begin a new project, business, work, or anything new.

According to Annie Botticelli, it is the worst time to launch new things of any kind. So, don't force anything to move forward. Use this time to put your ducks in a row instead or carry on with other already existing projects. Annie emphasizes that it's okay to continue with projects you've already initiated before the retrograde.

2. Don't get an elective surgery or cosmetic procedure.

Since Mars rules sharp objects and things that are made of metals such as knives, needles, and scalpel, things can go terribly wrong during operations when Mars is in retrograde. So, avoid elective and cosmetic surgeries, unless it's necessary in a life and death situation.

If anything, Annie says Mars Retrograde is a great time to do inner work such as getting psychological help and undergoing anger management. It is also believed to be a good time to have neurological symptoms and vision problems checked.

3. Don't pick a fight or start an argument.

Larry Schwimmer of Elephant Journal warns that people should pay attention to their actions during Mars Retrograde as more will be compelled to act upon the negative side of Mars such as frustration and anger. So, bring lots of patience and keep a cool head when driving and turn the other cheek when provoked, as many will be on edge during Mars Retrograde.

4. Don't begin a legal battle.

Mars is known as the God of War and any battles initiated during a retrograde period will likely not have favorable outcomes for the initiator. It's best to wait for Mars to go direct before you file a lawsuit or divorce.

5. Don't buy mechanical tools or equipment.

As mentioned earlier, Mars rules anything made of metals and the retrograde period is not a good time to purchase things made of such material. You may buy something and discover that it doesn't live up to its hype or that the one you bought is faulty.

Do's during Mars Retrograde

1. Try to figure out what you want.

Retrograde periods are auspicious for reflection and doing inner work, and Mars rules people's wants or desires. So, it's the best time to set goals and do a vision board.

2. Be careful of accidents and violence.

During Mars Retrograde people may act out the negative energies of Mars and throw a fit -or worse, have violent outbursts. Plus, since Mars rules weapons, sharp objects, and war, be extra careful about accidents that may happen involving these things.

3. Compromise to resolve issues.

Since many will be hot-headed during this period, opt to be level-headed one and initiate compromise in order to resolve conflicts.

As Larry Schwimmer of Elephant Journal writes, “Be assertive and diplomatic in your communication--not aggressive and humiliating. Even if others can't control their temper, remember to control yours.”

4. Finish your unfinished business.

As mentioned earlier, things from the past may suddenly pop up during a Mars Retrograde period. So, if old issues are unearthed or rears its ugly head unexpectedly, it's best to confront this problem once and for all.

Annie Botticelli also says if you have people who hurt you in the past, Mars Retrograde is an amazing time to forgive.

5. Workout!

Annie suggests that you should put the excess physical energy that Mars Retrograde brings to good use by working on your fitness. Just be careful though not to hurt yourself through overexertion.

Always remember that astrology only serves as a guide or caution to what may happen in the near future. Not everything in astrological forecasts will happen to you for sure.

If anything, use it as a guide to be more mindful of your thoughts and actions, and work accordingly with the energies in order to achieve your goals and live the best life you possibly can.

Want more lifestyle content like this? Head out to GMA's Lifestyle page.

Check out also the meaning of full moons and new moons in astrology:

Source:
https://cafeastrology.com/marsretrograde.html
https://starsignstyle.com/what-to-do-during-mars-retrograde/
https://www.elephantjournal.com/2016/04/mars-is-retrograde-beware-of-your-actions-5-dos-donts/
https://www.anniehelpsyou.com/