Mars Retrograde Meaning & More

Psychologically, Mars is associated with the process of individuation, the gradual unfolding of selfhood that only seeks to please itself. Mars may erupt into ruthless action when sufficiently traumatized, however, blindly striking forward with Machiavellian cunning. Mars is also our inner survivalist, battling the elements and opposition for the right to thrive. Mars is often associated with choleric emotions like anger and frustration.

Mars retrograde also touches upon something far more nuanced: the fact of the matter is that Mars is not always metabolized well in polite society. From a very early age, we are taught to sublimate our primal, individual needs for the greater good of the community. Harsh words are tucked away in place of silent smiles, as we are coached to say nothing at all if we have nothing nice to say. No surprises then, that we later find ourselves with repressed Martial instincts, struggling to stand up for or assert ourselves when the occasion calls for it. Our teachers may have been too successful in transmitting this twisted piece of modern culture: we inherit the ability to see wrong and say nothing, and even further, to be wronged and to do nothing.

During Mars retrograde, we are likely to confront this part of ourselves, releasing rogue units of anger which seemingly flash out from nowhere. As we delve deep into areas of unresolved conflict, we are given the opportunity to reimagine these parts of our lives, allowing new and improved impulses to take charge. Mars retrogrades are ideal times to re-examine where we're going, and why, allowing for necessary re-writes. At the end of Mars retrograde, we see our path with a fresh set of eyes, discovering new ways to merge motivation and meaning.

Libidinous energies may also be repressed, keeping us from expressing our sexual and physical needs. Keeping the more difficult emanations of Mars under wraps, particularly anger, may lead to outbursts of repressed rage, depression, and even Mars-like bodily responses such as fevers and rashes. Some Mars retrograde folks may find that while they flounder in moments which call for aggression, they excel in matters of passive-aggression and have a peculiar, roundabout way of achieving their desires.

Like Saturn retrograde, Mars retrograde in the natal chart may indicate issues with the father or father figures. While Saturn retrograde in the natal chart suggests an absentee father figure, leaving its bearer unable to generate self-worth and suitable boundaries, Mars retrograde manifests differently.

Natal Mars retrograde describes a father (or father figure) who may have been relatively listless or ineffectual in his ability to direct his will. Without a role model to demonstrate the appropriate journey from intention to action, Mars retrograde individuals may find difficulty in setting defined goals, preferring to hide behind nebulous, unspecific plans. At its most extreme, this may make us less able to stand up for ourselves or strike out in search of personal fulfillment.