Mars Retrograde Meaning
Mars retrograde in transit is a regular cycle occurring every 25 months, lasting 80 days, and spanning 13 degrees of the zodiac. It is the second rarest of the retrogrades after Venus, occurring only 9% of the time. Transiting Mars retrograde is a time for thinking before acting. Fated events and repeating themes will reinforce which of your intense desires need more background work before being acted upon.
Mars retrograde means that whatever area of sexuality or decisive action you must develop is so important that extra time is needed to take stock and ensure everything is in order before you continue. Fated events may occur that could be painful but are needed, so you back off and don’t make a significant mistake.
You may also have struggled with destructive behaviors like anger, rage, violence, or sexual abuse. If so, the retrograde phase will bring fated events that force you to admit you have some anger management issues. This, too, could be a harrowing experience for you.
By the time Mars stations direct, you should have come to terms with the relevant issues. This contemplative stage is over; you are ready to come out of your shell, confidently assert yourself, and act on your desires.
Mars Retrograde Dates
- September 9 to November 13, 2020 – 28° to 15° Aries
- October 30, 2022, to January 12, 2023 – 25° to 8° Gemini
- Dec 6, 2024, to Feb 23, 2025 – 06° Leo to 17° Cancer
- January 10 to April 1, 2027 – 10° Virgo to 20° Leo
Mars Retrograde Natal
Natal Mars retrograde suggests you find it difficult to express your sexuality, competitiveness or strength. Perhaps you struggle with being direct, courageous, or showing initiative. You tend to internalize these everyday, healthy expressions of Mars energy so that you hesitate, take action at the wrong time, or have psychological hangups about sexuality or gender.
This fear of taking decisive action and standing up for yourself stems from past life crises related to injury and pain. You may have fallen victim to a violent death, war crime or rape. Maybe you were victimized and abused because of your sexuality. It could even be the case that you lost your temper and severely hurt or killed someone.
There are endless possible scenarios of how Mars energy can turn destructive once your adrenaline kicks in and you act on primal instincts in survival mode. Whatever the case, whether victim or perpetrator, you come into this life with a deep understanding of the pain that results from Mars in a state of rage.
It is understandable, therefore, that you are somewhat cautious about taking risks or leaving yourself in a vulnerable position. While young, painful past life experiences may be repeated, though not to the same extreme.
Mars retrograde in your natal chart subjects you to many fated events to bring you out of your shell and teach you how to express Mars energy safely. Aspects to Mars and any fixed star conjunctions will give more detail on handling Mars retrograde in your natal chart.
