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Been feeling a little grumpy, a little stubborn, a little — well — like a toddler? You may be going through a Mars Return.
In astrology, the alignment of the planets and stars are said to connect to our personal lives. During the Mercury Retrograde, for instance, everything can start to feel just a little off. During the new moon, you may feel drawn to give yourself a fresh start. And during a Mars Return, you may feel your inner obstinate toddler coming out.
According to astrologer Francesca Oddie, your Mars Return occurs “when Mars gets back to the place he was when you were born, your Mars returns.” Because of Mars' orbit, the first Mars return occurs around two or two-and-a-half years after your birth. In other words, around the time of the terrible twos.
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Oddie goes onto explain that every two to two and a half years, Mars returns, bringing with it the stubbornness, drive, and one-track-mindedness of the terrible twos. So, unfortunately, you may find yourself going through several toddler phases throughout your life!
We spoke to Betty Andrews, life coach and astrologer at The Cosmic Co to find out a little more.
Every star sign brings something unique to the table.
What does Mars signify in astrology?
According to Andrews, Mars brings with it a masculine, firm energy. When Mars returns to where it was situated at your birth, it may dominate your energy.
“Mars' placement can indicate where you are likely to assert yourself, face challenges, and express your energy and initiative,” she says.
Here are a few key aspects of Mars energy you may experience:
Mars is all about taking action and starting new ventures. It's the drive that pushes us to move forward and the courage to take the first step. The position of Mars in your chart can indicate how you go about pursuing your goals and the areas of life where you're most likely to take initiative.
Mars governs our desires, sexual energy, and what we're passionate about. It's closely linked to our physical attractions and our way of expressing sexuality. The sign and house placement of Mars in a natal chart can shed light on what someone desires and how they express passion and intensity in relationships.
Mars also rules over conflict, aggression, and how we express anger. It signifies our fighting spirit and how we deal with adversity. Understanding Mars' placement can help us comprehend our instinctual reactions to frustration and anger, as well as our potential for aggression.
The energy of Mars is not just about battling; it's also about bravery and standing up for what we believe in. Mars inspires courage, helping us to face fears and overcome obstacles. It's the assertive force that encourages us to stand our ground and defend ourselves and others.
Prepare to get in your feelings.
How to track your Mars return
The first step is to find out where Mars was when you were born.
“You need to know the exact position (degree and sign) of Mars in your birth chart,” she explains. “This information can be found by creating a natal chart using your birth date, time, and location.”
You'll then need to track where Mars is now — this isn't always so easy. “By consulting an ephemeris, you can find out when Mars will return to the exact position it was in when you were born. An ephemeris is a table that lists the positions of the planets at any given time,” she says.
“Alternatively, many astrology software programmes and apps can calculate this for you automatically.”
Once you know when your Mars return is, be sure to make note of it — according to Andrews, the effects of your Mars return can be felt in the weeks leading up to the exact date.
How to navigate your Mars return
Because the Mars return brings a new energy, it can be hard to navigate if you aren't prepared. Plan ahead and be mindful of how you respond the shifting energies inside you:
- Set Clear Goals: Knowing what you want to achieve during this Mars cycle can help you channel the planet's dynamic energy productively.
- Be Mindful of Impulsiveness: Mars can also make you more impulsive or aggressive. Practise patience and think before you act, especially in situations that could lead to conflict.
- Take Care of Your Body: Mars rules physical activity, so it's a good time to engage in exercise or any activity that helps you manage stress and channel your energy positively.
- Embrace Challenges: View any obstacles as opportunities to grow and strengthen your resolve. Mars provides the courage needed to face difficult situations.
- Consult an Astrologer: For a deeper understanding, consider consulting with a professional astrologer. They can provide personalised insights about your Mars return and how to make the most of this period based on your entire birth chart.
Here's what it means for your star sign.
The Mars return can also be a great time to reflect on what drives you and make real changes in your life. If you know your Mars return is on its way, it may be a good time to:
- Initiate New Projects: The return of Mars to its natal position heralds a cycle of renewed vigour and initiative. It's an excellent time to start new ventures or to push forward with existing projects.
- Reassess Your Desires and Actions: Reflect on your goals, desires, and the methods you use to achieve them. Mars' energy can help you assert yourself more effectively and fight for what you want.
- Confront and Overcome Challenges: Mars is about courage and confrontation. This period might bring challenges, but it also gives you the strength to face them head-on.
- Focus on Self-Improvement: Mars encourages individuality and self-assertion. Use this time to focus on personal development, especially in areas related to the house and aspects Mars is making in your chart.
