Mars Retrograde in Love

Mars has been retrograde since 17 April. Many of my clients have brought me questions directly relating to relationship issues (and ex’s) resurfacing, the preface re- being relevant to any retrograde period. This influence will last until Mars goes direct on 29 June. Mars rules the libido (sex drive), ambition, motivation, vitality levels and – on a global scale – war.

It almost goes without saying that this retrograde period will affect intimate relationships deeply. Some of the things you may have already noticed is that you may be more critical of and have less patience with little annoying habits of your other half. Although for signs ruled by Mars (Scorpio and Aries), or for Capricorn (Mars exalted), the opposite may be true. What, a placid Aries?! Yes, I know, I know… but it could totally be happening right now.

For many of us, lessons about healthy ways to express anger arise from ‘accidental’ unhealthy expressions which seem sprung on us like a bear trap. Someone could shove into you at the supermarket for instance (happened to a friend of mine yesterday, so true story!) and start having a go at you for not moving out of the way quickly enough. Don’t judge yourself too harshly if you snap back at them. Use this Mars Rx for reflection and coming up with a strategy for how to deal with this next time instead.

On the plus side, now could be a good time to spice up your love life by venturing outside your safe zone. Mars Rx cuts us some slack for getting experimental. Oh and no-strings ‘sex with the ex’ is certainly a menu option during this retrograde. Just don’t jump back in the sack with high hopes of winning them back.

New relationships could suffer because one of you may (seemingly out of the blue) need to go over old ground with an ex. The thing to do if you find yourself in this situation is to avoid going into panic mode. Give your partner space and ride it out. If it is meant to be, they will come back to you. The last thing you want to do is come across as needy, clingy and demanding – unless you want to drive them permanently back into the arms of their ex, of course.

Those of you who are coupled and not inclined to experiment may find that your sex life may need a bit of extra help. Don’t be afraid to lend a hand (tee hee) in whatever sense you imagine if you’re not up for full-on ‘coitus’ as Sheldon Cooper would say. Also, be OK with speaking up and letting your partner know you don’t feel like it rather than using white lies to make up excuses. Retrogrades are here to help us own our shit and this is one way you can do your bit.

Some of you will have your libido suffer from work more than the actual relationship. Emotionally, you and your partner may be fine but you could be coming home totally exhausted from work day in and day out. While at work you may find yourself trapped in a sort of strange time warp and your usual efficient self just can’t seem to function properly. Just do your best and, again, be honest with your partner about how you feel and why you are not up for it if that is indeed the case.

The best heads-up I can give in terms of relationships is that they are more likely to end than to begin until Mars goes direct. If they do begin during this time, they are likely to struggle in multiple ways.

In the Tarot, Mars is represented by The Tower which, while feared by many, is a powerful card that can sweep away old stagnant or useless energy really quickly and effectively to clear space for something much better to come into your life. As long as you remain open to change and growth, you should do just fine… 🙂 Expect the unexpected and embrace life’s little ‘accidents’ with a knowing smile on your lips.

Make ‘All change is good’ your mantra and don’t forget to go within to integrate the lessons of the past before you charge ahead again, brave warrior!

For more on the Mars Rx, I refer you to my previous Mars Retrograde post, which also has a couple of Tarot spreads for you to try.

Need some guidance about your love life during this Mars retrograde? Email me today for an email reading or Skype session.

Blessed Be!

Lisa Frideborg

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