On Sunday, October 30, 2022, the red-hot planet, Mars, begins its retrograde journey in Gemini until January 12, 2023. For the next eight weeks or so, a gazillion ideas may bombard you from all directions, so making decisions may prove to be mind-boggling because there are so many options to explore.
Do you hit “send”? Or do you choose a “good enough” option? Or do you choose at all? Whatever you do, first and foremost, make sure it’s based on solid research.
Mars in Retrograde
Mars is known for its hot temper and gut reaction, so arguments with coworkers, neighbours, relatives could easily turn ugly. Do your level best to play nice and avoid gossip. Mars loves physical exertion, so keep that combustive energy under control with good old-fashioned exercise. If you find yourself feeling agitated, it’s simply Mars doing what it does best. It’s protective and, yes, sometimes combative. Like a celestial soldier, it readies us for a fight to protect what we hold dear.
Mars has been hanging out in Gemini since August 20, the Zodiac sign that rules communication, so we can expect to see the global temperament continue to be in disarray, at least until Mars goes direct (still in Gemini) on January 12, 2023. This is not anything new as Mars goes retrograde every other year, which keeps it locked in one or two signs for about seven months. And this is one of those cycles.
The last time Mars flipped into reverse, it was in the fire sign, Aries, from July 27, 2020 to January 6, 2021. And we all know what happened then. Rebellion hit the streets where civilians clashed with law enforcement. Statues of controversial historic figures were toppled or banished to warehouses out of sight. In the U.S., gun-toting citizens tried to obstruct voters from casting ballots during a Presidential election. In the final hours of Mars in Aries, the U.S. Capitol was stormed by rebels, the fallout of which we still feel. The malaise was felt worldwide.
The battle rages on for 2022. Many of us feel exhausted from the tribal antics, disinformation and news hype that’s taunted us for the past few years. And it probably won’t end anytime soon. Although Mars goes direct in Gemini on January 12, it remains in Gemini until March 25, 2023.
What Can You Do?
These next eight weeks are not a good time to be a daredevil or take uncalculated risks. Personal safety is a priority. With Mars in mouthy Gemini, one nasty tweet or remark could burn bridges. Gossip or trusting the wrong people could wreak havoc. Distance yourself from torch throwers and nonstop complainers. Protect your name and identity as Gemini rules mobile gadgets. Be careful where you log on using your phone, laptop or tablet. Strong passwords are not enough to save you from hackers. Check your location settings and delete any questionable apps. Better safe than sorry.
Mental health challenges (ruled by Gemini) could flare up due to the day-to-day pressures. If you find yourself processing bottled-up thoughts that create anger, anxiety or insomnia, mindfulness and mentally soothing practices such as journaling and meditation can cool the fires of Mars in Gemini. Don’t push through challenging times alone. Find someone to talk to or contact a Gentle Trauma Release© practitioner to guide you through your struggles and anxieties. Information on the GTR Method© and graduate practitioners is found here.
Physically, you may find your motivation to exercise falls to the wayside. Adopt a buddy system or a personal trainer as an accountability partner. Join a hiking or cycling club in your neighbourhood. Change your eating habits to see if that impacts your energy levels. Stop skipping breakfast.
Romantically, you may experience some restlessness and start having second, third or fourth thoughts about the future of your relationship. Are you just friends? Are you growing apart? Don’t let your suspicions run wild. The tendency to overthink is high right now and you could easily go into the freeze mode, over-analyzing every word or dragging friends into the drama.
Boredom can lead to mischief, so now’s a good time to get a hobby or fill your life with engaging, interesting friends. Gemini rules the hands, so get touchy-feely with your loved one. And if an ex shows up, it’s best to keep him/her at arm’s length until Mars goes direct in January when you’re thinking more clearly. It could save you some heartache or regret.
Donna S. Vieira is a certified Gentle Trauma Release Practitioner and Astro-Empowerment Coach who uses her knowledge of Astrology in sessions with her clients. She’s also a published freelance travel and lifestyle writer, blogger, and editor who has traveled the globe. You can read about some of her travels at FromMyTravelBag.com. She and her chef husband, Fernando, own Globetrotters Bed & Breakfast/Gallery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada, where they have been welcoming guests from around the world since 2002.