January 24—April 13, 2012
2012 is a big year for retrograde planets as both Venus and Mars will be retrograding along with Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn and the outer planets—Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. Most of the planets retrograde several times a year, but Mars only turns retrograde approximately once every two years, and Venus once every 18 months. I am often asked, “what exactly does it mean when a planet is retrograde?” Retrograding planets appear to move backwards from our point on Earth, as they orbit around the Sun. However, they don’t really move backward, but rather move at an apparent backward speed from our Earth-centered perspective at certain times of the year.
Mars is the planet of passionate outward action and manifestation. Therefore, from an Astrological perspective, retrograde Mars will promote a period of introspection. Because this particular Mars retrograde falls in the sign of Virgo and makes a wonderful aspect to Jupiter in Taurus it will promote analytical introspection, as well as expanded philosophical awareness. This signature will provide an opportunity to examine our egotistic actions and to strive for greater humility. It is an important time of considered response versus impulsive reaction. Because Mercury rules Virgo,and therefore our thought processes, it will be essential to listen to our inner guidance system versus external ego-based desires.
This will also be a great time for evaluating our day-to-day work habits. Is our ego attached to the outcome of our work or are we able to create (work) based on a calling from deep within? With Mars and Jupiter both falling in the Earth signs of Virgo and Taurus we can take advantage of this retrograde introspective period and plan for our future security. Virgo is also associated with the holy trinity of body-mind-spirit. If any one of these three areas is neglected, we can find ourselves in physical, mental or spiritual crisis. Therefore, this is a great period to reorganize our time, so we are balancing the important aspects of our inner versus outer world.
Key Phrases for Mars Retrograde:
Return to my center “core” self.
Examine my ego-based actions.
Develop Virgo humility.
Listen to inner vs. outer based desires.
Create considered response vs. impulsive action.
Find physical, mental, and spiritual balance.
Click here to schedule your personal 2012 Astrological Consultation.
Copyright 2012 by Linda Kaye
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