Have you heard? Mars retrograde is beginning in Gemini on October 30th, 2022.
We know.
Hearing the word “retrograde” might immediately signal panic, but the best way to deal with a retrograde planet is simply to prepare for it, and we are here to help you do just that.
You do not have to sink into uncertainty or lose control over your emotions during this phase. By acknowledging what Mars retrograde means, and by preparing yourself, you can view this period as an opportunity for growth and enlightenment.
Mars retrograde directly affects our confidence, which is why we have prepared a list of the five vital crystals you need to keep your vibes high this season. You can wear these crystals or meditate with them to get the greatest benefits from them.
But first, let’s dig into why and how Mars retrograde affects this area of our life.
Are you paying attention to your Mars placement in your birth chart? Read Mars In Your Birth Chart to better navigate this retrograde.
What does Mars in Retrograde mean?
When a planet goes retrograde (appears to be moving backward) the energy of that planet is stifled or blocked in some way. Think of reversed Tarot cards when the energy of the card is obstructed.
This means challenges and obstacles appear in areas of our life the planet rules over – for Mars, it’s our ambitions, sex life and anywhere we direct our energy.
When Mars is direct, our energy is assertive and aggressive. When in retrograde, we become hesitant, uncertain, and constantly second-guess ourselves. Our confidence isn’t as high as it normally is, or we may begin to doubt or question our abilities.
While this can be uncomfortable for us, like all planets that go retrograde it provides us with the opportunity to get to know ourselves at a deeper level and, in the case of Mars, we are able to understand better what makes us tick and where we may be lacking in confidence.
Learn more about planets in retrograde by reading: The Ultimate Guide to Retrogrades
The 5 Best Crystals for Mars Retrograde
Crystal 1: Fire Agate
If Mars Retrograde is making you feel particularly dull or lackluster, fire agate is brilliant for helping you feel alive and energized.
Depressed slumps are not uncommon during Mars retrograde. This particular crystal helps provide a spark in the dark and can be that kick up the rear end you need to get you back into action. It is also known to be a protective stone that brings about a lot of calming energy.
Your sexual and creative energies might also struggle under Mars retrograde. Fire agate can actually help stimulate these areas of your life, so keep that in mind.
Try sleeping with the stone underneath your pillow, or have it on your nightstand. You can also have fire agate on your work desk, or beside you when you are working on a project, as this can help reignite some creativity.
Crystal 2: Sunstone
Sunstone is one of those crystals that bring a ray of sunshine with them wherever they go, as the name suggests.
For anyone who is struggling to see the light at the end of the tunnel, or who lacks the confidence to move forward with their plans, sunstone brings vitality a joy. Wearing this crystal around the neck can be particularly effective.
Sunstone instills self-confidence where it is lacking. It allows the real self to shine through and enables you to feel good about yourself and your surroundings, even when things are challenging. It is like a beacon of light that helps you during trying times.
Crystal 3: Carnelian
Mars retrograde inhibits natural self-confidence and courage. Step up, carnelian! Like most orange and red stones, it relates to the Solar Plexus chakra and helps balance our internal energies which relate to strength and courage.
Carnelian promotes creativity and strength. Standing up for ourselves and others can benefit from the noble and warm energies of this stone.
Anything which requires leadership and endurance can be helped along by carnelian. It tackles fear and helps our inner light shine out into the world.
Crystal 4: Citrine
Another crystal that resonates powerfully with the Solar Plexus is citrine. This magnificent crystal strengthens your energy levels and boosts optimism. If you are struggling with pessimism or negative thinking, citrine can help dissolve this.
It transforms negative energy into positive energy. You will be able to see the silver lining in each cloud with this crystal.
Citrine is especially helpful when worn as a pendant. It releases deep-seated fears and encourages you to go for what you want. This crystal helps you believe in yourself and your natural abilities.
Crystal 5: Red Jasper
This is a wonderful crystal if you are struggling with self-worth, which is a real possibility during Mars retrograde. Red jasper may have fiery energy, but its methods are gentle. It boosts self-confidence and the ability to be honest with oneself.
It is known as the Supreme Nurturer and helps to keep you feel grounded. Escapism is common around the time of Mars retrograde. Things become so overwhelming that we want to escape into our own world and not come out.
Red jasper helps us maintain a balance, enabling us to face our fears and push forward, even if the way ahead is frightening.
Stay Confident With This Retrograde!
If you do find yourself struggling with confidence, having trouble maintaining positive energy, internalizing your anger, and having negative thoughts, these crystals can help you get through the troubling times.
Remember to look at Mars retrograde as an opportunity, not a hindrance.
Yes, your energy may experience blips. But every blip is a chance to get to know yourself better. If you are able to think in these terms, then you are harnessing the power of these crystals already, perhaps without even realizing it!
Related article: The Ultimate Guide to Crystal Healing