Feeling unmotivated? Mars retrograde might be to blame.
Let’s back up a sec—what does retrograde mean?
We say that a planet is in retrograde when it appears to move backward in its orbit in relation to the Earth. This happens because each planet completes its orbit around the sun at its own unique pace.
In astrology, each planet governs a specific aspect of life. When a planet is in retrograde, we are compelled to slow down and reflect on this area. Sometimes when planets are in retrograde it seems like they raise difficult and undue challenges. But ultimately, these obstacles make us stronger in the long run.
Mars retrograde only happens every other year for about two to three months. Lucky (and by lucky, I mean not-at-all lucky) for us, Mars went into retrograde on September 9th, just in time for fall semester.
Get ready for a change in pace.
Mars is the planet of action. It rules motivation, impulses, desires, sexuality, courage, and anger. Things will slow down during this time, giving you the perfect opportunity to reassess these areas of your life. Unfortunately, it can also lead to procrastination, tension, and frustration.
Basically, Mars retrograde will make the challenges we’re all facing due to covid-19 even more pronounced. You might find it harder to wake up for your 8:30 Zoom lectures and you might have more unnecessary conflict with your roommates (or with your parents, if you’re living at home). Other effects include a decreased sex drive, a tendency to second guess your impulses, and less passion for your co-op placement or part-time job.
Remember that the lack of motivation you feel might not have anything to do with your program, your relationship, or your job. When in doubt, I say you should blame it on Mars. But don’t worry! Mars will go direct (aka back to normal) on November 13th.