Have you heard? Mars retrograde begins on December 3, 2024 in Leo.
We get it.
Hearing the word “retrograde” could immediately indicate panic, but the best way to deal with a retrograde planet is simply prepare yourself for it, and we are here to help you with that.
You don’t have to sink into uncertainty or lose control of your emotions during this phase. By recognizing what Mars retrograde means and preparing yourself, you can see this period as an opportunity for growth and enlightenment.
Mars retrograde has a direct influence on our self-confidence. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the five essential crystals you need to keep your spirits high this season. You can wear these crystals or meditate with them to get the greatest benefits from them.
But first, let’s look at why and how Mars retrograde affects this part of our lives.
What does Mars in retrograde mean?
When a planet goes retrograde (appears to be going backwards), that planet’s energy is suppressed or blocked in some way. Think of reversed Tarot cards when the card’s energy is hindered.
This means that challenges and obstacles will appear in areas of our lives that the planet rules – for Mars, that’s our ambitions, our sex lives and wherever we focus our energy.
When Mars is direct, our energy is assertive and aggressive. When we are in retrograde, we become hesitant, insecure and constantly doubt ourselves. Our self-confidence is not as high as normal, or we start to doubt our abilities.
While this can be uncomfortable, like all planets going retrograde, Mars offers us the opportunity to get to know ourselves on a deeper level. We can better understand what drives us and where we may be lacking 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 great for making you feel alive and energetic.
Depressive slumps are not uncommon during Mars retrograde. This particular crystal provides a spark in the dark and can be the kick you need to get back into action. It is also known as a protective stone that produces a lot of calming energy.
Your sexual and creative energies may also struggle under retrograde Mars. Fire agate can actually help stimulate these areas of your life, so keep that in mind.
Try sleeping with the stone under your pillow, or place it on your bedside table. You can also have fire agate on your desk or next to you when you are working on a project, as this can help reignite creativity.
Crystal 2: Sunstone
Sunstone is one of those crystals that, as the name suggests, carries a ray of sunshine everywhere it goes.
For anyone who struggles to see the light at the end of the tunnel or lacks the confidence to move forward with their plans, sunstone brings vitality and joy. Wearing this crystal around the neck can be particularly effective.
Sunstone inspires self-confidence where it is lacking. It lets the real self shine through and allows you to feel good about yourself and those around you, even when things are tough. It is like a beacon of light that helps you in difficult times.
Crystal 3: Carnelian
Mars retrograde inhibits natural self-confidence and courage. Come on, carnelian! Like most orange and red stones, it relates to the Solar Plexus Chakra and helps balance our internal energies associated with 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.
Carnelian can help with anything that requires leadership and endurance. It tackles fear and helps our inner light shine into the world.
Crystal 4: Citrine
Another crystal that resonates powerfully with the Solar Plexus is Citrine. This beautiful crystal strengthens your energy level and stimulates optimism. If you struggle with pessimism or negative thinking, citrine can help resolve this.
It transforms negative energy into positive energy. This crystal allows you to see the silver lining in every cloud.
Citrine is especially useful when worn as a pendant. It releases deep-seated fears and encourages you to pursue your goals. This crystal helps you believe in yourself and your natural abilities.
Crystal 5: Red Jasper
This is a wonderful crystal if you struggle with self-esteem, which is a real possibility during Mars retrograde. Red Jasper may have fiery energy, but its methods are gentle. It increases self-confidence and the ability to be honest with oneself.
It is known as the Supreme Provider and helps you stay grounded. Escapism is common around the time of Mars retrograde. Things become so overwhelming that we want to escape into our own world and never want to come out.
Red Jasper helps us maintain balance, allowing us to face our fears and move forward, even when the road ahead is frightening.
Stay confident with this retrograde!
If you Doing If you find yourself struggling with self-confidence, having trouble maintaining positive energy, internalizing anger and having negative thoughts, these crystals can help you get through the tough times.
Remember to view Mars retrograde as an opportunity and not a hindrance.
Yes, your energy may experience glitches. But every beep is an opportunity to get to know yourself better. If you can think in these terms, you are already tapping into the power of these crystals, perhaps without even realizing it!