Fear not, Halloween revelers! Mars goes retrograde on Oct. 30, and it’s not as frightening as you think.
Mars retrogrades only once every other year. While this one will linger until mid-January, it’s a good time to re-prioritize — despite the general lack of motivation.
Red Mars is the planet of action and assertion. When it goes retrograde, however, forward motion seems to stall and alluring intrigues fizzle and fade.
In a more nuanced sense, Mars represents the words and actions we are encouraged not to express in so-called polite society. Take a break from gossip and risk-taking for the rest of the year unless you want to start the next one in a tight spot.
Perhaps the beginning of this retrograde is best for dropping the masks we wear in favor of letting ourselves just be and breathe. And though you may be donning devil suits and spiking the punch at your Halloween party, it won’t be too late to pick up the pieces after this weekend. The end of 2022 is good for meditation and self-care.
When reading personal horoscopes, read your Sun sign for the “big picture” and your rising sign for “where the work is.”
ARIES / ARIES RISING
March 21 – April 19
Mars square Jupiter: Yes, it’s hard for you, but pick your battles. You’ll never win if you take on everything that needs changing.
TAURUS / TAURUS RISING
April 20 – May 20
Venus opposite Uranus: Expect a windfall in terms of love or money. But don’t let that lucky feeling lead you to anything too “out there.”
GEMINI / GEMINI RISING
May 21 – June 20
Mercury square Pluto: Though you wear many masks, you can let go of them this weekend. Stay optimistic about what’s to come.
CANCER / CANCER RISING
June 21 – July 22
Moon conjunct Saturn: Hindrance rears its head at home as you deal with sour situations. Deep breaths.
LEO / LEO RISING
July 23 – Aug. 22
Venus conjunct Sun: Loving has never been so easy. Let yourself shine and be loved.
VIRGO / VIRGO RISING
Aug. 23 – Sept. 22
Mercury square Pluto: You’re in high spirits. Stay open-minded, optimistic, and focused on the future.
LIBRA / LIBRA RISING
Sept. 23 – Oct. 22
Venus opposite Uranus: Keep your eyes wide open for gifts of love or money strewn across your path, lest they trip you up.
SCORPIO / SCORPIO RISING
Oct. 23 – Nov. 21
Mars square Jupiter: Hold back and don’t let your impulses rule, especially when you’ve been provoked. Getting bent out of shape will get you nowhere.
SAGITTARIUS / SAGITTARIUS RISING
Nov. 22 – Dec. 21
Jupiter sextile Pluto: Some things may change for the better. Whether good things come by your hand or another’s, hold onto them tightly.
CAPRICORN / CAPRICORN RISING
Dec. 22 – Jan. 19
Saturn square Uranus: You may find you’re feeling blocked. If so, try to go with the flow and keep your mind open to all things new.
AQUARIUS / AQUARIUS RISING
Jan. 20 – Feb. 18
Saturn square Uranus: Be opportunistic this week. At least it’s one way to break free from what’s holding you back.
PISCES / PISCES RISING
Feb. 19 – March 20
Jupiter sextile Pluto: Positive changes are springing up all around, like mushrooms in the woods. Gather them now; the season is short.
