Part III of a IV Part Series
Mars is associated with the solar plexus chakra and understanding the condition of Mars in an astrological chart reveals glimpses into themes of the solar plexus chakra. The same is true of Venus and the heart chakra. The more in-depth expression of a planet should also take into account its degree in the zodiac, house position and aspects to it. Let’s continue to keep things light for the chakras.
Mars in the zodiac signs:
- Mars in Aries acts with great energy and determination. This placement fosters uninhibited and forceful action, sometimes leading to impulsiveness and accidents. Think of a rocket – there is immense drive to achieve goals with courage and initiative, as Mars rules Aries.
- Mars in Taurus, well, here Mars moves slowly and deliberately, with a stubborn determination to stick to a particular course of action. Imagine an old steam engine train – steady and driven by practical concerns, with a focus on security and stability. ‘Headstrong’ and unwavering determination are key terms.
- Mars in Gemini, this placement thrives in partnerships, collaborating with others to bring ideas to fruition. Mars in Gemini enjoys conversation and multitasking while in action. Mars enjoys trying to carry out simultaneous tasks and he finally acknowledges to be more focused on one task at a time, after learning through trial and error.
- Mars in Cancer, reveals struggles to express full constructive energy. Picture an energetic lion confined to a small, cushioned room. This can lead to emotional outbursts and irritability. Learning to channel energy into creative outlets is supportive, to assist in this placement.
- Mars in Leo, shows greater ambition and a desire to take on challenges. Think of a performer – natural in front of a crowd and eager to showcase their abilities. This is a person who aims to be leader of the group.
- Mars in Virgo is meticulous, analysing every detail before acting. This careful deliberation can sometimes lead to procrastination. Imagine an anxious person debating on moving to a new home for so long that the opportunity is lost. Missed opportunities crop up.
- Mars in Libra, indicates actions are taken to maintain balance and harmony. Mars in Libra prefers to maintain the status quo, the peace. When it comes time to act and, if a clear and fair route is not obvious, then actions may often be put on hold.
- Mars in Scorpio holds deep reserves of energy that emerge unexpectedly. This placement carries heightened intense energy and an air of mystery. Think of a tennis player appearing to lose the game, but suddenly dominating the final sets to win the match.
- Mars in Sagittarius, this placement thrives on adventure, movement and exploration. Imagine wild horses galloping freely across vast landscapes, driven by a desire to experience life’s journey.
- Mars in Capricorn is disciplined and goal-oriented in actions. Success comes from perseverance and learning from past failures. Think of a five-star hotel chain, built over decades of strategic effort and resilience.
- Mars in Aquarius, here energy is expressed in unpredictable ways. Actions may be unconventional and innovative. Picture a person building a unique house using groundbreaking materials. When inspiration strikes, it should be harnessed effectively. Many ideas spark here, support from others is needed to put them into action.
- Mars in Pisces acts subtly, often more inclined to dream than act. Think of thick mist disrupting travel – it slows progress but does not halt it. This placement requires conscious effort to translate the intention to do something into tangible action.
Action and aspiration
For those seeking enlightenment, contemplation alone is not enough – it must be paired with action. As we become more conscious, there is expansion to aspire to act with kindness, wisdom and understanding.
To enhance the energy of the solar plexus chakra:
- Practise deep belly breathing.
- Give yourself gentle abdominal massages (on an empty stomach).
- Engage in Qi Gong or Tai Chi.
- Validate your achievements, no matter how small, and acknowledge your personal power.
- Take courses in healthy self-assertion.
- Have a mindset of self-empowerment.
Strengthening Mars energy
With Mars we can destroy or create, attack or defend, be the thief / villain or the hero / protector. To harness the power of Mars effectively:
- Participate in sports, running, or self-defence classes.
- Engage in Hatha Yoga.
- Develop logical thinking through strategy-based games.
- Learn basic DIY repairs.
- Set daily tasks and complete them systematically.
- Take courses in anger and procrastination management.
- Get involved in food preparation and cooking.
The power of conscious action
Acting impulsively out of frustration can lead to destruction, while mindful, purposeful action fosters harmony. At times, we may begin to develop shame around our past actions. Practising mindfulness feeds conscious actions. The power of conscious action helps us always remember, with compassion, we do the best we can, with what we understand at any current time. To support compassion let’s explore the heart chakra and Venus.
Venus in Taurus reveals that love is expressed through touch and a deep connection with nature. Physical affection and stability in relationships are of utmost importance. Love, in this sign, is intertwined with security, strong sensuality and a need for lasting bonds.
Venus in Libra expresses love through beauty, harmony and diplomacy. Relationships are approached with grace, fairness and a desire for balance. Romantic gestures and aesthetic appreciation are central to love under this placement. Reciprocity is important along with healthy boundaries.
Venus in Gemini, love thrives through intellectual stimulation. Love is often gregarious. These individuals express affection by engaging in lively conversations, sharing ideas and embracing variety in relationships. Communication is a special ingredient for love.
Venus in Cancer expresses love through care, emotional security and nurturing. People with this placement often have a protective nature and they seek deep emotional bonds. They may be very emotionally needy. A defining trait can be a physically attractive upper chest area, symbolising the nurturing nature of this placement.
Venus in Leo, they love grand gestures, admiration and passion in relationships. Love is expressed with flair, confidence and a desire to express creativity through their love. There is a deep need to share affection in an extravagant way. They are protective over their love interests.
Venus in Virgo shows love through thoughtful gestures, attention to detail and acts of service. However, this placement can sometimes lead to overanalysing relationships. Overthinking can hinder open expression of love. Following a healthy lifestyle supports the romantic life.
Venus in Scorpio is intensely passionate and seeks profound, transformative connections. There is an element of mystery, emotional depth and heightened sexual energy. Trust issues can sometimes arise. Nonetheless the emotional investment always feels more intensified.
Venus in Sagittarius, expresses love with a sense of adventure, optimism and enthusiasm. Relationships need generosity, exploration and a sense of playfulness to thrive. Their love is always expansive and they seek to share experiences with whomever they love.
Venus in Capricorn expresses love in a practical and responsible manner. Long-term security and planning are important in relationships, though this approach can sometimes feel restrictive or overly cautious. To win a romantic heart here, love poems are not an ace card. The trump card is proving you are trustworthy.
Venus in Aquarius, love is expressed through unconventional, trusting and intellectual ways. There is a strong desire for companionship combined with a need for personal space and independence. The expression of love is often a way to explore one’s deeper psyche.
Venus in Pisces embodies dreamy, empathetic and romantic energy. Love is expressed in an intuitive, almost ethereal way and individuals with this placement often seek soul-level connections. Love is often more gentle, generous and gracious.
Venus in Aries, love is action-oriented, with expressions of affection through physical gestures and a direct approach. The saying ‘actions speak louder than words’ resonates deeply with this placement. When declaring their feelings, they may not score high in romantic speech but their actions loudly reveal their romantic feelings.
The middle link
To sum up:
Integration of security (root chakra) + creative self-expression (sacral chakra) + personal empowerment (solar plexus chakra) = compassionate love (heart chakra).
To heal our grief is to heal the heart
Grief is an emotion that is deeply etched into the heart chakra. When we begin to heal our grief, we heal the heart chakra. As we heal the heart chakra, we may feel residue grief needing to be expressed and released.
The heart feels deeply and is always to be treasured. Begin with self-love and respect your boundaries, when healing from any trauma.
Stability with trust + reciprocity in relationships with health boundaries = fertile ground for love in the heart to bloom.
Supporting the heart chakra
To enhance and maintain a balanced heart chakra:
- Wear moonstone or rose quartz as a pendant, allowing the stone to rest near the heart.
- Heart to heart hugs
- Engage in moments of mindfulness and meditation, tuning in to your heart energy.
- Daily say out loving kind affirmations to yourself.
- Allow yourself to cry when needed, releasing pent-up emotions.
To nurture Venusian energy, incorporate the following into your routine:
- Walk and smell fresh flowers.
- Use aromatherapy oils.
- Enjoy massages and self-care rituals that promote relaxation.
- Dance to your favourite music, embracing movement.
- Practice yin Yoga.
- Cultivate social connections with friendly and supportive people.
- Engage in creative activities like playing a musical instrument.
All is interconnected
While this this article series is focused on the connection between one chakra and one planet, it leads to a larger realisation: Everything is interconnected. Our internal energy centres influence and are influenced by our interactions, relationships and life experiences. By understanding these links, we become more conscious with deeper compassion and healing.
By
Anastacia Sampson
D.N. Med. BA(Hons) Psych
