Mars

The planet of action, desire, aggression, energy, and courage. Mars governs how you assert yourself, fight for what you want, express anger, and pursue goals. It rules both Aries (initiative and combat) and traditionally Scorpio (strategic intensity), is exalted in Capricorn, in detriment in Taurus and Libra, and in fall in Cancer. Mars's orbital period is roughly two years, and it retrogrades approximately every two years for about two months — periods that can sap physical energy and frustrate direct action. In a natal chart, Mars by sign and house shows where you are driven, competitive, and willing to take risks. In esoteric astrology, Mars represents the desire nature and the will to act. Correspondences: iron, Tuesday, the muscles and blood, the color red, and The Tower card in the Major Arcana.