Dream-fueled action
Here’s what to do and not do when you have a Neptune Sextile Mars transit. Below that are some interesting things about this transit.
Avoid During This Transit
- Don’t start big projects without a clear plan – Neptune can make things a little foggy.
- Avoid confrontation or acting on anger, since your emotions might be confusing or unclear.
- Don’t trust people blindly with your time, effort, or money – it’s easier to be deceived now.
- Try not to overcommit or promise more than you can realistically deliver.
- Steer clear of risky physical activities or sports that need sharp focus – accidents can happen if you’re spaced out.
- Avoid using drugs or alcohol to boost energy or creativity – it can backfire big-time under Neptune.
- Don’t rush into sexual relationships or situations without getting to know intentions clearly.
- Avoid getting swept up in fantasies about what you “could” achieve – keep one foot on the ground.
- Don’t take shortcuts or try to “escape” from responsibilities; it’s better to deal with things directly.
- Try not to rely too much on others for motivation; find your own steady drive instead.
Do During This Transit
- Start a creative project, especially if it involves art, music, or movement- your imagination’s got some extra spark right now.
- Try out a new workout or dance class- your energy and intuition are working really well together.
- Volunteer for a cause you care about- your compassion and motivation are both high, so you’ll actually want to put in the effort.
- Start a meditation or yoga routine- it’ll help you get in touch with yourself and channel all that inspired energy in a positive way.
- Go after a goal that needs both inspiration and action- like launching an idea you’ve been dreaming about, or making progress on a passion project.
- Work on resolving conflicts gently- you’re more understanding now, and can find peaceful solutions without losing your drive.
- Spend time by water or out in nature- it’ll refresh you, give you new ideas, and help you connect with your inner self.
- Trust your gut feelings- your instincts are stronger, especially when it comes to knowing which direction to move in.
- Do something to help someone else, even in a small way- it’ll feel extra rewarding and meaningful right now.
What’s Interesting About This Transit
- Mystical attraction to movement: According to C.E.O. Carter in The Astrological Aspects (1930), Neptune in harmonious aspect to Mars can stimulate “a proclivity for fluid, dance-like movements, so that the native may excel in feats requiring rhythm and subtlety as much as muscular power,” tying this transit to dance, martial arts, or swimming done not for glory but for the sheer beauty of movement.
- Inspiration for idealistic crusades: Charles E.O. Carter also notes that Neptune-Mars contacts can bring “a touch of the crusader- engagement in pursuits where some high and perhaps unattainable end is sought, often through sacrifice or unusual means.”
- Unconscious healing energy: In Alan Leo’s The Key to Your Own Nativity (1913), Mars-Neptune contacts in harmonious aspect are said to lend “the power of subtle healing, the magnetism that aids the sick or distressed without conscious effort.”
- Courage through surrender: In Astrological Aspects- A Process-Oriented Approach (mid-20th c.), Dane Rudhyar writes that a Mars-Neptune sextile “may manifest as unusual courage- not the brash assertion of self, but the willingness to let go and risk all for an ideal or dream.”
- Athletic feats through trance or altered states: Margaret E. Hone in The Modern Text-Book of Astrology (1951) notes that with Neptune sextile Mars, “athletic or acrobatic ability gets a peculiar boost from the imagination, so that the native might perform best when half lost in reverie or trance.”
- Channeling competitive instincts into artistic works: From Ivy M. Goldstein-Jacobson’s notes (unpublished, c. 1960s), this aspect might point to “competitive artistry or the drive to create: sculptors who attack their medium or musicians who pour energy into improvisation.”
- Water as a source of strength: Sepharial, in The Manual of Astrology (1898), remarks that such an aspect “sometimes makes water a native’s friend: physical vigor returns while at sea, or one fights illness best at the seaside.”
- Protection against hidden aggression: C.E.O. Carter again suggests in his writings that Neptune favorably aspecting Mars “tends to thwart underhanded attacks, as if the person were guided away from danger without quite knowing how.”
- Impulse toward spiritual sportsmanship: According to Paul Clancy’s Astrology and You (1939), this transit “opens the door for honest competition where victory is secondary to the experience of the sport itself.”
Experiencing This Transit
When Neptune forms a sextile with your natal Mars, it’s like you suddenly feel inspired to take action, but in a softer, more creative way than normal. You could get bursts of energy at unexpected times, but instead of raw aggression, it’ll feel more like being fueled by dreams, ideals, or even spiritual goals. This is a time when you might feel driven to fight for causes, help others, or channel your energy into art, music, dance, or even meditation.
Challenges during this transit
- Direction Can Get Fuzzy: You might feel motivated but not always know where to point your energy. Like, you want to do something helpful or meaningful, but can’t decide what exactly. It’s easy to get lost daydreaming instead of doing.
- Escaping Problems: There’s a risk of avoiding real problems. Instead of facing things head-on, you might want to run away into movies, music, or just wishful thinking.
- Too Nice for Your Own Good: Since Neptune adds lots of compassion, you might rush to help others, even when it’s not good for you. You could get pulled into situations where people take advantage of your energy or goodwill.
- Scattered Energy: Mars likes to get things done, but Neptune spreads it out. You might start a bunch of things and finish none, or put effort into dreams that never really go anywhere.
Opportunities during this transit
- Creative Drive: This is a perfect time for getting into painting, music, dance, or any kind of creative hobby. You can channel Mars’ energy into Neptune’s world of imagination and end up making something truly unique.
- Compassion in Action: It’s easier to act on compassion- volunteer, help someone going through a tough time, or stand up for causes you believe in. Small gestures of kindness can feel more natural and powerful now.
- Spiritual Motivation: If you’re into meditation, yoga, or any spiritual practice, you’ll probably feel more motivated to dive in, stick with it, and actually see some progress.
- Subtle Influence: This transit helps you get things done without being pushy. You can persuade people or lead them quietly, sorta like being the “gentle hero” who gets the job done behind the scenes.
- Healing Powers: Your energy can be super helpful to others now, especially if you work in healthcare, counseling, or anything healing. Even just being a good friend counts.
How the Sign of Transiting Neptune Modifies This Transit Sextile to Natal Mars
Read the one for the current sign of transiting Neptune.
- Transiting Neptune in Aries: You’ll feel fired up about chasing your dreams, and your instincts for bold action are pretty spot-on right now. You’ve got more courage to go for what you want- just make sure you’re not totally ignoring reality.
- Transiting Neptune in Taurus: You might find practical ways to turn your creative ideas into something real. Slow, steady, and peaceful effort works best- artistic or money-making goals especially benefit from patience.
- Transiting Neptune in Gemini: Communication gets inspired, and you’re motivated to express your ideals or fight for a cause using your words. You might brainstorm creative solutions or get into writing, music, or art.
- Transiting Neptune in Cancer: Emotions drive you more than usual. You’ll want to help people and put your energy into home or family projects. Actions are softer, more caring, and motivated by compassion.
- Transiting Neptune in Leo: You’re drawn to show off your talents and might get a creative or theatrical surge. It’s a great time to pour energy into anything artistic or to take the stage with confidence and a touch of glamour.
- Transiting Neptune in Virgo: You can put your dreams into practice and get things organized to make something magical actually happen. It feels good to help others in little, practical ways, and work routines can get a gentle, creative twist.
- Transiting Neptune in Libra: You’ll want to cooperate and maybe help others achieve their goals too. All kinds of partnerships (romantic, business, or friendships) get a peaceful, harmonious vibe. You’re extra motivated to create beauty or fairness.
- Transiting Neptune in Scorpio: You’ll have powerful hunches about what moves to make. Motivation comes from deep feelings- which can lead to passionate new beginnings, healing, or dealing with tough stuff from your past.
- Transiting Neptune in Sagittarius: You’re seeking adventure and higher meaning. This is a great time to travel, learn, or connect with people from different cultures. Big dreams feel possible, and you’re open-minded and ready for inspiration.
- Transiting Neptune in Capricorn: You can combine inspiration with ambition, and practical steps take you closer to your goals. Career dreams feel more reachable, and you’re motivated to give your reputation a softer, more caring edge.
- Transiting Neptune in Aquarius: You’ll be inspired by groups or causes, and working together with others feels extra rewarding. Your ideas about the future motivate your actions- think creative collaborations or humanitarian efforts.
- Transiting Neptune in Pisces: Your intuition is super strong, and you’re motivated by compassion- maybe you’ll want to help people or get creative in a spiritual way. Go with the flow; dreams and actions line up almost magically.