I love talking about Ares, but I wanted to add some things a person can do to worship him other than working out or picking up a hobby that requires physical activity. Those things are epic! I don't hate at all, but some of those things aren't feasible for some. Here are a few things he's taught me; they'll help some of you.
Admit your fears to him or yourself. They could range from 'fear of talking to cashiers' to' I'm afraid in life when things go too well.' He has mastery over fear and panic; they are his 'children.' Writing and offering these to him can be an activity for you both. Do things that you're scared of, within reason. Order food yourself, talk to new people, try a new amusement park ride, etc. (You can also ask his help in facing these fears)
Face whatever you've been avoiding inwardly. He's revealed some grueling truths to me, but it's been for the best. People sometimes underestimate how tough emotional healing can be; it's hard work. He is fantastic at delivering truth and offering strength and aid when we do such things. He isn't judgmental; I know he has a fearsome reputation, and Im not detracting from it. He's not just the stormer of cities; he also wields the shield and will shelter you under it. Im learning to ask for help, I'm learning how to do a myriad of things, and he's been patient and present in his own way; it's beautiful.
Read his myths from various cultures. I saw someone here discussing research on deities from other cultures' perspectives, but here, you can try to go back further than the Hellenic era of Greece! Ares has ties as a protector of land or one who gives abundance! (not just the feasted on by women, which is dope as shit) He's technically older than most think! (The earliest attested form of the name is the Mycenaean Greek 𐀀𐀩, a-re, written in the Linear B syllabic script.) This is a fun way to connect with any deity, especially Ares. I was filled with passion and excitement when I read through his history!
You can learn about your anger. This may seem obvious, but thinking about your relationship with your anger can lead you down some helpful pathways. You may be quick to anger, but you may not get angry enough. Your anger may hide pain or grief; you may hurt yourself or the ones you love with your temper. Or, you may be suffering under someone else's anger; freeing yourself from it may improve your life. Try to unlearn unhealthy views instilled in you about anger, understand how it can actually help you, and understand it's not the only emotion you can draw upon. Ares is hardly who popular media portrays him as; he's not this angry dumb brute. Ares is incredibly wise and creative in drawing these feelings from you; never be afraid to ask him. (Im still learning how to ask him, lol.)
Learn how to take care of yourself. Shockingly, your deities want you to be well before considering dedicating time to them. (not shocking at all) Ares has forced me on my ass, I suspect, when I was being stubborn in regards to my own health. He's patient, but dedicating self-care and love to him is honorable and would please him. This could range from working out, eating better, getting out of bed, cleaning your room, showering, or just not doing a single task for a day to give yourself a break. This also ties into learning how to manage workloads; you should break before you crash and burn out!
Setting boundaries and sticking to them. I'll lump this in with sticking up for yourself for a moment. Setting boundaries can be challenging for anyone, but Ares will not only remind you that you're worthy of being treated well, he'll encourage you. It's hard work; sometimes you take steps forward and backward, but he'll help you SO MUCH. He made it so easy for me, Im still unsure how he did, but I speak my mind without anxiety so much more.
Stick up for yourself and others, and cut out people who treat you poorly. Analyze the relationships in your life; he'll naturally bring attention to those not serving to bring good into your life. Raise the standards on how you wish to be treated, and hold yourself and others accountable for behaviors.
People say 'research war,' and that's important, but you can also research Greek warfare on YouTube! Hoplite warfare is attributed to him and others; take some time to research formations, ranks, tools, and such. I also liked researching how Ares was viewed in various Polis (ex, Thrace, Sparta, Attica, etc.) You can research warfare tactics if you want to nerd out; I like to sit down and watch weaponry forging (this would work for Hephaistos, too). Spears, shields, and certain swords are symbolic to him.
Read his hymns. His hymns are some of my favorites and are beautiful to me. Contrary to popular belief, embodying strength is about having peace within yourself. Ares knows this; he is wise and understands the human struggle well. Learning his epithets is also an excellent way to go about who you wish to call upon at a particular time. I don't do this, but I still love knowing things about him.
Create jewelry for him and wear it/ draw his symbol on things. Something as simple as this works wonders, I promise. It can be super simple as long as it means something to you. Carrying a physical reminder of him on your person is a lovely way to honor him. Drawing his symbol on certain things to 'bless' also works.
Be there for those you love. Supporting others when you have the capability is essential; loving fiercely is a way to honor Ares, believe it or not. Offering sound advice, being a solid shoulder to cry on, or simply showing up for people you love is really important to Ares as he is a staunch supporter of LOVE in general and comradery. Understanding how to support without overreaching is vital, too, and he can help you with this.
Educate yourself and be a voice. Educate yourself on genocide and war and their realities. Research how to help in what ways you can; these things honor who he is as a God. Stand firm in what's right; don't let someone silence you. These things aren't always possible if you're in a precarious home situation, and that's valid as well!
Do things that make you feel passionate. Did you know ancient Greek Hoplites used a dance to train for war? The Pyrrhichios or Pyrrhike dance was the best-known war dance of the Greeks. It was probably of Dorian origin and practiced at first solely as a training for war. I say this to convey that dancing and moving can be dedicated to Ares, too! (he's also been depicted in a myth as removing his armor and dancing at a wedding; he knows how to be jovial, too!) Whether you practice martial arts or like to move around, do that for him. Pick up new things you enjoy, spark passion within yourself, and revel in it! (Be safe and smart, and don't engage in high-risk activities unless you have proper training and supervision!)
I can only think of this for now, but it's a great beginning! You can work out, pick up weapons training, pick up a contact sport, do martial arts, etc. I also know that there's more he helps with than many people assume; he's an incredible God, and I could gush about how warm his energy is all day. Ares's energy has gotten me through a lot! He deserves all the love and praise! Khaire Ares! Swift and violent, he who fights under the shield's guard!
