Mars Retrograde

Mars Retrograde in Leo and Cancer: What to Expect and How Each Zodiac Sign Might Feel the Heat!

Hey there, cosmic explorers! 🌌 Have you heard the buzz? Mars, our fiery, action-packed planet of drive and ambition, is going retrograde soon—and it’s about to stir things up in not one, but two zodiac signs: Leo and Cancer. Buckle up, because this cosmic event is all about reflection, recalibration, and maybe a little retroactive drama! If you've been feeling a bit restless or agitated lately, it's probably Mars gearing up for its moonwalk. Let’s dive into what this retrograde could mean and how each zodiac sign might feel it.

When is Mars Retrograde in Leo and Cancer?

Mars will go retrograde from Friday, Dec. 6, 2024 to Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025. Mars will retrograde through two signs

• Leo from Dec. 6, 2024 to Jan. 6, 2025
• Cancer from Jan. 6, 2025 to Feb. 23, 2025

Mars typically goes retrograde about every two years, and each retrograde period tends to last around 10 weeks. But this year, with Mars splitting its backspin between Leo and Cancer, we’re getting two very distinct flavors of retro energy. Leo and Cancer are both intense in their own ways, so let’s take a closer look at how Mars will act in each.

Mars Retrograde in Leo (December 6, 2024 – January 6, 2025)

When Mars retrogrades through Leo, a fire sign known for its boldness, creativity, and flair, we may feel our usual confidence and drive take a slight dip. Leo energy normally encourages self-expression, drama, and pursuing passions with pride. But Mars retrograde here will turn down the heat, giving us a month-long chance to reflect on how we show up in the world. Instead of acting immediately on impulses, Mars’ retrograde invites us to pause, review, and consider if the way we’re moving forward truly aligns with our authentic selves.

In Leo, this retrograde could bring challenges to areas where pride, self-expression, or personal power are at play. Ego clashes might surface more easily, and we might feel more sensitive to criticism. But it’s also a great time to re-evaluate how we express ourselves and make sure we’re shining in ways that genuinely reflect who we are.

Mars Retrograde in Cancer (January 6 – February 23, 2025)

Once Mars moves backward through Cancer, the focus shifts from outer expression to inner reflection. Cancer is a water sign ruled by the Moon, tied deeply to our emotions, intuition, and home life. Mars in Cancer isn’t a natural pairing—Mars wants action, while Cancer craves security and comfort. During this phase, we might feel emotionally charged or more easily triggered by situations connected to our past or family.

This is a time to tend to our emotional and familial needs, and reflect on any lingering issues in these areas. Emotions that have been buried could come up for resolution, making it a time for healing and setting boundaries that honor our well-being. Mars retrograde in Cancer is a gentle nudge to rethink how we protect ourselves, nurture our emotional life, and where we might need to let go of old wounds.

How Each Zodiac Sign Might Feel Mars Retrograde in Leo and Cancer

Each sign will feel the retrogrades effects differently, depending on where Leo and Cancer fall in their chart. Here’s what to expect for each zodiac sign:

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

• Leo Phase: You may feel frustrated creatively, Aries, as Mars retrograde in Leo could put a damper on your usual boldness and drive. You might feel less eager to take center stage and more inclined to review your creative pursuits.
• Cancer Phase: Family or home matters could take up your energy. Old emotional issues may need addressing, and it’s a great time to reflect on what home and comfort mean to you.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

• Leo Phase: Mars retrograde in Leo brings family matters into focus, particularly where pride or ego may be causing tension. Don’t rush home improvements; use this time to get everything in order.
• Cancer Phase: Miscommunications with siblings, close friends, or in day-to-day tasks might arise. You may need to go over details twice and stay open to talking things out calmly.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

• Leo Phase: Mars retrograde in Leo might bring challenges in how you express yourself. Avoid jumping to conclusions, as miscommunications could be more common.
• Cancer Phase: Financial matters and budgeting come into focus. Take a closer look at your spending habits and consider setting more secure boundaries around your resources.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

• Leo Phase: This retrograde in Leo might prompt a dip in self-confidence, Cancer. Use it to re-evaluate what truly makes you feel valued, without relying too much on external approval.
• Cancer Phase: With Mars retrograde in your own sign, you’ll feel this deeply. Emotions could bubble up, and you might feel less driven to take action. Give yourself time for introspection, and don’t rush decisions.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

• Leo Phase: Mars retrograde in your sign is big, Leo! You might feel like your usual sparkle is dulled, or experience challenges in self-expression. Reconsider how you show up and focus on aligning your actions with your true self.
• Cancer Phase: Old fears or insecurities may arise, particularly related to the past. Let yourself process these emotions and focus on healing rather than putting up a brave front.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

• Leo Phase: Mars retrograde in Leo can bring burnout if you’re not careful, Virgo. Prioritize rest, and don’t take on too many projects at once.
• Cancer Phase: Social circles or friendships may feel strained. Use this time to assess your support network and focus on quality connections over quantity.

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

• Leo Phase: Friendships and social life may feel “off” during Mars retrograde in Leo. People around you may act differently than usual, so give others grace and avoid jumping to conclusions.
• Cancer Phase: Career challenges may arise, making you question long-term goals. This is a time to reflect on your path without rushing decisions.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

• Leo Phase: Career ambitions may feel stunted or unclear. You’re usually intensely driven, but it’s okay to slow down and reassess your goals.
• Cancer Phase: Old belief systems or ideas may come up for reconsideration. Take time to dive into topics that interest you, and let curiosity guide you.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

• Leo Phase: Adventures or studies might feel blocked. Mars retrograde in Leo could make long-term plans feel stalled, but don’t worry—it’s just temporary.
• Cancer Phase: Shared resources and financial planning need attention. If you’ve been avoiding budgeting or financial conversations, now’s the time to address them.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

• Leo Phase: Mars retrograde in Leo may bring up issues in close relationships, especially where ego clashes exist. Use this time to clarify what you both want.
• Cancer Phase: Partnerships, both personal and professional, might need reassessment. Old dynamics could resurface, and you may find yourself renegotiating terms or boundaries.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

• Leo Phase: You may feel a bit disconnected from your partner or close friends, Aquarius. Use this retrograde to review how you show up in relationships.
• Cancer Phase: Health and daily routines are in focus, and it’s an ideal time to assess your self-care practices. Pay attention to both physical and emotional wellness.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

• Leo Phase: Creative blocks could arise during this retrograde, Pisces. Don’t force it; let ideas come to you gradually.
• Cancer Phase: Your creative and romantic life may feel the impact. Old emotional wounds could resurface, offering a chance to address and heal them.

 

Overall Energies

Mars retrograde through Leo and Cancer will be a time for us all to slow down and reflect. If you feel more introspective, frustrated, or like your usual spark is dimmed, remember that Mars’ retrograde is guiding you to take a step back and evaluate. This cosmic pause can help you clarify where you’re going and how you want to get there.

Stay tuned into your feelings, be gentle with yourself, and remember that this time is all about recalibration. Use the energy to dig deep, heal, and emerge stronger.