Mars stations retrograde in Leo on December 6th at exactly 5:33 pm CST and will continue this motion until February 23rd, 2025. This retrograde cycle will have two distinct sections. First, Mars is retrograde in Leo from December 6th until January 6th, and second, when Mars is retrograde in Cancer, which occurs between January 6th and February 23rd. Ultimately, this will be a challenging time as we face our past decisions, self-perceptions, and earlier emotional responses.
While Mars is retrograde in Leo, ego or pride issues may be our greatest focus. Achieving a consistent level of self-perception can be challenging, leading us to often overestimate or underestimate ourselves. This period invites us to be more truthful about how our choices align with our self-image, encouraging us to ensure they genuinely represent who we are.
We may also need to re-recognize our true talents and skills. It’s possible that if we are able to be honest, we may use this time to reacquaint ourselves with what we are truly capable of. However, we will also be presented with past moments when we did not assess ourselves correctly, and we will have to handle these instances with grace and self-honesty.
This will all shift around January 6th when Mars retrogrades back into Cancer. Emotions become more of an issue for us as we reflect on how well we’ve cared for loved ones and if we are truly protective of those we hold dear. We will also have to be honest about whether we are using our emotions wisely or letting them torment us.
Guilt and remorse may easily turn into irritation and anger during this second half if we don’t begin to honor our feelings in how we choose to act. We must also avoid dragging others into our emotional turmoil or turning them into a convenient scapegoat. Let’s try to avoid brooding and instead choose growth and gentleness.
Over the next three months, what we’ve put into the world will return to us. It’s time for us to reflect deeply on our actions, anger, and how we wield our energy. Let’s use this cycle to recalibrate and come back better versions of ourselves.
IMPORTANT DATES
Wednesday December 11
Venus opposes Mars Rx, forcing us to face where we may have been too presumptuous or arrogant with others. Try to be more direct or reliable.
Thursday January 2
Mars Rx opposes Pluto, pushing us to see where we need to prioritize the needs of others and uniting around a shared purpose over our wants and egos.
Monday January 6
Mars Rx re-enters Cancer. We may be confronted with our previous emotional reactions or lack of care for others. Rework how you handle what you’re most sensitive about.
Sunday January 12
Mars Rx connects pleasantly with Neptune. Focus on embracing your feelings and allowing them to lead you to a more enlightened or compassionate space.
Wednesday January 15
The Sun opposes Mars Rx forcing us to face where we need to let go of our own goals and ambitions and instead focus on encouraging and helping those we care most about.
Thursday January 23
Mars Rx connects with Uranus. Being more aware of our emotions will help us discover different ways to feel grounded or incorporate comfort into our lives.
Thursday January 23
Mercury opposes Mars Rx, forcing us to face where we need to be less pessimistic or rigid and instead try taking a less direct route.
Saturday January 25
Venus connects pleasantly with Mars Rx. Focus on being compassionate and affectionate towards others, especially if you fell short in the past.
Monday February 3
Mars Rx squares off with Chiron. Avoid reacting out of guilt or shame. Instead, approach matters directly and confidently.
Saturday February 8
Mars Rx connects pleasantly with Saturn. Focus on handling your emotions wisely and using them to better care for others with compassion or selflessness.
Sunday February 23
Mercury connects pleasantly with Mars Rx. Concentrate on using your instincts to guide your reactions and refresh your thought process around caring for others.
Sunday February 23
Mars stations direct in Cancer. We can now begin applying what we’ve learned about our actions and their repercussions. Integrate what you’ve learned and go forward with a better version of yourself.
Thursday April 17
Mars re-enters Leo. For the next two months, pursue your goals with optimism, actively display your talents, and chase what excites you.