Oh my, how the days drag on, slower than molasses, during a cold winter morning. Just when a surge of energy inspires you to take action, the frigid weather quickly causes your motivation to be overtaken by apathy, imposter syndrome, perhaps some whispering in your head: it’s not good enough, and frustration so intense that even scream therapy feels like an inadequate antidote. Does the scenario sound familiar?

For the past month, life has felt like watching paint dry, thanks to Mars—the planet of action, aggression, and drive—being retrograde in Leo since December 6, 2024. Typically, Mars propels us forward, igniting our passions and pushing us to tackle our goals. But during retrograde, that fire dwindles to a flicker, and time seems to stretch unnervingly thin.

Mars is wrapping up its retrograde in Leo and transitioning into Cancer, a deeply emotional and intuitive water sign, on January 6, 2025. This shift marks the next chapter of Mars retrograde, which will continue through February 23, 2025. While the bold and fiery Leo energy gave us dramatic stops and starts, Cancer brings its emotional undertow, requiring us to navigate choppy waters carefully and reflect.

Mars retrograde is a time of introspection, calling us to reevaluate energy, conflict, ambition, frustration, and action themes. In Cancer, the cardinal water sign ruled by the moon, these themes become emotionally charged. Cancer’s nurturing, protective nature can turn defensive under stress, and even minor setbacks might trigger strong reactions during this transit. Old wounds could resurface, emotions may bubble over, and you might feel like you’re navigating an emotional minefield.

This retrograde invites us to consider how we process and express our feelings. Are you reacting impulsively or taking the time to respond thoughtfully? Mars in Cancer encourages finding comfort in small rituals, revisiting your roots, and prioritizing emotional safety. It’s a period for self-reflection and learning to balance the heart’s needs with rational action.

Family dynamics are especially likely to take center stage. Arguments or unresolved issues might crop up, even after the holiday season’s emotional rollercoaster. Cancer’s mantra, “I feel,” asks us to tune into our emotions and understand how they shape our choices and relationships. This is an opportunity to redefine comfort and create nurturing spaces, both internally and externally.

Mars retrograde in Cancer doesn’t happen in isolation; Saturn in Pisces offers a steadying hand. Saturn’s grounding influence reminds us to approach challenges with patience and responsibility. Early and late in this transit, Saturn will make harmonious aspects to Mars, softening the retrograde’s intensity and encouraging a practical, measured approach.

Additionally, as other planets move through Pisces (particularly Venus), there’s a collective nudge toward dreaming and imagining rather than doing. If frustration arises because progress feels slow or obstacles seem insurmountable, let yourself daydream. Visualization can become a powerful tool, clarifying what you truly desire once Mars stations direct.

History often repeats itself during retrogrades, and Mars’s retrograde in Cancer might echo themes from May 2023, or earlier cycles in late 1992 to early 1993, and November 2007 to January 2008. Reflect on what unfolded during those times—especially regarding emotional growth, family, or security—and consider how those lessons might inform your current path.

This is not a time for rushing ahead. Instead, lean into restorative activities that soothe your soul—journaling, decluttering your space, reconnecting with loved ones, or simply binge-watching your favorite comfort show. Remember, anything you initiate now will take time to mature, but the groundwork you lay during this period will pay off in the long run.

Read your rising sign for the most accurate forecast of what is to come!

Aries

Mars retrograde moves through your fourth house, shining a light on your private life, family dynamics, and emotional foundations. Long-standing tensions within your family may resurface, or you might feel triggered by unresolved memories from your past. This is an excellent time to reflect on how your home environment supports your emotional needs. Are there lingering wounds from childhood that need healing? Consider how you can create a space—physically and emotionally—that nurtures your growth and well-being. Be gentle with yourself as you process these more profound emotions.

Taurus

Mars retrograde in your third house might bring communication challenges and misunderstandings, particularly with siblings, neighbors, or close-knit community members. You could feel like your words aren’t landing as intended, or perhaps an old argument will resurface. This transit invites you to rethink how you express yourself. Are you communicating your emotions effectively? Journaling or practicing mindful speech could be helpful now. Reflect on how your thoughts and language shape your connections, and how you can strengthen those bonds through clarity and compassion.

Gemini

Mars retrograding through your second house focuses on finances, personal values, and self-worth. You may experience income delays, unexpected expenses, or a general sense of insecurity about your material resources. This period encourages you to reassess your relationship with money. Are your spending habits aligning with your long-term goals? Beyond finances, this is a powerful time to reflect on what makes you feel secure and valuable. Building a stronger self-worth will establish lasting emotional and material stability.

Cancer

With Mars retrograde in your first house, you might feel like you’re running on empty. Your usual drive and confidence could feel elusive, leaving you questioning your identity. This transit asks you to slow down and reflect on how your emotions shape your self-image. Are you true to yourself, or do others’ opinions overly influence you? Use this time to reconnect with your emotional core. Nurture yourself physically and emotionally, and remember that it’s okay to take a step back to recalibrate.

Leo

Mars retrograde in your twelfth house turns your focus inward, highlighting hidden fears, subconscious patterns, and the need for spiritual renewal. You may feel drawn to solitude or notice unresolved emotional baggage surfacing. This is a powerful time for shadow work, therapy, or practices that help you process what’s hidden beneath the surface. Reflect on how past experiences have shaped your current emotional state and explore ways to release what no longer serves you. Trust that this introspection will lead to profound healing and growth.

Virgo

Mars retrograde in your eleventh house might create tension in your friendships or within group dynamics. Collaborative projects face delays, or you may question your sense of belonging in certain social circles. This transit invites you to reflect on how your emotional needs align with your aspirations and the people you surround yourself with. Are your friendships supportive and uplifting? If not, this is a chance to reevaluate your social connections and focus on building relationships that honor your emotional authenticity.

Libra

In your tenth house, Mars retrograde could bring frustrations or setbacks in your career or public life. You may feel like your efforts aren’t being recognized, or you might question whether your professional path aligns with your emotional fulfillment. Use this time to reassess your ambitions. Are you pursuing a career that truly resonates with your values, or are you chasing external validation? Focus on long-term goals and avoid making impulsive decisions. This pause offers a chance to realign your professional trajectory with your heart’s desires.

Scorpio

Mars retrograde in your ninth house might leave you feeling uninspired or questioning your beliefs. Travel plans or educational pursuits could face delays, pushing you to reevaluate your broader life philosophy. This is an opportunity to reconnect with your sense of purpose and ask yourself whether your current path aligns with your emotional truth. Journaling, reading, or exploring new perspectives can help reignite your passion for growth and discovery.

Sagittarius

In the eighth house, Mars retrograde brings deep emotional introspection. Intimacy, trust, shared resources, and personal transformation take center stage. Old wounds around vulnerability or power dynamics may resurface, encouraging you to confront what’s been buried. Reflect on emotional security and how you can build stronger foundations in your closest relationships. This is also a powerful time for emotional and financial healing—allow yourself to release what no longer serves you.

Capricorn

Mars retrograde in your seventh house spotlights your partnerships. Unresolved tensions or conflicts in your relationships might bubble up, requiring honest conversations and emotional vulnerability. Are you asserting your needs effectively, or have you been overly reactive? Use this time to evaluate the balance of give-and-take in your connections. Strengthen your boundaries and work toward creating harmonious and emotionally fulfilling relationships.

Aquarius

This transit in your sixth house might disrupt your daily routines or work life, leading to overwhelming feelings. You could notice how emotional stress is impacting your physical health. This retrograde encourages you to reflect on how you balance productivity with rest. Are you taking care of your emotional well-being or burning yourself out? Focus on creating sustainable habits that support both your mental and physical health.

Pisces

Mars retrograde in your fifth house might dampen your enthusiasm for creative projects, romance, or hobbies. Old flames or unfinished artistic pursuits could resurface, offering a chance for closure or renewal. Reflect on what brings you genuine joy and how you can reconnect with your creative spark. Are fear and burnout holding you back? Use this time to explore your passions with patience and compassion for yourself.