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Mars Retrograde: Moving from Leo Back into Cancer

As Mars shifts into retrograde, moving from bold Leo back into the nurturing waters of Cancer, we enter a time where our actions may feel misaligned, delayed, or frustrating. The fiery energy of Mars that usually drives us to take bold actions will be tempered during this period, causing a sense of inner tension and external missteps. Look at the Leo and Cancer area of your chart where Mars will move back an forth. Scorpio and Aries placements, particularly rising signs, are likely to feel the brunt of this retrogrades intensity. You might experience challenges in asserting your will, as the planet that governs motivation, assertiveness, and drive appears to slow down.

Action Delays and Frustration

Mars retrograde is notorious for turning straightforward endeavors into drawn-out struggles. Tasks you once approached with vigor may now feel cumbersome, as if something is blocking your path. For Aries and Scorpio risings and sun signs, the normally sharp edge of Mars may feel blunted. You may be motivated to accomplish big goals, but every step forward seems to result in two steps back. It’s crucial during this period to practice patience and mindfulness—pushing harder against the resistance will only result in more frustration.

The Mirror of the Inner World

This transit asks us to turn inward, reflecting on the alignment of our inner desires with our outer actions. Our outer world is often a mirror of our inner state, and when Mars is retrograde, any inner turmoil or unresolved tension will likely manifest outwardly. This can lead to conflicts with others or even self-sabotage if we aren’t careful.

Mars is a planet that governs our health, particularly when it comes to inflammation, fevers, and stress responses. During this time, it’s important to take extra care of your physical well-being. Inner agitation can manifest as illness if we’re not mindful of how we are managing our stress. Slow down, tune into your body, and give yourself space to process what’s truly driving your desires.

Delayed Manifestations and Health Warnings

One of the major themes of Mars retrograde is the delay of progress. You may feel an overwhelming desire to act, to chase a goal, or to take bold steps—but the timing is off. While this may feel frustrating, the universe is asking us to pause and consider: Is this really what I want? Rushing forward during this period often results in less-than-ideal outcomes or a need to revisit unfinished business later.

On a more practical note, Mars retrograde is not the ideal time for elective surgeries. Mars rules over sharp objects, blood, and the body’s healing processes, and a retrograde period could slow down recovery. Speaking from personal experience, I had surgery during a Mars retrograde shadow period, and it led to a slow recovery and even emergency surgery. It’s a lesson in caution—if it’s not an urgent procedure, waiting until Mars resumes direct motion will likely lead to better outcomes. However, if surgery is medically necessary, do not delay it.

Embrace Stillness and Reflect on Desire

This retrograde asks you to slow down and focus on your deeper desires. What is it that you truly want? Mars often pushes us to act, but retrograde periods encourage us to refine those actions and make sure they are in alignment with our soul’s desires. Instead of fighting the delays, embrace them as opportunities for reflection and growth.

By taking time to attune yourself to your inner world and recognizing where your motivations lie, you’ll find that the energy of this retrograde can become a valuable time of self-discovery. Slow down, listen to your body, and trust that everything will fall into place when the time is right.

Much Love,

Lisa