Mars Retrograde in Cancer | Horoscope

Are you REALLY taking care of yourself? Like really girl?

Girls, gays, and celestial theys — the collective has been going through it for the past month, and the tides are turning. Whether they are turning for the better is still debatable, though, because (Jan. 6) Mars Retrograde has left Leo & entered Cancer. Mars will continue stationing retrograde until Feb 23, and after that, we have until April 18, when Mars moves back into Leo. Three and a half months of Mars in Cancer… this should be interesting.

Mars Rx through Cancer should feel a bit like this image above

When Mars is in Cancer, it is in its fall, which means it’s not the most ideal expression of the plane’s energy. Mars thrives on being active and self-reliant, constantly moving from one project to the next, adding new notches to the bedpost, and throwing hands when necessary. Under the influence of Cancer, however, that dom top energy softens. We step into the shoes of a soft top, allowing for a less aggressive and more nurturing approach to life.

You probably felt your light dimmed over the past month - like an aging twink clinging onto their youth and hiding away because of a receding hairline. The things that used to inspire you now frustrate you and leave you confused if it was even your passion in the first place. However, rather than throwing in the towel — you’ll find that now that Mars is in Cancer, you’ll be able to rebuild the foundation of that passion. Now, you reconnect with acting on emotion and trusting your intuition.

Before diving deeper, I want you to think back to what was going on in your life between October 5 and November 4. That’s when Mars last transited through Cancer so that you will see parallels over the next few months. Start taking note of what feels familiar and how you previously navigated the bumps in the road. They could hold the answers to navigate the next few months.

Mars Rx is transiting through my 11th House (house of social circles, friendships, goals, and humanitarian issues)

This Mars Rx has been filled with themes of how to nurture the inner child within us to give them permission to go after what is fulfilling. The typical progression of the zodiac is Cancer, followed by Leo. That sequence teaches us how nurturing emotions and being in a stable and secure environment (both Cancerian lessons) allows joy, individuality, and creative expression to thrive (all Leo lessons). We are experiencing that in reverse and through the lens of our actions (Mars being the planet of actions). The current Mars Rx reveals what is missing in our Leo experiences, a byproduct of neglecting Cancer motifs.

Now that we are in the Cancer phase of this Mars Rx, we expect that it will be more apparent how you must focus on your needs and wants. Mars in Cancer permits us to fight for our heart desires, reminds us it is okay to cry when frustrated, and demands we prioritize creating safe and secure spaces. When you can’t meet the Cancerian call to trust your emotions, rely on the support of your family, and create necessary boundaries — it is harder for you to embrace Leo's experiences.

Leo's experiences are all things that bring us joy. A pottery class. A night out with the girls. A walk with your children in nature. It's a one-night stand with someone out of our league. Anything that brings a smile to your face and the flames of life alive. It is hard to do that when you are…

• ignoring your emotional wellbeing

• prioritizing someone else’s feelings over your own

• living in a state of uncertainty

• neglecting to treat your home like a sanctuary

so ask yourself, how have I struggled to acknowledge what I need in my life? What brings me happiness, and how can I nurture a stable foundation to experience it regularly? Am I prioritizing spaces that bring me peace of mind?

The following month and a half will continue to bring tension to our lives, a given with Mars Rx. How are these tensions revealing where a lack of security is present in your life? You may, at times, say or do shit you regret, and you may be more reactive than normal. Right now, the lesson is to nurture the child within you that needs to be told it is okay to cry because that doesn’t make you weak. It is OK to create boundaries that don’t make you bitchy. It is essential to fight for your family and your emotional well-being and give that inner child permission to pursue what makes them feel fulfilled so their light is never dimmed.

There will be some days that feel more impactful than others during the rest of this retrograde, which I have listed below — in addition to how Mars Rx through Cancer influences the natal chart. Let me know in the comments how Mars Rx has been showing up for you — I’d love to share any additional insights I can!

Key Mars Rx Dates

January 12 — Mars in Cancer Trine Saturn in Pisces

Saturn’s influence in this harmonious aspect provides a stabilizing force amidst the emotional waves of Mars in Cancer. This trine encourages us to channel our emotions into productive efforts, fostering steady progress toward our goals. Saturn’s wisdom reminds us to focus on diligence and perseverance, helping us build a solid foundation without rushing or cutting corners.

January 15 — Sun in Capricorn Opposite Mars in Cancer

This transit brings fiery and polarizing energy. You might feel torn between the Sun’s call for discipline and Mars’ heightened emotionality. Tempers can flare easily, so interact carefully to avoid unnecessary conflicts. While ambition may drive you to assert your independence, remember to balance self-interest with compassion. Be mindful that pushing too hard could strain relationships or create avoidable setbacks.

January 23 — Mars in Cancer Sextile Uranus in Taurus

This dynamic aspect invites surprises and breakthroughs. Uranus’ innovative energy combines with Mars’ emotional drive, opening the door for unexpected opportunities. However, with Mars still retrograde, impulsivity could lead to missteps. Approach this transit with openness and flexibility, allowing blessings to unfold naturally rather than forcing outcomes. This is an excellent time to embrace creative solutions and unconventional paths.

January 23 — Mercury in Capricorn Opposite Mars in Cancer

Words carry extra weight during this transit. Mercury’s pragmatic and often critical tone in Capricorn clashes with Mars’ emotional and reactive energy in Cancer. Miscommunications or heated arguments could easily arise, so practice mindfulness in your speech and writing. If tensions escalate, take a step back to reassess before responding. Remember: not every thought needs to be expressed.

January 25 — Venus in Pisces Trine Mars in Cancer

This gentle and harmonious aspect brings a welcome reprieve from the intensity of the retrograde. Venus’s influence softens emotional edges, fostering connection and understanding. This is a beautiful time for creative expression, heartfelt conversations, or simply indulging in self-care. Whether you’re reconnecting with loved ones or finding solace in solitude, lean into the soothing energy of Venus.

February 9 — Mars in Cancer Trine Saturn in Pisces

Mars and Saturn meet again in a stabilizing trine, offering a second chance to solidify your plans. This aspect highlights the importance of patience and discipline. Consistent effort and careful planning will help you navigate the final stretch of Mars retrograde with clarity and purpose. Trust that steady progress, no matter how slow, will lead to meaningful results.

February 23 — Mercury in Pisces Trine Mars in Cancer

As Mars stations direct, this empathetic trine between Mercury and Mars encourages heartfelt communication and emotional healing. Mercury’s intuitive energy in Pisces blends seamlessly with Mars’ reflective state, making this an ideal time to revisit creative projects or mend relationships. Allow yourself to explore your emotions through art, journaling, or meaningful conversations.