Mars, named after the god of war, is the planet of will, energy, sexuality, and action. As Mars goes retrograde in the sign of Leo, it brings about a slowdown that impacts how we express ambition, sexuality, and approach conflict. Mars retrograde is an optical illusion that forces us to reevaluate our desires and how we pursue them. The planet goes retrograde roughly once every two years for 8 to 11 weeks, impacting us on a personal level due to its proximity to Earth.
When Mars retrogrades in Leo, it affects how we differentiate ourselves from others and make our way in the world. The energy of the planet shifts internally, leading to a decrease in actionable adrenaline and external energy. This can make us feel like non-player characters in our own lives, challenging us to reevaluate what we want and how we go about achieving it. Mars retrograde signifies a time where we are required to reassess our desires and goals.
The Mars retrograde of 2024 is divided into two phases: one in Leo and the other in Cancer. In Leo, we are called to express ourselves and create without the need for external validation. The retrograde cycle asks us to assess the authenticity of our intentions and to create from a place of true need rather than a desire for approval. In contrast, the Mars retrograde in Cancer signifies a period of discomfort and obstruction in expressing warrior energy in the maternal sign. This phase requires us to defend the vulnerable, build sanctuaries, and dissent from toxic traditions.
The Mars retrograde cycle can trigger feelings of insecurity, impatience, and defensive behaviors. However, the slowdown is an opportunity to reassess our motivations and intentions, shedding light on areas where we may be seeking external validation or acting out of ego. The conclusion of the retrograde in February 2025 signifies a time where we must avoid succumbing to negative behaviors and instead focus on building defenses, nurturing others, and dissenting from harmful norms.
The retrograde in Leo encourages us to create and express in a way that serves our authentic self rather than seeking external validation. It challenges us to hold criticism and creativity simultaneously and to avoid ego inflation. The retrograde in Cancer, on the other hand, emphasizes the need to defend and provide comfort for the vulnerable. The juxtaposition of warrior energy in the domain of the maternal calls for a balance between assertiveness and compassion in our actions.
Overall, the Mars retrograde of 2024 is a period of introspection and reassessment of our desires, intentions, and actions. It challenges us to differentiate between needs rooted in authenticity and those driven by external validation. By the end of the retrograde cycle, we are encouraged to build defenses, provide comfort to others, and stand up against harmful traditions. The retrograde serves as a reminder to go within, reflect on our motivations, and emerge stronger and more resilient in our actions.
