A Challenging Winter Ahead: Mars Retrograde in Cancer & Leo.

The past few weeks may have felt like an emotional rollercoaster, filled with turbulence and unexpected events. As things settle, it’s time to look ahead more clearly. However, be prepared — winter is coming, and with it, some intense astrological transits that could stir up emotions in unexpected ways.

Mars, the planet that drives action and energy, will enter Cancer in September and remain there until November. After that, it retrogrades into Leo in December before circling back to Cancer in January and staying until April 2025. This six-month period of Mars in Cancer, in particular, will likely bring challenges that many of us won’t be able to ignore.

Mars retrograde often involves revisiting unresolved issues, and in Cancer, the focus turns inward, forcing us to confront the emotions and insecurities we’ve been avoiding. Cancer, a sign known for its protective instincts, buries feelings in self-defence. When Mars, with its forceful energy, starts stirring things up, it pushes those emotions to the surface. Suddenly, the things we’ve been shielding ourselves from — the emotional clutter we’ve let accumulate — become impossible to ignore.

Think of it this way: when we avoid addressing difficult emotions, it’s like letting physical clutter pile up. Eventually, that clutter becomes a barrier, not just physically but mentally and emotionally, preventing us from moving forward. It might make us feel safe in the short term, but it reinforces negative beliefs about ourselves over time. We hide behind the mess because, deep down, it feels safer than admitting we deserve better.

Mars in Cancer will challenge this tendency. It will push you to face the emotional mess head-on. It might be uncomfortable, as you’ll need to confront insecurities and vulnerabilities that have long been buried. But this process is necessary to clear the emotional baggage and make room for something better.

In December, when Mars retrogrades into Leo, the energy shifts. Leo brings a more assertive, outward-facing side, but the emotional drive remains intense. Leo’s fire will make it challenging to ignore problems, especially those tied to pride and self-worth. This part of the transit will demand that you take action, but the key is not to rush or force solutions. It’s about learning to balance emotional sensitivity with courage.

By the time Mars returns to Cancer in January, the focus will shift back to emotional healing, but you’ll be better equipped this time. You’ll have a clearer sense of what you’ve been avoiding and a stronger resolve to clear out what no longer serves you.

Navigating this period will require self-care and patience. Whether you lean on friends and family or seek professional support, remember that you’re not alone. Don’t hesitate to reach out when things feel overwhelming. The emotional drive during this transit can feel like an intense tidal wave, but it’s ultimately pushing you toward a healthier, more grounded version of yourself.

The protective instincts that once kept you safe may no longer serve you the same way. This winter, it’s time to let go of the emotional clutter and make space for something better. Though the process may be challenging, remember that it’s essential for growth. By the time April 2025 rolls around, you’ll likely feel lighter, more in tune with your actual needs, and ready for what comes next. Keep this positive outcome in mind as you navigate the challenges ahead.

Buy Me A Coffee — sustainable support for creatives