Mars Retrograde in Leo: A Realignment of Sovereign Power
This retrograde in Leo offers a potent check-in with our personal sense of sovereignty, as Mars—the planet of action, power, and control—retraces its steps through this bold and regal sign. Before Pluto took over Scorpio’s rulership, Mars was the original planet associated with power and control.
Leo, as a sign, is about individuality, leadership, and accountability. At its highest vibration, Leo leads from the heart with courage and integrity. This retrograde invites us to realign with our authentic selves and recalibrate how we step into our personal power.
The Journey in Leo: Personal Identity Under Review
Mars will turn retrograde at only 6° in Leo before shifting back into Cancer. During this time, we’re likely to confront themes around identity, self-expression, and the kind of leader we want to be in our own lives.
As Mars opposes Pluto in Aquarius, tensions between personal power and collective dynamics may rise. The Mars-Pluto opposition forces us to confront the tension between our personal will and the collective’s expectations. It urges a deeper evaluation of how power dynamics play out in our connections, pushing us to ask hard questions about authenticity and belonging.
This could feel particularly intense for those with planets or points in the early degrees of the fixed signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius) or late degrees of the cardinal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn).
Are we aligning with the right social connections? Do our actions reflect who we truly are?
Mars Retrogrades Into Cancer: Shifting Priorities
Once Mars moves back into Cancer, the focus shifts. Cancer’s themes of home, family, and emotional security take center stage. Protection becomes a priority—whether for ourselves or for our loved ones.
This period asks us to examine our caretaking roles:
- Who are we nurturing?
- Are we caring for the right people—our blood family or our chosen family?
- What boundaries need strengthening?
As Mars retraces its steps to 17° Cancer, we’re called to revisit past actions, re-evaluate emotional commitments, and decide what (and who) is truly worth fighting for.
Key Themes: Hot Tempers and Hard Truths
Mars doesn’t retrograde gracefully. Tempers may flare, frustrations may rise, and patience could be in short supply. It’s crucial to channel this fiery energy wisely.
Mars challenges us to identify our “non-negotiables”—the people, values, and causes that matter most. But it also reminds us to choose our battles carefully. Not everyone or everything will accompany us through this retrograde, but those that do are likely to stand the test of time.
Questions for Reflection
As we navigate this retrograde, consider:
- What is your definition of power?
- How are you leading your own life?
- What relationships feel sustainable, and which need reevaluation?
- What are you willing to fight for, and where can you let go?
As you reflect on these questions, allow Mars’ retrograde to guide you toward clarity and intentionality in how you show up in your relationships and priorities.
In Conclusion
The answers may take time to unfold, but Mars’ retrograde dance ensures that we emerge stronger, more aligned, and more authentic by its end.
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