DIY Astro Guide: What Your Horoscope Means This Week, 2/16/15

​When is Mars Retrograde?

Mars retrograde will begin on Friday, December 6, 2024, and ends its backspin on Sunday, February 23, 2025. The warrior planet will reign in the sign of Leo from December 6 to January 6 and then proceed to the sign of Cancer from January 6 to February 23, 2025.

What does Mars mean in astrology?

To understand how Mars retrograde works, let's learn about Mars and its planetary influence. Mars represents our drive, passion, and our approach to sex. This planet powers up your motivation and keeps you alive and thriving. When unbalanced, we can be impulsive, accident-prone, and argumentative.

As Mars moves through all the 12 signs and phases over positions in your birth chart, it also energizes you to make bold moves toward your desired goals. Mars transits feel succinct and are empowering overall. This planet fires up your energy and body while helping you get things done. Nothing can stand in the way of your momentum when tuning into the fiery planet. Often, if one has a series of Mars transits in their birth chart, it can be an impactful time to push through for projects. However, mindfulness is crucial during these periods. It can lead to misjudged decisions, and in these cases, carefully tread through integrating a reflective outlook.

​What is Mars Retrograde?

When the action planet goes retrograde, it’s time to hit the brakes and recalibrate your energy and processes. If you scroll on Instagram or TikTok, you may have seen retrograde as a misnomer for a "doom-and gloom" time. I stand and continue to debunk this misconception. Retrogrades are a blessing in disguise as they allow us to experience rest, reflection, and rejuvenation. If you understand the planets' flow and rhythms, you'll be set up for success and be content. Mars retrograde will enable you to transmute your anger better and respond intentionally to conflict. Picture this retrograde as an opportunity to create a sacred practice and to be more in tune with your energy.

Know that when planets go retrograde, each one emanates a frequency and intensity in its effect. With Mars back spinning, we will feel its impact as it begins in the fire sign Leo in its early degrees and then proceeds to the dynamic sign Cancer. We will evaluate approaches regarding self-image, pride, inner security, and domestic life with these two signs.

​Any Mars Retrograde Power Days?

On January 3, 2025, Mars will face off against Pluto, the planet of rebirth and power. These two planets will reveal a lesson or revelation involving your stance and views toward passion and success. It's about looking at the bigger picture instead of competing for self-centered reasons. Focus on pursuing happiness while preserving integrity for the greater good.

​The Zodiac Signs Most Affected During This 2024-2025 Mars Retrograde

This Mars retrograde from December 6, 2024, to February 23, 2025, will impact those who have their sun or other astrological placements within 0 to 6 degrees of the fixed signs – Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius. The cardinal signs between 17 and 29 degrees of Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn will experience their ultimate glow-up even more than the fixed signs.

​Your Mars Retrograde 2024-2025 Horoscope

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Mars retrograde begins in your fifth house, slowing down your creative or romantic pursuits and urging you to reassess your passions and how you express them. For these next few weeks, take this opportunity to review your desires and focus on what truly lights you up—we believe in you! As the retrograde advances, the action planet takes over your fourth house of home, giving you the space to become more introspective and invest in your emotional needs while reviewing your closest relationships. Overall, it's not an ideal time to push past your limits in your relationships, it will be a pivotal time to take stock in what truly matters for your wellbeing.

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

These next several weeks may be challenging involving home or with family as the Mars retrograde impacts your emotional security and living situation. With the war planet taking place in your fourth house of family and domestic life, avoid sweeping issues under the rug and confront unresolved matters with tact. Talk it out and find a solution as retrograde proceeds with Mars in your third house of communication. Observe your social connections and see if your skills need fine tuning through advanced study. It can be an excellent time to refresh your memory and perfect or teach others what you know.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

The motivation planet will shake up your third house, and these next several weeks will test your ability to convey messages, as this retrograde may bring delays or misunderstandings in your communication. To work with this, reflect before speaking. The wonderful part about this Mars retrograde is that you can slow down and methodically express your ideas and energy to others. You'll feel more energized as you discern. Mars then backs into your second house of finances and income, and it would be in your best interests to fine tune your approach to money and budgeting. Avoid impulsive spending and big purchases.

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

This Mars retrograde may stir up financial uncertainties in the next few months as it takes residence in your second house. Don't worry. You can power up your self-worth and stance with money by reassessing your values and spending habits. Analyze how you manage your resources and make adjustments that align with your long-term security. Mars backspins and then powers up your sign in the first house, revealing how you emit energy. The lesson here is not to force your desired results. Slow down, let go, and rest.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

The Mars retrograde in your sign may stir up personal insecurities in the next few months. Don't worry. You can power up your self-worth and stance by taking small steps toward your goals or keeping your ideas on the back burner. It's a time to percolate and rebuild your self-esteem by celebrating small wins and practicing gratitude. Mars will then enter your twelfth house of subconscious realms, stimulating your dreams while giving you an extra boost of intuition. Listen intently, and you'll know what to do once Mars goes direct.

Virgo (August 23 – September 21)

You're about to enter your wildest dreams in 2025, but it begins by clearing out the cobwebs to step into your desired path. Mars retrograde in your twelfth house will help you slow down and confront your unwanted subconscious patterns, hidden fears, and past wounds that impact your sense of self. Clear out and consolidate your best interests. Once Mars backspins into your eleventh house of friendship circles and social life, it will reveal truths regarding your connections and who you vibe with the most.

Libra (September 22 – October 22)

There will be a slight snag in the next several weeks as Mars retrogrades in your eleventh house of networks, encouraging you to reflect on your social circles or revamp your social media profile. Permit yourself to take the backseat and note how you feel about the groups or information you have been aligning with. Analyze your energy. Mars will then proceed into your tenth house of career and public life, highlighting what you have built in your journey. This retrograde will help you cross-analyze whether you desire to stay in your current position or make your mark.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Over the next several weeks, the Mars retrograde in your tenth house will help you slow down and observe your professional path and public image. The dreams you placed on the back burner will reappear, and you'll face a choice to take it or leave it. Then, the warrior planet backspins into your ninth house of travels and philosophies, granting you the space to understand the big picture and your place in the world. It's time to understand your role and what you truly desire— power up your personal beliefs.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

The Mars retrograde in your ninth house these next several weeks will put your magic to the test as it prompts you to rethink your personal beliefs and long-term vision. It’s a time to reflect on what truly resonates with your values and worldview. Remember that life is a continuous journey filled with valuable lessons. Later, as Mars enters your eighth house of emotional needs and shared resources, it will shake up your views towards comfort and reframe what it means in your intimate relationships.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

The driven planet Mars retrograde in your eighth house of the hidden realms these next few weeks will shed light on your shared resources, intimate connections, and emotional boundaries. It will be a testy time with financial issues or lingering power dynamics. Confront these matters by expressing your concerns with your S.O. or being truthful. Vulnerability and humility will be your best friends during this retrograde. Then Mars retrogrades in the seventh house of commitment and partnerships, shedding light on your genuine connections and approach to negotiation.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

With Mars retrograde in your seventh house of relationships, your connection or progression will slow down and feel like a slow pressure cooker. Avoid signing contracts or agreements and review them later. Reflect on your current one-on-one relationships (personal or professional) and analyze how you navigate conflicts. Mars then reveals your approach to daily routine and wellness as it backspins into your sixth house. It may be challenging to start up new regimens or habits. Streamline what matters to you most to ensure success and a sound mind.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

What's happening astrologically during the week of November 24 to December 1, 2024?

Mercury goes retrograde on November 25. Do not to fear or dread these periods when Mercury is retrograde; instead, view them as a perfect opportunity to review and reevaluate your actions. Slow down, get organized, and double-check any documents before sending them out. Don’t leave things to the last minute. Pack early, and make sure you leave plenty of time if you're traveling over the holiday weekend. Flexibility and a sense of humor are essential.

On November 27, the Sun makes a beneficial trine to Mars, the planet of action. We will feel this energy all week. It should be a wonderfully optimistic time when self-confidence is high. We can be courageous and enthusiastic, so if you need to approach your superiors with a request for a raise or more responsibility, this week supports those brave actions. Be sure to exercise and move your body; dancing and playing can be especially joyful and fun. This energy is also quite attractive, so if you need extra motivation to ask someone out, you might find the courage this week to act on a crush.

Also, on November 27, Venus, the planet of love, harmony, and values, squares Chiron, the wounded healer and Shaman of the Zodiac. This challenging aspect might bring up wounds around self-worth or self-esteem. Past traumatic experiences involving relationships or finances might resurface. Balancing the Sun - Mars harmony with this challenging Venus - Chiron aspect is key. We all have the potential to heal and overcome a lack of confidence or insecurities about self-worth. We also have the opportunity to help others overcome self-consciousness or anxiety. Use the enthusiasm and optimism of Sagittarius to help one another.

There is a New Moon in Sagittarius on November 30, opposite Jupiter in Gemini. This is a perfect time to kick off the holidays, as we will find ourselves optimistic, generous, and cheerful. Be aware that Jupiter can amplify responses, leading to overindulgence, overpromising, or being overly optimistic. This is usually not a problem because everyone is feeling happy, but if you need to monitor your consumption or expenditures, pause before acting. Use Mercury retrograde as a reminder to take a breath and reevaluate any big purchases or acts of generosity. Take time to be still and plan what you’d like to accomplish this month. There is abundant energy for success if we focus and are clear about our ambitions.

I look to the sky and the planets to help navigate the world around us. If you’d like to know more about how these and other transits affect your life, please contact me for a personalized reading! SevenSistersAstrology.com

​Read Your Weekly Horoscope For Your Sun & Rising Signs

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

You should feel extra energized this week. You'll have the vitality and inspiration to work on creative projects. You might be tempted to work alone in the name of expediency. However, collaborating with others will require patience, which will benefit you during Mercury retrograde. Also, don’t forget that your leadership skills are best utilized when inspiring and empowering others. Include others, even if it initially feels frustrating. Try the mantra: The more, the merrier!

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Home and family are on the front burner this week. You might feel nostalgic for your childhood. It’s a good time to act on any projects around the home. Actively addressing maintenance issues or remodeling projects will make you feel more secure. Take a trip to the thrift store to add color or brighten your home. Take care of yourself in the process and refrain from overextending your resources. Nurture your loved ones, but don’t forget to nurture yourself too.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Do you have a writing or video project that would benefit from focused effort? This week offers you the energy and inspiration to complete a communication effort. The key and the challenge will be to quiet your mind so you can focus. Find a quiet corner in a library or retreat to your office, and set up a schedule to discipline yourself. Practice meditation techniques and stick to a physical exercise routine to stay centered and make the most of this increased energy. Take care not to argue with others; instead, direct your energy toward accomplishing your goals.

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

This week might find you dreaming of an entrepreneurial project to make more money. Or you might be ready to invest in yourself to advance your earning capabilities. This week favors any project that could bring in more resources. Be sure to orient your actions around what you desire, not what others think you should do. Refrain from impulse buying and watch your credit card expenditures. Your resources are a key focus this week; prioritize wise expenditures and money-making opportunities. Another way to use your money wisely is to focus on health — start the holiday season determined to stay healthy. Consider purchasing a punch card at a nearby yoga or Pilates studio.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Take charge of your life, but be careful not to overpower those around you as you pursue your dreams. You can assert yourself effectively — assertiveness is not aggression. Put action plans in place to advance your goals. You'll be more charismatic and attractive the more confidence you display. You can successfully pitch ideas to a boss, advocate for yourself, or stand up for what you believe in. Just don’t overdo it. Keep your ego in check. Be sure to exercise and expend your energy, or you might find yourself in unnecessary arguments and frustrations.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Take time to rest. Pay attention to your dreams at night and actively engage in daydreaming. Your imagination will be quite active. Use this time to connect with your inner most desires and create a plan to achieve your dreams. Observe any behavioral patterns that effect the way you assert yourself. Use this courageous time to adjust unconscious actions or inactions as you pursue your aspirations. You may prefer to work alone, but be sure to avoid distractions. What you uncover during this reflective period will be insightful and helpful in the near future.

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Cooperate and collaborate with a team to achieve your goals. You may feel more inclined to lead rather than follow. Use your natural inclination for balance and fairness, coupled with your organizational skills, to benefit the whole group. Delegate tasks and demonstrate generosity to an inspire your team. Everyone has a role, and potential for growth under your leadership. Use this power wisely to prevent your schedule from becoming overwhelming, and ensure you leave time to devise innovative approaches.

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

There is intrinsic value in what you contribute to your community. Are you motivated by personal aspirations, or are you pursuing something purely for external validation? You might seek acknowledgement and praise from others for a job well done but remember, praise from others can often feel shallow. What is truly matters is feeling pride and self-satisfaction in your work. It's a great time to refine your professional aspirations. Your substantial natural charisma can be leveraged to expand your business or professional presence through self-promotion.

Sagittarius (November 21 – December 21)

You're feeling bolder than usual. Use this powerful time to expand your consciousness in meaningful ways. Study a new subject or learn a new skill to enhance your capabilities. You might feel restless and eager for an adventure, and travel could provide a great opportunity to explore and learn about the world around you. However, this restlessness may also cause you to become stubborn or assume you have all the answers. Channel this energy into personal growth and discovery. Restlessness and sleeplessness my also contribute to nervous energy, so practice grounding techniques to stay balanced.

Capricorn (December 21 – January 19)

Prepare for transformation and change, especially in your intimate relationships. You may feel compelled to explore deeper connections through vulnerability and open communication. Seek intimacy that is rooted in equality and respect rather than dominance or submission. Pay attention to the power dynamics in your relationships and strive for reciprocity. This is an excellent time for self-discovery and growth in the meaningful connections you nurture with loved ones.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

Avoid acting impulsively when faced with challenges in your relationships. Instead, take an objective and composed approach to avoid escalating conflicts. Address each situation with the intent to create cooperative and creative solutions. Practice active listening and strive to be fair and balanced in your interactions. Take time to reflect on your impulses and consider whether they stem from outdated patterns or conditioning that no longer serve you. You have the power to evolve and grow into more constructive modes of relating.

Pisces (February 20 – March 21)

Focus on refining your daily routines and activities. Get organized and commit to a health-focused routine. Achieving physical well-being may involve improving systems in your home life. Stick to a schedule, stay consistent with healthy habits, and pay attention to your sleep patterns. Make sure to get plenty of exercise during this high-energy phase. The systems you establish now can provide a reliable foundation for the future. While you may feel drawn to help others, ensure your personal routines and well-being are solid first. Your example will serve as an inspiration to those around you.

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