3 Cosmic Reasons Why This Summer Is the Season of Love

What's happening astrologically during the week of December 1-8, 2024?

The Sun opposes Jupiter until December 17, creating a tendency to procrastinate or overindulge. Don’t let these impulses overshadow the meaningful progress you can make, especially while Mercury forms a beneficial trine with Chiron, the wounded healer and shaman of the zodiac. This alignment supports deep psychological work and provides access to our inner psyche. Sudden revelations may occur. Writing in a journal can be enlightening, meeting with a therapist can accelerate healing, and an astrology reading may offer valuable insights into the blocks hindering your growth and how to overcome them. If you are willing to put in the effort, you’ll have ample opportunities for both joy and transformation this week.

Mars will join Mercuryin retrograde, from December 7 through February 24, 2025. During this retrograde period, we’ll benefit from slowing down, consciously practicing patience, and ensuring we get plenty of rest. For those prone to a short temper, it’s especially important to be self-aware. Sagittarius season often encourages bluntness, but fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) and air signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius) need to be particularly cautious with their words. Take the high road, avoid unnecessary confrontations, and remain kind and thoughtful. Don’t hesitate to stand up for yourself for others, as you might feel more courageous than usual. With both personal planets in retrograde, it is really important to plan ahead, review our work, exercise caution, be mindful, patient and have a sense of humor.

Finally, Venus forms a trine with Uranus, culminating on December 7. You might feel inspired to try something new, as your desires could push you to seek unique and exciting forms of stimulation, pleasure, and enjoyment. Creativity is heightened, allowing you to explore and express your artistic side in fresh ways. Experiment in the studio, garden, kitchen, or even the bedroom — this energy aligns perfectly with Sagittarius' adventurous spirit.

Read Your Weekly Horoscope For Your Sun & Rising Signs Here!

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Now is your time to shine and share your wealth of life experience with the world around you, Aries. If you’re a teacher, you can effectively impart your knowledge and wisdom to your students. As a parent, the lessons you teach your kids will have a lasting impact. At work, you might record the perfect video or write a compelling proposal. Publishing or producing projects is favored this week. Let your imagination soar, and don’t hold back — your world may expand exponentially.

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Feeling a lots of feelings right now, Taurus? It’s a little early, but this is a great week to write your holiday cards. You’ll feel inspired to connect with loved ones on a deep, meaningful level. Taking your time to write from the heart can spark healing. Connect with elders and be playful with children. Consider planning a yoga retreat or ski trip with family and friends. However you decide to embrace these big feelings, do whatever you can to nurture meaningful connections for yourself while you've got all this love swirling around.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

You've got a lot of big ideas, and right now is such a good time to embrace them, no matter where you are — but especially at work. Collaboration within your career will amplify your creative energy. Brainstorming with others can help you refine ideas and find solutions. And while you're at it, take on leadership roles when possible — your natural communication skills will shine. However, don’t rush; take your time and double-check your work before submitting final projects. PS: Your intimate relationships will thrive as you engage in heart-to-heart conversations outside of work, too!

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

You’re likely to feel energized and ready to tackle a variety of tasks this week. It's definitely great to get into gear and lean into that energy, but don't neglect your softer, sensual side while you do so. Pay attention to your dreams — they’ll carry significant messages. Connect with your partner and be willing to be vulnerable to deepen your bond. If you’re single, focus on building a stronger relationship with yourself. Refine your self-care routine and ensure you’re nurturing your mind, body, and spirit equally. You can do it!

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Your words have power this week, and you’ll excel at advocating for causes you’re passionate about. Channel your energy toward creative goals or community projects — you’ll likely inspire those around you. If you don’t already have a community, seek one out. Consider joining a book club, cooking class, or art group to connect with like-minded individuals. It's the perfect time for you to harness all that excitability that colors your days.

Virgo (August 23 – September 21)

This week, focus on nurturing yourself and reflecting on the meaning of “home.” Is it simply a place, or something you hold in your heart? Explore questions about your lineage and how you were nurtured. Balance home and work life by setting plans to maintain harmony throughout the holidays. Create a magical, peaceful space by cleaning or decorating your home, and connect with loved ones, such as your mother or grandmother.

Libra (September 22 – October 22)

Your world is expanding, and growth opportunities abound. Conversations with others — whether neighbors, clerks, or friends — might shift your perspective. Make plans for a journey or enroll in a class to broaden your horizons. Deepen relationships with siblings through meaningful conversations, paving the way for a fulfilling connection. Just don't let indecision keep you from embracing this energy to the fullest!

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

It's a really, really good time to tackle your financial responsibilities this week, Scorpio. Meet with a financial planner to assess your resources and plan for future growth. Avoid impulsive spending if you receive unexpected windfalls. Stick to a holiday budget to avoid financial stress later. Communicate clearly with loved ones about your goals and balance your dreaming with realistic planning. This will go a long way!

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Nobody has to tell you this twice: you're fiery to the max, Sagittarius. Choose your words carefully and ensure you’re communicating with sensitivity, especially with loved ones. While your enthusiasm is contagious, it may overwhelm more sensitive individuals. Channel your energy into clear-cut projects or physical activities, like dancing or working out. You also wanna pay attention to your dreams — they may reveal valuable insights from your subconscious.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

While you're usually the more grounded, in-the-moment person, don't forget that your dreams hold important messages. Before bed, set the intention to remember them and prepare to record them upon waking. Jungian theory suggests every dream character represents a part of yourself — listen to these messages. Oh, and music can also help unlock your inner wisdom this week. Take time to enjoy or create music that uplifts your soul.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

You're typically pretty connected with your community, but acts of service will be deeply and especially fulfilling this week. Group activities are definitely highlighted for you right now — be sure share your knowledge and take on leadership roles in the appropriate settings when you can. Balance your external efforts with quiet contemplation and spiritual practice to stay grounded. Focus on what makes you feel safe and extend that to others in your community.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

This is a good week for you to take time to pause and set your intentions, Pisces. Clear communication is essential at work, so pay attention to how you express yourself (and maybe add an extra emoji or two to that Slack message), double-check and refine your projects before submission., and practice presentations to ensure success. And though work is a centerpiece of your week, be sure to balance your professional life with moments of quiet reflection, as these will inspire you and deepen your connection to the spiritual realm.

​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)

For the Swiftie in your life: The Breakup Tour by Emily Wibberley and Austin Siegemund-Broka

A Swiftie-coded book full of romance, angst, and second chances. Riley Wynn became an overnight superstar on the heels of a hit single from her breakup album. When her ex-husband claims the song is about him, she calls someone she remembers all too well; her college boyfriend and inspiration for the song, Max. The former lovers haven’t spoken in a decade, but when Riley asks him to go public as her songwriting muse, he agrees under the condition that he joins her band on tour. Sparks fly as the two tour the country, but their rekindled relationship will either last forever or go down in flames.

For your friend that’s been to too many weddings this year: The Good Bride by Jen Marie Wiggins

Ruth Brancof’s wedding is unlike any of the weddings you and your besties have been to this season. The wedding weekend is curated meticulously to promote the quaint Gulf Coast fishing village a year after a hurricane, while also welcoming Ruth’s estranged family back together. Secrets are exposed, accusations are made and the oceanfront rehearsal dinner ends with gunshots and one missing guest. It turns out everyone always has a secret to protect.

For the host with most: Be Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten

An intimate memoir that gives an inside look at the life full of both the milestones and misadventures of culinary figure Ina Garten. The Barefoot Contessa writes about escaping her difficult childhood, finding love, navigating boring jobs, landing a career beyond her dreams and offers life advice for everything in between. For those who have learned to cook with Ina over the years, this book offers a deep and personal look at the woman behind the apron.

For the friend that decorated for Christmas in July: A Home for the Holidays by Taylor Hahn

Packed with holiday hallmarks, this Christmas romance is a gift for anyone who likes to keep the spirit alive all year. Christmas was always magic for wedding singer Mel Hart, thanks to her mom who always managed to make it special, despite her struggles with alcohol. But when Mel loses her mom two weeks before Christmas, she's introduced to an estranged best friend of her mother’s, Barb, who is committed to telling Mel a different story about her mom. Mel spends the holidays with Barb’s family and gets a glimpse into their complicated life, uncovers secrets and learns about her moms past, all while crushing on Barb’s not-yet-divorced son.

For your jet-setting friend on a self-discovery journey: Immersion by Linda Murphy Marshall

A memoir that will captivate those with a hunger for adventure and personal growth. This memoir follows Linda Murphy Marshall’s life as she escapes an abusive family and discovers her talent for foreign languages. This love of language creates an entirely new life for her as a successful multi-linguist where she works on assignments for the US Federal Government around the world, experiencing time in active war zones and jaw dropping situations. Through these experiences, Linda unlocks pieces of her true self and learns how to build a sense of home within herself.

For the history buff in your life: Echoes of Us by Joy Jordan-Lake

A story of dual timelines, spanning World War II to present day, following an unlikely friendship between a Tennessee farm boy, a Jewish Cambridge student, and a German POW. Now, everything the trio has fought for is at risk as their descendants fight for control of their corporation. Attempting to refresh the company image, event planner Hadley Jacks and her sister organize a family reunion on St. Simons Island, Georgia. The sisters uncover the story of a brave woman who links the three men together and the history of old wounds that will test the strength of their friendships.

For your amateur baking bestie: A Legend in the Baking by Jamie Wesley

A story baked with all the ingredients of a flirty romance. When August Hodge’s feminist rant about baking goes viral, he suddenly becomes the hottest bachelor in town. His best friend's sister and decades old teenage love, Sloane Dell, steps in to help keep the social media momentum going for the Sugar Blitz Cupcakes Bakery. The two vow to keep the past in the past, but it’s made clear their attraction still burns hot, forcing them to reconsider their risks and dreams.

For your Disney obsessed cousin who loves spicy reads: Hexed by Emily McIntire

A steamy romance that mixes fairytales and mafia themes. Despite her beauty and charm, Venesa Andersen has never felt good enough. Raised by her mafia connected uncle, she understands the demands of loyalty and duty. But when her cousin introduces her to Enzo “Loverboy” Marino, wealthy businessman by day and mafia prince by night, her attraction to him will put into question her loyalty to duty. As the cousin of Enzo’s fiancé, Venesa is off limits, even though their chemistry is electric. The two are everything they ever dreamed of, but they’ll have to grapple with the consequences of choosing a forbidden love.

For the rock music lover: The Lightning Bottles by Marissa Stapley

Jane Pyre is a former member of the famous rock ‘n’ roll duo, The Lighting Bottles, writing the songs that catapulted them to fame. For the last five years, Jane has been the target of public hatred since the disappearance of her bandmate and soulmate Elijah Hart. Now, after moving to the quiet German countryside, she is faced with a bombshell from a young superfan next door: Proof that Elijah is alive and has been leaving clues for Jane. A cross-continent road trip ensues as Jane and the fan search for the truth.

For military family members: Out of Place by Mary E. McKnight

This story follows Mary, an army brat and middle sister of three as she navigates life in Cold War-era West Germany. Mary struggles with the militant expectation of her father, her relationships with her siblings and the societal pressure of gender roles during the rise of the feminist movement. Mary is on a journey of self-discovery and through the power of place, travel and people she eventually finds her purpose and her voice.

For the your celebrity obsessed bestie: After the Red Carpet by Patricia Leavy

A red carpet proposal by actor Finn Forrester to philosopher Ella Sinclair catapults the couple into the public eye, marking them as a fairy-tale romance. As Ella moves into Finn’s Beverly Hills mansion, the two are challenged with finding a way to interlace their worlds. Finn is afraid of losing his fiancé and gets lost in perfectionism while Ella is dedicated to maintaining her own identity. Simultaneously, Ella is writing a treatise on love, exploring the question: when we love so deeply, where do we end and where does the other begin?

For the sports aficionado in your life: The Early Days of ESPN by Peter Fox

A slam dunk read for any sports fan that has turned on ESPN. Chronicling the early days of the sports network, this is a story about how a conversation over martinis in 1978 revolutionized sports entertainment. Peter Fox, ESPN’s founding executive producer, tells the behind-the-scenes journey of how a group of Connecticut locals, inspired by the mania surrounding UConn men’s basketball, took a chance on their careers and founded ESPN. Full of stories of mistakes and embarrassing moments, this book chronicles the journey of an idea that grew into a broadcast empire.

For the hopeless romantic: A Love Song For Ricki Wilde by Tia Williams

Ricki Wilde, daughter of a powerful Atlanta dynasty, has never fully fit in with her socialite sisters. Determined to find the exciting life she knows awaits her, Ricki leaves everything she knows behind and moves to a Harlem brownstone where she realizes her dream of opening a flower shop. Of course, everything changes when she meets an alluring stranger one evening. The two lovers are forever linked as the story of two passionate lovers unfolds against the backdrop of New York.

For the true crime junkie: Society of Lies by Lauren Ling Brown

A dark academia mystery that will keep any true crime lover unraveling every page. Maya is excited as she returns to Princeton for a nostalgic reunion and her sister Naomi’s graduation. But the celebration abruptly ends when Naomi is found dead, and Maya suspects the cause is much more sinister than an accident. As Maya investigates deeper, she learns all about her sister's secrets, including her involvement in the same exclusive campus social club she was once a part of, the Sterling Club. She fears that her own past at Princeton may play a role in her sister's death as every clue circles back to a long-held secret.

For the corporate go getter: Mind Magic by James R. Doty, MD

A deep dive into the power of manifestation, beyond the widely stigmatized buzz word. Dr. James Doty provides a path for a kinder and better world through the possibilities of manifestation. He outlines a way to rewire the brain through attention, meditation, visualization, and compassion. His guide aims to provide people with clarity, agency, and the ability to realize their dreams, perfect for those looking for a reset.

For the fantasy fanatic: The Fox Wife by Yangsze Choo

A balance of myth and mystery set in Manchuria in 1908. When a courtesan's frozen body is found, rumors about shape shifting fox spirits arise and detective Bao is hired to find the dead woman’s identity. Meanwhile, a family cursed with the deaths of their eldest sons before they turn twenty four is met by a servant named Snow who has a past checkered with secrets. More than anything, Snow seeks revenge for her lost child. Traveling from China to Japan in search of a murderer, Bao and Snow are met with old friends, new foes, and even more death.

For the young reader: The Jump by Brittney Morris

Jax, Yas, Spider and Han make up Team Jericho, the best scavenger hunting team in Seattle. But when an oil refinery threatens their homes, their communities, and their families, the team’s world is turned upside-down. Team Jericho stumbles upon the chance of a lifetime when The Order offers them a prize of influence if they complete a puzzle. Winning the game means protecting everyone they love, but with the competition not far behind, they will need to be creative.