“Power is not given to you, it is taken.” – Margaret Thatcher

Introduction: Introducing the Retrograde – basics first.

On 6 December 2024, Mars will go stationary at 6 degrees in the sign of Leo, preparing to go retrograde on the 8 December.  She will gradually, over the next 11 weeks, appear to travel backwards, making her way back int the sign of Cancer which she does on 6 January 2025, also known as Epiphany.  Her retrograde journey will come to an end on 23 February 2025 at 17 degrees of Cancer when she will once again become stationary direct.    

To think, she left the sign of Cancer on the 4 November 2024, moved into Leo, then moved back into Cancer on 23 February and finally moves back into Leo on 18 April 2025.  What a journey!  6 months. 

The last time Mars was retrograde in Leo and travelled back over the degrees 6 to 0 was in 2010. 

If you have any planets in the fixed signs of Taurus, Leo, Scorpio or Aquarius within 0 to 6 degrees, and especially in Leo, then this retrograde will have more of an impact for you.  However, that does not mean that everyone should dismiss it as irrelevant as that is not the case.      

1. And the star of the show – time to meet Mars

Mars is the warrioress.  She is the planet of assertiveness, action, authenticity and courage.  She is what gives us fire in our bellies, motivation and empowerment.  She is also the planet of physical movement for she represents our physical selves as well as our sexual selves, our sexual energy.  She is dynamic, the creatrix, life force energy. 

2. Mars Retrograde – what’s the difference?

In her retrograde state, her characteristics change.  She is no longer moving forward and so she is no longer motivating, being assertive, a planet of action.  She now takes on a more retrospective and introspective role.  Her fire has burned down to glowing embers.  She is no longer the warrioress, encouraging you, fuelling you, even daring you.  Now she is looking to quieten you, suggesting you take this time to reflect on the journey you have been on, how far you have come, and where you are going.  Is it still the right journey for you? 

3. Opportunities or challenges?

No one is going to suggest that Mars retrograde in Leo is going to be an easy ride.  She is going to have her moments.  However, she will be transformational and so, if you want it, there are opportunities to be had. 

You can use this time to truly assess where you are in life right now. 

• Does your life feel authentic and in alignment with how you want it to be?

• Are you feeling inspired on a daily basis?

• Does your life bring you joy?

• Are you creating the life you want full of purpose and meaning?

• Are you fully invested in your life?

• Does your life empower you?

• Are you embracing your full sovereignty?

• Are you truly embodying your sexuality?

• Are you fully embracing your life force energy?

During this time, you have the opportunity to finally shed the shadow parts of you that you have been holding on to, have become attached to, and that are not serving you.  This is the perfect time to sacrifice them to the embers and let them burn away.  You don’t need them anymore.  Surrender them up, knowing that by doing so, you are opening yourself up to something new. 

This Mars retrograde encourages healing, especially focusing on the heart chakra and the solar plexus, the two areas that focus on receiving love and recognising self-worth and empowerment.  These are Leo qualities and the Mars warrioress in her retrograde state will help you obtain them if you fully surrender and do the work. 

4. Stand in your light

This is not the time for seeking external validation, support from loved ones, friends, family or peers.  You are now required to prove yourself ready and worthy of standing on your own, recognising that you are good enough as you are and you hold the power within you to do whatever you want.  You can take charge of your own life.  You are brave enough and courageous enough to be seen for who you are.  You don’t need validation or approval from anyone else.  Stand in your own light and be your true, authentic self. 

5. Triggers

Be careful not be triggered during this time.  Mars does have a temper and can get angry.  You are being asked to stand up and be authentic, be true to you but there could be times when you feel as though you still have to put a mask on in order to fit in. Or maybe you will feel surrounded by others who feel fake.  Maybe you will feel as though you have to pretend to be somebody in order to be worthy. 

Remember to stand your ground.  This is old thinking, these are old habits and old programming.  Question it. 

• Why do I feel this way?

• What has triggered me?

• What made me angry?

• Why did I react in this way?

Journal it out.  Just start writing and honour what comes up for you without judgement.  Understanding what and why will be so helpful for the future. 

6. To do and not to do

Retrogrades are generally not the time to be starting something new and this is certainly the case when Mars is retrograde in Leo.  If you think about it, her energy has slowed right down, things are in that retrospective state.  You don’t want to be launching something new when her energy is in wind down or reverse mode.  You need her energy to be full throttle, motivated, all action, inspired, creative and raring to go. 

However, if a project is already in motion and you are wanting to tweak it, change things up and so are in a reflective frame of mood, that is different.  That is when your creative juices can get flowing. 

This is also a good time for other things such as:

Engage in Creative Play

Explore art, music, dance, or any form of self-expression that allows you to tap into your playful side. Leo loves creativity, and retrograde energy can help you refine your craft.

Reconnect with Your Passions

Take a moment to reflect on what truly excites you. Make a list of activities, hobbies, or goals that ignite your inner fire, and explore ways to bring them back into your life.

Practice Active Rest

Retrogrades are not about complete inactivity but about intentional rest. Take time for restorative practices such as yoga, mindfulness, or gentle movement to recharge your energy. 

7. Affirmations to Support Mars Retrograde in Leo

I embrace this period of reflection to reignite my inner passions.

I lead with authenticity and confidence, staying true to my heart.

My creativity flows freely, fuelled by inspiration and joy.

I honour my inner child, giving them space to play and heal.

Challenges are opportunities for growth, and I trust my ability to overcome them.

I release the need for external validation and trust in my unique light.

My relationships are grounded in honesty, love, and mutual respect.

I nurture my self-worth, knowing I am deserving of success and joy.

I am patient with myself as I realign with my deepest desires.

My personal power shines brightly, guiding me through this transformative time.

Conclusion

So beautiful soul, hopefully this has helped give you an explanation about Mars retrograde in Leo, her energy and how you can harness it for good, and the opportunities she can present you. 

If you are looking for transformation, change, and new ways to step into your light and claim your power then this really could be it. 

If you don’t know where Mars is in your birth chart, or maybe you do but need some help getting to grips with her energy and how to make the most of her, then why not get in touch to see how I can be of service.  Details of my astrological offerings can be found here and details of my spiritual life coaching through your birth chart can be found here. It would be an honour to be of service to you and walk with you on your transformational journey. 

With love and blessings, Beth