Mars in Cancer 🦀 2023

artist: Isobelle Ouzman

Mar 25 – May 20, 2023

Mars: fiery warrior of the solar system, ruler of the body and its carnal urges. Mars channels fresh, invigorating energy into the body, like the first day of spring. We’re coming out of a pretty brutal Mars Retrograde in Gemini, so breathe a sigh of relief that this tricky little chapter is finally ending.

Mars Retrograde in Gemini put a major spotlight on communication, as well as the way in which we use our precious time and energy. The insights that bubbled up can’t be ignored. A lot of the insight came in the form of revelations about relationships. Some rearrangement was called for here, some adjustment to our circle of friends and lovers and co-workers. It’s been incredibly busy, anxiety has been running rampant. Mars in Cancer is really going to help us ground down and rejuvenate after such a stressful transit through Gemini. Our nervous systems are totally fried.

Mars Retrograde also meant major physical recalibration. Food, sleep, exercise, health – all of these and more were thrown off. Anything within us that was not properly healed resurfaced so clearly that we were forced to finally address it. I hope you can exit this transit with a greater understanding of what your mind and body need to feel healthy and stable on a daily basis.

In ancient Rome, Mars was often depicted nude to demonstrate his fearlessness. Behold Mars in Cancer, a warrior of utmost femininity, stark naked in the battlefield of love. Mars in a water sign promotes creativity, emotional release, and self-care. Cancer the crab is soft and nurturing, making us feel at home within and without. Mars in Cancer brings healing and understanding. Cancer is the mother from whom the guiding waters of the zodiac flow. She is a lighthouse, a map of the heart. Revel in your vivid inner world. Above all else, follow your intuition. Inhale the crab’s extraordinary empathy.

Mars shapes our drive and ambition. He outlines the motivating factor. With Mars in Cancer, we are motivated by a deep need for emotional security and stability. We will move through the world with radiance and caution, acutely sensitive to changes in our bodies or the surrounding environment. Expect to feel sweet and loving when you’re up, crabby and lethargic when you’re down. Cancer is a moody queen!

Cancer operates on a slower wavelength. Food and sleep are important. Our mood will entirely depend on whether or not we are rested and well-fed. In the body, Mars rules the intestines and digestive system. This is the perfect time to delve into gut health and nutrition to find out what your body needs. It is also wise to reflect on the relationship between the gut and intuition. It is not a coincidence that all of these things are connected to the archetype of women and the moon (ruler of Cancer).

Connect to your matrilineal roots. Take deep breaths. Mars in Cancer highlights the natural tension between the divine feminine and masculine. To all the womxn out there: you are fucking badasses and I hope my words empower you. Don’t let anyone mess with you.

Home • comfort • nourishment • divine feminine power • beauty • snuggles

Mar 30: Mars trine Saturn in Pisces + Venus conjunct Uranus in Taurus. Clear and grounding. Smooth and easy. As for Venus/Uranus: high vibes, communication and social energy flowing. Great for travel. Bizarre dreams; avoid screens.

May 15: Mars trine Neptune in Pisces. Mysterious forces. Strange, inexplicable phenomena. Reflective, sensitive. Pisces rules death, drugs, sleep, and endings. Someone might come to you in need, someone who needs to be heard or comforted. Communication borders on telepathy with mystical Neptune. Emotional catharsis. Deep healing of mind, body, and psyche. You might be utterly and completely exhausted. Immune system is really suppressed here. Take it VERY easy to prevent getting even more depleted.

If you were born with Mars in Cancer, this is your Mars return. To find your Mars sign, click here.