Cafe Astrology......In Cancer for the most part, the sign of the crab, we tend to become more pensive and cautious, taking our time to reach our goals. If we push ahead impulsively anyhow, we run into problems, obstacles, and frustrations. Cancer rules our inner foundations as well as outer ones--our homes, domestic affairs, and relationships with family. As such, we may need to re-assess our approach to our home lives. Circumstances are likely to be such that we feel forced to do so. We are apt to feel some frustration or anxiety about our basic sense of comfort and security--our roots-- and with regards to the development of our domestic affairs. Projects may not get off the ground as planned, perhaps due to hesitation, caution, and fear of taking risks. For some of the retrograde period, Mars is retrograde in Gemini, stalling intellectual and mental initiatives.
Health issues may be a factor (especially in areas ruled by Cancer and Gemini--the lungs and stomach), and accidents a possibility throughout the Mars retrograde period. Avoid pushing matters or throwing yourself into something new.
Motives may be hard to discern for others' actions. As we consider and re-consider our actions and initiatives, we can be more indecisive than usual. Sexuality is stronger and more intense, but its outward expression may be less spontaneous than usual.
Any planet that is retrograde is an especially strong and dominant energy in our lives during the retrograde period. Because it is closest to the earth during the cycle, the energy of the planet, while dominant, is more challenging to harness in a controlled, conscious manner. This can lead to irrational behaviors and reactions, particularly since Mars rules action and initiative. Wherever you find Mars transiting your chart during the retrograde period, you could be especially preoccupied with the affairs associated with that house and/or planet. Some of us experience a lessening of interest, initiative, and enthusiasm in these areas of life during the retrograde cycle, particularly as Mars begins to slow down (in October 2007). While Mars is "moving backwards" (from November 15/07 to January 30/08), there could be some backtracking in these areas, perhaps even some losses. It's a period of review. Working on long-term projects has better results than entirely new projects.