We’re about to experience an epic and conflicting transit involving Mars, the planet of assertive energy and motivation, and Cancer, the sign of emotional sensitivity and intuition.
These two energies don’t naturally jive. In fact, they’re quite opposing forces – so when they come together, we can experience quite a few challenging emotions or situations. But preparing yourself for a transit such as this is one of the easiest ways to ensure that you make the most of it. And it’s coming your way on September 4th, 2024.
That’s why we’re here today to talk about Mars in Cancer, what it means for you, and how to sail through this transit with grace and poise.
What is Mars in Cancer?
Mars is the planet that rules over the Fire sign, Aries – the planet that kicks off the beginning of a new astrological year. Noting that, it’s easy to understand the motivating, inspiring, and sometimes aggressive energy of this planet: It wants to move, wants to act fast, and wants to get things done.
On the other hand, Cancer is a Water sign—sensitive, emotional, intuitive, and creative. One need only think of these elements themselves, Fire and Water, to understand how they might not mix well together.
Mars is all about action. Time to stop and smell the roses? Forget about it. Taking time to sit down with emotions and feelings? “No, thank you,” says Mars. Mars wants to act, to get things done, to make moves.
Yet, Cancer encourages us to soak in the world around us, to enjoy the sensations, and to lead with our hearts and not our heads. Cancer wants to feel its way through the world rather than make split-second decisions.
One thing that can happen is that the fiery, aggressive energy of Mars can trigger the sometimes crabby nature of Cancer, which would prefer to retreat to its shell over confronting an issue.
Mars says, “We’re going to deal with this right now,” breaking up the pleasant and domestic tendencies of Cancer energy.
One blessing here is that Mars’ energy isn’t quite as aggressive as it can be during this transit. The trick here is learning about the kind of energy you’re about to face and how to face it with grace and a good attitude.
What Does Mars in Cancer Look Like?
Mars is a planet of leadership and drive, whereas Cancer is a sign that connects to your deepest feelings. The best way to go about this transit is by connecting to your shadow, which makes itself known during oppositional transits such as these.
This balancing act will certainly feel tricky but try to remember that anyone who’s dangled on the trapeze has had to face the fear of falling first.
Mars in Cancer gives a sense of softness to that inner warrior of yours. Where your inner warrior wants to move head-first into any issue, this transit asks you to slow down and take your time. However, you may also become too soft under this transit if you’re not careful. It’s important to find the balance between going with the flow and standing up for yourself.
You might find yourself conceding to events or experiences you do not want to keep the energy calm and appeasing. But you must share your thoughts, feelings, needs, and ideas with others.
For example, you might say that it’s fine to skip the store trip tonight, even though you know you need toilet paper, lettuce, and milk. While it might feel easier to go with the flow now, you could find yourself feeling frustrated or slighted later on. So, remember compassion and kindness, and don’t be afraid to tell those around you what it is that you need.
Whether you’re feeling headstrong or malleable, the most important thing to remember during this time is to lead with love and kindness. Compassion – towards yourself and others – is your best friend right now.
You might feel frustrated, and you might not be sure how to express that frustration, but the one thing to remember is to infuse your words and actions with love at all times.
Mars is more about finding success than deep connection. On the opposite end of the spectrum, Cancer is concerned with personal relationships and connections. It’s important to try to bring these two energies together in a way that encourages compassion and understanding.
You might have a difficult time finding the balance between kindness and assertiveness. You might not know how to express your feelings in a peaceful, harmonious way right now. But if you make an effort to keep compassion alive in your interactions, you’ll experience much more healing and communication.
The trick here is the find the balance between being a doormat and a steamroller. Try not to take people down with your desires’ volume and intensity, but don’t let them take advantage of you either.
Mars in Cancer Can Help Heal
This is a time that might feel heated, emotional, or overwhelming during this transit. But if you can approach this transit with a sense of understanding and preparedness, you too can sail through Mars in Cancer and maybe even get a few things accomplished!
Focus on self-love, self-care, and compassion and kindness that extend to yourself and others. Wake up in the morning with a heart full of love and carry that love with you throughout the day.
Mars in Cancer can be a remarkably healing time if you learn to open your heart.
Keep track of all of the astrological transits happening this September with our astrology calendar!