Today is Monday, Jan. 16, 2012.. Today the Libra Moon squares the Capricorn Sun for the last quarter Moon. This waning Moon enters Scorpio at 11:33 am EST, on its way to the Aquarius New Moon in one week, on Jan. 23. That’s the same day Mars stations retrograde in Virgo for its all-Virgo retrograde, and it does not station direct until April 13.
This is one of the signature transits of 2012, interpreted for each of the 2012 annual edition sign reports (which are still available – just follow the link in the banner in the upper right corner of this page). Mars retrograde doesn’t quite have the familiarity and superstition attached to it that a Mercury retrograde does. That may be a relief, though Virgo is a sign ruled by Mercury – and this Mars retrograde lasts almost three months, not three weeks, not including any ‘shadow’ period, either. Mars is entering nearly three months of straight up (apparent) backwards motion.
So what are we in for? The general consensus seems to be a certain level of spiritual/mental/environmental (as in personal space, and inner landscape)/organizational housekeeping and healing. Where in your life this is strongest for you will vary depending on your own chart (could be your desire, or your self-esteem, or your sense of individuality, etc.). Regardless, the direction is inward. Retrograde transits point us within ourselves, to see what there is to learn, what there is to heal, and where we could stand to do some growing. Mars may be a planet of action, and Virgo the sign of service, but this transit is less about taking action to serve those around us, and more about taking action within our selves. By doing so, we indirectly serve our relationships. We’re not ‘fixing’ ourselves ‘for’ anyone, per se. Taking responsibility for our own healing and growth simply happens to support authentic, loving, adult relationships.