Astrocast #1
Saturday: January 4th – Mars Retrograde Opposition Pluto
When Mars, the planet of action, drive, and willpower, moves into retrograde and forms an opposition to Pluto, the planet of transformation, power, and the subconscious, the cosmos creates a powerful energetic tension. This transit is a time of deep introspection, intense emotions, and transformative breakthroughs. It invites us to confront our inner shadows, reassess our goals, and channel our energy into meaningful change.
Astrological Influence
Mars retrograde can make it difficult to express your willpower outwardly, while Pluto’s influence brings buried emotions and power struggles to the surface. This transit can highlight issues of control, manipulation, and dominance, both in relationships and within yourself. Pluto’s energy amplifies emotions, making this a time of deep reflection, catharsis, and emotional release. While challenging, this transit offers an opportunity for profound personal growth and transformation if you’re willing to face your shadows. Mars retrograde slows down forward momentum, encouraging you to reassess your ambitions and redirect your energy toward what truly matters.
Magickal Influence
From a magickal perspective, Mars retrograde opposite Pluto is a potent time for shadow work, banishing, and transformative rituals. The tension between Mars’ assertive energy and Pluto’s deep power creates an ideal environment for confronting fears, releasing old patterns, and reclaiming your personal power.
Key Magickal Energies of This Transit:
★ Shadow Work: Dive into your subconscious to confront fears, insecurities, and limiting beliefs.
★ Reclaiming Power: Work on breaking free from toxic patterns or relationships that drain your energy.
★ Banishing and Releasing: Use this time to let go of what no longer serves you, whether it’s habits, emotions, or external influences.
★ Transformation: Embrace rituals that focus on rebirth, renewal, and stepping into your true power.
★ Protection: Strengthen your energetic boundaries to guard against manipulation or power struggles.
Magickal Practices Suitable for This Event
To align with the intense and transformative energies of Mars retrograde opposite Pluto, consider incorporating the following magickal practices into your spiritual work:
1. Shadow Work Rituals
☆ Create a sacred space where you feel safe to explore your inner shadows.
☆ Write down fears, insecurities, or old wounds that are surfacing during this time. Burn the paper safely as an act of release and transformation.
☆ Meditate with obsidian or smoky quartz to access and heal deep subconscious patterns.
2. Banishing and Releasing Spells
☆ Perform a banishing ritual to remove toxic influences, habits, or relationships from your life.
☆ Use black candles, salt, and protective herbs like rosemary or sage in your spellwork.
☆ Visualize yourself cutting energetic cords with anything or anyone that drains your power.
3. Reclaiming Power Rituals
☆ Work with red or black candles to symbolize strength and empowerment.
☆ Use affirmations or mantras to reclaim your personal power, such as: “I stand in my truth and own my strength.”
☆ Incorporate tiger’s eye or garnet into your rituals to boost confidence and courage.
4. Protection Magick
☆ Create a protective ward around your home or sacred space using salt, black tourmaline, or iron.
☆ Perform a shielding meditation where you visualize a protective barrier of light surrounding you.
☆ Craft a protection charm or talisman to carry with you during this intense time.
5. Transformative Spellwork
☆ Use the energy of this transit to focus on rebirth and renewal. Write down what you want to release and what you want to manifest in its place.
☆ Work with symbols of transformation, such as the phoenix or the serpent, in your rituals.
☆ Perform fire magick by safely burning items that represent the old you, allowing the ashes to symbolize your rebirth.
6. Grounding Practices
☆ With Mars retrograde slowing things down, grounding is essential to stay centered. Spend time in nature, work with grounding stones like hematite or black onyx, or practice grounding meditations.
☆ Use earthy scents like patchouli or cedarwood to anchor your energy.
Mars retrograde opposite Pluto is a powerful cosmic event that challenges us to confront our inner shadows, release what no longer serves us, and step into our true power. While the energy of this transit can feel intense and even overwhelming, it offers a profound opportunity for transformation and growth.
