Mars is the planet of action, willpower, and combativeness, but what happens when it figuratively spins out of control? Will this chaotic phase bring you good or bad luck? Whatever happens, you’ll need to buckle up because this fast-moving planet symbolizes action, and during its retrograde, certain blockages and delays are likely to arise 😮. With this in mind, it’s advised not to undertake any new tasks during these periods. In 2025, Mars retrograde is composed of 2 phases; the first in Leo (December 6, 2024 - January 6, 2025) and the second in Cancer (January 7, 2025 - February 25, 2025).
Feeling that creeping fatigue? That urge to hit pause on life and hibernate until spring? It's no coincidence. From December 6, 2024, to February 25, 2025, Mars—the fiery inner warrior that fuels your drive and ambition—enters retrograde. And let me tell you, it’s going to shake things up.
But don’t panic. This isn’t cosmic punishment—it’s an invitation to slow down, regroup, and realign with your true self. Let’s break down the two powerful phases of this retrograde and how you can harness them to transform not just your goals but your entire approach to life.
Mars in Leo begins with the big, uncomfortable question: “Why are you chasing that promotion, relationship, or project that’s draining you more than it fulfills you?” Ouch, we know.
In the sign of Leo, Mars demands a reality check. Are you living your dream, or the one sold to you by society, social media, or outdated expectations? Leo retrograde energy empowers you to embrace your inner lion, rediscover your unique spark, and redefine success on YOUR terms—not anyone else’s.
Retrograde Planets Guide 2025
Discover how each retrograde will influence your path in 2025. With this guide, learn to use retrograde planets to strengthen your personal journey. ⚡
Download your complete guide 👇After challenging your outer motivations in Phase 1, Mars shifts into Cancer, turning the spotlight inward. Welcome to your emotional deep dive. Cancer’s nurturing and protective energy encourages you to step back from the noise and reconnect with your inner world—your feelings, your boundaries, and your need for security.
This phase is all about emotional self-care, nurturing your close relationships, and finding strength in vulnerability. Even the fiercest warriors need rest and a safe space to recharge.
✨ Astro Bonus: Venus in Aquarius joins the partyHere’s some good news: During this retrograde, Venus enters Aquarius, inviting more freedom and authenticity into our relationships. While Mars pushes us to look inward, Venus nudges us toward radical honesty—especially with ourselves and others. This cosmic combo is all about letting go of surface-level connections and leaning into relationships that bring real, meaningful joy. |
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Mars Retrograde may push you to slow down, but there’s a reason for it. This is your cosmic GPS recalculating your route, aligning you with your truest desires and values. By spring 2025, when Mars moves direct, you’ll feel more aligned, focused, and ready to act on YOUR terms.
Forget chasing illusions. Retrograde energy asks you to stop, breathe, and realize that your star isn’t out there—it’s already shining within you.
Remember: Slowing down is not failure—it’s a form of growth. This retrograde isn’t about setbacks, but about pausing to recalibrate. It’s a chance to release what no longer serves you and realign with your truest desires.
By spring 2025, when Mars goes direct, you’ll be clearer, more aligned, and ready to act with purpose. Use this retrograde as an opportunity to reclaim your power, strengthen your foundation, and move forward authentically.
>>> Find out: When is Saturn retrograde?
Retrograde Planets Guide 2025
Discover how each retrograde will influence your path in 2025. With this guide, learn to use retrograde planets to strengthen your personal journey. ⚡
Download your complete guide 👇| Don’t Do This | Why You Should Avoid It |
|---|---|
| Act on impulse | Retrogrades are a time for reflection, not hasty decisions. Acting without thinking may lead to regrets later. |
| Start major projects | New ventures initiated during this time might face delays, obstacles, or lack of momentum. Instead, revisit and refine existing plans. |
| Make drastic life changes | Big decisions like quitting a job, ending a relationship, or moving can feel tempting but may not be grounded in clarity during retrograde chaos. |
| Ignore your emotions | Mars retrograde, especially during its time in Cancer, highlights emotional and internal needs. Suppressing feelings could lead to burnout or tension. |
| Pursue aggressive confrontations | The retrograde energy can heighten frustrations. Confrontations may escalate unnecessarily, causing more harm than good. |
| Rush to meet deadlines | Mars retrogrades often slow things down. Pushing too hard could lead to mistakes or exhaustion. Take your time and aim for sustainable progress. |
Pro Tip: Use this period to reflect, revise, and reconnect with your deeper motivations rather than forcing results. Slowing down isn’t failure—it’s preparation for meaningful progress once Mars goes direct!
Scroll through to your zodiac sign to find out how Mars retrograde affects you - Get ready and discover the effects of other planets in retrograde.
Aries' spirit of initiative and conquest will be multiplied tenfold, but won’t be used in the right way. If these natives feel overworked, they will become aggressive.
Article presented by
Susan Taylor
Editor in Chief and Astrologist for MyAstroMag - I’ve always been completely fascinated by the world of Astrology and horoscopes. Writing for you and forecasting my exclusive predictions are my main passions.
You know Mercury retrograde—that time when the universe seems to glitch? 😱 From July 19 to August 11, 2025, Mercury takes center stage by retrograding in the sign of Leo. Let’s be real: when communication meets ego, sparks can fly! But don’t worry—I’ve got all the tips you need to survive this dramatic cosmic moment. Mark your calendars: from July 19 to August 11, 2025, the cosmic show is on! 🦁✨
Get ready for the astrological show of the summer! Saturn—the planet of “nothing comes easy” and life lessons—is going into reverse for four and a half months! And this isn’t your average retrograde: we’re getting a double feature with a scene change halfway through. From July 14 to September 1, Saturn is in Aries (the go-getter), then from September 2 to November 28, it shifts into Pisces (the dreamer). It’s like going from a CrossFit class to a meditation session. Your summer’s shaping up to be a workout in self-reflection! Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.
From July 5 to December 10, 2025, hold on tight—Neptune’s retrograde is a time of awakening... or deep upheaval and instability. It’s time to face reality—no more illusions. But in the end, it’s liberating!
The planet of love isn’t so gentle during its retrograde phase. Love, harmony, and even your finances will be at the forefront of your thoughts. Should you pay off your debts or let go of a relationship? How will you navigate Venus retrograde? What impact will it have on your zodiac sign? I’ll reveal everything about Venus retrograde, a crucial period for our love lives...
If you’ve ever delved into the world of astrology, then you'll know that the term retrograde describes a backward planetary motion that has a reputation for turning things upside down. This trajectory can do either of two things; it can make everything fall into place or, in the worst-case scenario, it can make everything fall apart 🪐. With its influences being so different, it's crucial to know that dates of when each planet is in its retrograde phase in 2025. Susan Taylor, tells us how this phenomenon impacts your life, gives you the important dates, and reveals her tips to get through the ordeal.
Uranus has a long retrograde period of more than 150 days, and in 2025, it will occur from August 29, 2025, to January 27, 2026, in Taurus. During this motion, significant changes can take place on a collective level, while on an individual level, Uranus invites us to reflect on our need for freedom and question our relationships with others. This phase encourages us to seek stability and evaluate how we adapt to change, but its effects vary depending on the zodiac sign it influences. According to astrologer Susan Taylor, this retrograde will bring unique lessons and opportunities for growth for each zodiac sign.
Jupiter's retrograde phase lasts for about four months and occurs once a year, creating the illusion from Earth that the planet is moving backward. This celestial motion alters Jupiter’s external functions, prompting a period of reflection, reassessment, and personal growth 😲. In 2025, Jupiter will retrograde from November 12, 2025, to March 11, 2026, in Cancer, encouraging us to revisit our roots, strengthen emotional bonds, and reevaluate our long-term goals. Discover how this transformative phase will impact your zodiac sign and how you can navigate its effects with clarity and purpose.
From May 3 to October 12, 2025, Pluto retrograde is set to bring about significant transformations 🤯. As the planet of deep instinct and change, Pluto’s retrograde motion encourages us to confront our fears and explore the darker sides of our personalities. This phase offers an opportunity for introspection, allowing us to revisit past decisions and use the lessons learned to shape a better future. According to astrologer Susan Taylor, this retrograde also highlights the need for personal growth and the reassessment of power dynamics. Find out how your zodiac sign will be impacted during this transformative period.
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