The ‘Most Intense’ Astrological Event Of The Year Is Here—And This Is What Your Sign Can Expect
You might still be reeling from the effects of Mercury retrograde, but the stars are sending a second whammy your way: Mars retrograde, which starts December 6 and continues until February 23, 2025. This retrograde is less notorious than Mercury retrograde, perhaps because it happens only once every two years, but it packs a punch. Here’s why: In astrology, Mars is the planet of action, drive, ambition, and sex drive. Consider it the planetary fire behind your workouts, goals, and bold dating moves.
When Mars moves backwards in the sky, it’s like that fire within is burning much more slowly than usual. At its best, Mars retrograde might bring tiredness, a lack of motivation, and a low libido. At its worst, unprocessed anger from the past could bubble up. This is when your mind rewinds to that old high school fight, or drama you had with your then-bestie. Past conflicts and passions re-emerge—like your exes unexpectedly sliding back into your DMs. Ultimately, this retrograde pushes you to reassess routines, passions, and drive, inspiring deep reinvention within your sex life, ambition, and fitness routines.
But that’s not to say this time won’t bring some positivity and opportunities for growth, too. This retrograde of Mars will come in two parts. The first half of the retrograde, happening in fire sign Leo from December 6 to January 5, comes with a dash of drama, affecting Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius the most. You will notice a deep desire to explore new flavors, colors, and vistas to begin rekindling your zest for life. The second part of the retrograde, happening in water sign Cancer from January 6 to February 23, shifts you to a more emotional tone, especially if you are an Aries, Cancer, Libra, or Capricorn. A deep sense of nostalgia takes over now, opening the door for you to truly process emotional material from the past.
Below are your Mars retrograde horoscopes—read your rising sign for the best accuracy, and your Sun sign for extra advice.
Your Horoscope for Mars Retrograde 2024-2025
Aries
Mars retrograde brings a slower sense of productivity and a deeper focus on creativity and pleasure. Early on, seek fresh inspiration—explore new hobbies, artistic pursuits, or places that ignite joy. As the retrograde progresses, home life becomes central, offering opportunities for heartfelt conversations and resolutions with your loved ones. This period encourages you to slow down, embrace reflection, and rediscover what fuels your passion and ambition, Aries. By the end of this phase, you’ll feel more aligned with what truly brings you happiness, and ready for a stronger, more balanced outlook.
Taurus
Old tensions with loved ones may resurface, urging you to reevaluate boundaries and self-expression, Taurus. Balancing work and life is critical right now, especially if stress has built up recently. This retrograde highlights the importance of finding your voice and speaking your truth with clarity. Then, during the second part of the retrograde, the focus shifts toward deeper introspection, pushing you to redefine how you communicate your needs. Trust that these shifts, while uncomfortable, will strengthen your connections and your confidence. By addressing these areas, you create a more stable and harmonious foundation for your future relationships.
Gemini
Mars retrograde challenges your communication skills, bringing misunderstandings or tension in discussions, especially around money or values. Staying patient and clear-headed will be essential, Gemini. As this phase progresses, you’re invited to reexamine your financial habits and reassess what you truly value, whether it’s material possessions or intangible joys. Use this period to create a sustainable budget and focus on aligning your spending with your core beliefs. By the end, you’ll have a clearer understanding of what matters most and a renewed sense of stability in your resources.
Cancer
Mars retrograde directs your attention toward financial and material realities, dear Cancer. Reassess your shared resources and reflect on agreements with those close to you. Unspoken frustrations or desires may surface, offering an opportunity for honest dialogue. On a deeper level, this retrograde is a call to reconnect with your body emotionally—let physical movement help you process the intensity of this time. Whether through disciplined exercise or mindful stretching, channeling energy into your body provides both clarity and empowerment. By the end of this phase, you’ll have a stronger foundation for navigating both financial and emotional landscapes.
Leo
This is your celestial cue to reset and recharge, Leo. This Mars retrograde asks you to reassess how you present yourself to the world. Early in the retrograde, you may feel the need to refine your approach to achieving your goals, considering not just ambition but authenticity. During the second part of the retrograde, you’ll seek solitude to reflect and recharge. Listen to your body—rest and introspection are essential now. By embracing stillness and nurturing your inner self, you’ll prepare for a profound reinvention. Once the spring arrives, you’ll emerge reinvigorated, with a clearer understanding of your purpose and how to channel your energy effectively.
Virgo
Mars retrograde signals a much-needed slowdown, Virgo, particularly if you’ve been overworking or overcommitting. Exhaustion is a sign to realign priorities, even if it means stepping back from social or professional obligations. Harness this time to nurture your well-being, honoring both your physical and emotional needs. Quiet reflection offers clarity, helping you differentiate between essential commitments and unnecessary distractions. This introspective period isn’t about withdrawal—it’s about renewal. By its end, you’ll feel recharged, with a refreshed sense of purpose and the energy to approach your goals more sustainably.
Libra
Mars retrograde shakes up social dynamics, revealing who your real friends are, Libra. Early on, secrets or misunderstandings among friends or business collaborators may arise, testing your patience and adaptability. The second half of this retrograde brings delays to cherished career projects, prompting you to think creatively about overcoming obstacles. Infuse stalled plans with fresh ideas and innovative approaches, restoring their momentum. By focusing on collaboration and authenticity, you’ll navigate this period with grace, strengthening meaningful connections while letting go of anything no longer aligned with your goals.
Scorpio
Mars retrograde in Leo calls for a reassessment of your professional aspirations, Scorpio. As outdated strategies fade, new approaches to success begin to emerge. This period may inspire you to dive into the art of learning—whether that’s a new skill or exploring fresh methods of operation, particularly in the retrograde’s second phase. A new class or mentorship could serve as the catalyst for a revamped career plan. Focus on expanding your knowledge, as doing so will create a tailored strategy for success. You can expect to feel an incredibly strong surge of energy in your career by springtime.
Sagittarius
Mars retrograde stirs your sense of freedom, Sagittarius, especially if recent months have left you feeling restricted. Frustrations around your need for fun or pleasure may lead to important, albeit uncomfortable, conversations with a partner or close friend. These discussions will center on setting boundaries and clarifying expectations within the relationship. While they may feel challenging, these conversations are essential for the long-term success of the bond. Use this time to speak your truth and realign with what truly matters, fostering a deeper connection with both yourself and others.
Capricorn
For you, Capricorn, Mars retrograde shines a light on your relationships, starting with any romantic ones. The first phase may involve revisiting shared resources, redefining boundaries, or reconsidering finances with a partner. As the retrograde progresses, you’ll turn your attention to friendships and business partnerships, reevaluating agreements and expectations. Conflict resolution and expressing desires may also come into play. By the retrograde’s conclusion, you’ll gain clarity about the overall balance and authenticity in your relationships, enabling you to create stronger, healthier dynamics moving forward.
Aquarius
Mars retrograde casts a spotlight on your key relationships, Aquarius. Whether it’s a new romantic connection or a business partnership, you’ll find yourself thinking about what you expect from others—and what they expect from you. During the second part of the retrograde, the focus shifts to practical matters: adapting to a new job, home, or life phase. Alternatively, you might also feel the need to revamp your wellness routine. This time is about realigning your life to match your evolving priorities. Reflect on how your lifestyle needs are changing and how to embrace this new phase with thoughtful intention. By the retrograde’s end, you’ll find a clearer sense of direction.
Pisces
Mars retrograde encourages you to reassess your daily routine, Pisces. You may feel the need to rethink how you spend your time and energy, as a desire for balance and wellness grows. This period pushes you to evaluate your current lifestyle, possibly recognizing that work or career has taken precedence over personal joy and fun. Embrace a more playful, creative approach during this retrograde, testing new ways to find balance while also feeling more alive. As you explore different routines, by late February, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the changes needed for a more fulfilling and holistic life.
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