Mars Retrograde 2024-2025: How It Will Affect the Zodiac Signs

In this article, we will discuss the Mars retrograde in detail. First, I will explain the characteristics of Mars retrograde, its key dates, and its general effects, followed by its influence on the rising signs.

Mars is a planet that goes retrograde once every 2.5 years. Because it retrogrades rarely, its effects are quite significant for us, and the retrograde period will last about 2–2.5 months. Since it spans a lengthy period, I recommend carefully reading its general effects before diving into how it impacts your sign.

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We’re already familiar with Mercury retrogrades, which occur 3–4 times a year. Their effects are often subtler and manifest as minor disruptions in daily life. However, Mars retrograde is a more challenging process. On a side note, I also recommend reading my article on the effects of the Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius.

Key Dates for Mars Retrograde

Let’s start by identifying the critical dates to focus on during this retrograde, as they will be important for us. I’ll also mention past periods we should revisit to better understand this phase. Let’s get started.

Mars retrograde begins on December 6, 2024, and ends on February 26, 2025. It will start its retrograde motion at 6° Leo and end at 17° Cancer. Essentially, we can call this a Mars retrograde in Leo, as its time in Cancer will be much shorter. From December 6 to January 7, Mars will retrograde in Leo, while from January 7 to February 26, it will retrograde in Cancer. These dates will also take us back to past periods.

From October 4 to December 6, 2024, Mars transited between 6° Leo and 17° Cancer. I recommend reflecting on what happened in your life during this time. What themes emerged between October and December?

Looking ahead to January 3, 2025, Mars will form an opposition with Pluto. To better understand this energy, consider where you experienced power struggles, conflicts, or confrontations in your life. Did you file a lawsuit, have an accident, or undergo surgery? Reflect on these events between December 31 and January 5, as this Pluto-Mars opposition will be particularly intense.

Additionally, you can use May 21, 2023, as a reference date to make your own predictions. I also recommend reviewing your experiences from April 29 to June 3, 2023, when Mars was again transiting through Cancer and Leo. Similar events may occur, or you may need to revisit issues initiated during that time. This retrograde may bring a period of revisiting and resolving past matters.

Which Signs Will Be Most Affected?

Leo and Cancer will naturally be the most affected signs, as the retrograde occurs in these signs. Opposing signs Aquarius and Capricorn will also feel the impact strongly. Additionally, Aries and Scorpio, as signs ruled by Mars, should be particularly cautious. They may need to control their tempers, avoid rushing into new ventures, and exercise patience.

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What are Mars Retrograde Traits?

Mars retrograde can generally make us feel more irritable and tense. We may act hastily, wanting to complete tasks quickly, which could lead to mistakes. This impatience might also escalate our frustration, causing us to project our anger onto others and creating a conflict-prone atmosphere.

Since Mars is retrograding in Leo, it can bring ego clashes. Statements like “I know better,” “It has to be done my way,” or “I should take the lead” may become more common. We might feel a stronger urge to take on grander projects or make bold moves to stand out. However, the retrograde motion often brings delays or restrictions, serving as a lesson in patience and humility.

Mars rules Aries, a sign associated with impulsivity and initiating action. During this retrograde, this tendency might increase the risk of accidents. It’s important to avoid rushing into things, especially between December 6 and February 26. Use this period to focus on planning and revising instead of launching new ventures. Avoid finalizing or publishing projects; instead, address unfinished business and move cautiously.

Mars also governs sharp tools, so extra care is needed when using such objects during this time. If your birth chart highlights this retrograde, the risk of accidents might be higher. Similarly, elective surgeries should be avoided unless absolutely necessary, as this period is associated with an increased risk of blood loss.

Mars, as the ruler of Scorpio, can also affect sexuality during its retrograde. Issues such as low libido or gynecological problems may arise, particularly for women.

Avoid setting wedding dates between December 6 and February 26, as marriages initiated during this time could be marked by heightened conflict. Buying vehicles is also not advised, as cars purchased during this period may have problems or increased accident risks. If traveling, be mindful of speed, anger, and haste. Planning trips outside this timeframe is recommended.

How the Mars Retrograde Will Affect the Zodiac Signs

Let’s now dive into how Mars retrograde will influence your sign.

Aries

Dear Aries, you will experience Mars retrograde first in your 5th house and then in your 4th house. Considering these two houses, between December 6 and February 26, particular attention should be paid to your love life, communication with your children (if you have any), and investments. Avoid making new investments, especially in unfamiliar areas, as they might not be safe during this period. If you have a romantic partner, disagreements could arise, so it’s crucial to manage your temper.

Additionally, issues related to your home, such as repairs or renovations, may come up, and there could be communication problems with family members. Be cautious about accidents within the home, as Aries is among the signs most prone to them during this retrograde. If you haven’t listened to the general effects of Mars retrograde, I recommend going back to the beginning of the video for insights that might also provide advice regarding your love life.

Taurus

Dear Taurus, Mars retrograde will first take place in your 4th house and later move into your 3rd house. During this retrograde, pay close attention to communication problems or accidents at home. Renovations might be necessary, and the risk of domestic mishaps could increase. During Mars’s retrograde in Leo, which lasts until January 7, issues concerning family elders, such as health problems, surgeries, or communication difficulties, may slow you down.

When Mars retrogrades in your 3rd house, traffic accidents and communication breakdowns become significant concerns. If you are considering purchasing a car, as mentioned in the general retrograde overview, it’s better to postpone. Please revisit the general effects of Mars retrograde at the beginning of the video for detailed insights. Avoid long road trips during this period and practice patience while driving. Managing your emotions carefully will be essential during this time.

Gemini

Dear Gemini, you will experience Mars retrograde first in your 3rd house and later in your 2nd house. The 3rd house is particularly important, as it highlights risks of communication mishaps and accidents, especially on the road. If you haven’t listened to the general effects of Mars retrograde, I recommend revisiting the beginning of the video for details relevant to your situation. If you are planning any trips, try to reschedule them to a safer time. Additionally, drive cautiously and avoid speeding, as this period calls for calmness on the road.

When Mars retrogrades in your 2nd house in Cancer, it may cause delays or complications related to your finances. For instance, your salary might be paid late, or you could face disruptions due to job changes. Issues with selling property or other assets may arise, creating temporary challenges. Mars retrograde encourages caution and patience in financial matters.

Cancer

Dear Cancers, the Mars retrograde will directly affect you as it occurs in your sign. This period, lasting from December 6 to February 26, requires you to be cautious about self-expression. It’s essential to avoid letting your ego take over, and steering clear of attitudes like “I know best” will benefit you. Starting new projects or ventures during this time may not yield positive results, as unforeseen obstacles are likely to arise.

Health-related matters, including surgeries, are best postponed to a more favorable time. If you skipped the earlier part of the video where the general effects of Mars retrograde are explained, I strongly recommend revisiting it, as this retrograde is particularly significant for you. Relationships will be under stress during this period, especially those involving marriage, business partnerships, or professional advisors. Arguments or tensions with these individuals may prove challenging.

Leo

Dear Leos, Mars retrograde will occur in your sign and then shift to your 12th house as it transitions into Cancer. This is a crucial time for you, especially in the areas of relationships and communication. You may encounter misunderstandings or obstacles in expressing yourself, which could lead others to perceive you as overly self-centered. Avoid statements or actions that suggest, “I know and can do everything.”

Additionally, starting new projects during this retrograde, from December 6 to February 26, is not advisable. Instead, focus on completing existing tasks. Health-related concerns or elective surgeries, especially cosmetic ones, should ideally be avoided during this period. When Mars retrogrades into Cancer, you might experience a deeper, internal struggle, questioning your choices and actions. This could lead to feelings of frustration and self-criticism. Engaging in physical activities like martial arts or boxing may help release pent-up energy and reduce stress.

Virgo

Dear Virgos, Mars retrograde will first take place in your 12th house and later move to your 11th house. This phase may stir up your inner world, leaving you feeling anxious or irritable without an apparent cause. You might find yourself reflecting deeply and turning critical eyes on your own actions, asking questions like, “Why am I like this?” or “Why do I keep making mistakes?”

It’s important to focus on self-soothing practices such as meditation or channeling your energy into physical activities like martial arts. You might also feel the urge to evaluate your social circle and eliminate certain individuals from your life. In the 11th house phase, your long-term dreams and aspirations may encounter delays or obstacles, leading to reevaluation. Use this period to reassess and refine your plans for the future.

Libra

Dear Libras, Mars retrograde will begin in your 11th house and move into your 10th house, making this a highly impactful period for you. If you haven’t yet watched the general Mars retrograde effects discussed at the beginning of the video, I encourage you to do so.

This retrograde, active from December 6 to February 26, may bring tensions in your social circle. You might discover the true nature of some people, leading to disappointment. Additionally, disagreements and conflicts in group settings could arise. On the career front, delays or obstacles may surface, and conflicts with superiors or authority figures might strain your professional relationships.

If you’re married, you may also experience tension or arguments with your spouse’s family during this time. Navigating these challenges with patience and care will be essential.

Scorpio

Dear Scorpios,

Mars retrograde is particularly significant for you since Mars is your ruling planet. Additionally, its opposition to Pluto will affect the 4th and 10th houses in your chart. Mark January 3rd as an especially important date.

Let’s briefly review its impact, but first, if you haven’t listened to the general overview at the beginning of the video, I highly recommend going back and paying attention to that segment.

If you’re working, your career and public status will be focal points during this period. You may feel a desire to make changes, but obstacles or tensions, such as conflicts with your boss or authority figures (e.g., a father figure or mentor), are likely. Even if you’re not employed, these tensions may arise with anyone you regard as an authority in your life. Similarly, challenges with in-laws may surface if you’re married, requiring extra patience and diplomacy.

For those planning to apply for education programs, visas, or passports, or if you’re arranging long-distance travel, the period between December 6th and February 26th is not favorable. Delays and complications may arise, so it’s wise to schedule such activities outside this window.

Sagittarius

Dear Sagittarius,

Mars retrograde will activate your 9th and 8th houses between December 6th and February 26th. If you’re dealing with education, visa applications, renewing licenses, or initiating legal proceedings, delays are likely during this time. Likewise, this isn’t an ideal time for planning overseas trips, as potential setbacks could lead to frustrations.

When the retrograde shifts to Cancer on January 7th, avoid taking on new loans or financial obligations. Instead, focus on paying off existing debts. The 8th house also relates to surgeries; if a procedure is not urgent or scheduled by your doctor, it’s best to delay it due to potential complications linked to Mars’ influence on sharp instruments and blood flow during its retrograde.

Capricorn

Dear Capricorn,

This Mars retrograde is especially important for you since Mars is exalted in your sign, amplifying its influence. If you skipped the general overview, I strongly advise revisiting it.

The retrograde will initially affect your 8th house in Leo and then move into your 7th house in Cancer starting January 7th. Avoid taking on new financial obligations during this time; instead, focus on clearing existing debts. If you’re considering surgery, try to avoid scheduling it during this period due to heightened risks of complications.

When Mars enters your 7th house, your relationships—whether with a spouse, partner, or business associate—will demand extra care. Pay close attention to your communication style to avoid unnecessary conflicts. This period isn’t ideal for relocations, as unforeseen issues may arise.

Aquarius

Dear Aquarius,

Mars retrograde will impact your 7th and 6th houses between December 6th and February 26th. Partnerships and close relationships will experience tension, with the possibility of ego clashes or arguments. This period also isn’t favorable for moving homes, as logistical hurdles may arise.

As the retrograde moves into your 6th house, be cautious about accidents, particularly at work or during exercise. Consider slowing down your routines to avoid injuries. If you’re employed, conflicts with colleagues may surface, requiring patience and tact.

Pisces

Dear Pisces,

Mars retrograde will influence your 6th and 5th houses. In the 6th house, focus on maintaining your daily routines and health. Avoid overexertion during exercise, as this period increases the risk of accidents. Work-related stress or disputes with colleagues may also arise.

When Mars shifts into your 5th house, pay attention to matters related to love, children, or creative projects. Avoid starting new endeavors in these areas as the timing isn’t ideal. Speculative investments should also be approached with caution, as losses are more likely during this period.