Mars Retrogrades from December 8, 2024, to February 23, 2025, from 6 degrees Leo to 17 degrees Cancer.
Firstly, what is a retrograde?
A retrograde is when a planet appears to turn backward in the sky. This happens due to an optical illusion caused by differences in orbit.
All the major planets (excluding the luminaries – the sun and the moon) go retrograde from time to time.
When planets go retrograde, their impact changes, and the recommended activities change.
What is a Mars Retrograde all about?
Mars is the planet of Anger, Aggression, Action, and Bravery and is ruled by the sign of Aries and the 1st House of Identity.
Mars represents how we express our anger, take action, and be brave and bold in our lives and make things happen.
Mars can be thought of as the Warrior.
It is considered to be a bold and domineering planet, but when in retrograde, it tends to bring less active and decisive energy.
So, when Mars goes retrograde, it heralds a time for slowing down, taking a rest, and refilling your cup.
During a Mars Retrograde, we may feel blocked, stuck, tired, apathetic, or shy.
A Mars retrograde will ask us to focus instead on the projects that remain unfinished. It is all about completion and rest. It is not recommended to start new projects or address issues where you need to be brave or bold during this time.
But sometimes, this can’t be avoided, so instead, be prepared for this lack of energy, create plans and routines, support yourself to focus and give yourself enough time to rest.
This is the time to book a holiday, get some extra rest, and make a list of all the things you need to finish.
By the time Mars turns direct, if we have taken the time to rest and complete outstanding tasks, we will feel fresh and free to start new and exciting projects that require a lot of focus and drive.
Mars Retrograde in Leo
Mars is retrograde in Leo from December 8th – 6th January 2025.
Like a cosmic spotlight on your creative expression—time to check if your business truly reflects your heart’s desires! Leo loves the drama, the spotlight, and the applause, but during this retrograde, it’s asking you to pause and ask yourself: “Is this really what I want, or am I just chasing external validation?”
Instead of just chasing big, bold moves for recognition, reflect on whether your actions align with your true goals and values. It’s about turning that fiery Leo energy inward to get clear on what you truly need so you can roar ahead when Mars finally moves direct again!
Here are a few ways to harness Mars retrograde in Leo for your business:
Reevaluate Creative Projects:
This is a powerful time to pause and reflect on ongoing or future creative endeavors. Look back at past projects or ideas you may have abandoned and see if there’s potential for revival or adjustment.
Rescue or Renew Relationships:
Whether it’s a partnership, a team member dynamic, or client relations, use this retrograde to reconsider how you relate to others in your business. Leo is heart-centred, so it’s an excellent time to ensure your relationships are heartfelt and loving.
Channel Energy for Internal Work:
During this period, you might feel bursts of frustration or a lack of forward momentum. Reflect on your motivations and passions and whether you’re on the right track with your long-term business goals.
Avoid Impulsivity:
Leo loves bold actions and public recognition, but you’re better off avoiding risky moves or flashy decisions that could backfire during the retrograde. Use this time to gather information and make adjustments for a more robust launch later.
Be patient with any setbacks, and remember that Mars will eventually move forward again, giving you the green light to proceed with renewed clarity and confidence.
Mars Retrograde in Cancer
Mars is Retrograde in Cancer from the 7th January-22nd February 2025 from 29-17 degrees Cancer.
Mars retrograde in Cancer turns the focus inward, inviting you to explore the emotional undercurrents shaping your business and personal drive. Cancer, the sign of home, nurturing, and deep emotional connections, asks: “Are you truly aligned with your inner needs, or are you running on empty trying to care for everything and everyone else?”
During this time, it’s less about charging forward and more about tending to your emotional foundations. Instead of pushing through challenges, honor the slow pace and allow yourself to retreat and realign. Mars retrograde in Cancer helps you pause and reconnect with what truly nurtures your soul and your business.
Here are a few soulful strategies to navigate this retrograde:
Reflect on Emotional Alignment
Cancer rules emotional authenticity. Ask yourself if your business feels aligned with your deeper emotional needs. Are you prioritizing work that feeds your soul or sacrificing too much of yourself? Use this time to tune in to your inner voice and recalibrate.
Tend to Your Foundations
Cancer governs home and family, making this a perfect time to strengthen your personal and business foundations. Revisit your workflows, systems, and boundaries to ensure they’re supporting—not draining—you.
Reevaluate Your Energy Output
Mars retrograde can highlight burnout or overextension. Reflect on where you’re investing your energy and whether it’s sustainable. Focus on self-care and nurturing activities to restore your vitality.
Reconnect with Your Intuition
Cancer’s watery energy is deeply intuitive. Trust your inner guidance to help you make decisions rather than relying solely on external advice or logic. Journaling, meditation, or quiet reflection can be powerful tools during this time.
Avoid Reactive Decisions
Cancer can bring up emotional sensitivity, and Mars retrograde may amplify frustrations. Take a step back before reacting to setbacks or conflicts, and focus on responding with compassion and clarity.
Embrace Rest and Replenishment
Instead of pushing forward, lean into rest and self-care. This retrograde is an opportunity to nurture yourself so you can reemerge with renewed energy and focus when Mars goes direct.
Mars retrograde in Cancer reminds you that your business thrives when you’re emotionally aligned and cared for. Use this time to prioritize what truly matters, nurture your inner world, and create a space where your creativity and ambitions can flourish.
Where is Mars Retrograde in your business chart?
In which part of your business is this retrograde activating?
Check out where it is in your chart when it retrogrades from 6 degrees Leo to 17 degrees Cancer , and take note of any other planets in your business chart around these degrees.
If you are unsure what the different houses represent, check out my FREE astrology basics course.
What might the position of Mars Retrograde in 2025 mean for your business?
In which part of your business should you complete outstanding tasks and projects and take some time out or at least slow down the pace?