Mars retrograde is a slower, introspective period that happens about every two years. Unlike Mercury retrograde, which messes with schedules and communication, Mars retrograde hits deeper—it asks us to look at how we take action, express anger, and pursue what we want. Instead of pushing forward, this is the time to pause, reflect, and recalibrate your energy.
This cycle begins with Mars stationing retrograde in Leo on December 6th, 2024 before it dips back into Cancer on January 6, 2025, and stations direct on February 23, 2025. With Mars retrograde, it’s less about what you’re doing and more about why you’re doing it.
The Astronomy of Mars Retrograde
Mars retrograde happens approximately every 26 months, lasting for about 2–2.5 months each time. Unlike faster-moving planets like Mercury, Mars retrogrades are less frequent but more impactful because Mars governs action, energy, and motivation—the parts of us that propel forward movement.
Astronomically, retrograde motion occurs when Mars, Earth, and the Sun align in such a way that Mars appears to move backward in the sky. While this is an optical illusion, its effects can feel very real here on Earth, especially in how we take action, express anger, and pursue our desires.
The halfway point of a Mars retrograde occurs when the red planet aligns directly with the Sun, a moment known as Cazimi. In ancient astrology, this was considered when the planet had the king’s ear, a time of heightened clarity and influence. It’s the resolution point of the frustration often stirred by a retrograde. When Mars is within 17 minutes of the Sun, its energy is most purely expressed. This moment also marks Mars’ transition from being an evening star to a morning star, signaling a shift in his activity.
Mars Retrograde: An Energetic Time-Out
Mars retrograde is a time to slow down, reassess, and redirect energy. Actions that typically come easily—assertiveness, initiative, and decision-making—may feel harder to access. This period often highlights areas where we’ve been pushing too hard, acting impulsively, or avoiding deeper truths about what drives us.
Here’s what you might notice during Mars retrograde:
- Slower progress: Projects and plans could feel delayed or stalled.
- Frustration or irritability: When things don’t go as planned, tempers may flare, or you may feel drained.
- Reflection on goals: It’s a time to review your intentions and motivations.
- Past conflicts resurfacing: Old frustrations, unresolved arguments, or regrets may come back for closure.
For people with Mars retrograde in their natal chart, this period may feel familiar, even empowering. You’re used to processing energy internally, so Mars retrograde aligns with your natural rhythm, offering clarity and even a sense of ease while others may struggle.
A Tale of Two Retrogrades: Leo + Cancer
This particular Mars Retrograde is unique as it will occur in two different signs. When a retrograde straddles two signs, it can almost feel like two different events. The first part in Leo will be the easier time. From December 6th – January 6th, Mars will move through fixed fire. In this sign Mars becomes more concerned with where he finds purpose. He is seeking his motivation and creative fire. He needs to feel appreciated in order to inspire the group and take action. When Mars is retrograde in this sign, he can find his self-confidence wavering. It can be a good time to pull out old creative projects from the closet or tap into leadership roles that were put on the shelf. It’s also a good time to recenter yourself for internal validation opposed to external accolades.
The majority of this retrograde of 2024/2025 will occur in Cancer from January 6th – February 23rd. This is the sign of Mars’ detriment. A weak Mars can make people act out versus respond. The crab moves sideways and so emotions can come across as passive aggressive opposed to assertive. It can also be a time when there is a strong need to circle the wagons and protect what you hold dear. Emotional safety can be a top motivator during a Mars retrograde in Cancer. Be aware of what stirs your frustration and instead practice healthy boundaries. Surround yourself with those whom are your chosen family.
How to Work With Mars Retrograde in Any Sign
Mars retrograde isn’t about charging forward—it’s about stepping back to reassess. Here are some practical ways to work with this energy:
- Pause Before Acting: Reflect on your motivations before taking action. This is a time for intentional moves, not impulsive ones.
- Revisit Old Projects: Return to unfinished tasks and reassess their viability. Is it worth continuing, or should you let it go? This is not the time to start anything new, but instead finish what you’ve put on the back burner.
- Practice Patience: Progress may slow down, but it’s an opportunity to refine your approach and build a stronger foundation.
- Engage in Restorative Activities: Opt for yoga, meditation, or journaling to process emotions and recharge.
- Channel Frustration Constructively: If anger arises, try physical outlets like exercise or creative projects to release pent-up energy.
A Final Note on Mars Retrograde
While Mars retrograde can feel frustrating at times, it’s a powerful opportunity to recalibrate your energy, motives, and direction. Think of it as a cosmic timeout—a chance to pull back, reflect, and realign with your true desires before moving forward again.
Whether you’re reviewing your creative passions under Mars in Leo or navigating emotional terrain with Mars in Cancer, this retrograde cycle invites you to deepen your understanding of what drives you and how you channel your energy into the world.
Use this time wisely, and when Mars stations direct in February 2025, you’ll be ready to take intentional, inspired action. Tell me in the comments how Mars retrograde manifests for you!