Mars Retrograde Survival Guide: Love, Drama, and Keeping It Together
What the Heck is Mars Retrograde, and How to Actually Survive It?
Mars retrograde—it’s like the universe’s way of putting us all on pause while it asks, “Are you really sure about this?” If you’ve been feeling stuck, frustrated, or like you’re walking through quicksand instead of making progress, you’re not alone. This astrological event is a game-changer, but it doesn’t have to ruin your plans.
So, what’s going on? And more importantly, how can you survive it without losing your mind? Let’s break it all down in plain, no-fluff terms.
What Is Mars Retrograde?
Mars is the planet of action, drive, and ambition—it’s the cosmic drill sergeant shouting, “Let’s go!” But when Mars goes retrograde (about every two years), that fiery energy slows waaaaay down. It’s not a punishment, but it is a sign to stop, rethink, and figure out if you’re putting your energy where it matters.
Think of Mars retrograde as your personal timeout to recalibrate. Instead of charging forward, it’s about reflecting and tying up loose ends.
When Is It Happening?
Mars retrograde started on December 6, 2024, in Leo, shifted into Cancer on January 6, 2025, and ends on February 23, 2025. During this time, expect delays, re-dos, and a cosmic push to slow down and reassess.
Wait, Is This Like Mercury Retrograde?
Not exactly. Here’s the difference:
- Mercury Retrograde: Mercury rules communication, tech, and travel, so it’s the one that makes your texts vanish, your laptop crash, and your travel plans go sideways.
- Mars Retrograde: Mars is about action and ambition. When it’s retrograde, your energy feels off, progress slows, and tempers flare more easily.
In short: Mercury retrograde messes with your inbox. Mars retrograde messes with your mojo.
What Does This Mean for Your Element?
🔥 Fire Signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius)
Fire signs thrive on momentum, so Mars retrograde can feel like someone poured water on your flame.
- What You’ll Notice: Frustration, impatience, and stalled plans.
- How to Survive: Lean into creative outlets to channel your energy. Take a pause before jumping into conflicts.
🌍 Earth Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn)
Earth signs love stability and progress, but Mars retrograde may leave you feeling stuck in place.
- What You’ll Notice: Delays in projects or long-term goals.
- How to Survive: Break big tasks into smaller steps and focus on what’s manageable. Use this time to refine your plans.
💨 Air Signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius)
Air signs rely on communication and quick thinking, but Mars retrograde can make things feel foggy or tense.
- What You’ll Notice: Miscommunications, canceled plans, and frustration in relationships.
- How to Survive: Slow down and think before reacting. Revisit old ideas rather than starting new ones.
🌊 Water Signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces)
Water signs are intuitive and emotional, but Mars retrograde in Cancer can heighten those feelings even more.
- What You’ll Notice: Emotional overwhelm and a tendency to dwell on the past.
- How to Survive: Prioritize self-care and set boundaries. Activities like journaling or meditation can help you process your feelings.
How to Make the Most of Mars Retrograde
- Pause and ReflectT this isn’t the time to push forward at all costs. Instead, reassess your goals and ask yourself if you’re on the right path.
- Channel Your Energy Wisely Feeling restless? Clean out your space, start a creative project, or revisit old hobbies.
- Pick Your BattlesMars rules conflict, so tempers can run high. Before diving into an argument, ask yourself if it’s worth the energy.
- Focus on Unfinished BusinessUse this retrograde to revisit old projects and tie up loose ends. It’s the perfect time to finish what you started.
- Rest and Recharge Feeling unmotivated? Lean into it. Rest isn’t a waste of time; it’s a chance to recharge for when Mars goes direct.
A Personal Experience
As a professional tarot reader with over 20 years of experience, I’ve navigated my fair share of planetary retrogrades. During a previous Mars retrograde, I noticed a significant slowdown in my creative projects, particularly in the development of my tarot deck, Simplicity Tarot. Instead of pushing through the resistance, I took it as an opportunity to reflect on my design choices and the deck’s overall direction. This period of reassessment allowed me to make meaningful improvements, resulting in a more refined and intuitive tool for readers worldwide.
Final Thoughts
Mars retrograde isn’t here to ruin your life—it’s here to give you a cosmic timeout to reflect and recalibrate. Sure, it’s frustrating when things don’t move as fast as you’d like, but it’s also an opportunity to step back and make sure you’re putting your energy where it matters most.
Ready to Transform Your Love Life?
Mars retrograde doesn’t have to feel like a roadblock in your love life. Instead, it’s an opportunity to pause, reflect, and reset. If you’re feeling stuck, uncertain, or ready for answers, my Love Tarot Readings can help guide you.
And if you’re looking to start 2025 with clarity, check out my 2025 New Year’s Tarot Reading—perfect for uncovering what’s ahead in love, career, and life.
Book your session today at TarotByEmilie.com and let’s turn this retrograde energy into transformation. You’ve got this!
Emilie Muñiz, creator of Simplicity Tarot and a Brooklyn native, has been passionate about tarot since her teens, with over two decades of professional experience. Besides tarot, she practices and teaches various divination methods including Puerto Rican-style coffee cup readings, oracle cards, and Espiritismo. Her latest creation, Simplicity Lenormand, aims to demystify the Lenormand system, making it accessible and enjoyable for all learning levels.
Be the first to comment!