January, 2025 Astrology News + Mars Continues Retrograde into Gemini
Jyotisha (Vedic Astrology)
Firstly, I want to wish all of my readers a happy and fulfilling New Year! The year 2025 is poised to bring significant shifts, and staying attuned to astrology can serve as a powerful tool for navigating these changes with clarity and intention. Astrology provides us with a unique lens to understand the energies at play, offering guidance to harness them in ways that support our personal growth and collective evolution.
As we embrace this fresh beginning, remember that you are infinitely powerful. Your thoughts, actions, and intentions create ripples that extend far beyond what you can see, influencing the world in ways both profound and subtle. Trust in your inner wisdom and let your higher self lead the way.
In a world that often prioritizes conformity, the most revolutionary act is to think for yourself, to ask questions, and to choose a path aligned with truth and integrity—even if it differs from what the majority is doing. Each decision rooted in authenticity and love contributes to the collective transformation we are all a part of.
Let this year be a reminder that the choices you make, no matter how small, have the power to inspire change. With courage and intention, may we all strive to create a brighter, more harmonious future together.
Here’s to a year filled with growth, purpose, and radiant possibilities! 🌟
Mercury, Mars, Sun, and Venus - Cosmic Shifts from January to February 2025
The first few months of 2025 bring significant astrological shifts, inviting both challenges and opportunities for growth. The celestial movements involving Mercury, Mars, the Sun, and Venus offer a rich landscape of energy. With notable transits, retrogrades, and conjunctions, it's a time of mental expansion, introspection, and a shift toward balancing our emotional and intellectual realms. Let’s explore these key astrological events in detail:
Mercury in Sagittarius: Expansive Minds and Stimulating Conversations (1/4/25 - 1/24/25)
When Mercury, the planet of communication, intellect, and analysis, transits into Sagittarius on January 4, 2025, expect a noticeable shift in mental energy. Sagittarius is a fire sign ruled by Jupiter, known for its expansive, adventurous, and philosophical qualities. This sign encourages exploration, big ideas, and a thirst for knowledge.
However, Sagittarius can overwhelm Mercury's detail-oriented and analytical nature. While Mercury typically focuses on the small details, Sagittarius tends to focus on the big picture. As a result, this placement may amplify different communication styles—ideas might become larger-than-life, and small details can get blown out of proportion. Be mindful of over-exaggeration, giving excessive information when communicating, or giving unsolicited advice.
On the positive side, this transit sparks curiosity and a desire for intellectual adventure. It’s a great time for traveling, engaging in philosophical discussions, and expanding your horizons through education or spiritual exploration. A thirst for freedom and broader perspectives can awaken, so it’s a great time for new ideas and experiences.
However, with Mercury's focus on bigger concepts during this time, there may be a tendency to gloss over smaller but important details, so just be sure to go back and double check things to make sure you haven’t missed anything of importance.
Full Moon in Punarvasu in Gemini 1/13/25 at 3:26 PM
This Full Moon is within 3° of Mars Retrograde in Cancer and is opposed Mercury in Sagittarius.
The Full Moon in Punarvasu Nakshatra in Gemini illuminates themes of renewal, adaptability, and finding emotional stability amidst chaos. Punarvasu, ruled by Jupiter, carries a deeply nurturing and restorative energy, offering an opportunity to reset and refocus after periods of turbulence. However, this Full Moon’s proximity (within 3°) to Mars Retrograde in Cancer intensifies emotional sensitivity and internal frustrations, potentially triggering impulsive reactions or conflicts rooted in unresolved emotional patterns.
Keep an eye out for the Full Moon Post this month.
Sun in Capricorn: A Diminished Force and Mars Retrograde Influence (1/13/25 - 1/20/25)
On January 13, 2025, the Sun enters Capricorn, which in Vedic astrology is considered an enemy sign for the Sun. Capricorn, ruled by Saturn, represents discipline, structure, and ambition, but these qualities do not align naturally with the Sun’s energetic, self-expressive nature. When the Sun is in Capricorn, its light is subdued. Its energy becomes less about self-assertion and more about hard work, responsibility, and patience.
Capricorn energy urges us to be realistic, grounded, and to focus on long-term goals. The Sun may feel diminished here, so it can be a time when confidence is lower, or you may be more submissive to your circumstances and responsibilities.
Adding even more complexity, the Sun will be opposed by Mars retrograde in Cancer between January 13 and January 20, 2025. Mars retrograde, which is about revisiting past actions, frustrations, and inner drives, can challenge the Sun’s energy in Capricorn. Mars, debilitated in Cancer, represents emotional conflicts or acting more from our emotions, so during this time, we may experience heightened irritability, inner conflict, social conflict, or struggles with asserting ourselves in the world. Be prepared for frustrations around power struggles, as Mars’ retrograde opposition to the Sun can bring tensions with authority figures or in relationships with those who hold power.
(This can also amplify tensions with or between world leaders.)
Mars Retrograde in Gemini: Mental Tensions and Re-evaluating Communication (1/21/25 - 2/23/25)
Mars will continue its retrograde journey into Gemini from January 21, 2025, through February 23, 2025, bringing introspection and internal tensions, particularly around actions, motivation, and communication. Mars in Gemini, even without being retrograde is already a tricky placement, as Gemini is ruled by Mercury and thrives on adaptability, versatility, and communication, whereas Mars is very direct, passionate, and action oriented, and likes to take quick action without first thinking about the consequences.
Mars retrograde in Gemini will also oppose the planet Mercury in Sagittarius between January 21 and 24, 2025. This opposition can cause sharp mental tension and contradictions in communication. While Mercury in Sagittarius is optimistic and forward-thinking, Mars retrograde in Gemini may create difficulties in expressing those ideas clearly, causing confusion or misunderstandings. You may feel a push-pull between wanting to speak out and realizing that others don’t want to listen to or hear what you have to say. The period might cause people to be prone to arguments or conflicts that arise from unclear communication or because of a lack of clarity around intentions.
Mars retrograde will also continue to influence Mercury through its 8th aspect when Mercury moves into Capricorn (1/24/25 - 2/10/25). Here, the challenges of miscommunication may take on a more practical tone, influencing work, career, and responsibilities. Mental energy will be more serious, but also prone to frustration and internal conflicts, particularly around how to balance goals with external demands.
Additionally, Ketu in Virgo’s 10th aspect to Mars retrograde in Gemini can intensify this internal energy. Ketu represents spiritual detachment, and its aspect can bring a sense of disconnection in how we are acting or communicating, as though the actions don't align with what we truly want.
*See how this transit will influence each sign at the end of this article*
Venus Exalted in Pisces: A Time for Compassionate Love and Artistic Expression (1/27/25 - 5/31/25)
On January 27, 2025, Venus enters Pisces, its exalted position. Pisces is the sign of dreams, spirituality, and compassion—an idealistic, romantic realm where Venus feels at home. During this transit, Venus becomes more idealistic in love, creativity, and beauty. There is an increased potential for romantic feelings to be intense, imaginative, and infused with compassion.
Venus in Pisces is also in the same house with Rahu, intensifying the emotional and spiritual pull of this transit. Rahu amplifies Venus' energy, making love and artistic pursuits feel all-consuming or more mystical. When Rahu comes together with a planet, it tends to take on the qualities of that planet, but often in an excessive type of way, so you may find that your desires are heightened or that you are overwhelmingly drawn to creative pursuits, life’s pleasures and comforts, or romantic connections, however there is a tendency toward idealization and obsession, so be cautious not to get swept away by unrealistic expectations or to be overly indulgent.
With that being said, this period is still very good for artistic expression, spirituality, and deepening emotional connections. Venus’ exaltation allows for enhanced intuition in love, and creativity. It's a good time to seek out beauty in art, nature, and relationships, but with care.
From January 30 to February 7, 2025, Venus will be conjunct with Rahu in Pisces, reaching exact conjunction on February 3. This will amplify the emotional and creative energy of this pairing, encouraging you to explore your fantasies, indulge in artistic ventures, or deepen your connection to the divine or to loved ones. But as always with Rahu, there's that risk of illusion—what you desire may not always be what you truly need or want, and its important to find balance and stay connected to what you truly desire in the long-term— not just what feels good for a fleeting moment.
*Another thing to note is that Venus and Jupiter will be parivartana until May 13. (they exchange signs— Venus is in Jupiter’s sign, and Jupiter is in Venus’ sign) Both planets together can bring a sudden increase in wealth, pleasure, worldly comforts, and luck for some individuals.
*Venus will also retrograde through Pisces from March 1 - April 12, which is why it will be in Pisces for such a long period of time— so stay tuned for more on that!!
New Moon in Sravana in Capricorn 1/29/25 at 5:35 am
This New Moon is associated with (in the same house) Mercury in Capricorn, and influenced by Ketu’s 5th aspect, Mars’ (in retrograde) 8th aspect, and Jupiter’s (in retrograde) 9th aspect.
The New Moon in Sravana Nakshatra in Capricorn invites introspection and disciplined planning in the areas of structure, ambition, and responsibility. Sravana, ruled by the Moon and symbolized by the act of listening, encourages deep reflection, careful observation, and learning from others to achieve success.
Stay tuned for this month’s New Moon post.
Conclusion: Navigating the Cosmic Shifts of Early 2025
The astrological transits of January and February 2025 present a dynamic and multifaceted cosmic landscape. Mercury in Sagittarius sparks intellectual curiosity and adventurous conversations, but be wary of over-exaggeration. The Sun in Capricorn calls for a disciplined approach, though its energy is weakened by Mars retrograde's emotional turbulence. Mars retrograde itself will challenge communication and actions, especially between January 21 and 24, creating potential tension and frustration. And lastly, on a brighter note, Venus exalted in Pisces brings an opportunity for deep, compassionate love and heightened creativity, though caution around idealization, obsession, and illusion is advised.
With these energies in play, it’s a time to balance expansive thinking with practical realities, open your mind to new adventures, but also pause to reflect on past actions and the deeper meaning of your desires. Embrace the changes, trust in the unfolding cosmic dance, and navigate these astrological currents with clarity and wisdom.
How Mars Retrograde through Gemini could influence you based on your Ascendant (Lagna) or Moon (Chandra).
For those with a different moon sign from ascendant, look at both for the most accuracy.
In summary, Mars retrograde in Gemini from January 21, 2025, to February 10, 2025, brings a time of introspection, tension, and recalibration of how we act, communicate, and align our goals. Its opposition with the planet Mercury in Sagittarius, then later in Capricorn, as well as Ketu's 10th aspect from Virgo, intensifies the period's challenges, especially around miscommunication, frustration, and the struggle to balance ambition with clarity.
Aries (3rd House - Communication, Courage, Siblings)
Mars retrograde in the 3rd house can create friction in communication, leading to misunderstandings with siblings, neighbors, or teammates. You may feel a sense of internal restlessness, struggling to find the courage or clarity to express your ideas. Be mindful of how you present yourself, as impulsivity or frustration may lead to conflicts. Use this time to reflect on your motivations and strengthen your mental focus.
Taurus (2nd House - Finances, Speech, Family)
Mars retrograde in the 2nd house can bring tension in financial matters and family dynamics. Miscommunication within the family or conflicts over shared resources may arise. Watch your speech, as it may come across as harsher than intended. This is a good time to reevaluate your financial strategies and values. Avoid making impulsive financial decisions or engaging in unnecessary arguments over material matters.
Gemini (1st House - Self, Personality, Physical Body)
With Mars retrograde in your 1st house, you may feel a lack of direction or frustration with your actions. Others may misinterpret your intentions, leading to conflicts in personal or professional relationships. Focus on internal growth and avoid impulsive decisions. Take this time to reassess your goals, refine your communication, and focus your fiery energy on improving your adaptability.
Cancer (12th House - Subconscious, Losses, Spirituality)
Mars retrograde in the 12th house brings challenges in managing subconscious patterns and emotions. You may feel isolated, restless, or disconnected from your usual sources of motivation. Be mindful of hidden frustrations or unresolved anger bubbling to the surface. This is an excellent period for spiritual practices, meditation, or working through unresolved emotional baggage.
Leo (11th House - Community, Goals, Gains)
Mars retrograde in the 11th house may create delays or confusion around achieving your long-term goals or financial gains. Misunderstandings with friends or within your social network could surface. Use this period to reconsider the alliances and strategies you rely on to achieve success. Frustrations may arise when group efforts stall, so patience and clear communication are key.
Virgo (10th House - Career, Public Image, Responsibilities)
With Mars retrograde in the 10th house, career-related frustrations or delays may emerge. Miscommunication with authority figures, bosses, or colleagues is likely, so tread carefully in professional matters. You may feel a lack of clarity around your goals or public image, making this a great time to reassess your professional direction. Avoid confrontations at work and focus on refining your long-term strategies.
Libra (9th House - Higher Learning, Travel, Beliefs)
Mars retrograde in the 9th house can bring mental tension around your beliefs, spiritual growth, or higher education. Travel plans may face delays or unexpected complications. You might struggle to communicate your philosophies or feel misunderstood when expressing your beliefs. Take this time to evaluate your personal truth and refine your understanding of your life's purpose.
Scorpio (8th House - Transformation, Shared Resources, Mysteries)
Mars retrograde in the 8th house may stir hidden fears, unresolved emotional patterns, or conflicts around shared finances and resources. You may feel a lack of control or direction in dealing with sudden changes or transformations. This is a good time to dive into deep inner work, such as therapy or spiritual practices, to address and resolve lingering issues.
Sagittarius (7th House - Relationships, Partnerships, Public Interactions)
Mars retrograde in the 7th house may cause friction in personal and professional partnerships. Misunderstandings or unresolved conflicts with your partner or clients could escalate. Communication will require extra care, as words may not land as intended. Use this time to reflect on the dynamics of your relationships and make adjustments to improve balance and harmony.
Capricorn (6th House - Work, Health, Enemies)
Mars retrograde in the 6th house can bring delays or frustrations at work. Workplace conflicts, health issues, or unresolved disputes may take center stage. Be mindful of overexertion or stress, as it could impact your physical or mental health. Focus on restructuring your routines and dealing with enemies or competitors diplomatically. Avoid impulsive reactions to stressful situations.
Aquarius (5th House - Creativity, Children, Romance)
Mars retrograde in the 5th house may block creative flow or create tension in romantic relationships. You might feel a disconnect between your passions and your ability to act on them. Misunderstandings with children or frustration in pursuing hobbies and pleasures may arise. Use this time to reconsider what brings you joy and how to align your creativity with your deeper goals.
Pisces (4th House - Home, Emotions, Comfort)
Mars retrograde in the 4th house could lead to internal tension in matters related to your home, family, or emotional well-being. Miscommunication or conflicts within the household may arise, and you may feel a sense of emotional imbalance. Focus on creating a nurturing environment and addressing unresolved family issues. Reflect on what "home" means to you and how to create lasting stability.