'Be cautious': Astrologiocal retrogrades in 2025
As a journalist, I have always believed in preparation. My schedule is mapped out, events are carefully examined, and deadlines are anticipated to avoid surprises—especially breaking news that can blindside me. But no matter how much we plan, life has a way of throwing us curveballs. Wouldn’t it be great to have a glimpse of what’s coming to have an inkling of what the future holds for us, our families, and our fortunes?
For centuries, people have turned to different forms of fortune-telling for guidance. In Asia, Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese practice that focuses on activating luck and avoiding misfortune by arranging spaces harmoniously. In the West, astrology studies the movements and positions of celestial bodies to interpret their effects on human affairs.
To help us navigate 2025, I sat down with professional astrologer Luanne Manlapaz of Filstrology.com. We explored how astrology differs from Feng Shui, the cosmic shifts shaping the year, and how Filipinos can harness the energy of the Year of the Wood Snake to their advantage.
Astrology or Feng Shui? Cosmic influence vs spatial energy
Both astrology and Feng Shui are used to influence luck, but they operate in different ways.
According to Luanne, “Astrology is about the effects of planetary placements and positions — it’s cosmic. Feng Shui deals with energies and actual spaces.”
Astrology provides insights based on timelines and planetary cycles, helping us determine the best moments for important decisions. In contrast, Feng Shui offers more immediate and tangible benefits by optimizing physical environments to attract positive energy.
Despite their differences, they complement each other. While astrology provides the big picture, Feng Shui focuses on the here and now, offering practical ways to align oneself with the natural flow of luck.
2025: A year of radical change and shifting alliances
According to Luanne, 2025 will be a year of major shifts. She describes it as a pivotal period marked by the movement of four major planets, each bringing significant changes to global events, industries, and personal fortunes.
“2024’s shifts prepared us for the bigger changes of 2025. We’ll see shake-ups, realignments, and transformations on many levels,” Luanne explains.
Here’s what to expect in the coming months:
Key Astrological Shifts in 2025
- Neptune enters Aries (March 30 – October 2025) A once-in-a-lifetime shift bringing bold visions, radical awakenings, and a redefinition of collective ideals.
- Saturn enters Aries (May 24 – September 1, 2025) A period that tests resilience and calls for grit and determination.
- Jupiter enters Cancer (June 9 – October 22, 2025) Expands themes of home, family, and emotional growth, bringing luck in relationships and domestic matters.
- Uranus enters Gemini (July 7 – November 7, 2025) Sparks advancements in AI, digital communication, and education — a potential game-changer for industries and innovation.
These planetary movements align with the Wood Snake’s energy, which Feng Shui describes as cunning, strategic, and adaptable. Whether in business, relationships, or career choices, success in 2025 will require quick thinking, flexibility, collaboration and deep introspection.
Astrological retrogrades: timing is everything
Many people are familiar with the term “Mercury retrograde,” but other planetary retrogrades also influence our decisions and emotions. 2025 features key retrogrades that could impact personal and financial choices:
- Venus Retrograde (March 3 – April 13, 2025). Not an ideal time for marriage, partnerships, or signing contracts. Luanne warns that big purchases made during this time may lead to regret.
- Mars Retrograde (until February 24, 2025). A period of assertion, inflammation, and accidents. Caution is advised, especially in the first half of the year.
- Jupiter in Cancer (June 9 – October 22, 2025). Expands everything it touches, heightening emotions and deepening relationships. Expect family ties to strengthen and service-related businesses to thrive.
Luanne suggests being mindful of these cosmic shifts when making major life decisions. Just as Feng Shui advises against disturbing certain areas in a home, astrology warns us about timing pitfalls that can affect our fortunes. One of the key messages of 2025 is this: Be open to change.
If you resist transformation, whether in your personal life, career, or relationships, it will be more painful. Think of this year as a time to shed old skin, much like the Wooden Snake in Feng Shui. The more adaptable and strategic you are, the smoother your transition will be.
But just because certain periods are challenging doesn’t mean we are powerless. There are ways to counteract the negative energies of Venus retrograde and other cosmic shifts.
According to Luann, we can protect ourselves and our relationships by being emotionally open, and actively seeking support. At the same time, communicating clearly helps us avoid misunderstandings and ward off misfortune.
A quick look at your zodiac sign for 2025
- Gemini – Abundance in resources and connections. Plan and execute early!
- Cancer – Manifestations come to life; expect big rewards and emotional fulfillment.
- Aries – Expect slowdowns and restrictions, like driving with the handbrake on.
- Pisces – A year of limitations and obstacles, requiring careful planning.
- Virgo – My husband Nonong’s sign, forecasts possible financial conundrums in the first half, but welcome relief comes later in the year.
- Taurus – A lot of emotional reflections for Taurus, which in turn will help you build stronger family ties.
- Leo – My zodiac sign, Leos this year will focus on expansions in career and spirituality.
- Libra – Libras will have a difficult time with relationships during the mid-year. If you have a partner, expect them to be distant or a sense of disconnect.
- Scorpio – They have fairly good energy this year, the first half will bring abundant energy in resources, expansions outside the country while the second half will bring travel outside the country.
- Capricorn – Waiting ahead are growth, convincing opportunities, and the accomplishments you weren’t expecting.
- Sagittarius – Put your game face on! 2025 is all about adventure, ripe with fresh perspectives to consider.
- Aquarius – It’s the year to let your bold ideas shine. Take the time to try something new and let the stars lead your growth and breakthroughs.
No matter your sign, Luanne reminds us that awareness of these cosmic influences can help us navigate difficulties and make smarter choices.
Applying Astrology and Feng Shui in 2025
Filipinos love superstitions, but both astrology and Feng Shui offer more than just luck charms — they provide strategic guidance. Here are some ways to maximize your fortune this year:
- Accept change – Whether in business, relationships, or personal growth, resisting transformation will only make things harder. Be flexible and adaptable.
- Collaborate with others – Just as Feng Shui promotes harmony, astrology suggests that working with others will bring success in 2025.
- Plan according to the stars – Be mindful of retrogrades and planetary movements before making big decisions. Timing is everything.
Luanne offers a final piece of wisdom. “Astrology won’t stop you from having a picnic, but it’s always better to plan one when the skies are clear.”
Final thoughts: luck is in your hands
With the Year of the Wood Snake and powerful astrological shifts ahead, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of transformation, challenges, and opportunities. While astrology and feng shui can provide guidance, they are not meant to dictate your fate.
At the end of the day, our choices, actions, and perseverance will determine our success. Luck may open doors, but it is up to us to walk through them.
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