What your Saturn return means for your twenties
Lucy Sarret unpacks what exactly is a Saturn return and how you can embrace it
Danielle Rangel via Pexels
If you’re in your mid-to-late twenties and feel like the universe has thrown your life into a blender, congrats! You’ve likely just met your Saturn return.
This astrological rite of passage is known among the astrology world for bringing major shake-ups – and if you’re wondering why your career feels like a mess, or your love life is giving main-character-in-a-breakup-movie vibes, Saturn might be behind it.
But fear not, because while this planet is definitely the tough love teacher of the zodiac, it’s also here to set you up for some serious glow-up energy.
As we head into 2025, we sat down with celebrity psychic and astrologer Inbaal Honigman to understand exactly what many of us here at Sextras may be experiencing.
What is the Saturn return and why does it matter?
The Saturn return isn’t just another planetary transit; it’s a cosmic overhaul.
According to Honigman, “The Saturn return is a personal astrological event. It is the moment when the planet Saturn, which governs karma, maturity, and slow, deliberate changes, returns to the exact spot in the sky that it was when you were born.”
This event happens roughly every 28 to 30 years, marking pivotal moments in life – first around 29, then again at 58, and 87. Each return ushers in a new stage of life, from growing into adulthood to embracing maturity and, eventually, reflecting on your legacy.
As Honigman puts it, “The Saturn return gives you the freedom to choose new; choose more; and choose better for you.”
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Why does Saturn’s first return feel so intense?
If you’re in your 20s wondering why your world feels like it’s been flipped upside down, it’s because Saturn is doing exactly that – flipping the script on what no longer serves you. This isn’t a quick cosmic breeze-through, either.
“The Saturn return period lasts about two and a half years, and its influence can be felt for a few years before and after,” says Honigman.
So, basically, anywhere from 26 to 33, you’re in for a ride. Saturn’s first return is particularly intense, because it marks the transition from youthful exploration to the more grounded responsibilities of adulthood.
“This stage of life is the transition between youth and full adulthood,” Honigman explains. “Saying goodbye to the bad habits of early life – drink, drugs, and bad partners –and waving hello to respectful relationships and starting a business.”
“Resistance is futile. The Saturn return will bring changes, and those changes are good for you, so embrace them”
What should you expect during your Saturn return?
The Saturn return is like a cosmic decluttering session, forcing you to let go of relationships, jobs, and habits that don’t align with your future.
“Saturn is the planet in charge of slow, sensible, mature changes, such as higher education, marriage, childbearing – and, on the more painful end of the spectrum, romantic separation and divorce,” Honigman explains.
Romantic shifts in particular are a classic theme – great news for all of us, I’m sure.
“Reasons to leave a long-term relationship are likely to emerge, which can be heartbreaking,” she says.
But it’s not all doom and gloom – this period is also a powerful time for growth. Similarly, your career is likely to get a reality check. Whether it’s negotiating a better salary, pivoting to a new industry, or quitting altogether to start your dream business, Saturn pushes you toward the path that serves your long-term success.
How to navigate the challenges of your Saturn return
Saturn’s lessons are non-negotiable, but how you respond to them is where the magic happens. “Resistance is futile. The Saturn return will bring changes, and those changes are good for you, so embrace them,” says Honigman.
Some shifts will be unavoidable –like when your landlord sells your flat, or your partner gets a job offer across the globe. But others will require you to dig deep and make tough decisions.
“The challenge is to embrace the life-changing twists and turns when you do have a say,” she adds.
The best way to handle Saturn’s shake-ups? Keep an open mind and lean into the discomfort. “Throwing the doors of transformation wide open and allowing the change to take place is advisable. Sticking to the past will not stand the test of time,” says Honigman.
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How self-care can help you thrive during your Saturn return
Navigating your Saturn return without a self-care plan is like running a marathon without water – not recommended. Honigman suggests tailoring your practices to your zodiac sign to maximise comfort and resilience during this time.
For fire signs like Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius, staying active is key. “Long hikes, an hour at the gym, or the kettlebell in the corner of the room are all good ideas,” she suggests.
Earth signs such as Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn find their grounding in physical comforts like massages or a weighted blanket.
Air signs –Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius – should lean into journalling or losing themselves in a good book, while water signs like Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces can benefit from water therapy, swimming, or ocean-side escapes.
Why Saturn’s challenges are a gift in disguise
As much as the Saturn return might feel like the universe dragging you through the mud, it’s actually a cosmic gift wrapped in a hard-hitting package.
“The Saturn return is your biggest ally in leaving your worst addictions behind,” Honigman says.
Whether it’s breaking up with a partner who no longer fits your future or walking away from a dead-end job, the changes Saturn demands are ultimately for your benefit.
“It will scare you into being better,” says Honigman.
But if you stick with it, you’ll come out stronger, wiser, and more aligned with the life you’re meant to live.
The Saturn return isn’t here to ruin your life –it’s here to help you build one that’s more authentic and fulfilling. As Honigman puts it, “Hold. On. Tight.” This transformative time will challenge you, but it’s also your chance to step into a more powerful version of yourself.
So take a deep breath, grab a journal (or a kettlebell, or a weighted blanket), and embrace the ride. When the dust settles, you’ll look back and thank Saturn for the glow-up.