The Importance
of the Solar Return Moment
"Being There on Time"
General Overview for the Year
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The exact time of one's solar
return is a sacred annual event for each individual.
It happens at only one specific moment each year. It
is at that moment - and only that moment - in which
the Earth/Sun relationship is exactly the same as when
you were born. Such a moment constitutes an "event",
and as with all events, this one too is the basis for
a horoscope of import.
However the importance of this
horoscope is unique only to the individual to whom it
applies. The quality of that "moment" (i.e. the time
of one's solar return) becomes the "seed" of that
annual cycle. It is the basis for a horoscope that
will describe the astrological factors in effect for
that one-year cycle. A "moment" of such importance
favors a certain mind-set of the individual as it
occurs. This is especially true if one accepts the
premise that thought creates (or influences) reality.
If every moment of time has its own unique quality,
then one would want the "quality" of the solar return
"moment" to be special in a favorable way, especially
since it becomes the horoscope for the year in that
person's life.
Given this premise, the individual
is encouraged to enter the solar return moment with a
sense of reverence. The individual is encouraged to
put some thought and effort into assuring that this
moment is somehow empowered, infused, with an energy
or thoughts consistent with what that individual would
want to experience in the coming year.
What should one do at this moment?
That of course is up to each individual (you).
Obviously it would not be a favorable omen if you
engaged in an argument, or sat home brooding, or went
to work in an atmosphere of frustration or boredom.
Such experiences at the time of your solar return
would likely set the foundation for your mind-set for
the entire year - and it would be negative.
The following ideas are intended
only as suggestions. They take into account the
premise that your solar return is the most personally
sacred of all days of the year for you. Therefore,
going into the moment of a solar return, you are
advised to plan something special, something ideally
that would "empower" that moment for you. A ritual of
some sort might be a good idea.
For instance, you might take into
account your location-to-be at that moment. Choose
some place special, some place in which you are
comfortable, happy, and in harmony with. Perhaps it is
near a lake, ocean, river, or mountain. Perhaps it is
on a beach or in a forest. Or perhaps it is in a
favorite room.
Set the "stage". Perhaps you wish
to have a candle burning, and/or music playing.
Perhaps the direction you are facing (North, East,
West or South - facing the Sun, or the Moon) has
special meaning to you. Perhaps there are artifacts
(i.e. pets, jewelry, stones) that have personal
meaning, and you wish to display them in your
"circle." Perhaps there is a special person whom you
have decided to share this moment with.
The setting (if effected) should be
completely set at least ten minutes prior to the solar
return moment. As you enter the 10 minute time band
leading into the solar return moment, you may consider
beginning a meditation. How one meditates is
completely individualistic. Perhaps you prefer to just
enter a very relaxed state. Perhaps you like to chant.
Perhaps you use visualization or affirmation
exercises. If the latter, then after achieving a state
of relaxation, you might visualize the areas of
interest coming up in the next year. In this
visualization exercise, you might try to see yourself
happy and successful in each situation.
This meditation should last into -
and slightly beyond - the solar return moment. Once
the moment has passed, and the meditation is complete,
you are encouraged to give thanks. This may done in a
prayer, or whatever form is sacred to you. In this
way, you bring a gentle closure to the sacred moment
which has just passed, a moment which has now become
the foundation for the one-year cycle about to begin.
You cannot be late for this moment.
Otherwise, you might be symbolically late throughout
the entire year. Do not take this moment in time
lightly. Otherwise, all of your affairs may be
symbolically taken lightly all year. The solar return
is best viewed in the spirit of a pilgrimage, or a
mission. It is the most important "holiday" of the
year to you. It is the one time during the year that
you are "connected" to the Infinite through the
special relationship of the Earth and Sun. It is a
moment when you are potentially in tune with your
destiny, which is signified by the Earth/Sun
relationship. The Sun is what you are becoming (the
future, your growth potential). The Earth is where you
have incarnated (present, your being). Give it the
reverence it is due.
General Overview for the Year
At the time of your solar return,
planets are positioned throughout the sky in a system
known as "houses." Houses are simply a 12-fold
division of the sky as seen from the location of your
solar return.
These 12 houses are furthermore
divided into three types: angular, succedent, and
cadent houses. Each of these types have certain
general meanings. The more planets you have in a
certain type of house, the more it points to a certain
type of year about to unfold. The character of the
year will be shaped greatly by which house types have
the most - and the least - number of planets.
In this calculation, both your
natal and the solar return planets are used, as they
fall within your solar return horoscope.
The majority of your natal and
solar return planets fall in:
Balance: Having a balance of planets
in each house type is most desirable. You have this,
and it indicates a "balanced" approach to life, a nice
combination of initiative, follow-through, and
inspiration or new ideas.
The House
Containing the Sun
The Sun is definitely the most
important planet (star) to consider in the
interpretation of solar returns, for the whole chart
is based upon its principle. It is the only placement
which is always identical (by longitude) in the natal
as well as the solar return chart. Its house position
shows where the greatest growth may take place during
the year and where one may express the self
creatively. It also denotes the area of greatest
recognition as well as the area where the individual
will "identify" the self this year. It is an
indication of success according to house placement --
an area where the person may "shine" and show honor, a
place where the individual may take pride in his or
her accomplishments.
The houses have basically the same
principles in the interpretation of a solar return
chart as they do in a natal chart. The only difference
is that the solar return houses are temporal in
nature, and thus the actual interpretation of their
meaning will be slightly modified because of this
factor.
The Sun, at the time of your solar
return, falls in the 2nd house.
2nd house: Great emphasis is placed
upon your values, and how you attract and deal with
financial matters. The results, often financial, of
your efforts prior to this time, tend to reap success
this year. If you have been working on a project prior
to the time of this solar return, then this year may
bring into fruition the completion and success of that
project. It may indicate very creative financial ideas
- new ways to increase profit or income. In fact, your
attention may be heavily focused on money, income, or
profit - for better or worse. If you are focused
purely upon money, then a quality of "greed" and/or
"possessiveness" may be noticed unfavorably by others.
You may also come into possession of valuable goods.
Overall, it favors growth in income, savings, and
security, particularly if in trine to the Midheaven.
Cusp Conjunctions of Solar Return or Natal Planets
An area of life is highly
emphasized for the year of the solar return if a solar
return or natal planet conjuncts any house cusp. The
orb of the conjunction is approximately 3 degrees, 45
minutes, either side of the house cusp. The house
system preferred (default) by the author is Placidus,
Tropical method.
The planet making the conjunction
describes the nature of activities - events,
conditions - that tend to unfold in the coming year.
This planet's nature is highlighted as being prominent
for this year.
In your solar return chart, you
have the following planets conjunct a house cusp:
Natal Sun on the 3rd house cusp:
This is the area of potentially
greatest growth possibilities during the next year. It
signifies recognition, attention, in matters to do
with this area of your life. This is an area where you
may express great creativity and leadership skills. It
signifies an area where you will likely identify
yourself in the next year, and with motivation and
effort, will likely succeed. You may exhibit qualities
of radiance, energy, confidence, and leadership in
these areas. However you also be arrogant here.
The 3rd house pertains to your
mental state and intellectual ideas; communications;
automobiles and computers - or anything that assists
in communications; neighbors, brothers and sisters;
your writings and correspondences.
Solar Return Sun on the 3rd house
cusp:
The 3rd house pertains to your
mental state and intellectual ideas; communications;
automobiles and computers - or anything that assists
in communications; neighbors, brothers and sisters;
your writings and correspondences.
Solar Return Jupiter on the 4th house
cusp:
These are areas where unions and
matters of "good fortune" occur; the areas where you
might succeed and expand yourself in a favorable way.
Beneficial contacts and opportunities are likely to
arise here, so it is to your advantage to push matters
(i.e. be assertive perhaps) in these areas. You will
tend to meet with favor from other people here,
particularly on a social level. It also is an area in
which educational and teaching opportunities may be
presented. In short, look for success and happiness in
this area over the next year. However, also be aware
of a tendency to "over-indulge" here. Temptations to
go against your basic nature may be strong, so use
common sense and good judgment in order to enjoy this
area to its maximum potential - without debilitating
consequences later on. The qualities you tend to
exhibit here are friendly, hopeful, optimistic, happy,
charitable, but perhaps "too loose."
The 4th house (I.C.) pertains to
your home and your family; also your basic needs, your
inner self, the "real you." This has to do with your
domestic setting, the people you live with, and your
parents.
Natal Pluto on the 3rd house cusp:
This is an area in which you may
experience potential greatness and/or may influence
others with considerable power. It is an area in which
things, matters, and people may be eliminated,
removed, terminated, or at least transformed. It is an
area that may require many reforms and major changes
within your life flow. This is an area that may
describe your relationship to, or position within,
groups. It may describe your relationship to other
people's assets and values. Oftentimes, something
"dies" here, something is taken from the life here, or
at least threatened with termination or removal in
some way. A healing may be necessary in this area of
life during the course of the year in question. The
qualities you tend to exhibit are intensity, deep,
profound and powerful, but perhaps obsessive and
coercive, pertaining to this area of life.
The 3rd house pertains to your
mental state and intellectual ideas; communications;
automobiles and computers - or anything that assists
in communications; neighbors, brothers and sisters;
your writings and correspondences.
Natal Ascend. on the 12th house cusp:
This signifies a special area of
importance to you this year. You are likely to project
much energy into this area. Immediate attention may be
necessary to handle circumstances which arise here. It
is an area in which you hope to succeed (and probably
will), to "look good," both to yourself and to others.
The 12th house pertains to your
dealings behind the scenes, or the
behind-the-scenes-dealings which effect you;
hospitals, prisons, jails, places of confinement; your
"fantasy" world; places of reclusion; your secrets and
private world.
Perceiving
Reality and Relationships:
Planets in Aspect to the Solar Return Horizon
Since the time and location of the
solar return set up a structure (astrologically) for
which an experience will occur that the individual
will relate to, the foundation of that structure
becomes extremely significant. This structural
foundation is symbolized by the angles of the
horoscope, the axes of the Earth, in which all the
zodiac and all of the planets combine within. The
relationship of these axes (angles) to the planets --
both natal and solar return planets-- give special
meaning to the structure of experience the native will
undergo during the period of the solar return's
influence (one year).
A planet (solar return and natal)
in close aspect to the solar return horizon
(Ascendant-Descendant) -- orb no more than six degrees
-- affects the nature of how one perceives reality,
how one projects the self, what one considers
important in dealing with others, and the behavior and
activities which one expresses in the world during the
year. It also describes how one tends to handle
situations as they arise during the year.
The following represents a brief
description of the planets (solar return and natal) in
close aspect to the Ascendant/ Descendant axis in the
solar return wheel (plus means trine, sextile and
conjunction aspects; minus means square and sometimes
conjunction aspects):
Natal Moon Square Ascendant (Orb:
0°28')
Moon in discordant aspect to
horizon: This is a year that may present many special
emotional challenges. You tend to be very sensitive,
and perhaps easily hurt or offended, especially by
those you care a great deal about, or by the public in
general. It may be best not to take things so
personally. However, if others attack your character
in a personal way, it may be hard to avoid. There
could be unique and special problems involving a
woman. Perhaps one is too dependent upon you, or
perhaps one you love is ill (i.e. mother figure). This
may not be a favorable year in which to relocate the
family, as adjustments to new conditions are not easy.
A sense of loneliness or restlessness may be
pervasive. It may be necessary to engage in
intellectual pursuits in order to distract the mind
from emotional matters.
*Return Venus Conjunction Ascendant
(Orb: 5°50') Favorable
Venus in harmonious aspect to
horizon: This a year in which agreements and
relationships of a very positive nature may unfold. In
business, agreements lead to financial success. Many
new and favorable contacts and contracts may arise,
and you are encouraged to pursue these. Others seem to
find you most agreeable and pleasant to be with. For
the year, you exude more than your usual grace and
charm. Romantic matters also are highlighted. You have
a wonderful and appealing nature which draws others to
you. In addition, your personal appearance is very
attractive - even you like the way you look!
Furthermore, others whom you find exciting and
attractive come into your life, and from this, love
may transpire. Things of beauty and value may also
come into your possession. Financially, you tend to do
very well this year, and your savings may increase,
thus affording you a greater sense of financial and
psychological security. You are encouraged to purchase
things that will make you feel "good" about yourself,
or to change your appearance in some way if you wish
(i.e. clothing, plastic surgery, etc.). You may also
function very well as a mediator between two opposing
views, and receive compliments from both sides.
*Natal Jupiter Conjunction Ascendant
(Orb: 4°11') Favorable
Jupiter in harmonious aspect to
horizon: You tend to experience great lightness and
happiness this year. All things seem to be taken in
stride, with a philosophical and positive approach.
Your demeanor appears more charitable to others, and
more accepting of points of view different than your
own. For this reason, it may be easier than usual to
laugh and enjoy life. Such an optimistic and flexible
attitude makes you a joy for others to be around, and
they may want to do things with you. The year
therefore favors unions of all kinds - romantic,
social, and professional. In many ways, your life
grows in leaps and bounds. It is a year of many
successes, many opportunities, of much joy. It favors
signing contracts, travel, romance, legal matters,
publishing, entertainment, education, and dealings
with people from foreign countries. It is one of the
most fortunate positions, and you are encouraged to
remain near this location at the time of your solar
return.
The
Significance of Vocation and Family:
Planets in Aspect to the Solar Return Meridian
A planet in close aspect to the
meridian -- Midheaven and I.C. axis -- describes
influences upon your vocation and home or family
matters. It may also describe your spiritual impetus
in the coming year and sense of purpose.
You have the following planets in
close aspect to your solar return meridian this year.
*Natal Mars Square Midheaven (Orb:
4°06') Unfavorable
Mars in discordant aspect to
meridian: This year may be fraught with numerous
battles and conflicts, both in home and at work. It
may be helpful to develop more sensitivity to the
effects your actions are having upon others around
you. They may feel you are making too many hasty and
unwise decisions, decisions that are detrimental to
the goals of the company or family. Perhaps you might
ask them their thoughts on the matter before embarking
upon it. Otherwise you may find yourself stepping on
many toes, and upsetting those who support you may
have been counting on. The result could be loss of
support, even loss of job, as well as conflict within
your own home.
*Return Jupiter Conjunct Nadir (Orb:
2°19') Favorable
Jupiter in harmonious aspect to
meridian: A great deal of success and growth are
possible in your work and home setting this year.
Opportunities abound. There is great joy and happiness
possible. Along with this comes the possibility of a
large bonus or increase in income. If you are in
business for yourself, then sales probably increase
greatly as a number of new accounts and contacts are
developed. There is no need to go anywhere else for
your solar return, as this setup is one of the most
favorable possible. It is also possible that there is
cause to celebrate in your family. Perhaps it
coincides with the birth of a child, grandchild, or a
marriage - either yours or someone close to you in the
family. Unions of many kinds are possible, and they
all look favorable. This is a very favorable set up,.
Return Saturn Trine Midheaven (Orb:
2°17')
Saturn in harmonious aspect to
meridian: This is a year gaining respect and prestige
in your work or community. You get what you deserve,
according to the amount and quality of effort you put
into your duties. You may tend to be very thorough and
organized, which helps in the successful completion of
important projects. It also enhances your image as an
authority, or expert, in your field. Many years of
solid work now gives credibility and status to your
position. Your reputation in your field is now earned,
and you may feel as if you have finally "arrived."
There may also be a clarity of purpose in life, a
sense of fulfillment in terms of understanding, or
realizing, your "calling in life." There is a sense of
self satisfaction for a job well done.
Natal Uranus Trine Midheaven (Orb:
1°13')
Uranus in harmonious aspect to
meridian: This may be a year of a windfall financially
or professionally. A major shift in one's work - and
hence one's income - is possible. Sudden opportunities
arise to move in a new direction professionally, and
you are encouraged to explore this possibility. It
could open up new ground for you, and be quite
exciting. It may also lead to changes in residence.
Any dealings with computers or electronics are
highlighted favorably. Developments here may be
favorable to your work or career. Developments with
new or old friends may also be positive, particularly
as they apply to your career or work prospects. Work
seems to be a real "turn on" now, as new challenges
arouse your sense of adventure. You may be very
inspired, so do not be afraid to try new things.
*Return Pluto Square Midheaven (Orb:
4°29') Difficult
Pluto in discordant aspect to
meridian: You may the subject of a vicious power
struggle this year. Your position and status may be
threatened due to the undermining tactics of another,
or due to something entirely out of your control, i.e.
illness to yourself or even threat of death to a
family member. On some level, some aspect of your
existence may be threatened. It may be psychological
or professional. You are best advised to get
everything out in the open if there is an open
conflict brewing, so you know who and what you are
dealing with. There is a quality of obsession, either
about you or towards you from another. You must learn
to offer alternatives, and if the other party accepts,
perhaps through mutual sacrifice a "truce" or healing
may unfold. Otherwise someone may be terminated from
their position.
Being in the
Flow:
Solar Return Planets Related to their Natal Positions
Some years we feel totally in synch
with certain aspects of our nature, and some years we
feel completely out of synch. Such periods may show in
the relationship of your solar return planets to the
natal planets of the same type. Although specific
aspects between the two (solar return and natal planet
of same type) are most powerful, a simple analysis of
gender can be quite revealing. Generally speaking, if
the solar return planet is in the same sign as your
natal counter-point, you tend to be very much in synch
with that planetary principle. If they are even in the
same gender (Earth-Water are Yin, or Feminine, while
Fire-Air are Yang, or Masculine), there is the sense
of being compatible and in synch with this planetary
principle. However, when the planet of the same type
are in different genders, and especially if square or
semi-square to one another, we may feel awkward and
out of synch with that principle.
We will now examine the gender
relationships between the solar return and natal
planets of the same type, and see the areas in which
you feel in synch with your natural rhythms, and which
areas you may feel out of synch with those rhythms. In
those cases where the two actually make an aspect to
each other that aspect is listed. Sextiles and Trines
tend to be favorable, as do most conjunctions. The
squares and oppositions may be more discordant,
although the opposition benefits by being in the same
gender in most cases.
Moon to Moon, Different Gender:
Obstacles, conflicts, and awkwardness in your
emotional life may be felt this year. This may result
in tension and discomfort with those close to you. You
may tend towards moodiness, and your traits and
mannerisms seem to upset those who are close to you.
This may be a period of social discomfort,
frustrations in the domestic realm and with members of
the family, associating with those who do not fulfill
your emotional needs (you may feel hurt and/or angry
at these people). This may be a year of inner
struggles, blockage of your basic psychological urges,
and role disparity leading to erratic behavior.
Mercury to Mercury, Different Gender:
You are apt to be more scattered in energy than usual
(restless and/or nervous). You may find little time
for rest and relaxation, and you are advised to make
time for the latter. It also indicates a year of
potential misunderstandings with others, likely
causing annoyance and some frustration. You can help
this matter greatly by adopting an open-minded,
flexible attitude towards new ideas. Basically you may
find your self out of synch mentally. The ideas you
are accustomed to may not be readily embraced by
others. Perhaps it is wise to see things from the
others' viewpoint this year.
Venus to Venus: When Venus aspects
itself, it highlights a year which emphasizes your
compatibility, values, possessions, and style.
Venus to Venus, Different Gender:
Inharmonious situations with those whom you love may
be experienced this year. It portends a time of
disagreements, or differences in desires with those
whom you want to please. Generally speaking, this is a
year of incompatibility with others, social
differences, discontent with your appearance and/or
style and taste, and not being able to acquire things
that give you pleasure. There may also be a great deal
of indecisiveness and hesitation in making up your
mind. Psychological conflicts regarding personal
values may arise, which could cause some
embarrassment. There may be problems figuring ways to
please others. You are advised to be more firm and at
the same time compromising with others, seeking those
means that will provide the greatest balance and
harmony in your life, and also to avoid displays of
pomp and arrogance which will be upsetting to others
you may be trying to please or impress. Chill out, and
understand you may not be able to please others all
the time - nor will they always be able to please you.
Mars to Mars, Different Gender: A
tendency towards carelessness leading to accidents
and/or disagreements (arguments) may highlight this
year. There is a tendency for rashness and bluntness,
perhaps causing offense to others. You are advised to
be cautious of jumping into new things without
thinking carefully (and consequently letting others
down as you then jump out just as fast). You may lack
foresight, thereby leaving new projects unfinished.
There may be problems with self-assertiveness,
obstacles in the success of new ventures -- perhaps
even catastrophes of sorts. You may also feel
over-stimulated and/or excited. You are advised to
think before acting, to use discretion and care in all
projects, especially new ones, and to practice safety
in all of your affairs and activities where danger of
accidents is even remotely possible. It may not be
favorable to take an aggressive or competitive stance
with others this year, as you are out of synch with
your basic physical instincts.
SOLAR
RETURN - YEARLY REPORT SAMPLE
