Solar returns (lecture notes)

C- L14-SOLAR RETURNS

General Rules:

The Solar Return chart is cast for the exact hour and minute that the Sun
returns to the position it held in the birth chart (you must know your birth
time in order to get an accurate SR chart). It is set up to cover one year in a
person's life and is limited to that one year. Activity indicated through other
means of progression finds its focus in the Solar Return chart. It is the
easiest and most personal way to assess how transits will relate to your natal
chart by 'freezing' them into place for that special, once a year moment in
time when the Sun returns to the same position it occupied at birth.

We obiously, in 90 minutes, don't have time to go into the mathematics of
erecting a Solar Return chart. Suffice it to say that most astrological
software can calculate returns, including Lunars ones which we also do not have
time to discuss. If you don't use a computer or computer service, see me after
the lecture and I will let you copy some of my math sheets.

The Solar Return can dramatically point out where action might occur during the
year by the emphasis on certain houses, made even more pertinent by using the
longitude and latitude of your place of residence. In other words, you not only
update your chart, but you also relocate it to wherever you now live.

So..e Disagreeaents:
As you know, not all astrologers agree with each other, which is fine by me,
because I consider astrology a symbolic language, and as such I feel strongly
that every astrologer should use those symbols that best work for him or her.
When it comes to Solar Returns, many, insist that you must use the place of
birth in your calculations, others, like myself, relocate to wherever you now

1

reside, and still others really take fate into their hands by spending their
birthday in a place that results in the type of Solar Return they want for their
next year. I made my choice based on years of practice and empiric learning, but
I also feel that since the Solar Return is based only on one year, it should be
calculated for where you will spend most of the time during that year.

The Natal/Solar Return Combination
First, we cannot stress enough the importance of the natal horoscope. A solar
return means nothing without the natal chart and I hope before you move any
chart forward by any method whatsoever, you first undrstand and know the natal
chart. Again, not every astrologer approaches this the same way. Some look at
the Solar Return and the natal horoscope side by side, on two pieces of paper.
Others use a two wheel ring and place the solar return chart on the inside, the
natal planets on the outside ring. Personally, I always consider the natal chart
to be the most important, that moment in time frozen forever in the ethers, so
uniquely YOU, and, after all, the entire Solar Return premise starts with the
natal Sun. I erect the new wheel for the Solar Return, place the natal planets
in the new wheel on the inside and the Solar Return planets in the outside ring.

It is also a good idea to look at your progressed and directed horoscope, whichever method you may use to move the birth chart forward, as well as eclipses or
lunations. You may just make yourself some notes on some of the afore-mentioned
happenings, or erect full charts.. .whichever way works best for you. Though the
Solar Return will give you all the information you need, it is always wise to
seek confirmation.

A small warning is in line - and I always do this, because amongst you might be
some bright eyed novice who looks at her Solar Return, sees Saturn conjunct her
Moon, and immediately foresees one whole year of depression, deprivation and

2

dreariness. A Solar Return may show hundreds of possible happenings for the year
but very few of them will actually take place. In other words, not every aspect
results in an event, but every important event will have an aspect. There's also
an old but wise adage to remember: "The stars impel, they do not compel" meaning
your FREE WILL and your attitude will make all the difference. That much
maligned Saturn/Moon combination seen as disastrous by the beginner can really
be what you've been looking for to keep your emotions under control, to help you
focus and concentrate, to give you the discipline you've been lacking.

Solar Return Interpretation:
To help you interpret Solar Returns, more or less in order of their importance,
I start with the Solar Return Ascendant and its ruler. They show the potential
for your outlook for the year, the scope of your temperament and personality as
well as your possible approach to self-awareness, your appearance and general
health. In other words, the image you project for the year in question. The aiqn
the SR Ascendant is in as well as the sign, house placement and aspects of its
ruler give additional information; so do any planets placed in the lot house or
just behind the SR Ascendant. The areas they rule in the SR chart provide much
insight on the year ahead.

The house in the SR chart that holds the Sun is where much of the activity for
the year is centered. Depending on its aspects, it is the region where you can
expend much personal energy and experience growth. It is where your ego can best
express itself. The SR house with Leo on the cusp often indicates another arena
to worlç out the year's purpose and most certainly a province where you like to
'shine.'

The house that comes to the SR Ascendant from the natal chart is of particular
significance. It frequently brings the needs of that house to the surface and it

3

can give you good insights into what should be handled for the year in question.
Your astrological knowledge will tell you how, but just to give you a few ideas:
The 1st house usually indicates a rather important year, especially if the natal
Asc. sign within 5 degrees. This occurs approximately every 33 years, depending
if you have moved from your birthplace. If it is the 2nd house it can be about
values, finances, money earning, the 3rd house might bring short trips, dealings
with relatives or learning to the fore. The 4th house can signify parental
involvements and home changes, while the 5th house coming to the SR Ascendant
often deals with children, love affairs, creativity or speculations.

The 6th house usually involves more work or it has to do with health and hygiene
matters. Partnerships come to the fore when the 7th house comes to the SR
Ascendant, or maybe just some public acclaim. The 8th house may lead to
research and investigations, or the end of a previously existing condition.
When the natal 9th house is found on the SR Ascendant, it can mean long trips,
new ideas or the wish to publish something. The 10th house brings career or
professional concerns as well as status into the picture. Friends, groups and
unexpected happenings are all areas that can seem important when the' 11th house
is involved. The 12th house may bring the need for privacy or it could indicate
the ending of a phase. All these are just some possible needs being brought to
the surface and some more detailed notes are in your handouts.

To recap, the most important factors to consider are:
1) The SR Ascendant, its sign, its ruler by sign, house and aspects.
2. Rising planets, their aspects and where they rule. (See handouts)
2) The house which holds the Sun, its aspects and where Leo is on the cusp.
3) Which natal house comes to the Solar Return Ascendant.

Division by Axis:

4

There are other elements to review, not quite as meaningful, but still of help
in interpreting the year ahead. For example division of the planets by axis.
Please keep in mind that we are dealing with 20 possible placements, 10 natally
and 10 by SR.
If the majority of planets are on the east side of the chart, you are usually
able to make your own decisions on major issues and have the opportunity to
exercise your own will.
If the majority of the planets are on the west side of the chart, you may have
less control over situations and relationships and may have to accept choices as
others call them. It may also be a year were others play a large role in your
life.
If the majority of planets are above the horizon, you tend to focus a lot on
external events, seem quite ambitious to succeed and business affairs may occupy
a lot of your time.
If the majority of planets are below the horizon, you tend to be more concerned
with inner reactions and at times even feel the need to withdraw and live in
your own little world.

Qualities and Elements on the Angles:
If you have Cardinal signs on all 4 angles, it generally indicates a very active
year. You may initiate new ideas or ventures. Avoid rushing into new situations
without adequate preparation.
If you have Fixed signs on all 4 angles, a somewhat introspective year is ahead
and there could be some financial concerns if the 2nd and 8th are emphasized.
If all 4 ang les are mutable, there is a tendency to be involved with others, to
be social, travel, learn. Procrastination may be one drawback of this position.
With a cardinal Aec. and fixed MC, the year may start out very active and if you
have thought out your goals, the year may end with your achieving them.

5

With a cardinal Aec. and mutable it again indicated a busy year but the results
may depend on other people.
If there is a fixed Asc. and cardinal MC, it is a good time to take action on
long standing ideas and plans.
If there is a fixed Aec. and mutable MC, long-standing plans and affairs may
change and flexibility becomes important.
With a mutable Aec. and fixed MC, others may talk you into starting something
that you have no wish or intention to finish, therefore approach commitments
carefully and try not to become dependent on others.
With a mutable Aec. and cardinal MC, there may be a lot of activity, but it may
not always be productive. Try to establish attainable goals.

General Notes:
When aspecting SR planets to natal planets, keep your orb to 5 degrees maximum.
In delineating the SR chart, you always are dealing with both the natal and SR
positions of each and every planet, except of course the Sun which is the same
natally as in the SR.
Look at stelliums, (more than five natal and/or SR planets in one house). They
obviously denote extra emphasis in that area of life; as they bring action from
the houses these planets rule natally, a bit of confusion may result.
Since angles denote action, count how many planets are angular.
When the angles are reversed (the Descendant is rising) you may feel at the
mercy of other people or even have a marital or business partner run-in. Jupiter
or Venus rising may modify this. Similar feelings may prevail when the SR Moon
opposes the Sun.
Any planet receiving a return is noteworthy and the houses in the SR chart ruled
by that planet need special attention.
The SR houses holding the natal Ascendant and Midheaven are key houses in

6

pinpointing activity for the year. Where the Asc. falls suggests an area where
you will take personal action. Also compare the SR Asc. to the natal ABC. Hard
aspects, especially the quincunx, may indicate some health problems. Be sure
to confirm that by checking the 6th house for health in general, the 8th for
possible surgery and the 12th for hospitalization. In case of serious health
problems, progressions, directions and transits must be checked.
Where you find the MC often reveals where you may take public or career action.
Again compare to the natal MC. Flowing aspects usually promise professional
success while upsets are possible with difficult aspect. Also pay attention to
planets near the SR chart MC, they too may give you clues as to your career
potential for the year. Please remember that when we discuss the 10th house, we
are also addressing your status, an important fact to keep in mind.
Where the Moon falls in the SR chart frequently implies an area of restlessness
or a wish to change. Where Pluto is placed in the SR chart can depict areas of
new opportunities.
SR planets conjunct natal Saturn can disclose responsibility for the year as
indicated by house and aspects. Natal Saturn in the SR 12th often indicates the
need to spend some time by yourself, or it may denote hospitalization. On the
other hand SR Saturn in the 12th typically illustrates your visiting someone in
the hospital.
D

Jupiter in the 12th shows strong protection for the year, like a guardian angel
sitting on your shoulder.
With Mars in the SR 10th, you may get more public attention than you wish.

Indicators of marriage in the SR chart: The 3rd, 7th, 9th or 11th houses sparked
by either coming to the Aec. or having the Sun or Aec. ruler placed there. Also
Venus, Mars, Pluto and Saturn angular (3 to 4 of the possible 8 positions.)
For childbirth or pregnancy: The 4th, 5th and 11th houses activated. The lunar

7

nodes cadent or in the 5th/11th axis. The Moon and/or natal Asc. or MC angular
or in the 5th house. Neptune in the 4th.
For profession, -lob or occupational change: The 2nd, 6th and 10th houses are
activated. Uranus in the 6th or 10th can indicate a job change. In the 6th, the
change is often within the same field or company. In the 10th it may signify a
change in career direction. The Moon and Mars reflect similar concerns.
Home change: This is frequently suggested by 3rd and 4th house activation. The
Moon, Mars or Uranus in the 4th can correlate with changes or moves; Saturn here
suggests staying in the same place or delaying a move. With the Moon, Mars or
Uranus in the 3rd, you may feel the need for a change of environment and talk
about it, but not necessarily do anything about it. Sometimes these placements,
especially in the 4th, indicate nothing more than change in the home itself,
such as remodeling or someone moving in or moving out.
Divorce and Separation: The 3rd, 7th, 8th and 9th houses are activated. The 3rd
because of dissolution of a contract; the 7th usually implies a break with a
partner; the 8th reflects financial settlements and changes in sexual patterns;
the 9th depicts legal activity. Also Pluto, Uranus and Mars are often angular.
4 out of 7 is enough to sit up and take notice.
Strong 2nd/8th house activity can mean an inheritance, an insurance settlement,
a tax audit or going into debt.
Strong 3rd/9th house activation frequently correlates with travel or educational
opportunities.
When the 5th and 7th houses are both activated and Venus is prominent, it often
signifies a love affair culminating in marriage or some form of commitment. If
the person is already married, there may be an increase in the family.
The 5th/l2th house strong or the ruler of the SR 5th in the 12th house can imply
a clandestine affair or one with someone already married, whereas 7thI12th or

8

ruler of the 7th in the 12th may suggest an unfaithful partner.
L4'

11L6.16

(9 Of

(. l4

r'ck Ck ,3L&1 I C

H A NZ

Q

e^ d Z)

ouTs

SIGNS RISING ON THE SOLAR RETURN ASCENDANT

The Solar Return rising sign is very meaningful because it adds a patina to your
overall temperament as indicated by your natal chart. The following notes should
be considered in the total context of how you may best assimilate them into your
modus operandi for the year represented by the Solar Return chart.
Aries: This is often a period of action, quick decisions, increased vitality and
an interest in the opposite sex. If Taurus falls on the 2nd house cusp, added
financial responsibility may be inferred. The impetuosity of Aries could find
you in a spending mood. You may spontaneously start new projects in order to
prove yourself, especially in the natal house that Aries comes from. For
example, if Aries comes from your natal 6th, you may initiate a job change. SR
and natal Mars show how and where you could start action this year.
Taurus: Financial, domestic and occupational affairs occupy you, and this is an
excellent time for some self-evaluation. You probably feel a powerful urge to
improve your physical appearance, to advance in your professional life, to earn
more money and to embellish your surroundings. Use Taurean caution in
contemplating career changes. Think before you act, be practical and consistent.
You have a need to touch and be touched. Natal and solar return Venus show where
and what you attract.

Ge m ini: You are likely to have fluctuating mental views and attitudes,
especially toward your everyday environment and affairs. Be flexible, use care
in dealing with neighbors and relatives, as well as in making any long-distance

9

commitments. More curious than usual, you are open to new concepts and thoughts.
Natal and solar return Mercury show where you should find it easy to express
your ideas.
Cancer: Emotional and sensitive, it is important to be tolerant in all your
dealings, yet the tendency is to be just the opposite, because your temperament
may be unsettled and your feelings close to the surface. This is a time to deal
with your security needs and to express any nurturing qualities inherent in your
natal chart. Family matters may require much of your time and stamina. It's best
to stick to routine. Natal and solar return Moon show where changing conditions
require adaptability in order to maintain stability.
Leo: A good year to be creative, especially if this sign comes from either the
3rd or 5th natal house. A time to be dramatic and self-assertive, but curb your
tendency to extravagance. Be careful of speculation, unless the Sun and ruler
of the 5th house are well aspected. There may be more involvement with children
or you may take on new obligations concerning them. Finding areas to express
yourself would help and the house that holds the Sun can show you where and how.
Virgo: You may hope to change your occupation or at least the daily routine, or
you may feel discontent with those you work for or with. In fact at this time
you may be too critical and analytical of much that goes on around you. There is
additional emphasis on health and work now which may worry you unnecessarily. To
keep a positive attitude and stay busy are the best remedies to overcome a sense
of insecurity in those areas. Mercury placements will show where.
Libra: Tests of family, legal or partnership concerns may occupy you. It may
also be a year where you easily feel sorry for yourself. Instead it would help
for you to stick to your uns, work with spouses or business partners til you
recover your own sense of balance. Both Venus placements can help you find the
area through which you can find harmony and fulfill your social needs.
Scorpio: Powerful feelings can arise for and against those with whom you deal,

10

and you should be aware of how you handle yourself. You may have to call on your
deepest psychological resources in order to regain inner strength and maintain
control. You may want to go into business for yourself or somehow be 'in charge'
and in control of your own destiny. This is also a strong position for
marriage, if eligible. To understand where to take action, blend Mars and Pluto
positions, natal and SR. In SR charts, because Pluto moves so slowly, it is best
to also consider Mars.
Sagittarius: You could experience added financial responsibility or have the
opportunity to make more money. Much will depend on Jupiter's aspects and house
placements. Self-indulgence should be avoided especially if the natal chart
suggests this potential. There may be a strong urge to travel, to find adventure
both physically or mentally, to grow and expand. You could find yourself drawn
to those living far away. This is an excellent time for further schooling or
establishing long range goals, Jupiter's placements will show you where.
Capricorn: Some new responsibilities may be facing you, or some extravagant and
unexpected expenditures. Career and business concerns are like to occupy you and
if Saturn is not too well placed or aspected, concentrate on concrete goals and
be practical and consistent in building your status and reputation. This year
could also bring opportunities for increased power and/or authority leading to
new avenues of recognition. SR and natal Saturn will show you where feelings of
limitation or restriction need to be worked out.
Aquarius: This is a good year to turn your mind to the future and make important
decisions, as long as they are based on past experience. You may feel the need
to be particularly independent now, often more so than is good for you, yet it
is vital to express as an individual in some unique way. Natal and SR Uranus
positions will point out possible avenues. With the Sun ruling your SR 7th house
you should focus on one-to-one relationships of all kinds.

11

Pisces: This sign rising often denotes a restless period where you tend to make
decisions based on feelings rather than sound judgment. This can be delightful
in such areas as love affairs, but needs to be controlled if Neptune's aspects
are difficult, especially if Neptune in involved with the money houses. You may
be going through a very affectionate spell and relate particularly well to young
people. Giving vent to your aesthetic and artistic talents, such as with the
arts, music or dance, can make you feel very good. It is also a good year to
commit to what you really believe in. Take advantage of Neptune's placements and
make your dreams become reality.

HOUSES OF THE SOLAR RETURN CHART

The houses in the SR chart are the most significant, because they represent the
theaters of operation. This is particularly important if you use our system of
relocating, since then the SR chart can show activity where you actually live.
Of course each house covers a wide range of experience, but these notes should
be helpful in your SR chart interpretations. They are particularly apt in
describing action where the SR Ascendant rulers are placed, but they are also
quite useful to describe the houses that come to the Ascendant from the Natal or
anything that involves house illustrations.

Where the natal solar return Ascendant ruler is by house shows where and how the
function of that planet is operating for the year. The solar return Ascendant
D

ruler discloses by its house position the way the function can work out.
(Example: Gemini rising in the SR, natal Mercury in the 4th and SR Mercury in
the 9th could suggest activity in the home relating to 9th house affairs, such
as a foreign exchange student coming to live with you - or the opportunity to
take some sort of home-study course.

1st house: You may feel a strong dsesire for self-expression, to do things for

12

and by yourself, to make things happen rather than wait for others to initiate
them. There could be opportunities for self-development, growth and projection.
2nd house: The emphasis is on values, financial problems and opportunities. Your
motto could be pay and collect. Your earning capacity is accentuated as are all
possessions and personal self-worth. Depending on the aspects to the planets
involved, this could be a good year to invest or buy real estate.
3rd house: The accent is on expression of ideas, personal understanding and your
state of mind. Perceptive abilities may increase; environmental changes are
possible; there may be dealings with neighbors or relatives. There is much focus
on communication. Lots of short trips are indicated, such as week-end outings or
you may get a job requiring daily commuting. You could be moved to study, teach
or write, to whatever extent these abilities show in the natal chart.
4th house: Home, family, estate or parents could all come strongly into the
picture. It is a good time to seek emotional or establish financial security.
Try to work on your image from the inside out; get in touch with your feelings.
This 4th house period is good opportunity to go back to your roots, to get to
know who you really are. Since the 4th house is also a house of endings, some
affairs may need to be finished up or some loose ends tied up.
5th house: Your affectionate nature could be stimulated or you could find novel
ways to express yourself through a new love or a new baby. In fact, this may be
an excellent year to improve relationships with children. Be mentally and
physically creative in order to gain release from possible emotional tension.
Depending on the aspects of both chart rulers as well as the natal 5th house, it
can be a good or bad time for investments or taking chances in any field. Have
fun and play, but if you don't want to get pregnant, do take extra precautions.
6th house: Health and work matters should be wisely handled. Watch people who
work for and with you. Improve any service you offer, or learn new techniques.

13

You may have to make adjustments in your daily routine. Pace yourself - this is
not a good time to push your body beyond its physical limits, unless the
Ascendant and its rulers are very well placed.
7th house: Legal, marital and partnership relations may need attention. Handle
them wisely and avoid quarrels. If you are not married, this is frequently the
year you will tie the knot. Be diplomatic and tactful and try to understand the
other person's viewpoint, even though you may feel quite the opposite. This is a
period where others play an important part in your life, it may also coincide
with incidents that put you into the public limelight. This is particularly
applicable when the 1st and 10th houses as well as the tun or Moon are accented.
8th house: Settlements in partnerships as well as in legal and marital affairs
are possible. Funeral, tax or insurance matters may need your attention or an
inheritance may be coming your way. The latter would need 4th and 10th house
activation as well. There could be strong sexual stimulation and the ability to
express yourself freer in that area. Birth, death and transformation are
emphasized, as well as other people's resources and support. You may borrow
money, refinance property or deal with debts and other people's demands on you.
9th house: The urge to study and learn new concepts may be strong during this
year. You have a need to expand your horizons either literally with longdistance trips or figuratively with armchair travel. Publicity, publishing and
import/export opportunities could be in the offing. Legal affairs might command
your attention. Mental expansion is possible; you might also meet a guru,
teacher or friend who opens your mind to new ideas, ideals and visions. This
year may bring interaction with in-laws or involvement with church or learning
institutions such as universities. Often this denotes a year where you become
intrigued with astrology or similar pursuits.
10th house: Business or career matters could come into focus and with heavy
aspects to the chart ruler, this can be a time of professional advancement or a

14

change of status. Relations with authority figures - governmental, social or
occupational - could play a large role. Parental relationships come to the fore.
Sometimes there is some deep-seated problem in that area which can be resolved
during this period. Public recognition could be a factor. This is a good time to
improve the image you project into the outer world. Handle any business or
career challenges wisely.
11th house: old or new friendships may be accented. Unexpected circumstances may
change some of your plans. Money from your business or career may be forthcoming
(such as a bonus for example), or with challenging aspects, withheld. Social
activity or involvement with large organizations is likely to be spotlighted.
Realization of goals or adopting an unusual approach to them could be your main
focus of activity during this period. Associations made through the public or
your career could prove helpful now.
12th house: Confidential affairs need to be judged and carefully reevaluated. Be
sure to avoid any behavior that could be considered scandalous. You may be quite
vulnerable now and secret affairs could be revealed this year. In fact any subrosa dealings could now come out into the open. This is a good time for quiet
self-development or a spiritual search. You may even feel the need for privacy
or at least a place you can call your own where you can recharge your physical
and psychological batteries. With very harsh aspects, there could be a period of
not necessarily voluntary isolation. This is also a prime year for helping
others less fortunate than you.

RISING PLANETS IN THE SOLAR RETURN CHART

Any planet right behind the Ascendant or in the first house of the SR chart is
considered to be a rising planet, but the closer to the Ascendant, the more
power the planetary themes seem to have. We have also found that a natal planet

15

rising has more impact than a Solar Return planet, but they both are important,
so be sure to judge both. However many planets happen to be rising, take them
all into consideration. When reviewing these planets, do not only look at them
for the ascending significance, but remember that the house they rule will be
activated for the year.
Here is a description of how the rising planets could express in the SR chart:
Sun: This is a time for accomplishments in areas where your personality comes to
the fore, where you can be outspoken, dramatic and definite, of course depending
on the extent possible with your natal Sun. obviously Pisces will not express
in the same way as Sagittarius. You feel in control azid could, this year, live
up to the best your natal Sun can offer.

The effect of a rising Sun can be

seen in the house with Leo on the cusp. This is the area you will experience
your greatest growth, or your greatest recognition.
Moon: Your emotional and domestic side surfaces. Many of the qualities and
experiences indicated by your natal Moon can be enhanced. Build relationships
with loved ones at this time. It is a sensitive period, one in which you are
likely to express yourself in a most intimate manner; keep your emotions linked
to good judgment, especially if you are the least inclined to show your feelings
too demonstratively. A restless time, you may just wish to make some changes,
yet it is best not to do anything on a permanent basis, if this is the sole
testimony. The house with Cancer on the cusp will show where the need for change
is most deeply felt.
Mercury: It is time to put your judgment to work on problems or events indicated
by Mercury in your natal chart. Matters of communication, trade and work are
accentuated. Possible health conditions might arise if you permit your nerves to
become over-active. This is a good year for writing and travel, but also for
caution lest a tendency to hurry or be careless could lead to trouble. Check the
Gemini and Virgo house cusps for ways to communicate and reach out to others.

16

Venus: If you ever wanted to cultivate beauty on many levels in your life, or to
seek harmony, especially in partnerships, this is the year to do it. Your
affections may be strong now, but be sure not to seek mere self-gratification or
self-indulgence at the expense of meaningful involvements. This is a time to
share with those who really care for you. Romance, social affairs and fun are
all highlighted. The cusps with Taurus and Libra show areas that need attention
and activity.
Mars: This may be the year to be active along lines already planned in order to
avoid splashing around aimlessly; also, the better the plans are laid out, the
less the necessity to retrace your steps. Self-assurance is an asset, but don't
get carried away with yourself and try to lord it over others. Temper desire
with discretion. The houses with Aries (primarily) and Scorpio (secondarily) on
the cusp will indicate areas that require you to apply extra energy or, perhaps
you need to cut something away.
Jupiter: Growth and expansion as indicated by Jupiter's placement in your natal
chart are possible now. Long-term or permanent plans may take shape this year.
It is important that you understand your own circumstances as well as those near
and dear to you, and it might even be helpful to grasp conditions of the world
you live in. In other words, expand your consciousness. Try and avoid the kind
of overconfidence that leads to extravagance.

Seek to stretch mentally as well

as spiritually and even materially in the area indicated by the house with
Sagittarius on the cusp.
Saturn: This is a period of testing for personal worth; Saturn's position in the
natal chart can depict the areas where you feel insecure. You can put your
talents to practical use now; results of the kind of life you have lived may
show up in health conditions this year. Since negative use of Saturn can sap
your physical strength, it is important to maintain a reasonable regimen this

17

year, such as good diet, plenty of sleep and a visit to the dentist. At this
time you may also want to take on additional responsibilities, or use your
increased ability to focus in the area with Capricorn on the cusp.
Uranus: Try to take inventory of the past and cut away dead issues during this
year. Look ahead and make changes, especially those that benefit a great number
of people in your life. It may be a period that brings unexpected events to the
fore, therefore the more flexible you are, the easier it will be. It is most
important that you do your own thinking, particularly in the areas governed by
the with Aquarius on the cusp, yet you must make sure not to come across as
self--opinionated. The potential for unique achievement of some kind is
possible, if such is indicated by your natal Uranus.
Neptune: Take time now for a calm examination of your inner nature, time to
reflect upon or to develop an interest in some art form of your liking. If your
chart indicates acting talent, this is the year when the chameleon quality of
Neptune can be of great benefit. It may be an inspirational period, but check
carefully lest you be taken in by some illusion. Give a wide berth to schemes,
especially if Neptune has challenging aspects. Your creativity can best express
through the house with Pisces on the cusp.
Pluto: This is a period for establishing precedents and bringing an end to an
era. It may also coincide with a "first" in your life. But there could be a
tendency to shirk your obligations and try to take the easy way out, especially
if Pluto does not have some challenges from the transiting planets. With Pluto
rising you may feel a need to control, to change others and avoid changing the
self. It suggests an intensified expression of the personality and often denotes
opportunities for growth and development. The house with Scorpio on the cusp
shows where you need to make some deep-seated changes and where the aforementioned growth and development are likely to take place.

18

RETURN NOTES
Ct

for exact time Sun returns to natal position. Must know birthtime.

Whereas progressions, directions, transits show wide picture, SR narrows it
to your year, from one birthday to next.
Joan and I have found it best to relocate chart to place of residence.
Explain why, birthplace also works, place of vacation does not for us.
Importance of putting natal chart in center for focus etc. SR chart without
natal only show half the picture.
Transits frozen into place for moment Sun returns to its birth place.
OC't,
When relocating, how SR can point out wherethe action is taken place you've
already seen in other methods.
SR may show lOOs of different possibilities, use those that confirm what you
see in other methods of moving chart forward. Also what we found seems to be
particularly important:
1) SR Asc. sign
2) Where does it come from in natal chart
3) Where are the 2 SR chart rulers what are their aspects
2 4 ) Where is the Sun, what aspects to transits and where is Leo
5) What planets are rising and where do they rule how are their aspects
6) What new configurations are formed
Interpretation of course the same for whatever you do in astrology. If the
5th comes to Asc from natal may emphasize love affairs, creativity, children
Chart ruler in 7th marital,partnership or legal matters, public acclaim
Sun in 10th status, career etc.etc.
Some less important but helpful look for predominance of planets (20) East,
West, above, below.
Quality of the angles.
o
Stelliums, if there are any.
Planetary return.
Where n. Asc. falls, its relation to itself
Where n. MC falls, relation to itself, planets in SR 10th

;A

Have lots of notes in our book, pages and pages of specifics we have found
to work for rising signs, houses in SR, planets rising, mixture of quality
of angles as well as notes for odds and ends and also indicators of certain
events, such as marriage, childbirth or pregnancy, profession or job change,
Home change, divorce or separation etc.
Obviously not enough time in 75 minutes, so let's work with examples.