Solar Returns
The solar return is a chart calculated for the exact moment the Sun returns to the spot it occupied at your birth. This return of the Sun to it's natal degree, minute and second may be a day before your birthday, on your birthday, or the day after. We get one solar return a year. What it gives us is a snapshot of the year ahead.
I love solar returns because of the aspect of timing, this chart is talking about a particular 1 year period.
My own experience of them has been simply amazing. I had a chart one year that described a major career change. I couldn't see how that could happen at all. I had been a PA for 6 years for the same man. He retired, the business was sold. I moved area and because I did not want to start again doing the same thing for someone new, I looked at something else I had first-hand experience of and took a new job in palliative and end of life care. The chart also showed studying and I couldn't see how that could happen either, I got two new qualifications that year.
A year later I had a solar return chart that showed a somewhat erratic path and significant travel. The travel was entirely unexpected and a wonderful opportunity and I went half way around the world and then lived abroad for 3 months. I returned home and moved again the next day.
I did a chart for someone that described an 'undefined' relationship. What the heck is an undefined relationship I was asked? That question was answered by the events that unfolded early in the solar return year. These charts unfold during the year. You can time them with transits to the chart itself. You can see where your energy will be focused, where your soul wants you to go and why. You compare them with your natal chart for significant contacts. It's all in there.
I find it extraordinary that from the moment you were born, this or that solar return was always going to be in effect for this or that year. We are on a journey and the maps were given to us at birth.
For anybody who does not know their exact birth time, I can dowse the time with your permission.