As we reflect on 2022 and prepare for 2023, one often consults Astrology. Similar to birthdays, it is a time of review and planning. Techniques and themes will repeat for annual chart interpretations but there are also specifics which can be applied if you have a target year. For example, Saturn will move from Capricorn to Aquarius, Jupiter from Pisces to Aries, and Rahu Ketu axis will turn backwards from Aries – Libra to Pisces – Virgo in the Vedic System and then this shifts forward by 24 degrees in the Tropical Western System.
So how should you use this information? What does this have do to with your life plans? Well, for one, if any of these shifts go over planets or sensitive points like the ascendent or other angles then it will have a bigger impact. Your natal chart is your potential but the world needs to give you an outlet to release it and the shift of planets are opportunities that open your potential to be realized. It also gives you a focal point, what areas of your life are supported by these world or context changes. Remember to look at the house and the axis. So if your 10th house is impacted of career, don’t forget it impacts your 4th house of home since they are connected. You may be ready to begin a new chapter but is the world ready for it and have you completed your previous chapter? So depending on which area of your life you can see where you will expand (Jupiter!) where you will need to do more work (Saturn!) and changes (Rahu- Ketu or North – South Nodes).
The next thing you review is the timing of these shifts. When is Saturn rolling over your planet and will it be only once or will it retrograde over it three times? Look at these dates and then see what issues or themes arise and how they progress. A lesson to learn, an opportunity to arise, once in a life time events. For Western Astrology you look at Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto, very slow moving planets which will not fully go around your chart in a life time so pay attention as their transits are once (or with retrograde 3 times) and points like Uranus (sudden unexpected change) is good to keep an eye on. As well there is an interesting progression of these planets from the initial natal point that show how we age and develop that is universal, which can be comforting.
One does not need an astrologer to do some basic poking around of your chart transits to see if it will be a significant year ahead. Take any insights without fear and note the dates, planets and areas of your life to be aware and also look back at 2022 and see if these transits manifested your chart potential.
May you all have a happy new year and transition thoughtfully into the year ahead!