Progressions
Astrological progressions are one of the main means to forecast future trends and developments. Whilst transits (the other main method) measure the planets' ongoing movements across the zodiac, progressions (or progressed charts) involve a method of progressing the natal chart forward from the moment of the birth into the future.
Interpretation of progressions is usually fairly similar to the interpretation of transits. In general however, progressions primarily involve psychological developments from within the individual, whilst transits involve developments in the life circumstances outside the individual's control.
Progressions are responsible for many of the profound adjustments that take place occasionally during our lifetimes and so should always be considered when analyzing the future potential of a birth chart.
Secondary Progressions
A progressed chart is the natal chart 'progressed' forward to a particular year, and is usually measured by taking each day after birth to equal one year of life (also known as secondary progression, or a-day-for-a-year progression). For example, where the planets were 27 days after birth will relate to the 27th year of that person's life. By looking at the progressed planetary positions and relationships in comparison to the natal ones, we discover what areas of life will be uppermost in the mind at that time, where the challenges and the adventures will be.
Progressed planets remain in the same sign and house for a long time, thus moderating small shifts in energy and producing subtle, psychological influences. However, when they do move, major changes in character and lifestyle can happen. The Sun's normal 30 day cycle is extended to 30 years when progressed, whilst the Moon takes 28 years to complete its cycle, or two and a half years to travel through one house or sign. When progressed Sun, Mercury, Venus, or Mars enter an unoccupied sign or house, characteristics of the sign and area of life represented by that house become important for the rest of that person's life.
When a progressed planet moves into a new sign or house, its effect on the lifestyle and character can be quite powerful, though rarely dramatic. Any of the planets moving from a positive sign into a negative sign will gradually inspire the subject to more subjective or introspective thought and action, particularly when relating to the area (house) of life in which the planet is moving. Similarly, a change from negative to positive can force a normally introverted person to become more positive and assertive.
During the average life expectancy, the Moon will progress completely around the birth chart - completing one cycle at the age of 28, the second at 56, and a third at 84 - if we are fortunate. These ages also coincide with important Saturn, Neptune and Uranus movements and are considered as fundamental turning points within a lifetime.
Secondary progressions are considered by the majority of astrologers to be the most important form of progression.
Solar Arc Progressions
Also known as a-degree-for-a-year progression, this form of progression involves the whole natal chart being moved forward one degree for each year. For example, a subject who is aged 27 will have a progressed chart drawn up based on the position of the planets moved forward 27 degrees from their position on that birth date. It is important to note that this creates a chart of planetary positions that never existed in real life.
Those astrologers who use solar arc progression usually regard it as an additional source of information to be used in combination with secondary progression.
Other Progression Methods
There are a number of other methods of progression, such as:
- Ascendant arc progression - planets are moved the same distance as the secondary progressed ascendant
- Converse progression - one day before birth equals one year of life, (and so on backwards in time)
- Minor progression - one lunar month after birth equals one year of life
- Tertiary progression - one day after birth equals one lunar month of life
Interpretation
Progressions are usually only important for the inner personal planets (Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus and Mars) as the progressed outer planets will have moved only an insignificant amount.
The main significance of progressed planets is when they form aspects with planets in the natal chart.
Progressed Sun
A period of major importance; this can be an ideal time for important adjustments, organising and integrating of the whole life pattern, as directed by the planet involved in aspect with the sun.
Progressed Moon
A period of about one month's duration, in which affairs and psychological features associated with the planet will be activated and emphasised. The progressed moon often acts as a 'trigger' to activate patterns already set by other progressed planets.
Progressed Mercury
This usually indicates increased mental activity, changes and necessary readjustments, travel, and literary matters of above average importance.
Progressed Venus
This usually indicates a period of much importance as regards emotional, personal and creative interests. It can mean falling in (or out of) love, marriage, the birth of a child, inspired creative work, or an emphasis on money matters.
Progressed Mars
A period of increased conflict, activity and enterprise. It can be an ideal time for taking the initiative, or tackling work that has piled up. Energy must be controlled, and impulsive action avoided. The subject is often more accident prone.
