Which Location Should You Use in Casting Solar and Lunar Return Charts: Your Natal Place or Current Location?

When casting a solar or lunar return chart, a common question arises: should you use your natal place or your current location? This article aims to clarify the best practices for determining the most accurate and meaningful chart for analysis.

Understanding Solar and Lunar Return Charts

A standard solar or lunar return chart is a special form of transit chart. Unlike traditional nativity charts, it uses the birth chart as the central point of reference and adds the planet positions for the chosen time to the external perimeter for comparison. This chart is particularly useful for understanding the prevailing astrological influences for a specific time period.

Calculating Return Charts Based on Residence

By default, most astrologers recommend calculating return charts for the location where you reside during the time period of the return. This approach is based on the belief that the energies of the planets in transit are most relevant to your current life circumstances and residence. However, in some cases, this may not always be practical or accurate.

Cost and Circumstances Affecting Residency

When you move to a different location during the year of the return. When your job or personal circumstances make you functionally homeless or move between multiple locations. When you live far from your place of birth, which may require a dual chart approach.

In such situations, it is crucial to determine which location best represents your core identity and feelings of home.

Comparing Natal and Current Locations

For individuals who were born in a location far from where they currently live, conducting a return chart analysis at both places is beneficial. This approach can reveal subtle differences in astrological energies and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the return chart symbolism.

Complications in Usage

A significant discovery has led me to always work with two return charts simultaneously: one precessed and one that isn't. This dual approach is especially relevant for those who have an inclination towards Sidereal calculations, which is a common practice in Vedic Astrology.

Impact on Astrological Interpretation

Using a combination of charts (precessed and non-precessed) can offer a richer interpretation of the return chart. The precessed chart takes into account the precession of the equinoxes, while the non-precessed chart adheres to the traditional zodiac system.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between using your natal place or current location for calculating solar and lunar return charts depends on your circumstances and personal connection to the place. However, in many cases, a dual approach can provide a more nuanced and insightful understanding of the astrological influences at play.

Special Interests in Vedic Astrology

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If you have any further questions on this topic or need assistance with your particular astrological charts, feel free to reach out. Your inquiries help us understand the nuances of Vedic astrology and its application in various contexts.