Often associated solely with the changing of the seasons, an equinox or solstice actually carries important astrological meaning. These dates mark a shift in our relationship with the sun and moon, altering the Universal energy that rules our lives.
What does this mean for your life?
Astrologists recognize the importance that the sun and moon play in our daily lives, working together to help shape our personality, influence our emotions and identify our strengths and weaknesses. Not only are these powerful influences in our lives, but if you were to map out the zodiac wheel, the eclipse and solstice dates line up perfectly with the four Cardinal signs of the zodiac. At these points, the energy that we are feeling is intensified, triggering significant growth and transformation.
The Cardinal Axis, as these points are called, mark the moments where the sun and the moon’s influence on our lives shift. For example, as we move from the bright, sunny days of summer into the cooler autumn period, our days begin to get shorter and the nights longer. The influence the sun had begins to fade as the moon’s energy takes over. As such, each of these points carries its own unique energy signature. During the time where the sun is largely in control, we may feel more energy, determination, and power. Whereas, the moon’s reign brings heightened emotions.
These differences in energy correspond directly with the unique characteristics of the zodiac sign. Each sign will find themselves drawn to a different equinox or solstice, their energy signature compatible with that specific moment in time. Understanding this can reveal great insight into your life.
Discover which equinox or solstice your energy is most connected with, according to your zodiac sign:
Spring (Vernal) Equinox: Aries, Taurus, Gemini
The moment when the beauty of spring enters into our lives, we often associate this time with beautiful flowers and new creation. It is at this time that the energy balance begins to shift in favor of the sun as the days start to become longer and the nights shorter. The spring equinox begins with the bold and determined sign of Aries, a sign that isn’t afraid of new beginnings or stepping out of their comfort zone. While you can be a little impulsive at times, your willingness to take that first step will empower you to do great things. It then moves into the stable and solid sign of Taurus, known for its ability to stay grounded in an otherwise hectic life. Friends and family are empowered to grow and evolve through their relationship with you as you provide for the security and foundation necessary at this time in their lives. Finally, the spring equinox concludes with the sign of Gemini. The life of the party, you have a unique ability to establish genuine connections everywhere you go. This is incredibly important during this time of new beginnings, as the people you meet today may play a significant role in your efforts tomorrow.
Summer Solstice: Cancer, Leo, Virgo
As we reach the point in which the sun is at its peak influence in our lives, we move into the summer solstice with the sign of Cancer. Sensitive and compassionate, your love and care for others will create lifelong bonds and an incredible trust. For this reason, your friends and family often see you as a ‘safe space’ when life gets difficult, a shoulder they can lean on. With the sun’s influence, it is no wonder that we then move into the sign of Leo. Known for being confident, bold and even prideful, many associate Leo with ego, however, to do so means overlooking your incredible creativity. You not only embrace the incredible opportunities that the summer months provide, but you also help to lead others in doing the same thing. It’s a time of self-expression and adventure, and you make the most of every minute. The summer solstice will then finish with the sign of Virgo. A complete perfectionist, you aren’t willing to settle for anything less than the best. As the summer begins to draw to a close, we are faced with a return to reality. There is little that bothers you more than when things are left undone. For this reason, you are a master of tying up loose ends.
Autumn (Fall) Equinox: Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius
The energy balance between the sun and moon begins to once again shift, as the days become shorter and the nights longer. The rule of the sun begins to fade slightly, replaced by the emotional energy of the moon. This all begins in the sign of Libra, a sign best known for balance. You seek to find the harmony in every situation, a unique trait that benefits everyone you encounter. You are able to look past the judgments and criticism of society, seeking, instead, to see the world through the eyes of those that you encounter. As this energy continues to shift, the harmony of Libra gives way to the passion and intensity of the sign Scorpio. Mysterious and resourceful, you embrace the idea of growth and transformation in your life, as long as it doesn’t back you into a corner. Embracing the emotional energy of the moon, you allow it to drive you forward to bigger and better things. The final sign of the autumn equinox is the adventurous Sagittarius. While other signs may feel overwhelmed at the very thought of the unknown, you jump in without a second thought. In fact, some may argue that you prefer to be outside your comfort zone more often than within it. Why? You live for excitement and new experiences and acknowledge that these experiences always exist just outside of our current area of expertise.
Winter Solstice: Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces
The most emotional time of the year, the winter solstice marks the longest night of the year. Throughout this time, the energy of the moon is challenging us to listen with our heart rather than our head. This time starts out with the sign of Capricorn. While most will assume that you are 100% logical, completely out of touch with your heart, this couldn’t be further from the truth. However, you do keep this aspect of your personal life guarded so as to avoid being hurt. Often seen as highly successful, you always have your eye on the prize, working forward to the next big opportunity. We then move to the sign of Aquarius, continuing the winter solstice. There is no denying the fact that you are an incredible individual, actively swimming against the current at every opportunity. You aren’t afraid to be ‘different’, despite what everyone else may think. Don’t allow them to change you. Rounding off the winter solstice, we finish with the sign of Pisces. Highly in touch with your spiritual and emotional self, you free yourself from the chains of reality. Your dreams are your escape, but you need to be careful to ensure that you don’t completely lose your grip on reality. That being said, your creative and imaginative energy will empower you to solve some of life’s greatest problems as you come up with new and innovative solutions.