Secondary progressions represent a symbolic movement of the planets and cusps of the birth chart. This progressed motion is based on the idea that naturally occurring cycles (e.g., days, weeks, months, years) can be compared proportionally. In secondary progressions, each day after (or before) birth corresponds to one year in the life. For example, if someone were born on October 5, 1960, then their progressed chart at age 19 would correspond to a chart cast for 19 days after birth, that is, for October 24, 1960. When we measure backward in time before the birth chart, we speak of converse secondary progressions.

When interpreting secondary progressions, we compare the positions of the planets and other horoscope factors for a particular time after birth with their locations in the birth chart. Certain angular separations, called aspects, have special significance. The most important progressed aspects are those formed by angular separations of 0 (conjunction), 30 (semi-sextile), 45 (semi-square), 60 (sextile), 90 (square), 120 (trine), 135 (sesquiquadrate), and 180 (opposition) degrees. The aspects involving 30, 60, and 120 degrees are considered harmonious and easy; they represent luck and opportunity. The aspects involving 45, 90, and 180 degrees are considered inharmonious and stressful; they signify challenges that force up to grow and develop. If their energy is used unwisely, they confront us with crises and difficulties that get our attention and help us get back on track.

The aspects formed by the secondary progressed planets and cusps among themselves and with the natal placements indicate the unfolding of major life trends. The progressions act like the unfolding of the "genetic code" of the birth chart and form the backdrop against which the transits (the current actual movement of the planets) for a given period take place.

3) The aspects formed by the progressed Moon. These are briefer influences that will color a several week period either side of the date on which they occur. These progressed Moon aspects can also act as "triggers" that stir the aspects formed by the other planets to manifest themselves. Aspects formed by transiting planets to progressed positions can act as triggers in a similar manner.

4. Of less importance are the house and sign placements of the progressed Sun and planets other than the Moon. For the slower planets the progressed placements will be the same as the birth placements for much or all of the life cycle. Thus, they will have a similar meaning to their occurrence in the natal chart. However, whenever a planet changes to a new sign or house, that will have a major impact for at least a year either side of the date on which it occurs.

Next to the entry of each planet into a house or sign is an indication of whether that planet is moving forward or backward in the horoscope and how many degrees into the house or sign it has already traveled. The signs of the zodiac are 30 degrees wide, so a planet at 10 degrees would be one third of the way through the sign. The twelve houses of the horoscope vary in width. The report will indicate the width of each house and how far the planet has already traveled into the house.

The Moon by progression is in the 4th house (the Moon stays in an average 30 degree house for a little over two years). The focus now is on the home environment, one's parents, domestic issues, security, and property or real estate matters. Some will put down roots, change residence, or buy and sell property. Emotional issues from the past are likely to come to the surface for review and resolution. This is often a period of introversion. Many people seek counseling or psychotherapy during a 4th house progressed Moon. Issues of dependency on one's parents can now be resolved. Much time is spent in the home. Psychic experiences and significant dreams may occur. The 4th house concerns final endings, and the progression of the Moon here often brings old unresolved issues to their final conclusion.

Mercury by progression is in the 10th house, bringing a strong mental focus on issues related to career and profession. Your work may involve much communicating, writing, teaching, speaking, travel, computers, and information gathering. You communicate well with your boss and may be called upon to do more of the professional decision making.

Venus by progression is in the 11th house, bringing benefits to your friendships, group associations, and social life. You are drawn to make friends with creative, artistic and attractive people, many of whom will be women. A romance may blossom with one of your friends. You will enjoy progressive ideas, humanitarian interests, intellectual hobbies, and New Age topics. Others value your dispassionate counsel and advice. Some of your hopes and wishes will be realized. Your social contacts will benefit your career.

Mars by progression is in the 9th house, channeling much of your energy into philosophical, inspirational, religious, legal, or intellectual matters. Long distance travel, foreign language and culture, and higher education have a strong appeal. You may engage in some type of adventurous sporting activity that takes your outdoors. An idea may attract you so much that you devote yourself to its propagation. If Mars makes stressful aspects, problems may arise with travel, legal matters, in-laws, or higher education.

The Sun by progression is in Aries. This is a time to develop your independence, initiative, personal identity, courage, confidence, self-assertion, sense of adventure, pioneering spirit, and leadership. You want to be your own boss and to do your own thing. You enjoy competition and risk taking, are able to stand up for yourself, confront others, and succeed in the outer world. You excel at taking the lead and encouraging others in the areas of research, discovery, and development. You recognize the value of keeping physically fit to maintain your vitality and positive energy. You feel best when you stay physically active or engage in vigorous sex. You are able to motivate others but also project a "me first" attitude to those around you. You know what you like and dislike, and have a strong sense of your personal identity. Impatience and impulsivity may be problematic. Aries is a sign that symbolizes the budding life of early spring. Within a year of the time that the Sun first enters Aries, you are likely to be "feeling your oats" and may feel an urge to produce a child of your own.

The Moon by progression is in Virgo where it spends a little over two years. The focus in on your health and any service you perform for others. You may find yourself becoming more timid and perfectionistic. You develop a love of detailed work and a desire to help others and to put everything in order. If you have not had a recent physical examination, schedule one. You will be busy at work, and the emotional tension may take its toll on your health. If the Moon makes stressful aspects, you may be prone to emotional depression. A sensible regimen of diet and exercise is just what the doctor ordered. Some will need to do more work with computers and data processing. Many will enjoy the company of their pets under this progression. There is a likelihood of spending more time with co-workers and with the siblings of your parents (i. e. , aunts and uncles). You have a tendency to be more critical of others.

Mercury by progression is in Pisces, lending a receptive, intuitive, meditative, psychic, or spiritual cast to your thinking processes. You receive much information by way of hunches that prove accurate. You are sensitive to subliminal messages and unconscious communications. You need time alone to do research and thinking. You may find yourself traveling to visit those who are less fortunate than yourself. You can benefit from the regular practice of meditation or another spiritual discipline. You develop an interest in psychological, metaphysical, spiritual, or occult subjects.

Venus by progression is in Taurus, emphasizing a need for security and physical contact in love relationships. You like to hold and be held. You have excellent taste and a love of all the finer things in life. You tend to be self indulgent. Venus here has a beneficial effect on income and finances. You enjoy music, the arts, singing, gardening, and all the creature comforts. You are prone to overextend yourself financially on luxury items.

Mars by progression is in Aquarius, directing your energies toward intellectual or scientific matters, friendships, group activities, and the drive toward personal freedom and independence. You pursue cutting edge or New Age interests. You make new friends through sports or common athletic pursuits. You disdain any type of binding or restricting relationship. You desire to be free, creative, inventive, original, or humanitarian. You prefer novelty and experimentation in your love life, and your lover's mental interests and abilities are likely to be a turn-on for you. Others may find you a bit too aloof or detached in close relationships. You should avoid becoming too much of a rebel.

Jupiter by progression is in Aries, increasing your pride, enthusiasm, optimism, spirituality, and self-confidence. You are able to lead and inspire others. You are assertive about your religious or philosophical beliefs. You have abundant energy and physical stamina, but may tend to put on weight. You must guard against a too selfish individualism.

The Ascendant by progression is in Cancer, emphasizing security needs and attachments to family, the home, past behavior patterns, childhood memories, and tradition. Your roots are very important to you. You tend to be nostalgic, intuitive, imaginative, moody, and sensitive to slights. Your sense of identity is bound up with issues of mothering, parenting, nurturing, or helping others. You have a deep interest in feelings and emotions, and your career may involve you in the healing or helping professions that provide for the basic needs of others. You may find yourself involved in the dissemination of ideas. You need to work through your own dependency issues (especially with your mother) and learn how to let go of attachments. You tend to be overly cautious about safeguarding your emotional and physical security. You are likely to become involved in family projects or in the buying and selling of real estate.

The Midheaven by progression is in Aries, indicating an interest in a career that encompasses competition, stamina, courage, independence, enterprise, pioneering spirit, leadership, direct action, self-assertion, risk taking, and initiative. You may wish to be self-employed or to do more freelance work. Professionally you want to take charge, set your own goals, make your own decisions, and confront challenging situations. Your career may involve vigorous physical exertion or the use of weapons, tools, or mechanical instruments.

For a month or two before and after this date your brain may not be functioning properly. Your thinking might be a bit off, or your speech may get you into difficulty. You tend to be overly sensitive. There is a lack of popularity. You may receive bad or troubling news, public criticism, or negative publicity. An emotional speech or a disquieting announcement can become a source of pain or difficulty, causing you to withdraw from public attention. With other adverse aspects, there is a possibility of malicious gossip or scandal. Communications and written agreements are not favored. You should speak with care and read any fine print carefully. Difficulties with travel or transport may occur.

For a month or two before and after this date can be an emotionally trying time. You may experience disharmony or sadness in close relationships, especially with women. A separation, loss, or break-up is possible. Somehow a female brings sorrow into your life. Any type of over-indulgence is likely to have consequences for your health. Women may experience menstrual or reproductive irregularities. Travel involving pleasure or women can be stressful. A supportive friend can help you get through this period.

For a month or two before and after this date, required adjustments, adaptations, and demands on your time may place a strain on your health, stamina, or financial situation. This aspect (150 degrees) often indicates a stressful situation involving some sort of parting, leave taking, release, separation, readjustment, correction, or letting go. Career and family matters are a source of worry and concern. You may feel overwhelmed by job requirements and domestic duties. An illness or other obligation in the family may occupy your time. A professional matter may require more effort than initially anticipated. Students may not receive the grade they had anticipated on an examination.

The Moon by progression is in Libra where it spends a little over two years, putting the spotlight on partnerships, binding agreements, intimate contacts, and close personal relationships. Some will marry under this progression. For others a significant new person, an important consultant, or a business partner will enter the life. You may cooperate with others on joint intellectual projects. There is a chance of legal involvements or dealings with lawyers. Your personality becomes more gentle, balanced, esthetic, and diplomatic. You may feel an excessive need to compromise and to please others at your own expense. Don't be afraid to make waves and assert yourself if the need arises.

Contacts you make during the span of about a year before and after this date can advance your career and enable you to shine. You find it easy to get your ideas across, and you can promote yourself through networking. Relationships and companionship with males are favored. You may receive benefits through influential people. Students may receive an award or scholarship, or have an opportunity to study abroad. This is an excellent time to develop creative talents and powers of self-expression. The semi-sextile is especially beneficial for reflection, meditation, understanding, healing, intellectual growth, educational and spiritual pursuits.

Within a year of this date required adjustments, adaptations, and demands on your time may take a toll on your health, stamina, or financial situation. This aspect (150 degrees) often indicates a stressful situation involving some sort of parting, leave taking, release, separation, readjustment, correction, or letting go. You may experience an event or situation that causes grief or sorrow. Troubles may arise with loans or jointly held money or property. You may suffer as a result of a compulsive relationship or an ill-advised love affair. Beware of contracting a venereal disease. Since Venus governs emotional attachments and Pluto rules death, this progression sometimes correlates with the release from an emotional tie through death.

Within a year of this date required adjustments, adaptations, and demands on your time may take a toll on your health, stamina, or financial situation. This aspect (150 degrees) often indicates a stressful situation involving some sort of parting, leave taking, release, separation, readjustment, correction, or letting go. Quarrels, arguments, or aggressive situations may be taxing. You are likely to be called upon to do strenuous physical labor that leaves you feeling exhausted. Hasty actions and angry reactions may cause difficulties. This can be an accident prone period. Be sure to see your doctor if you spike a fever. Women may need to undergo surgery.

The month or two before and after this date are an emotionally exciting and stimulating time. You enjoy unexpected changes. Your domestic life sparkles, and you may purchase modern gadgets for the home. This can sometimes indicate a marriage (in a man's chart) or the birth of a child. You have an opportunity to make new friends and explore unconventional ideas. A chance encounter can dramatically alter your life. Pleasant surprises and unanticipated travel may spice up your life. This is a great time to study astrology. Inventors can be especially creative now. You can profit through computers, technology, and electronic devices.

The Sun by progression is in the 11th house, energizing and revitalizing group involvements, friendships, your social life, and your hopes and wishes for the future. Income from career will increase. You may assume a leadership position in a group dedicated to somehow alleviating human suffering. You are fascinated by human nature and may have an ability to heal other through mental means. You develop an interest in modern science, astrology, psychiatry, New Age topics, and progressive or innovative ideas. You have friends in high places. You want to show others your unique individuality.

For a month or two before and after this date, required adjustments, adaptations, and demands on your time may place a strain on your health, stamina, or financial situation. This aspect (150 degrees) often indicates a stressful situation involving some sort of parting, leave taking, release, separation, readjustment, correction, or letting go. Your concern or worry is likely to focus on the men in your life; they may seem emotionally unavailable just now. You may feel overwhelmed and burdened by job-related responsibilities. Restructure your work to avoid burn-out. Feelings of loneliness and depression are also possible.

During the month or two around this day you will have the opportunity to form a close positive emotional bond with another person. This is a favorable time for domestic or family matters and for relationships with women in general. You will have opportunities to satisfy your emotional needs. This sometimes correlates with a significant religious experience.

The Moon by progression is in the 5th house (the Moon stays in an average 30 degree house for a little over two years), placing a focus on children, hobbies, fun, recreation, sex, romance, love affairs, speculation, and creative self-expression. This is an excellent time for any kind of artistic endeavor. Emotional expression is warm and extroverted. Romance is likely to blossom, and women with this progression will find it easy to become pregnant. If you ever wanted to act in a play, this is the time to pursue your theatrical interests. Activities involving children are also emphasized at this time. Expect many fluctuations in speculative investments. If the progressed Moon is very well-aspected, it is possible to win at gambling or at Lotto at this time.

Within a year of this date you realize that it is possible to have too much of a good thing. Some type of excess, waste, or unwanted expense may create a problem or financial drain in your life. Expansion may cost more than it is worth. You must discipline yourself to avoid overeating, overspending, and excessive self-indulgence. A difficult situation may prompt an outpouring of emotions.

During the weeks before and after this date, you may experience radical changes in your emotional and domestic life. Spring cleaning is in order. You may achieve deep insights into your unconscious motivations. Intense, perhaps obsessive-compulsive, attachments are possible. Power struggles and a wish to control may dominate relationships. Preoccupation with themes of death and dying is possible. The women in your life may become domineering. On occasion, this can indicate marriage, pregnancy, or childbirth. If this conjunction makes or receive stressful aspects, stubborn adherence to your ideas can create difficulties. Women might suffer health problems of the reproductive system. Digestive problems are possible.

During the year surrounding this date, required adjustments, adaptations, and demands on your time may take a toll on your health, stamina, or financial situation. This aspect (150 degrees) often indicates a stressful situation involving some sort of parting, leave taking, release, separation, readjustment, correction, or letting go. Problems may arise related to travel, education, religious matters, legal proceedings, or dealings with those at a distance. You may feel stressed by the problems of friends or in-laws. Accidents while traveling are possible.

For a month or two before and after this date there is a favorable influence on communications, speaking, writing, reading, study, teaching, learning, travel, and commerce. Your imagination is fertile, and you are capable of creative writing. Your disposition is kindly. You can apply common sense to domestic and real estate matters. This is an excellent time to plan a trip, surf the Internet, sign a document, study a subject, or attend to paperwork.

This is an active, pioneering, and passionate time of your life. Within a year of this date you may have the opportunity to embark on a project requiring leadership, initiative, competition, assertion, innovation, drive, or enterprise. Your work will bear the stamp of your unique individuality, and you will be able to pursue a personal goal. Teamwork is favored. Men, especially assertive young men, may be especially helpful in helping your realize your ambitions. Your energy level is high and you can elicit the cooperation of others. This aspect can indicate a marriage or the birth of a child, often a boy.

Within a year of this date you may run into snags in your social life or you may experience disharmony in close relationships due to tactlessness on your part. Communication with loved ones does not flow smoothly. An emotional letter may be a source of stress but can lead to significant personal growth. Women may cause trouble or make you the brunt of gossip. Excessive spending or self-indulgences can be problematic. When the going gets tough, the tough go shopping. There may be upsetting news about a female relative or other woman in your life. Obligatory travel may separate you from a loved one. Women may experience health problems that affect their sense of femininity. On occasion, this may indicate kidney problems or ill health due to excess or self-indulgence. Be sure to read all the fine print before signing any agreements.