Understanding Solstices and Equinoxes in Birth Charts

What Are Solstices and Equinoxes in Astrology?

Solstices and equinoxes are key moments in the year when the seasons change, but in astrology they also act as energetic portals that activate new phases in our lives. Each of these events occurs when the Sun enters Aries, Cancer, Libra, or Capricorn—the four cardinal signs of the zodiac that initiate cycles, leadership, movement, and major change. Understanding what solstices and equinoxes signify in your birth chart can help you work with them intentionally.

Note: This video was translated into English with the support of AI tools. Thank you for your understanding if you notice slight differences from Mia’s original tone or voice.

When Do Solstices and Equinoxes Occur?

They take place when the Sun reaches 0°—known as the Aries Point—of the cardinal signs that mark the beginning of each season. The dates vary slightly each year, but they typically fall between March 19–23, June 19–23, September 20–23, and December 19–23.

Equinoxes

• Aries Equinox: Occurs every March when the Sun enters 0° Aries. It marks the start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and fall in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Libra Equinox: Occurs every September when the Sun enters 0° Libra. It marks the beginning of fall in the Northern Hemisphere and spring in the Southern Hemisphere.

During the equinoxes, day and night last nearly the same amount of time. This creates a symbolic sense of balance that many ancient cultures celebrated as an invitation to harmonize the inner and outer worlds.

Solstices

• Cancer Solstice: Occurs every June when the Sun enters 0° Cancer. It marks the start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere and winter in the Southern Hemisphere.
• Capricorn Solstice: Occurs every December when the Sun enters 0° Capricorn. It marks the beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and summer in the Southern Hemisphere.

During the solstices, we experience either the longest or the shortest day of the year, depending on your hemisphere. Astrologically, these moments are seen as portals for redirecting your energy, taking conscious pauses, and reconnecting with your most authentic intentions.

Wait… What if I live in a country without seasons? Does it still affect me?

Astrologically speaking, yes—the influence is the same. Even if you live somewhere where the weather barely changes or seasons don’t really exist, astrology works with the Sun’s movement through the zodiac signs, which are tied to universal cycles and symbolic energies rather than physical climate shifts.

So even if you don’t experience a noticeable seasonal change (spring, summer, fall, winter), the energy of the Sun entering Aries, Cancer, Libra, or Capricorn is still present. It influences your birth chart and the collective energy, inviting you to align with these internal and universal cycles.

How to Harness Solstices and Equinoxes Through Your Birth Chart

The influence of solstices and equinoxes isn’t limited to the exact day the Sun reaches 0° of a cardinal sign. Each event opens an energetic window lasting three months, during which powerful shifts and transformative opportunities arise.

Each period invites you to set intentions, nurture them, and align with the energy of that solstice or equinox, allowing its influence to integrate more deeply into your birth chart.

• Aries Equinox (March, April, May)

For these three months, the energy encourages you to ignite your inner fire and start projects with courage and passion. This period also aligns with the beginning of the astrological year, since Aries is the first sign of the zodiac. It’s an ideal time to step out of your comfort zone—which probably isn’t that comfortable anymore—take initiative, and step into the role of the main character in your own life. Renewal and bold action take center stage.

Astro tip: Look at which house Aries rules in your birth chart, because that area gets a major boost to initiate cycles and spark movement during this quarter.

• Cancer Solstice (June, July, August)

During these months, the emotional tone rises. The energy becomes more protective and nurturing, inviting you to connect with your roots, what feels familiar, and what truly makes your heart beat and come alive. It’s a perfect time to care for your well-being and create a safe space for yourself and those you love.

Astro tip: Check which house Cancer rules in your chart to understand where you can channel this energy to strengthen bonds and protect what matters most.

• Libra Equinox (September, October, November)

This period brings the energy of balance and harmony in relationships—not just romantic ones, but all types of connections. It’s a time for fairness, reconciliation, beauty, and building bridges instead of walls. Listening, cooperating, and finding mutually supportive agreements become key.

Astro tip: Look at the house ruled by Libra in your chart, as those themes will grow through relationships or personal connections that need balance and mutual growth.

• Capricorn Solstice (December, January, February)

This is your moment to look ahead and ask yourself what you want to build with structure and discipline. It’s no coincidence that this aligns with the close of the calendar year, when we naturally feel the urge to plan realistically and plant seeds for the future. It’s an ideal time for long-term goals, personal growth, and professional development.

Astro tip: Notice where Capricorn is in your chart to see where you’re being asked to take responsibility and build solid foundations that can support your long-term projects.

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