Quite simply, the Sun is how we shine! The influential astrologer Stephen Arroyo says the Sun and its element determines what's real to you. Fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) are vitalized by inspiration, creative risk, spirited times. Earth signs (Capricorn, Taurus, Virgo) find substance in practical action. Air signs (Libra, Aquarius, Gemini) see reality through ideas and conversation. Water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) live in a world of feelings and imaginative impressions.
Sun aspects are formed when planets engage with your natal Sun. These points of tension or flow effect how you shine outwards, and fulfill your soul's purpose.
Sun- MercuryMercury travels near the Sun, never more than 28 degrees away. That's why so many of us have Sun-Mercury conjunctions.
Mercury is spokesperson for that shiny soul. When they're aligned, there's a seamless expression of that radiance. Your way of self-expression furthers your soul's agenda. A super close conjunction sometimes leads to a racing mind, and amps high strung sensibilities.
Sun- MarsWith harmonious aspects (conjunction, trine, sextile), you're an energetic dynamo. Your bursts of enthusiasm either alarm or are stimulating to those around you. You've got energy to burn, literally. Sometimes, you're headstrong and act rashly, without thinking. But there is magic in action, and you'll never be accused of being all talk. Strong sexual appetites.
The hard aspects (square, opposition) make you at times rough, in fight mode, quick to anger. There is dynamite to be handled here, and you're put in circumstances to learn by trial and error. A big lesson is learning to channel your own intensity. You're an instigator and there's always a provocation to further stand up and fight, to fulfill your soul's true purpose. In facing fear of that surge, you turn raw energy into more manna (soul food) to be who you're meant to be.
Sun- VenusHere, the conjunction is the major aspect. Venus, like Mercury, travels close to the Sun. When Sun and Venus are conjunct, identity is closely linked to love and the ability to attract like bees to honey. Often the Sun-Venus person has a special something that magnetizes, and they work it! Their charm is a force with a big impact.
An aspect for artists of all kinds, and those in the business of beautifying anything. A Venus-touched Sun radiates a joy for living that's contagious. This brings ease, as allies and friends draw near and support your Sun's primary endeavors. A woman with Venus gracing her Sun is particularly alluring, possibly very feminine in her way. Men show a desire to live artfully, surrounded by beauty.
Sun- JupiterThe harmonies (conjunction, trine, sextile) magnetize your brightest qualities! You're gifted with an upbeat attitude, and often know how to boost others' spirits. You're tuned in to serendipity, and ready to act when good fortune smiles on you -- and it does, often! Know thyself, so you can be crystal clear with your intent. Be careful what you wish for, because your wishes do come true.
With hard aspects (square, opposition), you're prone to blowing things out of proportion. You're apt to spend as if there's no tomorrow. You can be overconfident, and make plans too grandiose for your skill level or what's realistic. Look to Saturn, Jupiter's partner in your chart for tips on being measured and know when to consolidate your gains.
Sun- SaturnWith harmonies (conjunction, trine, sextile), you have great stick-to-it-ness. This is fortunate, because everything you achieve is hard won. You've got extraordinary discipline, and this leads to substantial success and recognition. Your character is on the serious side, and you're someone who wants to feel like you're gaining traction, being productive. You might need to learn to take it easy, and find that balance with downtime.
A challenging Sun-Saturn aspect (square, opposition) brings tests that might feel punishing, but eventually build character. Life is not easy for you. It seems that authorities (parents, teachers) want to block your path. Yours is a path of overcoming, and the victories are that much sweeter, when they're achieved. If you keep on, keeping on, you can experience a great sense of accomplishment in your mature years.
Sun- UranusThe harmonies (conjunction, trine, sextile) supercharges what's rare about you. A word to describe you is striking, since the impression you make is like a contact buzz. You're a freedom loving individualist, and show genius in some area. You're unconventional, some might say radical, and in that way, become an evolutionary force.
With hard aspects (square, opposition), you're restless to experience what's taboo. You love to provoke and might be disruptive.
Sun- NeptuneThe harmonies (conjunction, trine, sextile) make you a creative, dreamer type. You've got imaginative gifts, and many who know you see you as a natural artist. You're able to embrace change, and in general, have a fluid sense of identity. You're drawn to the spiritual quest, and it's a vital part of who you are. You've got a healing effect, and might be drawn to performing, or healing.
With hard aspects (square, opposition), you're known to lose yourself in fantasies or religious fervor. You fall easily into victim or savior roles, subsuming yourself for another. A strong sense of identity established over time helps you keep your boundaries. Being devoted to the highest path, and facing all illusions, keeps you from losing your way.
Sun- PlutoThe harmonies (conjunction, trine, sextile) infuse your identity with a palpable intensity. You're driven, and equipped with energy reserves that give you staying power. Yours is a healing presence, but can also be provocative. Your identity has a charge -- some are energized by it, others you meet are repelled. It's best not to take others' reactions to your being as rejection. You're here to unlock potentials, in yourself and others. And to be an effective force, as one not afraid to face fear, and move into genuinely creative territory.
Hard aspects (square, opposition) make you reactive to the powers-that-be. If you transform that raw intensity, you're a force to be reckoned with, rather than controlled.


