Astrology

astrology - n. 1. the study of the effects of planetary movement and position within our solar system on events and the behavior of living creatures on this planet.

There are twelve signs in the Zodiac (Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces) that are used in Astrology today, along with twelve Houses each ruled by one of the twelve Zodiac signs, and ten Heavenly bodies (the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto).

Sun signs are what most people are referring to when they ask you what sign you are.  While the Sun sign is a significant factor in an astrological forecast, there are many other planets and aspects that complete the horoscope or chart of any one person.  The truth is that your Sun sign is only a small fraction of what determines who you really are, although it is the most important and most pervasive influence.  Your Sun sign describes your individuality, general appearance, character, body language, and even your effectiveness at handling daily stress.

Equally important is your Ascendant sign, often called the Rising sign.  This is the sign that was on the easternmost horizon and rising at the time of your birth.  Your Ascendant sign is also the sign ruling your first House, the house of self.  Your Rising sign can tell you how others can be affected by you, the image you project to others, and tends to characterize the way you interact with others.

The Moon rules over emotions, subconscious thoughts and behavior, and natural instincts.  Who you are deep down, the part of you that acts out of instinct, and sometimes the part of you that others rarely, if ever see, can be described by your Moon sign.  It can describe your darkest most inner thoughts and desires, yet it can also show you just the opposite, your greatest pleasures and compassion.  In essence, your Moon sign is your overall personality.

The remaining eight bodies are all planets whose position in the twelve Houses of the Zodiac determine inherent traits from mental activities to romantic relationships.  Those traits and tendencies, combined with those of the Sun, Moon, and the Ascendant and their respective signs are what make up your Natal Chart, and can teach you a great deal about who you are, how to draw on the positive influences of each planetary aspect, and how to deal with the negative influences cast by each.

Elemental Influences

Each of the twelve zodiac signs are ruled and influenced by an earthly element: fire (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius), earth (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn), air (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius), and water (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces).  Fire signs are energetic, ambitious, and risk takers.  Earth signs are patient, prudent and practical.  Air signs are adaptable, versatile, and analytical.  Water signs are receptive, sensitive and intuitive.