Based on whether the Sun was above or below the horizon (this is your ascendant) at the time of birth, this method categorizes natal charts as either a day or night chart.

Do You have a Day or Night Chart?

You can find out if you have a day or night chart by finding where your Sun is located in your natal chart.

If the Sun is above the horizon or your ascendant in your natal chart, this means you are a part of the day sect and have a day chart. If the Sun is below—you were born under the night sect and have a night chart.

When calculating your birth chart and determining sect, it can be beneficial to use whole sign houses (and I would personally argue to use this system all the time thanks to the work of the brilliant Chani Nicholas)!

In a day chart, the Sun falls in Houses 7 through 12 when using the whole sign house system, This means you were born during daylight hours, so the Sun becomes your sect light or the dominant luminary of your chart.

The Sun will be located in Houses 1 through 6 if you have a night chart. The Moon is your sect light, meaning its energy and influence may be felt more prominently in your personality and throughout your life.

Now, if you were born close to sunrise or sunset, determining your sect can be a bit nuanced. When the Sun is near the Ascendant or Descendant—within about 3-5 degrees—your chart may exhibit qualities of both day and night.

Day Chart Meaning

If you were born with a day chart, this means the Sun was above the horizon or your ascendant/descendant axis at the time of your birth.

This makes the Sun your dominant luminary or sect light in your chart. Having a day chart will emphasize solar qualities in your personality and life, such as vitality, clarity, and outward expression.

The Sun as your dominant luminary blesses you with confidence, leadership, and the ability to inspire others.

You may have a natural affinity for daytime energy—you could be more action-oriented, optimistic, and driven by external goals. You likely shine anywhere visible and public; you were born with a strong sense of purpose and a desire to leave a lasting impact.

Those born with a day chart often focus on logic and have a preference for rational problem-solving, so you may also find joy in structured, goal-oriented spaces where you can share your talents with others and achieve recognition.

You probably thrive in situations where you can lead or contribute visibly. The Sun gives you a fierce inner strength to face challenges with a sense of determination and resilience.

Overall, the energy of a day chart supports an outward-facing, ambitious, and purpose-driven life path.

Night Chart Meaning

If you have a night chart, this means the Sun was below the horizon or beneath your ascendant/descendant axis when you were born.

This means the Moon serves as your sect light or dominant luminary. You are gifted with a deep connection to intuition, emotional intelligence, and internal growth. Night charts emphasize the quieter, more introspective aspects of life, so you may find that you feel best in environments where you can connect with your inner world and form meaningful relationships.

The Moon’s influence brings an empathetic, reflective, and nurturing quality to your chart—you have a strong attunement to emotions, both your own and those of others.

People with night charts usually have a natural sensitivity and a rich inner life. Because of this, you may be more introverted or reserved and take time to get comfortable or vulnerable with others.

With the energy of the Moon dominating your chart, you value depth over surface appearances. You can easily see through others. You have a knack for creating spaces of comfort and support for yourself and others. Those close to you likely see you as a reliable confidant and emotionally intelligent leader.

Your journey involves a focus on personal healing, inner transformation, and building connections that feel authentic and soulful to you. That being said, you could sometimes struggle with expressing yourself or your needs directly to others.

Your strength lies in your ability to weather emotional extremes and complexities with resilience and grace. With a night chart, you’re likely to be your happiest when embracing life’s subtler rhythms, cultivating patience, and seeking wisdom in the unseen and the intuitive.

Sect Planets

Aside from a dominant luminary for day/ night charts, sect also influences the expression of other planets, especially the malefics (Saturn and Mars) and benefics (Jupiter and Venus).

In a day chart, Mars operates as the malefic that’s out of sect, so this can present challenges that feel abrupt or laced with conflict. Not to worry though! The energy of Saturn, the greater malefic, tends to flow better for you.

For day charts, Saturn brings structured growth through effort and perseverance, especially after your Saturn Return. Jupiter also gains prominence as the greater benefic, offering opportunities for growth, abundance, and wisdom.

Now, for those with a night chart, Saturn takes on the role of the malefic out-of-sect—this could create more profound or enduring challenges.

Fortunately, the fire of Mars will feel more manageable and aligned with your overall chart, which can help you overcome any heavy Saturnian energy. Venus also steps into the spotlight of your chart, radiating qualities of love, harmony, and creativity.

However, the strength and expression of these planets are also influenced by their placements, dignity, and aspects. A well-placed Saturn, for example, can be more constructive, while even benefics like Venus or Jupiter can present difficulties if harshly aspected.

Ultimately, the benefic and malefic aligned with your chart’s sect will have a stronger influence over your natal chart, though both will contribute to your life in unique ways.

Diurnal Planets

• Sun – sect light/ dominant luminary
• Saturn – malefic of sect
• Jupiter – benefic of sect
• (Mercury if risen before the Sun)
• (Mars is the malefic-out-of-sect)

Nocturnal Planets

• Moon – sect light/ dominant luminary
• Mars – malefic of sect
• Venus – benefic of sect
• (Mercury if risen after the Sun)
• (Saturn is the malefic-out-of-sect)

When it comes to the other traditional planets, Mercury is taken less into account for influence and is said to be either nocturnal or diurnal depending on its placement, or simply neutral.

If it is oriental, or rising before the Sun, it is diurnal. If it is occidental, or rising and setting after the Sun, it is nocturnal. You can see this in whether it is on the right (rising before) or left of the Sun in your chart.

Several other factors can be taken into consideration as well when considering sect, such as the zodiac signs, houses, and aspects between planets.

For example, if one of the Planets is in their own ruling Sign or exaltation or in a fortunate House their effects will be mitigated. You can also look to mutual receptivity where two Planets are in each other’s domicile. Positive aspects to benefics will also help mitigate a placement, such as a trine or sextile between Saturn/Mars and Venus/Jupiter.

Generally, the day Planets are most constructive in a day chart, and the night Planets are most constructive in a night chart.

If you would like a personalized session with us, book a natal chart reading! For those wanting to learn more about your natal chart or if you prefer to study Astrology alone instead, get your free birth chart report using our Birth Chart Calculator or check out our Astrology Basics archives!

The post Astrological Sect: Day vs Night Chart appeared first on Sage & Moon.

The Planets & You

The Planets are fundamental in astrology.

Each of these celestial bodies is said to possess its own unique energy signature and influence, which is affected by the signs of the Zodiac they pass through as they transit across the sky.

Your natal chart’s placement of the planets adds complexity and variety to your astrological profile, and the interactions between them (the aspects) shed light on where, when, why, and how specific phenomena may manifest for you.

Planetary Meanings in Astrology

Astrology takes into account 10 “planets” which include the Sun, the Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto.

Although Pluto has been re-classified as a dwarf planet and the Sun and Moon are technically luminaries and not actual planets, they are all frequently referred to as planets despite the fact that they are not considered to be true planets.

In your Natal Chart, the Sun, Moon, and Rising Sign are referred to as “the big 3,” as they are the factors that are thought to have the greatest influence on you as an individual.

Knowing someone’s Sun, Moon, and Rising Sign can give you a good idea of who they are. However, because we are complicated and multifaceted beings, you also need to know the positions of all the other planets and placements in a natal chart to really understand the complete picture.

The following three planets—Mercury, Venus, and Mars—are considered to be “Personal Planets” since they have a quicker orbit and switch Zodiac Signs and Houses more frequently than the other planets, making each individual’s cosmic mix particularly unique. These three are generally more significant to our daily lives and makeup. More information about what the astrological houses symbolize may be found here.

Due to their slightly slower orbit and therefore having an impact on a higher number of people at once, Jupiter and Saturn are referred to as the “Social Planets” or “Interpersonal Planets”. Compared to the Personal Planets, these Planets, notably Saturn, will generally have stronger transits that are more noticeable to us.

Neptune, and Uranus. Because of their slow orbit, people of similar ages will have them in the same Zodiac Sign (Pluto moves so slowly that it affects entire generations!). The Outer Planets will be influenced more by the House they are in than by the Sign, any aspects they may form, and even by their transits.

Each Planet has a unique symbol that reflects its meaning. Traditionally, the planets in astrology follow this order: Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto.

The Sun ☉

The Sun is a symbol of the heart of our personality because it is the center of our solar system. It is the essence of who we are, our basic nature, and our core sense of self.

Classified by what is known as “essential dignities”, planets are said to be “in fall” in the sign exactly opposite their exaltation and “in detriment” in the sign directly opposite their rulership.

In the case of the Sun, it is exalted (or most powerful) in Aries and rules over Leo (where it is domicile, or at home). The sign of Libra causes the Sun to fall, while it is considered to be in detriment in the sign of Aquarius. 

The Sun has a yang quality, belongs to the Fire element, and is, unsurprisingly, related to Sunday.

The Moon ☽

Our emotions and internal landscape are governed by the moon.

She controls what we require to feel protected, loved, and cared for as well as how we deal with our feelings and life’s emotional experiences. She is connected with the subconscious mind, intuitive instincts, as well as women in general and the mother role in particular.

When you encounter someone who shares your Moon Sign or belongs to the same Element as you, you usually instantly just “get” each other and connect on an emotional level.

The Moon is yin in nature and corresponds to the Water element. It rules the Zodiac Sign of Cancer and is considered exalted in Taurus, in fall in Scorpio, and in detriment in Capricorn. Her day is Monday.

Mercury ☿

The messenger Hermes/Mercury from Greek and Roman mythology inspired the name of the sharp-witted Mercury.

Its symbol is a representation of Hermes’ winged helmet and caduceus. The only person permitted to travel into the underworld and return was Hermes or Mercury, who was also the messenger between worlds.

Mercury is our capacity for expression, for thinking and processing information, as well as for how we prefer to learn. It governs all types of messages and communication, local travel and short-distance trips.

Earning its infamous reputation, Mercury appears to spin retrograde 3–4 times a year as a result of its ultra quick orbit. Because of its speed, it is also always no more than two signs away from the Sun.

Due to its flexible ability to adapt to both realms, Mercury is recognized as both yin and yang and can be viewed as both a morning star and an evening star. It governs the signs Gemini and Virgo, each of which is a unique expression of its characteristics. This intellectual planet is considered to be exalted in Virgo and in detriment in the signs of Sagittarius and Pisces.

Although Mercury is associated with the Air element. Wednesday serves as Mercury’s day of the week.

Venus

Venus, also known as Aphrodite or Venus in Greek and Romany mythology, is the goddess of love, beauty, desire, fertility, and prosperity. Fittingly, her symbol is reminiscent of another powerful spiritual symbol – the ankh, or the symbol of life.

Venus embodies everything we love, what and how we love, as well as how we desire to be loved and treated by others.  She also demonstrates to us where we might discover value and beauty in the world.

She is yin and is linked to the Earth and Water elements. Venus rules both Taurus and Libra and is considered to be exalted in Pisces, in fall in Virgo, and in detriment in Scorpio and Aries.

Because of the beauty she typically imparts to whatever she touches, she is referred to as the “Lesser Benefic” in relation to Jupiter (the “Greater Benefic”). Her day of the week is Friday.

Mars

Ares/Mars, the Roman and Greek legendary God of war, inspired the name of this fiery planet of action, which has a shield and spear as its symbol.

In astrology, the planet Mars reveals to us how we act in life, what our motivations are and where they are focused, as well as the career path we may want to pursue and how to get there. It also reveals to us how determined and competitive we are, as well as our aspirations, passions, and motivating factors, as well as what potentially enrages us and how hot-headed we can become.

Mars rules over the signs of Aries and Scorpio and is considered to be exalted in Capricorn, in fall in Cancer, and in detriment Libra + Taurus. It is referred to as a “Lesser Malefic” in regard to Saturn since it can occasionally indicate conflicts, challenges, mishaps, or confrontations. Tuesday is his day of the week.

Jupiter ♃

Jupiter, the cheerful planet of fortune, is the biggest planet in our solar system and is regarded as a “Greater Benefic,” bestowing happiness, good feelings, and abundance in general. It is named after the mythological Greek/Roman god Zeus or Jupiter, who was called the King of the Gods.

Although it is a planet of development and growth, this can occasionally have negative effects (sometimes bigger does not always equal better!).

Jupiter can show not only that which comes naturally to us and the blessings we will experience in this life but also our potential for growth and expansion. He also has control over philosophy, spirituality, and ethics.

It is connected to the element of Air and traditionally rules the signs Sagittarius and Pisces. It is considered to be exalted in Cancer, in fall in Capricorn, and in detriment in Gemini and Virgo. Thursday is Jupiter’s day of the week.

Saturn ♄

Saturn, also referred to as the grandfather of time or Kronos, is the Zodiac’s strict taskmaster. He is known as the “Greater Malefic” because it is frequently connected with restriction and constriction and was named after the Roman/Greek God Cronus/Saturn. The sickle or scythe of Saturn is regarded as his symbol.

Saturn is a long-term player who likes to construct things from stable, secure foundations, which takes time. Even if it may seem that progress has stalled or that things are coming to a virtual standstill, it is through this conflict that we develop and mature. It controls all regulations, laws, limits, hierarchy, structure, discipline, and responsibility. It may allude to issues we face in life or paternal figures.

It is notorious for its Saturn Returns, a transit when we might break down and dismantle our flimsy values in order to start over from scratch. Traditionally, Saturn rules Capricorn and Aquarius and is considered to be exalted in Libra, in fall in Aries, and in detriment in Cancer and Leo.

Saturn is connected with the Earth element and has Saturday as its day.

Uranus ♅

A relatively recent addition to the astrological planets is Uranus, which was discovered in 1781. As a result of its 180-degree slanted axis, Uranus has been nicknamed the eccentric oddball in astrology. 

Although its symbol is believed to be inspired by the surname of the man who discovered it, Herschel, I feel it more closely resembles a celestial satellite, which would be appropriate.

Upheaval and disorder, abrupt changes and unanticipated surprises, and technological advancements are all connected to Uranus. Due to the fact that this planet is an outer one, its House placement and aspects usually have a greater impact on the individual.

The planet Uranus is said to be the higher octave of Mercury. It can help us see where we differ from the majority in terms of our peers and how we might follow our own path. It may indicate our preference for innovation or instances in which we took a different route.

We can anticipate developments, reorganizations, and surprise events while it transits. Occasionally, if its transit is aspecting a personal Planet in our charts, it might trigger a sense of urgency or inspire rash, hasty actions.

Uranus is considered the modern-day ruler of Aquarius and is considered to be exalted in Scorpio, in fall in Taurus, and in detriment in Leo.

Neptune ♆

The Greek/Roman sea god Poseidon or Neptune is the inspiration for the name of the aqueous planet Neptune, whose trident serves as its symbol. Neptune is a contemporary planet that was identified in 1846.

The planet Neptune rules over our dreams, aspirations, unconscious mind, illusions, deception and delusions, as well as our ideals, enigmas, and secrets. It is also believed to be a reflection of our imagination, psychic abilities, and intuitive perception. It may also reveal addictive habits or behaviors. 

Again, its House placement, aspects, and transits are most important when analyzing Neptune in a birth chart.  It is the modern ruler of Pisces and is considered exalted in Cancer and Leo, in fall in Capricorn and Aquarius, and in detriment in Virgo.

Pluto ♇

The last generational planet, discovered in 1930, has the name Pluto/Hades, the Greek/Roman deity of the underworld. Its symbol is an orb-topped version of Hades’ staff, similar to Neptune’s trident.  Pluto is the ruler of our underground realms, matters of intimacy, power, and control, as well as the cycles of death, rebirth, and transformation. Pluto may reveal our deepest, darkest secrets, the areas of our lives where we feel guilty or humiliated, and the locations of our own power and passions.

Immense (and occasionally painful) healing, growth, and evolution can be found through the House placement, transits, and aspects of Pluto in your natal chart. It is the modern ruler of Scorpio and is considered exalted in Aries or Leo, in fall in Libra or Aquarius, and in detriment in Taurus.

If you want to discover the story of your stars, check out our FREE Astrological Natal Chart Calculator!

The post Astrology 101: The Planets & You (What Do the Planets Mean?) appeared first on Sage & Moon.

In this blog post, we will explore the various components of a birth chart and what they represent. We’ll cover the importance of the ingredients that make up a natal chart, as well as how to interpret them and how you can actively apply the wisdom of your birth chart in your life.

Whether you’re new to astrology or a seasoned pro, understanding how to read a birth chart can offer profound insights into your personality, strengths, weaknesses, and potential path in life. So, let’s dive in and unlock the mysteries of your cosmic blueprint!

Understanding the Birth Chart

The natal chart is a deeply complex system made up of four main components: planets, signs, houses, and aspects. Each of these components provides valuable information about an individual’s personality, life experiences, and potential.

There are several ways to obtain a natal chart. One way is to consult with an astrologer, who can create a chart based on your birth date, time, and location. Another way is to use an online calculator, which can provide you with a basic natal chart for free.

Thankfully, there are numerous online resources available for generating your birth chart. Aside from our own astrological birth chart calculator, we love Astro Seek due to its user-friendly layout and helpful breakdowns (though any reliable website will do as long as you provide accurate birth data!).

1. THE PLANETS

The planets in the natal chart show various aspects of an individual’s personality and life experiences.

In astrology, there are 10 total planets. The Sun and Moon are technically luminaries, but for convenience, they are usually grouped in with the planets. Each planet and celestial body has unique properties and elements that it governs or influences. For example, the Sun symbolizes one’s core self and sense of identity, the Moon reveals one’s emotional nature and inner world, and Mercury is one’s communication style and intellect.

Each planet has a specific role and meaning, and their placement in the natal chart reveals how they will manifest and interact with one another.

Here’s a brief summary of the meanings of each planet in an astrological natal chart:

1. SUN ☉ / ego, the self, the conscious mind, vitality, creativity, self-expression, leadership
2. MOON ☾ / emotions, instincts, habits, nurturing, mothering, family, home, security
3. MERCURY ☿ / communication, thinking, reasoning, mental processing, learning, writing, speaking, short trips
4. VENUS / love, relationships, beauty, art, harmony, pleasure, finances, values, socializing
5. MARS / action, energy, drive, ambition, passion, assertiveness, competition, sex, aggression
6. JUPITER ♃ / expansion, growth, optimism, wisdom, abundance, luck, higher education, travel
7. SATURN ♄ / limitations, boundaries, discipline, responsibility, structure, maturity, authority, career, achievement
8. URANUS ♅ / change, innovation, freedom, independence, revoluton, technology, eccentricity
9. NEPTUNE ♆ / imagination, spirituality, mysticism, intuition, dreams, compassion, illusion, confusion
10. PLUTO ♇ / transformation, power, intensity, death and rebirth, regeneration, control, obsession, secrets

Remember, the above meanings are just brief summaries and there is much more depth and nuance to each planet’s meaning in astrology. Additionally, the position, aspect, and house placement of each planet in a person’s natal chart can greatly influence its interpretation.

2. THE ZODIAC SIGNS

Marked by twelve constellations in the sky, the zodiac signs in the natal chart provide context for how the planets express themselves. Each sign represents a unique energy and archetype (for instance, Aries is known for its leadership qualities and assertiveness, while Cancer is known for its emotional depth and nurturing nature).

ARIES (March 21 – April 19) / Aries is the first sign of the Zodiac and is symbolized by the Ram. It is a Fire sign, which represents energy, passion, and action. Aries is known for its enthusiastic and adventurous nature, and individuals born under this sign tend to be dynamic, ambitious, and confident. They are natural leaders who thrive on challenges and are always seeking new opportunities to expand their horizons.

TAURUS (April 20 – May 20) / Taurus is an Earth sign and is symbolized by the Bull. This sign is associated with stability, practicality, and materialism. Individuals born under Taurus are known for their down-to-earth nature, reliability, and determination. They are often drawn to the finer things in life and have a strong appreciation for beauty, art, and nature.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 20) / Gemini is an Air sign and is symbolized by the Twins. This sign is associated with communication, adaptability, and versatility. Geminis are known for their intelligence, wit, and charm, and they possess a natural curiosity about the world around them. They are great conversationalists and have a talent for connecting with others.

CANCER (June 21 – July 22) / Cancer is a Water sign and is symbolized by the Crab. This sign is associated with emotions, nurturing, and sensitivity. Individuals born under Cancer tend to be highly intuitive and empathetic, and they have a strong attachment to home and family. They are also known for their creativity and imagination.

LEO (July 23 – August 22) / Leo is a Fire sign and is symbolized by the Lion. This sign is associated with confidence, creativity, and leadership. Individuals born under Leo tend to be charismatic, dramatic, and passionate. They are natural performers who love to be in the spotlight and have a great sense of style and aesthetics.

VIRGO (August 23 – September 22) / Virgo is an Earth sign and is symbolized by the Virgin. This sign is associated with practicality, precision, and analysis. Individuals born under Virgo tend to be detail-oriented, analytical, and hardworking. They have a great eye for detail and are often drawn to careers in science, research, and analysis.

LIBRA (September 23 – October 22) / Libra is an Air sign and is symbolized by the Scales. This sign is associated with balance, harmony, and relationships. Individuals born under Libra tend to be charming, diplomatic, and sociable. They have a natural talent for finding common ground and building relationships, and they value fairness and justice.

SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21) / Scorpio is a Water sign and is symbolized by the Scorpion. This sign is associated with transformation, intensity, and mystery. Individuals born under Scorpio tend to be deep, intuitive, and passionate. They have a natural talent for uncovering secrets and are often drawn to careers in psychology, counseling, and investigation.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 21) / Sagittarius is a Fire sign and is symbolized by the Archer. This sign is associated with adventure, exploration, and freedom. Individuals born under Sagittarius tend to be optimistic, curious, and independent. They have a great love for travel and learning and are often drawn to careers in education, journalism, and exploration.

CAPRICORN (December 22 – January 19) / Capricorn is an Earth sign and is symbolized by the Goat. This sign is associated with responsibility, discipline, and ambition. Individuals born under Capricorn tend to be hardworking, practical, and determined. They have a strong sense of duty and responsibility and are often drawn to careers in business, finance, and politics.

AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18) / Aquarius is an Air sign and is symbolized by the Water Bearer. This sign is associated with innovation, individuality, and social consciousness. Individuals born under Aquarius tend to be creative, progressive, and independent. They have a great love for humanity and are often drawn to careers in science, technology, and social activism.

PISCES (February 19 – March 20) / Pisces is a Water sign and is symbolized by the Fish. This sign is associated with intuition, compassion, and spirituality. Individuals born under Pisces tend to be sensitive, creative, and spiritual. They have a deep connection to the universe and are often drawn to careers in the arts, healing, and spirituality.

The Zodiac signs can be classified in two primary ways: elements and modalities. Below, we’ll break down each.

SIGNS BY ELEMENT

The elements are Fire, Earth, Air, and Water. Each element represents a particular kind of energy that influences the characteristics and personality traits associated with the signs.

FIRE SIGNS / Aries, Leo, Sagittarius. Fire signs are dynamic and passionate individuals, driven by their creativity and enthusiasm. They possess a fiery, confident nature, and are known for their bold and action-oriented approach to life.

EARTH SIGNS / Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn. Earth signs are practical and grounded, known for their methodical and analytical approach to problem-solving. They have a strong connection to the physical world and value stability, security, and material possessions.

AIR SIGNS / Gemini, Libra, Aquarius. Air signs are quick-witted and communicative, known for their intellectual curiosity and social ease. They possess a light-hearted personality and value fairness, diplomacy, and harmonious relationships.

WATER SIGNS / Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces. Water signs are deeply emotional and spiritually connected individuals. They are sensitive and intuitive, and possess a strong connection to their inner world and subconscious mind. They value intimacy, compassion, and empathy in their relationships.

SIGNS BY MODALITY

Zodiac signs can also be classified according to their mode or modality, which refers to the sign’s position within a particular season.

The three modes are Cardinal, Fixed, and Mutable, and each one represents a distinct quality that influences the traits and characteristics associated with the signs. Here is a brief overview of each modality:

CARDINAL SIGNS / Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn. Cardinal signs are the initiators of change, symbolizing the beginning of a new season. These signs are known for their ambitious and enterprising nature, and they possess a strong desire to create and innovate. They are natural leaders who enjoy taking the initiative and inspiring others to follow their lead.

FIXED SIGNS / Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius. Fixed signs come in the middle of a season, signifying stability and endurance. These signs are known for their persistence and determination, and they possess a strong sense of loyalty and commitment. They are also highly focused and resolute, and once they set their sights on a goal, they will stop at nothing to achieve it.

MUTABLE SIGNS / Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces. Mutable signs occur at the end of a season, symbolizing adaptability and flexibility. Known for their versatility and resourcefulness, they possess a keen ability to adjust to changing circumstances. They are also highly intuitive and introspective, and they value closure and completion.

3. THE HOUSES

The houses in the natal chart stand in for various aspects of life, including work, relationships, and family. There are a total of twelve houses, and each one offers information about how a person will approach certain facets of life. If a person has a lot of planets in their tenth house, for instance, they may be very focused on their work.

4. THE ASPECTS

Aspects in the natal chart refer to the relationship between the planets.

Aspects can be harmonious, such as a trine or sextile, or challenging, such as a square or opposition. The aspects reveal how the planets interact with one another, and they provide valuable insight into an individual’s strengths and challenges.

There are 5 major aspects and 4 (main) minor aspects:

MAJOR ASPECTS

1. CONJUNCTION / Occurs when two or more planets are within a few degrees of each other; this aspect brings the energy of the planets together, often intensifying their effects.
2. OPPOSITION / Occurs when two planets are 180 degrees apart. Opposition aspects create tension and conflict, highlighting opposing forces in a person’s life.
3. SQUARE / Occurs when two planets are 90 degrees apart. Squares show inner tension and challenges that require action and change.
4. TRINE / Occurs when two planets are 120 degrees apart. Trines represent harmony, creativity, and ease of expression between planetary energies.
5. SEXTILE / Occurs when two planets are 60 degrees apart. Sextile aspects represent opportunities, growth, and positive connections.

MINOR ASPECTS

1. QUINCUNX / Occurs when two planets are 150 degrees apart. This minor aspect represents the need for adjustment, requiring a change in perspective or behavior.
2. SEMI-SEXTILE / Occurs when two planets are 30 degrees apart. Semi-sextile aspects point to minor opportunities and connections, often leading to gradual growth.
3. SEMI-SQUARE / Occurs when two planets are 45 degrees apart. Semi-squares denote minor challenges and obstacles that require small adjustments.
4. SESQUIQUADRATE / Occurs when two planets are 135 degrees apart. While still a minor aspect, the sesquiquadrate is considered to be a challenging aspect that requires intentional action and adjustment to overcome.

Other Astrological Ingredidents to Consider

Aside from the planets, signs, houses, and aspects, there are other important astrological ingredients that can appear in a natal chart. While there are many more than what we will list here, the following are among the most commonly used and influential:

ASCENDANT OR RISING SIGN / Your Ascendant sign is your public face, the image you present to the world. It is just as important as your sun and moon signs in defining who you are, as it governs how others perceive you. When interpreting your natal chart, you should always start with your Ascendant sign, as it will determine the zodiacal arrangement of your Houses. The ruling planet of your Ascendant sign is also known as your “chart ruler.”

DESCENDANT / The Descendant is the opposite point of the Ascendant and relates to the traits and qualities we look for in a partner or other people. It shows how we interact with others, what we desire in a relationship, and what we seek in others that we feel we may lack.

IMUM COELI (IC) / The Imum Coeli is the lowest point in the natal chart and represents our roots, family, and sense of stability. It relates to our private life and personal identity, and can indicate our relationship with our parents and early childhood experiences.

MEDIUM COELI (MC) / The Medium Coeli is the highest point in the natal chart and represents our public image, career, and aspirations. It relates to how we are viewed by society and our professional achievements, and can indicate our calling or life’s purpose.

RETROGRADES ℞ – Retrograde planets in a natal chart suggest a need for introspection and caution when dealing with the affairs governed by the retrograding planet. Retrogrades occur when a planet appears to be moving backward through the zodiac from our vantage point on Earth. They can be challenging periods, but they also offer an opportunity for self-discovery and growth. The effects of a retrograde planet are typically felt most acutely in the weeks leading up to and following its station direct or retrograde.

CHIRON – Chiron is an asteroid known as the wounded healer of astrology, representing the place where we carry our deepest emotional scars. Its placement in a natal chart indicates what we need to heal within ourselves, and it can reveal the source of our greatest pain as well as our greatest strength. Chiron’s influence is subtle but profound, and understanding its placement is an important step in the journey of self-discovery. You can learn more about Chiron and other asteroids in the natal chart here.

NORTH NODE ☊ – The North Node represents our soul’s purpose and our highest potential. Its placement in a natal chart suggests the area of life in which we are meant to grow and evolve, and it can offer insights into our career, relationships, and spiritual path. The North Node is sometimes called True North because it points us toward our ultimate destiny.

SOUTH NODE ☋ – The South Node represents our past lives and the lessons we have already learned. Its placement in a natal chart suggests the areas of life in which we may be tempted to fall back into old patterns and behaviors. In Vedic astrology, the South Node is known as the Karmic past, and it indicates the karmic debts we must pay in this lifetime. Understanding the South Node can help us avoid repeating past mistakes and make progress toward our higher purpose.

How to Read a Natal Chart

Let’s dive into the exciting part! Once you have your personal birth chart, it’s time to analyze each house and take note of the planets and zodiac signs present in each one. Intuition can also play a significant role here.

In astrology, the planet represents “what,” the sign represents “how,” and the house represents “where.”

For example, if Venus is in Libra in your third house, it may indicate that you have a natural talent for communication or creative abilities requiring the use of your hands, such as painting or playing the piano. On the other hand, if Mars is in Scorpio in your seventh house, it could mean that you have a tendency to be posessive and controlling in your relationships (or that your partners tend to follow this pattern).

Also, don’t forget to pay attention to any significant aspects in your chart! For instance, if your Moon is in Virgo in the 11th house and in opposition to Saturn in Pisces in the 5th house, this may suggest a conflict between your desire for community and expression and your drive for privacy and solitude. Alternatively, you may struggle to express your emotions and desires confidently infront of crowds or groups of people.

By carefully analyzing these placements, you can begin to piece together a clearer picture of yourself and your potential path in life. Reading a natal chart can be overwhelming, however, with a little practice and guidance, it is possible to gain a deeper understanding of your chart.

Steps to Interpret Your Natal Chart

STEP ONE: Identify your dominant planets.

Start by identifying the dominant planets in your natal chart. These are the planets that have the most influence over your personality and life experiences. Look for planets that are in their own sign or house, or that form strong aspects with other planets.

STEP TWO: Analyze the signs and houses.

Next, analyze the zodiac signs and houses in your natal chart. Go through each house one by one and see what sign occupies it, and if there are any planets there. Also, look for any patterns or clusters of planets in certain signs or houses – this can reveal areas of life that are particularly important to you, as well as personality traits that are more dominant.

STEP THREE: Interpret the Aspects.

After analyzing the planets, signs, and houses, it’s time to interpret the aspects in your natal chart. Look for any harmonious or challenging aspects between the planets. Harmonious aspects, such as trines and sextiles, indicate areas of ease and flow in your life. Challenging aspects, such as squares and oppositions, indicate areas of tension and conflict that you may need to work on.

STEP FOUR: Integrate the Information.

Once you have analyzed each component of your natal chart, it’s time to integrate the information to create a cohesive interpretation. Look for themes or patterns that emerge from the analysis. For example, if you have many planets in your 10th house and strong aspects with your Sun and Moon, this may indicate a strong focus on your career and public image.

Practical Applications of the Natal Chart

Now that you understand how to read your natal chart, you may be wondering how to apply this knowledge in your life. Here are a few practical applications of the natal chart:

SELF-DISCOVERY: Your natal chart can provide valuable insight into your personality, strengths, and challenges. Use this information to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your life purpose.

RELATIONSHIP ANALYSIS: Your natal chart can also provide insight into your compatibility with others. Compare your chart with the charts of friends, family members, or romantic partners to gain a deeper understanding of your relationship dynamics.

CAREER GUIDANCE: Your natal chart can reveal your natural talents and skills, as well as areas of life that are particularly important to you. Use this information to guide your career choices and find work that aligns with your strengths and passions.

In addition to these practical applications, you can also use your natal chart in conjunction with other astrological techniques, such as transits and progressions. Transits refer to the current positions of the planets in the sky and how they interact with your natal chart. Progressions refer to the movement of the planets in your natal chart over time, revealing how you may evolve and grow throughout your life.

Key Takeaway

Reading an astrological natal chart can be a fascinating and rewarding experience. By understanding the different components of the chart and how they relate to one another, you can gain priceless insight into your personality, life path, strengths, and challenges.

Whether you use your natal chart for self-discovery, relationship analysis, or career guidance, the knowledge you gain from studying it can help you live a more fulfilling and authentic life. So, grab your emphemeris or astrological calculator, and start exploring the secrets of your natal chart today!

To learn more, check out our Beginners Guide to Astrology or our astro-library of cosmic forecasts, natal interpretations, and more!

DISCLAIMER:

Sage & Moon is a participant in affiliate programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you choose to purchase through these links. Any product we choose is based on personal recommendations that we love and trust you will too. By using these links you are directly supporting us to keep writing + creating. Thank you!

The post Astrology 101: How to Read a Natal Chart (A Beginner’s Guide) appeared first on Sage & Moon.

What are the Houses in Astrology?

The Houses are a crucial component when reading and interpreting your Natal (birth) Chart and using other astrological techniques that include observing the stars. 

Houses in Astrology are calculated by taking the sky as a 360-degree circle and splitting it into 12 equal 30-degree “houses” (360 / 12 = 30). Each house represents distinct areas and aspects of life and is ruled by a certain planet and Zodiac Sign.

They work their way counterclockwise, beginning with the first House on the Eastern horizon (the left of a natal chart).

The Zodiac sign a House is in will influence its style and qualities to the area of life that the House covers and any Planets contained in the Houses will also add a layer of meaning when looking at your own Natal Chart. Generally speaking, the Houses are the “where,” the Signs are the “how,” and the Planets are the “what.”

Continue reading to learn more about the 12 astrological houses and what they mean for you!

The 12 Houses of Astrology

As previously mentioned, each of the houses on an astrological wheel symbolizes a unique aspect or area of our personality or way of life.

Each has a traditional planetary and zodiacal ruler, and each of our individual Houses in our Natal Charts (the sky above you at the precise moment you were born) will have a particular Zodiac sign associated with it, as well as a planetary ruler of that Sign.

For example, the original, traditional ruler of the eighth house is the Zodiac sign of Scorpio and the planet Mars. However, if your eighth house falls under the sign of Libra, Venus will be its planetary ruler. For even further depth, you can then check your chart to see where Venus is located.

Astrological House Sign & Planetary Rulers

1. 1st HOUSE / Aries / Mars
2. 2nd HOUSE / Taurus / Venus
3. 3rd HOUSE / Gemini / Mercury
4. 4th HOUSE / Cancer / Moon
5. 5th HOUSE / Leo / Sun
6. 6th HOUSE / Virgo / Mercury
7. 7th HOUSE / Libra / Venus
8. 8th HOUSE / Scorpio / Mars & Pluto
9. 9th HOUSE / Sagittarius / Jupiter
10. 10th HOUSE / Capricorn / Saturn
11. 11th HOUSE / Aquarius / Saturn & Uranus
12. 12th HOUSE / Pisces / Jupiter & Neptune

The Babylonians, one of the pioneers of Western Astrology, are credited with creating the house connections, which were later improved upon throughout history. Although some houses, such as the 6th, 8th, or 12th houses, may have historically had more negative connotations, they are now generally understood with greater complexity and deeper meaning.

The majority of them are arranged in an intuitive order; for instance, the first house is known as the House of Self since it is the first thing we are aware of when we are born.

Then, in the second, we establish our wants, in the third, our communication abilities, in the fourth, we grow aware of our family, and in the fifth, we start to choose our interests and passions more deliberately. The seventh house, which sits directly across from the first, is where we start to relate to the outside world and people that are separate from us. It teaches us how we coexist with others.

Our previous lives, karmic histories, subconscious mind, and other things are represented by the 12th and final house, which was transiting the horizon before we were born. For example, using the Whole Sign house system, the 12th house of a Leo rising would be in the sign of Cancer.

Various houses can be examined together for greater insight into an area of life. For instance, the second, sixth, and tenth houses can show your wealth, career advancements, and public status, whereas the fourth, eighth, and twelfth houses can reveal another layer of your intuitive abilities and what your deep inner self looks like.

Empty Houses

You will notice that certain houses are empty while viewing your natal chart or any other astrological chart.

Astrological charts will never have all houses occupied, so this is perfectly normal.

When a house is empty, it will function according to the Zodiac Sign it is in, and this area of life might not be one that you focus on a lot. When you want more insight into an empty house, simply look to the house + Zodiac sign that the ruling planet of the vacant house’s Zodiac sign occupies.

For example, if your second house is empty and in the sign of Libra, you can check your chart to see where Venus, the house’s ruler, is located. Let’s say that Venus is placed in Virgo’s 7th House of Relationships (Pisces). This will also influence your (empty) second house of wealth.

You can take a look at any aspects (the relationship of planets in respect of their position from one another, calculated by degrees) it may be involved in for more information on how it may manifest for you.

Also, keep an eye out for when planets are currently transiting your astrological houses. These transiting planets will light up whatever area of your life that house represents as they travel through.

For instance, changes to your health, daily routine, or career may result from planets transiting your sixth house. You can obtain an astrological transit report here for free (I personally recommend selecting Whole Signs in the extended settings because I find it easier to read and more accurate). A good astrologer will frequently also factor in the transits when crafting a horoscope for a client.

1st House of Self

The first house is referred to as the house of the self in astrology. It sets the Rising Sign or the Ascendant of a chart, which is the sign that was rising on the Eastern Horizon the moment you were born.

It represents the persona we like to project to the outer world and/ or what people typically believe about us when we first meet them. For example, if Scorpio is in your first house, you might come across to others as mysterious, strong, intuitive, etc. before they get to know you on a deeper level. You can look to the fourth house for the inner you that others usually get to know once they’ve grown past being an acquaintance or casual friend. (More on the fourth house below).

This also means that this house and any planet, asteroid, or astrological angle (in this case, the Ascendant), that is located within it have a significant impact on your physical body, your psyche, and your personal habits. As the first house of the self, it governs our approach to life and our basic foundations, key ideologies, physical attributes, general personality, and temperament.

Anything to do with aesthetics can be seen in the 1st house as well. The areas of the astrology chart closest to the ascendant govern the physical self, while those closer to the second house may relate more to individual behaviors, as well as your physical appearance, personal style, and everything else that is visible can be seen about you within the first house. Mercury is said to be in its astrological “joy” in the first house.

2nd House of Wealth & Values

Taurus naturally rules the second House, which is a representation of what we need and desire to acquire and own, what we value and enjoy, as well as our material possessions and wealth. It also speaks of our unique skills, values, and assets.

For example, if you have Cancer in this house, you’ll highly value your home and enjoy spending time there. You’ll likely enjoy taking care of others, and you might even earn money from a healing or creative pursuit. Natal planets in the second house will typically look for security in their physical surroundings.

The 2nd house also governs self-esteem as well as the relationship between possessing and feeling deserving. Along with the sixth and tenth houses, it is seen as a house that indicates the type of career a person pursues, how one goes about making money, and how they treat their personal belongings.

It’s important to note that the second house is best at predicting how to increase your material wealth and which jobs would result in decent financial gains, but it does not always necessarily indicate a profession that you would like.

3rd House of Community & Communication

Gemini naturally rules the third House, and it is where the Moon finds her “joy”, as the third house is also known as the house of the Goddess.

The 3rd House in astrology covers all forms of communication, our mental processes, our modes of expression, early learning, local transportation, and local communities, neighbors, as well as siblings.

This particular area of the natal chart also refers to one’s skills and talents (particularly to do with the hands, such as painting, rock climbing, or martial arts), correspondence, and short-distance travel.

The 3rd house, which has Mercury as its planet, is in charge of verbal exchanges and conscious communication style. As a result, the house integrates both communication-related activities and technology for disseminating information.

4th House of Roots

Our birth chart’s fourth House, which is originally the home of the sign of Cancer, is located at the very bottom of the chart. It speaks of our family relationships and deep inner selves, what brings us comfort, our early years and upbringing, our parents (particularly our Mother figure), as well as our actual physical home life and ancestry.

The 4th house may also be connected to our ancestry, inherited behaviors, and beliefs. For example, if Jupiter is located here, you might have been blessed with a large (possibly wealthy) family with fortunate, supportive relationships. Your spiritual growth could have been encouraged and nourished from early on. On the other hand, a planet like Saturn in the 4th house may signify poor family dynamics and a certain coldness, neglect, or even poverty growing up.

Typically, this house will also include the angle of your Imum Coeli (IC) which means “bottom of the sky” in Latin. Also known as the Nadir, it represents our origins and is considered a highly sensitive point. Planets that are close to or make an aspect to this angle may be of higher significance (along with the Ascendant, MC, and Descendant angles).

5th House of Happiness & Hobbies

Leo’s natural house, the fifth House, is where Venus is believed to find her joy. It refers to how we find happiness, our hobbies and favorite activities, as well as our creativity, fertility and children, sensuality, vitality, love life, and romance. 

For example, if Jupiter is in your fifth house, you might enjoy being active, participating in sports, traveling, or working with children. If the planet Mercury is in your fifth house, you may make a great teacher, actor, or dancer. With a planet like Pluto in the 5th, you could be obsessive in your creative and romantic endeavors and potentially like to party to extremes.

6th House of Work & Health

Mars is considered to find its joy in the sixth House, which is Virgo’s domicile.

Mercury, the planet that relates to analytical reasoning and communication, is the “night” governor of Virgo (in contrast to the “day” ruler of Gemini), therefore it tends to be more critical and focuses on the specifics of everyday life and rituals here.

The sixth also addresses our health and well-being because routines are what make us who we are. We are the sum of our behaviors and what we choose to do consistently. The little habits add up! As a result, the sixth house, also known as the House of Daily Rituals, represents our daily routines related to work, health, and pets.

7th House of Relationships

All of our interactions with others, including marital and business partnerships, fall under the purview of the seventh House. It is where the sign of Libra is at home.

Your Descendant sign (the point in your chart that is directly opposite your Ascendant) symbolizes what you seek out in others but may fail to embrace or recognize in yourself, and can also be found in the seventh house. This can reveal the qualities you yearn for or admire in others.

The key partners in your life that you attract and are attracted to will be represented by this house overall.

8th House of Rebirth

Scorpio naturally belongs in the eighth House. As it corresponds to all facets of Plutonism, including sovereignty and eroticism, death and rebirth, transformation, other people’s money, and shared resources, including taxes, inheritance, and financial assistance.

It is recognized as the house of death and taxes, intimacy and rebirth, as well as all things hidden, esoteric, or occult. The 8th house, along with the other Water houses (the 4th and 12th houses) can reveal one’s intuitive abilities.

Similar to Scorpio, the 8th house addresses the deeper questions in life in a way that is profound, impactful, real, and direct. Like the Death tarot card, the 8th house signifies the end of a phase or cycle.

9th House of Wisdom

Sagittarius’ natural house is the Ninth House, where the Sun is said to find its joy. It covers a wide range of topics like astrology, religion, spirituality, philosophies, higher education, and learning.

Like the sign of Sagittarius, it also covers travel and expanding one’s horizons. The ninth house is the realm of unadulterated law, reason, and intuition. Additionally, it stands for thesis submission, study, invention, discovery, and exploration.

10th House of Status

The tenth house, as its name suggests, is concerned with our calling, our careers and public personas, as well as our place in society and our legacy.

It is the natural domain of Capricorn. This is also typically where you will see the angle of your Midheaven or Medium Coeli (MC line), which means “middle of the sky” and refers to the highest point of your birth chart.

The tenth house, as well as the Midheaven line, frequently offer clues to your ultimate mark on the world and your role in society. Depending on the house system you’re using, the exact point of your MC line can change to the 9th or 11th Houses, adding qualities to these areas of life as well.

11th House of Friendships & Goals

The eleventh House oversees your aspirations and dreams as well as all different kinds of communities, friendships, and organizations. Jupiter finds joy here – it is also the natural house of Aquarius. 

For example, if Venus is in your 11th house, you could have pleasant friendships that usually bring you luck and happiness. Or you can fall in love with someone from your acquaintance circles or discover that networking and organizing groups, workshops, seminars, etc. is your passion.

12th House of Shadow

The twelfth House, which was historically known as the House before the Dawn, has come to represent the hidden and unknown as it is the house just behind the first house, the House of Self.

The 12th house, similar to the 8th house, is associated with mysteries and secrets, solitude, hospitals, psychiatric clinics, correctional facilities, phobias and fears, but also intuition, psychic abilities, the subconscious mind, past incarnations and karma. It is the location of natural beginnings and, by consequence, endings.

This house can also show foreign travel and business, as well as pursuits that require deep concentration, healing energy, or creativity, like lawyering, film directing, or counseling.

The 12th house is the original realm of Pisces, and Saturn finds joy here. It offers a chance to embrace the invisible world.

DISCLAIMER:

Sage & Moon is a participant in affiliate programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you choose to purchase through these links. Any product we choose is based on personal recommendations that we love and trust you will too. By using these links you are directly supporting us to keep writing + creating. Thank you!

The post The Twelve Houses & You: Astrological House Meanings (2025) appeared first on Sage & Moon.

One of the first steps in understanding how to work with the Moon is knowing what phase the Moon is currently in. There are four main phases: new moon (dark/zero illumination), first quarter (half light/half dark), full moon (full illumination), and last quarter (half dark/half light). On average, a complete cycle takes approximately 29.5 days from one new moon to the next new moon.

The phases are one of the most iconic and important ways to track the movement of the moon; each phase has its own meaning and significance, which can be used as a guide when making important life decisions, tracking your menstrual cycle, timing rituals or spellwork, and more!

In astrology, the Moon represents the unconscious mind, your instincts, and your inner self. It has a profound impact on our moods and emotions, as well as our thoughts and dreams. Adding even further depth to the natal chart, the phase of the moon when we were born (not just the sign and house placement) can tell us a lot about our lives and personalities.

In real-time, the phases of the Moon can also influence how we feel about ourselves and others, which can affect our decisions and actions. In general, new moons and full moons are considered to be the most significant moon phases, while the other six moon phases are more subtle shifts in energy that happen over the course of each month. Throughout any given lunar cycle, the Moon is a natural way to keep tabs on your emotional and energetic state.

Read on to learn more about all eight moon phases and their spiritual meanings!

New Moon

The New Moon phase occurs when the Moon appears completely dark during its cycle. It marks the onset of a new lunar cycle, which means that it’s an opportunity for renewal and beginnings.

When the Moon is new, we feel like it’s a good time to take a break from all that has been going on before. This is a great time for personal reflection and setting intentions for yourself, or for the month ahead. As the first phase, the New Moon beckons you to start fresh and let go of the old so you can embrace all the beautiful things the universe has in store for you!

Waxing Crescent

The Waxing Crescent Moon is associated with growth because it occurs when the crescent is growing from nothing up to fullness (waxing means growing or increasing). You may have noticed this pattern in your life; every time you start something new it starts as a seedling — small, vulnerable, and fragile — but over time it grows into something more substantial until finally, it reaches its full potential.

Similar to the New Moon, this phase corresponds with new beginnings and fresh starts, and the waves of growth that ensue. You may feel motivated to make changes or start new projects during this time. The Waxing Crescent Moon is a time of hope and building upon the new foundations you set forth during the New Moon. It’s when you have an opportunity to evolve, make changes, and create something new. The Waxing Crescent phase is all about growth and encourages you to let go of things that are no longer serving you in favor of new opportunities.

First Quarter Moon

The First Quarter Moon occurs when the Moon’s illuminated half has moved past the boundary between Earth’s shadow and sunlight. At this point, the Moon appears half illuminated by the Sun and half in shadow. The First Quarter also means that the Moon is halfway done waxing (growing) to a full lunation.

The First Quarter Moon carries several meanings across different cultures and religions – in some cultures, it represents a time of renewal and beginnings. In others, it symbolizes wealth and abundance. And in some other cultures, it signifies strength and power, but also great responsibility.

Most often, however, the First Quarter Moon is associated with action: things are happening now! We must use this energy wisely if we want to reach our goals successfully. In this phase, we can expect things to be getting better. The Moon’s light grows stronger as it gets closer to full strength. This can bring out feelings of happiness and positivity in people, and it often brings on changes in behavior. People might feel more energetic or like they have more energy to do things they haven’t done before. They might feel more inclined to socialize with others or go out into nature if they’re feeling down about life in general right now.

Waxing Gibbous

The Waxing Gibbous Moon signifies progress: things are moving forward! You can see how much closer you are getting to achieving whatever goal or dream you had set out for yourself at New Moon. This phase has light, bright, and positive energy. Like the Waxing Crescent and First Quarter phases, the Waxing Gibbous is leading up to (or growing toward) the Full Moon, indicating expansion and growth.

The Waxing Gibbous Moon phase is a good time to expand on existing projects as it suggests that you’re ready for more in your life! During this time, you may find yourself feeling more energetic or productive than usual. You may also notice that you feel more spirited and inspired. If you have big plans for the future or are working toward any goals, now is the perfect time to make them happen!

Full Moon

The Full Moon represents completion. It is associated with abundance, fertility, growth, and regeneration. The seeds of intention sown under the New Moon come to blossom under the fullness of the Moon.

In this phase, clarity and awareness rise. It allows you to see things clearly without any distractions or obstacles blocking your path forward. You’ll have a clear vision of what needs to be done in order to move forward with ease. This lunar energy can also help you get rid of any negativity that may have been holding you back in some way or another; it will help you clean up any messes that need fixing so they don’t continue to cause problems down the road!

The Full Moon is also known to give us more energy than usual (this is why people tend to feel more lively around Full Moons). Since the Moon is brimming at its brightest, this can also be a time when you are more sensitive than usual. If something doesn’t feel right to you, trust your instincts!

Waning Gibbous

The Waning (or decreasing) phases of the Moon represent preparing for renewal. The Waning Gibbous Moon is the first of the waning lunar phases, which occurs after the Full Moon when the Moon’s light begins to shrink towards the dark or new moon. The Waning Gibbous Moon has been associated with a time of rest, relaxation, and completion. It may also be associated with endings, especially those that are emotionally or physically draining.

This phase symbolizes reflection, assessment, and release. Leading up to the New Moon, the Waning Gibbous phase through the Waning Crescent are ideal times for looking inward, taking stock of your life, and letting go of things that do not serve you.

Last Quarter Moon

The Last Quarter Moon is the second to last phase of the lunar cycle. The energy of this phase continues to guide us toward getting rid of what we no longer want or need in our lives and making space for a fresh start.

The Last Quarter Moon is associated with endings that may come as a surprise or from an unexpected source. You may want to ask yourself if there are any changes you should make in order to feel better about where you are now. Or maybe there are habits or relationships that could use some improvement? If so, now is an excellent time to start making those changes!

As the Moon nears darkness, it is a beautiful time to sit still and reflect on the things you’ve learned over the past lunar cycle, as well as what you want to learn next. It’s a time of catharsis as well as being open to new ideas. As you reflect on what is ending or being released, consider what new beginnings await you.

Waning Crescent

The last phase of the Moon is the Waning Crescent, which comes just before a New Moon (and therefore the start of a new lunar cycle). This is considered to be one of the most powerful times for inner healing and shadow work, as you may feel the pull to let go of anything that isn’t working in your life. The Waning Crescent is all about moving on and is a great time to clear out the clutter in your life — whether that’s physical or emotional — so you can make space for new things to come.

This phase is also a great time to connect with your intuition and listen to what your body and soul need. While the Waxing Crescent Moon can be a time of building up energy and starting new projects or cycles, the Waning Crescent is for reflecting on your actions over the past Moon cycle and making sure they are aligning with what brings you happiness in life.

Because you’re so close to a New Moon, this is a good time for beginning to get organized, think about what goals you might set for yourself during the New Moon, and get ready for your next big project. Think about what you want to accomplish and what steps you need to take to get there.

The Waning Crescent is also associated with the Goddess Isis, who was known for her wisdom and healing abilities. As you step into this phase, consider what wisdom you need right now — from yourself or others — and ask yourself what you can do to heal.

“Each moon phase has a specific energy and can tell you something about your current or coming month.”

The Moon is a beautiful, powerful force — and you can use its phases to your advantage. Whether you’re using the Moon’s energy to bring about a specific change in your life or as a way to focus your intention, knowing how to work with the phases of the Moon is a potent way to more deeply connect with yourself, others, and the rhythms of Mother Nature.

Each phase of the Moon has a specific energy and can tell you something about your current or coming month. While there are many more meanings behind the moon’s phases to explore, this article is a good starting point in your journey of learning about the magic of the Moon. To learn more, check out our astrological library!

DISCLAIMER:

Sage & Moon is a participant in affiliate programs, including the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you choose to purchase through these links. Any product we choose is based on personal recommendations that we love and trust you will too. By using these links you are directly supporting us to keep writing + creating. Thank you!

The post Moon Phase Meanings (A Beginner’s Guide) [2024] appeared first on Sage & Moon.

When examining a natal chart, there are a few asteroids that are usually taken into consideration: Ceres, Pallas, Juno, and Vesta—collectively known as the asteroid Goddesses—are the four main asteroids of most significance. Other asteroids such as Chiron, Lilith, Hygeia, and Eros are also taken into account because together they have the greatest influence on our growth and makeup.

For example, Ceres is associated with nurturing, Pallas with creativity and wisdom, Juno with commitment and loyalty, and Vesta with spiritual dedication and focus. Chiron is “the wounded healer'” in the birth chart and shows where your wounds are your greatest strength; Lilith is your primal power and dark or wild feminine energy.

It is believed that the asteroid belt contains approximately 200 asteroids that can be studied astrologically, and the solar system contains over 21,000 named asteroids!

By taking into account the placement of these asteroids in your birth chart, you can gain a deeper understanding of your personality, your relationships, and your life goals. Exploring asteroids in astrology is an exciting way to dive deeper into the meaning of your chart, so don’t be afraid to give it a try!

In this cosmic guide, we will explore the meanings of asteroids in astrology, how they impact our lives, and what they reveal about our personalities and fate.

The Meaning of Asteroids in Astrology

In astrology, asteroids are thought to represent the energies of many of the archetypes found in ancient mythos and are frequently named after gods and goddesses from Greek and Roman mythology.

To contrast the more prominent use of the Yang or masculine energies in our solar system, several asteroids are named after Yin or feminine deities.

In contrast to the more dominant forces of the planets, asteroids frequently bring forth a more complex and nuanced (but still significant) expression in one’s life. There are more than a million asteroids in our solar system, but only a small number of them are now taken into consideration by most astrologers in practice.

They are typically only seen as significant when they are within a 1-3 degree orb because they are considered to be less influential than the natal planets, although they can still indicate some intriguing and powerful traits. Below, we’ll examine each of them in greater detail.

What the Asteroids Mean for You

You’ll need to know your exact time of birth, birth date, and location in order to find your asteroids and determine where they were when you were born, just as you would when checking the planets of your birth chart. You can find a free birth chart with asteroids here. Over at Sage & Moon, we prefer the Whole Signs House method because we believe it to be more accurate, and recommend using this house system, especially for beginners!

Asteroids are typically only given major importance if they fall within a 1-3 degree orb of the natal planets or sensitive points, such as the angles (ascendant/descendant and IC/MC), the nodes, etc. If they do not aspect any of your planets or sensitive points in your birth chart, then their sign + house placement can still offer insight into some astrological characteristics of yourself, however, their influence may not be as prominent in your life.

Below, we’ll cover the six main asteroids in astrology and what they mean for you!

Ceres

As the first asteroid to be discovered, Asteroid Ceres comes first on the list. Asteroid Ceres is named after the Roman goddess of crops, fertility, motherly love, and harvests. She is connected to the summertime, and it is thought that her joy caused the season to blossom.

In Greek mythology, she is referred to as Demeter, the goddess of the harvest. She entered a state of mourning after her daughter Persephone was taken by the God of the Underworld, Hades, and released only for six months of the year. As a result, we have the seasons.

Ceres stands for the organic cycles of life (which include our birth, death, and everything in between), our levels of autonomy and interdependence with others, as well as our self-care. The task of figuring out how we may begin to create wellness in our lives—mind, body, and spirit—is assigned to Ceres. The only person who can actually determine whether we succeed or fail in life is ourselves. Ceres can help us care for our inner child and show us how to be our own greatest parents.

In astrology, Ceres is considered to be the asteroid of nourishment.

Much like the archetype of The Empress in tarot, it serves as a sort of cosmic maternal figure for us, modeling for us what it takes to actually feed our soul and to feel secure, cared for, and content.

Ceres rules over the things that nurture you and bring you to balance, your life cycles and seasons, as well as the connections and emotions you have strong attachments to. It also occasionally speaks of things that may be a bit delicate, as well as where your skills lie in trying to heal others, similar to the asteroid Chiron.

Chiron differs from Ceres in that it shows us where our wounds can be alchemized into our greatest strength, whereas Ceres reveals the areas in which we already feel complete. She shows us where we naturally feel most at home, what makes us feel our absolute best, how we prefer to be loved and cherished, and how we nurture others in return.

Pallas

The Pallas asteroid represents our creative intelligence and strategic thinking. It symbolizes our ability to solve problems, make wise decisions, and see patterns and connections.

According to astrologers, the Pallas asteroid’s placement in our birth chart can indicate our approach to problem-solving, our leadership style, and our ability to plan and strategize. It is said to influence our capacity to think analytically, to see beyond the surface level of situations, and to use our intelligence in creative and innovative ways.

The Pallas asteroid is often associated with the sign of Virgo, which is known for its attention to detail and practical approach to problem-solving. However, its influence can be felt in any sign, depending on its placement and aspects in the birth chart.

Pallas is considered to be an important symbol of creative intelligence and strategic thinking in astrology, and its placement in the birth chart can provide valuable insights into our intellectual strengths and the ways we use our intelligence to navigate the world.

Juno

The Asteroid Juno is regarded as the asteroid of soulmates and deep commitment.

It is named after the Roman Goddess, Juno, from whom the month of June likewise derives its name because it has long been connected to marriage and weddings.

Juno was also known as the revered faithful Greek Goddess Hera, the Queen of Gods. She and Venus, who were both lawfully wed to Jupiter (the King of the Gods), were the only other women in all Olympia. Due to this, she has developed a strong association with wealth in astrology as well as relationships, love, passion, weddings, fidelity, and exclusivity.

The placement of Juno in your chart can indicate where/how you might find love, what you look for in a relationship, and how your partner affects your life.

Juno provides us with insight into our relationship needs, reasons for dating, and any attachment issues we may be dealing with. With its positioning, we can also identify what we would need for a lasting relationship as opposed to a passing fancy and how we might honor ourselves in a relationship without sacrificing our sense of self.

The focus of Juno’s work is on how to establish durable, loyal, egalitarian relationships, especially business partnerships. It is said to affect Taurus and Libra more strongly than the other signs. When unbalanced in a chart, Juno can accentuate instances of manipulation, co-dependency, envy, insecurity, and relational conflicts.

Vesta

Next up is the Asteroid Vesta, named after the Roman Goddess of Hearth, Home, and the sacred flame.

The Vesta asteroid represents our inner flame, dedication, and focus. It symbolizes the part of us that is deeply committed to our work, relationships, or causes, and that inspires us to pursue our goals with passion and determination.

In our birth chart, Vesta’s placement can indicate our capacity for concentration, our ability to focus on a task, and our commitment to our values and beliefs. It is said to influence our sense of purpose, our work ethic, and our capacity to maintain a healthy balance between our personal and professional lives.

Vesta is an important symbol of dedication and focus in astrology, and its placement in the birth chart can provide valuable insights into our personal and professional goals, as well as our ability to stay motivated and committed to our aspirations.

Chiron

The famous asteroid Chiron gets its name and meaning from the mythological centaur who was considered to be the wisest of all centaurs and a gifted healer.

Chiron was struck by a poisoned arrow and was unable to heal himself since he was immortal. Thus, Chiron is known as the “wounded healer” in astrology. Despite being subsequently saved and positioned among the stars, his image has come to stand for what is our greatest and most delicate wound in life. This wounding is the one that often takes a lifetime to mend, that we keep returning to and going through cycles with, but that ultimately will bring us the most reward.

Chiron teaches us that by overcoming our struggles and achieving wholeness, we can serve as effective role models for others who are seeking to treat similar wounds. Our wounds can open up the pathway to our deepest healing, as well as the healing of others. Essentially, Chiron is where we have the natural ability to heal others because we first had to heal ourselves.

For example, a person with Chiron in Gemini may continually feel stupid or incapable of expressing themselves freely, or they may alternate between talking openly to hardly talking at all. They may have repeated experiences of feeling misunderstood or unheard by others. However, these people are frequently gifted with Mercury’s talent for writing and speaking – in particular, they can give profound advice and catalyze healing through their words. They have the power to deeply connect with and influence people through verbal or written expression.

Eros

In astrology, the Eros asteroid is associated with passion, sensuality, desire, and attraction. It represents our deepest emotional and physical needs, as well as our ability to express affection.

According to astrologers, the Eros asteroid’s placement in our birth chart can indicate our romantic preferences, our approach to intimacy, and our capacity for pleasure. It is said to influence our level of energy, the types of people we are drawn to, and the intensity of our desires.

The Eros asteroid is often associated with the sign of Scorpio, which is known for its intense and passionate nature. However, its influence can be felt in any sign, depending on its placement and aspects in the birth chart.

Overall, the Eros asteroid is considered to be an important symbol of passion and desire in astrology, and its placement in the birth chart can provide valuable insights into our romantic lives.

Hygeia

The word “hygiene” is derived from Hygeia, which is referred to as the asteroid of health and healing. In both Ancient Greek and Roman mythology, Hygeia was the daughter of Asclepius (the God of Medicine) and is referred to as the Goddess of cleanliness, hygiene, and health. Her symbol, a single snake wrapped around a staff, is often confused with the Caduceus and they share a similar meaning. Ambulances are decorated with the symbol of Hygeia and it is also a part of the WHO logo.

Hygeia was one of five sisters who represented various facets of wellness and healing. As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and this was Her area of expertise. She governs maintaining one’s physical and mental well-being in order to fend off illness, rather than treating it once it struck.

As our culture turns more and more toward holistic medical practices (care that considers the entire component of mind-body-spirit) for better success, Hygeia may play an even bigger role in society. Holistic healers and medical doctors alike often have strong Hygeia placements.

The myriad of aspects that all contribute to our overall well-being, including your diet, exercise, and sleep, are indicated by where Hygeia is positioned in your chart. Depending on her placement in your horoscope, she may indicate how you take care of yourself when you are in need.

What practices do you use to make you feel nice, secure, good, healthy, lively, and whole? What other little but significant ways do you contribute to your health? Are you consuming enough (pure) water, feeding your body nutritious foods? Are you allowing yourself to breathe deeply enough? Hygeia can reveal to us what increases our tension, anxiety, and depressive symptoms when she is out of balance.

Lilith

Last but not least is Asteroid Lilith. In astrology, Lilith represents the primal and unexpressed aspects of femininity. It symbolizes the feminine energy that has been suppressed or rejected by society, and the part of ourselves that we may fear to express.

According to astrologers, the Lilith asteroid’s placement in our birth chart can indicate our relationship with power, creativity, and our ability to assert ourselves. It is said to influence our capacity to stand up for our needs, embrace our untamed nature, and tap into our deeper instincts.

The Lilith asteroid is often associated with the sign of Scorpio, which is known for its transformative and intense energy. However, its influence can be felt in any sign, depending on its placement and aspects in the birth chart.

Lilith is considered to be an important symbol of feminine power and rebellion in astrology, and its placement in the birth chart can provide valuable insights into our relationship with our own femininity and our ability to express ourselves authentically.

Get your FREE Natal Chart Analysis here!

Asteroids have been identified as having a powerful influence on our personalities, our relationships, and our fate. They can provide us with a greater understanding of the universe and our place within it.

By exploring the meanings of asteroids in astrology, we can gain a better understanding of our own lives and the paths we will take. We can also discover how our personalities, relationships, and destinies are being shaped by these influences.

So there you have it—the astrological significance of asteroids. We hope it has added some new insight to your birth chart! For further information, be sure to read our article on how to read your natal chart. You can also read about the stars in our Astrology Basics section or our Beginner’s Guide to Astrology.

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The post What Do Asteroids Mean in Astrology? (Chiron, Pallas, Juno & More!) appeared first on Sage & Moon.

In this beginner’s guide, we’ll introduce you to the fundamental concepts of astrology in a way that’s easy to understand, regardless of whether you’re a complete novice or have dabbled in horoscopes before. We’ll unravel the secrets of the zodiac, demystify horoscopes, and help you grasp the significance of your birth chart.

What is Astrology?

Astrology is a system of divination, a way to understand the universe and our place in it. The word astrology comes from the Greek words “astron,” meaning “star,” and “logia,” meaning “the study of.” It is the study of how the position of the stars and other celestial bodies can affect human behavior. Astrology has been dated back to at least the 1st millennium B.C., when Babylonian astrologers began using horoscopes to predict the future – and it’s still a popular practice today.

Astrology is based on the idea that the universe is a living entity, with a personality and energy, where all is connected. The planets have their own personalities, too. Astrologers believe that when we’re born, our personalities are reflected by the position of the stars at that time.

A variety of astrological charts can be cast, each rich with information, but the three most commonly used charts are the natal chart, transits chart, and synastry charts:

The natal chart is the map of where the planets were in the sky when you were born. It can be used to tell a lot about your personality, and it’s also a handy tool for finding out what’s coming up in your life.

A transit chart is a special kind of astrological chart that shows how planets move in relation to each other in one’s birth chart; it is used to show the effect that transiting planets have on your life and how they will affect you over time.

A synastry chart is a unique celestial map that shows the positions of the planets in the sky at the moment two different individuals were born. It’s a powerful tool for gaining insights into the dynamics and compatibility – this chart can reveal the strengths and challenges of a relationship, offering a glimpse into how two people may interact and connect.

Astrology can be used to answer an array of questions about human beings, nature, and the universe. Its main use is in determining information in areas such as individual personalities and relationships, events or phenomena (such as eclipses), and future events (such as solar and lunar activities).

The Zodiac Signs

Zodiac Signs are the twelve divisions of the ecliptic, which is the path that the sun takes through the sky. Each division has its own astrological sign and meaning, and each sign represents a different archetype.

The word “zodiac” comes from the Greek “zodiakos kyklos” meaning circle of animals. Ancient Greeks believed that each sign was associated with an animal symbol — which is why we still use those animals today! The signs are grouped into three “modalities” or modes: cardinal (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn), fixed (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius), and mutable (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces). Each sign is also associated with one of four elements: air, earth, fire, or water.

Every sign of the zodiac wheel is said to represent different archetypes, stages of life, and personality traits. Below, we’ll briefly cover each zodiac sign and what they mean:

ARIES (March 21 – April 19) / Aries is the first sign of spring and it represents the beginning of a new cycle in one’s life. These people are characterized by fiery personalities and impulsive natures. They react quickly to their emotions and can be quite stubborn. They are also very energetic.

TAURUS (April 20–May 20) / Taurus is the second sign of spring and it represents stability. The Taurus person is dependable and reliable; they like to take their time with everything they do because they believe in quality over quantity. Taurus people are known for their practicality. They’re reliable, hard-working, and not easily swayed by outside opinions or pressure.

GEMINI (May 21–June 21) / Gemini is the third sign of spring, embodying adaptability and versatility. Known for their inquisitive nature and quick-wittedness, they thrive on intellectual stimulation and have a penchant for exploring various interests due to their innate curiosity. Geminis are often seen as adaptable, open-minded, and sociable, readily engaging in a wide range of conversations and interactions.

CANCER (June 22–July 22) / Cancer is ruled by the Moon (and therefore Water), which makes it an emotional sign that’s ruled by intuition rather than logic or reason. Their moods tend to be unpredictable at times but they’re also highly intuitive about other people’s needs.

LEO (July 23–August 22) / This sign is associated with Fire (or the Sun), which makes Leos pretty confident in their abilities—sometimes too much so! But they can also be extremely creative when it comes time to solve problems creatively rather than logically.

VIRGO (August 23–September 22) / Ruled by Mercury. They are a mutable earth sign, which means they can be practical, while also being creative and imaginative. Virgos tend to be perfectionists who see the world through a logical lens.

LIBRA (September 23–October 23) / Libras are often artistic and have an eye for beauty, with a desire to create beauty themselves. Libra love being around other people and want to make everyone happy. Libras are known for their good humor, gentleness, and kindness. They are fair-minded people who enjoy mediating disputes between others.

SCORPIO ( October 24–November 21) / Scorpio is ruled by Pluto and Mars, and its element is water. Scorpios are passionate and dynamic, but also secretive. They’re very empathetic, but they guard their emotions fiercely. With a powerful and magnetic personality, they draw in both friends and enemies in equal measure. They can be very stubborn. Their sense of loyalty makes them a force for good in the world.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22–December 21) / Ruled by Jupiter. Sagittarians are known for their positive attitude, which can help them to be successful in life. They love to travel and learn new things, which makes them well-rounded individuals. Always open to new ideas and experiences, they are exciting companions to be around. Those born under this sign are known for their honesty and frankness; they don’t believe in sugarcoating things or beating around the bush when it comes down to it!

CAPRICORN (December 22–January 19) / Represented by the goat. Those who are born with the Capricorn sun sign meaning are often very focused on their goals in life, and they tend to be ambitious and goal-oriented people. They also have a tendency to be very practical, and they are very good at managing their money. They’re very reliable, dependable people who are great at making things happen.

AQUARIUS (January 20–February 18) / Aquarius is a fixed air sign, which means they are highly independent, intellectual, and creative. They tend to be friendly and outgoing. They do not like to be controlled and can be stubborn at times. Often seen as eccentric or even a little weird. They are always looking for the next thing to try. With their unique personalities and often non-traditional viewpoints, they sometimes have difficulty fitting in with mainstream society.

PISCES (February 19–March 20) / Pisces is ruled by Neptune, the planet of illusion and imagination. Pisceans are known for their intuition, empathy, and creativity. They are very sensitive and can sometimes be overwhelmed by their emotions. They are also highly intuitive, which makes them excellent at understanding other people’s feelings. Pisces is a water sign, so they tend to be very imaginative and creative in their daily life. They love to dream about things that don’t exist yet, so they’re often found daydreaming or coming up with new ideas.

Please keep in mind that these are general descriptions of the archetypes in their most basic forms and are by no means an exhaustive list of the traits associated with your Sun (“star”) Sign. In addition, our natal charts are immensely detailed and complex with a variety of interlaced factors. Various books and blog posts have been published on this subject, however, consulting a professional astrologer will give you the most accurate, personalized interpretation of your astrological placements.

The Planets

The planets in astrology are the same as the planets in our solar system. Although the Sun and Moon are luminaries and not technical planets, the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn make up the seven traditional celestial bodies in astrology.

The outer planets, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto are a more recent addition to astrological studies. Uranus was discovered by Sir William Herschel in 1781, and Neptune was found later on by Johann Galle at the Berlin Observatory on Sept 23rd, 1846. Pluto is the latest addition to the modern collection of planets, which was discovered by Clyde Tombaugh on January 18th, 1930 at Lowell Observatory in Arizona USA.

Each planet has specific characteristics and influences, which are represented by its placement in the sky and its relationship to other planets.

Here’s a quick review of the astrological planets and their meanings:

SUN / Ruler of Leo. Sun is a “planet” or luminary that symbolizes our identity and life force. Sun represents the energy we need to live and the health we enjoy. It also represents our personal power, which includes our self-esteem, will, and character. It represents our ego and how we project ourselves to others. It also represents our outward appearance, what we look like from the outside.

MOON / Ruler of Cancer. Represents our emotions and instincts, and thus has a profound influence on our moods and cycles. It also represents how we react to our environment. The moon rules over everything from your moods to your menstrual cycle—and if you’re looking for a more spiritual interpretation of your life, it can also symbolize your connection to the divine. It’s also associated with intuition and imagination. It also gives us insight into our past lives and those of others.

MERCURY / Ruler of Gemini & Virgo. Mercury is the planet of communication, education, and travel. It governs our ability to communicate effectively and efficiently, as well as how we learn. Mercury also rules over how we travel from place to place, including but not limited to the types of transportation we use.

VENUS / Ruler of Taurus & Libra. Venus is the planet of love and beauty, so it’s no surprise that it has a lot to do with how you look. Venus represents your personal style, values, and how you express yourself through art or creativity. Venus is also associated with money, as well as luxury items like jewelry or clothing; it governs our aesthetic sensibilities and appreciation for the finer things in life.

MARS / Ruler of Aries & Scorpio. Mars’ position in your horoscope indicates your natural tendencies when it comes to action, aggression, and assertiveness. Associated with the clarity and force of your personality, as well as your ability to assert yourself and make a mark on the world. It’s also associated with passion, desire, and the life force in general. Also represents carnal drive and energy.

JUPITER / Ruler of Sagittarius & Pisces. Jupiter means expansion, growth, and opportunity. It is the planet of good fortune and abundance, which is why it’s often associated with luck. Jupiter’s placement in your chart indicates where you are likely to experience the most abundance in your life. It also indicates where you’ll have opportunities to grow or expand—whether that be through travel or education, or by finding new ways to make money or add value to yourself or others.

SATURN / Ruler of Capricorn & Aquarius. Saturn is the planet of focus, discipline, boundaries, and responsibility. It represents the part of us that wants to get stuff done and make our goals a reality. Saturn is often associated with hardships and difficulties, but it’s also associated with the ability to overcome those things. When we’re able to grow from our challenges and obstacles instead of being defeated by them, we can use what we learned from them to achieve even greater things in the future.

URANUS / Co-Ruler of Aquarius. Uranus is the planet of change, revolution, and innovation. Uranus is also known as “The Awakener,” because it awakens us to new ways of thinking and being. Uranus represents the desire to break free from old patterns or habits that no longer suit us, so we can embrace something new—something better! Also symbolizing rebellion and independence, Uranus is the planet of your future; it’s a planet that represents your potential and growth.

NEPTUNE / Co-Ruler of Pisces. Neptune is the planet of imagination, dreams, and spiritual growth, as well as illusion, deception, and confusion. It symbolizes our ability to see things in a new way, to transform ourselves and our lives through imagination and creativity. It also represents our ability to find new ways of creating meaning in life.

PLUTO / Co-Ruler of Scorpio. Pluto is the planet of transformation and renewal. It’s associated with power and control, but also with destruction and rebirth. Pluto’s influence over us is about death and rebirth, and how we deal with our own mortality. It represents how we go through life cycle changes, like childhood to adulthood, or relationships ending in death (or divorce). Pluto also tells us how to confront what scares us and move past it.

The Houses

Houses in astrology are a way to divide up the sky into segments. There are 12 houses in total; each house represents a different aspect of your life, like home and work, and they can help you figure out what’s going on in those areas. There are 12 houses in total, each one representing a different area of life. The first house is the house of self, and it represents things like personality and appearance. The second house is the house of money and resources. The third house is the house of siblings, neighbors, and short trips. And so on!

Below, we’ll cover a brief overview of the twelve astrological houses and what they mean:

1ST HOUSE / The House of Self. The first house represents your personality, your appearance, and your physical body as a whole. It’s also called the “significator of self,” which means that it shows how others see you and how you view yourself. It is also how you go about interacting with your environment and the kind of energy you put into the world. It is your self-identity, as well as what you’re most comfortable with. It’s also the place where you tend to put your energy and effort into developing and expressing yourself.

2ND HOUSE / The House of Value. The second house is associated with wealth, as well as our sense of self-worth and personal power. It also represents our ability to maintain and enjoy the fruits of our labor. It’s also known as the money house, and it covers everything from your ability to earn money to how you manage it, including your income, savings, investments, and other financial matters. This house rules over personal possessions, such as clothing, jewelry, and cars.

3RD HOUSE / The House of Communication. The third house represents communication, siblings, short trips, and education. It also governs writing, speaking, and all forms of communication. It is the area of life that you share with other people, including your family and friends. The 3rd house is also how comfortable you are expressing yourself to others, what kind of education you received as a child, and how open and honest you are in your everyday interactions with others. It’s also where you find your curiosity about the world around you.

4TH HOUSE / The fourth house is the house of security. It represents your psychological roots and the foundation of your life — your family, your home, and your early childhood — and how those things shape who you are today. It’s also the place where you can retreat when you need a break from the world.

5TH HOUSE / The 5th house is known as the House of Creativity. It represents the things that bring you the most joy and pleasure, like fun times with friends, good food, and love. The fifth house is associated with children, play, creativity, and romance. It’s also associated with travel and education. It shows your talents and hobbies, as well as your hopes and dreams for the future.

6TH HOUSE / The House of Responsibilities. The 6th house is the house of health and service. It also rules your daily routine, your habits, and your work-related activities. The 6th house is your health and well-being, as well as your responsibilities. This house governs your ability to take care of yourself and those around you, so it’s important not to ignore this aspect of your life.

7TH HOUSE / The House of Partnerships. The Seventh House is the house of all the other people in your life. This includes friends, family, coworkers, and all other people who are not you. It is in this house that you learn how to interact with others, how to deal with them when they annoy or anger you, and how to compromise and work together on projects. This is the house that rules marriage, partnership, and other types of relationships. It’s also the house of partnerships and alliances, whether romantic, platonic, or strictly business. In general, it’s about how you relate to others.

8TH HOUSE / The House of Intimacy & Transformation. The eighth house is all about what you keep to yourself. It’s where you keep all your secrets and is associated with matters of intimacy, death, and other peoples’ finances. It’s also where we can look to find out how comfortable you are with vulnerability and intimacy (or not), which makes it a great place to start when trying to understand yourself better or explore your relationships with others. The eighth house is all about facing your fears, getting in touch with your inner power, and transforming yourself in order to move forward in life.

9TH HOUSE / The House of Expansion. The ninth house signifies the search for meaning in the universe and how we fit into it. The ninth house is the house of long-distance travel and higher education. It also represents philosophy, religion, law, and other areas of study that are considered to be outside of the everyday world. The ninth house rules all of these things, as well as any travels you may make for those purposes.

10TH HOUSE / The House of Reputation. The tenth house is associated with your image and overall success in the world. The tenth house represents your public life—your career and your reputation—and it shows how you will interact with other people. It also reflects your ambitions and goals. If this house is well-aspected by planets, then you are likely to achieve success in your career (or any other area of achievement).

11TH HOUSE / The House of Goals & Community. The 11th house represents friends, groups and clubs, and any other connections you have to people in your life. It is also associated with your hopes and wishes for yourself and others – this can include your family members or friends, as well as any groups of which you are a part. The eleventh house can be a place where you see yourself achieving your goals and manifesting your dreams—so it’s a good idea to pay attention to it!

12TH HOUSE / The House of Hidden Traits. The 12th house is associated with the subconscious mind, instincts, and hidden information. It’s also associated with endings and renewal. The twelfth house can be a place of spiritual growth and learning, but it’s also said to be the most difficult house in astrology because it’s so deeply connected to our unconscious mind. Reactions here are often unexpected and spontaneous, which can make them hard to predict or control.

Astrology is a great way to understand yourself & others better.

So there you have it — our beginner’s introduction to astrology — I truly hope you enjoyed it! It can be a lot to take in at once, but hopefully, this article has helped you learn the basics of astrology and understand how it works.

Remember that this is a generalized, beginner’s guide, and that there is a TON of additional information out there on these topics! We are all very complex beings and cannot be summed up in a few sentences. Although it is a fascinating topic, understanding your personal natal chart requires much investigation and individual interpretation.

Overall, astrology is a really entertaining and practical tool that can help you more deeply understand yourself and others. To learn more, be sure to check out our Astrology Basics section!

The starry vault of heaven is in truth the open book of cosmic projection, in which are reflected the mythologems, i.e., the archetypes. In this vision astrology and alchemy, the two classical functionaries of the psychology of the collective unconscious, join hands.

C.G. JUNG

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In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the depths of Annual Profections, understanding their essence, how to calculate them and your ruling planet for the year, as well as what it means to experience an Annual Profection through all twelve houses.

What Are Annual Profections?

Annual Profections trace their origins back to Hellenistic astrology, a rich tradition that flourished during the Hellenistic period in ancient Greece and Egypt. This technique operates on the principle that each year of our lives is governed by a particular house and its ruling planet.

At its core, Annual Profections is a method of time measurement. It assigns each year of our lives to a specific house, starting from the house associated with our birth year and progressing cyclically through the twelve houses. This annual progression provides valuable insights into the dominant themes and areas of focus for each year.

Your birthday serves as a celestial reset button, signaling the beginning of a new Annual Profection year. It marks a pivotal moment when the cosmic clock rewinds and bestows you with a fresh set of energies and opportunities.

The ruling planet of the house your annual profection falls in plays a pivotal role, too, acting as the lens through which the energies and events throughout that year may manifest in your life.

Each of the twelve houses represents specific aspects of your life, such as self-image, relationships, career, and spirituality. Understanding the themes associated with each house allows you to grasp the overarching energies that will shape your experiences throughout the year.

How To Calculate Your Annual Profections

To calculate your Annual Profections, you can use an astrological annual profection calculator (our favorite is this calculator from Astro Seek), or consult guidance from an astrologer to unveil this vital piece of your cosmic puzzle.

Once you’ve figured out your annual profection, look to see what planet is ruling the house your annual profection is falling in. This will give you even more insight into the themes and experiences of that particular year!

For example, if you were born with Aries rising and you are currently in the year where your annual profection falls in the fourth house (Cancer), your current profection is governed by the Moon, infusing your year with a lunar quality.

Here’s a brief list of the qualities and experiences associated with each ruling planet in an astrological annual profection year:

SUN: A year ruled by the Sun emphasizes individuality, self-expression, leadership, and personal growth. It may bring opportunities for recognition, success, and creative endeavors. Focus on self-confidence, vitality, and asserting your identity.

MOON: The Moon ruling year highlights emotional sensitivity, intuition, and nurturing. It’s a time for inner reflection, developing emotional intelligence, and strengthening your connection with family and home. Focus on self-care, intuition, and cultivating emotional stability.

MERCURY: A Mercury ruling year emphasizes communication, learning, and intellectual pursuits. With Mercury guiding your year, you can expect to be expanding your knowledge, honing skills, and engaging in effective communication. Focus on learning, networking, and expressing your ideas clearly!

VENUS: A Venus ruling year emphasizes relationships, love, beauty, and harmony. Cultivate healthy partnerships, enhance your social life, and appreciate aesthetics! Focus on love, self-care, improving your appearance, and fostering harmonious connections.

MARS: A Mars ruling year highlights energy, action, courage, and assertiveness. Take some risks, pursue your passions, and make things happen! Take action! Focus on physical activities, setting goals, asserting yourself, and overcoming obstacles.

JUPITER: A Jupiter ruling year emphasizes growth, expansion, abundance, and luck. You can expect opportunities, personal development, and a broadening of your horizons. Focus on education, travel, spiritual growth, and seeking new experiences!

SATURN: A Saturn ruling year emphasizes discipline, responsibility, structure, and long-term goals. Saturn often requires hard work, self-discipline, and building solid foundations. Focus on career, organization, planning, and taking on responsibilities.

URANUS: A Uranus ruling year highlights change, innovation, freedom, and individuality. Embrace unconventional ideas, break free from limitations, and explore new possibilities! Focus on personal growth, embracing uniqueness, and adapting to unexpected changes.

NEPTUNE: A Neptune ruling year emphasizes imagination, intuition, spirituality, and creativity. With Neptune governing your year, you may find yourself exploring your dreams, engaging in artistic pursuits, and deepening your connection to the divine. Focus on introspection, meditation, artistic expression, and developing intuition.

PLUTO: A Pluto ruling year highlights transformation, power, regeneration, and self-discovery. It’s a year for inner growth, releasing old patterns, and experiencing profound shifts. Focus on self-reflection, releasing the past, embracing personal power, and undergoing transformative changes.

Annual Profections through the Houses

Each house represents a specific area of life. As you age and your annual profection moves through the houses, it indicates the primary focus for that year.

Here are some general predictions for each house during the Annual Profections cycle:

1st House (Self & Identity)

The 1st house rules over self and personal identity. When the profection falls here, it suggests a year focused on self-expression, personal development, and new beginnings. You may experience changes in your appearance or have a strong desire to assert your individuality.

2nd House (Finances & Values)

The 2nd house represents finances, possessions, and self-worth. During a 2nd house profection, you might focus on financial matters, including income, savings, and investments. It’s a time to assess your values, develop your resources, and work on improving your financial situation.

3rd House (Communication & Learning)

The 3rd house deals with communication, learning, and short journeys. When profections occur here, it indicates a year of increased communication, learning opportunities, and networking. You might engage in more social interactions, start new courses, or embark on short trips that expand your knowledge.

4th House (Home & Family)

The 4th house is associated with home, family, and roots. During a 4th house profection, you might experience changes in your domestic life, such as moving, renovating, or spending more time with family. It’s a time to focus on your emotional well-being, nurturing your inner self, and strengthening your sense of belonging.

5th House (Creativity & Romance)

This house represents creativity, romance, and self-expression. A profection in the 5th house suggests a year filled with opportunities for self-expression, creative pursuits, and romantic experiences. It’s a time to explore your passions, engage in artistic endeavors, or deepen your relationships.

6th House (Work & Health)

The 6th house deals with work, health, and daily routines. When the profection falls here, it indicates a year focused on your physical well-being, work responsibilities, and establishing healthy habits. You might find yourself taking on new work projects, reevaluating your routines, or prioritizing self-care.

7th House (Partnerships & Relationships)

The 7th house is about partnerships, relationships, and significant others. During a 7th house profection, you may experience developments in your relationships, both personal and professional. During this profection, you may find yourself cultivating harmony, negotiating contracts, and seeking mutually beneficial connections or partnerships.

8th House (Transformation & Intimacy)

The 8th house is associated with transformation, shared resources, and deeper psychological matters. When profections occur here, it suggests a year of deep introspection, transformation, and potential inheritances or financial partnerships. During an 8th house profection, explore your inner depths, release what no longer serves you, and work on financial planning.

9th House (Expansion & Higher Learning)

The 9th house relates to higher education, philosophy, and long-distance travel. A profection in the 9th house suggests a year of intellectual growth, expanded horizons, and spiritual exploration. You might have opportunities to travel or study abroad, engage in philosophical discussions, or embark on a quest for higher knowledge.

10th House (Career & Public Image)

The 10th house deals with career, reputation, and public image. During a 10th house profection, you may experience advancements in your career, increased visibility, or changes in your professional goals. It’s a time to focus on your ambitions, establish your authority, and work towards achieving your long-term objectives.

11th House (Community & Social Connections)

This house represents friendships, social networks, and aspirations. When the profection falls here, it suggests a year of increased social interactions, networking, and pursuing your dreams. You might join new groups, make new friends, or actively work towards your aspirations. During an 11th house profection year, connect with like-minded individuals, collaborate on projects, and seek support from your social circle to manifest your goals.

12th House (Spirituality & Inner Journey)

The 12th house represents solitude, spirituality, and hidden matters, so during a 12th house profection, you may experience a period of introspection, reflection, and spiritual growth. Use this profection year as an opportunity to explore your subconscious, release old patterns, and engage in activities that nourish your soul. Also, pay close attention to your dreams and intuition as they may provide valuable insights!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Annual Profections in Astrology offer a valuable tool for gaining insights into the themes and events that may unfold during a particular year of your life.

The twelve houses each represent different aspects of life, ranging from personal identity and self-expression to relationships, career, and spirituality. As one’s annual profection moves through each house, it highlights the corresponding areas of life that may take center stage during that year.

However, it’s important to remember that astrology is a complex and multifaceted practice. Annual Profections should be used in conjunction with other astrological techniques and considerations for a more comprehensive analysis. Your individual birth chart, planetary transits, and aspects all contribute to the overall picture of your life’s journey.

That’s all for our astrological annual protections mini guide! To learn more, check out our Transits & Forecasts section for cosmic weather predictions or our Astrology for Beginners Guide!

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