A beginner’s guide to astrology

ANOUSHKA MEKERIRA

Astrology is a field of study that involves forecasting earthly and human events through observing and interpreting the fixed stars, the sun, the moon, and the planets. It is an ancient and compelling aspect of people’s lives. Astrology originated with the Babylonians developing their form of horoscopes around 2,400 years ago. Then around 2,100 years ago, astrology spread to the eastern Mediterranean, becoming popular in Egypt. The zodiac, the 12 signs listed in a horoscope, are closely tied to earthly movements through the heavens. The sun sign dictates your zodiac personality and is influenced by your day and month of birth. Many other factors affect your zodiac personality, but your sun sign is like the cover of the book.

Pisces (February 19 - March 20)

Pisces is symbolized by two fish swimming in opposite directions, representing the constant division of Pisces' attention between fantasy and reality. As the final sign in the zodiac calendar, Pisces has absorbed every lesson. Pisces people are known for being sensitive, gracious, and emotionally aware. Pisces characters are regarded for being among the most sympathetic of the zodiac signs.

Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)

Despite “aqua” in its name, Aquarius is an air sign. Aquarius is represented by the water bearer, the mystical healer who bestows water or life upon the land. Accordingly, Aquarius is the most humanitarian astrological sign. Aquarians are future-oriented people, often described as visionaries. They are also very intelligent and proudly original.

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)

Capricorn is represented by the sea-goat, a mythological creature with the body of a goat and the tail of a fish. Capricorns are skilled at navigating both the material and emotional realms. They're ambitious, organized, practical, goal-oriented, and they don't mind the hustle.

Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)

Sagittarians are always on a quest for knowledge. The fire sign launches its many pursuits like blazing arrows and chases after geographical, intellectual, and spiritual adventures. Sagittarius natives are loyal, intelligent, assertive, and compassionate personalities.

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

Scorpio has incredible passion and power. The water sign, often mistaken for a fire sign, derives its strength from the psychic, emotional realm. Scorpios are extremely deep, intense, and emotional people. They're natural leaders and can be very serious.

Aries (March 21 - April 19)

Aries is spontaneous and courageous. They have a strong sense of adventure and like to explore. They have high energy and initiate quick actions. Aries loves to be number one, so it’s no surprise that these audacious rams are the first sign of the zodiac.

Libra (September 23 - October 22)

Libra is an air sign represented by the scales (fun fact: the only inanimate object of the zodiac), an association that reflects Libra's fixation on balance and harmony. Libras are obsessed with symmetry and strive to create equilibrium in all areas of life.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)

Taurus is an earth sign that is represented by the bull. Like their celestial spirit animal, Taureans enjoy relaxing in serene, bucolic environments surrounded by soft sounds, soothing aromas, and succulent flavors.

Gemini (May 20 - June 21)

Appropriately symbolized by the celestial twins, this air sign was interested in so many pursuits that it had to double itself. Geminis can be flexible, extroverted, and clever, but they can also be indecisive, impulsive, unreliable, and nosy.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)

Cancer is a cardinal water sign. Represented by the crab, this crustacean seamlessly weaves between the sea and shore representing Cancer’s ability to exist in both emotional and material realms. They place a high value on family and close friends and will go to great lengths to defend them, no matter the price.

Leo (July 23 - August 22)

Known as the more loud and confident sign, these spirited fire signs are the kings and queens of the celestial Sahara. Leo is represented by the lion. They are delighted to embrace their royal status: vivacious, theatrical, and passionate, Leos love to bask in the spotlight and celebrate themselves.

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)

Virgo is an earth sign historically represented by the goddess of wheat and agriculture, an association that speaks to Virgo’s deeprooted presence in the material world. Virgos are logical, practical, and systematic in their approach to life.