HOW TO READ YOUR NATAL CHART
Look at the image above. A natal chart or wheel is divided into twelve pieces, called Houses. The number of each House is shown in the center of the wheel. You may also think of this wheel as a pie. Each pie piece contains some information. As you read through your Chart Interpretation below, remember to also look to the legends on each side of the wheel in the image above. Find the icon representing the planet or sign, then find out where it lands in your chart. This will help you learn how to reference your chart as you read through the interpretation.
READING the ASPECTS
The way an aspect works in the chart is that it is the force behind the person. Your astrological signs in the Houses show your personality traits - the aspects are planetary and show what you do with your personality traits - how you act within your environment.
A Natal chart is a 360 degree circle, divided into twelve pieces, representing the twelve Houses. Each House is 30 degrees wide. An aspect occurs when one planet is within a certain number of degrees from another planet.
The major aspects which I discuss in a Natal reading are as follows:
Conjunct - planets at zero degrees from each other - that is, right next to each other in a chart. This aspect can either be a positive or a negative one, depending on the planets in question.
Square - planets at 90 degrees from each other in a chart. Known as a Hard Aspect, because this aspect usually represents some sort of imbalance which needs to be adjusted in dealing with your past vs. your future. Squares represent an issue which will come around again and again unless you learn to resolve it.
Opposition - planets at 180 degrees from each other - that is - directly across or opposite the chart from each other. Also known as a Hard Aspect, generally representing an imbalance which needs to be addressed NOW. This is a conflict, a battle of one planet's qualities against another's in your chart. How you resolve the opposition and balance yourself again is up to you.
Trine - planets at 120 degrees from each other in a chart. Known as a Soft Aspect, because it shows you what your ability and talent is - a Trine tells you it's okay to act on this, or Be a certain way.
Sextile - planets at 60 degrees from each other in a chart. Also known as a Soft Aspect, a Sextile gives you the ability to shine, to accomplish your goals, and shows open doors. It's up to you to act on the information gifted to you by a Sextile aspect.
Let's have a look at an aspect in your chart. For example, if you look at the triangular-shaped grid in the image above, your chart shows a square between Mercury and Saturn. You see this by finding the little green square (which is the symbol for a square - see the legend to the right of the grid). Follow the grid line across to see the symbol for Saturn. Follow the grid line down to the bottom, to see the symbol for Mercury. I hope this helps when reading your Natal Chart Interpretation below!
Your Natal Chart Interpretation contains two parts - Part One represents the inner you, while Part Two represents the outer you.
In Part One: The Inner You, you will read two sections concerned with your individual traits:
The first section describes your ego (sun), emotional make-up (moon), learning and intellectual orientation (Mercury), relationships and sociability (Venus), and the expression and focus of your physical energy (Mars).
The second section describes how well you deal internally with the external situations that you experience in life. Your capacity for happiness (Jupiter), ability to tolerate restrictions and frustrations (Saturn), how you are associated with or relate to new or innovative ideas and methods, and radical ideas and events that upset the status quo (Uranus), how you are associated with or affected by public ideals, morality, and spirituality (Neptune), and how you are associated with or affected by public policies toward crime, toward the power of government and industry, and toward exploration, development, conservation and distribution of natural resources (Pluto).
In Part Two: The Outer You, you will read about the twelve Houses of the horoscope. The Houses represent areas of life in which you operate on a daily basis. You will read descriptions of how you handle the circumstances you encounter in each of these areas according to your nature, personality and other traits, as they were outlined in Part One.
PART ONE: THE INNER YOU
SUN
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The sun rules will power and ego. It is the core of your potential and uniqueness as an individual; who you are and what you are about. It represents the main direction and focus you want your life to take, and your determination to accomplish what you set out to do. It is your personal honesty and integrity, and the ability to command respect and authority, to impress and influence others.
SUN in GEMINI
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As the third sign of the zodiac, Gemini represents the third stage in the evolution of humanity and one's place in the universe. Gemini goes beyond the Aries need for the raw energy of survival and the Taurus need to physically touch and experience the material world. In Gemini, it is the intellect that humanity needs to develop in order to understand the universe. This stage is concerned primarily with information-gathering and Geminis never seem to stop collecting it. They need to express ideas and share information with others, but what they do with their information is another matter. The mature Gemini becomes a serious scholar and careful researcher. The immature Gemini turns into a gossip and the proverbial "jack-of all-trades and master of none".
Geminis readily adapt to change. This trait is a strength because it is a survival mechanism, and a weakness because it makes them vulnerable to the demands and influence of other people. The Twins are the astrological symbol of Gemini. Adopting a twin-like similarity to other people is easy for Geminis. They not only have a unique ability to understand what others are thinking, they also possess great cleverness for imitation. In this way they can maneuver themselves into many favorable positions. They can also lose sight of their own talents and ideas by being too willing and able to adopt the traits and immerse themselves in the personal situations of others. They tend to say what others want to hear instead of saying what they really think, or what they know to be the truth.
Geminis react intellectually to everything they experience in life. That is, before they take physical action, before they assess the practical worth of something, and before they sort out their true emotions, they try to analyze things objectively as a kind of mental exercise. Though it is generally not a true assessment, the intellectual orientation of Geminis can make it appear to others as though they are unfeeling or emotionally superficial.
Mercury, planet of the intellect (and communication in general) rules the sign Gemini. Those born with Sun in Gemini are talkative, quick witted, and have innate curiosity about everything. They keep themselves in a constant state of busyness, running here and there on errands or traveling from one city to another. Natural versatility and ever-changing interests give Geminis their multifaceted personalities. The eagerness and interest they have in what's going on around them contributes to an appearance of youthfulness (both physical and psychological) that most of them manage to retain throughout life. They have to learn to concentrate on one thing at a time, or at least on what they know can be accomplished efficiently and well. Easily jumping from one subject to another, they forget that others are not so nimble. They often have to be reminded to slow down and let others catch up with what they're talking about. They also have to be reminded to stop talking once in a while and listen. Sometimes they neglect to get all the facts before repeating information. Though they can be secretive about their personal affairs, they love to learn about everyone else. They enjoy mysteries and intrigue and don't mind becoming involved in behind the scenes antics of one sort or another. Always wanting to know everything gives them quite a store of information which in turn, makes them more interesting to others. Add to that their cheerful, friendly dispositions, and it isn't surprising that they get along so well in the world.
Since they are apt to spend more time talking than eating, many Geminis are able to stay fairly slim. Their body is usually very flexible and agile, and they enjoy gymnastics, bicycling, swimming, and other activities that keep them physically fit. Favorite sports are tennis, racquetball and similar games in which they can participate with a partner. As a rule, they are adept at tinkering with mechanical devices or doing repair work. Gemini talents also include design, interior decoration, arts and crafts, magic and illusion, and music.
Gemini colors are yellow and light blue. Vulnerable parts of the body are the arms, hands, fingers, lungs, and nervous system. Respiratory problems and various nervous conditions are common Gemini complaints. Agates are traditional Gemini birthstones. Appropriate to the multifaceted Gemini personality, this mineral is streaked with many colors. It may seem Gemini is scattered and thus weakened by the wide range of interests and abilities, but the steel-like hardness of agate is a reminder that the Gemini personality and character can be just as strong as it is varied. Gemini flowers include the lilac, azalea, and lily-of-the-valley.
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SATURN
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Saturn rules responsibilities, restrictions and limitations you are apt to encounter, and the lessons you must learn in life. It does not deny or diminish imagination, inspiration, spirituality, and good fortune but it does demand that these things be given structure and meaning.
SATURN in AQUARIUS
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Individuals with natal Saturn in Aquarius are confronted with situations that in order to be successful need organization, dedication and stability, yet must also have room for freedom and original thinking. Somehow they have to effectively deal with the conflict between control and non-control. They are responsible for wise use of freedom, as well as accepting (or imposing) the rigidity of organization and discipline that are also necessary if anything is to be accomplished.
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PLUTO
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Pluto takes approximately 248 years to make one cycle through all twelve signs. The period Pluto spends in each sign can vary from twelve years to thirty two years due to the eccentricity of its orbit. Like atomic energy (a force ruled by Pluto), the presence and direction of Pluto's energy are never obvious until it is used. Pluto's influence in any sign is interpreted as generational or historical. In your personal life, Pluto's significance is interpreted from its house position and the aspects it makes to other natal planets in your horoscope. Pluto rules intense energy, and describes the areas in which you consciously or subconsciously seek to exercise power or control. Pluto is also linked to your karmic responsibility, and in this respect, it describes the areas where you must gain the deepest level of understanding.
PLUTO in VIRGO
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Pluto's last period in Virgo was 1957-1971. Virgo rules health, practical applications of science and technology, and the work force. During the recent Pluto transit in Virgo, the general state of America's health and welfare underwent unprecedented changes, computers came of age, and the once powerful unions experienced great loss of influence.
PART TWO: THE OUTER YOU
HOUSE 1
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The first house and the sign that rules the first house, which is also known as the Ascendant or Rising sign, describes your outer personality and physical attributes. To some extent it also describes your health and the type of illnesses you may experience.
LEO ASCENDANT
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A Leo Ascendant indicates individuals who are likely to have strong physiques and lots of physical stamina. They are very stubborn and find it extremely difficult to break undesirable habits and behavior patterns. However, their tenacity and stamina can also be wonderful assets. When they get involved in something, they hang on long after everyone else runs out of steam, and they inspire others with their devotion to ideals and principles.
Leo indicates energy and enthusiasm. Once motivated, they seldom hesitate to act. In spite of their energy and enthusiasm however, they can also be inclined to physical laziness. Their natural enthusiasm is responsible for overabundance and a tendency to overestimate everything. When buying various personal items, for example, they often acquire far more than they need. Though often rash and hasty, their passions are sincere.
Leo is ruled by the sun, ruler of willpower and egotistical drives. It indicates the conscious or subconscious need to dominate, especially in those with more aggressive personalities. They want to have the last word in everything, and may come to believe their opinion is the only one worth considering. The negative potential for Leo Ascendant individuals is evidenced in those whose ego-driven personalities turn them into manipulative, power-oriented demagogues. Though most Leo Ascendant individuals are apt to be outgoing, they are not necessarily aggressive or loudly gregarious. Their personalities will be greatly influenced by the nature and strength of their willpower and ego involvement. If the willpower and ego are not strong, then neither is the personality apt to be assertive. No matter what the rest of the world may think of them, it is meaningless compared to what they think of themselves. Intense self-absorption makes it hard to accept guidance from others, and they may feel taking or asking for advice from others is a sign of weakness. They enjoy associating with others who make them appear at their best. They have great generosity, and their warm, friendly approach wins many friends, as well as inspires the envy of others with less popular personalities. Life will rarely be a routine existence.
They are apt to be very creative with special talent or ability in art, music, or the entertainment and communication industries. Overwork, anxiety, heart problems, lower back pains, and ailments connected with overindulgence are their most likely physical complaints.
HOUSE 2
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The second house describes material assets, how you handle monetary income, and the potential ways it may be earned. It also indicates the values and priorities you establish throughout life.
LEO on 2nd HOUSE
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Leo ruling the second house indicates individuals with a need for possessing advantages. These advantages are linked to their egos and are not necessarily always represented by money or material assets. These individuals may, for example, be more interested in gaining power or personal status by having important friends or acquaintances. Their schemes for attaining what they want can be original and creative, as well as grandiose and unrealistic. Their goals are not always self-centered. They can be very altruistic and include charitable or philanthropic endeavors. How well they handle what they gain, or even if they will succeed in getting what they want, is another matter and not determined solely by Leo's influence on the second house. The point is, that they tend to measure their own self worth by material possessions, power or status, or the grandness of what they are able to accomplish.
MARS in 2nd HOUSE
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Mars in the second house indicates those who exert more energy and enthusiasm in what they do to earn money than in the actual pursuit of money for its own sake. They are apt to be more enthusiastic spenders than savers. If they do develop the love of wealth for its own sake, they can become so passionately dedicated to the accumulation of money, they never stop to spend it or enjoy any of the advantages it can provide. The influence of Mars in the second house suggests that assets may come through men or a particular male influence. Income for these individuals may also be derived through Mars-ruled enterprises such as manufacturing, sports, armed forces, fire fighting, and physical labor rather than mental endeavors. Mars represents animated life. Whether or not they are conscious of it, these individuals value energy and vitality as desirable assets and are attracted to these qualities in others. Unless others factors in their personality subdue the restless influence of Mars, they find it difficult to enjoy doing absolutely nothing. They want to spend their energies as easily as they spend their money.
Mars in 2nd House conjunct (next to) Uranus in 2nd House. There is an unpredictability about those with Mars conjunct Uranus. They may think of themselves as different, and it is likely that in many ways they are. With a strong sense of personal independence, sometimes just stubborn contrariness, they are sure to want to go their own way. Restless and daring spirits take them in many different directions, often ending up far from where they started out. Care must always be taken with machinery, even though they may be thoroughly familiar with its operation.
Mars in 2nd House conjunct (next to) Pluto in 2nd House. In most cases Mars conjunct Pluto indicates those with remarkable physical and emotional strength. They are apt to have endless capacity to work hard and play hard. The problem is that they can be too intense or aggressive at times which makes others feel ill at ease. Weaponry, psychology, counseling, raw materials, surgery, cooking, mines and caves, secret activities and groups, or renovations are particular areas of interest to these individuals.
URANUS in 2nd HOUSE
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Uranus in the second house indicates those whose material assets are vulnerable to sudden change. This implies the improvement of monetary circumstances for those with little wealth, and the danger of loss for those with many assets. Their attitude toward spending can vary considerably from one time to the next. Unlikely to be dedicated to earning money for its own sake, they are more interested in the personal freedom that money can buy. Their income may be related to a fraternal organization, or earned through the help and influence of friends. Their livelihood may come from an unorthodox or unusual line of work, or through more mundane areas that involve computers, research and development, antiques, international finance, medicine, television, or social work. Other potentials for Uranus in the second house include those whose priorities and values are unorthodox or radical, and those whose established values and priorities are altered by an unexpected event or change in their life. Among the things these individuals value the most are freedom and friendship.
PLUTO in 2nd HOUSE
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Pluto in the second house indicates those with intense desires. These individuals may focus so intently on attaining something that everything and everyone else becomes meaningless. They find it difficult, if not impossible, to give up one thing in order to attain another. Consciously or subconsciously, they tend to equate wealth or status with control or power. However, the real power these individuals can gain comes through their understanding that money and material assets may be attained but never really owned, and. . . that all things, including the amount of time and the physical body they are given at birth, are merely borrowed. Pluto's influence suggests the potential for complete regeneration of assets. It includes the potential for these individuals to experience circumstances that help them develop much deeper values and priorities. Other potentials include those who are more likely to leave an inheritance than to gain one. Pluto also suggests that by choice or circumstances, there may be secrecy associated with their income or assets.
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HOUSE 5
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The fifth house describes your creative talent and imaginative powers, capacity for enjoyment and the pursuit of pleasure, romance, children, and speculative ventures.
SCORPIO on 5th HOUSE
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The subtle energy of Scorpio ruling the fifth house indicates those who want the satisfaction of enjoying outward manifestations of their creative efforts. They may not necessarily want the spotlight for themselves but will seek attention for whatever their creativity has produced. If they lack artistic talent or opportunities to develop such abilities, their creative outlet may be expressed by having children, and their relationships with children are apt to be unusually close. However, there is danger that those who lack a sense of personal security will consciously or subconsciously emotionally manipulate and control their offspring. There is also the potential they may not have children, preferring to pour their energy into other creative projects and activities. No matter how modest or unaggressive they may be, there is sure to be a healthy ego involvement, sometimes vainglorious pride. They are romantically attracted to those who are at least as intellectually gifted as themselves, or who have more status or power. Whether by accident or design, their romantic attachments or creative projects may involve an element of mystery or secretiveness.
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