Astrology

By: Becca Giannotto

Where it Started

• Astrology is the scientific interpretations of the heavenly bodies on our human existence.

• Derived from Astronomy which started with the Mesopotamians in 3000 BC.

• The Babylonians then introduced the concept of the zodiac.

• The Babylonians thought that the zodiac could tell time if split into equal and recognizable parts.

Cont’d

• Greeks named it the “zodiac system” (zodiakos kyklos)

• Zodiac links constellations with times of the year.

• Each constellation has their own god.

• Each constellation also is assigned an element.

Astrological Signs• On the day of your birth, you are assigned one

of 12 signs based on the position of the sun and stars at the time of your birth.

• Each day, if you look in a newspaper or online, you can see what your “horoscope” says.

• A horoscope is a forecast of your future or how your day will turn out.

Aries

• March 21-April 19• Element: Fire• Ruling planets: Mars• Symbol: The Ram• Stone: Ruby• Life Pursuit: The thrill of the moment• Vibration: Enthusiastic• Secret Desire: To lead the way for

others.

Aries• Those born under the element of fire are active and

outgoing. Those of the sign Aries are naïve, independent, and assertive, but somehow they are also very trusting. They have an untouchable faith in their future and life itself, and they live like children at heart, seeing the world as their own magical place to explore. Aries is seen as the most physical of all the signs as well as the most masculine. This makes it difficult for the Aries woman to find a man, because they would have to be a “real man” to deal with the forceful, aggressive Aries woman. Aries are also very competitive and forthright. Aries are impulse actors, which sometimes fills their lives with drama. These are the type of people that would take a challenge without thinking about the consequences, and only thinking about winning and not what might happen if they win or lose.

Taurus

• April 20-May 20• Element: Earth• Ruling planets: Venus• Symbol: The Bull• Stone: Emerald• Life Pursuit: Emotional and

financial security• Vibration: Determined energy• Secret Desire: To have a secure,

happy and wealthy life/marriage.

Taurus• Taureans appear to be cool, calm and collected, but they are

actually a very different species of people. Their social reputation is a disguise, for they tend to stray away from the crowd more often than not. Taureans are also not known for letting people close to them, and they are often known as closed books. They are also a very stubborn breed, for if they don’t want to hear something, it will be like talking to a tree. Taureans are sometimes seen as snobby, withdrawn, boring, or even sulky because they are not ones to open up about a problem. Taureans have a sort of auto pilot, which allows them to turn themselves off to the outside pressures of the world. This also shows how they do not like change, because change takes them out of this state of going through the motions. Taureans are the type of people that do not like to leave things up to fate. They are sensual beings that deal well with personal, physical senses and any pleasure associated with the senses. They are also very likely nature and pet lovers.

Gemini• May 21-June 20• Element: Air• Ruling planets: Mercury• Symbol: The Twins• Stone: Aquamarine• Life Pursuit: To explore a little bit of

everything• Vibration: Intense mental energy• Secret Desire: To be ahead of the

crowd

Gemini• These are the people who are always on the move,

ready for new knowledge and new experiences. Usually, Geminis are curious and sometimes very mischievous. They would rather know a little bit about everything than everything about one particular subject. This sign is also known as the most talkative of the zodiac, and if they do not have the “gift of gab” they are usually talented writers or take up a foreign language. They look for a lover that is able to keep up with them mentally, and physically, and wherever they go, people are talking about them. Often, a Gemini is misunderstood because they are seen as detached and mysterious. Also, many born under this sign are multi-dimensionally talented. They are fast and good at making money, and love adventures and games that involve being smarter than others.

Cancer• June 21-July 22• Element: Water• Ruling planets: The Moon• Symbol: The Crab• Stone: Moonstone• Life Pursuit: Constant reassurance and

intimacy• Vibration: Moody• Secret Desire: To feel safe (emotionally,

spiritually, romantically and financially)

Cancer

• Cancers are very contradictory; compassionate and caring around those they love, but vicious with jealousy. They are eccentric and confident, yet insecure about how they are viewed by others. Hard and insensitive, but soft and sensitive. Cancers are used to going through many different phases of life and experience, and even when they remain in one place, life does not stand still. They have an ever-changing mood, where within seconds they can go from being the happiest person in the world to the most depressed. Love and Romance are the most important to any Cancer, and they are the best romantics, but they are also the most hurt when something goes wrong. Cancers are also some of the most mysterious but fascinating of all the signs.

Leo

• July 23-August 22• Element: Fire• Ruling planets: The Sun• Symbol: The Lion• Stone: Peridot• Life Pursuit: To lead the way• Vibration: Radiant Energy• Secret Desire: To be a star

Leo• Love is the most important thing for the Leo, and their everyday

actions are all ruled by the heart. They are the charismatic, ‘glass half full’ typeof people, that attract a great amount of friends due to their humor and style that help them survive life’s journey. Once in a relationship, these people are completely committed and faithful and when their heart or trust is broken, you will never earn their forgiveness. Leos can leave others heartbroken, but there is always a good reason for it when they break your trust, and when they relationship is over, it means for good. Leos go through 3 levels of “soul evolution”, which begins with the highest level, the Sphinx which is wiser than their age and they teach it to others. The next is the Lion, represented as the king of the jungle, egocentric, but protective of those they love. Last is the Lion Cub, immature and frightened of anything new, clinging to others in fear of being alone. However, their level does not change the natural Leo’s trendsetting personality and their pride.

Virgo

• August 23-Saptember 22• Element: Earth• Ruling planets: Mercury• Symbol: The Virgin• Stone: Sapphire• Life Pursuit: To do the right thing• Vibration: Compassionate and caring• Secret Desire: To love and be loved in return

Virgo• Virgos are never given the benefit of the doubt, and are often

put down by astrologers who saw they are fussy and narrow minded. However, when the Virgo is at their peak of confidence, there is no sign to match their inner light, and they are the most successful and creative of the signs. Professions Virgos are most often seen in are any that fit into “service to others” such as welfare, doctors, teachers, etc. Virgos are never cynical, no matter how many times things go bad, they keep faith in other people. They have a kind-heartedness about them which is often used by others against them. Virgos are delicate and sensitive, and they require one on one help to allow them room to grow into who their supposed to be. They are often shy, and do not mind when others take the attention away from them. Instead, they focus all their time and energy on making their loved ones happy. Virgos understand the frailties of human nature better than any because they are a deep sign.

Libra

• September 23-October 22• Element: Air• Ruling planets: Venus• Symbol: The Scales• Stone: Opals• Life Pursuit: To be consistent• Vibration: Unsteady• Secret Desire: To live an easy,

uncomplicated life.

Libra• A Librans main goal in life is to find the

prince/princess that they always dream about. Although they give off a sense that they are happy-go-lucky, love and love-lost makes a big difference for these people. Libras are able to switch off from their lives, and during these times, no one can even imagine the deep occurrences taking place inside the Libran’s psyche. They are often successful business people due to their fanatical charm which gives them powerful friends. However, a downside to a Libran is that sometimes, they don’t know when to say no. The one piece of advice for a Libran is to never undermine their integrity, and always hold onto your dreams, because they will come true. Do not settle for what is offered.

Scorpio

• October 23-November 21• Element: Water• Ruling planets: Pluto• Symbol: The Scorpion• Stone: Topaz• Life Pursuit: To survive against all opposition• Vibration: Resilient• Secret Desire: To triumph

Scorpio• Scorpios have a reputation as being the most powerful sign of the zodiac, and

are known to lead “fate filled lives” with “intense and dramatic personal relationships.” Even young Scorpios are seen to be wise beyond their years, and when they get older, they are said to be the ones that know all the answers. However, they often have difficulty finding what they need to make themselves happy. The Scorpios biggest challenge throughout life is choosing between the power of love and the love of power. They have an extraordinary sense of emotion and sensitivity which is usually difficult for those around them to deal with. Scorpios are different from every sign of the zodiac, but this just has them living their lives to a different beat than others. It is very common for someone to live with a Scorpio for years, yet not know them at all, due to them having such powerful emotions that are not easily expressed by words. Dealing with a Scorpio, you must look deeper, as they are always wearing a mask, and they more often than not say no when they really mean yes. When in love, a Scorpio can be the most faithful and dedicated, but get on their bad side and you can count on the fact that they will not forgive and forget. Scorpios are those that can not stand losing. Their attitude scan either make or break them, and when they are negative about something or someone, even themselves, they will get in their own way. Scorpios also operate on 3 levels, beginning with the Scorpion, the one most likely to use their power the wrong way . Then, there is the eagle, the successful Scorpio, able to rise above everything and make a bad situation into a good one. Last, there is the Phoenix Resurrected who are the detached, but extremely powerful and wise. They are the leaders and are always an inspiration to others. Almost always the Scorpio will go through all 3 levels in their lives, but they can go out of order as well.

Sagittarius• November 22-December 21• Element: Fire• Ruling planets: Jupiter• Symbol: The Archer• Stone: Turquoise• Life Pursuit: To live the good life• Vibration: Overly expressive - frequent

burnouts• Secret Desire: To make a difference in

the world

Sagittarius• Description:

Ruled by the benefic planet Jupiter, Sagittarians possess a natural exuberance, sense of adventure and love of life that makes them one of the most optimistic zodiac signs of all. Like their astrological symbol - the Archer - Sagittarians are renowned for aiming their sights towards whatever it is they find alluring - a love partner, dream job, vacation - and making it their own. They believe that anything is possible - and because of this belief system, Sagittarians are adept at seeking out their very own pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

But sometimes trying to tie down these free-spirited individuals is frustrating for those around them. Sagittarians are happiest on the move - exploring new cultures and ideas and many are attracted to occupations related to travel, the media, outdoor work and philosophical pursuits. In love, their catch-cry is "don't fence me in". But once they find a partner who understands their need to retain their own sense of self and identity, Sagittarians can be the most big-hearted, generous and fun-loving companions of all.

Freedom loving, optimistic and honest, Sagittarians are ruled by Jupiter, the planet of abundance and higher learning. The wisdom of Jupiter imbibes Sagittarians with an inherent need to develop their own unique philosophy of life. The Centaur is their astrological symbol, and it gives many insights into the Sagittarian personality. The higher-evolved Sagittarian learns to integrate the two ends of the Centaur (half-human, half-beast) in order for their arrow (another Sagittarian symbol) of higher aspirations to be more on the mark. Although they are intellectually and spiritually advanced, Sagittarians are notorious for their lack of tact. In relationships they demand independence, but when in love, it can't be denied that they are one of the most big-hearted signs of the zodiac.

Capricorn• December 22-January 19• Your element: Earth• Your ruling planets: Saturn• Symbol: The Goat• Your stone: Garnet• Life Pursuit: To be proud of their achievements

Vibration: Poweful resilient energy

Capricorn Secret Desire: to be admired by their family and friends and the world at large

Capricorn

• Description:Ruled by the benefic planet Jupiter, Sagittarians possess a natural exuberance, sense of adventure and love of life that makes them one of the most optimistic zodiac signs of all. Like their astrological symbol - the Archer - Sagittarians are renowned for aiming their sights towards whatever it is they find alluring - a love partner, dream job, vacation - and making it their own. They believe that anything is possible - and because of this belief system, Sagittarians are adept at seeking out their very own pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

But sometimes trying to tie down these free-spirited individuals is frustrating for those around them. Sagittarians are happiest on the move - exploring new cultures and ideas and many are attracted to occupations related to travel, the media, outdoor work and philosophical pursuits. In love, their catch-cry is "don't fence me in". But once they find a partner who understands their need to retain their own sense of self and identity, Sagittarians can be the most big-hearted, generous and fun-loving companions of all.

Freedom loving, optimistic and honest, Sagittarians are ruled by Jupiter, the planet of abundance and higher learning. The wisdom of Jupiter imbibes Sagittarians with an inherent need to develop their own unique philosophy of life. The Centaur is their astrological symbol, and it gives many insights into the Sagittarian personality. The higher-evolved Sagittarian learns to integrate the two ends of the Centaur (half-human, half-beast) in order for their arrow (another Sagittarian symbol) of higher aspirations to be more on the mark. Although they are intellectually and spiritually advanced, Sagittarians are notorious for their lack of tact. In relationships they demand independence, but when in love, it can't be denied that they are one of the most big-hearted signs of the zodiac.

Aquarius• January 20-February 18• Your element: Air• Your ruling planets: Uranus• Symbol: The Water Bearer• Your stone: Amethyst• Life Pursuit: To understand life's mysteries

Vibration: High frequency

Aquarian's Secret Desire: To be unique and original

• something" to believe in and nurture.

Aquarius• Description:

Special note for Aquarians: With the new Millennium heralding the Dawn of the Age of Aquarius, at this time, ready or not, your sign is regarded as the zodiac's leader. You are the trendsetter for the future and because of this high responsibility, many under born your sign will be undergoing at this time, as we approach the Millennium, the pressure of personal change (particularly in your values and what makes you content and happy). Yours has always been a philanthropic sign. Now more than ever these qualities will be highlighted.

Those born under the sign of Aquarius not only march to a different drummer, they make up new music as they go along. They are 'mind oriented' individuals, whose thoughts never stop tick-tocking over. Because of their high focus on intellectual exploration, many inventors, eccentrics and highly original trailblazers are born under this sign. Their intense ability to live on many mental levels, holds both pain and pleasure for Aquarians. For example, in the American Hall of Fame there are more Aquarians than any other sign, yet statistics reveal that in mental institutions there are more Aquarians than any other sign too. Many extremes can surround this sign and these extremes can take them to both heaven and hell.

But in everyday terms, most Aquarians are extremely humanitarian and often involved in social programs that assist others. They can also be objective in judgement, for they never let their emotions get in the way. Outgoing and amiable, Aquarians attract friends wherever they go and those whom Aquarians befriend have their unswerving loyalty.

Aquarians are the zodiac's most mysterious and unusual people - and no two are anything alike. Those born under this sign - ruled by innovative and non-conformist Uranus - march to the beat of their own drum. They see life in a different way. Others quite frequently think their habits and ideas are eccentric or crazy in some way, but it is this uniqueness that makes them so special. The Aquarian mind is extremely quick and they never seem to stop thinking (it is interesting to note that many born under this sign suffer from insomnia.) Aquarians usually have strong political, environmental or social beliefs. But whether it is a relationship, career or cause - Aquarians are happiest when they have “something to believe in and nurture.”

Pisces• February 19-March 20• Your element: Water• Your ruling planets: Neptune• Symbol: The Fish• Your stone: Bloodstone• Life Pursuit: To avoid feeling alone and instead feel connected to

others and the world at large

Vibration: Erratic Energy levels

Pisces Secret Desire: To live their dreams and turn fantasies into realities.

Pisces• Description:

Special note for Aquarians: With the new Millennium heralding the Dawn of the Age of Aquarius, at this time, ready or not, your sign is regarded as the zodiac's leader. You are the trendsetter for the future and because of this high responsibility, many under born your sign will be undergoing at this time, as we approach the Millennium, the pressure of personal change (particularly in your values and what makes you content and happy). Yours has always been a philanthropic sign. Now more than ever these qualities will be highlighted.

Those born under the sign of Aquarius not only march to a different drummer, they make up new music as they go along. They are 'mind oriented' individuals, whose thoughts never stop tick-tocking over. Because of their high focus on intellectual exploration, many inventors, eccentrics and highly original trailblazers are born under this sign. Their intense ability to live on many mental levels, holds both pain and pleasure for Aquarians. For example, in the American Hall of Fame there are more Aquarians than any other sign, yet statistics reveal that in mental institutions there are more Aquarians than any other sign too. Many extremes can surround this sign and these extremes can take them to both heaven and hell.

But in everyday terms, most Aquarians are extremely humanitarian and often involved in social programs that assist others. They can also be objective in judgement, for they never let their emotions get in the way. Outgoing and amiable, Aquarians attract friends wherever they go and those whom Aquarians befriend have their unswerving loyalty.

Aquarians are the zodiac's most mysterious and unusual people - and no two are anything alike. Those born under this sign - ruled by innovative and non-conformist Uranus - march to the beat of their own drum. They see life in a different way. Others quite frequently think their habits and ideas are eccentric or crazy in some way, but it is this uniqueness that makes them so special. The Aquarian mind is extremely quick and they never seem to stop thinking (it is interesting to note that many born under this sign suffer from insomnia.) Aquarians usually have strong political, environmental or social beliefs. But whether it is a relationship, career or cause - Aquarians are happiest when they have "

Sources

• http://www.historyworld.net/wrldhis/PlainTextHistories.asp?historyid=ac32

• http://www.psychicguild.com/horoscopes_zodiac.php?sign=Aries

• http://www.whats-your-sign.com/zodiac-sign-dates.html