Astrology Basics: The Planets

Delving into astrology is exciting because it’s an ancient methodology that is still so practical.  Every so often astrology comes back into fashion and makes a comeback in pop culture.  In addition to being a fun way to connect with others, astrology can act as a practical guide and a tool for self-awareness.

The Planets, Signs and Houses are the basic elements of astrology.  The ten planets represent what energy is generated from the cosmos.  Each of the twelve zodiac signs fill in how it will play out expressively.  The twelve houses guide you, forecasting where this will affect you in life.

The Planets

Sun

The Sun is associated with the heart and represents ego, vitality and life-force energy.  Your Sun Sign is also known as your birth sign.  Details from the Sun show how you present your individual self to the outside world; this sign can point to where one truly radiates.  This planet is associated with one’s father and relationships with males.

Moon

The Moon explains your emotions, personality, what makes you feel safe and your interior world.  Sensitivities, and emotional responses can be explained by looking at one’s moon sign.  This planet provides insight on relationships with women, particularly mothers; the moon also shows how one relates to domestic affairs.  In connection to the physical body, this planet is associated with the stomach, digestive system and upper chest.

Mercury

Mercury is the planet of communication.  This planet is also associated with learning and all matters of intellect and skill.  Mercury is also associated the exchange of information as well as acquaintances and siblings.  The nerves, arms, shoulders, lungs and hands are associated with the planet Mercury.

Venus

Venus showcases material values and relationships with money and personal possessions, as well as relationships with others.  Ruler of attraction, beauty, grace and the capacity to love, Venus is the home of aesthetic values. This planet is also where you can look further into pleasures such as one’s relationship to fine arts.

Mars

Mars maps out your actions and driving force.  This planet  shows how we accomplish goals, exert energy and can also provide information regarding athletic talents.

Jupiter

Jupiter is the planet that shares details regarding luck, growth and abundance.  We can take a deeper look into where we can expand for our greatest good.  Being associated with self-improvement, it makes sense this planet is also associated with religion.  Consider also that exaggeration is represented by Jupiter.

Saturn

Saturn pulls back the curtain on our fears, where we restrict ourselves, discipline, structure and reality.  Saturn is also known as the planet of Karma.  When looking to review how we handle responsibilities and maturity, Saturn is the planet providing the insight.

Uranus

Uranus opens up where we can expect upheaval, sudden changes, freedom and eccentricities.  This planet is associated with  matters of science and new, innovative ways of thinking.

Neptune

Neptune illuminates creative aspects, our imagination, escapism and addictions.  Dreams, the introspective self, delusions and occultism and psychic energy is also associated with the planet Neptune.

Pluto

Lastly, Pluto rules over power, change, regeneration and transformation.  When working to uncover where in your life you can turn a new leaf, Pluto can provide some guidance.

Stay tuned for more astrology basics!  Next we are going to take a look at the various zodiac signs and their correspondences.  After, we will observe each of the twelve houses.  When you begin integrating this information, you can take a deeper look at how astrology impacts your life, and how you can best use that to your advantage for personal growth!