Category: Astrology

Each Sign of the Zodiac has a date range attached. Scorpio, for example, is October 23d to November 21st of each year. For the vast majority of people, this date range is just fine, because they’ll fit somewhere between those dates.

What about the small number of people who aren’t so lucky? What about the handful of people who are born at midnight on the night of November 21st? Are they Scorpio or are they Sagittarius?

The answer to that question is “Yes.”

People born “on the Cusp”—that is, right on the dividing line between two signs—aren’t quite sure which of the signs they are. They will inherit tendencies from both.

For example, someone born on August 21 or 22 is right on the cusp between Leo and Virgo. This person could have Leo’s advantages, such as the natural leadership and the drive to conquer and succeed.

However, one of Leo’s weaknesses is in the details. When you’re destined for greatness, like Leo is, you don’t have much time or patience for little everyday details.

Virgo, on the other hand, is widely regarded as the most detail oriented of all the signs. Someone lucky enough to have been born on the cusp between Leo and Virgo might also be lucky enough to pick up traits from each sign that counter the weaknesses of the other.

By the same token, Cusp people need to be aware that they could inherit tendencies and weaknesses that can make the situation worse, not better. Combining the gloomy depression of the Capricorn with the fear of rejection and overall sensitivity of the Aquarius is a recipe for disaster.

Horoscopes generally give people a wide variety of traits and tendencies to think about. Those lucky few born on the cusp between signs have even more possibilities to think about.

Loyal to a fault, the dog is the eleventh sign of the Chinese Zodiac. Dog people will stand by their family and friends, even when they shouldn’t. Sensitive and compassionate, those with the dog sign empathize with the pain you feel. They take it as if it were their own. This can lead the dog to make excuses for those who are less than respectful toward them. Dogs will also meddle in your personal life, in the name of trying to help. They mean well and most dogs will understand when you suggest they back off.
Dog people are usually cool headed in a crisis. They are the ones you can count on during hectic, stressful times.
Honest, strong, intelligent, and practical, dogs will accept whatever fate throws at them and handle it with poise and grace. You can count on people of the dog to do their work thoroughly and well.
Of course, there is a negative side to the sign of the dog. To be born under dog influence is to be idealist. Dog people have a very clear idea of right and wrong, there is very little room in their heart for shades of grey. Oftentimes, this makes them intolerant of those who show weakness. Dogs do not accept weakness in themselves, either.
Dog people tend to come across to others as excessively critical, even picky. The dog will see every flaw, and their sense of propriety will not allow them to over look even the smallest flaws. They are perfectionists.
Dog people will do whatever it takes to protect their family and friends and they are unselfish, and only want the best for those they care about.
Those with the dog sign will do well for themselves if they choose friends carefully and remember that not everyone deserves their steadfast loyalty.

Libras are represented in the Zodiac by the Scales, the symbol of perfect balance.  Because of this, one would think that Libras are balanced, even-tempered, and calm.
One would be wrong.
Yes, Libra can balance, and when she does, those moments are absolute heaven.  But there is a space before the trays of the scales balance–that time when the weights are not even, when a little bit more needs to be added to one side or the other–and Libra represents that, also.  This tends to make Libras a bundle of contradictions, though definitely not as much as Gemini. 
Libras, as ruled by Venus, are one of the most attractive signs in the Zodiac.  It’s natural for Libra to be warm and friendly.
Libras will drift from one side to the other. At times, they can take over a conversation, and then just as suddenly turn into the perfect listener.Their inborn fairness make them a perfect mediator, but after a wonderful track record at settling arguments they’ll choose sides and start a fresh argument just for the fun of it.  When they’re balanced, they’re easygoing, diplomatic, and charming.  When they’re not balanced, they are just as easily gullable and resentful.
One of a Libra’s favorite statements will be something similar to “…but on the other hand…”
Libra constantly searches for the real truth.  They enjoy a good debate, and won’t hesitate to take the other side of an argument soley for the sake of the argument.  They cannot stand the idea of unfairness or prejudice, and will not hesitate to challenge someone on broad generalizations–and that’s the Libra’s weakness. 
A Libra can be prone to indecision.  Libras hate to make decisions without analyzing all of the possible results, and all of that forethought can be maddening to others, especially those born under more impulsive signs.  That indecision can also lead to the Libra being influenced by others.
Most of all, Libra is a dreamer, who follows her soul wherever it might lead.

The Vermilion Bird of the South represents the South and the summer season. The Vermilion Bird isn’t used solely in Chinese astrology. It is also depicted in many Japanese cartoons and comic books.

The Seven Mansions that make up the Vermilion Bird are the Well, the Ghost, the Willow, the Star, the Extended Net, Wings, and the Chariot.

Each Mansion is then broken up into Asterisms.

The Asterisms of the Well are the Well, the Battle Axe, the South River, the North River, the Celestial Wine Cup, Five Feudal Kings, Accumulated Water, the Pile of Firewood, the Irrigation Official, Water Level, the Four Channels, the Market for Soldiers, the Wild Cockerel, the Grandfather, the Son, the Grandson, the Palace Gate, the Celestial Wolf, the Bow and Arrow, and the Old Man. All of these stars appear in the Western constellations of Gemini, Canis Minor, Cancer, Gemini, Canis Major, Columba, Monoceros, and Puppis.

The Ghost mansion is populated by the asterisms Ghost, Cumulative Corpses, Beacon Fire, the Celestial Dog, the Outer Kitchen, the Celestial Earth God’s Temple, and the Judge for Estimating the Age of Animals. Here in the West, we would know these stars as the constellations Cancer, Pyxis, Vela, and Hydra.

The third Mansion, Willow, has only two Asterisms—Willow and Banner of a Wine Shop. These are parts of the constellations Hydra and Leo.

The Star Mansion is broken out into six Asterisms. They are Star, Celestial Premier, Celestial Cereals, Xuanyuan, Maids in Waiting, and the High Judge. XuanYuan is replaced by the given name of the Yellow Emperor, and these Asterisms are located in the constellations Hydra, Sextans, Vela, Leo, the Lynx, and Leo Minor.

The Extended Net Mansion is split into the Extended Net and the Celestial Temple asterisms. Their stars are in the constellations Hydra and Pyxis.

The Wings Mansion is also broken up into two Asterisms, the Wings and Dongou.

Finally, the Chariot mansion is made up of the Chariot, Changsha, Left Linchpin, Right Linchpin, Green Hill, Military Gate, the Master of Constructions, and the House for Musical Instruments. The constellations for these are Corvus, Hydra, and Centaurus.

One of the major reasons people check their horoscopes is matchmaking. After all, if personality is clearly laid out by a person’s sign, then it should be pretty easy to tell whether or not that person is going to be compatible.

It’s not as simple as that, of course. Other factors in a person’s horoscope can influence those basic rules, or even counter them entirely. Just because a person falls within a sign does not mean they’re going to be a perfect match for the general depiction of that sign. Still, it’s fun and interesting to check for compatibility through a horoscope.

As a general rule, your “perfect match” is likely to be at the opposite side of the Zodiac from you. That is, Aries with Libra, Taurus with Scorpio, Cancer with Capricorn, Leo with Aquarius, Virgo with Pisces, Sagittarius with Gemini. Those signs opposing each other across the Zodiac tend to balance out, supporting each other’s strengths and countering each other’s weaknesses—provided, of course, that the personality differences can be smoothed over.

As an example, Cancer has a very strong “family instinct.” Cancers want to have a strong and secure home life. This mindset is likely to drive away several other signs, like dominant Aries or travel-oriented Sagittarius. Capricorn, however, has a similar attitude towards home and in general, the two would get along just fine…provided, of course, the Cancer could learn to cope with the Capricorn’s penchant for gloom and depression.

The signs that definitely do not get along are the ones that have a core difference. Sagittarius is known for traveling, and would drive the home-focused Cancer to distraction. Detail-oriented and critical Virgo would grate on the nerves of self-centered and bossy Aries. And bright and cheerful Libra would never be able to handle a life darkened by shady, mysterious Scorpio.

The Sun doesn’t rise in exactly the same place every day. From our viewpoint here on Earth, it drifts over the course of a year. It’s path through the sky is called the Ecliptic.
In ancient Babylon, the Ecliptic was divided into twelve equal pieces. Each piece was named after a major constellation, and the mythology of the Babylonians, and later the Greeks, defined the traits of those born under that constellation.  This is the Zodiac, and is the center of astrology.
Carefully tracing the position of the sun will show that it moves through each of the twelve Zodiac signs over the course of the year. This is where the concept of astrological signs, or “Sun Signs,” has it’s start. A person’s Sun Sign is tied to the constellation the Sun was traveling through at the moment of his birth.
The Sun is traditionally associated with will and individuality, so the Sun Sign covers the overall tendencies and direction a person has in their life. It covers such things as focus, determination, integrity, and ego.  It describes general tendencies in an individual, like “Capricorns are gloomy” or Virgo is very orderly,” as well as general predictions, like “Sagittarius should learn tact” and “Pisces should avoid alcohol and drug abuse”. This is also the element that shows how other people will treat this person, almost like a prediction of their “first impression.”
This is only the starting point of Western Astrology, of course. The Sun Sign is only a very general description, and an astrological reading–a horoscope, or natal chart–takes the planets and Moon into account as well.  For example, traditionally, Capricorns are very gloomy and depressed.  This is a general trait ascribed to Capricorn, based on the position of the Sun. However, the positions of the other planets can counter–or sometimes enhance–this tendency. Complete horoscopes have to account for all of these elements, using the position of the sun as a starting point.

The Dragon is the only mythical creature in the Chinese Zodiac. As a symbol, the dragon holds a special place in Chinese culture. Dragons are placed on roofs and above doors to bring strength, health, luck and harmony to the inhabitants. Dragons are said to ward off evil spirits and banish demons to the underworld.

The sign is traditionally associated with the position of Emperor of China, and because of that is known to be omnipotent.

Those born under the sign of the Dragon are attractive and lucky. They are likely to attract wealth and good fortune to their lives.
Dragons are powerful. And they know it.
Dragon people are confident and know how to make an impression. They are usually the center of attention and thrive in that role. Their natural enthusiasm and interest often lead them to positions of power and notice.
Dragon people like to do things big. They are intelligent and when they learn to combine their talents, intelligence and overwhelming energy, the dragon has no problem fulfilling his, often overly ambitions, goals.
However, the dragon tends toward the negative and this negativity, if left unchecked, will drive people away in droves. Dragons come across as ego-centric, rude, arrogant and ill-tempered.
Jealousy is the Dragon’s enemy. They must be ever watchful against the tendency to use deceit and plain nastiness against one they feel has wronged them.
The Dragon is a steadfast friend, offering unwavering support in times of great need. With a Dragon by your side, you will never feel abandoned.
Dragons lean toward the grandiose in all things. Whether it’s money, food, luxury, passion or power, for the Dragon enough is never enough. But along with this tendency toward indulgence, the Dragon possesses the ability to learn, manage and blend the positive and negative traits of this sign.

Many people believe that astrology only concerns the sun. This is due to the Western world view of astrology, which has taken on the form of Zodiac horoscopes. However, in truth the study of astrology goes well beyond sun signs.

In the Eastern world, such as in China and India, the moon is actually the primary consideration in studies of astrology. The moon signs and cycles are used to determine the best time for activities, and is a part of daily life. This may seem backward to some, but actually results in more accurate predictions in many cases than Western astrology can ascertain.

The moon plays a large role in astrology and astrological phenomena. The position and phase of the moon influences the other aspects of astrology, including sun signs and planetary movements. In fact, the moon influences other aspects of astrology as a whole.

Envision that astrology is made up of the study of all of the planets and the sun. The astrological birth chart and the study of how planetary alignments affect sun signs are based on these aspects of astrology. The moon actually influences this overall picture, and can cause certain aspects of astrological phenomena to influence our lives differently than was otherwise predicted.

The moon, for the most part, influences our emotions. In certain phases of the moon, the predictions made through the study of astrological phenomena that would otherwise occur fail to happen, because our emotions do not produce the reactions to the astrological phenomena that would normally be expected. In other phases of the moon, astrological phenomena of planetary alignments and their effect on the Zodiac sun signs are not altered from their original reading.

The influence of the moon on the Zodiac is a study in and of itself. When you are aware of your sun sign, you can use information about the cycles of the moon and the moon signs to determine the best time to make decisions or avoid certain activities. The moon signs are named the same as the Zodiac, but do not coincide with them.

The signs of the moon cycle each month rather than each year. Each sign has three phases: ascending, true, and descending. Each sign influences our emotions differently, depending on our sun sign and natural tendencies. The phases of the moon also affect our emotions and other aspects of astrology.

When we learn these influences that the moon holds over us and astrological phenomena, we can use this information to our advantage. For example, during the new moon most people are not capable of rational thought. Knowing this can help you to avoid major decision making during the time of the full moon.

There are many books and websites that provide detailed explanations of the moon and its effects on the study of astrology. There are also many books that explain the signs of the moon and their effects on sun signs and our emotions. You can generally find these books by searching your local book store, new age shop, or Amazon.com.

Astrology is practiced differently throughout the world. Some parts of the world utilize the study of all of the “stars” including the planets, the moon, and the sun. America has been leaning toward use of strictly sun signs over the last several decades as horoscopes have invaded virtually all print media. Other areas of the world, such as China, utilize only the moon cycles in their studies of astrology.

Astrology is also viewed differently throughout the world. Astrology can be a very controversial subject in America. You will find people that think that astrology is completely fake, entertainment only, or absolutely real and reliable. You may even find people who think that astrology is the work of the devil. But in many other parts of the world, astrology is viewed quite differently.

In America, astrology is sometimes used to decide the best time for a wedding or other event. Astrology is sometimes used in daily life by some Americans, although many Americans only regard astrology as entertainment and religiously read their horoscope every week, just to see if it will be right or not. Other Americans disregard astrology all together, and give the art little or no thought whatsoever.

However, in China and India astrology is used on a daily basis to determine what activities should be pursued each day. Certain moon cycles are found to be best for certain types of activities or decisions in China and India. This is not unlike the way that farmers once used the cycles of the moon to determine the best time to plant or harvest. The concept is simply taken beyond the fields and into everyday life.

Astrology is also viewed differently based on religion. Astrology is a large part of religious life in the Eastern world. Paganism, a word that describes all “occult” religions such as Wicca, Druidism, and the Kabala oriented religion started by Alister Crowley, also embrace astrology as a part of religious life. These religions are found in America and throughout Western Europe.

These religions use astrology in every day decision making. They also use astrology to determine times of “power” or celebration. Many Wiccan and Druidic rites are based on various astrological phenomena, such as the phases of the moon. Kabalistic magicians, practitioners of Alister Crowley’s Golden Dawn, also use astrology to determine the best time for rites and rituals.

However, some religions view astrology as evil, or the work of the devil. Both Judaism and some denominations of Christianity have this view of astrology. There are many scriptures in both the old and new testaments of the bible that warn against the study of the stars and divination.

On the other hand, some Christian groups either embrace astrology or fail to regard the study of the skies entirely in their teachings. There are also scriptures in the bible that refer to watching the stars and the skies for signs of the first and second comings of Jesus Christ. Due to these scriptures, some faiths tend to believe that astrology for the use of divination is against the will of God, while the actual study of the stars is actually a good thing.

Real astrology readings can be very helpful when planning for your future or making a difficult decision. However, real astrology readings are also difficult to find. Although astrology readings are advertised all over the internet and other media, finding real astrology readings can prove to be a tricky venture.

You can find real astrology readings at websites online and by calling 900 numbers. Some of the astrology readings you find online will not be real readings. However, you can find some websites that offer real astrology readings.

The best way to determine if you have found real astrology readings or fakes is by the information requested. The astrologist should ask for your birth date, your birth place, and the time of your birth. Any information that you provide about your background, personality, or personal life will allow the astrologist to fake a reading.

There are better places to find real astrology readings, where you do not have to worry so much about getting a fake. There are two main places that you will easily find real astrology readings. A third option, harder to find, is also available.

The easiest place to find real astrology readings is at psychic fairs and pagan festivals. These events are crawling with those skilled in astrology and other forms of divination. From these practitioners you will receive none of the hype. You will receive some of the most accurate real astrology readings you have ever encountered. You will also find that the prices for these real astrology readings are somewhat less expensive than the readings you will get from phone lines and web sites.

Another place that you can easily find real astrology readings is at new age stores and occult shops. These stores usually have astrologists, tarot readers, and other divination experts available for readings. These are also some of the best astrology readings you will find anywhere.

There is a great benefit to using an astrology expert in your area found at one of these stores or shops. The fact that they are local means that you can go to them over and over again. When this is possible, you will save a lot of time and money by not having to start from scratch each time you get a reading. You will also save a lot of money, because these astrology experts often charge half what is typically charged at psychic fairs and pagan festivals.

Finally, you can find great real astrology readings through networks of pagan and Wiccan groups and individuals. Often these practitioners are difficult to find. However, if you happen to find one, or know someone who is involved in Wicca or paganism, you can get some of the best astrology readings from these individuals.

Most often these individuals will charge next to nothing for their services. They also take the art of astrology very seriously, and do not often use it to make money. This means that you will get a very lengthy and accurate astrology reading from these sources.