Studying the stars and planets [1] and how they align with the exact moment of your birth can be a daunting task. Maybe you love astrology because you feel the energy shifts [2] in the subtle body during a new moon, or maybe you don't have much interest in it beyond learning a little more about your sign [3] and how it relates to your individual personality. As we move through some interesting tidbits about each sun sign, remember that it's just one of the many facets of your full birth chart.
Our sun sign represents the core of who we are. It's what people are referring to when they ask you, "What's your sign?" [4] Some people don't relate quite as much to their sun sign as others, and this can be because there's just so much more to it. We have a moon sign, the parts of us which live beneath the surface and turn inward, and a rising sign, which is the parts of us that we choose to share outwardly. So, if you want to test your knowledge about how much you already know or simply want to read up on some basics for your sign, keep reading for information on each one. Maybe you'll learn something new about yourself!
Aries (March 21-April 19)
This fiery sign [5] is the first sign in the zodiac. Aries rule with the head and lead with the head, quite literally, propelling themselves forward on adventures, climbing corporate ladders, and embracing independence. Aries people are an energetic bunch - passionate, courageous, free-spirited, and somewhat turbulent. To every positive, there's always a darker underbelly. Jealousy, impatience, moodiness, and impulsiveness might be your struggles. If you can keep those things in check, an Aries has the ability and energy to lead an exciting, adrenaline-filled, successful life.
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
Grounded is the name of the game when it comes to the earth sign Taurus. This wandering bull is determined, responsible, and practical. A Taurus is not a fan of sudden changes or insecurity of any kind. These traits can lead to stubbornness and rigidity in relationships and in life, but the Taurus has the ability to stick with projects, friends, and partners for a seemingly impossible amount of time, and see things through until completion. They're also great with finances, preferring to work hard to earn and save more money because it offers the security that they desperately need. They are patient and one of the most reliable of the zodiac.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
This air sign is fuelled by curiosity, socialising, intellectualizing, and flitting from one thing to the next. Geminis are represented by the celestial twins, or duality, depicting two sides: they can be outgoing and playful, then serious and restless. They feel there isn't enough time to soak up all that life has to offer, but can be indecisive, understandably, when they're interested in so many different things [6]. Geminis are fun-loving creatives who are awesome to be around. The Gemini may struggle with commitment - to a job or a partner - because of their need for adventure, new experiences, new information, and the next exciting thing. These social beings would do well in situations where they can be creative, philosophize with others, and be allowed a certain level of freedom and flexibility.
Cancer (June 20-July 22)
Cancer is a water sign that's ruled by the moon, causing these sensitive beings to feel the influences of the lunar cycles whether they like it or not. Cancers are emotional, empathetic, and highly imaginative people. They can be withdrawn and mysterious at times, only opening up to those closest to them. They aren't a sign that's interested in casual encounters and one night stands. Although cautious with their trust, once you make it into a Cancer's heart, they're loyal and passionate friends and lovers.
Leo (July 23-August 22)
The fiery Leo might be the most exuberant of the zodiac, enjoying the spotlight and grandiosity, while also uniting all of those around them with their humour and magnetic personalities. The "King of the Jungle" is a natural born leader, ready to take the reins and control any situation. They must be mindful to not control the things that aren't meant for their leadership, like someone else's life and choices. Leos are warm, self-aware, and driven. They do well with people who can match their drive and passion so the flame of the Leo doesn't dim someone else's light.
Virgo (August 23-September 22)
The cautious and analytical Virgo represents their earth sign well. They're conservative, hard-working, and have a deep sense of humanity. Although they may seem indifferent, they're actually passionate people who choose their confidants wisely after careful observation over an extended period of time. The Virgo has an eye for every little detail and they thrive in environments where they can use their practical and organisational skills. This attention to detail can lead to overthinking, worry, and rigidity if left unchecked. They aren't materialistic, and might prefer a more minimalist lifestyle that values practicality over grandeur.
Libra (September 23-October 22)
The intellectual and diplomatic air sign of Libra is the only symbol in the zodiac that's an inanimate object: the scales. Libras value diplomacy, fairness, and cooperation. They'll often do everything possible to maintain peace and harmony. The Libra loves having a partner to share life with, and a rich life they will have, valuing culture, art, and the finer things in life. Their need for equality and fairness, while also valuing peace and harmony, can lead to a fear of confrontation and indecisiveness. They make great friends, listeners, and can make excellent leaders regardless of a certain lack of initiative at times.
Scorpio (October 23-November 21)
Scorpios often get a bad rap for their "sting," but this water sign is one of the most intensely feeling in the zodiac. They're passionate, resourceful, brave, and extremely loyal friends [7]. They do have a dark underbelly of being distrusting and jealous, but their intuition is usually on point so it would be wise to be honest with them in the first place.
Scorpios are historically known for being the most sexual of the zodiac, but they choose their partners carefully based on sexual attraction, intelligence, and emotional connections. Scorpios have an air of mystery to them and are excellent listeners, but are slow to reveal their own secrets. They have tremendous resilience to the traumas they've inevitably experienced and can be very strategic in the way they move through all aspects of their life.
Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)
This fire sign is one of the biggest travellers of the zodiac. With an inquisitive and adventurous spirit, a Sagittarius needs the freedom to do their own thing, explore the world, and constantly seek out the meaning of life. They'll thrive in situations where they can freely express themselves verbally, creatively, and physically. Not known for their tact, they have a keenness for honesty and will need to find ways to deliver their truth in an easier to digest way to avoid hurting those around them. A Sagittarius does well with the unknown, trusting that the universe will provide everything they need to live a full and exciting life.
Capricorn (December 22-January 19)
The ever-serious Capricorn stays true to its earth sign roots [8]. Responsibility and discipline are strong traits for the persistent and organised Capricorn, leading them to success in their pursuits from solely hard word and expertise. Once warmed up, they're passionate companions who have no trouble taking initiative for the trajectory of their lives. Although their rigidness may cause problems in relationships, they're grounded, calm, and reasonable, willing to find solutions to problems that may arise.
Aquarius (January 20-February 18)
An Aquarius is a passionate, quirky, sometimes quiet and shy, and sometimes outspoken and temperamental human. They're deeply compassionate for humanity, equality, freedom of expression, and intellectual conversations. As an air sign, they value mental stimulation above most other things. The Aquarius may appear aloof, but as highly sensitive people, they just require a little more time to warm up. These free-spirited, imaginative, and slightly inconsistent people thrive when others can relate to and respect the many sides of their personality.
Pisces (February 19-March 20)
One of the most tolerant of the zodiac, this water sign is highly intuitive and compassionate. A Pisces can be selfless to the point of martyrdom, and they have an affinity for all things water. They make excellent partners and friends, always providing a listening ear and unconditional love. The Pisces needs to be mindful not to absorb and take on the emotions of those around them, which can lead to depression and anxiety. Although gentle and wise, they don't take well to criticism, even if it's constructive. If you're a Pisces, take care in advocating for yourself because your needs matter too.