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This is the 11th article in a series exploring the 12 astrological signs. In Western Astrology, the sky is divided into 12 equal sections, beginning with Aries at the Vernal Equinox and continuing through the rest of the zodiac. Exact dates for the beginning and ending of each sign vary from year to year. Please consult a qualified astrologer to verify your sun sign, and to get a more complete picture of your entire astrological chart. Although the following description applies especially to those who were born when the sun was in Aquarius, it also applies in varying degrees for everyone, as we all have Aquarius represented in our charts. If you were born between January 20 and February 18, you were born when the sun was in the sign of Aquarius (see note above regarding dates). A popular song from the 60s contains lyrics that speak of "the Age of Aquarius," of sympathy, understanding, and peace for the world. As an Aquarian, you are not necessarily a pacifist, but you are concerned with humanitarian issues and personal freedoms. At your best, you are an original, progressive thinker, independent but also friendly and social. The symbol for Aquarius, called the "Water Bearer," can cause confusion for those just beginning to learn astrology. A drawing of the Water Bearer shows a person emptying a large jar, from which are flowing wavy lines. In some descriptions, you will read that these lines represent the "waters of human kindness." While this makes sense in light of Aquarius’ higher purpose, having water as a part of the Aquarian symbol is perplexing because Aquarius is an air sign, not a water sign. In my studies, I have happened upon an alternate explanation: These lines coming from the jar can also be seen as the snakes of knowledge. Since air signs are typically mental/communicative, this interpretation agrees more with my understanding of Aquarius. The "Water Bearer" is actually pouring out the gift of knowledge freely to all who would wish to partake. The glyph used to represent Aquarius shows two lines moving up and down together, reminiscent of the lines being poured from the Water Bearer’s jar. This glyph is described either as a depiction of waves or as a representation of an electric current or energy waves. I also like to think of these lines as showing the snakes of knowledge traveling side-by-side. Since Aquarius is known for its quick thinking, high energy and unpredictability, the electric current or energy waves also make sense. This symbology corresponds very well with the archetypes associated with your sign, Aquarius. You are personified by the Rebel, the Scientist, the Genius, the Nonconformist, and the Humanitarian. These personality types all have in common a strong desire to think for themselves, as well as the ability to find new solutions and inventions that make a difference in the world. As an air sign, you are intellectual rather than emotional, and are motivated by the need to observe, understand, plan, and articulate. You pride yourself on what you know, and on your ability to assist others by sharing information. Aquarius is also known as a "fixed" sign, which indicates the ability and determination to see a project through to completion. It also means that you can be fairly stubborn and set in your views, more interested in changing others’ perceptions than your own. The planet associated with Aquarius is Uranus, named for the mythological god of the stars and heavens. Uranus (or Ouranos) was the greatest of all inventors, having designed and created the entire universe. That inventive genius is an Aquarian trademark; as you learn to trust your own inspired ideas, you become the creator of cutting-edge technologies, visionary projects, and futuristic communities that enable global understanding to grow and flourish. Your vision is your guide, Aquarius. Staying true to your ideals is necessary for your personal fulfillment, even if those dreams conflict with or disappoint others in your life. This is where the Rebel or Nonconformist personality must step in, to be sure that you do not sell yourself out under pressure. As with each of the signs, you have the opportunity for both productive and nonproductive expressions of your basic characteristics. You may be the Rebel for a cause, but if you are rebellious just for the sake of being different, you do not fulfill the higher intent of your sign. You may be the Genius who independently develops new techniques and unique ideas, but if you maintain too much distance from the mainstream, you deprive society of solutions that may fulfill important needs. You may be the Humanitarian, but if you discard intimate relationships in favor of impersonal group participation, you deny important needs of your own. In relationships, you are usually most comfortable with other air signs (Gemini, Libra), for they share your need for social interaction and communication. Fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) inspire you, allowing you to envision ever greater accomplishments. In general, earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) may have difficulty fully supporting your dreams due to their practical perspective. Water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) are emotion-based, which may conflict with your detachment and objectivity. In the physical body, Aquarius is associated with the ankles and the circulatory system. The ankles symbolize the flexibility needed as you pursue your personal vision, and the ability you must have to dance to your own drummer. If you twist your ankle, pay attention to any ways in which you are ignoring your need to walk your unique path. The circulatory system equally disperses life energy to all parts of the body, much as Aquarius’ highest aim is to support the advancement and growth of all humanity. If circulation is a concern in your personal health, check in to see where you are limiting your acceptance of each individual as being equal and deserving of basic human rights. Leo, the constellation directly opposite the Aquarius, has a different perspective to offer you, one that can enrich your life and broaden your personal experience. Leo is creative and playful in ways that may seem self-serving, frivolous or even childish to you. However, as independent as you like to be, it is important to remember that you also need a different kind of freedom. There is a freedom of spirit to be gained through being able to live in the moment, being willing to take risks and laughing at your own foibles. You can also learn from Leo’s ability to create a sense of belonging with others; although "belonging" may sound limiting or threatening to you, it is possible for truly intimate relationships to increase rather than to decrease your opportunities. As the eleventh sign, Aquarius, you were born near the end of the zodiac year. The characteristics of your sign take you beyond the personal accomplishments of Capricorn and into an understanding of higher values. Your journey, when positively handled, is one that frees you from the constraints imposed both externally and internally and assists everyone in gaining a new level of equality and freedom as well. As we embark on the "Age of Aquarius," it is important that you share your enlightened perspective and insights with us. Pam Younghans is an astrologer and teacher, offering personal consultations, phone readings, classes, and individualized instruction in the Seattle area. To schedule a consultation, to receive Pam’s complimentary weekly forecast by email, or if you have questions: call (425) 445-3775, email <astrologerpam@aol.com>, or see Pam’s Web site at <http://www.pamsastrology.freeservers.com/>. |
