Jupiter Retrograde Jupiter Retrograde When Jupiter goes into its retrograde, this cycle lasts about 120 days and will move between 10 to 20 degrees. Jupiter goes retrograde every year and as retrogrades usually indicate that the energy is not strong or its full expression is restricted, Jupiter in retrograde still offers up opportunities for expansion and optimism, although somewhat challenged when it is in touch with Saturn. You can use an orb of 3-4 degrees when determining if Jupiter will affect any of the planets or important points in your natal chart. As it crosses these placements, the energy of Jupiter will increase. When it turns direct again, its positive expansiveness is considered to be alive and well. Under normal conditions Jupiter is known as the great benefactor, but it is said that when it moves into retrograde, the energies of these characteristics seem to fade and its normal opportunistic influence is felt on an inner level. On the material side of things, however, it is less effective but still present. It is suggested that if you are considering buying property or big luxury items while Jupiter is in retrograde motion that you reconsider and wait until Jupiter is once again in direct motion. Much depends on the natal aspects to your Jupiter. In general, Jupiter’s energies are not as lucky in retrograde motion as they are under direct motion. When this planet moves into retrograde, its impact is felt on an inner level rather than in our outside world. During a retrograde cycle, you can benefit greatly if you focus on inner growth and awareness. Getting in touch with you and objectively view yourself making alterations along the way as this would be very beneficial Jupiter is the planet of expansion and is connected to spirituality and the philosophies of life that have deeper meaning. If you have a look at the house it is transiting through as well as the house it is located in your natal chart, these will be areas of life that you can do work on and transform in ways that will suit you better (when Jupiter is direct again). It is a time of introspection when Jupiter is retrograde. Remember to view Jupiter even when retrograde on a positive note, even if what you see or if your life’s direction is not what you thought it was. Under the retrograde influence you can make adjustments to the way you have been living your life, transform your life’s direction and put yourself on track with where you should be going. Jupiter in retrograde is connected to the lessons in life that are required during that specific time. Be honest with yourself under this influence, and you will be able to re-examine your truths and gauge these with a keen eye in order to decide what you want to change and what is worthy of keeping. These are often aspects of yourself that need some tweaking, in turn creating a higher version of yourself on track and ready to move in your intended direction. Look inside yourself and find those inner riches. While under the influence of Jupiter in retrograde, if you are making plans on going into a business venture, make sure that you take the time to consider all the aspects connected to making this decision. You may find that you will make great expenditures when Jupiter is retrograde. This is not always a wise decision and likely not one you would make if Jupiter were in direct motion. It is actually best to wait before making any decisions, unless your natal Jupiter and the planets connected to it in the natal chart are quite “well” aspected. Check to see what the natal chart is saying and then make your decisions. Just make sure that you are viewing these contacts with clarity and watch for expanded optimism. Once Jupiter has gone back into direct motion and is making aspects to other planets in your natal chart, you will be able to gauge what areas of life might be affected and the potential outcome of actions taken once Jupiter is direct. Jupiter is a very positive influence in your life and will enhance most experiences, especially when linked to higher forms of delivery. Mercury Venus Mars Saturn Uranus Neptune Pluto Astrology 101 Retrograde

Aspects in Astrology Grand Square The Grand Square (also known as the Grand Cross) is an aspect in Astrology and it involves at least four planets, two oppositions and four squares. The first and third planets will be in opposition (180 degrees) to one another, the second and fourth planets will be in opposition to each other, while the first planet squares (90 degrees) the second planet and the second plant squares the third plant and the third plant squares the fourth planet and the fourth squares the first planet involved. A strong Grand Square will have all of the four planets in the same mode (cardinal, fixed or mutable). If one or more of the planets do not fit into this criteria then it is considered a weak Grand Square. The closer the squares and oppositions are by degree to one another, the stronger the energies of the Grand Square. The Grand Square is considered a challenging aspect because of the general nature of these aspects. They often produce stress and inner tension or offer a challenge that will require inner strength and determination in order to advance through the lessons. This aspect can either become the stagnation in the lives of those under its influence or the motivating factor that has the potential of producing great strides forward. When this natal aspect becomes activated through transit or progression, the individuals with this aspect in their natal chart will feel as though they are being pulled in four directions indicated by the planets involved and the houses that the planets are found in. They may feel over-burdened and paralyzed by life’s conditions. There is usually a planet that forms a tight trine or sextile within the Grand Square and the energies and house placement of this trine or sextile will often help unlock the potentials found within the framework of this larger configuration. This contained energy resulting from the aspect needs to find a release and this trine or sextile is often where the energies are released which, if used properly, can produce great results. These individuals often need to turn inward and find their own strength. Many with this aspect feel as though they cannot rely on others to help them through life’s difficulties and therefore become stronger over time and very self-reliant. This is not to say that reaching out would be a bad idea or that no one can assist them in their time of crisis, however, many with this aspect become reliant on themselves and motivate themselves forward conquering these energies which in turn builds inner strength. Most people with challenging aspects find ways to use the energies in a positive manner, and they are often the ones that push ahead in life and make something out of themselves as they become experienced in dealing with these energies. If they can find a goal or spiritual purpose behind the difficulties at hand, they can make their way over the hurdles and rise above any difficulty that comes their way. The key is to know that they are not trapped and that there is always a way out. It is imperative that they not beat their heads again the proverbial wall. Again, they must realize that they are never trapped. There are many valuable lessons learned from challenging aspects found within the framework of the Natal Astrology chart. We need to address each challenge head on, one step at a time. Back to Aspects Back to Astrology 101

Virgo Those who are born with strong Virgo character traits view life on a microscopic level. They do not miss anything life throws at them and are constantly analyzing life and current situations. They have an eye for detail on a most minute scale and see imperfection and the tiniest of flaws. They are seekers of perfection in life and in themselves. They are conservative in their approach to life and are rarely gamblers. They like the tried and tested route. Because of their intellectual approach to life and their ability to decipher even the tiniest details, they are excellent problem solvers, although their approach may be considered by some as going to the extreme. They are very service oriented and enjoy helping others and have an uncanny ability to create order out of chaotic conditions. They truly give all of themselves to those in need and can be counted on if they give you their word. They will offer their advice and aid in almost any situation. With their work, they enjoy detail. Accounting and design as well as organizational projects are right up their alley. They are very productive and enjoy being busy and often get noticed for their precise work and problem solving. They certainly seek perfection and can be counted on in doing a good job. Rewards come their way when perseverance is required and they will often take on jobs that are too difficult for others to handle as they can make it work in the very best possible way. They also make excellent writers, analysers and critiques because of their ability to stick with something until it is completed. They are usually good at handling money matters and make great financial advisers. They also make great secretaries or assistants. Order is key for them and will help them in many of their endeavours in life. Many are overly concerned with cleanliness and hygiene as well as diet and health. They can actually become overly conscious in health matters and some can become hypochondriacs if there is too much concentration in this area of life. When this becomes extreme, there is a tendency to worry and become anxious at the slightest ailment. They will have to watch from becoming obsessive and compulsive when it comes to health, especially their own. Too much worry is a direct sign of misalignment and they will need to find a place within where they can rationalise the situation and take some time to relax and let go of this focus. In most cases the problem will resolve itself and calming themselves down is the best route to take. They need to have intermittent rest periods where they can calm down and view things more realistically. This will assist in letting go of potential problems. Virgo individuals are very curious characters who intellectualize life matters. When it comes to their emotions, they usually keep them secret and because of this, often come across as very self-contained and self-reliant. They find their emotional equilibrium by intellectually analyzing their emotions and coming to terms on a mental level. They can use their logic and methodical approach to solve most any problem as long as they keep things in balance and do not let their analytical abilities run away with them. They see faults in others, are especially hard on themselves and their inner circle of friends, although their intent is to help. Sometimes others will require their assistance, but sometimes the Virgo individual will need to stand back and realize that not everyone wants their help. They are totally service oriented and truly want to help. If you have a problem that needs resolution and you just do not seem to be able to figure it out, your Virgo friend can surely help you uncover the solution you are looking for. Astrology 101 Virgo is ruled by Mercury and the Sixth house Carnelion is the stone of Virgo. Other stones associates with Virgo include Amazonite, Atlantasite, Sapphire, Blue Topaz, Carnelion, Chrysocolla, Garnet Gaspeite, Magnetite, Moss Agate, Peridot, Smithsonite, Stichtite, and Sugilite. Return to Sun Sign Page

The Tenth House The Tenth House There are four houses known as the Cardinal Points and these are the first , fourth , seventh and tenth houses. These four energy channels (Angles) are considered action points in the horoscope. The first house cusp or the Ascendant and the tenth house cusp or the Midheaven also known as the MC are the two most active areas in a natal chart. We will go into more detail on a page which will be titled "Angles" in the near future. When Transiting Planets cross these areas of life, as all houses define areas of life, events often take place. Now much depends on the planet crossing this area and the energy it represents. Every house cusp defines a particular area of life and these areas of life are enhanced when Transiting Planets or Progressed Planets energy each house, crossing the cusp. The Tenth and First house cusps far outweigh the other ten areas of life represented by each house cusp, although one usually experiences a shift as the Outer Planets cross this threshold. The Tenth House cusp or the MC describe your occupation and the actual point and ruling sign often is suggestive of the type of work you should be doing in your life. This is not necessarily what you are doing with your life, but definitely what you should be doing with it. When doing an occupational profile this is the first place an Astrologer will look to define what we should be doing with our lives. It should however be pointed out that the Moon’s Nodes are also very indicative of what one should be doing with their life. The Tenth House deals directly with your worldly ambitions, your outer goals and often portrays the ego and some of its characteristics, although the Ascendant Sign is even more descriptive of this. When a planet in transit crosses this energy point quite often there are changes to our occupation and our status in life. As the fourth house cusp is always directly in opposition to the MC, when a planet crosses the tenth house cusp it is also in Opposition to the Fourth House Cusp. During these transformational periods, the home and family will also be affected by what is taking place within your occupation. The sign ruling the tenth house cusp, especially if it is a Cardinal Sign, can depict public recognition, especially if it is in a Cardinal Point which is between 29 degrees of the Mutable Sign before the Cardinal Sign or 0 to 1 degree of the Cardinal Sign. An example of this would be having a sign of 29 degrees Virgo on the MC or 0-1 degree Libra on the MC. Natal Planets in this house and aspects to these planets can provide an Astrologer with input into how the energy of this house will be relayed to the outside world and if we will have an easy time in work related ways and in our status in life. Frequently, a Gemini or Pisces MC suggests two completely different occupations during the course of our life. It is important, however, to understand the true concept of success as it does not always pertain to worldly success. In most cases we need Natal Aspects that closely mirror events in the Transiting Planetary Energies for something of significance to happen, but in many cases, even when there is no natal link to Transiting Planets crossing over the MC or the Ascendant, events may still happen. As suggested, these two areas (MC or Ascendant) are action areas of a chart and very significant when deciphering potential life issues when Transits or Progressions pass over these very important areas of life Astrology 101 The Tenth house is naturally ruled by Capricorn . This house deals with SOCIAL STATUS. The First House The Second House The Third House The Fourth House The Fifth House The Sixth House The Seventh House The Eighth House The Ninth House The Eleventh House The Twelfth House

Saturn Retrograde Saturn has a 28 year cycle and remains in each zodiac sign for approximately 2 and ½ years. During its cycle, Saturn moves into retrograde on a regular basis and about 15 degrees of each astrological sign experiences the retrograde motion of Saturn. To show the contrast of the energies of a retrograde planet, we will look at Jupiter. Jupiter often brings good luck and expansion in its direct motion but when in retrograde motion as discussed in Jupiter Retrograde , its energies are similar to Saturn while it is in direct motion. Saturn’s energies in direct motion are restrictive. Its energies are challenging and can make life difficult. Saturn is known as the teacher and disciplinarian of the Zodiac. On the other hand, Saturn’s retrograde energies work similar to Jupiter’s energies when in direct motion. As a result, the extreme energies apparent with Saturn in its direct motion become somewhat softened. Saturn direct normally deals with past issues but while in retrograde, it can and will open doors to new things that somehow we may feel familiar with, even though they are new to us. Some Astrologers link Saturn with diseases that have longevity and the duration of their affects are sometimes lengthened due to the influence of Saturn. When Saturn is retrograde in motion, any recovery process with these ailments may become sped up and often the individuals that are involved feel more carefree and worry-less about these conditions in their lives. This is beneficial as any focus or concentration can enhance illness and draw even more energy into these areas. In many cases, disease can stem from adverse reactions to life’s events and it is wise not to allow obstructions or hard lessons to become personal or to own them. This free flow attitude can provide us with ease of moving beyond these experiences. Saturn is often linked to business in some way including searching out a new career, entering into a study program or beginning a new business. During the course of transiting Saturn turning retrograde, it is wise not to enter into any news enterprises or business dealings. It is best to wait for Saturn to turn direct before moving forward in business related activities, even if you may feel somewhat positive about the outcome. Utilize this retrograde time to review your plans and make sure you are ready to move ahead. When Saturn turns direct (even though things might stagnate for a little while or be slowed down) another planet in transit will come along to start the process of moving forward. Check to see which house Saturn is transiting through in your birth chart as this will provide you with some specifics. Also check to see which house natal (birth) Saturn occupies. These houses will both be areas of life affected by the retrograde motion of Saturn. When Saturn is direct in its motion, these areas will be avenues you can move ahead in although it is wise to take things slowly as you move forward. Saturn insists on structure and a solid foundation. If Saturn is poorly aspected in your birth chart, the house where it is situated in may require additional hard work and a conscious effort to resolve any issues related to that area of life. Since Saturn often points towards a dominant individual in your life (sometimes the most restrictive and strict parent or an authority figure in our life), Saturn retrograde in the birth (natal) chart has been associated with that particular individual somehow missing in your life. The most authoritarian parent could be away often perhaps on business or actually missing from your life in early childhood. Wherever Saturn is found in a chart, whether it is in retrograde motion or direct motion, this is often an area of life that requires more work and challenging conditions to overcome. However, it should be pointed out that Saturn is the educator as well as the disciplinarian in the chart, so it also rewards hard work and diligent efforts. Mercury Venus Mars Jupiter Uranus Neptune Pluto Astrology 101 Retrograde

Sun in Cancer Cancer Cancerians may not rationalize everything as might Virgo individuals nor philosophize about life as might Sagittarius individuals but they are attached to the emotions and use their sensitivity to absorb life’s events. Many with strong emphasis in the Sign of Cancer have a real difficult time separating their feelings from their thoughts. They feel what they think and this unique insight can often lead to the opening of channels to intuition and psychic perception, as these gifts are not part of the intellect. With these strong emotional ties to their personality, they are usually known for their gentleness and tranquil nature. Do not be fooled by perhaps their standoffish manner especially when ridiculed or when they feel attacked emotionally for there is a lot that goes on beneath the surface. These individuals are deep and reflective and often prone to emotional confrontations within themselves. They are the mothering and nurturing sign of the Zodiac and are very protective of those they love. As a mother protects her offspring so too will an individual with strong Cancer tendencies. Do not be deceived by their gentle nature for if you threaten their loved ones they will unleash a protective barrier that you will not be able to penetrate. They are overly protective instinctively. They can feel the moods of those around them and will move into their protective shell when they, themselves are threatened, but will lash out if there is emotional danger or physical danger to those they love. As children they are usually very helpful wishing to please and sensitive to their environment. Great harm can be caused and may hinder their development if there is strife within the family unit or in the home environment. They need loving tenderness and should be allowed to explore their great sensitivity at an early age. Do not shut down their emotional makeup. This teaches them to understand their own emotional temperament and will assist them as they mature into themselves over time. If there are any psychic tendencies at a young age these tendencies should be reinforced and they should be allowed to explore this side of their nature rather than be shut down and told that it is not real. The sensitivity that is so inherent within this group of unique individuals can become their greatest asset as time passes or become their weakest element in their psyche if self-expression is hindered. Open yourself to sensitivity and unlock your Cancer tendencies within. Find your expression of this very sensitive sign, Cancer. Astrology 101 Cancer is ruled by Moon and the fourth house . The stone for Cancer is Emerald. An alternative stone is Ruby. The numerous stones associates with Cancer include Brookite, Calcite, Carnelian, Natrolite, Moonstone, Rhodizite, Rose Quartz, Ruby, and Tinaksite. Return to Sun Sign Page

Venus Retrograde Venus Retrograde There is a little less than one and one-half years between Venus’ retrograde cycles. Each cycle lasts about forty days. Venus’s energies are about love and affection and it is also affiliated with beautiful things and our possessions. Venus seeks out comfort and elegance although we always need to look at its sign and house position in the natal chart for complete details. Venus’ energies are connected to our search for peace and tranquility hence its affiliation with Libra and Taurus. When Venus is in its retrograde cycle, it has similarities to the energies of Mars. Naturally, Venus is very passive in its expression while Mars is much more aggressive and pushy. Since Venus is connected to material objectives and love and affection, the push for these things is emphasized although the ability to express love and affection is restricted during the retrograde cycle. Remember retrograde implies that the energies are held back. Personal relationships may not be as easy due to the restrictions on our expression of love and affection. While in retrograde, there is a push, however, to accumulate possessions, and this could include a push towards gaining momentum linked to the finances and acquiring material goods. It has also been said that during the Venus retrograde cycle there can be a tendency to lose something of value, whether that be a personal thing or some love interest. There are, however, no significant indicators that the connection lost cannot be regained. Things may not be lost on a permanent basis but can be regained what was lost once the retrograde cycle is over. Again, it is important to look at the full chart for a clear picture. Mercury Mars Jupiter Saturn Uranus Neptune Pluto Astrology 101 Retrograde

Capricorn Those with a strong emphasis in the sign of Capricorn have a difficult time revealing their emotions. This is not to say that their emotional makeup is less than any other sign, only that much of what they feel remains contained within and is only released when and if it feels appropriate to do so. This does not happen frequently. Their emotions run deep and they feel things on an intense level, but to those around them, they appear to have their emotions in check and offer little of their emotions externally to others. They are contained and reserved with their emotional expression and prefer it this way, probably due to the intensity of their emotions. Most Capricorn individuals are professional in their outward expression. They appear to have their proverbial heads on straight and can generally be relied on to present themselves to the outside world as informed and knowledgeable, particularly in their chosen fields. Many have strong drive when it comes to achieving their objectives and are willing to work hard to move up the corporate ladder. They instinctively understand that everything takes time, due to the influence of their planetary ruler, Saturn . They realize that by using an approach that could be defined as one step at a time, they will gradually make their way in life. They also understand that this approach leads to less mistakes and they will not miss any steps along the way. Being well informed and not just appearing to have the know how is very important to them. They want to be relied on to make the proper decisions based on experience and knowledge. When it comes to love, the seventh house should be taken into account as this describes the potential significant other that they would be attracted to; however, in general these people are looking for a knowledgeable individual, one who can be relied on and is consistent. They will not do well within a flighty partnership as there is a need for stability as well as commitment within the framework of a structured marriage. If they find someone with these criteria and also has a great sense of humour, which will inadvertently help them relax a little and enjoy life, they would feel as though they have attracted the perfect partner. There are often deeply ingrained spiritual or religious ingredients in their personality. They are religious in their own sense although this does not indicate that they will be attracted to traditional religion although this is possible, because of the nature of Saturn. Tradition is important as it has been tried, tested and holds some truth to it. They will not just follow along blindly within cults or religious organizations as they have to understand the religion’s concepts and be comfortable with its teachings. As a friend, Capricorn individuals are very reliable and usually true to their word. They rarely miss appointments and are on time and constant. If they say we will meet at such and such a time, they will be there probably even a little early. If you are late or are a no-show, it will not sit well with them. These characteristics will be interlinked with the many other attributes found within the birth chart, but in general, the above characteristics describes the inner personality of most Capricorn individuals. It is important to remember that we are far more complex than just our Sun signs . Astrology 101 Capricorn is ruled by Saturn and the tenth house . Ruby is the stone representative of Capricorn. Alternative stones include Agate, Azurite, Black Tourmaline, Blue Aragonite, Chalcopyrite, Fluorite, Garnet, Green Tourmaline, Idocrase, Jet, Lapis Lazuli, Magnetite, Malachite, Ocean Jasper, Peridot, Smokey Quartz, and Tigers Eye. Return to Sun Sign Page

The Twelfth House The twelfth house is often said to be a difficult house for it is the house of hidden matter and issues that have been brushed aside and left undone, skeletons in the closest if you will. It is traditionally associated with prisons, hospitals and places that are out of view of the general public. These places are isolated or unknown and work in ways that most would not uncover. Working behind the scenes is a general theme for people who have strong planetary links to this house. It is also considered a secret house and an occult house where the subconscious tends to work relentlessly to uncover unknown factor that lie beneath the surface. It is the house of self-undoing and in many cases, it can signify how someone stands in their own way. We can gain knowledge with inner reflection and open channels to the subconscious and recognizing that they are part of the collective consciousness that envelops us all. Karma is also known to have its domain linked to this house along with charity work and the ultimate understanding of our sub-conscious connection. The sixth and twelfth house deal with service and they constitute service to others. While the sixth house may reflect service to others and the rewards it may bring, the twelfth house speaks of service without rewards, selfless service if you will. It is also linked to secret affairs as well as progressive illnesses and weaknesses within the body that can build over time and be the eventual cause of death. The aspects to the planets within this house and the house cusp ruler can provide information in this regard. You also have to look at the ascendant and the aspects to it as well as the Sun to get a clear picture of chronic health conditions that are suggested in a chart. Astrology 101 The Twelfth House is naturally ruled by Pisces . This house deals with HIDDEN MATTERS and SELF-UNDOING The First House The Second House The Third House The Fourth House The Fifth House The Sixth House The Seventh House The Eighth House The Ninth House The Tenth House The Eleventh House

The Twelve Houses THE TWELVE HOUSES IN ASTROLOGY The snapshot of the heavens at the moment of birth is divided into twelve sections which are referred to as houses. There are several house systems but we will not be discussing these here. For now we will go on the assumption that the house system used is Placidus which is the most commonly used house system in modern (Western) astrology. Equal house and Koch, in this Astrologer's opinion, would be the next two most common house systems. Each house represents a specific energy or area of life where the planets are located. The first Six Houses are considered to be personal Houses, while the last six Houses are considered more universal in their nature, connected to spiritual learning, the occult, higher learning and social conditioning. You can now combine how a planet expresses itself through the sign it is in together with where the planet is located (which house it is located in which represents an area of life) . Remember that even this is only a portion of the equation as we have not touched on the energy of the planet itself or the aspect it is making to other planets. These will be discussed on pages yet to come on our website. Astrology 101 The First House is naturally ruled by Aries . It is the house of SELF The First House The Second House The Third House The Fourth House The Fifth House The Sixth House The Seventh House The Eighth House The Ninth House The Tenth House The Eleventh House The Twelfth House Back to Astrology 101

Jupiter's aspects are almost always considered a positiveas they creates expansion and growth on many levels. Aspects to Mars We are working on this page and will be adding more Mars aspects in the future. Mars is the planet of dynamism and action and instigates activity in your life. Mars specifically deals with the energy that it takes to deal with pressures in your life. Mars can be an aggressive force and when provoked will ignite the urge to fight and stand up for what you feel is your right. The energy of Mars needs an outlet. This could be found in aggressive action, through violence and arguments or through mystical and spiritual avenues of expression. Mars when accompanied particularly with transiting Pluto (transits are planetary movements) will often be found in acts of violence or injuries caused through accidents, heavy machinery or sharp tools. Mars when transiting through certain houses can activate these areas of life and create new beginnings and fresh starts. Specific Aspects Transiting Mars is considered an inner planet moving rapidly through the Zodiac over approximately a two-years period, which includes its retrograde cycle. During its retrograde cycle, the energies of Mars are slowed down and drive and ambition is stagnated. Instead of making commitments and engagements, it is suggested that you take the time to review your upcoming plans and move forward once Mars moves into its direct motion once again. Mars can remain in its retrograde cycle from two to three months. It is important to understand that although Mars remains in its retrograde cycle, its influence will only affect a planet when it is within a 3° orb of influence. As a result of the short influence, we will not be writing aspects by Transiting Mars. To learn more about the aspects to Natal Mars, we invite you to read the transits from Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto. Their effects will be powerful and can last up to three years depending on which planet is making the aspect to Natal Mars with Pluto lasting the longest. Read More About Mars Retrograde Mars Conjunctions Jupiter Conjunct Natal Mars Mars Squares Jupiter Square Natal Mars Mars Trines Saturn Trine Natal Mars Mars Oppositions Jupiter Opposition Natal Mars Saturn Opposition Natal Mars Mars Sextiles Jupiter Sextile Natal Mars Uranus sextile Natal Mars Neptune Sextile Natal Mars BACK TO ASPECTS

Taurus As we move from the fiery sign of Aries into the earth sign of Taurus, we have pushed ourselves out there in the world and are now ready to move into a more secure life situation. Aries instigates aggressive pursuit to make something out of ourselves and Taurus now wants to instil a more sure-footed response. Taurus is all about building a foundation that can stand the test of time. This is often acquired through material means and security is often measured by the rewards offered from a bank account that is slowly but steadily rising. Taurus is security minded and uses determination and discipline to reach their objectives in life. They do not rush out there and stake their claim as Aries individuals would do. Taurus people choose a more solid structure that guarantees success. They are determined and not afraid of hard work. They understand that if this is what it takes to achieve success, then that is the route to take. They are not very spontaneous and like the tried and tested route. They quietly build on this structured ground and move forward in their quest for security. They rarely sway off the chosen path and can be counted on in any situation. In times of strife, they are usually cool-headed and ward off anything that could jeopardize their sense of security through perseverance and staying steadfast. They are very calm individuals although once they become angry, they are quite explosive and have a difficult time settling down. Taurus individuals are very fixed in their ways and also quite opinionated. Some are considered inflexible and stubborn to a fault as they have a difficult time adapting to anything new. They will stubbornly adhere to their ways of doing things. They may not be spontaneous in their decisions, but they will remain true to their word once it is given. This makes them quite reliable and responsible individuals. In loving relationships, they are faithful to their loved ones and will work hard at maintaining a meaningful relationship. They are romantics and also very sensual people. Taurus individuals will lavishly look after those they love with luxury and surround them with beauty. They are very earthy and not inclined to wanderlust activities. They prefer to remain at home as travel is not something that means a whole lot to them. They will, however, travel to keep their loved ones happy. They like structure in their life and anything new that has potential of unsettling their comfortable life can produce anxiety and worry. They like things to be predictable and steady. To uncover more meaning in life, Taurus individuals will school themselves through practical learning and formulated ideas. If this suggests long tedious tasks that require concentrated energy and an ability to keep moving in an intended direction, they can be counted on to reach this destination. Patience is a key character trait that they can rely on throughout their lives. Their motto could be “good things are worth waiting for”. Astrology 101 Taurus is ruled by the planet Venus and the second house. Sapphire is the stone of Taurus. The alternative stone is Emerald. Other stones associated with Taurus include Amblygonite, Blue Tourmaline, Carnelian, Emerald, Kunzite, Kyanite, Rhodonite, Rose Quartz, Selenite, and Variscite. Return to Sun Sign Page