For many people, our present understanding of Astrology is focused upon ones Sun Sign, with all the other planetary influences relative to the Sun.   Although this is a perfectly valid expression of our solar consciousness – with the parallel of the planets revolving around the Sun – this does focus our attention on the self and the ego.  We need to not limit ourselves to developing our characters solely through the qualities of the Sun Sign, but we do need to be aware of our Earth Sign.   In this way, we are able to work with the polarities of our being, balancing the energies of the Sun and the Earth as our psyche is grounded through experience on the earth plane.   As we explore this essential, albeit rather neglected aspect of ourselves, we need to locate our Earth Sign.  This is easy for non-astrologers, as it is always directly opposite our Sun Sign, indicated as follows:

Sun Sign                                  Earth Sign

 

Aries                                        Libra

Taurus                                      Scorpio

Gemini                                      Sagittarius

Cancer                                      Capricorn

Leo                                           Aquarius

Virgo                                        Pisces

Libra                                        Aries

Scorpio                                     Taurus

Sagittarius                               Gemini

Capricorn                                  Cancer

Aquarius                                   Leo

Pisces                                       Virgo

In a Natal Chart, the glyph is easily recognised as a cross within a circle.   It’s always where we need to touch base, in one way or another.   It also represents how we relate to others as we recognise aspects of our self in the mirror of our relationships.   So, this is an opportunity to re-invent ourselves as we open up our perspectives.   Our alter ego awaits……

Aries/Libra

This Earth Sign Libran is challenged through the symbolism of the Scales to exercise discretion in how he/she relates to others.   Through the elemental balance of air, which represents the mind, energy follows thought.   This does present a certain amount of caution and consideration, which curbs the natural impulsiveness or hot-headedness which is often apparent.   The naivete of this child of the Zodiac is tempered by the discretion and discernment of the Libran qualities.  Born leaders with a naturally competitive flair – they enjoy a challenge!   As pioneers and people of action, their ideas are innovative and original.   The grounding in Libra is often needed in order to sustain what they have already committed themselves to…..The Soul Path chosen is that of the Warrior.

Taurus/Scorpio

In the Sign of the Scorpion, the Earth energy is transformative.   Those born with this planetary configuration are inherently strong and determined in their approach to life.   Known to be stubborn, they make loyal friends and are certainly to be relied upon.   Being naturally retentive, they tend to hoard and accumulate possessions.      Their extremely practical nature manifests as an astuteness – particularly in business and material investments.   In affairs of the heart, they are earthy and sensual, tending to be possessive at times.  A highly developed psychic and intuitive ability directs their strong sense of purpose.   Security and stability are priorities, which can make them resistant to change.   The challenge in this particular Taurus/Scorpio dynamic is to sow the seeds of ones potential, and trust in the art of becoming.   The Soul Path chosen is that of the Artiste.

Gemini/Sagittarius

The duality of the Sign of the Twins needs to be directed and focused through its Earth Sign of Sagittarius.    As naturally outgoing and communicative individuals, their curiosity and enthusiasm for life ensures their popularity, although they can be somewhat elusive and find it difficult to commit to anything for very long.   As their mercurial temperament seeks stimulation and a diversity of interests, so they enjoy experimenting and using their very active minds.  The inherent flexibility and adaptability is needed in order to be able to exercise choice and free will.   As this is concentrated and expressed through the higher mind, it is freed from the internal dialogue of the ego, with its boundaries and defences.   With this polarity of Gemini and Sagittarius, the world of ideas and concepts is brought into manifestation under the impetus of spiritual direction.   Knowledge is transmuted into wisdom.   The Soul Path chosen is that of the Teacher.

Cancer/Capricorn

These Earth Sign Capricorns are defined by their tenacity and determination.   This does bring tremendous strength of purpose which  provides the fuel and substance that is needed in order to build strong, firm foundations.   In this way, their goals and objectives are sustainable as they are grounded and anchored in this Earth Sign.   As naturally sensitive and intuitive beings, they can be reclusive at times.   Often finding themselves in a caring role, their ability to empathise and nurture others corresponds to their own need for emotional fulfilment.   The desire to achieve that is characterised in Capricorn is sensitively nurtured and expressed by the Cancerian process of allowing things to just evolve.   This particular polarity stresses the importance of just being as well as doing.   The process becomes the goal, and the goal becomes the process.   The Soul Path chosen is that of the Initiate.

Leo/Aquarius

These Earth Sign Aquarians enjoy being the centre of attention.   They have a child-like sense of fun and spontaneity that endears others to them, and their enthusiasm is appealing in its naivete.   These fiery people are naturally creative and full of ideas, preferring to lead rather than to follow.   Their strength of will and need for personal recognition can sometimes override the need for sensitivity in their personal relationships.   It is in this respect that we look to the Earth Sign in Aquarius so that the inherently creative qualities are expressed and used in ways that benefit others as well as ones self.   The altruistic and humanitarian motivation that is identified in this  Sign of the Water-bearer facilitates the unification of consciousness.   As the ego feels less of a need to compete or dominate, there is a desire to share and connect within the group dynamic.  This represents the Zeitgist of the Age of Aquarius.   The Soul Path chosen is that of the Awakener.

Virgo/Pisces

These Virgoan/Pisceans tend to be perfectionists, with analytical and discerning minds.   The Sign of the Virgin is associated with sorting out the wheat from the chaff which represents the art of discrimination.   Many healers are born under these signs with a natural desire to serve others, and work is seen more in terms of a vocation than just a job.   Their attention to detail and conscientiousness can sometimes become critical, or even obsessive.  The Virgoan’s Earth Sign of Pisces moves beyond the intellect and into the watery domain of the emotions.   This symbol of the Fishes is fluid in its expression of the need to trust and be receptive to a higher order.   This process is one of refinement, as the ego surrenders to the Higher Self.   It transcends the boundaries which are restrictive or inhibitive, and overcomes the well-known Virgoan reticence and reluctance to act.   As the ideals are brought into manifestation, the Soul Path chosen is that of the Devotee.

Libra/Aries

The cardinal qualities of this particular combination are very much in evidence as there is an attraction to positions of leadership and responsibility.   Although Libran/Arians may be initially reluctant to face these challenges – they have hidden strengths – and may surprise themselves and others as they realise their full potential.   True fulfilment can often be achieved through the role of mediator or counsellor.   These people like to build bridges!  As an Earth Sign, Aries is able to harness the strength and courage that is needed to complement the Libran qualities of charm and diplomacy.   In overcoming the indecisiveness that is often present, there emerges a stronger sense of commitment as the Earth energy anchors and defines the underlying sense of purpose.  As he/she pushes through the frontiers of experience, this is the Soul Path of the Pioneer.

Scorpio/Taurus

The earthiness of the Bull lends itself well to the Earth Sign.   It does bring the quality of tenacity to whatever is undertaken.   Obstacles and difficulties are regarded as challenges and hurdles to be overcome – at all costs.   These Earth Sign Taureans have a tremendous investment in living life to the full.   They are resilient and no strangers to confrontation.   Known for their stamina – others tend to rely on them.   As naturally reclusive beings, they enjoy their own company.   Physically – there is a strong constitution.   These people have a close affinity with nature and the earth energies.   Their Achilles’ Heel can be in their emotional neediness, although this does not have to be regarded as a weakness.   Their challenge is to accept and acknowledge the shadow aspects of their nature.   In essence – they must live their truth, and their life become a testament to their principles.   The Soul Path chosen is that of the Alchemist.

Sagittarius/Gemini    

As an Earth Sign, Gemini is receptive to the diversity of life in all its myriad forms.   This opens up unlimited possibilities as the natural versatility of this mutable sign is willing and eager to experiment – to push out the boundaries of experience – and enjoy themselves along the way!   Tending to have a low boredom threshold – they welcome the challenges and see each change as a learning curve.   Their strengths lie in their ability to be spontaneous and responsive to the earthly vibrations.  With this particular polarity, there is an intuitive sense of knowing how and when to make the most of an opportunity.   Their enterprising and astute nature  encourages them to explore alternatives, rather than give up altogether.   Being naturally inventive, they often enjoy an entrepreneurial lifestyle and are communicators par excellence.   Their Soul path is that of the Messenger.

Capricorn/Cancer

In the Sign of the Crab, the influence of our planet, Earth, is deeply embedded in consciousness.   These individuals are particularly sensitive to their environment and to other people’s vibrations.   It is as though they have an antenna which enhances their psychic ability, manifesting as a shrewd and rather canny insight into human nature.   Their need for personal recognition often expresses itself well in business, as they thrive in managerial roles and are well equipped to make executive decisions.   Others recognise the leadership ability and conscientiousness that is their trademark.   The challenge in this particular polarity is to be accepting of themselves as they are – in totality.   Their Soul Path is that of the Mentor.

Aquarius/Leo 

Those people with their Earth Sign in Leo need to cultivate a stronger sense of identity.   Their own self-esteem is often validated by being in the role of the caretaker.   They need to feel that they are making a difference in the whole scheme of things and that others value them for what they are able to contribute.   These individuals are extremely perceptive and their insight has a visionary dimension.   They have the ability to be objective and detached in their perspective on life, cutting through anything that is false or illusionary.   This gift does bring clarity and a certain responsibility with it, placing them in the archetypal role of the Witness.   With their concern for society and the environmental issues of our planet, Earth, they have chosen the Soul Path of the Custodian.

Pisces/Virgo

As an Earth Sign, the Virgoan element of earth feels very much attuned to our elementals and devas.   With this polarity, the Piscean energy is diffused and refined through the sign of the Virgin.   This, in itself, interpenetrates the veil of consciousness as it breaks through the boundaries of limitation.   This can sometimes be a process of elimination, as the life experiences are broken down into more manageable parts.   In a typically practical and methodical way, the Virgoan life of service is then able to be subjugated and elevated to a higher cause.   The challenge in this Pisces/Virgo dynamic is to relinquish any attachment to the ego.   The Soul Path chosen is that of the Healer.

**********************

In our journey through the signs of the Zodiac, there needs to be a re-awakening of the Earth energy.   As we consciously become more attuned to our planetary influences, so the Soul Path we have chosen will be brought into the full manifestation of our own potential.