Consider this perspective: if someone were born on September 9, 2025, the sun would be positioned in the constellation Leo. According to sidereal astrology, this would classify your sun sign as Leo, while tropical astrology would categorize you as a Virgo.
What are the Key Planets in Astrology?
Each planet symbolizes various aspects of our psyche and contributes to our identity. The interactions of these planets illustrate our behaviors, reactions to others, and the motivators behind pursuing our dreams.
“They form the fundamental components of our being,” explains Won. “Astrology encapsulates the idea that we are a reflection of the universe and vice versa. The energies of the planets resonate within us.”
A birth chart may contain one, several, or even no planets in a specific house, which is completely normal. Visualize the planets as the spices of the houses—they enhance the flavor. Each planet is a ‘natural ruler’ of a sign, indicating that they express their true essence most vividly in their ruling sign.
The Sun
At its core, the sun represents one’s ego, motivation, and willpower. It travels through all zodiac signs throughout the year.
The Moon
Changing signs approximately every two and a half days, the Moon embodies the emotions, memories, and security of our innermost selves. It illustrates how we nurture ourselves and can guide us towards relaxation by aligning with its phases.
Mercury
Mercury governs communication, travel, and information flow. It dictates how we express our thoughts and on challenging days can be akin to the spread of gossip or unverified information.
Venus
As the planet of love, attraction, beauty, and finance, Venus helps us understand our affections, spending habits, and what ignites our deepest desires. To enhance your beauty routine, explore your Venus sign and house positioning—it reveals how to care for your skin and revitalize your look with makeup.
Jupiter
This abundant and benevolent planet expands our horizons and symbolizes spiritual growth, exploration, and lofty ideals. It guides us in seeking intellectual solutions to emotional challenges.
Mars
This dynamic planet is associated with action, challenge, and conflict. Mars thrives on tension and even seeks drama to fulfill its needs.
Saturn
Stern Saturn embodies commitment, stability, societal structure, and limits imposed on us. It may appear cautious, often taking only as much as it gives in love and finances.
Uranus
In discussions about personal or societal revolutions and transformations, we turn to the defiant Uranus, which inspires protests and increases awareness of global injustices.
Neptune
Often shrouded in illusion, Neptune can generate uncertainty, yet by tapping into our dreams, it enables us to harness our creativity. The deep emotions associated with this planet can inspire artistry that resonates with our souls.
Pluto
Though change is essential for growth, fear can impede our journey. Pluto compels us to adapt and evolve, even when we resist.
North Node or True Node
The North Node represents our ultimate ambitions and can evoke feelings of discomfort due to the new paths it introduces for our souls.
South Node
This node reflects our past experiences and desires. It signifies what we release in this lifetime to evolve into our highest selves.
Rising/Ascendant
According to Won, the Ascendant marks the starting point of your life’s journey. “It denotes the celestial influence that shapes your core identity, how you perceive your reality, and how others perceive you,” she explains. “To me, the Ascendant is pivotal in a birth chart as it defines the foundation of all houses.”
What are the 12 Zodiac Signs?
The zodiac consists of 12 signs corresponding to the 12 constellations. Each sign denotes the period during which the sun illuminates that constellation, reflecting the traits of individuals born in that timeframe.
Aries
Aries, the first sign in the zodiac, belongs to the cardinal fire category. Arians are recognized for their impulsive and brave nature.
Taurus
Taurus, a fixed earth sign, is celebrated for its sensuality, artistry, and stubbornness. Won notes that Taurus prioritizes stability—both materially and emotionally. “It’s dependable and persistent, yet can be quite inflexible and slow,” she adds.
Gemini
Gemini stands as a mutable air sign distinguished by its duality and intellect. As per Won, it is articulate and clever but can also be fickle and restless. Its dual nature reflects intense polarity, “akin to yin and yang energy,” she explains.
Cancer
A cardinal water sign, Cancer represents emotional sensitivity.
Leo
Known for flamboyance, generosity, and loyalty, Leo is a fire sign. “Leos exude charisma and commanding presence, embodying King/Queen energy,” notes Won. “They are exhilarating but can sometimes come across as arrogant and excessive.”
Virgo
Virgo, an earth mutability sign, epitomizes analytical tendencies. “The ultimate perfectionist,” she claims. “They are dedicated, meticulous, yet can be perceived as distant.”
Libra
As an air cardinal sign, Libra seeks equilibrium, harmony, and peace, particularly in law and relationships.
Scorpio
Representing profound transformation and passion, Scorpio is a water fixed sign. “Scorpios delve into deeper emotional realms,” notes Won. “They are fervent and enigmatic but can also be ruthless and secretive.”
Sagittarius
As a fire mutable sign, Sagittarius is recognized for its optimistic outlook and philosophical interests.
Capricorn
Capricorns belong to the earth cardinal sign category, characterized by reflection, discipline, and diligence.
Aquarius
An air fixed sign, Aquarius is celebrated for its avant-garde thinking and humanitarian ideals. Won affirms its uniqueness, independence, and open-mindedness, while also suggesting they may tend to be solitary.
Pisces
Pisces, a water mutable sign, is known for being intuitive, creative, and emotional.
What are the 12 Houses in a Birth Chart?
In astrology, the birth chart encompasses 12 houses, each representing different facets of life. Each house is linked to a natural sign and a planetary ruler that enhances its significance.
1st House (Ascendant or AC)
The 1st House indicates your essence, reflecting how you present yourself and what others perceive first about you. If any planets occupy your 1st House, they will greatly influence your overall personality and energy.
2nd House
This house symbolizes personal finances and material wealth, revealing your earning potential and innate desires for material possessions, self-esteem, and self-worth.
3rd House
The third house highlights communication styles and educational experiences. It also provides insights into relationships with siblings and roommates.
4th House
This house reflects your values and familial connections, uncovering your personal foundations and how you nurture your home life.
5th House
Your affinity for recreation, creativity, and casual romances is evaluated in this house. It reveals how, when, and why you find attraction to others and your dating preferences.
6th House
The 6th House pertains to health, routine, and self-care practices. If you’re pondering a spa day, this can help pinpoint the optimal times for rejuvenation.
7th House
This area of your birth chart explores how and with whom you love. Insights here can illuminate the ideal partner you’d consider for a committed relationship.
8th House
Transformation and personal evolution are core themes of this house. It outlines your approach to financial matters such as credit card debt and salary increments.
9th House
This house is linked to higher education, travel, philosophies, and adventurous pursuits. Insights here reveal what subjects resonate with you and how to explore your personal belief system.
10th House
The 10th House concentrates on your public persona—how you present yourself and your desired reputation in the world. It also encompasses your career direction and status.
11th House
This house outlines your social circles, friendships, and group affiliations, delineating which members of your community support you and stand for shared causes.
12th House
Gaze into this house to uncover the visions and dreams that inspire you. This part of your chart emphasizes that by clearing your mind and trusting your intuition, you can achieve clarity regarding your questions and challenges.