The Zodiac signs

It is important to remember that our birth charts are a kind of blueprint for our destiny, describing the ways in which our lives are likely to unfold, but we all have free will, and how we react to events is down to our free will. Once we have made a decision the die is cast and our lives evolve around it, BUT the basic predestined blueprint is always there in the background.

THE BASIC TRAITS OF EACH SIGN.

Bear in mind that these are the undiluted characteristics associated with each sign and that they will be either reinforced, overridden, or blended in with other signs, depending on the rest of the chart. Remember that although these sign descriptions were initially written with Sun signs in mind, they can be adjusted to suit the individual planets. For example, Venus in Aries will show the usual brashness and impulsiveness that we associate with Aries, but it will show in the way they conduct relationships - only fools rush in was perhaps coined with Venus in Aries in mind! Likewise, when Mars is in Libra the action and agressiveness normally associated with Mars will be more laid back with these people, they prefer to see the argument from all sides, and balance things out before acting. They are usually very fair minded in how they do things.

   ARIES

  Fire sign, cardinal.

  This is one of the easiest signs to recognise, being what you see is what you get, with very obvious characteristics that include impulsiveness and eagerness. They tend to be headstrong and tactless - act first and think later, which can go against them as they endlessly pursue their chosen goals, thriving on challenge. Whether however they reach their goals is debatable! Energy and enthusiasm go hand in hand with this placement but they can be selfish and impatient. They usually have strong leadership qualities and are quite independent minded, often so in relationships, where they are generally passionate although this will largely depend on their Venus and Mars signs also. When crossed or facing an obstacle, all hell can break loose, either physically or verbally. They really are a fire sign and the word 'me' was written for them!

  TAURUS

  Earth sign, fixed.

  In many ways Taureans typify an earth sign; being very down to earth, sensual, and nature-loving people. They love stability and security, whence they will show great reliability. They are practical, methodical, dependable, preferring routine and resist change more so than other signs but nevertheless cope better than most when getting down to enforced changes. They tend to be slow and resolute in their progress, but usually achieving their wants.

  They are very often jealous and possessive by nature but if this can be overcome make very loving, loyal partners. As well as relationships, Taurus much appreciates other forms of harmonious surroundings in view of it being ruled by Venus, the planet of love and beauty. This may well be arts and crafts, music, or gardening for example. And they tend to love the good things in life, especially food and drink. The materialistic side to them relates more to the accumulation of things than simply having the best - as long as it is of good quality. They are great collectors.