Underworld Astrology

The Home of Fireside Astrology: Warm, Grounded and Steady Guidance Through Transformational Times

recent posts

  • The Changeling: Gemini Style Guide

    The Changeling: Gemini Style Guide

    When: May 21st-June 20th

    Modality: Mutable

    Element: Air

    Ruling Planet: Mercury

    In the previous post for this series, I introduced Aries, as The Catalyst. If you’d like to explore Aries personal styling, click here.

    The Changeling:

    Now you see them, now you don’t and The Changeling wants to keep it that way. It’s easier for them to move through the world as something of a trickster and a shapeshifter, forming to their environment as needed. Sometimes they are a joker or an entertainer; sometimes they are a trickster, but they are always sharp and incredibly intelligent, so much so that they can be quite detached from the people with whom they come into contact. This doesn’t matter to The Changeling, however, because they only ever do something because they want to do it. They don’t care about your approval, because they are always one step ahead of you. The Changeling represents all the duality of life- the light and dark, the good and evil, they are two or three or four people inhabiting one body and they shape shift at will. You cannot catch them or hold them, for just as the elemental fae of their namesake, they must be free.

    Photo by Wyxina Tresse on Unsplash

    In The Underworld:

    The Changeling roams the Underworld of their own free will, as they are one of only a few archetypes that can come and go as they please. Their sacred assignment is to show the new souls of the Underworld that appearances can be deceiving, and therefore to never trust the surface level. There is strange wisdom to their madness, and if you choose to take on their challenge, they can show you marvelous new worlds that were right in front of you. All you have to do is change how you think and accept the fact that we are all multifaceted. In addition, The Changeling teaches new souls to shamelessly collect as much information as possible. For them, knowledge is power and they can use it to hurt, to connect, to manipulate and to gain what they desire. And now- so can you.

    Symbolism:

    From Gemini’s ruler, Mercury (the Greek god Hermes), The Changeling takes the airy, intellectual, and changeability that comes from flitting from one subject to the next and being able to examine a topic from multiple angles. If The Changeling seems scattered, it’s probably because the subject at hand no longer interests them. Because they are incredibly intelligent (though their playfulness, curiosity and sense of humor may bely this), they often grasp topics incredibly quickly. They may not share this fact, preferring to remain somewhat of a mystery. These mischievous beings often collect knowledge to use again later OR as a way to feed their curious natures.

    Sacred symbols of The Changeling include the color yellow, the lovers and magician cards in tarot, the planet Mercury, crossroads, and trickster gods, such as the African spider god Anansi.

    Style Needs:

    The Changeling’s ultimate style need is flexibility and diversity in their wardrobe. In fact, there are multiple ways to enjoy The Changeling style. If you are a true Changeling or choose to embrace it as a primary archetype, you will probably have multiple style elements in your closet. Style starts out as a mental exercise for The Changeling. When choosing an outfit, they will ask themselves which version of themselves they most feel like at any given moment. Changelings are truly kaleidoscopic. After they have figured out their goal mentally, they need style to feel easy, fun, light and airy. Nothing should feel too heavy or stuffy. Even if they go for a darker aesthetic, there has to be an element of whimsicality to it. Life’s too short for a stuffy, boring style.

    What to Wear:

    Intrigued yet? As we discussed prior, The Changeling needs a lot of variety in their wardrobes so that they can show off the entirety of who they are. They might change on a whim, going through multiple outfit changes in a day. They might have one outfit planned and then get there only to decide that it doesn’t represent who they feel like anymore. Or, if they’re slightly more organized, they might divide their wardrobes into capsules (i.e. one aesthetic for loungewear, one for professional wear etc).

    • Every Day: On a daily level, The Changeling needs spontaneous, expressive style choices that can keep up with their mercurial natures- such as combining unexpected color combos or combining pieces that don’t look like they’d go together. The Changeling should always be comfortable with their outfits being somewhat of a conversation starter.
    • Loungewear: The Changeling’s mind never stops, so when they’re home, they’re likely multitasking until they finally crash. Loungewear should be eclectic and comfortable with a dose of fairycore inspired magic.
    • Professional: For The Changeling, work shouldn’t feel like work. That would be boring. They do best in environments that allow them to bring their unique combo of intellectual curiosity and sparkling wit and charm with them. Work outfits should be combine interesting patterns and textures with an academia inspired fit.
    • After Dark: For after dinner drinks, dates or social events, the Changeling transforms into a flirtatious, slightly chaotic and edgy creature, somewhat inspired by the fae. Outfits that combine whimsical or ethereal elements combined with edgy or tough textures, will help them charm anyone who comes their way.
    • Workout: The Changeling needs workouts that will keep their minds, as well as their bodies engaged. Because of this, they enjoy novelty and workouts where they can socialize. The Changeling needs fun, bold athletic basics that can easily shift from HIIT to pilates to a walk with a friend.

    Style Staples:

    • Color blocked sneakers
    • Cropped yellow sweater
    • Whimsical graphic tees
    • Mod-inspired A-line dress
    • Pale green organza dress
    • Soft floral midi skirt
    • Earrings with celestial designs (planetary, mushroom, wings, etc)
    • Color shifting slip dresses
    • Patterned wide leg pants or culottes
    • Plaid mini or pleated skirt
    • Corduroy blazer
    • Mary Janes

    Outfit Cheat Sheet:

    To get you started, here are some outfits you can throw together with stuff you probably already have in your closet. In case you’re just getting started, here some ideas to channel Changeling energy.

    • Casual: Ditzy floral shirt + jeans or trousers + two-toned loafers + colored chunky earrings
    • Workout: Butter yellow sports bra + matching wide leg yoga pants + color blocked sneakers + braided space buns
    • Date/Party: Green organza dress + color shifting waterfall cardigan + silver butterfly necklace + little pink purse
    • Professional: Yellow cardigan+ toadstool patterned pussy bow blouse + black trousers + yellow and green color-blocked flats + black fedora + brown book bag
    • Loungewear: Playful oversized graphic tee + patterned leggings + fluffy green socks

    Check out more styling ideas on the dedicated Changeling Pinterest boards here.

    Fabrics:

    Fabric Keywords: Versatile, lightweight, airy, whimsical, crisp, playful, flexible, clever

    Fabrics to Shop For: lightweight cotton, tweed, mesh, tulle, organza, chiffon, iridescent satin, tweed, jersey, crinkled gauze, soft lace, cotton voile, muslin, corduroy, plaid flannel, linen blends

    See More

    Patterns:

    When shopping for patterns for The Changeling, look for those that are clever, intellectual, witty, enchanting, surreal, eclectic and expressive. Here are some examples:

    1. Celestial or mystical inspired prints: stars, moons, occult symbols, etc
    2. Geometric and Optical Illusions: zig zags, wave, spirals, checkerboard
    3. Retro Inspired: Color blocking, polka dots
    4. Surreal: Patchwork prints, surreal figures, doodles
    5. Fairycore: Small woodland animals, toadstools, butterflies, wings
    6. Academic Inspired: Clothes with writing, houndstooth, Glen Plaid
    7. Mismatched Prints: Pattern mixing (florals on top and polka dots on the bottom), collage inspired

    See More Here…

    Accessories:

    Accessories should feel fun, versatile and should be able to go from one outfit to the other, since The Changeling likes to mix and match. There should be a combination of different aesthetic designs, all designed for the social, on-the-go nature of The Changeling.

    Jewelry: Whimsical, clever, and layered

    • Layered charm bracelets or necklaces
    • Miniature lockets or pendants with secret compartments
    • Stacked bracelets or bangles
    • Mood rings or holographic jewelry
    • Fairycore inspired jewelry

    Bags: Compact, convertible, and fun

    • Crossbody bags
    • Mini backpacks
    • Convertible bags
    • Tote bags that tell a story
    • Belt bags and Fanny packs

    Shoes: Fun, Flexible, and Comfortable

    • Two-tone oxfords or brogues
    • Mary Janes and T-Straps
    • Color blocked sneakers
    • Jelly sandals
    • Mod-inspired high top sneakers
    • Ballet flats in fun textures
    • Boots with star cutouts or embroidery
    • High Top sneakers with star print
    • Velvet ballet flats

    Others: Bonus accessories so you’re prepared for anything

    • Sunglasses: Round, retro or heart-shaped frames with holographic lenses
    • Hats: Newsboy hats, mini berets, bucket hats
    • Statement belts
    • Enamel pins, brooches, patches added to bags and jackets
    • Convertible scarves in a variety of patterns

    Color Palette:

    Overall, the Catalyst color palette is light, airy and breezy but at times, given the unpredictability of their style desires, will change from being very playful to very moody. The Catalyst is likely to play with extremes of color while always maintaining a color scheme that never feels too heavy. If they wear darker colors, they’re likely to do so with fabrics that catch light OR that have some time of iridescence or sheen on top. The most important color for The Catalyst is a light, cheerful yellow. Below is the primary Catalyst color palette and in addition, palettes adjusted to each color season.

    Power Color: Buttercup yellow

    Core Colors: Sky blue, lavender, mint green, pearl white

    Accent Colors: Canary yellow, periwinkle, silver, lilac pink

    Neutrals: Pale sand, driftwood, dove grey, stone grey, chalk white

    Seasonal Color Analysis:

    Seasonal color analysis is a style system that is about helping people harmonize their clothing with their coloring. First popular in the 1980s, it has now had a resurgence in popularity thanks to social media. If you’re new to color analysis, click here. If you know your color season, here are some custom palettes combining Changeling color principles with your season.

    Spring:

    If you use one of the spring color palettes, focus on your pale pastels and the light, bright colors. Suggested colors for you include: buttercup yellow, aqua blue, apple green, coral, warm ivory, peach fuzz, goldenrod, warm periwinkle, sunlight yellow, and pale turquoise.

    Summer:

    If you consider yourself a summer, you should still easily be able to use the Changeling color palette. Here are some colors to use: lavender, powder blue, silver grey, rose quartz, soft white, wisteria, pale mint, bluebell, cool taupe, and dusty lilac.

    Winter:

    While the Changeling’s coloring tends to be on the paler, more pastel side, winter Changelings can still play with colors like these: icy blue, lemon yellow, fuschia, magenta, graphite, crisp white, cobalt, plum, emerald, silver, and black and white stripes.

    Autumn:

    The autumn palettes are probably naturally the farthest away from the Changeling’s core palette, however, you still have plenty of choices if you wish to play with this archetype. Choose these colors: mustard yellow, sage green, terracotta, olive, cream, burnt sienna, camel, antique gold, copper and moss.

    Chart Notes:

    At this point, you might be asking yourself how much of The Changeling do you really need? Assuming that most people will use a combination of 3-4 archetypes, your use of this archetype will depend on how much Gemini you have in your chart and where it is placed. Here are some examples for how to apply it to your chart.

    Gemini Rising (or Mercury Rising): This is likely a primary archetype for you. You primarily approach life as something of a fascination or curiosity, always on the look out for something fun, exciting or intriguing to occupy your time and attention. With Gemini rising, you probably tend towards more of the whimsical or quirky inspired looks, while Mercury rising may have you leaning more academic. Either way, you have likely tried them all and they can all benefit you, depending on the situation.

    Gemini Sun: You benefit from the flexibility and diversity that Changeling style offers for you. Choose pieces that reflect your inquisitive mind and your lightning fast sense of humor- airy, breezy and not someone who takes themselves (or life) too seriously. A solid every day look for you is a Breton striped shirt, bright blue trousers, color blocked sneakers and a mini black beret.

    Gemini Venus: Time to dip into the dreamier, seductive qualities of the Changeling, which means mixing whimsical fairycore inspired pieces with academic or edgy ones. For example, a pale blue mini dress combined with a leather jacket and western style boots with stars on them.

    Gemini Mars: If you have fiery Mars in this airy, breezy sign, then you probably feel a little unfocused and ungrounded when it comes to your exercise routine. You need bright, bold and colorful workout pieces that can transition between activities as quickly as you can. No boring activewear here. Have fun with it.

    Gemini Midheaven: Your public reputation is one of adaptability, curiosity, and a clear intellectual nature. Focus on looks that combine academic or traditional professional elements but that come in distinct colors, dynamic patterns or some other spin that is precisely you. For example, you might try a bright yellow blazer, combined with a solid white shirt, some patterned polka dot trousers and some two toned oxfords.

    Gemini IC: Our sign on the IC (opposite our midheaven) indicates our most private self, not to mention the types of things we might like in our home environment. If you have Gemini here, you might have a very playful, curious and intellectual nature that others aren’t aware of. You likely do a lot of multitasking at home, so your loungewear needs to be able to keep up. You might find that you do your most experimenting in the privacy of your own home. Indulge your sensitive, whimsical side by combining an oversized graphic tee with a message that makes you laugh, with some magical printed lounge pants and some fuzzy green socks.

    The Shadow:

    The Changeling doesn’t always want to admit this, but they are social creatures and want to feel like they belong to something. Because of this, they can be very sensitive to rejection from people thinking that their clothing choices are not serious or grown-up enough. The problem is that most people look at the surface here and just see this very charming and inquisitive person, who seems to just laugh everything off. But they miss the very thoughtful, caring person underneath. Accept that not everyone is for you and that you’re not for everyone. And please, don’t dress for how you think others want to see you. The Changeling’s power is in dressing for themselves and then bringing people together that way.

    In Conclusion:

    Because all things must come to an end, we’ve reached the end of this comprehensive styling guide. The Changeling is the ultimate shapeshifter- curious, adaptable, sociable and whipsmart. This shows up in the diverse and ever changing aesthetics that they try. Regardless of how much Gemini you have in your chart, these astrological style archetypes are designed for the maximum amount of flexibility for anyone to use.

    Experiment with Changeling styling this week by picking one of the aesthetic groups listed above and putting an outfit together with some of those pieces. What flavor of Changeling will you be? Need ideas: this summer pair a yellow maxi dress with some butterfly sandals and some matching wing earrings and charm necklace.

  • The Catalyst: Aries Style Guide

    The Catalyst: Aries Style Guide

    When: March 19th- April 20th

    Modality: Cardinal

    Element: Fire

    Ruling Planet: Mars

    In the initial post for this series, The Astro Style Parlor, I talked about how on our quest for meaningful and authentic personal style, we can use our birth charts to give us clues about how to dress ourselves. Astrological styling is a tool that can be used strictly OR can be used for certain scenarios. As in all things astrology-related, this is a choose-your-own adventure type of a system. In this post, I’d like to introduce you to Aries- The Catalyst.

    The Catalyst:

    The Catalyst rushes in where angels fear to tread, always on guard and ready for a fight. Life is a battlefield, she says and she’s dressed and ready to face whatever gets in her way. She is a tactical and strategic thinker, always ready for action, movement and excitement. Like the first flowers of spring, she pushes through wherever she is and says “I’m here.” For The Catalyst, any time is the right time to start something new. She’s not waiting around for permission, she’s getting a move on. The Catalyst has a great need to assert her will onto the environment in front of her and anyone or anything that gets in her way will face her wrath. A guardian of inner fire, The Catalyst has a deep and abiding sense of her self that she never loses. She has a strong sense of her own boundaries and her anger acts as a way to help her maintain her independence in a world that often tells her that she’s too impetuous, impatient and self-centered for her own good. What people don’t see is that she’s very loyal to the people and causes that inspire her fire. The Catalyst has an instinctive sense of what needs to be initiated and she relies on other people to see her visions through. Representing the tension between instinct and fear, The Catalyst just sees fear as another roadblock. ‘Move out of the way,’ she says. ‘I’m here.’

    Photo by Anna Popović on Unsplash

    In The Underworld:

    You’ll find The Catalyst on a battlefield reminding all the warriors who enter her domain how to remember their own inner fire. On this fiery battlefield, The Catalyst crosses swords with all of those souls who are learning how to listen to their gut instinct, channel their own courage and tactically dispatch their inner demons. The Catalyst takes her tactical, strategic mind and puts it to use by also teaching all new souls who cross that their anger is a sacred expression of their own boundaries and power. Whenever she sees someone in need of a little push, she’s not afraid to give it. When not on the battlefield, she’s probably training. She needs to channel her energy into something physical and productive, so she makes an excellent athlete with a gladiator’s edge, as well.

    Symbolism:

    The Catalyst takes after the warring nature of Aries’ ruler, Mars (from the Roman for Ares). Courageous, bold and unafraid of a fight, The Catalyst is fierce and willing to defend their territory. They see anger and rage as sacred emotions within us that can teach us about our emotional boundaries. While they’re not great at respecting their own physical boundaries (since they have the tendency to go too fast, too hard), they always trust their inner gut to tell them when something seems unjust or wrong.

    Sacred symbols include the Mars glyph, the color red, anything battle inspired, the Tarot cards The Fool, The Tower and The Emperor, red crystals, such as jasper and red carnelian.

    Style Needs:

    From a practical standpoint, The Catalyst is a bit of a utilitarian dresser. Despite their love of bold and daring choices, they cannot stand when any article of clothing impedes their movement. This is why they’re often found in styles that combine practicality with some boldness, toughness and edge. They favor styles that combine athletic-wear with military inspired elements, workwear and outdoor gear, as well as anything that might be associated with high octane sports like motorcycling, boxing, MMA, bungee jumping or skydiving.

    What to Wear:

    By this point, you’re probably wondering what to wear, so let’s discuss. When channelling The Catalyst, you need to get into the mindset of gearing up for your day. The Catalyst wants to make the biggest impact they can in the most low maintenance way possible.

    1. Every Day: On an every day basis, The Catalyst is focused on effortless power dressing. Focus on mixing structured pieces with relaxed, athletic basics. Use bold colors with accessories and details that look tough. For example- a leather jacket with a graphic tee and black leggings.
    2. Lounge: The Catalyst at home is probably not resting in any concrete way, simply saving up energy for her next challenge. In order to be prepared for anything, try out matching athleisure sweat suits in warm colors or pair an oversized band hoodie with leggings.
    3. Professional: The Catalyst does best in professional environments where they constantly feel challenged but don’t feel micromanaged and their outfits will reflect this. Thing strong, angular lines mixed with more casual pieces, like a red suit jacket and pinstripe pants with some black and white sneakers.
    4. Date Night: Out on the town, The Catalyst is ready to dress to impress, but still in their very ‘look but don’t touch’ kind of way. Try out a red satin dress with some high heeled gladiator sandals and pair it with a distressed military jacket.
    5. Workout: For the fast, furious and intense workouts that The Catalyst enjoys, make sure to slip on your toughest sneakers and combine them with a coordinated set in bright, warm tones to have you prepared and ready for action, wherever your gym takes you.

    Style Staples:

    • Moto Jackets
    • Fitted body suits
    • Cropped tops
    • Tough boots
    • Utility jackets and gear
    • Moto inspired detailing
    • Statement or ‘weapon’ inspired jewelry
    • Athletic wear
    • Red dress (swap the LBD for a red version instead)
    • Red power boots or statement sneakers

    Outfit Cheat Sheet:

    Ready to channel The Catalyst right away? Here are a few easy combos to get you started.

    1. Cool but Casual: Cropped band tee + cargo joggers + red or white sneakers + vintage sunglasses OR Oversized denim jacket + tank top + leather jacket.
    2. Warrior Inspired Workout Look: High neck crop top + utility vest or windbreaker + compression leggings + bold sneakers OR matching activewear set in red, orange or metallic tones with fingerless gloves.
    3. Magnetic but Dangerous Date Night Look: Red slip dress + black leather jacket + strappy combat heels + gold statement jewelry OR graphic tee + leather mini + ankle boots + bold lip
    4. Professional with an Edge: Structured blazer + graphic blouse + straight leg trousers + pointed boots OR Structured jumpsuit + belt bag + matte lips + killer heels
    5. At Ease, Soldier: Oversized red sweatshirt + black leggings + tall grey athletic socks + a sweat headband

    Check out The Catalyst Pinterest boards here.

    Fabrics:

    Fabric Keywords: Assertive, practical, tough, sleek, daring, athletic, utilitarian, modern

    Fabrics to look for: Leather (real or vegan), denim, canvas, cotton, jersey knit, bamboo/modal, ribbed knits, mesh, performance fabrics, wool suiting, metallic finishes

    Patterns:

    When shopping for patterns for The Catalyst, look for patterns that evoke intensity, daring, motion and a sense of purpose. Some examples include:

    1. Stripes/lines (angular and/or broken): diagonal, chevron or racing stripes, bold pinstripes, broken or disrupted stripes that invoke scars
    2. Abstract flames or smoke motifs: stylized or hand drawn fire forms, wave-like motion, or fractal heat maps.
    3. Angular Geometrics: triangles, chevrons, and pointed shapes- extra points if they’re bold or high contrast.
    4. Color Blocking: clean contrast with bold colors like red, black and white
    5. Warrior Inspired Prints: ink lines, stylized arrows, symbolic runes
    6. Animal Prints
    7. Techwear Patterns: Grids, maps, terrain lines because no one crosses into your territory

    Accessories:

    These should feel bold, purposeful and match the utilitarian warrior vibe of The Catalyst. Basically, they don’t want anything weighing them down, so everything should have a function or be used to reinforce the message of boldness, independence and power.

    Jewelry: Minimalist, powerful and angular

    • Wide metal cuffs or arm bands
    • Stacked rings or signet rings
    • Spiked or geometric earrings
    • Pendant necklace with Aries inspired symbols: Mars glyph, arrows, lightning bolts or flames
    • Red Stones: Carnelian, garnet, ruby, red jasper, or fire opal in bronze settings
    • Ear Cuffs and Climbers
    • Geometric studs or spikes

    Bags: Essentialist, minimal, tough, rugged and preferably hands free

    • Crossbody or Belt bags
    • Structured satchels or backpacks
    • Convertible bags
    • Bold hardware like exposed zippers, buckles, or chain straps

    Shoes: Choose shoes that are as bold and powerful as you are with a rugged edge and a functional finish.

    • Combat Boots
    • High top sneakers
    • Pointed toe heels/ boots
    • Gladiator or cage sandals
    • Chunky loafers or platforms
    • Moto inspired boots

    Others: Some other essential accessories for The Catalyst include:

    • Sunglasses: Sharp, angular frames, aviator or wrap style
    • Utility or statement belts
    • Fingerless gloves in leather or mesh
    • Bold scarves or headwraps
    • Hats- these should be minimalist, sporty or functional

    Color Palette:

    Overall, The Catalyst color palette is bold, warm and fiery. If you use a different color palette, find your warmest, most fiery inspired colors and use those. The most important color for The Catalyst is red, so prioritize the ones you can and leave out the ones you don’t want to use. Below are Catalyst inspired colors for each season.

    Power Color: Bright red

    Core Palette: scarlet red, crimson, orange red, and brick red.

    Accent Colors: Bright coral, sunset orange, golden yellow, deep burgundy

    Neutrals: Warm beige, Camel, terracotta, rust, golden sand, charcoal grey, olive drab, ivory, black

    Seasonal Color Analysis:

    Seasonal color analysis is a style system that is about helping people harmonize their clothing with their coloring. First popular in the 1980s, it has now had a resurgence in popularity thanks to social media. If you’re new to color analysis, click here. If you know your color season, here are some custom palettes combining Catalyst color principles with your season.

    Autumn:

    If you use an autumn color palette, you’ll find a lot of ease and comfort in The Catalyst’s color palette. Look for these colors to add to your wardrobe- brick red, burnt sienna, olive, mustard, deep teal, rust, forest green, mahogany, camel, warm taupe, espresso, copper, terracotta, pumpkin, bronze, metallic gold.

    Spring:

    If you use one of the spring color palettes, following The Catalyst color palette should be pretty easy. Look for these colors in your palette- geranium or poppy red, goldenrod, green grass, coral, tomato red, aqua, buttercup, warm sand, light ivory, cream, cantaloupe, tangerine, turquoise, bright gold and rose gold.

    Winter:

    While The Catalyst’s palette naturally tends towards warm tones, if you use the winter palette, you’ll still have a lot to work with to get the same effect. Look for these colors- crimson, black, white, electric blue, cherry red, vivid magenta, emerald, charcoal, true navy, fuchsia, cobalt, silver, chrome.

    Summer:

    On the outset, the summer palette seems farthest from The Catalyst’s natural coloring, but nothing should stop you from your goals if you use one of the summer palettes. Focus on the smoky colors for the closest effect. Here are the colors to look for- rosewood, raspberry, smoky plum, cool berry, French blue, soft magenta, dusty mauve, cool taupe, dove grey, powder blue, periwinkle, rose quartz, icy lavender, brushed silver, white gold.

    Chart Notes:

    At this point, you might be asking yourself how much of The Catalyst do you really need? Assuming that most people will use a combination of 3-4 archetypes, your use of this archetype will depend on how much Aries you have in your chart and where it is placed. Here are some examples for how to apply it to your chart.

    Aries Rising (or Mars rising): This is likely a primary archetype for you. You inherently approach life as a battle to win. You can choose to go either the sporty, minimalistic expression (to channel Aries’ athleticism OR go the more battle/combat ready). No matter what, keep it high impact and low maintenance.

    Aries Sun: You benefit from The Catalyst’s combat ready, battle orientation since you inherently see life as something to win. Choose pieces that reflect your leadership abilities- structured, angular, and powerful.

    Aries Venus: On date nights or nights when you want to channel your femininity, keep it magnetic, bold and dangerous. Replace the LBD with the red dress and pair it with something dangerous, like a leather jacket or combat boots. BOOM goes the dynamite.

    Aries Mars: You likely favor bold, high impact workouts that challenge you, like boxing, martial arts and Crossfit (warrior much?). Go for matching athleisure sets in red, color blocking with red and black or pair a muscle tee with sneakers. Everything should be edgy and sharp.

    Aries Midheaven: You’re no wallflower. You were born to take up space in the world and no one can hold you back. Choose your professional gear to maintain your fierce impact. Structured elements, geometric shapes, shoulder pads, but also remember that you’re not stuffy and you need to be battle ready at all times. You might like to pair red suit pieces with combat boots or even sneakers to keep things more lowkey.

    Aries IC: Our sign on the IC (opposite our midheaven) indicates our most private self, not to mention the types of things we might like in our home environment. If you have Aries here, home is a stopping place between activities or a place to meet your own goals, continue your training or pick your next battle. Opt for matching sweat suits in warm tones, graphic tees with moto inspired leggings or oversized tee shirts with shorts and tall sports socks.

    The Shadow:

    All of the archetypes have a dark side, and for The Catalyst, their desire for newness can lead them to an overconsumption problem. Because they always want their wardrobes to feel new and exciting, they might find themselves with closets full of stuff that brought them a small thrill when they bought them, but no longer or never did have a functional use for them. The Catalyst does well to ask themselves ‘Will I actually use this in a functional way?’ when they’re shopping. They should also not shop just to fill a void, and instead channel their fire into a new project, goal or better yet, a physical activity in which they can burn some energy off.

    In Conclusion:

    Because all things must come to an end, we’ve reached the end of this comprehensive styling guide. The Catalyst is bold, dynamic, free spirited and wholeheartedly themselves. This shows up in the raw, trailblazing fashion choices that they make. These astrological style archetypes are designed for the maximum amount of flexibility for anyone to use.

    Experiment with embracing your inner Catalyst. Throw on a red silk or satin and pair it with some kick butt combat boots, buy yourself a fiery red bathing suit for summer paired with some studded sandals or pair a graphic tee with some cut up shorts. Let me know in the comments how embracing this archetype empowered you.

  • Meeting the Dark Goddess Within

    Meeting the Dark Goddess Within

    For thousands of years, there has been a side of the Feminine that has been repressed, denied, rejected and denigrated and it most typically shows up in the qualities and attributes of The Dark Goddess. The Dark Goddess exists in goddess pantheons throughout the world, but some of the most commonly heard of Dark Goddesses include Hecate, Persephone, Kali, The Morrigan, Baba Yaga, Eris, Maman Brigitte, Erishkigal, Lilith, The Morrigan,Marzanna and Sedna; amongst others. The common factors of these goddesses is that they tend to represent the types of things that society would like to remain hidden or locked behind doors. The Dark Goddess shows that women are not and cannot merely be relegated to the roles of daughter, wife, and mother, but that they are also allowed to openly display anger, rage, grief, rebellion, self sufficiency, power and ambition. These goddesses are comfortable with sex, the natural bodily processes, decay, death, the Underworld, female magic and the nature of the worlds beyond our own. And these goddesses are terrifying to the patriarchal establishment, which exists because of the centuries long denigration of the Dark Goddess.

    Photo by Neven Krcmarek on Unsplash

    But, she’s making a comeback in all kinds of circles, including the spiritual and New Age ones. In the personal style and dating spheres, she has shown up in guides, gurus and videos on how to ’embrace your dark feminine energy.’ In pop culture, she reared her head as the wildly popular ‘Me Too’ movement, which demanded that women who had suffered sexual abuse and harassment should be listened to, respected and helped. In general, through the collective awakening of The Dark Goddess, women have become much more outspoken about their needs, desires and have stopped asking permission to take up space.

    If you’re just starting out on your own Dark Goddess journey, you might be wondering where even to begin. The Dark Goddess invites you to descend within yourself, and she can be used as an extraordinary internal guide to your own shadow work journey. In particular for women (or anyone who identifies with the feminine), the Dark Goddess can help give shape to your unconventional traits that you may have repressed or hidden away either due to overt or subtle cues from your family, community and society at large.

    Astrologically, one of the most popular points to do Dark Goddess work is with Lilith. Archetypal Lilith is representative of the witch and the wild woman. She has come to be known as Adam’s first wife who refused to lie beneath him, demanding equal treatment. When she didn’t receive it, she left and refused to come back, even after watching her children be killed by G-d’s angels. The Lilith story begins with a desire to be seen for one’s authentic self, a wounding around that place within yourself and then a rejection of the core wound by others. Being rejected for your Lilith traits can bring about great feelings of grief, sadness, anger, rage, as well as feelings of otherness. You might feel ‘out in the wild alone’ at this point in your chart. But, like all journeys of descent, there is a way out when you can name and face the wound, and then choose to engage with it in new ways, using it as a source of power and healing, as opposed to just seeing it as a spot in which you are laid bare.

    Another astrological archetype for Dark Goddess work is Eris. Located in 2005, Eris’ discovery caused quite a stir in the astronomical community, demoting Pluto to a mere dwarf planet (I’m sure Hades has much to say about that). The name Persephone was considered, as well, but rejected due to the fact that there is already an asteroid named after the Goddess of Spring. In my opinion, I think that Eris has a feeling of both mythological Eris, the goddess of discord, as well as the Shadow Queen feeling of Persephone. In myth, Eris is linked to Ares (Mars), as a battle field companion and the instigator of the Trojan War. She has a strong sense of justice, fairness and a willingness to fight for what she believes in, even in spite of a strong feeling of being left out or rejected. Her link to Persephone is that her nature as a Dark Goddess brings her directly in line with all the Underworld themes of death, decay, destruction, and also rebirth and renewal. Indeed, Persephone mythologically co-ruled the Underworld with Hades with a just and fair hand, she was always seeking retribution and the right path. Similarly, Eris knows that sometimes survival means pitting yourself against the darkness of humanity, but she also knows that some fights are worth it, because they bring you the things you truly desire.

    Finally, I like working with Sedna. A dwarf planet that was discovered in 2003, she was named for the Inuit woman Sedna who was betrayed by her own father. Upon finding out that her husband had deceived her, her father tried to rescue her, but betrayed her when the sea became so choppy that he feared for his own life. He threw her from the boat, chopping her fingers off as he went and she fell into the sea, to be reborn as an ocean goddess. The story went that as she sank, she grew a tale, her fingers turned into sea animals and other marine life. Her story shows a woman who didn’t want to follow the traditional path of marriage that was set out for her, and that when she finally succumbed, the path brought her abandonment and betrayal by men she thought she could trust. But, this path also led her to being reborn to the magic and divinity within her. Sedna is also a slow moving planet and so, like Eris, is only really relevant if she is touching one of your inner planets or an angle. To me, she feels like a combination of a female Neptune and Pluto or Persephone- like figure, deeply connected to the shifting currents of the ocean and animal life, as well as destined to rule the abyss of a watery Underworld, someone who is intimately acquainted with betrayal and abandonment.

    I will be exploring the manifestation of these and other Dark Goddess archetypes in later series. Until then, some journaling prompts for you:

    Which pieces of the Dark Goddess most resonate with you? Why?

    Do you feel an affinity to a particular Dark Goddess and why?

  • The Astro Style Parlor: An Intro to Astrological Styling

    The Astro Style Parlor: An Intro to Astrological Styling

    Astrological Styling: Using Your Birth Chart to Reclaim Personal Style

    Caring about style is often dismissed as superficial—but the rising popularity of personal styling systems tells a different story. In truth, style can be a powerful tool for self-discovery, confidence, and control in a chaotic world. When we’re constantly bombarded by trends, opinions, and rules about how to look and act, having a strong personal style acts as an anchor. It brings us back to who we really are.

    One of the things I love most about astrology is how versatile it is. You can use your birth chart to explore career, relationships, emotional patterns—and yes, even your aesthetic and personal style. Thanks to creators like Gabrielle Arruda, the idea of a “style toolbox” is catching on, and astrology is a natural addition.

    Unfortunately, because astrological style is still a niche space, a lot of the content out there tends to be overly prescriptive. But astrology isn’t a fixed system—it’s interpretive. My goal is to offer something more fluid: a way to use your chart to inspire how you dress for different moods, seasons, and contexts. Let’s begin.

    Photo by Stephanie Klepacki on Unsplash

    Step One: Establishing Your Style Foundations

    To start your astrological style journey, begin with your rising sign, sun sign, and Venus sign. These three placements form a foundational triad for personal styling because they reflect your identity, presence, and aesthetic values.

    Your rising sign and any planets in the first house often show your physical appearance—your facial features, body type, and the first impression you give. The sun sign adds another layer, expressing core personality traits that might shape how you want to present yourself. Venus, on the other hand, rules beauty, taste, and attraction. The sign and house placement of Venus reveal your aesthetic preferences and how you like to relate to the world.

    When combining these three, you begin to uncover the essence of what feels authentic to wear. This goes beyond trends—this is about dressing for you.

    Step Two: Performing Style—Your Midheaven’s Role

    Next, consider your Midheaven (MC)—the sign at the top of your chart that represents your public persona, reputation, and long-term ambitions. It lives on the cusp of the 10th house, which governs visibility, career, and how you take up space in the world.

    This is a key placement when it comes to how you “perform” style in public contexts. Whether you’re stepping into a leadership role, attending an event, or curating a social media presence, your Midheaven can show you what kind of visual language feels empowering and strategic.

    Even if your 10th house is empty, the sign and ruling planet of the Midheaven give clues. Someone with a Cancer Sun might naturally be introverted or nurturing, but with an Aries MC and Mars-Venus conjunction, they may need to appear bold and assertive to feel fully aligned in public. Dressing for your MC is about claiming your space—not conforming, but projecting intentionally.

    Step Three: The Shadow of Style

    Let’s talk about the style shadow—the hidden parts of your expression that you repress, disown, or project onto others.

    Ever wanted to wear something bold, sensual, or unusual… and then talked yourself out of it? Or felt oddly irritated by someone else’s fashion choices, even if they weren’t harming anyone? That’s your style shadow calling. And astrology can reveal where that discomfort comes from.

    For example, if you have Lilith in Virgo, you might feel uncomfortable with polished or hyper-feminine looks, even though they secretly attract you. Or you may have internalized shame around being “too sexy” or “too plain,” and now hesitate to express yourself fully.

    Or someone with Scorpio rising might downplay their intensity due to past experiences of being oversexualized or judged. Reclaiming intentional astrological style can be healing—it’s about wearing what was once forbidden and celebrating what makes you powerful.

    Step Four: Empowered Dressing with Intentional Astrology

    Astrological styling doesn’t need to be rigid. In fact, its greatest power lies in contextual dressing—using your chart intentionally depending on your goals or mood.

    • For a romantic date? Dress through the lens of your Venus sign.
    • For a job interview or public speaking? Embody your rising and Midheaven.
    • For the gym or a big project? Tap into your Mars sign for motivation.
    • For healing or introspection? Look at your Moon or IC for a peak into your deepest self.

    Astrology offers a full map of archetypes within you—and every one of them has an aesthetic.

    Ready to Dive Deeper? Astrological Style Consults Coming Soon

    If you’re intrigued, step into Underworld Astrology’s Astro Style Parlor and be introduced to twelve astrological archetypes. Using these archetypes can help you tap into the most authentic parts of yourself, to show or hide as you desire.

    I’ll be sharing more resources and guides to help you fulfill your own astrological style desires, but if you’re looking for personalized insight or want a to see where your current style falls in the astrological lineup, stay tuned for my upcoming Style Parlor Private Fittings.

  • Cracks in the Mirror: Losing and Reclaiming Wholeness

    Cracks in the Mirror: Losing and Reclaiming Wholeness

    When did I stop being myself? Astrology and the fracturing of the essential self

    As babies, we all come into this life with a powerful desire to bond—to be truly seen and loved by our caregivers and the people around us. Each of us is born with a divine spark and a perfectly unique combination of traits meant to offer something essential to the world. When we are born into families with good enough caretakers, we grow up in a container where we feel safe, seen, and understood for who we are. Even in the face of external chaos, that inner security acts as a home base—a psychological anchor. But not everyone gets this kind of start.

    Due to emotional wounding, generational trauma, societal upheaval (like poverty, war, or systemic oppression), or life-altering experiences such as addiction, mental illness, grief, divorce, or caregiver burnout, many children grow up without that secure base. Even well-intentioned caregivers can pass down unconscious patterns they’ve been unable to break. And when a child senses—whether subtly or overtly—that their essential way of being is wrong, too much, or not welcome… something fractures.

    📷 Photo by Denny Müller on Unsplash

    The Birth Chart as a Map of Fracture and Wholeness

    As we begin to explore the birth chart through the lens of shadow work and inner child healing, we can see where this fracturing may have occurred. The chart becomes a symbolic map of both our essence—and the parts of it we’ve had to bury.

    Key placements that often reveal shadow material include:

    • The water houses (4th, 8th, 12th)
    • Personal planets like the Sun and Moon in aspect to Saturn or the outer planets (Uranus, Neptune, Pluto)
    • Chiron, Eris, or a strong Lilith signature
    • Charts with many hard aspects (squares, oppositions)
    • The IC (Imum Coeli) and Descendant—two hidden angles that often reveal ancestral and relational shadow themes

    For example:

    • A challenging planet on the IC, the cusp of the 4th house tied to family and roots, may suggest that the emotional “water” you swam in was turbulent.
    • On the Descendant, we may project parts of our shadow onto others—especially in close relationships. What we most crave, and what we most judge, may both be reflections of our disowned traits.

    Even seemingly “easy” charts (with lots of trines and sextiles) are not immune. Transits from outer planets will always stir what’s hidden.

    What Is the Shadow?

    First coined by Swiss psychologist Carl Jung, the shadow refers to the unconscious and repressed parts of the personality. These traits are often judged as negative, dangerous, or unlovable—by society, family, or our inner narrative.

    The ego develops as a mask we wear to adapt and survive. Over time, our shadow self—the inner child, the wild instinct, the unfiltered truth—is pushed further underground.

    Eventually, though, we must come back for it.

    Shadow integration is not about fixing ourselves—it’s about becoming whole. Whether through therapy, archetypal exploration, astrology, or somatic healing, the journey back to our shadow is the journey back to authenticity.

    Starting Your Shadow Work Journey

    If you’re just beginning your shadow work journey, go gently. Be patient. Bringing repressed material to the surface can feel overwhelming or even retraumatizing. You’re revisiting parts of yourself your psyche buried for good reason.

    But here’s the truth: you’re not who you were then. You’re stronger now. More capable. And so brave to take this step.

    While astrology and archetypal systems are potent tools for deep healing, I strongly encourage partnering with a licensed mental health professional—especially if you’re working through trauma.

    Through this blog, we’ll explore these shadow pieces together. We’ll examine the intersections of:

    • Ancestral astrology and generational patterns
    • Dark goddess archetypes as portals of feminine power
    • The Hero’s Journey through the lens of the birth chart
    • And ways to ritualize your return to wholeness

    Start Here: Shadow Work Journal Prompt

    Begin your process with this powerful question:
    “When did I stop being myself?”

    Write whatever comes up. This is for you and you alone.

  • The Role of the Persona in Astrology

    The Role of the Persona in Astrology

    Understanding the Persona in Astrology: Aligning Your Rising Sign, Midheaven, and Core Self

    Whenever I’m unsure where to focus my energy, I return to that quote by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin: “We are spiritual beings having a human experience.” To me, the heart of that message lies in the phrase “spiritual beings.” Yet, in our everyday lives, it’s not always safe—or even possible—to show up completely unguarded, exposing our truest selves.

    Different environments, people, and life experiences naturally bring out different facets of who we are. Cultural expectations, family conditioning, religious frameworks, and societal norms all shape how we present ourselves. That’s why, in both large and small social settings, having a form of emotional and psychological protection becomes necessary.

    Enter the persona.

    Photo by Daniel Zacatenco on Unsplash

    In the context of astrology, particularly when reading a birth chart, I like to use Collins Dictionary’s definition: “A persona is the aspect of their character or nature that they reveal to other people, sometimes in contrast to their real nature.” A well-developed and healthy persona helps us navigate the external world without feeling disconnected from our core spiritual or emotional self.

    Let’s clear up a common misconception: your Ascendant (or rising sign) is not simply a “mask” you wear over your Sun sign—the so-called “real you.” The entire birth chart is you. Your rising sign is an integral and individualized part of your identity. Unlike a mask that you can remove, your rising sign is something you’re born with—etched into the sky at the exact moment and location of your first breath.

    The rising sign represents the zodiac sign that was on the eastern horizon when you were born. It changes every 1-2 hours, which is why two people born on the same day can have vastly different personalities and life experiences. It also establishes the framework of your entire birth chart by aligning the house placements.

    Then there’s the Midheaven (MC)—the angular point at the top of your birth chart, also known as the 10th house cusp. This point represents your public persona, reputation, and career aspirations. It reflects how you’re seen by the world at large, especially in professional or public settings. Any planets near or conjunct the Midheaven are especially important, as they influence how you’re perceived and how you express your life’s work.

    If your birth chart has many planets in the 1st house (rising sign) or 10th house (Midheaven), you likely have a commanding presence that others easily notice.

    How Your Persona Can Support Your Sun Sign Goals

    Let’s look at an example to explore how the persona supports the soul’s mission:

    Imagine a chart where the rising sign is Virgo and the Midheaven is Gemini. Both are ruled by Mercury, a planet known for its bright intellect and curiosity. This person likely has a quick mind and a gift for communication. They might be socially versatile, always seeking information and connection.

    In this chart, Mercury is in Scorpio in the 3rd house, alongside the Moon and Venus. This placement adds emotional depth and intuitive awareness, making her not only a skilled conversationalist but also someone who picks up on unspoken cues. Scorpio placements often attract shadow work—others may project unconscious fears or desires onto them.

    By developing her Virgo rising, she can approach the world with thoughtful care, a desire to be of service, and an analytical mindset. Time spent in nature, around children, or engaging in creative, detail-oriented tasks can ground her energy. Although Neptune opposes her ascendant—creating potential for over-giving in relationships—she can harness that same energy for intuition, creativity, and imaginative expression, especially in art or craftsmanship.

    Her Gemini Midheaven supports a public image of wit, charm, and adaptability. She may thrive in careers involving communication, writing, research, or media. Gemini’s light-hearted curiosity balances Scorpio’s intensity, creating a well-rounded public persona that doesn’t overshadow her inner drive.

    Now, let’s bring it back to her Sun in Scorpio in the 2nd house—the core identity that seeks deep understanding, emotional security, and mastery over personal resources. Scorpio’s connection to the underworld, transformation, and inner truth pairs beautifully with Mercury’s ability to translate surface-level data into meaningful insights. In mythology, Mercury (Hermes) was the only god who could travel freely between the upper and lower worlds—just like this Scorpio Sun can navigate both surface-level conversations and deeper emotional truths.

    Building Your Astrological Persona: Practical Tips

    To explore your own astrological persona, start by identifying:

    • Your Rising Sign (Ascendant): How you naturally present yourself and interact with the world.
    • Your Midheaven (MC): How you’re perceived publicly and your legacy or career aspirations.
    • Any conjunct planets near these points: These add flavor, emphasis, and nuance.

    Some astrologers believe the Sun represents your inner goal, the Ascendant is the vehicle you use to get there, and the Midheaven reflects your public legacy. When these three align and support each other, your outer life becomes a powerful expression of your inner values.

    Reflection Questions

    In what ways can your external persona better support your core self and soul’s mission?

    How would you describe your own persona?

    How does that align—or contrast—with your rising sign and Midheaven?

  • What Astrology Can Say About Your Essence

    What Astrology Can Say About Your Essence

    Astrological Essence: How Your Birth Chart Reveals Your Core Energy

    One of my favorite things about astrology is how a single birth chart can reveal so much more than just personality traits. While many people use astrology to understand themselves better, your natal chart also holds the keys to shadow work, family karma, and your essential needs. But one of the most intriguing ways astrology can be used is to help define your unique energetic essence.

    Photo by Diego PH on Unsplash

    The first time I encountered the word essence was in the world of style systems. Over the last decade, there has been a resurgence of online style analysis, with various systems claiming to help you dress as your most authentic self. Some focus on body shape, others on facial features, and a few take a holistic approach, blending physical traits, mannerisms, and personality into a complete style profile.

    But this led me to a bigger question: what is essence, really?

    By definition, essence is the fundamental nature or core of someone or something. And in astrology, we can uncover this essence by analyzing key placements in the birth chart.

    Your astrological essence is a fusion of your Sun sign, Ascendant (rising sign), any planets conjunct the Ascendant, and your chart ruler (the planetary ruler of your rising sign). These elements together form the core expression of your energy—the most distilled version of your identity.

    Let’s break it down with an example.

    Example Birth Chart:

    The Sun: The core self-expression.
    The Ascendant: The first impression, the persona, and approach to life.
    The Chart Ruler: The ruling planet of the Ascendant, adding further nuance.

    Step 1: Identify the Sun Sign

    In this chart, circled in red, the Sun is in Capricorn. This means their core identity is:

    • Grounded, ambitious, and leadership-oriented
    • Resilient, disciplined, and action-driven
    • Naturally inclined toward structure, success, and long-term goals

    Capricorn is ruled by Saturn, which gives them high personal standards, but also a tendency to be overly critical of themselves and others.

    Their Sun is in the 7th house, meaning relationships play a huge role in their self-understanding. They will often see themselves most clearly through their interactions with others, making close partnerships essential for their growth.

    Step 2: Identify the Ascendant

    Starred in brown, this chart’s Ascendant is in Cancer, meaning they:

    • Leads with emotional intelligence and intuition
    • Is deeply receptive to the energy of those around him
    • Is nurturing, protective, and values close connections

    The Ascendant ruler is the Moon, which leads us to the next step.

    Step 3: Find the Chart Ruler’s Placement

    The Moon is in Taurus, in the 11th house. This means their emotional foundation is:

    • Steady, grounded, and deeply loyal
    • Tied to community, friendships, and collective goals
    • Influenced by tradition but adaptable to change

    Sample Astrological Essence Summary

    At their core, this person is a people-oriented leader who values tradition, family, and deep emotional bonds. They are naturally steady and nurturing, but also forward-thinking, able to blend tradition with innovation. Their leadership comes from emotional awareness and a deep connection to their community.

    Find Your Astrological Essence

    Want to discover your own astrological essence? Follow these steps:

    1. Identify your Sun sign (core identity)
    2. Identify your Ascendant (Rising) sign (outward persona)
    3. Find your Chart Ruler (ruling planet of the Ascendant)
    4. Consider any planets conjunct the Ascendant, as they will color its expression

    Here’s a quick reference for Chart Rulers:

    • Aries Rising → Mars
    • Taurus Rising → Venus
    • Gemini Rising → Mercury
    • Cancer Rising → Moon
    • Leo Rising → Sun
    • Virgo Rising → Mercury
    • Libra Rising → Venus
    • Scorpio Rising → Mars & Pluto
    • Sagittarius Rising → Jupiter
    • Capricorn Rising → Saturn
    • Aquarius Rising → Saturn & Uranus
    • Pisces Rising → Jupiter & Neptune

    Bonus: Planets Conjunct the Ascendant

    If a planet sits closely to your Ascendant, it will significantly influence how you express yourself:

    • Saturn → Reserved, serious, structured
    • Jupiter → Expansive, optimistic, larger-than-life
    • Venus → Charming, artistic, magnetic
    • Mars → Dynamic, assertive, action-oriented
    • Neptune → Mystical, dreamy, hard to pin down

    What’s Your Astrological Essence?

    Now that you have the tools, what does your astrological essence reveal about you? Share in the comments below!

  • Reclaiming the Essential Self

    Reclaiming the Essential Self

    Understanding Essence, Personality, and Persona: How Astrology Illuminates Your True Self

    When we are born, we come into the world with inborn traits, qualities, and an essence that makes us uniquely ourselves. If you spend any time around babies, you can observe these traits early on. Some babies are naturally fussy, joyful, or pensive. Some are extroverted from the start, while others are more introverted, hesitant to engage until they feel comfortable. A healthy caregiver takes note of these traits, often recognizing the differences between babies and supporting each child’s essential self. Of course, no child’s needs can be fully met all the time, and no caregiver is expected to give 100% of themselves constantly. As we grow and learn to live in society, we must adopt a persona and develop an independent personality. This process is a natural and essential part of life for each of us.

    Photo by Cristian Palmer on Unsplash

    According to Merriam-Webster, essence is “the most significant element, quality, or aspect of a thing or person.” For some, defining their essence is easy, while for others—especially those who grew up in circumstances that didn’t nurture their true self—it may be harder to pinpoint.

    In astrology, essence is often revealed through a combination of factors. In my practice, I find that you can uncover core qualities of your essential self by looking at the placement of your sun, ascendant, rising planets, and ruling planet. Steven Forrest explains that the ascendant represents “the way we dawn on others.” As the most individual point in the chart, the ascendant is the sign rising on the eastern horizon at the moment of your first breath. The ascendant sign shifts every couple of hours, while the sun sign changes about once a month. The ascendant and rising planets—like Gemini rising conjunct Mars or the Moon—help describe how you “dawn” on others and adapt to your environment. The sun, though, is more enduring. For example, someone with a Taurus Sun in the 5th house will express themselves differently from someone with a Taurus Sun in the 10th or 2nd house. Additionally, the aspects to the Sun will influence how it’s expressed. Astrology is a complex system, and while your life may unfold in various ways, these astrological indicators can offer insight into your essential self.

    The American Medical Association defines personality as “the enduring characteristics and behaviors that comprise a person’s unique adjustment to life, including major traits, interests, drives, values, self-concept, abilities, and emotional patterns.” Astrology is an invaluable tool for understanding personality because one chart can provide many insights. While an astrological chart won’t definitively tell you someone’s precise personality, it can offer clues.

    Even people with similar charts may behave differently due to life circumstances and free will. For instance, a person with a strong Gemini emphasis may express themselves as curious, outgoing, and engaged, while another might be introverted, less social, and more mercurial (moody). To understand someone’s personality in astrology, I recommend examining the individual planets—the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Jupiter. The way these planets interact with their signs, houses, and aspects to one another and the outer planets reveals much about a person’s personality.

    While personality encompasses the inner world, the persona represents the outward traits and qualities we show to the world. We all need a persona (or several) to protect ourselves in the outside world. When aligned with your personality and essence, the persona can act as a servant to your true self. In other words, by understanding your core essence and personality, you can create a persona that feels authentic without leaving you vulnerable. Some people’s personas closely align with their personality, while others’ personas are quite different. For example, someone who seems reserved at first may later reveal themselves to be extroverted, or vice versa.

    Astrologically, a well-developed persona combines the strengths of your rising sign and midheaven (the cusp of the 10th house). By developing these two areas, you can create a healthy, protective persona that helps you achieve goals important to both your personality and your essential self.

    It’s important to note that no aspect of your essence, personality, or persona is more important or authentic than the others. Ideally, we grow up in environments that nurture our essence, allowing us to develop personalities and personas that aren’t clouded by self-hatred, shame, or guilt. Unfortunately, life often presents challenges that hinder our full expression. Healing comes from embracing our wholeness—not seeing ourselves as broken, but as multifaceted and complete.

    Through my work, I help guide individuals in reconnecting with their essence. I believe that a combination of family astrology, shadow work, and essence work is essential for healing and transformation. The journey of a lifetime is to embrace and honor the qualities bestowed by your Sun sign. When we step away from who we’ve been told we are, the person we were always meant to be can finally emerge.