The Rising Sign: What kind of frosting are you?

The Rising sign, also known as the Ascendant is the icing on top of our astro cake. It can be found sitting on the cusp of the first house in the birth chart. At it's most basic function the rising sign is the first impression we give. Have you ever heard someone say, "You are so funny, you seemed so serious when I met you" or "You're so quiet, that night we met you were super chatty." These are perfect examples of how the rising sign works. It's who we are to the world, the faces and roles we play or the way associates and strangers see us.  The rising sign isn't all superficial though, it can be a wonderful tool to use in conjunction with your sun sign.

A great spiritual description of the rising sign is found in the book Cosmic Navigator by Gahl Eden Sasson. He says that the rising sign represents the road you chose to reach your Sun signs destiny. For example, if you're an Aries one of your major life lessons is dealing with leadership. If you're an Aries with Capricorn rising you can successfully use your leadership skills in environments where you work hard for results, or climb the ladder so to speak. If you're an Aries with Pisces rising you can use your leadership skills in a mystical or out of the box way like creating a new form of healing, or being the voice of a spiritual/ healing movement. In social environments the Aries with Capricorn rising may seem less impulsive and fiery than an typical Aries. This Aries Cap rising may also prefer to be the coach of a sports team vs a team player. The Aries with Pisces rising would channel their Aries Ram energy by practicing Bikram Yoga or dancing the Samba instead of playing football or running track. The Aries intensity and need for action and movement would be channeled through a healing/creative outlet versus an action oriented quick fix or sport. 

Below is a fun and simple introduction to the traits of the 12 rising signs, good and bad. There is so much more information about each one, more than I can fit here, but this will get you started. 

The 12 types of icing and what they mean

Aries Rising:

You are independent, strong willed and a natural born leader. You have no problem going after what you want and are seen as the brave one by others. You can be stubborn, selfish and impatient. Your natural competitiveness and energy to burn must be channeled because you can become quite restless. Use this energy in your work, physical activity and achieving your goals. 

Taurus Rising:

You are steadfast, grounded, focused and love all things of beauty. You are intuitive, patient and have stamina to burn. Values are beyond important to you and you like to do things one way, your way! Comfort is one of your favorite words and because of that you must watch for overindulgence like a solar Taurus. Use your great gifts and intuitive mind to conquer your goals. 

Gemini Rising:

Your world is ruled by intellect and communication. You are the queen/king of words and do well in anything dealing with critical thinking and communicating ideas. The most natural profession for you includes trading information and you are always on the look out for meeting new people and opportunities to network. You are a natural chameleon and can seem like two people to others and even yourself. You can be jumpy, opinionated, gossipy and restless. Use your great mental energy and natural charm with the public to conquer the world.  

Cancer Rising:

Talk about doing everything with feeling! You are nurturing, giving, sensitive and security driven. You have intensely strong paternal and healing instincts. You can be overprotective, withdrawn and too attached to the past like a solar Cancer. Stay away from the wounded souls you seem to attract, it's not your job to fix them. Turn that need to nurture to yourself and use your ability to see beneath the surface to fully step into your power and become the best version of yourself. 

Leo Rising:

Hear me rawr! Leo risings are as obvious as a solar Leos, whether or not they are trying to hide it is the real issue. They are confident (or they SEEM that way and are working really hard on being confident), extroverted (outwardly or can be as quiet as a mouse with raging red hair and bracelets up to their elbows), spontaneous, and impulsive. They can be a special kind of stubborn, antsy, quick tempered and dramatic. They love deeply, attract attention (whether they want it or not) and have many interests. Their road is an interesting one, once they are doing what their hearts want they live happy and pleasant lives.   

Virgo Rising:

Virgo is that person you know who gets EVERYTHING done! They have quick minds, knowledge to share and the neatest planner ever. You love them, even if it's kind of annoying they make you use coasters every time you come over. They are methodical, practical , quiet and sometimes shy. On their worst days they can be picky, nervous, opinionated and anxious. Learning to let their hair down and lighten up makes a world of difference for Virgo rising and makes the world a more enjoyable place for them.

Libra Rising:

Looking good, I love your style! What a beautiful apartment! Oh you made that? All comments Libra rising is sure to be familiar with. They are creative, talented, serious DIY-ers, and social butterflies. They are more fixed than they seem and can be rigid, competitive, shrewd, unbalanced and people pleasers. At their best they are like an aromatic blossoming flower, beautiful inside and out and everyone wants to be around to see whats next. 

Scorpio rising:

Oh the magnetism of Scorpio rising. They are like that beautiful maybe antique... can't really tell, glass bowl that you really really want to touch but feel like you can't. They radiate an energy that either attracts like moths to a flame, intimidates or just leaves people down right confused. Shrouded in mystery, even if they are the calmest, most grounded person ever is the clutch of Scorpio rising. Used positively they can come to terms with the power they radiate and become amazing, deep and well rounded people or use it to keep others away like a "danger beware of dog" sign.

Sagittarius Rising:

Extroverted, outgoing, loads of fun, energetic and...I know I said it already but man are they fun! Sagittarius risings are freedom loving, adventure seeking life enthusiasts just like solar Sag. Having an outdoors adventure? Want to go out dancing? Bring a Sagittarius rising with you. On their worst days they can be restless, scattered and emotionally cold. And just like solar Sagittarius need to watch out for their words, they can really hurt someones feelings  They love to talk, attract people like flies and make it their mission to enjoy life no matter what. 

Capricorn Rising:

I don't know how she does it! Bachelors degree straight into a Masters and she works full time! Capricorn rising is ambitious, determined, quick minded, practical and reserved just like solar Capricorns. Depending on rest of chart these traits can be weakened and the Capricorn rising may have to work harder to embody them. They have high standards and may often set goals so high that they are forced to reexamine themselves and their goals. They are dependable, honest and stick to their values. On the unpleasant side they can be negative nancies, stressed out and suffer from anxiety attacks. The best way to harness their energy is to set realistic standards, goals and expectations of themselves and others. 

Aquarius Rising:

Everyone knows him, everywhere we go he knows someone!  Aquarius rising, like solar Aquarians don't need to do a thing to attract fans, they just come. Maybe it's the gleam in their eyes, the way they smile, how personable and friendly they are or if we want to be honest about it...that aloofness and air of unavailability is pretty damn sexy. Or irritating  depending on who you are talking too. Aquarius rising is fun, light hearted, intellectual and need stimulation. They have active minds, active imaginations and a never ending to do list. On a bad day they are detached, cold or just down right mean. 

Pisces Rising:

Just like solar Pisces these ascendant love all things metaphysical and other-worldly. That girl with the glitter in her hair, that guy who writes fantasy fiction about his favorite show, that person you know who even in a deep conversation seems to be somewhere else...all Pisces risings. Dreamers, lovers, artist...I JUST WANT TO DO WHAT I LOVE AND NOTHING ELSE. Like their solar Pisces cousins these ascendant on a bad day suffer deep depressions, disappointments and general disillusionment with the world around them. Keeping the faith, and doing what they love creates a happy existence. 

The Sun Signs Part II : The 12 signs and what they have to say for themselves!

Before we dive in a note about the Sun signs:

As we learn more about the birth chart you will come to see and understand that everyone has the 12 signs somewhere in their chart. On top of that our planets are generally scattered into a few signs, not just our own. So that being said, if you don't vibe with your Sun sign don't let that get you down or discourage you from learning more. You may come to find that you have such powerful influence from one or two other signs that they drown out your sun to an extend. As you read on just remember, as mentioned earlier, the sun sign is like the club we belong it. It's basic overall view. Some my deeply or over identify with it, and others rarely or only in very specific circumstances. 

Aries 

Aries are natural leaders with a “what you see is what you get” attitude. They like to be number one, need physical activity and do well in extreme sports and competitions. They can also be aggressive, stubborn and restless. Associated with the Ram, Aries can be quite quick tempered and unless they plan on having a career in professional fighting or sports, should learn positive outlets for their bursts of anger. They are impulsive and this can lead to difficulties and/or accidents because they don't look before they leap. Aries Sun signs are optimistic, quick-witted, brave, take charge people! (Aries is Cardinal Fire sign)

Taurus

Taurus Sun signs are stable and reliable people with strong values. They may seem to move at a slower pace than others, but it's because they like to take their time and do things at their own speed. They appreciate the beautiful things in life and are not afraid of hard work. Well known for their stubbornness, they can have rigid views and be quite argumentative. Trying to get an apology out of a Taurus can be like pulling teeth! With a love of comfort they must watch for laziness, addictions, and overindulgence. Taurus Suns are loyal and loving people who make great friends and partners. (Taurus is a Fixed Earth sign)

Gemini

The sign of the twins, Gemini may seem and feel like two people in one. With split minds, interests and needs. They are communication oriented, active, affectionate and generous people. But can also be complex, contradictory and restless. They have a need for change and can hop from one thing to another because of it. Ever date a person who seemed really into you on Monday and disinterested on Tuesday? Was probably a Gemini! These playful intellectuals love mental challenges, and do well in anything from debate to technology. Their minds seem to move at the speed of light with their bodies struggling to keep up. Gemini Suns are multi-talented, determined, popular and stimulating people. (Gemini is a Mutable Air sign)

Cancer

Cancer Sun signs are highly intuitive, protective and emotional beings. They are family oriented, love their privacy, and have a strong need for comfort and security. You know that friend who makes you feel like the most important, and most understood person in the world? She's probably a Cancer! They experience the world so intensely that need time to hide from the world around them to recharge their batteries. Because of this hermit like nature they can get lost in their own minds, dwell in the past, and suffer from melancholy. Cancers tend to jump into their shell at the slightest sign of trouble, because of this life could be passing them by while they are too busy protecting themselves. Cancers are strong, creative, dedicated, romantic and loyal people. (Cancer is a Cardinal Water sign)

Leo

Leo Sun signs are strong-willed, loyal and independent people. The natural actors of the zodiac they love to be the center of attention. Motivated and determined, they are extremely sensitive to criticism, and are slow to forgive when hurt. They can be stubborn and temperamental beings, and without direction can be arrogant or overly demanding. Leo Suns can also be conceited and self absorbed, worst case scenario doing anything possible to remain in the limelight. This of course causes many problems for them from addictions, bad life choices and negative affects on their social life. That vibrant multi-talented soul in the room that everyone is pulled to is most likely a Leo! Leo Suns dream big, demand respect and love to live full and fruitful lives. (Leo is a Fixed Fire sign)

Virgo

Virgo Sun signs seek perfection in everything! They are very charming, fastidious, intellectual and methodical people. Because of a need to compartmentalize everything in their life, it's important for them to practice balancing the mind and body. They have a tendency to micromanage and be over-critical of others. This is because they suppress their emotions to exercise self control. If they are not careful they can become hypochondriacs, worry wort's and Nagging Nancie's. They can't control everything, and it's a hard lesson for them to learn. If they are true to themselves and open with others they can overcome the cold impression they give off. They are smart, hardworking and dedicated people who need to take time to relax and enjoy the world around them. A Virgo who knows how to let her hair down is fun and intellectually stimulating company! (Virgo is a Mutable Earth sign) 

Libra

Libra Suns work their whole lives for the achievement of balance and harmony. They are social and popular people with good taste and an eye for beauty. The desire for peace is so strong for them that they often compromise their personalities to keep things peaceful around them. Libra Suns can be flighty, shallow, indecisive and "people pleasures".  This can make them seem untrustworthy or manipulative in certain situations because they will play both sides of the fence to please the other parties. For example if caught in the middle of a fight, Libra might side with both friends. Despite Libra's good intentions this may cause more harm than good. These sensitive and understanding people are often artistically gifted with a strong dislike of conflict and drama. A balanced Libra is lovely and inspiring being. (Libra is a Cardinal Air sign)

Scorpio

Oh Scorpios!I have a soft spot for them, and with a stellium in Scorpio in my own chart I feel the need to represent them in a better light. We've all heard the words “intense, vengeful  private and calculating” in regards to this sign. Since their negative traits have been beaten to death let’s talk about the good stuff. Did you know that they are as sensitive as you can get? They are strong willed, self-reliant people with a special something that either attracts, intimidates or repels others. They have deep imaginations, great analytic skills and strong powers of reason. Are you into the occult? Healing work? Anything metaphysical? Get a Scorpio friend with the same interest and watch the magic happen! Moderation in anything is hard for these passionate souls, but once they learn self control they can get more out of life than they did by having their cake and eating it too. (Scorpio is a Fixed Water sign)

Sagittarius

Sagittarius Sun Signs are big hearted, optimistic, adventurous and independent people. They are passionate about justice, insistent on freedom and love travel. They see life as an adventure and because of that attract others easily, making them quite popular. They even seem to collect friends! They can be restless, inconsiderate, afraid of commitment, and brutally honest. When angry they are known to hurt others with their words because they have a habit of speaking first and thinking later. They can also shoot off at the mouth, and shout over the other person instead of listening. Or scrutinize someone for doing something that they themselves did a week earlier. They must practice caution with their risk taking natures to avoid getting into dangerous situations. Sagittarius Suns are fun, idealistic, lively and active people. I am lucky to know a few of them and I'm always excited to be in their company. (Sagittarius is a Mutable Fire sign) 

Capricorn

Capricorn Sun signs are practical, self-confident, hardworking and determined people. They often see things through to the end and have no problem rolling up their sleeves to get the job done. Caps are resourceful and disciplined people who seem aloof or rigid to others. They have a tendency to take themselves too seriously, can be overly cautious, pessimistic and become workaholics.  Ever date someone who was too busy for you and spent all their time at work? Familiar with the story of the pros porous husband who worked all the time and only after his divorce realized he should have given his marriage more attention? Have a friend who is such a penny pincher but is NEVER behind on bills and actually has a savings account? Maybe these people were Caps! I have some wonderful Capricorns in my life, and all they need to add to their tool kit of success is some laughs, some good friends and a weekly spa day. They are clear headed, determined, rational people with great memories. (Capricorn is a Cardinal Earth sign)

Aquarius

Aquarius Sun Signs are free-spirited, innovative and eccentric. These intellectual outsiders are gifted with an analytical mind and often seem strange or just plain hard to read to others. They can be high stressed, worrisome, detached, afraid of commitment and cold. When they shut down it is near impossible to get them to open up. And trying to figure out what they are thinking is almost an impossible task. Aquarians like to share their knowledge, but they run the risk of coming off as "know it alls" at times. They are more comfortable in the world of ideas and must learn to live in reality and connect to others emotionally. Aquarius Suns are outgoing, charming, smart and funny people with more than 2 cents to offer to any conversation. Need help with a creative project? Want to go out for some laughs and a good time? Need a friend to do that thing with you  that all your other friends are too chicken to do? Call up an Aquarius! (Aquarius is a Fixed Air sign)

Pisces 

As a Pisces one of my pet peeves is the way MANY sources start a Pisces description. We are unique, multi layered beings and sadly get simplified under “emotional and easily hurt”. So as a Pisces I will defend my army! Pisces Suns signs are spiritual, compassionate and loving people. They are often misread or misunderstood. Did you know that Pisces is a combination of all the signs before it? Does that weird Pisces at your job make more sense now?

With strong intuition, deep emotions and instincts they tend to stay to themselves and observe the world around them before participating in it. Besides Gemini, Pisces is the only other double sign with two versions of themselves. One side is involved in reality, the other in the realms beyond. Because of this Pisces are in danger of feeling lost, confused and being “spaced out”. They can also fall into escapism to avoid dealing with reality, therefore making addictions a possibility. Their physical world is closely tied to their emotional, so their inner antenna can dictate the way they live their lives. This can make Pisces seem unreliable, dramatic and easily distracted. If Pisces is not careful, and doesn't stay grounded they do become these things! The goal is to unite the two energies to exist happily on the road between reality and dreams. Pisces are creative, psychic, loving and loyal beings with a flare for the metaphysical and the things we cannot see. (Pisces is a Mutable Water sign)

Up next.....The Rising Signs!

Sun Signs! Part I

What is a Sun sign? The Sun signs are the basis for the horoscope, it's the "club" we belong to based on our birthday. The dates get tricky if you were born on the cusp of a sign. For example, if you were born April 20th, you could be an Aries or a Taurus according to what book, website or source you use. The best way to fix this is to look up your chart, or get it done by someone. That way you know exactly where the sun was the year you were born, therefore knowing your real sun sign. We will discuss cusp birthdays further at another time.

Now back to this club business. If you were born on March 3rd, you are a member of the Pisces club. Does it mean you are just like everyone in your club? No, but you share some basic similarities and core values that make you part of that group. The Sun sign describes our basic personality traits that remain constant throughout life. It represents our innermost, truest self. There are also three subcategories the signs are divided into. One is called the elements (The four elements are air, fire, water and earth.), the other modalities (cardinal, fixed, mutable). 

The 12 signs and their Element

Fire Signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius)
Fire astrology signs can sure heat up a room! They are passionate, quick to action, temperamental and adventurous. The key to this element is management. If their fire is not used properly they can burn everything in their path, then burn themselves out! They can be great leaders and self starters. They just have to remember to look before they leap! 

Water Signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces)

Water signs can be a cool drink on a summer day, or like diving into the mysterious depths of the ocean. Think about it, contained water is easy to deal with, but water that is un-contained can cause damage or drown its surroundings. Water signs are tuned into the emotional and psychic currents of life. Because they are so in-tune they have to remember not to allow themselves to be swept away with the currents! 

Earth Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn)

Earth is the foundation on which everything is built. Earth astrology signs are grounded, stable and dependable. No space cadets or head in clouds types here. They dislike change more than the average person, and are steady and patient. They do have to watch for tendencies toward  possessiveness, worrying and materialism. 

Air Signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius)

Air signs love freedom! Don't fence me in and Let me spread my wings are great expressions for them. They are innovative, intellectual types that possess a natural knack for communicating. But they can live too much in their own heads, and must watch out for being emotionally detached, judgmental, and scattered. 

The 12 signs and their Modalities 

Cardinal (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn) - Active, ambitious, dynamic, direct, impulsive, impatient

Fixed (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius) - Stable, persistent, organized, courageous, stubborn, bossy 

Mutable (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces) - Adaptable, flexible, tolerant, changeable, cynical, tactless

Up next: Part II - The 12 signs and what they have to say for themselves!