AQUARIUS ZODIAC SIGN: ALL ABOUT CHARACTERISTICS, DATES, & MORE

Aquarius Traits & Overview

• AQUARIUS DATES: Jan 21 – Feb 18
• SYMBOL: The Water-Bearer
• MODE + ELEMENT: Fixed Air
• RULING PLANET: Saturn & Uranus
• HOUSE: Eleventh
• MANTRA: I Know
• BODY PART: The Shins
• COLORS: Silver & Blue
• TAROT CARD: The Star

The eleventh sign of the zodiac is Aquarius, and people born under this sign are the best possible ambassadors for the era known as the Age of Aquarius. Those of you who were born under this sign of the zodiac have the kind of social consciousness that will help usher in the new millennium. Those who were born under the zodiac sign of Aquarius are known for their altruism, philanthropy, and intense interest in bettering the world. Along these same lines, they have the goal of making the world a better place to live, which is why they concentrate a large portion of their efforts on our social institutions and how they work (or don't work).

Aquarians are forward-thinking, progressive souls who enjoy devoting their time to contemplating ways in which the world could be improved. They are also quick to involve other people in the process, which is one of the reasons why they have such a large number of friends and acquaintances. For Aquarians, the process of making the world a better place is one that requires teamwork.

Aquarius Symbolism + Myth

One of the most ancient of the constellations that make up our modern zodiac is Aquarius, also known as the Water Bearer. Aquarius was a protective god in Babylonian mythology, and he was depicted as carrying an overflowing vase of water. This association with the constellation Aquarius dates back to ancient times.

The ancient Egyptians believed that the Water-Bearer caused the Nile to overflow its banks when he emptied his pitcher into the world's greatest river. As a result, they connected Aquarius with this event. After a massive amount of water was deposited in the area, springtime was a particularly fertile time for plant growth, which coincided with the Nile's rising level at the time.

According to Greek mythology, the constellation Aquarius was associated with the legendary youth Ganymede. Ganymede was the son of Tros, the king of Troy. Ganymede became famous after Zeus brought him to Mount Olympus to serve as the gods' cupbearer. Ganymede was known for his skill in carrying cups.

Aquarius Element, Mode, and Season

Winter

The 21st of January marks the beginning of the Aquarius season in the western tropical zodiac, which also marks the beginning of the middle and heart of winter in the Northern Hemisphere. At this point in the year, the sun, which is Leo's ruling planet, is at its weakest in terms of its ability to generate heat and light. This may lend qualities of coolness and distance to the Aquarian archetype, which, during the colder, more solitary months of the year, has a tendency to be more reflective and inventive.

Fixed Mode

The sign of Aquarius is the final of the zodiac's four fixed signs, all of which share a fundamental energy that is characterized by endurance and steadiness during the midst of each of the year's four seasons. The sign of Aquarius begins in the middle of winter, which is when the season is at its most "fixed" and established. This lends to the tenacious, immovable, and somewhat stubborn tendencies of the formidable Aquarian intellect.

Air Element

Ancient astrologers considered air to be an expression of matter because they believed it to symbolize formlessness and dissolution. Air is a light, dispersive element that is associated with the sign of Aquarius. The innovative, inventive, and intellectually focused nature of Aquarius is analogous to the dynamic, ever-changing nature of the element air.

Aquarius Planetary Rulership

Domicile of Saturn

Saturn was considered to be the ruler of both Aquarius and Capricorn in the traditional school of astrology. It was previously believed that Saturn's diurnal or day home was the sign of Aquarius. Aquarius is an intellectual air sign, which provides Saturn with the opportunity to be as scrutinizing, discerning, and objective of a planetary force when it is placed there.

Those who are born with Saturn in Aquarius have the potential to have enormous powers of intellectual discipline, which they can use to their advantage in the fields of study, administration, or in taking on roles of authority in social and judicial settings. Those who are born with the stern teacher as their diurnal domicile may have an easier time adopting the Saturinan virtues of objectivity, perseverance, and patience than others.

Detriment of the sun

Leo, a fixed fire sign, and Aquarius, a variable air sign, form a polar opposition. Leo, which is traditionally ruled by Saturn, enjoys testing, judging, and establishing boundaries, whereas Aquarius, which is ruled by the sun, enjoys radiating, conquering, and performing. It is said that the sun is in a state of detriment or some kind of disadvantage when it is in the sign of Aquarius, which is characterized as being cool and remote, when it is in the sign opposite of his preferred home. Imagine the sun, the brightest symbol of self-expression and self-assurance, tempered and contained in the world by the constraints of time, tests, and training.

When the sun could more easily shine in a world of drama, pride, and passion, Aquarius tends to be focused on rationality and objectivity, qualities that are developed with wisdom, restraint, and eldership. When the sun does shine, it may be easier for Aquarius to shine. This proud and vital star would have to make do in Aquarius and compensate, presenting those born with the sun in the sign of the Water Bearer as having a more detached and somewhat aloof presence than usual. They might direct their vigor and focus toward activities that are more intellectual in nature, and despite the fact that they might be original and inventive, they might not be interested in leading a performative life in the traditional sense.

Modern Ruler: Uranus

William Herschel, an amateur astronomer who constructed his own telescope, was the one who made the discovery of Uranus in 1781. This trait of inventiveness and discovery in Uranus's founder lends itself to the Aquarian characteristics of innovation, adaptability, and unconventionality.

It is also interesting to note that during the time of Uranus' discovery, the American Revolution was being fought, and the French Revolution would follow in the years to come. Both of these historical events took place in the same time period. These coincidental events prompted modern astrologers to ascribe revolutionary qualities to the planet Uranus, given that its appearance coincided with a period of significant social and political change. Uranus was given the role of the eccentric sub-ruler to Aquarius, who was considered to be the objective Water Bearer, because the early modern astrologers felt that the history of Uranus' discovery was similar to the nature of Aquarius.

Aquarius House Rulership

The eleventh house

Each of the twelve houses in a birth chart is assigned to a different zodiac sign according to the modern astrological system based on the Twelve Letter Alphabet. Psychological astrologers were the ones who came up with this novel concept in order to match sign affinities to related house topics.

Since Aquarius' social and intellectual pursuits are aligned with the concerns of this house, the eleventh house of friends, alliances, and gifts was given to Aquarius as their natal chart placement. As a result of Uranus being designated as a contemporary sub-ruler for Aquarius, the eleventh house is open to receiving an unconventional Uranian sub-signature.

The twelfth house

Saturn, the planet that rules Aquarius, was thought to find its "joy" in the twelfth house of the birth chart, which represents solitude, confinement, and isolation. This was the case according to classical astrology. Classical astrologers also referred to the twelfth house as the house of "bad spirit," which meant that it was connected to worries and ominous themes that cause us some degree of mental anguish. This is connected to the fact that Saturn is traditionally understood to be the planet that is responsible for the most significant challenges and examinations that we face. These challenges and examinations manifest themselves as a sense of being overburdened with heavy responsibilities and concerns.

Because of this, Saturn, when it is positioned in this sector, is able to "joyfully" express the more limiting and uncomfortable aspects of its offerings. The good news about this placement in the birth chart is that it can be connected with a theme of overcoming one's enemies, and despite the fact that it is difficult, it can give the native great powers of perseverance through life's hardest passages in the end.

Aquarius Characteristics

Personality

The archetypal characteristics of Aquarius are derived from its active, masculine, or yang qualities; as a result, this sign is oriented toward engagement with the outer world. Those who were born with the Water-Bearer as their rising, sun, or moon sign have an energy that is clear-cut and objective while also being intelligent and inventive in their core personality, much like the icy core of winter. This quality can be found in both an Aquarian woman and an Aquarian man.

Those whose natal charts feature a significant amount of Aquarius are excellent at devoting themselves to projects and tenaciously sticking to their social principals because Aquarius is a fixed sign and embodies the qualities of a sustainer. Aquarians, who are governed by Saturn, are often referred to as the "reformers" of the zodiac because they question and investigate the social norms that we have developed to determine whether or not they are still applicable and welcoming.

Strengths

The intelligence and the ability to avoid getting bogged down in feelings that might prevent them from maintaining an objective viewpoint are the main attributes of Aquarians. People born under this sign have a preference for abstract thought, which enables them to analyze issues and come up with fresh solutions. Despite being talkative and sociable, they can function in their communities in a perceptive and objective manner, making them generally reliable when objectivity is required and good judges of character.

Contrary to their calm and collected exterior, Aquarians are known for their intelligence and dry wit. People born under the Water-Bearer sign are naturally curious and inquisitive and enjoy dissecting things and other people to learn more about their inner motivations. The rational and determined Saturn, their planetary ruler, may have contributed to Aquarians' willingness to take intellectual or creative risks or to voice the sober but unpopular opinion. Another motto of the Water-Bearer might be, "Nothing gained, nothing lost."

Since the Aquarian archetype is by nature radical, people with this sign prominent in their charts frequently feel as though they don't belong in the mainstream and frequently don't want to! Usually, their eccentric ideas and innovations are only realized later as being simply ahead of their time. It's possible that the rest of us will have to work harder to keep up with our Aquarian inventors and thought leaders. Frequently, they are the first to spot the new frontier before anyone else.

Weaknesses

Some of Aquarius' greatest strengths also serve as some of their greatest weaknesses. Their sharp minds may cause them to be overly cerebral in their daily lives, giving them the appearance of being emotionless, cold, or uncaring. They could find themselves in perplexing situations where they are unable to think their way out of them.

Due to their propensity for abstract thought, Water-Bearers may view life as a series of problems that must be solved and develop concepts that are too abstract to be easily understood. Despite being generally good judges of character, this ability can be overused when people become overly fixated on the idea that another person made a mistake and judge them harshly, sometimes even losing sight of their humanity.

Aquarians have a tendency to become so "fixed" on their beliefs that they hold other people to standards that are unattainable for them. This might cause them to impose many rigid social norms and even harbor resentments, possibly alienating others and putting themselves in a lonely position.

Aquarians are intelligent, witty, and psychologically focused, and they sometimes use humor to tease people they think are less intelligent than they are. While naturally inquisitive, this sign should be careful to avoid becoming nosy, and like their Gemini counterparts, they may need to break a gossiping habit. While Aquarius may be cool and collected in their own emotions, they have a tendency to overlook things that might be offensive to others.

Finally, in order to avoid developing a habit of being disobedient and disruptive just for the sake of it, the Aquarian "contrarian" nature is best channeled into significant and beneficial causes. If not carefully thought out, this could be hurtful and dividing.

Children born under the sign of Aquarius could experience insecurity as they grow up. They will be well-nurtured by being permitted to experiment and express themselves in their own special way, as well as by being accepted and embraced for their different nature.

Aquarius Life Purpose and Career

Mantra and Purpose

The Aquarius mantra, "I know," is the voice of invention, revolution, and abstraction. The Water-sense Bearer's of mission is centered on breaking new ground in society, politics, and technology. Aquarians are the "reformers," upending norms and bringing about change in our society.

We can look to the house that the Water-Bearer rules to identify the particular area of our lives that we approach in an unconventional, intellectual, and even radical manner. We can also use this information to identify areas of our lives where we need to use the Water-inquisitive Bearer's energy for mastery.

People born under the sign of Aquarius are frequently drawn to endeavors that allow them to both challenge and build upon existing theories of social justice, awareness, and thought. The fields of science, research, education, and even psychology offer the Aquarian mind suitable outlets.

Aquarius at Work

Because of their keen observation and inquisitiveness, Aquarians are best suited for occupations that allow them to explore, experiment, and innovate as they work to prove their theories and ideas. For their careers to be fulfilling, there must be some dynamic of invention and discovery.

Since using their mind will probably come naturally to them, jobs where it is not challenged or is not fully utilized would not only be boring to them but would also be a waste of their potential. This could appear in a variety of occupations, but it is unlikely to be seen in sales or service-related roles where employees may be required to project a persona that they are not feeling.

An ideal Aquarian career must be forward-thinking in some way because any job with archaic, arbitrary rules will feel like a prison. Like all air signs, Aquarius craves novelty, activity, movement, and space and will not stay put for very long unless it is a research facility of some sort where there is a lot to learn and explore.

Saturn, the traditional ruler of Aquarius, may inspire Aquarians to pursue careers in social justice and reform. They might make great social workers, both on the front lines and in managerial positions. However, those who exhibit this sign might attempt to alter the system and may not be content to cooperate with a social structure that does not benefit everyone.

People born under the Water-sign Bearer's make excellent teachers and educators because they have a strong passion for learning and are sociable, talkative people by nature. They may be attracted to degrees in political science, gender studies, or even history because they have a strong interest in the development of humanity.

The Water-Bearer may be well suited for research in an exciting field because of their keen concentration skills. If they found it interesting and fulfilling, it would give them the perseverance to see a long-term project through. They might even advocate for an unconventional study when others may not yet see its value.

All types of Aquarians are suited to science because of its many facets. Those born under this sign may choose to major in physics because of their propensity for abstract thought, which will allow them to endlessly delight in exploring quantum theories and the very nature of the universe.

The Aquarian's career in space exploration may be the ultimate manifestation of their "out there" personalities. Work in the space industry requires engineering expertise of all kinds, which may be suited to our Water-Bearer friends. This is in addition to being an astronaut. The math- and analysis-inclined Aquarian might be interested in engineering fields such as aerospace, chemical, computer, electrical, mechanical, and software.

Aquarians can make excellent psychologists because they are naturally inquisitive and fascinated by the mind's capabilities. Their calm discussions of mental and emotional constructs with those in need of support may be made easier by their clear-headed and logical personalities.

When we think about the world of art and entertainment, we must not ignore the radical, rebellious, and inventive nature of Aquarius. The Water-Bearer may be well suited for both sound design and sound engineering because of their unconventional and futuristic nature. They are among the best electronic and "techno" musicians and performers we have today.

Aquarius Compatibility

The rising sign, moon, and other planetary cross-connections will tell the whole story in relationships, so it's important to consider them as well when examining overall compatibility in astrology. Accordingly, Aquarius natives will typically get along best with fire and air signs and may need to put more effort into their connections with water and earth signs.

Fire signs

Fire signs and Aquarius typically get along well because they both have an active, spontaneous nature. Because they value their independence, Aries and Sagittarius are not turned off by Aquarius' cool, distant demeanor.

Particularly Sagittarius will appreciate Aquarius' unconventional and socially challenging ways, and they will feed each other's propensity for eccentricity.

Leo, the proud solar-ruled sign, benefits from the discernment, thoughtfulness, and objectivity Aquarius brings, and they may have an attraction between opposites that is either magnetic or polarizing.

Air signs

Given that they both express themselves as air signs, air signs are a natural match for Aquarius. It will be fun for Aquarius and Gemini to have endless conversations and share ideas in a harmonious but primarily intellectual relationship.

Sharing thoughts on issues of social justice and progressive thought will be enjoyable for Aquarius and Libra. Due to the influence of Saturn, Aquarius may occasionally come off as cold and distant, so it's important to remember to be affectionate with romantic Libra.

It may be beneficial for Aquarius to associate with other Aquarius because they may feel as though they have finally found someone from their own galaxy. Together, they will enjoy debating and innovating, and they might form an unusual alliance.

Water Signs

Water signs help the inquisitive and abstract Aquarius to access their deeper reservoirs of emotion by bringing vulnerability and emotional intelligence.

Aquarius will likely need nurturing, which Cancer will be excellent at providing, but Cancer's need for emotional expression and connection may seem alien and overwhelming to logical Aquarius.

Aquarius' receptive abilities are increased by Pisces because they help them become more spiritually and philosophically aware. However, Pisces might be too secretive and delicate to fully comprehend Aquarius' radical and rebellious nature.

Mars-ruled Although Scorpio can be sexually attractive to Aquarius, the two signs ultimately might not have much in common. Because Scorpio's jealous tendencies are as deeply ingrained as Aquarius' judgmental ones, they may obstinately defend their own elemental territory and frequently engage in conflict.

Earth signs

Earth signs may be the most difficult for Aquarians to relate to, despite the possibility that they can stabilize and ground Aquarius' dispersive and unusual energies.

Since Saturn rules both Aquarius and Capricorn, the authoritative cardinal earth sign, there may be some common ground. They disagree on their core values because Capricorn is typically practical and respects tradition, whereas Aquarius is by nature unconventional.

Taurus is dependable and loving, but it might be a little too grounded for Aquarius' more unconventional ways. Since both are in fixed signs, there will be obstinate standoffs between the Water-Bearer and the Bull, much like the dynamic between Aquarius and Scorpio.

With their analytical natures, Aquarius and Virgo may complement each other; however, Aquarius may be surrounded by gadgets and clutter, which would baffle and irritate Virgo's practical nature. This pairing is too strange to work because Virgo likes to be helpful and Aquarius constantly questions the usefulness of things.

Aquarius Health

Constitution

There were four temperaments associated with four vital fluids and four fundamental constitution types according to classical astrological medicine. Saturn is the planet that rules Aquarius, and this sign is known for having the sanguine temperament, which was once thought to be hot, humid, and related to the blood.

The sanguine constitution was thought to be inherently strong and healthy because it was associated with youth and the springtime. People who are sanguine tend to be upbeat, have lean body types, and are naturally energized. However, due to Saturn's influence, Water-Bearer may need to take care of their bones and joints and watch out for a tendency toward melancholy.

This constitution type may not experience many health issues until their later years, with the possible exception of Aquarian-type imbalances related to dehydration or exhausted energy from overwork. As the naturally high sanguine metabolism begins to slow down, problems with blood pressure or blood stagnation may start to appear.

Body Parts

The entire zodiac was depicted on the human body in classical astrological medicine, with Aquarius ruling the ankles, calves, and shins. People with Aquarius prominent in their birth charts may have long legs, narrow shins, and ankles that are prone to rolling or spraining as a result of this.

Natives of this sign should drink plenty of water and keep their bodies warm and moving. Their sanguine temperaments may have been slightly dampened by being born in the dead of winter, making them more prone to stiffness and chilliness.

Herbal Allies

Comfrey, which is also referred to as "boneset" or "knit bone," grows in wet, grassy areas. It is a well-known herbal treatment for bruises, sprains, and bone fractures because it is high in vitamin C and calcium, has anti-inflammatory properties, and is also a traditional herbal remedy.

Its mineral-rich characteristics can internally "knit" connective tissues and bones back together. It contains allantoin, which can speed up the healing of wounds when applied topically. The sensitive shins and ankles of Water-Bearers can benefit from an ointment or compress made from comfrey, which can also relieve joint and arthritis pain.

In addition to vitamins B, C, E, and K, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, and silica, horsetail is a top-tier Saturnian plant that is also incredibly nutrient-dense. It is therefore great for developing healthy bones, teeth, hair, nails, and skin.

Horsetail tea can help those with osteoporosis increase the density of their bones and treat conditions like water retention, UTIs, kidney and bladder stones, and water retention. Horsetail was once used to polish metal because it is so sturdy and fibrous.

Rosemary is a healing plant for Aquarius because it has solar properties that provide "antipathy" medicine to counteract the effects of the sun's exile or harm. It grows in dry, sunny environments with moderately high temperatures, which would be the polar opposite of Aquarius' wintery climate.

Rosemary warms and warms the head, and for intellectually active Aquarians, its energizing herbal fragrance helps to enhance mental clarity and memory retention. It is astringent and a well-known carminative, which means it aids in reducing gas and advancing digestion. When diluted in a light carrier oil, rosemary oil works wonders for massage. Tight, achy Aquarian calves and shins respond very favorably to its soothing solar warmth.

Esoteric Aquarius

The Three Decans of Aquarius

A 360-degree band of constellations circles the earth, and each of the twelve zodiac signs corresponds to a slice of that band measuring thirty degrees. Three ten-degree decans, or faces, each with a different planetary sub-ruler and arranged around the zodiac in Chaldean order, can be formed from the thirty degrees of each sign.

When attempting to call forth and harness the planetary power of Saturn, these faces can be used to time magical rituals. The faces of Aquarius can be used to fine-tune the flavor and nuance of planets or points placed within these decanic degrees when studying the Aquarius personality.

First Decan of Aquarius: Venus

Venus rules Aquarius from degrees 0 to 9, so people with planets in the first decan may be more artistic and relational than the stereotypically cool Aquarian personality. Of all the Water-Bearers, those born with planets or points here may be the most artistic, romantic, and performative.

Second Decan of Aquarius: Mercury

Mercury is in charge of Aquarius' tenth through nineteenth degrees. Those with prominent placements here are likely to have very strong analytical and intellectual tendencies, according to this face. Among these natives, we might find scientists, inventors, and engineers. Those with stronger literary and conversational tendencies could also be observed.

Third Decan of Aquarius: Moon

The nurturing and enigmatic moon rules Aquarius degrees 20 through 29. These people become somewhat more sensitive, receptive, and even psychic under the influence of the moon. Even those born with third decan placements may manifest as being emotionally more distant and guarded.

AQUARIUS RISING

Meaning of Rising Sign

If the zodiac sign Aquarius was rising in the east when you were born, it indicates that Aquarius was the dominant sign of the zodiac at the time of your birth. If you were born under the sign of Aquarius, you are governed by the element of air, and Saturn and Uranus are your ruling planets. Saturn is the planet of rules, structure, hard work, and determination, while Uranus is the planet of spontaneity, risk, and change.

Now, it might be challenging to comprehend these two planets together; one provides structure and plans, whereas the other suggests breaking rules and taking risks. How is it possible for them to dominate the same sign?

You are going to find out that Aquarius is not only a complicated sign that yearns for independence, but that they are also logical in the sense that they require a methodical strategy to approach life.

Appearance

Calves, shins, and the circulatory system all fall under this sign's purview. People who were born under the sign of Aquarius frequently have pale complexions that give the impression of poor circulation. It's possible that their hair color, eye color, and skin tone all have "lighter" undertones.

In addition to that, this individual frequently possesses long features, most notably in the legs. A person who was born with the Aquarius rising sign will impress others with their tall stature, slim figure, and powerful gams.

An Aquarius rising person should dress in an eccentric manner because their sign is Aquarius. They like to wear one-of-a-kind pieces of clothing (nothing with a "brand name" here!), accessories that are vintage or used, and bright colors. Honestly, if someone has Aquarius rising, you would be able to tell just by looking in their closet that they have Aquarius rising.

Traits

• Aloof
• Curious
• Distant
• Helpful
• Individual
• Intelligent
• Open-minded
• Quirky
• Unique

Personality

A curiously active and dynamic Aquarius rising sign. For instance, at first glance, you might get the impression that they are emotionless or icy. However, underneath it all, they have a very kind heart and a humanitarian spirit. They might give off the impression of being rigid or obstinate (after all, they are a fixed sign!), but in reality, they have an extremely open mind. They look forward to collaborating with others in groups, but at the same time, they feel the pressure to distinguish themselves. The individualistic Uranus and the structured Saturn are the two planets that rule over this sign, so all of this dichotomy originates from those two planets.

This sign is an air sign associated with intellect. Therefore, for this individual, logical thinking, an interest in learning, and a sense of natural curiosity are all second nature. Most of the time, natives born under the sign of Aquarius rising end up in professions that give them the opportunity to test their intelligence in the company of the intellects of others, such as teaching or counseling.

Writing is yet another career path that frequently beckons to those born under the Aquarius rising sign. This placement is very passionate about communicating their ideas, but in comparison to Gemini, they are much more reserved and much more likely to stir up trouble than Libra. Therefore, putting one's ideas down on paper is typically the most effective way to convey one's message.

Because Aquarius is always on the move, people born under this sign, along with those who have Gemini as their rising sign, can be prone to nervousness or anxiety. The best way for them to keep their feet on the ground is to practice maintaining a state of relaxation as much as possible.

The first impression that someone with an Aquarius rising gives off to others is of someone who is caring, interesting, fighting for freedom, and definitely quirky. Because everything an Aquarius rising says and does is so in the moment, it is possible that at first they will find it difficult to keep up with this individual. But you can rest assured that you won't get tired of them at any point!