10 Top Tips for Reading Astrology Charts

10 Top Tips for Reading Astrology Charts

Author: Alison Price   –   Published: October 2025

Introduction

Five-a-Side

This time we’re giving you are top ten tips about astrology and astrology readings. Five tips are from me, Alison, and the other five tips are from Arwynne.

5 Top Tips for Aspiring Astrologers

Your Path

Learning astrology is an exciting journey which helps you understand yourself, your relationships, and the cycles of life on a deeper level.

Everyone comes to astrology through their own path.

 

  • You have read different books to me.
  • You have a different birth chart to me.
  • You have had different life experiences to me.

 

But here we are, at the start of learning astrology and it is so exciting!

 

If you are just getting started as a hobbyist or student astrologer, or you have been curious about astrology for a while, these tips will help you build a strong foundation and help you stay motivated as you learn. If you don’t know where you are astrologer wise, then check out this article on the 5 Levels of AstrologerEven if you are pretty new to the art of astrology, there will be something that you can choose to do first.

 

Overwhelm

Don’t get overwhelmed trying to do everything right now, but rather pick one tip, lean in and do it well.

Podcast Episode

Listen to our Ten Top Tips podcast episode below.

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Alison-price-promo-photo

Alison’s Five Top Tips

Steps

Here are my five top tips that I want to share with you for learning astrology and on how to read a birth chart. These activities will give you much pleasure when you explore your chart and those of your family and friends. To be honest, I really could have gone on a written many more tips than the five here, but I thought that when you start it’s best to keep things simple.

Start with the Basics

Cornerstones

Begin by learning the core building blocks of astrology, the cornerstonesThe four cornerstones of astrology are the planets, signs, houses and aspects.

Glyphs

These four are like the “alphabet” of astrology where the glyphs are the letters. A particular planet in a specific sign, in a precise house, that forms an aspect to another planet has its own storyline.

Synthesis

Once you know what each symbol and piece represents in a chart, you can start to weave them together to create meaningful chart interpretations. A solid foundation makes everything else much easier.

 

Work with Real Charts

Your Birth Chart

Astrology is best learned by doing. Start with your own birth chart, then branch out to charts of friends, family, or even famous people. Her are some examples of the charts you will read.

 

Other People’s Charts

Observing how astrological placements show up in real lives will make the symbolism more tangible and memorable.

 

Keep a Journal

Observations

Track your observations and personal experiences in an astrology journalRecord transits, lunations, and other celestial events along with how they play out in your life.

Cycles

Over time, you’ll begin to notice patterns and deepen your understanding of planetary and solar cycles.

Learn Step by Step

Natal

It’s tempting to jump straight into forecasting or relationship compatibility, but natal chart interpretation is the heart of astrology. Focus on mastering natal charts first.

Forecasting

Once you feel confident reading a birth chart, the more advanced techniques will come naturally.

Learn with Others

Community

Learning astrology is richer when you share it. Find a community where you can ask questions, swap charts and get gentle feedback.

Teach What You Know

Teaching a friend or offering short readings will sharpen your skills and build confidence faster than studying alone.

Group Work

Join online groups, attend workshops or look for a mentor who can guide you along the way.

Arwynne’s Top 5 Tips

Here are my five top tips to help with your astrology readings and beyond.

There are many ways to get started and so just dig in.

Watch the Outer Planets

Historical Shifts

Knowing when Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto change signs and importantly, when they changed signs historically throughout the last say hundred years, can give you a deep understanding of generational differences.

Define Generations

We all know what Millennials, Gen X, Gen Z and Baby Boomers are in our culture, but understanding how the generations are defined by the three outer planets can give you an incredibly rich vocabulary for comparing the differences between not only the big generational changes, symbolized by Pluto, but also the generational shifts that occur every 12 years with Neptune and every 7 years with Uranus.

Think Elementally

Don’t just focus on planets in signs or Sun signs

The great Steven Arroyo’s book about elements was a foundational work in my understanding of astrology and I highly recommend if you’re just getting into studying people’s charts.

Informed Understanding

The four elements contain so much character and personality that can inform your understanding of a chart without even focusing on that signs and houses.

Elements give an overall flavor and sensory understanding that can underpin all the other astrological learning that comes later.

Keep a Transit Journal

Watch It Happen

Don’t just study “what Mars in Gemini means”—watch it happen.

Keep a transit diary: note when planets change signs, make aspects, or station retrograde, and record what’s happening in your life.

Patterns

Over months, you’ll see patterns that stick far better than memorization.

Start with the Sun, Moon, and Rising Sign

Three Main Characters

Think of these three as characters in your life story, or the major components in for personality.

  • In the Freudian sense, the ID, Ego and Superego.
  • In the neuroscience, the amygdala, the limbic system and the cerebral cortex.

Interactive Components

These three components work equally and interactively to create the core of your personality.

Studying these three bodies in your chart, you’ll easily see which are stronger, how they interact, which may be hidden or less active, and which are more integrated with the rest of the planets in your chart.

Read, Research and Reflect

Find Your People

Find bloggers or podcasters who match your personal tastes and interests, and follow them down the rabbit hole. There is already an astrologer, or probably many, with a body of work out there just waiting to be devoured obsessively.

Your Interests

If you’re interested in the stock market, psychology, history, whatever the case may be, find the astrologers who are writing or blogging or podcasting about what interests you and follow them, go down the rabbit hole and read everything they’ve written.

Read, Read, Read

If you’re interested in generational studies, the cycles of history, relationships, self-actualizations, natural disasters, serial killers… find your obsession and read voraciously about it.

Overarch

Lifelong Learning

Astrology is a lifelong study, and no two astrologers practice exactly the same way. Read widely, explore different techniques and stay curious. As you grow, you’ll develop your own unique approach which will feel authentic to you.

 

More Resources

Learning astrology takes time, but with patience and practice, you’ll become more confident in your skills and more insightful in your readings. If you’d like more guidance, sign up for my free weekly newsletter where I share insights, tips, forecasts and inspiration to support your astrology journey.

10-tips

Astrology Business

Here are some more podcast episodes about running an astrology business and being able to read charts for clients which you may enjoy.

Author Bio

Alison Price: Professional Astrologer

Alison helps you uncover your individual creativity and lead a fulfilling life using your own astrology. She shares her wisdom from the heart with a touch of humor. She offers Consultations for everyone and Coaching for Aspiring Astrologers.

If you’d like to get in touch with Alison, you can reach out to her via email at starzology@gmail.com.

More Articles

If you enjoyed this post, you may like some more astrology related articles from our blog.

 

Financial Planets

Financial Planets

Author: Alison Price   –   Published: September 2025

Money

Astrology seems to have answers for just about everything, and money is no exception. One of the questions I hear most often from clients (apart from love) is about their finances. It’s such a hot topic, and over the years I’ve seen how differently it can show up in people’s charts. Everyone has their own unique money story.

Indicators

In this piece, I’m going to focus on the two main financial planets. When I look at these in a chart, alongside other money indicators, I often see patterns that really resonate with clients and help them understand their relationship with money in a whole new way.

 

Podcast

Financial Planets

Listen to our recent podcast episode about Financial Planets.

Book Recommendation

Financial Planets

The two main financial planets are Venus and Pluto.

Money in

Venus is the natural ruler of the second house which is the traditional house for money. This house is also associated with TaurusVenus rules Taurus.

Money Out

Pluto is the second important financial planet. Pluto rules your commitments, outgoings or debts through the eighth house which in the natural wheel is associated with ScorpioPluto rules Scorpio.

Venus

Venus What to look For

The main things to look for with Venus and money are:

 

  • Venus’ direction (direct or retrograde).
  • Venus’ essential dignity through her sign and degree.
  • Venus’ house is Venus in a financial house (2nd, 8th, 5th or 11th?
  • Venus’ aspects to the other planets.
  • Venus’ aspect to Pluto, or not.
  • Venus’ position in the chart.

 

More

Pluto

The main things to look for with Pluto and money are:

 

  • Pluto’s direction (direct or retrograde).
  • Pluto’s essential dignity through her sign and degree.
  • Pluto’s house is Pluto in a financial house (2nd, 8th, 5th or 11th?).
  • Pluto’s aspects to the other planets.
  • Pluto’s aspect to Venus, or not.
  • Pluto’s position in the chart.

 

More

Venus Pluto Aspects

If the two financial planets, Venus and Pluto, have an aspect between them it bodes well for your finances. They will work together through the aspect.

Applying or Separating Aspects

In general, Ptolemaic aspect have an orb of 8° and 4° for a sextile. Venus as the faster if the two planets, will either be applying or separating from an aspect with Pluto.

Applying

The situation has as yet to come to a head. Wait

Separating

When Venus is separating from an aspect to Pluto the situation has passed. It could be that the moment has gone.

Disassociate Aspects

Always consider if Venus and Pluto, when in an aspect with each other, are disassociate as this weakens the bond. This used to be called out of sign aspects.

Example

If Venus is at 28° Libra and Pluto is at 2° Scorpio they are in a disassociate conjunction.

Transits of the Financial Planets

It’s always interesting to look at what is coming up with the transits.

Transiting Venus

Natal chart

When Venus transits your second house you are more likely to get a monetary boost. When Venus conjoins the ruler of your second house you are likely to get financial benefits in some way.

Global Money Flow

When Venus is direct, money flows positively. When Venus is retrograde, money can be stalled and interest rates will likely hold or fall.

Transiting Pluto

Natal charts

When Pluto transits your eighth house you will have to attend to your debts. This is the time to transfer your commitments and pay down what you owe.

Global Debts

When Pluto is direct lending scan be a regular part of life. When Pluto is retrograde avoid taking on extra credit and loans. Watch out as interest rates will probably rise and kill you. Avoid signing mortgage contracts when Pluto is retrograde.

Overarch

Financial Planets

Venus and Pluto are often considered the key financial planets in astrology. Together, they can reveal valuable insights about your overall relationship with money, resources and security as shown by your chart.

Venus reflects how you attract wealth, what you value and your natural ability to create abundance.

Pluto brings depth and transformation, showing where financial power struggles, hidden resources or opportunities for regeneration may emerge.

By looking at both of the financial planets in your chart, you can gain a clearer picture of your monetary patterns, strengths and the deeper lessons tied to your ultimate prosperity.

Author Bio

Alison Price: Professional Astrologer

Alison helps you uncover your individual creativity and lead a fulfilling life using your own astrology. She shares her wisdom from the heart with a touch of humor. She offers Consultations for everyone and Coaching for Aspiring Astrologers.

If you’d like to get in touch with Alison, you can reach out to her via email at starzology@gmail.com.

More Articles

If you enjoyed this post, you may like some more astrology related articles from our blog.

 

Mercury Aspects

Mercury Aspects

Author: Alison Price   –   Published: August 2024

Planetary Aspects

I am continuing on with a series on the planet’s aspects which is part of a basic natal astrology reading series which I’m working on about the aspects of the planets.

 

Cornerstones

Aspects are one of the four cornerstones of chart readings, so this is something that you really would do first when you start to read charts.

This time, I’m looking into planet Mercury’s aspects to the other planets in your birth chart. Your natal Mercury is likely to have a few aspects to the other planets. Not every Mercury get a Ptolemaic aspect from another planet and this is known as an unaspected Mercury. Any Mercury aspects in your natal chart give insights into how your mind works and the way you think, speak and converse.

Mercury, as the planet of communication, rules what you busy your mind with, how you process information, how you express your thoughts, how you learn new concepts and how you connect with other people through language. Your Mercury’s influence through its aspects also covers all forms of mental exchange, like the art of discussion and debate to practical matters like buying and selling through trade and shopping

Mercury Themes

Your Mercury complex and its aspects show things like:

Communication Style

How you naturally express yourself, whether through direct speech, written word, creative expression or non-verbal cues is shown by Mercury. These aspects show whether you tend to be diplomatic or blunt, analytical or intuitive, quick-witted or thoughtfully measured in your responses towards others.

Learning and Mental Processing

Your Mercury aspects indicates the way your mind absorbs, processes and organizes information. Some Mercury aspects indicate rapid-fire thinking and multitasking abilities, while others suggest deep, methodical analysis or creative and non-linear thought patterns. Sometimes Mercury retrograde can affect learning.

Relationship Dynamics

How you connect intellectually with others, share ideas and navigate the give-and-take of interpersonal communication is indicated by your Mercury. These aspects reveal whether you thrive on arguments, prefer harmony in discussions or naturally take on teaching or learning roles in your relationships.

Commercial and Practical Exchanges

Your Mercury placement and aspects show your natural approach to negotiation, business dealings and all forms of trade. That means when you are buying a car, negotiating a salary or simply deciding what to order at a restaurant you engage your Mercury.

Problem-Solving Approach

How you tackle challenges, make decisions and find solutions is suggested by your Mercury aspects. You may rely on logic, intuition, collaboration or independent analysis and this depends on your Mercury’s relationship and how well it is plugged in, or connected, to the other planets in your chart.

You will be better off if you can understand your Mercury aspects as they may show a path for you to improve your communication skills, create better relationships and greater success in all your exchanges. Your Mercury complex includes all personal and professional interactions with people. The more Mercury aspects you have, the richer and more flexible your mental skills are likely to be.

Podcast

Mercury Aspects

In this week’s podcast episode Arwynne and I chat about Mercury’s aspects.

Mercury’s Aspects

Themes

Mercury aspects in astrology are worth close attention because they describe how we think, learn, communicate, and process information. Mercury is the planet of the mind, ideas, speech, writing, and everyday connections. It shapes how we take in the world around us and how we express our inner thoughts back into it.

Mental Style

When Mercury forms aspects to other planets, those energies blend with our mental style. For example, Mercury conjunct Venus might give a love of poetry, pleasant speech, and a knack for diplomacy. Mercury square Saturn can indicate a serious or cautious thinker, sometimes prone to self-doubt but also capable of deep concentration. Mercury trine Uranus often sparks quick insights and innovative ideas.

Pay Attention

Pay attention to Mercury aspects in your natal chart, transits and progressions can reveal:

  • Your learning style: Whether you prefer facts, stories, visuals, or hands-on practice.
  • Your communication strengths and challenges: From confident speaking to thoughtful listening.
  • Your decision-making process: Either quick and intuitive or methodical and deliberate.
  • Your Goods Exchange style: How you barter, buy and sell and the importance of the deal to you.

 

Transits of Mercury

Mercury is fast-moving, so its aspects in transit can shift our mental focus from week to week. Watching these changes can help you understand your own thought patterns and adapt your schedule for tasks that need sharp thinking, careful analysis, or creative brainstorming.

Your Message

By observing Mercury’s aspects, you gain a clearer picture of how your mind is working at any given time. This can help you communicate more effectively, make wiser choices and keep your message aligned with your true intentions.

Applying and Separating

You can also pay attention to aspects which are applying and separating as this will modify the meaning of the aspect.

The Five Ptolemaic Aspects to the Mercury

Natal Ptolemaic Aspects

When you start out with aspects, I suggest you only work on the five Ptolemaic aspects, which are the conjunction, the opposition, the trine, the square and the sextile.

You can move on to the minor aspects later.

Mercury Conjunctions

(360°/1=360° or 0°)

The planet joined with Mercury merges its energy with your thinking and communication style.

 

Positive

Strong focus, united purpose between mind and the other planet’s function, intense clarity in that area.

 

Challenge

Hard to separate pure thought from the emotional, physical, or spiritual influence of the other planet and also objectivity may be reduced.

Mercury Conjunctions Examples

Mercury Conjunct the Sun

Mercury conjoined the Sun shows strong self-expression, clarity of thought, personal opinions shape identity.

Mercury Conjunct the Moon

Mercury conjoined the Moon suggests emotional thinking, a vivid memory and intuitive communication.

Mercury Conjunct Venus

Mercury conjoined Venus brings pleasant speech, artistic ideas and diplomacy with words.

Mercury Conjunct Mars

Mercury conjoined Mars can make speech fast, sharp, and energized.

Expect direct, assertive and sometimes blunt communication as you have quick mental reflexes.

Mercury Conjunct Jupiter

Mercury conjoined Jupiter indicates that you are an optimistic thinker. Have a love of learning and a tendency to overpromise.

Mercury Conjunct Saturn

Mercury conjoined Saturn suggests that you are serious, focused minded and have the potential for disciplined study. There is the question of possibly self-doubt.

Mercury Conjunct Uranus

Mercury conjoined Uranus brings innovative ideas, mental restlessness and lightning insights.

Mercury Conjunct Neptune

Mercury conjoined Neptune indicates that you are imaginative have intuitive thinking and on occasion, the potential for confusion or idealism.

Mercury Conjunct Pluto

Mercury conjoined Pluto shows you possess a deep, probing mind. You are likely to have persuasive speech and transformative ideas.

mercury-card

Mercury Oppositions

(360°/2=180°)

A balancing act between Mercury and the other planet, often expressed through relationships.

Note Mercury does not oppose the Sun or Venus.

Positive

Can see both sides of an argument, valuable in negotiation or diplomacy.

Challenge

Tendency to project one side of the aspect onto others, leading to misunderstandings or external conflicts.

Mercury Opposition Examples

Mercury Opposition Moon

This aspect, Mercury opposition the Moon, blends logic with emotion in a challenging way. Thoughts are often colored by feelings, leading to emotional bias or overreaction in conversations. It may be hard to separate rational thinking from instinctive responses.

Mercury Opposition Mars

With Mercury opposition Mars, quick tempers and sharp tongues are common. People may react too fast in heated conversations, leading to arguments or verbal conflicts. Assertiveness in speech can easily spill into irritation.

Mercury Opposition Jupiter

Ideas can become overly grand or scattered when Mercury opposes Jupiter. Optimism may overshadow practical details, and exaggeration is a recurring theme. There is a tendency to promise more than can realistically be delivered.

Mercury Opposition Saturn

Mercury opposition Saturn brings mental tension and self-doubt. There may be hesitation or fear of speaking, with thoughts feeling blocked or restricted. Rigid thinking and harsh self-criticism can slow down communication.

Mercury Opposition Uranus

A restless and inventive mind appears if your Mercury opposes Uranus, but it may swing toward unpredictability. Thoughts and speech can be erratic or shocking, and conversations may suddenly change direction. The gift is in fresh insights, though consistency may be lacking.

Mercury Opposition Neptune

With Neptune involved, clarity in communication is tested. Confusion, misunderstandings, and idealized thinking are common. You may be inspired or imaginative but still need to double-check facts and avoid wishful thinking.

Mercury Opposition Pluto

The Mercury opposition Pluto aspect brings depth and intensity to thinking. Obsessive thoughts or power struggles in your communication may arise. Words can be used to dominate or to uncover hidden truths, often leading towards your transformative insights through dialogue.

Mercury Trines

(360°/3=120°)

An easy flow of energy between Mercury and the other planet.

Note: Mercury never trines the Sun or Venus.

Positive

Natural talents in communication and learning; ideas seem to “just happen” in a productive way.

Challenge

May lack the push to actively develop skills since they come so easily.

Mercury Trine Examples

Mercury Trine Moon

This aspect supports a natural balance between mind and emotions. If your chart has the Moon trine Mercury you can often express yourself with warmth and empathy. Your words can comfort others and folks easily sense the emotional tone in conversations with you.

You are a skilled listener and nurturing communicator.

Mercury Trine Mars

When Mercury trines Mars in your natal chart you see confidence and courage in communication. Your thoughts are quick, sharp and direct without being overly aggressive. You have an ability to act decisively on your ideas and tend to speak with conviction. Being able to inspire other people through your words with a clear and energetic expression is an asset.

Mercury Trine Jupiter

With Jupiter’s influence, your communication expands. This trine suggests you have a broad-minded enthusiasm for knowledge. Additionally, you have a talent for seeing the bigger picture. Optimistic and generous in thought, you can often inspire others with their faith in possibilities and uplift then through ideas.

Mercury Trine Saturn

Mercury trine Saturn grounds your mind with discipline and structure. It encourages steady, reliable thinking and the ability to plan strategically. Communication is clear, organized and practical. If you have this trine you will make an excellent planner, mentor, or authority because of your thoughtful and somewhat measured approach.

Mercury Trine Uranus

Mercury trine Uranus sparks a bright and inventive mind. Typically, flashes of insight will come easily to you, often ahead of their time. You embrace new ideas with curiosity and openness. This will bring originality to your contacts. Your words may surprise, delight and shift perspectives in fresh ways.

Mercury Trine Neptune

Here imagination flows effortlessly into thought and speech. Creative ideas, artistic inspiration and poetic expression are highlighted when Mercury trines Neptune. You may have a natural gift for storytelling, music or spiritual communication. You can probably offer messages which uplift and inspire others with their beauty and vision.

Mercury Trine Pluto

This aspect deepens the power of the mind. Words carry weight and can transform others. If you have Mercury trine Pluto then you have a penetrating intellect and an ability to uncover hidden truths. You will wield a natural influence over others in your communications. Your speech is received as compelling and draws others into your profound ideas.

trine-aspect

Mercury Squares

(360°/4=90°)

A dynamic tension that pushes growth in mental expression.

Positive

This aspect can bring mental stamina and problem-solving skills under pressure.

Challenge

Misunderstandings, some mental stress or overthinking things are common. You may feel compelled to defend your ideas.

Mercury Square Examples

Mercury square Moon

When Mercury is square the Moon your thoughts and feelings clash. Your head goes up against you needs. You may have trouble articulating your emotions. Sometimes moodiness can affect any clear thinking. You need to balance logic with sensitivity.

Mercury square Mars

This aspect is an indication of someone with a sharp tongue and who is impatience in speech. There is an argumentative streak when Mercury squares Mars. You may find that mental tension can bring quick but rash decisions.

Mercury square Jupiter

Mercury square Jupiter suggest you are predisposed to overpromising, exaggerating and careless speech. You could be tactless as well. You could have trouble focusing on details. There is the urge to balance big ideas with precision. You can make a big deal about things.

Mercury square Saturn

Mercury square Saturn may cause self-doubt in speech but eventually builds disciplined thinking. Self-doubt in thinking, blocked expression and a critical mindset is often the result of a Mercury square Saturn aspect. You may be mentally restricted or narrowminded and yet you can build deep discipline over time.

Mercury square Uranus

Mercury square Uranus indicates you have erratic thoughts and disruptive communications. Sudden outbursts or flashes of genius are likely. You could find it hard to stay consistent.

Mercury square Neptune

Confusion between truth and fantasy is often the case when Mercury squares Neptune. Misunderstandings, unclear thinking. You may have an abundance of creative imagination but there is the risk of deception.

Mercury square Pluto

Intense, obsessive thinking can happen when Mercury squares Pluto. Power struggles through words are common. You can probe deeply but risk manipulation.

Mercury Sextiles

(360°/6=60°)

A supportive, cooperative link between Mercury and the other planet.

Positive

Encourages smooth mental connections, learning and opportunities for expression.

Challenge

Because it’s easy, you might take the gift for granted and not develop it fully.

Note Mercury cannot sextile the Sun.

Mercury Sextile Examples

Mercury sextile Moon

Mercury sextile the Moon indicates that you have a latent talent for blending thought and feeling. You can learn to articulate emotions with sensitivity, becoming a natural counselor or storyteller.

Mercury sextile Venus

Mercury sextile Venus often gives charm in communication and an ear for beauty in language. Latent talent for charming words and artistic expression. With effort, you can develop a graceful communication style that brings people together.

Mercury sextile Mars

When Mercury sextiles Mars you have a latent talent for sharp, confident thinking. You can train yourself to be assertive in debate or writing, standing up for ideas without aggression.

Mercury sextile Jupiter

If Mercury sextiles Jupiter it suggests that you have a latent talent for optimistic, inspiring communication. With focus, you can become a motivating speaker, teacher, or writer who uplifts others.

Mercury sextile Saturn

You have a latent talent for disciplined, structured thinking is present with Mercury sextile Saturn. With practice, you can develop a reliable communication style and be trusted for your careful words.

Mercury sextile Uranus

If Mercury sextiles Uranus you have a latent talent for inventive, forward-thinking ideas. You can cultivate the gift of communicating fresh perspectives and sparking innovation in others.

Mercury sextile Neptune

When Mercury sextiles Neptune in your natal chart you have a latent talent for imaginative, symbolic, or spiritual communication. With work, you can channel your talents into writing, music or art which inspires the soul.

Mercury sextile Pluto

Mercury sextile Pluto suggest that you possess a latent talent for penetrating, transformative thought. You can train yourself to uncover hidden truths and use words as a tool for deep change.

Author Bio

Alison Price: Professional Astrologer

Alison helps you uncover your individual creativity and lead a fulfilling life using your own astrology. She shares her wisdom from the heart with a touch of humor. She offers Consultations for everyone and Coaching for Aspiring Astrologers.

If you’d like to get in touch with Alison, you can reach out to her via email at starzology@gmail.com.

More Articles

If you enjoyed this post, you may like some more astrology related articles from our blog.

 

Saturn’s Aspects

Saturn’s Aspects

Author: Alison Price   –   Published: August 2025

Planetary Aspects

I am continuing on with a series on the planet’s aspects which is part of a basic natal astrology reading series which I’m working on about the aspects of the planets.

Cornerstones

Aspects are one of the four cornerstones of chart readings, so this is something that you really would do first when you start to read charts.

Podcast

Saturn Aspects

In this week’s podcast episode Arwynne and I chat about Saturn’s aspects.

Saturn’s Aspects

Themes

In astrology, aspects to Saturn are significant because they reveal how we deal with responsibility, structure, time, discipline and life’s sometimes hard lessons. Saturn represents maturity, boundaries and playing the long game. When other planets aspect the ringed planet, they interact with this serious, grounding energy and can either support or challenge how we build our lives.

Why Saturn Aspects Matter

Saturn aspects show how we grow up

Saturn is the planet of life lessons and maturity. Aspects to Saturn describe how you handle growing pains, tough love and learning through experience. If Saturn is well-aspected (with trines and sextiles), you may have a healthy respect for rules, timelines, and commitment. If Saturn is under pressure (with oppositions and squares), you may have fears, delays, or a deep sense of inadequacy that needs time and effort to overcome.

Authority and Structure

Saturn represents all your authority figures like your parents, teachers, bosses and the government. Aspects to Saturn can show whether you respect these roles, rebel against them, or feel burdened by their expectations of you. They also indicate how you set your own boundaries and become your own authority.

 

Work Ethics and Career

In career astrology, Saturn aspects will suggest how persistent, reliable and focused you are over time and in the long run. Harmonious and easy going aspects aspects (like trines and sextiles) to Saturn may bring you steady ambition and success through hard work. Challenging aspects (like squares and oppositions) to your Saturn might denote your career blocks or heavy responsibilities early in life, but with perseverance, these very aspects when worked through, can lead to great mastery and recognition.

 

Resilience

When the Moon or Venus aspects Saturn, emotional expression may be cautious or guarded. These aspects can make you seem serious or reserved, but over time they often lead to deep loyalty and stability in relationships. Saturn teaches you that emotional growth requires patience and trust.

 

Saturn Returns

Saturn’s energy unfolds over time. The aspects to Saturn in your birth chart show how you’ll meet different stages of life, especially around your Saturn return at age 29–30 and again at your second Saturn return at age 58–60. These transiting Saturn conjunct Saturn aspects help to explain how prepared you are to handle transitions, long-term goals, and commitments.

 

Applying and Separating

You can also pay attention to aspects which are applying and separating as this will modify the meaning of the aspect.

Saturn-purple

The Five Ptolemaic Aspects to the Saturn

Natal Ptolemaic Aspects

When you start out with aspects, I suggest you only work on the five Ptolemaic aspects, which are the conjunction, the opposition, the trine, the square and the sextile. You can move on to the minor aspects later.

Saturn Conjunctions

(360°/1=360° or 0°)

Blending Energies

A conjunction to Saturn directly intensifies Saturn’s themes. The other planet which joins forces with Saturn takes on a more serious, mature tone. This can bring strong discipline, focus and patience, but it may also feel burdensome, heavy or restricted.

Example: Mercury conjunct Saturn might indicate you are a thoughtful and methodical communicator, but possibly shy or slow to speak up.

Life lesson: Learn to juggle seriousness with ease.

Saturn Oppositions

(360°/2=180°)

Tension and Balance

Saturn oppositions often bring external challenges. Planets in opposition to Saturn may represent people or situations that you think block or judge you. This can lead to self-doubt, but also helps develop awareness of boundaries and the need to find balance between freedom and responsibility.

Example: The Moon opposite Saturn might show emotional highs and lows, often tied to feeling unsupported perhaps by your parents, but with maturity, this leads to strong emotional control.

Life lesson: Learn to stand your ground and create your own stability.

Saturn Trines

(360°/3=120°)

Natural Ease

The trine to Saturn is a harmonious aspect that helps things flow more easily. It shows a mature, grounded approach to life and that you have a natural ability to take responsibility, set boundaries, master things or work toward long-term goals without too much struggle.

Example: The Sun trine Saturn may bring confidence that grows with time, a strong sense of purpose and respect from others.

Life lesson: Use your natural wisdom to guide others.

Saturn Squares

(360°/4=90°)

Challenge and Pressure

A square to Saturn often feels like a test. It can bring internal blockages, delays, or make you have feelings of not being good enough. These aspects also bring the greatest potential for growth, especially if you stick to your guns and learn resilience.

Example: Mars square Saturn, a very tough aspect. may show frustration when trying to take action, but with persistence, it can develop into strong willpower and endurance.

Life lesson: Learn to overcome obstacles and build your inner strength.

Saturn Sextiles

(360°/5=60°)

Supportive Opportunities

The sextile is a gentle, encouraging aspect related to your latent talents. Planets in sextile to Saturn work well together and offer opportunities for consistency through effort. You may have a natural ability to be responsible, plan well or build long-lasting results in the nature of the other planet.

Example: A Venus sextile Saturn aspect could suggest that you have a steady and loyal approach to love and money which is essential for a lasting marriage.

Life lesson: Take advantage of slow and steady progress.

Overarch

Time to Step Up

Aspects to Saturn are essential for understanding how we handle life’s challenges. They show where we need to grow up, take ownership, accept responsibility, stop blaming our parents and earn our rewards. While Saturn aspects may feel heavy at times, they are also the foundation of real achievement, wisdom and inner strength in your life. In your natal chart, Saturn aspects point to where long-term effort can lead to lasting success.

Author Bio

Alison Price: Professional Astrologer

Alison helps you uncover your individual creativity and lead a fulfilling life using your own astrology. She shares her wisdom from the heart with a touch of humor. She offers Consultations for everyone and Coaching for Aspiring Astrologers.

If you’d like to get in touch with Alison, you can reach out to her via email at starzology@gmail.com.

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Lunar Aspects: Basic Natal Astrology

Lunar Aspects: Basic Natal Astrology

Author: Alison Price   –   Published: August 2025

The Moon’s Aspects

The Moon

As the Moon is the first planet that you will interpret when you do an astrology reading. The Moon’s aspects are also super important. When you start out with aspects, I suggest you only work on the five Ptolemaic aspects, which are the conjunction, the opposition, the trine, the square and the sextile. You can move on to the minor aspects later. I believe that any aspect that the Moon makes is worth, nay, more than worth, interpreting.

 

Applying and Separating

You can also pay attention to aspects which are applying and separating as this will modify the meaning of the aspect.

Podcast

Moon Aspects

In this week’s podcast episode Arwynne and I chat about the Moon’s aspects.

moon-aspects-podcast

The Five Ptolemaic Aspects to the Moon

Natal

In a birth chart, the Moon represents our emotional world. It reflects our feelings, instincts, memories and how we respond to others and situations on a gut level. The Moon shows our need for comfort, safety, caring and nurturing. It also speaks to the past through our roots, our mother and food or maternal caregivers and it shows how we internalize care.

Ptolemaic Aspects

The transiting Moon moves quickly through the wheel and changes signs about every two and a half days. This quick pace means the Moon will forms several aspects to other planets and each of these aspects shapes the emotional tone of your chart. If you focus on the five Ptolemaic aspects of the conjunction, opposition, trine, square and sextile you can get a solid framework for understanding the Moon’s dynamic role in your chart.

 

Moon Conjunctions

(360°/1=360° or 0°)

A conjunction blends the Moon’s emotional nature with the other planet’s energy. This can create a powerful emotional focus on that planet and what it represents.

Examples: The Moon conjunct Venus may bring deep sensitivity to love and beauty. The Moon conjunct Saturn might show a more reserved or cautious emotional nature.

Conjunctions tend to be neutral and can be harmonious or tense, depending on the planets involved, but they always intensify emotional awareness when the Moon is involved.

Moon Oppositions

(360°/2=180°)

Oppositions highlight polarities and external projections. When the Moon opposes another planet, you often seek that planet’s energy through others. 

Example: The Moon opposite Uranus may indicate emotional need for freedom and excitement, but you may experience it through unpredictable relationships.

Oppositions show emotional lessons learned through interaction, contrast, projection and sometimes confrontation.

Moon Trines

(360°/3=120°)

A trine suggests ease and natural harmony. When the Moon trines another planet, the emotional flow is smooth and well-integrated.

Example: The Moon trine Neptune could bring emotional intuition and artistic ability. The Moon trine Jupiter adds generosity and faith to your emotional makeup.

Lunar trines show where emotions feel “right” and may come from past life experience or a strong family pattern.

Moon Squares

(360°/4=90°)

The square is a challenging aspect that stirs up internal dilemmas and tension. With the Moon involved, this often brings inner emotional friction or outer conflicts that help you grow.

Example: The Moon square Sun (as mentioned in our podcast) may show struggles between wants and needs or between identity and comfort.

These aspects can point to childhood dynamics that shape our emotional responses. While uncomfortable at times, squares give you, the chart-holder, drive and emotional resilience.

Moon Sextiles

(360°/5=60°)

Moon sextile aspects indicate there is room for opportunities for emotional growth through effort. It is a supportive aspect, the sextile, that suggests your emotions flow more easily when you choose to engage.

Example: A Moon sextile Mercury aspect can bring a natural talent for speaking or writing about feelings. Alternatively, the Moon sextile Mars might show quiet confidence and calm emotional courage.

In general, sextiles indicate inner resources and latent talents which you can develop.

More on the Moon

Here are a few more articles about the Moon which you may like.

moon

Overarch

Why the Moon Matters So Much

The Moon is your internal world and it shows you how you process your life’s ups and downs or ebbs and flows. Luna speaks to your daily moods, unconscious habits and what makes you feel secure. It influences how you bond, how you nurture others and how you want to be nurtured. In relationships, the Moon’s aspects show what you seek to feel emotionally fulfilled. In timing and forecasting, lunar movements and progressions can trigger key feelings and deep inner emotional shifts.

 

Where to Start

By understanding the Moon’s Ptolemaic aspects in a natal chart, you can gain deeper insight into how a person feels, reacts, responds and cares for themselves and others. Lunar aspects form the emotional soundtrack of your life. If you can tune into them, it may bless you with clarity, compassion and wisdom.

Author Bio

Alison Price: Professional Astrologer

Alison helps you uncover your individual creativity and lead a fulfilling life using your own astrology. She shares her wisdom from the heart with a touch of humor. She offers Consultations for everyone and Coaching for Aspiring Astrologers.

If you’d like to get in touch with Alison, you can reach out to her via email at starzology@gmail.com.

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This Month’s New Moon

This Month’s New Moon

Author: Alison Price   -   Published: July 2025 August 23rd at 0° Virgo This month’s New Moon is on August 23rd at 0° Virgo. More on Virgo First of Two Virgo New Moons in 2025 This year there will be two New Moons in Virgo. This often happens that there is one sign...

The Sun’s Aspects

The Sun’s Aspects

Author: Alison Price   –   Published: August 2025

The Sun’s Aspects

The Sun

As the Sun is the first planet that you will interpret when you do an astrology reading. The Sun’s aspects are also super important. When you start out with aspects, I suggest you only work on the five Ptolemaic aspects, which are the conjunction, the opposition, the trine, the square and the sextile. You can move on to the minor aspects later. I believe that any aspect that the Sun makes is worth, nay, more than worth, interpreting.

 

Applying and Separating

You can also pay attention to aspects which are applying and separating as this will modify the meaning of the aspect.

symbology-sun

Podcast

Sun Aspects

In this week’s podcast episode Arwynne and I chat about the Sun’s aspects.

The Five Ptolemaic Aspects to the Sun

Natal

In basic natal astrology, the Sun symbolizes your life force, vitality and sense of purpose. It’s the central energy of your birth chart and represents your identity, drive and the reason that you get up in the morning. When any planets form aspects to your Sun, they color your character and influence how you express your core self. These planetary connections, the solar aspects, help shape your motivation and show where and how you shine in the world.

Sun Conjunctions

(360°/1=360° or 0°)

A conjunction to the Sun blends the two planetary energies together. The Sun is already powerful, so any planet close by becomes supercharged. This aspect brings intensity and focus.

Example: If you have a Sun-Mercury conjunction, for instance, your thoughts and words are closely tied to your identity.

Example: A Sun-Mars conjunction adds drive, boldness and personal initiative.

Conjunctions to the Sun often mark key traits in your personality because they are so strongly felt.

Sun Oppositions

(360°/2=180°)

An opposition to the Sun brings awareness through reflection and relationship. These aspects often show up through other people and their responses to you.

Example: A Sun-Moon opposition (a Full Moon person) might indicate a tug-of-war between your head and your heart, or between your public self and your private needs.

Oppositions can feel like a push-pull dynamic through projection, but they also offer balance and the potential to integrate both ends of the spectrum.

Sun Trines

(360°/3=120°)

A trine to the Sun indicates a harmonious and flowing relationship between the two energies. It shows natural talents, self-confidence and ease of expression.

Example: A Sun-Jupiter trine often brings optimism and a broad outlook on life.

Example: A Sun-Neptune trine might gift you with artistic or musical abilities, sensitivity and vision.

Trines really don’t require much effort. Trines simply just work, but at times they can be so smooth that they go unnoticed or underused.

Sun Squares

(360°/4=90°)

Squares, the aspect of inner dilemmas, to the Sun create personal tension that pushes you to act. They show where you’ll face challenges in expressing your identity.

Example: A Sun-Saturn square might bring self-doubt or a slow path to confidence, but with effort, it can help you build strong inner discipline.

Squares can feel uncomfortable, but they’re often the reason we get up of the couch and get things done. They generate the friction needed for personal growth. 

Sun Sextiles

(360°/5=60°)

A sextile to the Sun brings easy-flowing energy and creative opportunities. It’s a supportive, cooperative connection that urges you to grow your latent talents.

Example: With a Sun-Venus sextile, you may have a natural flair for art, charm or diplomacy.

These easy aspects show where things feel easier or where you are naturally drawn to develop yourself. Typically, sextiles are subtle but beneficial once engaged.

Overarch

That Little Light of Yours

Working with the Sun’s aspects is something that every astrologer will do every time they look at a chart, and so should you. Understanding even the basic aspects between the Sun and the Moon, if there is one, can be extremely insightful when doing a chart reading. Your Sun shows your personal story of becoming yourself and owing your identity.

In your natal chart, all aspects to your Sun reveal how you build your identity and where your life energy naturally flows. Solar aspects are key to understanding your birth chart because they show how your core essence interacts with the rest of your planetary team. They are like the captain of your ship.

These important connections guide your confidence, purpose and personal journey. At Starzology, I always encourage aspiring astrologers to spend time with their own Sun’s aspects, because they give a deep insight into what drives you, your heart of hearts, where your strength lies and how you radiate that little light of yours into the world.

sun

Aspects Articles

Here is a roundup of some of my aspect articles which you may enjoy.

 

Author Bio

Alison Price: Professional Astrologer

Alison helps you uncover your individual creativity and lead a fulfilling life using your own astrology. She shares her wisdom from the heart with a touch of humor. She offers Consultations for everyone and Coaching for Aspiring Astrologers.

If you’d like to get in touch with Alison, you can reach out to her via email at starzology@gmail.com.

More Articles

If you enjoyed this post, you may like some more astrology related articles from our blog.