Saturn the Real Karma Chameleon

Saturn the Real Karma Chameleon

Guest Post

This is a guest post by Maria Hayes and Astrologer and Tarot Reader from Trusted Astrology.

Is Saturn the Real Karma Chameleon or Your Next Cosmic Life Coach?

You know that feeling when life suddenly gets really serious? When the universe seems to be asking you to grow up, take responsibility, and face the stuff you’ve been avoiding? That’s Saturn doing what it does best.

Saturn has earned its nickname as the “Planet of Karma” and honestly, it’s spot on. While other planets zip through your astrological chart like they’re late for a meeting, Saturn takes its sweet time, about 2.5 years in each zodiac sign. This isn’t just cosmic window shopping. Saturn means business, which may be stressful, but is helping you become the person you’re meant to be.

Saturn: The Universe’s Most Patient (But Persistent) Teacher

So, what does Saturn represent in astrology?

Well, here’s the thing about Saturn: it’s not out to randomly mess with your life.

It’s actually more like that teacher who actually cared enough to push you, even when you didn’t want to be pushed. This planet seeks to activate the consequences of your past choices, but not in a vindictive way…more like a cosmic mirror reflecting back what you’ve put out there.

Been cutting corners at work? Saturn’s transit might bring professional challenges that force you to step up. Avoiding those tough conversations in your relationship? Don’t be surprised when those issues come back with compound interest. It’s not punishment, it’s accountability.

The beautiful thing about Saturn is that its lessons unfold slowly. Unlike instant karma that hits you like a lightning bolt, Saturn gives you time to really understand what’s happening and why.

It’s karma with a learning curve.

The Five Stages Every Saturn Transit Takes You Through

If you’ve ever been through a major Saturn transit, you’ll recognize this pattern. It’s like emotional boot camp, but with a purpose:

First: The “Wake-Up Call”

Saturn makes you painfully aware of something you’ve been ignoring. Maybe it’s that relationship that’s been slowly poisoning your happiness, or the career dream you keep putting off, or that old wound you refuse to heal. Suddenly, you can’t unsee it.

Second: The “Fight”

Well, it’s where things get interesting (and by interesting, I mean dramatic). You resist the

change and try to make the old way work just one more time. You might even convince yourself everything’s totally fine. Spoiler alert: it’s not, and deep down you know it.

Third: The “Breakdown”

To move forward, Saturn forces you to surrender, and something in your life collapses. It might be your ego, your carefully laid plans, or a cherished illusion about how things “should” be. This phase feels awful, but it’s absolutely necessary. You can’t build something new on a shaky foundation.

Fourth: The “Rebuild”

This is when the real work begins. You start rebuilding, but this time with humility and wisdom.

Saturn loves this stage because you’re finally doing what needs to be done, not what you want to do.

Fifth: The “Payoff”

Bearing fruit, this usually arrives by the time the transit ends. You emerge stronger, wiser, and more grounded. The struggle was worth it, and you can see that clearly now. You’ve leveled up in the most authentic way possible.

How to Work With Saturn Instead of Against It

The secret to thriving during Saturn transits isn’t to fight them, it’s to collaborate. Here’s how to make Saturn your ally:

Embrace the Marathon Mindset

Saturn rewards consistency over quick fixes.

That side project you keep thinking about? Start it now, but commit to the long game. Saturn doesn’t hand out instant rewards, but the results you build during its transit are worth the wait.

Think of it like planting an oak tree, you won’t see the full majesty immediately, but with patience and care, you create something beautiful and lasting.

Own Your Part in the Story

Saturn’s favorite question is: “What’s your part in this?”

During its transits, you’ll face areas where you’ve been avoiding responsibility. Instead of playing the victim, get curious about where you might have cut corners or ignored your duties.

This isn’t about shame, it’s about honest self-reflection that leads to real growth.

Build Structure That Actually Serves You

Saturn loves discipline, but not the punishing kind. So, you don’t have to equate it to some sort of karmic debt.

It prefers the liberating kind, the structure that actually makes your life easier and more meaningful. Use this transit to build sustainable routines and set boundaries that support your long-term goals. Think of it as cosmic Marie Kondo-ing your life.

Practice Patience as a Spiritual Practice

Saturn’s timing is rarely your timing, and that’s entirely the point, but not in a dangerous way.

This transit teaches you that real growth happens in the waiting. When things move slowly, it’s not because the universe is working against you, it’s because you’re being prepared for something bigger than what you originally imagined.

The Hidden Gift in Saturn’s Challenges

Here’s what most people miss about Saturn transits: they’re not punishment, they’re purification.

Saturn strips away what doesn’t serve you, even when you’re emotionally attached to it. That soul-draining job? The toxic relationship? The habits that keep you small? Saturn creates circumstances that make change not just possible, but inevitable.

Saturn’s ultimate goal isn’t to make you suffer, it’s to guide you toward your highest potential. It’s like having a personal trainer for your soul. The workouts are tough, but the transformation is real.

Your Saturn Survival Kit

When Saturn’s lessons feel overwhelming, remember these truths:

Every challenge contains a gift. Saturn never gives you more than you can handle, only more than you think you can handle. This is crucial to remember when everything feels impossible.

Shortcuts don’t work with this planet, nor do numbers like 777. Saturn sees through surface-level changes and demands authentic transformation. You can’t fake your way through a Saturn transit. The work has to be real and deep.

The struggle is temporary, but the wisdom lasts forever. Saturn transits end, but the lessons become part of who you are. You carry that strength and understanding with you for the rest of your life.

You’re stronger than you know. Saturn only tests you because it believes in your capacity to grow. It wouldn’t present you with challenges if it didn’t know you could handle them.

The Real Payoff

People who learn to work with Saturn’s energy rather than against it often describe their transit experiences as life-changing in the best possible way. Yes, the process can be intense, but it’s also deeply meaningful. You’re not just surviving random difficulties, you’re actively participating in your soul’s evolution.

Saturn doesn’t ask you to be perfect. It asks you to be authentic, responsible, and committed to growth. When you meet its challenges with maturity and dedication, this cosmic teacher becomes your greatest ally. You end up creating a life of genuine substance and lasting fulfillment.

Remember: Saturn’s transits feel like karma because they are karma. But not as punishment, as a sacred opportunity to become who you’re truly meant to be. The universe isn’t working against you during these times. It’s working with you to help you reach your highest potential.

And honestly? That’s the most beautiful kind of tough love there is.

Guest Author

Maria Hayes

Astrologer and Tarot Reader

Founder of Trusted Astrology

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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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Wine Zodiac Pairings: Which Wine Compliments Your Sign?

Wine Zodiac Pairings: Which Wine Compliments Your Sign?

Guest Post

by Nicholas Rubright

Nicholas is a digital marketing specialist for Jordan Winery a California Wine company that specializes in producing high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Champagne, and other delicious products.

Be a Guest Writer

If you’d like to be a guest writer for Starzology check out this guest writer information article.

Wines and Signs

Zodiac Pairings

Wine and the zodiac actually have a lot in common. Both have elements that change over time and have seasons and situations in which they shine best. Each sign in the zodiac wheel compliments the others in a specific way, just as wines compliment different foods. There are already so many resources out there about how to pair food and wine. Today I’m going to do something a little different and tell you which wine compliments your zodiac sign and why.

 

Fire Signs

Aries and Petite Sirah

Petite Sirah Profile

Style: Full Body, Dry, High Tannin, High Alcohol
Flavors:  Sugar Plum, Blueberry, Dark Chocolate, Black Pepper, Black Tea

Though it’s a common California wine, Petite Sirah comes from a French grape called “Peloursin”. This is a rare grape, with a very flavorful profile. This wine is popular for its bold, fruity flavors which contrast its dark red color.

 

Aries Traits

March 21 – April 19 | The Ram

Strength: Bold, Honest, Determined, Confident
Weakness: Aggressive, Impulsive, Moody, Impatient

Aries is the first sign in the zodiac wheel. It falls under the Fire element. As the first sign, Aries is open to new opportunities. They move through life knowing that they’re leading the way for a new adventure, even if their adventures are short lived. As a fire sign, Aries tend to have bold emotions at all times. It is not unlike an Aries to show some tough love. To an Aries it means they are doing right by you. This blunt honesty is what makes them a loyal friend and lover.

 

Petit Sirah Pairing

Petite Sirah is full of aggressive sweet and bitter notes. Similar to Aries, who are bold in their own right, giving you a refreshing solution to a problem. Within all its powerful flavors, Petite Sirah is good for your health. The bitterness is an effect of the high level of tannins in this kind of wine. Like an Aries’ brutal honesty can leave a sour taste in your mouth, so can a Petite Sirah. Among its sweet notes of blueberries and sugar plums,  Petite Sirahs have the bitterness of dark chocolate and black pepper to spice things up. Life is never boring with an Aries, this flavorful wine pairing will not disappoint.


Leo and Champagne

Champagne Profile

Style: Light Body, High Acidity, Intensely Dry
Flavors: Citrus, Peach, White Cherry, Almond, Toasty

Champagne comes in a variety of brut, dry, and sweet bodies with deep flavors that pair great with seafood or crunchy appetizers. You know Champagne as the world’s go-to bubbly used to celebrate special occasions like weddings, holidays, and Friday nights.

 

Leo Traits

July 23 – August 22 | The Lion
Strength: Ambitious, Loyal, Generous, Enthusiastic, Leader
Weakness: Egoistic, Lazy, Stubborn, Arrogant

Out of all the Fire signs, Leos yearns most to make an impression. In fact, it’s their number one priority. Their personality is powerful and attractive making them hard to miss. As far as love languages go, this Fire sign is most fluent in Words of Affirmation. As much as they receive compliments, they’ll give them right back to you. Leo’s warm heart and eagerness to do well in everything they set out to do is what makes up their magnetic confidence and loyalty. However, if Leos are mistreated, they won’t hesitate to move on from what is making them unhappy.

 

Champagne Pairing

A Leo’s loyalty is unmatched so long as it’s reciprocated. They know what they deserve and will not budge. Fire signs need the proper attention to feel someone is worth the affection they are giving. When you don’t fulfill the needs of a Leo, their confidence dwindles. Just like a Champagne left unattended, that can’t help but go flat. Both Champagne and Leos can be dry or sweet depending on their style. Regardless of the details, there is no better pair to celebrate with than Leos and Champagne.

 


Sagittarius and Malbec

Malbec Notes

Style: Full Body, Dry, Low Acidity, Low Tannin, High Alcohol
Flavors: Red Plum, Blackberry, Vanilla, Tobacco, Cocoa

Like many other wines, Malbec originated in France. However, most vineyards that produce this wine are in Argentina. Malbec has a deep and sweet full body bound to leave you wanting more. It’s cocoa and vanilla tones give this red wine a smooth finish every time.

Sagittarius Traits

November 22 – December 21 | The Archer
Strength: Idealistic, Adventurous, Persistent, Optimistic, Romantic
Weakness: Competitive, Impulsive, Impatient, Overachiever, Blunt

Sagittarians are the social butterflies among the zodiac. They are known to be very positive and outgoing. They are always up for sharing information with others. As the Archer, they seek out as much knowledge as they can find. A Sagittarian’s curiosity is limitless especially regarding love, philosophy, and religion. They yearn to be free, therefore knowledge and adventure is what they pursue most. This can make them a bit stubborn, as they hate being told the can’t do something.

Malbec Pairing

Malbec is a fun and strong wine with strong notes of oak and black fruits. As the last of the Fire signs, Sagittarians can be as aggressive in their passion as they are in their truth-seeking. Unlike other wines, a Malbec’s finish does not last, and the same can be said with the adventures of a Sagittarius. Just like Aries, Sagittarians are very good at starting new ventures but are not the best as finishing them. Without looking back at how their last one ended, they’ll embark on a new one.

wine-glasses-and-wine-bottle

Earth Signs

Taurus and Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon Profile

Style: Full Body, Dry, High Tannin, High Alcohol
Flavors: Black Cherry, Black Currant, Baking Spices, Cedar

Cabernet Sauvignon is among the safest choices when selecting a red wine. It has a strong full body with a balance of fruits and spices. This California wine is easy to pair with a variety of unexpected foods. Sure, red meat is an obvious pairing, but get yourself some dark chocolate with this wine, and you’ll be dreaming about it later.

Taurus Traits

April 20 – May 20 | The Bull
Strength: Loyal, Dependable, Patient, Grounded
Weakness: Possessive, Aggressive, Uncompromising

Earth signs tend to do things to get rewarded. Taurus is no exception. People who fall under this sign will work hard for the benefits they earn. Along with their work ethic, a Taurus is dependable knowing that they will earn respect and other prizes. However, they know it’s a two-way street and remain aware that their work is ongoing. This is where their patience comes in. As hopeless of a romantic as they can be, a Taurus is always on the defense. You must first earn their trust before they feel safe giving you theirs in return.

Cabernet Sauvignon Pairing

Cabernet Sauvignon is a sensual red wine that you learn to love and trust – not unlike a Taurus. The sensual undertones of the wine’s flavor evoke black fruits and spices. These undertones are found in Taurians too, they’re one of the most sensual signs on the wheel. Both the sign and wine have a range of earthy flavors with a strong body, and dry style.


Virgo and Chardonnay

Chardonnay Notes

Style: Full Body, Dry, Medium Acidity, High Alcohol, Little to No Tanning
Flavors: Yellow Apple, Starfruit, Pineapple, Vanilla, Butter

Chardonnay was originally harvested in large quantities in the Burgundy region of France. The variety of flavors a Chardonnay offers is not limited to the list above. When fermented and aged in oak, it develops spicy, almost bourbon-like notes, making it the rich white wine we love.

Virgo Traits

August 23 – September 22 | The Maiden
Strength: Strong, Hardworking, Observant, Analytical, Sophisticated
Weakness: Intense, Dominating, Perfectionist, Shy

Virgos have a very practical way of making their plans. Like Taurus, this Earth sign doesn’t mind putting in the work, as they realize how the little things can add up to the big picture. Virgos are known to be the most sophisticated on the zodiac wheel. Both their work and honest advice are delivered clearly so that you won’t misunderstand what they mean. It is their graceful advice and willingness to help that make Virgos great friends.

Chardonnay Pairing

It takes a lot of dedication to make Chardonnay the elegant wine it is, much like the dedication Virgos put into their own craft. Virgos are sophisticated in the way they talk, work, and carry themselves. Some call it perfectionism, Virgos call it attention to detail. Virgos are loved for their ability to compliment all the other signs just as Chardonnays are loved for their versatility in food pairing.


Capricorn and Sauvignon Blanc

Sauvignon Blanc Profile

Style: Light Body, Dry, Low Alcohol, Low Tannin, High Acidity
Flavors: Gooseberry, Honeydew Melon, Grapefruit, White Peach, Passion Fruit

It’s hard to confuse Sauvignon Blanc with other white wines (like Chardonnay). When compared, you’ll note Sauvignon Blanc is full of acidity and herbal flavors. This rich white wine is widely produced as the grape can be grown almost anywhere. The result, Sauvignon Blanc comes in a variety of ranges – from lean to bountiful.

Capricorn Traits

December 22 – January 19 | The Goat
Strength: Responsible, Disciplined, Ambitious, Practical

Weakness:Inability to be Wrong, Pessimistic, Unforgiving

Capricorns will tell you they are the “Greatest Of All Time” or these days, G.O.A.T. This earth sign is a determined sign which doesn’t need to be asked to do what they know needs to be done. Along with their practical sense of duty, they always strive for success. Yet they are fully aware that their success will take time. After all, Rome wasn’t built in a day. That’s an Earth sign for you.

Sauvignon Blanc Compatibility

Capricorns are dry with their emotions, much like Sauvignon Blanc. This is due to a Capricorn’s view of the world and their diligent traits. Sauvignon Blanc is one-part fruits and one-part earthy notes matching Capricorn’s element perfectly.

Air Signs

Gemini and Bordeaux Blend

Bordeaux Blend Profile

Style: Full Body, High Tannin, High Alcohol, Medium Acidity, Dry
Flavors: Black Currant, Black Cherry, Graphite, Chocolate, Dried Herbs

A Bordeaux Blend is made up of grapes used for red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, in addition to other grapes harvested within the same region of France. The uses of multiple grapes make this wine a sweet, dark, red blend with high tannins and a strong body. Perfect for red meat pairings with very little seasoning.

Gemini Traits

May 21 – June 20 | The Twins
Strength: Intellectual, Versatile, Social, Cheerful
Weakness: Gossipy, Indecisive, Superficial, Anxious

Gemini is one of the signs that tends to earn a bad reputation. They have a two-faced stigma as their personality is ever changing. The reality is that Geminis are too smart for their own good. They can adapt to any environment they are in, and behave accordingly. Air elements will demonstrate an ease of going with the flow, and Gemini is no exception. Geminis also love to talk your ear off, but it’s hard to not enjoy a Gemini’s company. Their charm is contagious, and it’s almost impossible not to learn from them.

Bordeaux Blend Compatibility

Can you blame me for picking out a Blend for the Twins? Much like Bordeaux Blend is mixed to balance well, Geminis have their own mix. It should be said that as versatile as Geminis come, you never really know which Gemini you’ll get. Just as you never know which grapes are within the Bordeaux Blend you choose. Though the flavor of the wine varies in strengths (either sweet or citrusy), the wine stays true to its notes. As do Geminis to themselves.


Libra and Moscato

Moscato Profile

Style: Light Body, Low Alcohol, Sweet, Low Acidity
Flavors: Meyer Lemon, Mandarin Orange, Pear, Orange Blossom, Honeysuckle

Moscatos are among the sweet white wines with fruity notes. Unlike the majority of the wines mentioned, Moscato is an Italian wine made with the Muscat Grape. There are different Moscato styles which include Bubbly, Still, Pink, Red, or Dessert Moscato. This wine can be made into several styles depending on which Muscat grape is used, and how.

Libra Traits

September 23 – October 21 | The Scales
Strength: Fair, Charming, Diplomatic, Easy Going, Imaginative
Weakness: Indecisive, Bad Temper, People Pleasers, Overthinker

Libras are towards the center of the zodiac wheel, and you can see a noticeable change in the signs that follow. The first six signs of the zodiac focus more on their individual needs. While the signs that follow Libras care more about their impact on others. As the Scales, Libras constantly analyze if should they be kinder or harsher depending on how others treat them. This constant mental back and forth is what feeds their indecisiveness.

Moscato Pairing

Libras and Moscatos always leave a good impression. A Moscato wine is sweet and aromatic, while balanced with acidity and a mineral finish. Libras are all about finding and providing balance. Be it in work or relationships, they find comfort in harmony. Libras don’t care to change for most people. To do so, would tip the balance scale and would be unfair to their own desires. Though a Muscat grape can fit into any type of Moscato, the wine will always stay true to its flavor and body, no matter the color.


Aquarius and Pinot Noir

Pinot Noir Profile

Style: Light Body, Dry, High Acidity, Low Tannins
Flavors: Cherry, Raspberry, Hibiscus, Mushroom, Vanilla

Pinot Noir is among the world’s favorite red wines. A bottle of light-red wine can be aged for up to 10 years, sometimes more. The aging process enriches the flavors making it all the more satisfying in color and taste.

Aquarius Traits

January 20 – February 18 | The Water Bearer

Strength: Humanitarian, Intelligent, Independent, Loyal, Visionaries
Weakness: Detached, Extremist, Aloof, Stubborn, Unpredictable

An Aquarius showers us with their knowledge and ideas, as a Water Bearer showers people with their gift of water. This Air sign is all about making humanity great. They look to encourage others to do better because they see the world as a clock that runs on many gears. If one piece fails, the clock doesn’t work. They apply this philosophy to themselves as well – always trying to improve on their weaknesses.

Pinot Noir Pairing

Both Aquarians and Pinot Noir are dry, yet smooth. A Pinot Noir wine’s finish is smooth though its body is light with high acidity. In comparison, Aquarians are not ones to lead with emotions. They can be dry in their efforts to communicate how they feel. They believe their actions will speak for themselves. Just as an Aquarius is progressive, Pinot Noir is one of those wines that increase in finesse with age.

 

Water Signs

Cancer and Riesling

Riesling Profile

Style: Light Body, Little Tannins, High Acidity, Off-Dry, Low Alcohol
Flavors: Lime, Green Apple, Beeswax, Jasmine, Petrol

Rieslings are an aromatic white wine that was first produced in Germany, making it stand out from the French and California wine crowds. It was turned into a classic table wine for its ability to pair well with savory and sweet foods.

Cancer Traits

June 21 – July 22 | The Crab
Strength: Kind, Creative, Family Oriented, Tough
Weakness: Hot-Headed, Immature, Moody, Overthinkers, Emotional

Cancer signs are deeply empathetic, as all water signs are. Cancers are driven by their nurturing needs and seek to have a family when all is said and done. Though they wear their hearts on their sleeve, Cancers aren’t weak. As the Crab, Cancers have a tough exterior and will be strong when they need to be, especially to protect their loved ones.

Riesling Pairing

There’s a sense of moodiness to both Cancers and Rieslings. While Cancers have a sweet demeanor, their temper is strong. Cancers are quick to react based on their emotions. Rieslings, too have plenty of strength. They can range from tasting really sweet to bone dry. The sweetness of a Riesling is controlled during the fermentation process. It’s not so much up to the grape’s nature as it is on the maker’s influence. Like a Cancer’s empathetic nature, which has a tendency of getting away from them.


Scorpio and Merlot

Merlot Profile

Style: Full Body, Extra Dry, High Tannin, Medium Acidity, High Alcohol
Flavors: Cherry, Plum, Chocolate, Bay Leaf, Vanilla

Merlot is one of those wines that stand out in the crowd. It has vibrant black cherry flavors and great depth. Due to its complimenting flavors and chocolatey finish, Merlot is a wine can mix well with other full body wines, like Cabernet Sauvignon.

Scorpio Traits

October 22 – November 21 | The Scorpion
Positive: Loyal, Passionate, Determined, Intuitive, Empathetic
Negative: Secretive, Intense, Emotional, Jealous, Flirtatious

Scorpios are one of the other signs that get a bad reputation. If you ask around, people will tell you that Scorpios are the most intense, but this is due to their passion. They hate small talk, for example, and would much rather just get to the point. A Scorpio’s keen sense of intuition is what helps them know if a person is lying, or being shady. They also know who is good and will be fiercely loyal with whom they trust. Break that trust, however, and it’s game over for whoever wronged them.

Merlot Pairing

A Merlot starts bitter (or intense, if you will) with sweet tones to finish it off. If you don’t pay attention, you’ll miss it the uniqueness of this full body wine. We can learn to appreciate a Scorpio, in the same way we appreciate a Merlot. Scorpio’s sweetness comes through in their passion and loyalty. To a Water sign like Scorpio, loyalty means never revealing secrets. This type of loyalty, along with their protective nature, is what makes them irreplaceable in friendships and love.


Pisces and Rosé

Rosé Notes

Style: Light Body, Dry, Low Tannin
Common Flavors: Lime, Cherry, Watermelon, Strawberry, Celery, Pepper

Rosé is a wine that does not come from a specific grape. Instead, it can be made from a variety of grapes that are used to make fuller bodied wines. Grapes found in Rosé include, but are not limited to, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Sangiovese, and Grenaché. Contrary to popular belief, Rosé does not come from mixing wines. And though doing so is prohibited in many places, the region of Champagne, France is not one of them. Ergo, the Rosé Champagne we all know and love.

Pisces Traits

February 19 – March 20 | The Fish
Strength: Artistic, Compassionate, Intuitive, Gentle
Weakness: Fearful, Too Trusting, Head in the Clouds, Play the Victim

Pisces is both the last Water sign of the bunch and the last sign in the zodiac wheel. Perhaps this order is what makes up Pisces traits, as they encompass a little from all the signs. Though Pisces like to keep to themselves, there’s no denying they are focused, selfless, and easy going. After all, they are the Fish of the wheel, so they just keep swimming. Like their Water sign companions, they are very empathetic and protective of their hearts. Their eagerness to make others happy can be taken advantage of. Knowing this, they will be kind, but never a pushover. They can tell people’s bad intentions from miles away.

Rosé Pairing

Just like a Rosé can be composed of a variety of grapes that come from other wines, a Pisces is shaped like their zodiac family. When hanging out with a Pisces, it’s never dull. Like with any Rosé you choose, it is always a fun and unique experience.

  

Nicholas Rubright

Nicholas is a digital marketing specialist for Jordan Winery a California Wine company that specializes in producing high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Champagne, and other delicious products.

Fun Fact: he is a Pisces-Aries Cusp being born on March 20th.

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An Introduction to Interpreting the Four Humours

An Introduction to Interpreting the Four Humours

This Guest Post is by UK astrologer James Hirlehey.


An Introduction to Interpreting the Four Humours

The four humours are the cornerstone of reading a chart for the health and well-being of the native, as well as determining their character and temperament from a more traditional perspective. This article will introduce the four humours and will give you some suggestions for your own study and research.

What are the four humours?

Most people have heard of the four humours in the context of Ancient Greek philosophy. They are generally taught as being related to bodily fluids in the following way:

  • Sanguine – blood
  • Choleric – yellow bile
  • Melancholic – black bile
  • Phlegmatic – phlegm

Later, an astrological student might learn that sanguine relates to the element air, choleric relates to fire, melancholic relates to earth, and phlegmatic relates to water. Then, if you study further, you might learn about temperament in the context of general personality traits of each of these humours.

Temperament and humours are far more intricate than this, however, and they form the foundation for Western Astrology.

The two polarities

The four humours are based on two polarities, hot/cold and wet/dry. The hot/cold polarity is rather straightforward. It relates to literal heat and coolness, but it also relates to activity level. Hot is active and busy, and cold is passive and calm. The wet/dry polarity is a little more complicated. It has to do with unity and separation. Wet connects and brings things together, and dry separates them and creates distinctions.

The correspondence between the humours, elements, and polarities is as follows:

  • Sanguine – Air (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius) – hot and wet
  • Choleric – Fire (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) – hot and dry
  • Melancholic – Earth (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) – cold and dry
  • Phlegmatic – Water (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) – cold and wet

 How the four humours were used historically

Before the 17th Century, the humours provided the structure by which astrology and medicine were practiced. When interpreting a Natal Chart, the astrologer would determine the temperament of the native, or that person’s natural balance between the polarities. Any medical or dietary advice would take into account the individual’s natural temperament as well as the apparent imbalance that could be determined by symptoms and by the chart that was cast to diagnose the patient. 

The animals and plants that are used as food or medicine also have temperament. The way foods or plants are prepared can alter their temperament. For example, cooking heats food, baking dries it, and boiling moistens it. Different activities also alter temperament as well. For example, most exercise is heating, and rest is cooling. 

Other applications of temperament

The principle of temperament also has application to the seasons, planets, and phases of the Moon. The temperament of the seasons is:

  • Spring (Aries, Taurus, Gemini) – hot and wet
  • Summer (Cancer, Leo, Virgo) – hot and dry
  • Autumn (Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius) – cold and dry
  • Winter (Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces) – cold and wet

The sign correspondences with the seasons are based on the Northern Hemisphere. It could be that these sign correspondences are reversed in the Southern Hemisphere. This is a topic that is wide open for astrological research.

The planetary temperament correspondences are not uniform in traditional sources. In William Lilly’s Christian Astrology, they are listed as follows:

  • Saturn – melancholic, cold and dry
  • Jupiter – sanguine, hot and wet
  • Mars – choleric, hot and dry
  • The Sun – hot and dry
  • Venus – phlegm with blood, temperately cold and wet
  • Mercury – variable according to the other planets nearby, but alone, melancholic, cold and dry
  • The Moon – phlegmatic, cold and wet

The temperament of the phases of the Moon are as follows:

  • New Moon to 1st Quarter Moon – hot and wet
  • 1st Quarter Moon to Full Moon – hot and dry
  • Full Moon to 3rd Quarter Moon – cold and dry
  • 3rd Quarter Moon to New Moon – cold and wet

Incorporating the Four Humours in Chart Interpretation

The easiest way to begin incorporating the four humours is to use the two polarities to take the temperature of the chart, as it were. There are various methods for calculating temperament, but a very simple approach is to just count the planets by element. 

We can try this with the chart of the famous celebrity and talk show host, Oprah Winfrey:

 

Every astrologer needs to decide for themselves what planets and chart points to use, but for this example, let’s use the Traditional Planets, the Ascendant and the Midheaven.

  • Sun – Aquarius (Air), hot and wet
  • Moon – Sagittarius (Fire), hot and dry
  • Mercury – Aquarius (Air), hot and wet
  • Venus – Aquarius (Air), hot and wet
  • Mars – Scorpio (Water), cold and wet
  • Jupiter – Gemini (Air), hot and wet
  • Saturn – Scorpio (Water), cold and wet
  • Ascendant – Virgo (Earth), cold and dry
  • Midheaven – Gemini (Air), hot and wet

By a simple count, we have 6 hot/3 cold, 7 wet/2 dry. By this count, Oprah Winfrey is hot, meaning she likes to be busy and active. Hot people also tend to be more extroverted than cold people. She is also very wet. This means that she tends to see how things and people are alike, and that she likes to bring people together. 

As you are experimenting with temperament, you can try adding other things into the mix and see what happens. For example, you may want to add in the season of the Sun, the phase or the Moon, and the Part of Fortune. If you do that, you get:

  • Season – Winter, cold and wet
  • Phase of Moon – 3rd Quarter, cold and wet
  • Part of Fortune – Scorpio, water, cold and wet

Adding these three into the mix would make her even in the hot/cold polarity 6/6 and even more wet with a score of 11/2.

If you want to study and experiment further, there are many other formulas that have been used for calculating temperament in the astrological tradition. As an aspiring astrologer, it is good practice to play with different planets and chart points, and perhaps try different formulas to see what seems to yield the most accurate results for you.

When experimenting with new techniques, the best practice is to start with your own chart, as you know the most about yourself. Then branch out to look at the charts of people you know well, like your friends and family. This way you can see for yourself if the four humours are useful to you in interpreting a chart, 

Conclusion

In this article, we have looked at the four humours and the principles behind them. We have also looked at how they were used historically and have given suggestions for how to begin to incorporate them into your own chart analyses. Hopefully, this will give you the tools you need to start experimenting with the four humours on your own.

 


James Hirlehey is a part-time astrologer at numerologysign.com and spiritual guide from the UK. He has been fascinated with astrology and divination from a young age, and his love for all things spiritual has only increased over time.