Astrology, Psychology and the Four Elements

Astrology divides up the 12 signs into Four elements - Fire, Earth, Air and Water. Each of the elements contains three signs and they are also referred to as the triplicities. The four elements are known in psychological astrology as the 'four functions' which govern the human psyche. Each element has a specific way of manifesting energy. Four ways of understanding the world, and four ways of perceiving life. The element of Fire is 'intuitive', it symbolizes the initial spark of inspiration, creativity, and future vision. Earth rules the 'senses', and concerns itself with maintaining and organizing the material aspects of life. Air is the 'thinking' element, it can logically analyse information and develop a theoretical understanding. The Water element dominates 'feeling' and is the nurturing and caring component in life, it also refers to the spiritual aspect of life.

The elements in astrology correspond to the basic temperament or the "psychological makeup" of an individual. When a planet is in one of the elements (Fire, Earth, Air, and Water) the planet will express itself through that element. We form ourselves through Earth, and we find our vitality, optimism, and aliveness through Fire. Through Air is how we socialize and 'circulate' and communicate. The emotional and spiritual connection to life is symbolized by Water, and here we can nourish and heal our souls from within. No person is 'wholly' one element we are all a mixture of the different elements. We will view the world from our own unique elemental makeup contained within the natal chart.

The Fire signs

Aries, Leo, Sagittarius: The fire signs respond to life in active, outgoing, confident, spontaneous, energetic, and enthusiastic ways. A joy for life! Fire signs inspire others with their own optimism. Fire is direct, honest, warm, and self interested. The element of Fire is volatile and unpredictable. Fire embodies strength of purpose or meaning in life. Planets placed in fire signs symbolize energy that is incautious and impels the individual to constant movement and action.

The Earth signs

Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn: The Earth signs respond to life in a practical, physical, enduring way, they are concerned with the material aspects of living. Earth signs provide the foundation needed to establish something tangible. Earthy individuals are patient, responsible, and they work hard and plan carefully. Planets placed in earth signs will express themselves in a grounded way. Earth holds firm and gives form to the spirit, it takes no risks and resists change. Earth takes comfort in what is known and dependable.

The Air signs

Gemini, Libra, Aquarius: The air signs respond to life by accumulating information, and appear detached because they are analytical rather than emotional in situations. The air group are intellectually orientated. The Air signs direct by interaction, circulation, socialization. Planets in Air relate intellectually even the Moon (a water planet) in air will talk about emotions rather than actually feeling them. The element of Air represents the universal mind, facts, observations, rationalizing, and making judgements.

The Water signs

Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces. The water signs respond to life in an emotional, sensitive, and instinctive way. Water 'feels' and are oversensitive and overprotective. A planet in water is subdued, the planet becomes more inwardly directed, and is emotional in expression.