Did You Know Your Zodiac Sign Belongs To A Family Of Signs?

The art of astrology is a deeply complex pattern of structure and symbolism. If you're an avid horoscope reader, you may know by now that checking only your sun sign is just the tip of the iceberg. We all have multiple signs, planets, houses, and transits that intricately create the layers of who we all are. Each zodiac sign, however, is classified under a system of elements that give life to its core values and motivating energies. These element groups act as families that organize the signs by their principal operating systems, motivations, and behavior. 

According to the AstroTwins, these element groups are also found in nature and are known as fire, earth, water, and air. These elements are also the four building blocks of our world and represent distinct characteristics found in nature (via New York Post). Together they represent the basis of this incredibly complex yet archetypal reality. The members organized within each element also share fundamental similarities with each other and act as complementary or even compatible partners.

Fire is the first element group of the zodiac as it commences the astrological calendar with a bang representing the creation of new life, destruction, the shining of light, and courageousness. Identical twins and professional astrologers, the AstroTwins, consider these signs as bold initiators, passionate, and even temperamental. This includes Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius, all of which embody boldness, confidence, and an untamed fearless spirit. However, because of their fiery nature, they can also just as easily experience burnout, impulsiveness, and hotheadedness if not careful. Fire is also a representation of yang energy, giving them a more active or outward-facing energy similar to the air signs who are also a manifestation of yang energy (via AstroStyle).

The air elemental is distinguished by its communicative nature, need for social interaction, and intellectual stamina (via Café Astrology). These signs include Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius, all of which share the distinct gift of being great conversationalists and creative generators as they operate from a place of mental stimulation. However, as social as these signs can be, they can also be equally aloof or detached because of their need to constantly experience different ideas, perceptions, and personalities. As quickly as they appear in your life, they can disappear. "Gone like the wind" is their motto. 

The ying side of the zodiac represents the signs that are more internal, feminine, and cautious in nature, per Astrology Library. Earth signs, in particular, represent stability, foundational success, and practicality. These signs include Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn, all of which are equally grounded, dependable, and responsibly proactive individuals. All earth signs are motivated to seek or create economic resources, provide stability, and are dedicated to rock-solid principles or organizations. Without them, we would be boundless, free-floating, and without structure. In the same respect, these signs can also become stubborn, unimaginative, and closed-minded when not in balance.

Their sister signs are also grouped under the ying energy and are represented by water. According to astrologer Kyle Thomas at New York Post, these signs are deeply intuitive because they tend to pick up on and carry energy. They are manifested as Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces, all of which share the unique ability to be deeply emotional, empathetic, creative, and imaginative. In addition, water as an energy has a fluidity that travels deep into spaces unknown, giving these signs the gift of psychic awareness and intense perceptiveness. When out of balance, however, there can be a tendency to manipulate, take things too personally, or become easily influenced and depressed. Nevertheless, they are the gentle healers of the zodiac, and we can thank them for the depths they will go to for others.