It’s enjoyable to know your astrological sign, but the field of astrology is extensive, and if you want to start learning about things other than your daily horoscope, then comprehending the astrological elements is crucial. Every zodiac sign is dominated by one of the four elements, and knowing which element dominates yours is a terrific way to begin exploring the zodiac and establishing new connections, especially once you begin delving into your astrological birth chart.
The attributes and energy of the 12 zodiac signs are all unique, although they do share certain general commonalities, which may be seen by looking at how the signs are classified. They are split into three astrological modalities after being divided into two polarities (masculine and feminine) (cardinal, fixed, and mutable). Finally, in astrology, the signs are split into four groupings of components, the most important of which is the zodiac. Fire, earth, air, and water are the four elements, and they each have their manner of expressing their energy.
“The world [of astrology] is made up of four interconnected elements.” “You can’t exist without the other,” says astrologer Lisa Stardust to Bustle. “[Zodiac] signs are classified and described using elements.” The elements work together to balance each other out, and their strengths and weaknesses are distributed evenly throughout the zodiac, creating a fascinating cosmic web of connectivity. Learning about the elements can help you understand the zodiac on a whole new level — and it can also help you understand your sign a little better. Here’s a breakdown of the four astrological elements, the signs they govern, and how they work.
Fire Warning Signs
Sagittarius, Leo, and Aries
The element of fire is the spirit; it is passionate, powerful, and feisty. Fire signs tend to lead with their spirits and strong wills, and they have a loud sense of confidence that distinguishes them from the other signs. They’re daring and active, and they use their enthusiasm to interact with the world around them. Because they prefer to let their passion drive their actions and decisions, fire energy is known for being a little more impulsive than the other elements — but some would say that this simply makes them more fascinating to be around.
“Aries brings the realization of a vision, Leo is the construction of the vision, and Sagittarius is the intellectual who evaluates the dream,” Stardust adds. Fire signs may have fast tempers and huge personalities, but they can always be counted on to lift your spirits and brighten your day.
Signs of the Earth
Capricorn, Virgo, and Taurus
Because the earth is the physical realm’s element, this energy emphasizes sensory experiences and being present in the now. Its energy is more realistic, grounded, and oriented to the material world than the other signs, which is why earth signs are typically associated with financial success. They deal with the world with practicality, making decisions based on what makes sense rather than being carried up in passion, emotion, or overthinking, as the other elements do.
“The builders are the Earth signs,” Stardust explains. “Tauruses are the artists who do the necessary work, Virgos develop ideas with their analytical minds and have the patience to see things through, and Capricorns are known to be introspective about the steps made as they finish the jobs at hand.” While an earth sign’s reasoning sometimes causes them to be a little more set in their ways than others, these signs are among the most stable and dependable of the zodiac.
Signs in the Air
Aquarius, Gemini, and Libra
Because air is the element of the mind, these signs tend to spend more time in their brains, thinking about life on a higher level than the rest of the zodiac. Because air energy is particularly sociable and communication-oriented, these signs enjoy chatting, gossiping, and connecting with people. They tend to consider things intellectually before making decisions and are more emotionally distant since they relate to things through reasoning.
Water Symbols
Pisces, Scorpio, and Cancer
The element of the heart is water. This element is all about our sensitive sides, just as the liquid tears of love or sadness – which is why water signs prefer to behave from a spiritual place than the rest of the gang. Water signs have exceptionally deep feelings and may naturally pick up on the emotions of others. They are also more in tune with their intuition and may be more inclined to engage in spiritual pursuits.