Mindful Heart Astrology: Aquarius

The Water-Bearer

Our 11th sign of the Zodiac is Aquarius, the Water-Bearer. The third of our Air signs, Aquarius is often mistakenly referred to as a water sign. The glyph itself appears as two horizontal wavy lines, one on top of the other.  The popular interpretation indicates it represents two waves of water. However, as with many things in Astrology, there is always a deeper or secondary meaning. It has also been explained as the wind above the water, or waters above and waters below, signifying the separation of heaven and earth or our common and divine nature.

Regardless of how one interprets the glyph, Aquarius is very much an Air sign reflecting energies directed towards communication and connection. The manner and degree to which these energies manifest, is a direct result of the planetary associations and specific placements within a horoscope.

Aquarius natives tend to be somewhat visionary and original in their thinking. They are often progressive and innovative, generating unique and unconventional ideas, which is the basis for their association with technology and futuristic pursuits. Thomas Edison for example, an Aquarian, was strongly represented these characteristics. He was at times labelled an eccentric for his visionary thinking, but he has certainly been much appreciated for the invention of the incandescent lightbulb.

Social Justice and Humanitarianism

Other Aquarian traits include an independent and compassionate nature with a concern for social justice and humanitarian causes. Amal (Alamuddin) Clooney is one such native. As a Barrister she specializes in international law and human rights, working to manifest the best of Aquarian intent. She is often in the news shining a spotlight on issues that require the notice and attention of the greater collective.

Aquarius is the natural ruler of the 11th House.  In this domain we find: friendship; society; social organizations; politics; groups; career income; and hopes or wishes. While on the surface Edison and Clooney appear to have little in common, both of their careers have in some way played out on the world stage with positive implications for society (or humanity) as a whole. In order to achieve their goals, they each would have had to employ an intellectual approach with a degree of rational detachment, particularly in response to any intense opposition. The efforts of both individuals have been directed towards improving circumstances for individuals and broader groups.

Synthesizing Uranus and Saturn

Another interesting fact about Aquarius is its two-planet rulership. Saturn is considered the medieval ruler and Uranus the modern ruler. Aquarius is nothing if it isn’t different, and these planets seem an unlikely pairing. Previously we have explored Saturn as the ruler of Capricorn, referencing qualities such as structure, boundaries, time, responsibility, and tradition. Uranus on the other hand represents freedom, independence, innovation, the unusual, and structure-shattering. In some charts one of these planets with its defining characteristics may be more strongly represented than the other. However, there is often a kind of synthesis between the two that operates below the surface of visible personalities.

Consider that when combined, Saturn and Uranus together suggest a different type of structure or method of operation.  Breaking down barriers, busting through tradition, and using innovation to create a sense of freedom or a different type of structure in the future, they appear to be quite the “dynamic duo”. Let’s use the DC Comics partnership of Batman and Robin…the “Dynamic Duo”…to illustrate this point. Consider Robin is the one with a more traditional and fixed view of things, always seeming to reference the current knowledge, rule or guideline. Batman is more innovative in his approach, looking outside known quantities, unrestricted by traditionally held norms. By the same token, he did not discard his perceived responsibility, but rather worked by different means to ensure that he fulfilled it.

Unique and Non-traditional

Where Aquarius appears in our chart, by planet and house, suggests the area of our lives where our approach is considered somewhat unique or non-traditional. For example, Aquarius on the cusp of the 9th House might suggest a different approach to higher learning, or a desire to travel to obscure foreign destinations, or even a unique philosophy. The traditional path of a University education may not be the route chosen by such an individual. Rather their course of study could represent something considered counter-culture, such as Astrology. Alternatively, a Degree or level of competency in their chosen field may be achieved through the internet within a distance learning platform, rather than traditional bricks and mortar classroom lectures.

Aquarian traits reflect what makes us uniquely individual. It is important, I think, for each of us to embrace our own uniqueness while appreciating what is different in others. Diversity is the “stuff of life” and a quality that adds texture and richness to our experience on planet earth.

“Be Kind to One Another”

For further evidence of what it means to exemplify the positives of this sign, perhaps take in an episode of The Ellen De Generes Show. Ellen, an Aquarius, can be aptly described as a caring and compassionate humanitarian. She has a unique view point, a sense of humour, and is actively supportive of many causes and varied communities.  I love her message which she sums up in her final words of each show.  It seems appropriate that I close this article with her phrase…”Be kind to one another”.

~ Jayne Logan