The Zodiac Signs
We all know our Sun sign—for example, “I am a Libra”—and sometimes our rising sign as well. But what do these concepts really mean? Here, I offer a brief description of the 12 zodiac signs and the rising sign.
Aries
Among the Egyptians, the first sign was represented either by a head or a ram. The head symbolizes a desire to charge forward—headfirst—not necessarily recklessly or without thought, but as someone willing to take risks in life, to challenge the status quo, to try new things, move forward, create, or experience the unknown.
Aries encourages us not to rest on our laurels, to dare to keep moving forward, even if it means giving up some comfort or the security of what is already working.
How a natal chart study can help an Aries
This life force and taste for adventure may have been received differently within the family: some Aries may have been encouraged with phrases like “Go for it, my son, you’re the best!”, while others may have been restrained by warnings such as “Be careful!”, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush”, or “You can’t sit still!”.
A natal chart can reveal an Aries’ blockages, often linked to hidden anxieties and unconscious loyalties. Studying the chart helps identify where they can bring movement back into their life, take risks with new ventures or projects, and learn how to make room for the unexpected and the unknown.
Phrixus Riding a Ram
Taurus
This sign invites us to discover what allows us to feel secure so that we can truly “taste” life. It is a very physical sign, grounded in reality and in nature, which needs to rely on its five senses and pay attention to bodily sensations. Beauty is also a very important need, but it can take many forms—from the beauty of nature, to a well-decorated interior, a sports car, or, of course, the attractiveness of a romantic partner.
Lesser known is that Taurus is also the sacred cow, the one that nourishes and ensures the conditions necessary for life. People born under this sign often have a remarkable talent for supporting and nurturing the essential needs of others.
Taurus may appear to be more interested in money than some other signs, but this is primarily to ensure security or to bring beauty into their life. Sometimes accused of materialism, Taurus’ true purpose is to constantly remind us of the “here and now”: the Earth is an Eden-like garden, and it is up to us to enjoy it. At the same time, Taurus makes sure to secure the conditions needed to appreciate life, avoiding both financial worries and excessive ambitions.
How a natal chart study can help a Taurus
Taurus can lose touch with themselves when a hectic lifestyle and the need for material success prevent them from connecting with their body, their five senses, and simply enjoying the moment and life. The natal chart can reveal what hinders a Taurus’ self-confidence, by highlighting difficulties in grounding themselves in bodily experience and allowing themselves to slow down in order to appreciate earthly life.
Egyptian Taurus: Apis
Gemini
Watch a butterfly flitting from flower to flower, and you’ll get a first glimpse of Gemini: it moves from one bloom to another, never staying long in one place. This sign embodies curiosity of mind. If Taurus tastes life, Gemini studies it in all its forms, for it is through the environment that they come to know themselves. Their twin is the other, whoever that may be, who allows them to see themselves reflected or, on the contrary, to distinguish themselves.
How a natal chart study can help a Gemini
Gemini will lose self-confidence if forced to take on responsibilities that restrict their freedom and curiosity. Whatever studies they pursue or career they choose, they need to preserve a space for freedom and novelty, so that they remain the eternal youth of the zodiac, the puer aeternus. The natal chart can reveal not only the reasons why Gemini feels compelled to play the enemy of the eternal youth—the responsible, constraining father—but also the areas where they can remain an eternal adolescent without fear of hindering their development.
Shu and Tefnut, the Royal Twins of Egyptian Mythology
Cancer
Many preconceived notions circulate about the three water signs, which govern emotions: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces.
According to Wikipedia, Cancer “has a strong family spirit, and its childlike soul makes it an endearing and dreamy being. Impressionable, Cancer is sensitive to changes in atmosphere.” As a result, Cancer is often associated with a fragile and sensitive creature, devoted to caring for others.
Yes, perhaps, but certainly not only that…
In the zodiac, Cancer is the sign of self-development—a time to withdraw inwardly and give our inner self and talents the space to grow. It is therefore a sign where listening to oneself and one’s needs is fundamental. It is about putting yourself first, understanding what you truly need, taking care of yourself and nurturing relationships that help you flourish, so that you can later shine and engage with the world.
Later on, of course, Cancer becomes highly skilled at giving to others what they have granted themselves, and at caring for those in need with immense tact and delicacy.
Comment l'étude du natal chart peut aider le Cancer
Cancer can lose self-confidence if, despite their natural talents, they have focused too much on others and lost themselves along the way. They may also struggle in a life that prioritizes competition and social success, preventing them from recharging and listening to their inner self. Studying the natal chart can reveal what has diverted Cancer from self-attunement, and help them find the space to turn inward and give themselves what is truly good and fulfilling.

Leo
King of the savannah, crowned with his golden mane, the Lion’s majesty speaks for itself. Governed by the Sun, the issues of personal identity and self-confidence are therefore central and paramount for this sign.
Leo is associated with play. Children learn to take on different identities by “pretending,” and Leo loves to pretend — it allows them to test their identity, their solar core. You’ll often find Leo playing a role, literally or figuratively. They can embody any destiny, yet deep down, they are always seeking their true authenticity.
Leo is called to shine like the Sun — radiant, without hiding, without intermediaries — yet also to warm others with their light. When Leo shines naturally, their generosity flows freely, and their heart of gold reveals itself.
Comment
l'étude du natal chart peut aider le Lion
The birth chart helps us understand why Leo may refuse to shine, choosing instead to stay in the shadows — or why they struggle to shine, mistaking which talents would truly help them do so. Leo’s self-confidence can only grow by developing their own gifts and sharing them boldly with the world, without fear or false modesty.

Virgo
In ancient times, “the Virgin” was the one who belonged to no one. Purity is a notion common to all definitions of the word virgin, yet this purity is not chastity. Athena and Artemis were both virgin goddesses; and while Athena never had a lover, Artemis did. But neither of them married or had children — they belonged only to themselves, their choices uninfluenced by any husband or child.
In the zodiac, Virgo prepares us for social and romantic relationships by helping us make a clear distinction between ourselves and others. This sign is capable of establishing clear and firm boundaries, preventing others from overwhelming them and avoiding confusion between their own needs and those of others. It is under these conditions that Virgo can truly be of service, be helpful—something they particularly cherish—without putting themselves at risk.
This need for differentiation then extends to all areas of Virgo’s life: they sort, classify, study, compare, and label. At times, they may appear rigid or perfectionistic, or even a workaholic. But it is their mission to bring order to the world and to themselves, standing against chaos.
Comment l'étude du natal chart peut aider la Vierge
Virgo is a sign that can struggle to find natural self-confidence, and may sometimes look with envy at its zodiac cousin, Leo. The natal chart can reveal whether Virgo is in an overly defensive stance, fearful of chaos and being overwhelmed by others, or whether certain aspects of the chart push them to dedicate themselves to others without establishing clear boundaries. It is by feeling protected and clear about their limits that Virgo can open up to others and manage tendencies toward anxiety or perfectionism.
Hermes, who rules over Virgo
Libra
In descriptions of Libra, the word “indecisive” often appears. Yet it is unfair to reproach this sign for what is actually part of its richness. Yes, Libra does not rush headlong to defend their opinion or that of a loved one, but instead listens, forms an idea, hesitates, and strives to be as fair as possible. They seek harmony in the world and between people, which indeed sometimes requires not having a firmly fixed point of view.
Libra is the sign that invites us to engage in partnership and social relationships. Governed by Venus, this sign seeks harmony in its relationships and strives to avoid conflict. Like Taurus, Libra also needs beauty for balance, whether this beauty comes from the physical world or the realm of the mind, depending on their choices.
But Libra must not forget its mission: in guiding us through relationships, it must first and foremost uphold the principle of justice (hence its symbol). I do not have the right to exploit another for my personal gratification, nor do I have the right to allow myself to be treated as an object by someone else.
How a natal chart study can help a Libra
Libra needs a living environment that reflects Venusian values. If confronted with conflict, disrespectful people, or an unattractive environment, they may lose all self-confidence. The natal chart can also reveal whether Libra excessively avoids discord, preventing themselves from speaking up, and, most importantly, help identify why asserting themselves might be difficult.

Scorpio
Scorpio is a creature of the desert, whose shimmering black shell under the sun must have made a strong impression on the ancient Egyptians—not to mention its venom. Often hidden beneath its shell, it can sometimes seem impervious to life’s blows, when in fact it feels things far more intensely than other signs.
The sting of the desert Egyptian scorpions was deadly, but the water scorpions had no stinger. It is thus that one of the Egyptian goddesses associated with healing and magic was a stingerless scorpion, Serket. This sign has always been symbolically linked to death and rebirth, magic, and, more generally, to what requires humans to open themselves to other realities. Scorpio observes the invisible and sees what binds us: our childhood and family conditioning, our desires, and, above all, our shadow.
A vast task requires Scorpio to have unmatched strength of character, which can sometimes be accompanied by defensive behaviors that may seem offensive to others—little barbs, a need for solitude, lack of tact, or even aggression—but are necessary for them to stay the course.
How a natal study can help a Scorpio
A specialist of invisible depths, Scorpio must not forget to resurface and shine. This is where the natal chart proves invaluable, revealing Scorpio’s talents and the areas in which they can stand out, emerge from hiding, and dare to move into the light.
Serket
Sagittarius
The ninth sign is governed by Jupiter (Zeus) and shares some of his traits, such as a love of adventure and travel, whether physical or intellectual. Sagittarius may wish to travel the world or simply stay at home exploring Hindu mythology.
Like Zeus, Sagittarius sees from above: sometimes less interested in details, they have a unique ability to grasp the big picture, provide a synthesis, and connect different fields of study. The verb “to connect” suits them perfectly: they love bringing people together, uniting, and creating groups. Social acceptance is important to Sagittarius—they cannot imagine life without belonging to a group or adopting a well-defined social identity.
Known for their unmatched optimism, Sagittarius can sometimes underestimate difficulties or refuse to acknowledge them.
Comment l'étude du natal chart peut aider le Sagittaire
Sagittarius may need support when they lose their “faith”, meaning their natural optimism and belief in their destiny. The natal chart can reveal what undermines their self-confidence and prevents them from finding their place in society. They may also need guidance when, having underestimated or even denied the challenges of a project, they are confronted with them and feel stuck. The natal chart can indicate where they need to take responsibility and how to better accept the reality principle.
Zeus
Capricorn
Associated with the spine and bones, Capricorn is a sign that seeks to stand tall and hold themselves upright within the society in which they live.
This means, on one hand, that Capricorn seeks to play a structuring role, much like a father in the family. They want to be respected, to be someone others can rely on, and also to build lasting structures.
Standing tall also means, for Capricorn, embracing moments of solitude: they will not bend to please others, nor compromise themselves, and they will fully stand by what they believe is right and valuable for the collective.
This sign may forego many pleasures and comforts in order to fulfill what they see as their mission: embodying a form of authority based on respect for their ex
How a natal chart study can help a Capricorn
Focused on their mission—or even their ambition—Capricorn may completely neglect their inner life and fail to listen to their needs and instincts. They are often too demanding of themselves, which can take a toll on their body. In working for the collective, they risk forgetting to let their talents and personality shine. The natal chart can show Capricorn where they can lighten their responsibilities, add some ease to their life, and dare to develop their own talents.
The sea-goat, symbol of Capricorn
Aquarius
A sign of brotherhood, Aquarius carries ideals reminiscent of the motto of the French Republic (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity). Deeply idealistic, they have a vision for humanity and would most of all love to bring it to life. However, Aquarius can underestimate the individual, the particular, and personal needs, focusing only on the collective. By the same token, they may neglect their own desires and needs.
Like Prometheus, who brought fire to humanity, or Athena, who taught them agriculture, Aquarius is one who wants to lighten the burdens of their fellow humans and strives to build the societal structures that would help achieve this.
How a natal chart study can help an Aquarius
Aquarius may refuse to see their own shadow—or that of others—due to excessive idealism. Yet, inevitably, their shadow catches up with them, and if they remain blind to it, it can cause emotional suffering and undermine their self-confidence or relationships. The natal chart helps Aquarius learn more about themselves and reconnect with their individuality and personal needs, by temporarily stepping back from their collective aspirations.
Prometheus
Pisces
The symbolism of the sign is eloquent: we leave solid ground behind and enter an aquatic world, without limits or boundaries, in which Pisces moves with grace.
Pisces may therefore struggle with the earthly world, feeling ill-suited to it or constrained and restricted by it. Yet, by contrast, Pisces swims far more easily than the other signs in the seas of imagination, the collective unconscious, the arts, and compassion. This sensitivity to others can sometimes be detrimental to Pisces, leading to certain sacrifices or, on the contrary, to the rejection of their own emotions, out of fear of being overwhelmed.
While Pisces’ sensitivity may render them vulnerable, they also possess an extraordinary capacity for adaptation, allowing them to navigate their ocean depths without a compass.
How a natal chart can help a Pisces
Pisces may lack self-confidence because the world as perceived through our five senses does not always reflect their personal reality. They sense and feel things that society tends to overlook, and they may easily confuse their imagination and emotional sensitivity with a lack of structure, framework, or direction. They readily complain about the ‘blur’ behind which the meaning of their life — and of life itself — seems to hide. The natal chart can help Pisces identify the abilities they can rely on in order to better adapt to the earthly world. But it is also a way for Pisces to make constructive use of their natural talents and sense of service, without sacrificing themselves or denying who they are. For Pisces, it is an excellent way to fully embrace their true nature.

Rising sign
To determine one’s Ascendant, it is necessary to know the exact time of birth. Unlike the Sun, which remains in the same degree of a zodiac sign for an entire day, the Ascendant changes very quickly. It is the sign that appears to be rising on the horizon at the moment of birth (the intersection of the ecliptic and the horizon).
Our Ascendant concerns the way we present ourselves to the world, the mask we wear in social interactions and in unfamiliar situations. Unlike the Sun, it does not represent our deep identity and is not meant to be at the core of the Self.
Yet the Ascendant is far from being merely superficial, that is, simply the appearance we present. It is also an essential guide to follow in order to allow the Sun to shine. For example, for a Pisces with a Libra Ascendant, the core of the identity—the Pisces—will be expressed if the individual is able to honor the values of Libra: harmony and beauty, in particular. This is how they will differ from a Pisces with an Aries Ascendant, who will need to demonstrate assertiveness and initiative in order to truly live that same Pisces Sun authentically.
In the interpretation of a natal chart, great importance is thus given to the Sun, of course, but also to the Ascendant as a guide, and to the Moon, since it governs the emotions.