Basics of Astrology | A Beginner-Friendly Guide to Understanding the Stars

New to astrology? This beginner-friendly guide breaks down the basics of signs, planets, and houses so you can start reading your birth chart with confidence.

ASTROLOGY

Jodie Jones

4/23/20252 min read

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Astrology doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll break down the basics — from zodiac signs and planetary rulers to houses and elements — so you can start interpreting your birth chart with clarity and curiosity.

Astrology is an ancient tool for self-discovery and understanding the cosmic influences on our lives. If you’ve ever wondered why you resonate so much with your zodiac sign (or why you don’t), it’s because there’s so much more to astrology than just your sun sign.

Sun, Moon, and Rising Signs: Your Big Three

Your sun, moon, and rising signs make up the core of your astrological identity.

  • ☀️ Sun Sign: This represents your core self, your personality, and what drives you. It’s the sign most people know about themselves.

  • 🌙 Moon Sign: This governs your emotions, intuition, and inner world. It reflects how you process feelings and what makes you feel secure.

  • ✨ Rising (Ascendant) Sign: This is the mask you present to the world, how others perceive you and your approach to new experiences.

Understanding your Big Three offers a deeper look into who you are beyond just your sun sign.

The Planets: Cosmic Influences in Your Life

Each planet in astrology governs a different aspect of life. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • ☀️ Sun – Your identity and life force.

  • 🌙 Moon – Your emotions and subconscious.

  • 🗣 Mercury – Communication and thought processes.

  • 💖 Venus – Love, relationships, and beauty.

  • 🔥 Mars – Drive, ambition, and passion.

  • 🍀 Jupiter – Growth, abundance, and luck.

  • ⏳ Saturn – Discipline, responsibility, and life lessons.

  • ⚡ Uranus – Innovation, change, and rebellion.

  • 🌊 Neptune – Dreams, spirituality, and intuition.

  • 💀 Pluto – Transformation, power, and deep subconscious shifts.

The 12 Houses: Where It All Plays Out

The zodiac wheel is divided into 12 houses, each ruling different areas of life. Think of them as the stage where the planets express themselves.

  1. Self & Identity – Your personality and outward expression.

  2. Values & Finances – What you own and what you value.

  3. Communication & Learning – How you think, speak, and connect.

  4. Home & Family – Your roots and emotional foundation.

  5. Creativity & Pleasure – Romance, hobbies, and self-expression.

  6. Health & Routine – Daily life, wellness, and service to others.

  7. Relationships & Partnerships – Romantic and business partnerships.

  8. Transformation & Power – Deep change, intimacy, and shared resources.

  9. Higher Learning & Travel – Knowledge, philosophy, and adventure.

  10. Career & Public Life – Your ambitions and public image.

  11. Community & Social Circle – Friendships, groups, and aspirations.

  12. Spirituality & the Subconscious – Mysticism, solitude, and dreams.

Why It All Matters?

Astrology isn’t about predicting the future — it’s about self-awareness. Understanding your chart helps you navigate life with clarity and purpose. It highlights strengths, challenges, and growth opportunities, allowing you to work with your natural rhythms instead of against them.

Ready to Go Deeper?

This is just the beginning! If you're interested in astrology and how it relates to your life, subscribe below for more information and guidance on understanding your astrological chart. For a personal reading, check out the services page. Let’s unlock the stars together!