Why Ascendants Are So Important In Astrology

In astrology, the ascendant or rising sign is the sign of the Zodiac that was on the eastern horizon at the time and date of the specific chart. The ascendant has different meanings according to different astrologers’ interpretations. Some traditional interpretations are that the ascendant relates to a person’s childhood and upbringing. What is generally agreed is that the ascendant describes how the person deals with stressful or difficult situations. It is what we do when we wish to hide our true nature from unfamiliar things. But more than this, many astrologers believe that the ascendant can also have an impact on a person’s physical appearance and overall health and well-being.

How The Ascendant Is Calculated?

Astrology and Astronomy are very closely related with astrology providing the interpretation and astrology providing the scientific data required to make the interpretation. The actual calculations are incredibly complex that would require more explanation than this article permits. However, with the incredible advances in technology there are many free online calculators that can be used to calculate the ascendant.

It is important to ensure that you use accurate calculation software or if you are calculating your ascendant manually that your calculations are accurate. The ascendant sign changes on average every two hours and therefore if you do not have an accurate time of birth or query then it is very difficult to establish what the ascendant sign is going to be. Just to add to the complication different zodiac signs are on the eastern horizon for different amounts of time. This is due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis and therefore also depends upon the geographical point of reference particularly in relation to the equatorial line.

Why Is the Ascendant So Important?

To fully appreciate the influence of the ascendant on an individual or question being interpreted it is essential to consider a number of other factors. In particular, many astrologers and astrological systems believe that the ascendant can have an influence on the interpretation of the Sun and the Moon. Some even believe that the power of the ascendant is greater than both of these. The rationale behind this is that because the ascendant represents our personality when we are faced with challenging situations it effective overrides our natural personality traits as defined by the Sun and Moon. The Sun relates to the personality traits that we present to the world as a whole and the Moon relates to our emotional responses to situations. It is little wonder that it is considered a very important astrological phenomena.

How Does The Ascendant Affect Different Signs?

Obviously, the Ascendant affects different signs of the Zodiac in different ways. To give some insight into the interpretation of the Ascendant there are some interpretations below based on the different signs, grouped by element, and not taking into account any other planetary placements.

Aries, Leo and Sagittarius are the three signs that are ruled by the element Fire. Those with an Aries Ascendant being natural leaders will often look to take control of situations that are uncomfortable and stressful. Ready to spring into action with confidence and make order out of the chaos. People with a Leo Ascendant will charm their way through any difficulties and will use sheer will-power and ego if required. The Sagittarian Ascendant provides an optimistic outlook on life that will help them through difficult times and their great sense of humour often shines through.

Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn are the three signs that are ruled by the element Earth. Those with a Taurus Ascendant will be cautious and practical when dealing with difficult situations. They are real charmers but as with all earth signs can be more focussed on practicalities than emotions. Virgo Ascendants are perfectionists and worriers and therefore find it difficult to resolve some conflicts. They will seek information out on resolutions to the problems they face and enjoy the challenge of the learning experience it provides. Finally, Capricorn Ascendants will just keep working their way through difficult situations picking themselves up, dusting themselves off and carrying on their way until success is found.

Gemini, Libra and Aquarius are the three signs that are ruled by the element Air. Those with their Ascendant in the three Air signs are naturally gifted communicators. They will not stop communicating with others to overcome difficulties. Gemini will keep up their social calendars and will often be difficult to pin down in unfamiliar situations. Libra Ascendants who find themselves out of their comfort zone will take the gentle approach to problem solving but don’t mistake this for a weakness. Aquarius ascendants who find themselves in uncomfortable situations will often focus on those less fortunate both in their minds to keep things in perspective but also in practical terms.

Finally, the water signs of Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces will often use their hidden depths to deal with difficult and uncomfortable situations. Cancer Ascendants will stay close to home or those who they know best or around family and close friends as a form of self-protection. Scorpio’s who find themselves outside of their comfort zone will be incredibly calculated and will often go to extreme lengths to resolve issues. This is not out of malice but due to their very sensitive nature. Lastly, Piscean tend to withdraw from difficult situations and attempt to distance themselves from trouble. They will be self-sacrificing to a point but if feeling vulnerable will fight for their lives so to speak.

Using The Power Of Your Ascendant

Although, at first glance it may seem that the Ascendant has a number of negative undertones it is actually very beneficial to understand the impact your ascendant is having on your personality and behaviour. Every ascendant sign provides the key to where you can find strength in your personality to deal with uncomfortable situations especially if they are out of your control. By harnessing the power of your ascendant sign you can avoid some of the less positive personality traits that can be associated with it.

In practical terms, the majority of people do not thrive on change, uncertainty and being outside of their comfort zone. Of course there are exceptions to these rules but most people want to live a calm, stress free life even if it is not practical in real times to achieve this goal. Difficult situations are often caused by influences outside of our control. By understanding how best you can deal with such situations given your unique personality profile and traits you will find that when you do encounter difficulties they are less stressful and more quickly resolved than before.