Zodiac Signs - Astrology Sign, 12 Zodiac Signs Dates, Meanings

Astrology, focuses on a person’s astrological or zodiac sign, to a large extent. There are 12 Zodiac Signs, which are believed to be star-constellations in the sky. Each sign has different mythological stories connected to it, and each one represents a prime energy of consciousness.

According to Western astrology, the zodiac signs are the twelve 30° sectors of the ecliptic, i.e. the plane that the Sun follows. The approximate dates calculated for the Zodiac signs (starting from Aries) are-
Aries from March 21-April 19; Taurus from April 20-May 20; Gemini from May 21-June 20; Cancerfrom June 21-July 22; Leo from July 23-August 22; Virgo from August 23-September 22; Libra from September 23-October 22; Scorpio from October 23-November 21; Sagittarius from November 22-December 21, Capricorn is from December 22- January 19; AquariusAqurius is from January 20 to February 18; and Pisces from February 19 to March 20.

Each zodiac sign is represented by a special ‘symbol’- Aries is the Ram, Taurus is the Bull, Gemini is represented by the Twins, Cancer is the Crab, Leo is the Lion, Virgo is the Virgin, Libra is represented by the Scales, Scorpio is the Scorpion, Sagittarius is the Archer or the Centaur, Capricorn is the Goat, Aquarius is the Water Bearer, and Pisces is represented by the (Two) Fish.

Each of the 12 zodiac signs belongs to one of the four elements – Air, Fire, Water and Earth. These elements represent an essential type of energy that is primal in each one of us. They help describe the unique personality types associated with zodiac signs, as they exhibit profound influence on basic character traits, emotions, and behaviours of people. The astrology elements are as important to the characteristics and personality traits of a person as is their zodiac sun sign. Astrologers can guide you by analysing which element your zodiac belongs to. This in turn will help you gain clarity and better understanding about the positive and the negative aspects of yourself, as well as learn about your potential.

The 4 elements and their influence on the signs have been briefly explained below-

Water Signs- The Water signs tend to be exceptionally emotional and sensitive. They are highly intuitive and they can be as mysterious. Water signs love profound conversations and intimacy. As their element suggests, the water signs can be quite fragile and, so, constantly seek security in relationships. The Water Signs are: Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces.

Fire Signs- The Fire signs tend to be passionate and dynamic, yet temperamental. They get angry just as quickly as fire catches on in a dry forest, but they also forgive easily. They are adventurous and full of energy. They inspire others with their physical strength. Fire signs are intelligent, self- aware, creative and idealistic people. The Fire Signs are: Aries, Leo and Sagittarius.

Earth Signs- As their element suggests, the Earth signs are ‘grounded’ and encourage people around them to be ‘down to earth’ as well. They are mostly conservative and realistic, and can also be quite emotional. They are loyal and stable, and they support their loved ones even when the times get rough. While on one hand they can be quite practical, at times they often get materialistic. The Earth Signs are: Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn.

Air Signs- The Air signs are driven by rationality. They are social, friendly, and love conversing with others. They are the thinkers in the zodiacal circle, being intellectual and analytical. They love philosophical discussions, social gatherings and good books. Their main goal is to follow their own creative and liberating ideas, and so, as the air around us, it can be hard for these signs to ‘fit-in’ in their surroundings. The Air Signs are: Gemini, Libra and Aquarius.

There are basically two systems to determine the planets’ movement through the Zodiacal circle. One is the Sidereal Zodiac, and the other is the Tropical Zodiac. The Sidereal Zodiac uses the North Star as the point of departure, while the Tropical Zodiac measures the movement from the Sun's position on the ecliptic on the first day of spring. Western Astrologers mostly follow the Tropical Zodiac, while Vedic Astrologers follow the Sidereal Zodiac.