Planets in a Natal Chart

The planets are the most important part of an astrological chart. The zodiac signs give them color and nuance, spelling out how the planets will be expressed in the different sections, or houses, of the chart. Without the planets, a birth chart is meaningless.

Planets in astrology were first thought of in ancient times as the will of gods. Modern-day astrologers believe the planets represent basic impulses, urges, or drives played out through different parts of our psyche, or our conscious and unconscious self. Put another way, the drives in each of us seek expression through our experiences. These lead to personal fulfullment.

No one can prove for certain how the planets' powers influence us. Some think the planets affect human biology or biochemistry through gravitational pull, electromagnetism, radiation, or radio waves. A few mention the effects of Sun spots. Still others think the planets mirror basic organizing principles that touch everthing in the universe. Chinese astrology sees the planets connected with the basic forces of nature. Regardless of theory, many sbscribe to the idea that cosmic clocks have a direct influence on our life.

If plants and animals can be influenced by the tides and the time of year, why not humans as well?

Inner Planets of Astrology

The inner planets - the Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn - are associated with our individual identity and concerns.

Outer Planets of Astrology

The outer planets include Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto and symbolize our place in the bigger picture of life.