When you think about your zodiac sign, you’re likely identifying your sun sign (Leo, Aries, Taurus, etc.). This is the sign you pick on quizzes to let you know which Bridgerton character you are or what your side hustle should be based on your personality traits. When you hear “Leo,” you might think, “I’m creative and a little bossy, and I crave the spotlight.” These things may be true (OK, they’re definitely true for me), but it still only gives you a vague sense of who you are. Think of it this way: Daniel Radcliffe and Jennifer Lopez are both Leos, but they’re also wildly different. In order to get a more complete picture of your personality, you have to dive into big three astrology.
Your big three refers to your sun, moon, and rising (or ascendant) placements on your natal chart. Your natal chart is where the planets, moon, and sun were aligned in the sky at the time, date, and location of your birth. Plugging this information into a free calculator will tell you your natal chart in seconds. Mine shows that my moon sign is Gemini and my rising sign is Aries. So, what exactly does this mean?
Well, your moon sign represents the emotional or subconscious self. Geminis, Libras, and Aquariuses are air signs, so if your moon is in one of those, then you tend to approach emotions in a more logical way while following the flow of life. Moons in the fire signs (Aries, Leo, or Sagittarius) tend to be emotional thrill-seekers, seeking creativity and excitement, whereas moons in the earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, or Capricorn) enjoy emotional stability and feel at peace with routine and structure. Moons in the water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, or Pisces) are motivated by intuition and are often spiritual and in tune with their emotions.
Your rising sign represents the way people perceive you. This reflects the energy you bring to your personality and your life. Mine is in Aries, a fire sign, which means they may see my creativity, passion, boldness, and extroverted personality first. Water signs are more often perceived as sensitive and nurturing; earth signs are bolder, give good advice, and are reliable and successful; and air signs are quick-witted communicators, professionals, and problem solvers.
Examining your big three can give you more insight into your personality, the people you gel best with, your romantic needs, and more. Use an online birth chart calculator or reach out to an astrologist if you’re interested in really taking a deep dive into your chart.
