Understanding Aspects In Your Natal Chart
Let’s kick this off with a warning, because who doesn’t like that.
This is a rather oversimplified intro to aspects. Oversimplified intentionally, because aspects are one of the most complicated, misunderstood, and absolutely crucial layers of astrology—but they’re also where a lot of beginners jump in too soon, get overwhelmed, and rage-quit their entire chart, so I want to break them down in a way that I hope will help you want to explore them deeper.
But here’s your friendly PSA from someone who’s been there:
If you’re still Googling “what even is Venus?” or “What’s the third house’s deal?”—pause here. Bookmark this. Come back later.
You can get plenty of value from your natal chart without touching aspects.
But when things start feeling a little off? Like you’re a Leo everything, but somehow get stage fright? Or your chart screams “Taurus chill” but you live on a diet of iced espresso and anxiety?
Yeah. That’s usually an aspect creeping in.
What Even Are Aspects?
If the planets, signs, and houses are the “what,” “how,” and “where” of your chart—
Aspects are the messy interpersonal dynamics happening behind the scenes.
Technically, they’re angles between planets. Certain angles = cooperation. Others = friction.
But unless you love geometry (I do not), you mauve just zoned out when I said “angles.”
So let’s skip the math and talk family holiday drama instead:
Some aspects are the rare, blissful Thanksgiving where your aunt doesn’t mention your dating life, and everyone leaves without passive-aggressive pie.
Others are like your mom stuck cleaning up solo while everyone else pretends to be too engrossed in Elf to notice.
And then there’s the full-blown shrimp cocktail incident: your uncle double-dipping while launching into a TikTok-hating monologue.
That’s how aspects work. Some are smooth and supportive. Others are awkward. And a few are straight-up shrimp cocktail wars.
The Main Culprits: Your Astrology Family Feud Lineup
Let’s break down the major aspects.
Conjunction (0°) — Same seat at the table. These planets are blending forces. Depending on the planets, they could be ride-or-die besties... or they could turn that Thanksgiving into a full-contact sport.
Sextile (60°) — Chill and productive. Think of the coworker who doesn’t demand attention but always brings snacks and covers your shift without asking.
Square (90°) — Passive-aggressive tension. Growth happens here... but only after you spend three years in therapy wondering why you sabotage yourself.
Trine (120°) — Easiest energy in your chart. Like those TikTok couples who claim they “never fight.” Effortless, smooth, natural talent. You barely have to try.
Opposition (180°) — Tug of war. Two planets pulling you in completely opposite directions, both screaming, “Pick me!” while you stand in the middle stress-eating stuffing.
Real World Example: Why Your Chart Might Feel Like a Plot Twist
Let’s say your chart tells you you’re a Sagittarius Rising.
You’re supposed to be the life of the party. The golden retriever. The one who makes friends in the Starbucks line.
But in reality? You feel... suspicious. Cautious. Maybe even a little intimidating.
Plot twist: You peek at your chart and notice your Ascendant is squaring Pluto.
Boom. That square is putting a dark, control-freak filter over your supposed sparkle.
You’re not imagining it.
That’s an aspect doing what aspects do best: making everything more complicated and less Pinterest-perfect.
So... Do You Need to Know All This?
Nope. Not right away. But I want you to have this info tucked away for when astrology starts feeling like it’s gaslighting you.
If your chart is making promises your life isn’t delivering on? Check the aspects. They’re the astrology version of, “It’s not that simple.”
And because I can’t emphasize this enough: You do NOT need to memorize this if you’re just beginning. Just know that when the placements aren’t adding up, aspects might be the missing plot twist.
