The Houses in Astrology Part One

As you dive deeper into your natal chart, you’ll start to learn a lot. You’ll find that you have each and every zodiac sign, and each and every planet in your chart. Additionally, they can be aspected or concentrated in a single house.

Houses in astrology represent twelve different “realms.” In these different houses, our intrinsic nature, values, aesthetics, trials, experiences, tribulations, and potential for success exist. Below, you’ll find basic overviews for each house, starting with the first through the sixth. To learn about houses seven through twelve, read this post here.

The First House

In astrology, the First House rules the physical body, energy levels, and consciousness of the Self. The First House has similar characteristics of that of Aries and Mars, meaning that assertion, velocity, and power have a place here.

Note: Your rising sign is on the cusp of your first house. If you know the degree of your rising sign, then you can predict where your first house starts. For example, I have my rising sign in Scorpio at the 29th degree (there are only 30). This means that my first house starts in Sagittarius (which follows Scorpio in the order of the zodiac).

The Second House

The Second House rules material possessions, inherent skills, and talents, as well as a sense of security. Here, our personal finances are influenced (how we make money). There can also be indications for financial resources which in our society can impact self-esteem. This very domestic part of our charts references what we own, materially and within ourselves. Earnings, values, and security come from here.

The Third House

The Third House in astrology rules communication and siblings. Additionally, it’s concerned with the local community and short-distance transportation. Your peers, local clubs, coworkers, local forums, ride-sharing, neighbors, and community partnerships influence this sector. The planets in your Third House will be deeply concerned with these matters. Even if you don’t have planets in this house, you can still learn a lot by reviewing key details about the zodiac sign that rules it and noting transits through this (and any other) House.

The Fourth House
The Fourth House is positioned at the base of your natal chart (the first house starting on the mid-left side, going counter-clockwise in a circle) and is known as the roots or foundation. This house is all about the spaces that we nurture not only ourselves but others, too. Our emotions are linked to this house. Early childhood experiences are also connected to this house as it’s commonly connected with the nurturing parent in our young lives, which doesn’t always mean the birth mother. Here, we experienced a lot beyond our control and it shapes who we become.

The Fifth House
In astrology, the Fifth House is commonly referred to as the “house of pleasure.” Whether through creative pursuits, or something more sensual, we all seek to express ourselves passionately and intently. This house will also be telling of your hobbies, pastimes, and all of the things you do for fun. Casual sex and the pursuit of romantic partners can also be influenced by this house, as well as procreation. This house has artistic, theatrical, and creative correlations which may be inspired by the Sun and Leo’s corresponding archetypes.

The Sixth House
In addition to the Second and Tenth Houses, the Sixth House is considered a “work” house. But unlike the Second House which governs finances and the tenth which tells of our social status, the sixth house influences the “mundane” activities that keep us going. Day-to-day duties, writing to-do lists, managing a planner, and scheduling appointments are all excellent examples of 6th house behavior. This is also where we consider physical health, and healthcare generally. Doctor’s appointments, diets, and day-to-day lifestyle choices fall within this realm.

There’s much more to learn and dive into when it comes to the houses in astrology. However, this should give you a basic understanding of how you can apply knowledge of the houses to your everyday life. Read part two of this discussion here.