The Zodiac Signs: it’s common knowledge that there are twelve of them. What many people don’t know is that these twelve signs can further be categorized as one of four elements. That means that there are three signs per element, and each sign of an element can be described by a certain modality. There are four elements that make up the zodiac signs: fire, earth, air, and water. With each element, there are corresponding zodiac signs that fit each of the fire, earth, air, and water elements.
In fire elements, you will find the following zodiac signs: Aries (Cardinal), Leo (Fixed), and Sagittarius (Mutable). Fire is a passionate, unpredictable element. As such, fire signs exhibit hot emotions and temper. They tend to get angry or upset just as easily as they forgive and let go. Fire signs are passionate and have a lot of creativity.
In earth elements, you will find the following zodiac signs: Taurus (Fixed), Virgo (Mutable), and Capricorn (Cardinal). Like the actual planet itself, Earth signs are very grounded in reality. That means they are practical, focusing more on what is substantial and stable. Earth signs can be a reliable pillar for others to lean on because they stand with their values and have much discipline.
In air elements, you will find the following zodiac signs: Gemini (Mutable), Libra (Cardinal), and Aquarius (Fixed). Like the wind, air signs flutter this way and that, making them excellent communicators among people. They tend to be social and friendly due to their skills in diplomacy. Because of this, air signs like to learn about and share new ideas, and they are known to offer advice to those in need.
In water elements, you will find the following zodiac signs: Cancer (Cardinal), Scorpio (Fixed), and Pisces (Mutable). Water signs are known for their intense and flowing emotions. They can be sensitive and care deeply for loved ones. Their intuitive allows them to understand others’ emotions as well. They can also be very mysterious, like the unexplored ocean itself, and have a rich imagination.
The Three Modalities
The modalities refer to certain characteristics each astrological sign has based on the time that it occurs. Each element has a sign of a different modality, which depends on whether it comes at the beginning, middle, or end of a yearly season (winter, spring, summer, fall). The three modalities are cardinal, fixed, and mutable.
Cardinal modalities begin each season, so they are the initiative signs. They like to be original, devise new ideas, and jump into action. Fixed modalities come mid-season, so they are exactly as the name sounds. If cardinal modalities are the go-getters, fixed modalities are responsible maintainers. They work to keep things consistent and in-motion. Mutable modalities come at the end of each season. They represent change and shifts, which means they are adaptable in any situation.