Elements
In Astrology, there are four Elements—Earth, Air, Water and Fire—that characterize the basic nature of the twelve Zodiac signs. While each sign possesses qualities that are unique unto itself, signs of the same Element share a common thread in terms of self-expression.
For instance, Fire represents an exuberant, creative and impatient personality. However, all planets in the Birth Chart must be considered to determine which Elements are dominant or lacking to accurately characterize a person’s style of self-expression.
Earth
Earth is everything tangible and material—objects we can physically see and touch. The physicality of Earth energy translates into a strong sensuality and a deep connection with nature. Resourcefulness, respect for the rules, and commitment to structure characterize the basic essence of “earthiness” in Astrology. With their signature “less is more” approach, Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn can live off nothing while making it seem like not only something, but the best "something" on the block.
A preponderance of Earth indicates a primary concern with productivity: “What can I accomplish today? How can I go about my work in the most time and cost efficient manner?” You get the picture.
Earth energy represents substance as defined by the ability to build something strong and concrete that will endure the test of time. Patient, composed, and serene, the demeanor of those with heavy Earth energy in their charts bring with them a naturally calming presence that soothes the people around them. In business, one of the strengths of Earth signs is their emphasis on simplicity and streamlining.
Air
Air is mental energy, representing the intellect and capacity for rational, objective thought. Charts with many planets in Air signs indicate people who think “outside the box.” Sometimes labeled as eccentric, Air signs have a unconventional approach to almost everything they do. Easily bored, Air signs are innately attuned to life's many absurdities and, looking to "spice it up," exhibit so-called eccentric tendencies.
Though emotions are typically met with characteristic detachment or aloofness, they place a high value on social connections, community and relationships.
Despite their sometimes scatterbrained demeanor, Air signs are surprisingly goal-oriented. So high are their expectations of themselves, others, and of life in general, that they can often set themselves up for disappointment. People with Air-heavy charts can be nervous and indecisive. Not liking to be cooped up for too long, it’s best for them to alternate periods of togetherness and alone time—unless absorbed in some pressing intellectual project, of course.
Water
Water has to do with emotions and heightened sensitivity. Water signs are so sensitive to their surroundings, they can become emotional sponges, picking up on the subtlest social and emotional cues. Water energy is mysterious and deep, and having many Water signs in a chart signifies natural healing—sometimes even psychic—abilities. It is because Water signs are so sensitive to their surroundings that they can become emotional sponges, picking up on the subtlest social and emotional cues.
This sensitivity can make these people feel permeable, so that the establishment of healthy boundaries with loved ones becomes of paramount importance.
There is a neurosis surrounding the need to feel secure and stable, which paradoxically becomes the (un)conscious driving force behind their creative success. Water is artistic, ingenious, and not afraid to be off-beat. Naturally inclined to the dramatic and theatrical, emotional depth comes naturally to those with “watery” charts, and their imagination produces art in its truest form. Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces are magicians: their capacity to manifest even their wildest dreams is often uncanny. The blessing and curse of Water energy is this ability to visualize, in that it bestows the ability to manifest one’s most fantastic dreams as well as one’s greatest fears.
Fire
Fire represents divine inspiration, unbridled energy and enthusiasm. Optimism, faith, and looking boldly into the future is what Fire energy is all about. Whether it's taking up a cause, a religion, or a relationship, Fire signs put their whole hearts into whatever they do. Those with Fire-heavy charts have an innate need to explore the world both literally and figuratively. These signs are fearless and exuberant, but can be impulsive and at times quite forceful.
Their directness of manner is, however, refreshing, as people with many planets in Fire do not enjoy wasting precious time and energy on passive-aggressive games.
Naturally outgoing types, their ardent nature predisposes them to excel at artistic and athletic pursuits of all kinds. The only danger for a person with many planets in Fire is the potential for physical burnout, as their passionate nature can take over to such a point that they forget the need to slow down and recharge their spiritual batteries.