In my last blog post, Embracing the Shadow Side of Astrology: Overcoming Challenges for Personal Growth, I explored the benefits of knowing and working with the more difficult bits in our astrology rather than focusing only on the easier and more beneficial gifts that are shown in each of our charts. In this post, I am going to continue with this theme and take a deep dive into the square aspect or 90-degree angle between planets or points in our natal and transit charts, and highlight what they mean and how we can work with the challenges they pose in our fight to get to the top.
What is the Square Aspect in Astrology?
The square aspect occurs when two planets or points in a chart are approximately 90 degrees apart. Imagine a clock face: if one planet is at 12 o’clock and another is at 3 o’clock, they form a square aspect. This angle creates a dynamic of of tension and friction between the energies of the planets involved.
The Symbolism of the Square Aspect
The square aspect is like learning to drive a manual car. When you first start, the gears grind, and the car jerks forward awkwardly. This friction is frustrating, but it’s a necessary part of the learning process. Similarly, squares in astrology create tension between different parts of our psyche, pushing us to face challenges and grow stronger.
The Nature of Tension and Conflict
Squares are known for creating tension and conflict. Imagine trying to navigate a steep hill in a manual car without properly meshing the gears. The car stalls, and you have to start over. This is how the energy of a square works: it creates a clash that demands resolution and perseverance.
Crisis Points and Turning Moments
Squares often indicate crisis points in our lives. These are moments when we are forced to make important decisions or changes. Think of a sqaure as a challenging intersection where you must decide whether to shift gears or change direction. These moments of choice can be difficult, but they lead to personal growth and transformation.
Resistance and Frustration
The square aspect can also create feelings of resistance and frustration. Picture trying to drive uphill while the car keeps slipping out of gear. The effort is exhausting, and progress can be slow. This resistance can lead to frustration, but it also builds resilience and strength over time.
Growth Through Struggle
Despite the challenges, squares are powerful catalysts for growth. The struggle and effort required to deal with a square can lead to greater strength, resilience, and personal evolution. It’s like finally mastering the manual transmission; the process is tough, but the result is a smoother, more confident drive.
Positive and Negative Manifestations of Squares
Positive Manifestations:
- Motivation and Drive: The tension of a square can fuel ambition and determination. When faced with obstacles, we often find new motivation to overcome them.
- Innovation and Creativity: The need to resolve conflicts can lead to creative solutions and innovative approaches. Squares force us to think outside the box.
- Strength and Resilience: Overcoming the challenges posed by squares builds inner strength and resilience. We learn to cope with difficulties and emerge stronger.
Negative Manifestations:
- Stress and Anxiety: The persistent tension of a square can lead to stress and anxiety if not managed properly. It’s important to find healthy ways to cope with this stress.
- Conflict and Aggression: Squares can manifest as external conflicts or aggressive behavior, especially if the energies are not consciously integrated. Being aware of this can help us manage our reactions better.
- Obstacles and Delays: Persistent obstacles and delays can be frustrating and may hinder progress if not addressed constructively. Patience and perseverance are key.
Examples of Square Aspects
Sun Square Moon
When the Sun and Moon form a square, there is an internal conflict between ego and emotions. This can make it challenging to find balance between personal identity and emotional needs. It’s like trying to balance teh clutch and gas pedal; finding the right harmony takes practice.
Mars Square Saturn
A square between Mars and Saturn creates frustration and obstacles in achieving goals. It’s like driving with the brakes on: progress is slow and requires extra effort. Patience and disciplined effort are necessary to overcome these challenges.
Venus Square Pluto
Venus square Pluto indicates intense and transformative relationships that involve power struggles and deep emotional confrontations. Imagine the intense focus required to shift gears smoothly during a difficult drive; the intensity can be overwhelming, but it can also lead to profound personal transformation.
Working with Square Aspects
Embrace the Challenge
The first step in working with square aspects is to embrace the challenge they present. Recognize that the friction and tension are opportunities for growth. Instead of resisting the difficulties, see them as a chance to develop new skills and strengths.
Seek Balance
Finding balance is crucial when dealing with squares. This means acknowledging the conflicting energies and working to integrate them. For example, with a Sun square Moon aspect, finding ways to harmonize personal identity with emotional needs can lead to a more balanced life.
Use Creative Solutions
Squares push us to think creatively. Use the tension to explore new approaches and solutions. For instance, if Mars square Saturn is causing delays, find innovative ways to work around obstacles and keep moving forward.
Develop Resilience
Squares build resilience by challenging us to face difficulties head-on. Embrace the struggle and recognize that each obstacle you overcome makes you stronger. Resilience is like mastering the gears of a manual car; it gets easier with practice.
Practice Patience
Patience is essential when dealing with squares. Progress may be slow, and obstacles can be frustrating. Remember that growth takes time and persistence. Keep pushing forward, and don’t get discouraged by setbacks.
Channel the Energy
The energy of squares can be intense. Find healthy ways to channel this energy, such as through physical activity, creative pursuits, or meditation. This can help reduce stress and keep you focused on your goals.
Conclusion
The square aspect in astrology represents a powerful force for growth and transformation. While it creates tension, conflict, and challenges, it also offers opportunities for personal development. By embracing the friction and working through the obstacles, we can turn these difficult aspects into stepping stones toward a stronger, more resilient self.
In my astrology practice, I have found that people with more squares in their charts tend to be more successful in life compared to those with many of the easier trines and sextiles. The trines and sextiles people often remain unchallenged and comfortable, whereas those with squares face and overcome significant obstacles, leading to greater achievements. Remember, learning to drive a manual car requires effort and patience, but mastering it gives you more control and confidence. Similarly, the challenges posed by squares are crucial for our personal evolution. So, if you have squares in your chart, study them. Understand them. See them as opportunities to rise to the occasion and emerge stronger and wiser.
Thank you for taking time to read my blog. Now book a reading from me and get down to the real nitty gritty!
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