If you are involved in the world of astrology, then you know that there is more to this complex system than just astrology. There are 12 zodiac signs in astrology, and each archetype has unique energies, qualities, elements, and strengths. One way to classify zodiac signs is by their form, which is cardinal sign, fixed sign, or mutable sign. All zodiac signs fall into one of these three categories, and they can tell us a lot about how we express ourselves in the world.
The three patterns in astrology (also called quadruples , since there are four zodiac signs in each group) are the cardinal signs, the fixed signs, and the mutable signs. These classifications represent the unique ways each sign group expresses energy, responds to different environments, and operates in life. "These patterns are another way to break down signs and elements," astrologer Lisa Stardust tells Bustle. "They represent the ability of symbols and elements to move and evolve over time." They describe the patterns in which these signs do things and the general methods they use in their approach.
Forms are not to be confused with the elements in astrology (i.e. fire, earth, air, and water), although these are the classifications used to classify the 12 zodiac signs. Elements represent certain qualities and motivations of a group of zodiac signs, while patterns represent expressions of those specific qualities. That is, each mode contains one sign from each of the four elements, and each element contains one sign from each mode - meaning the energy is evenly distributed in both systems.
If you want to identify a zodiac sign based on its morphology, there are some basic qualities you need to pay attention to. "Cardinal signs are always moving on to the next project, fixed signs often get bogged down in completing projects, and mutable signs may be unable to commit because of their relationship to patterns," says Stardust. So while all fire signs are passionate and action-oriented, they each express different vibes based on their shape - which is why the strengths of Cardinal Aries include being a proactive self-starter, while Fixed The strength of the zodiac sign Leo is turning passion into hard work and loyalty. Mutable Sagittarius, on the other hand, is more go-with-the-flow.
Are you a cardinal, fixed or mutable sign? Discovering the patterns of your sign can help you gain a deeper understanding of your personal astrology and understand the complexities of your sign more thoroughly.
Basic zodiac signs: Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn
When something is described as fundamental, it means that it is both fundamental and important—and this is certainly the case for the four cardinal signs of the zodiac. "The cardinal signs are the 'initiators' of the zodiac," says Stardust. "They represent sparks or ideas. They also mark the beginning of seasons." Cardinal signs are the people of the zodiac with big ideas. You can always count on them to get a new flow of energy, start new projects, and lay a solid foundation for any endeavor (although they sometimes have trouble finishing everything they start). Cardinal signs are visionaries in that they are able to create new things seemingly out of thin air and rush forward with new beginnings.
All in all, it makes sense that the first day of each cardinal sign's astrological season coincides with the first day of each meteorological season: Aries' season aligns with the vernal equinox, Libra's season aligns with the autumnal equinox, and Cancer and Capricorn's seasons begin on They are the summer solstice and winter solstice respectively. The cardinal energy of new beginnings helps us begin each season with enthusiasm.
Fixed signs: Taurus, Leo, Scorpio and Aquarius
Fixed signs of the zodiac always have their eyes on the prize. These signs are able to take the ideas of the cardinal signs and bring them to life by executing their plans. "Fixed signs are the 'doers' of the zodiac," Stardust explains. "They execute the ideas embodied by their Cardinal signs and do all the work required to complete the task at hand." Each Fixed sign is highly focused when setting goals, adept at sticking to a plan, and has the ability to identify exactly what needs to be done (and then go Do). This can make them quite stubborn at times, but their hard-working nature outweighs this.
Since the astrological seasons for these signs fall right in the middle of spring, summer, autumn, and winter, the energy of the fixed signs is focused on drive and dedication. Fixed signs' strengths come when they're stuck in a difficult situation and fully immersed in it - they can rely on unwavering dedication to get through the most difficult parts of any situation.
Mutable signs: Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius and Pisces
Cardinal signs get things started, while fixed signs carry out the plan—and finally, mutable signs swoop in to finish things off, helping us embrace the inevitable changes in life. " Mutable signs represent the end of each season and the final outcome of the project or task at hand," says Stardust. "They are flexible because of their understanding of change." Things don't always go according to plan, but mutable signs can handle unexpected changes. When faced with endings, challenges, or transitions, their versatility and adaptability shine through as they can gracefully change course and go with the flow. This can sometimes make them a bit whimsical or difficult to pin down, but mutable signs have the ability to respond to (and make the best of) any situation.
The astrological seasons for each mutable sign occur in the last months of spring, summer, autumn and winter each year - meaning that when the Sun leaves those signs each year, the entire season ends. This energy is fully reflected in the adaptability of mutable signs to accept things as they are and change shape to suit circumstances. Whether it's a project, a conversation, or an entire season, these signs know how to let things end naturally.
