Earth element

From Astrology In Depth

The earth element reflects a solid construct, strongly based on sensory perceptions of the material world. The signs of Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn are formulated out of this element, and the influence of Saturn has a similar effect.

The most fundamental principle in this element is the need for security and some sense of stability, as based on underlying, crystalized fears and sensitivities. There's a stronger valuation of logic and at least some predictability, which forms a ground for them to stand on. These do not like to feel disoriented, and need to get themselves an anchor in something. As such there are often strong convictions in these signs. Subsequently, they are also better able to keep a constant perspective from the point of this solid value base, and unlike the other, more dynamic elements, they cannot manage to "fool themselves" or get swayed otherwise.

Consciousness here is condensed and concentrated, experiences forged and consolidated into the personality, which becomes somewhat crystallized and its patterns made more difficult to change than other elements. The problem with such fixated personality structure is that psychological restructuring of negative perceptions can be more difficult to achieve. In this light, earthy personalities have a certain morbid potential. The condensed type of consciousness in this element often creates a problem of heightened self-consciousness and sensitivity to self-image, as well as serve to add a strong self-examinatory inclination under the goal of properly securing self-image. This type of consciousness also makes for a more calculating demeanor.

Similarly, earthy signs can sometimes have some superficiality to them in the form of excessive focus on image, however what they build is in most cases deeply founded and well-examined.

In accordance with the earthy consciousness, these are utilitarian and seek to have real, tangible results to the efforts they put out. They do not usually like to waste time on inconsequential or highly theoretical things. This element is rather conservative, but also constructive in a cautious, systematic and therefore slower fashion.

A strong earth personality can sometimes feel a bit "mechanical". In a more difficult chart there may be something of a "heart of stone". There's often a great technical sense. Strong earth personalities may have difficulty thinking "outside the box". Similarly, there is a certain tendency for fatalism. Earthy influences tend to have deep underlying psychological complexes.

> edit this In comparison to the water element

The earth element seeks to build to surface heights, where the water element seeks to seep to depths, get to the core. The earth element can help provide a good structure to the water element, but that structure may be too fixed for it. The water element needs to flow and be on the move, or else it stagnates.

> edit this In comparison to the air element

The earth element is not as influenceable by the air element as the other elements are. The earth element would consider the air element more of a huff-and-puff, acting mostly on a superficial level. The air element can become frustrated with the more fixated, unshakeable earth element.