VIRGO ~ THE MAIDEN 23rd. August ~ 22nd. September

Virgo is the second sign with a human association and is depicted as a young woman holding sheaves of corn. Alternatively termed the Virgin or Maiden, a stylised letter ‘M’ for the latter serves as the glyph for this sign. The best way to understand the nature of Virgo is to consider its position in the zodiac. Virgo is the sixth sign and thus the natural ruler of the sixth house. This in turn has three main connotations - health, work and service. The essence of the Virgo nature becomes clear when we consider these features, together with the attributes of purity and chastity with which the Maiden herself has traditionally been connected. Firstly then, for those born under this sign there is often a major focus on health, and a particular association with food, diet and hygiene. Cleanliness is next to godliness in the Virgo dictionary and while there are always exceptions, this sign generally enjoys a reputation for neatness, tidiness and order - some would say an excessive concern with all three. Health is high on their list of priorities. While not necessarily related to problems here, soundness of mind and body is something on which the typical Virgo can lavish a considerable amount of time and attention. There is often a link with alternative and holistic forms of healing, such as homeopathy and herbalism. Diet is something of which many Virgos are acutely aware, with a focus on correct assimilation for overall well-being. Often there are special dietary requirements or preferences like vegetarianism or certain substance-free regimes, especially since Virgo’s digestion is particularly sensitive and often prone to allergies. All medicines and drugs should be taken with extreme caution. Stress and worry are things most Virgos are prone to and which can have a detrimental effect on their constitution. They should strive to maintain a mental and emotional equilibrium with adequate rest, relaxation and exercise. Amorphous hypochondria should, however, be discouraged wherever possible. This sign is also particularly linked with the world of work. Virgos have a great need to work, to be useful and of service to others, whether in a formal or informal capacity. In many ways this is how they prove their worth, since their own self-image can be rather weak and their self-confidence rather low. Basically, they are systems people - ideally suited to tasks which others would find too detailed, involved or painstaking but at which the meticulous, exact, methodical and painstaking Virgo truly can excel. Typically they are best behind the scenes, being naturally modest, reticent and retiring. In the office they make supreme personal assistants, office managers and secretaries. They are manually dextrous and can be skilled craftspeople. Often they make gifted health professionals. Emotionally Virgos are cautious, reserved and restrained. They assess their relationships from a pragmatic and practical perspective, always maintaining very high standards. Hence the reputation for purity and chastity - although Virgos all possess an earthy sexuality, they are also capable of prolonged periods of abstinence. They invariably subject their feelings to intense rational analysis and will never be seen to gush indiscriminately. Virgos are notorious for their habit of criticising others and for being finicky, nit-picking and pedantic. They are perfectionists and their desire for efficiency and order extends to their surroundings. Excessive carping and complaining can be upsetting to others, who should remember that pointed self-criticism is actually a much stronger feature of this sign. Virgos should themselves endeavour to be more light-hearted and should ensure that while immersing themselves in minutiae, they do not wind-up losing a clear view of the wood for the trees. © Paul Wade 1999

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