scorpio: the eighth sign of the zodiac.

scorpio (♏︎) season spans from october 23 - november 21.

according to greek mythology, scorpio's representation as a scorpion is related to the greek legend of orion and how a scorpion stung him to death (said to be why orion sets as scorpius rises in the sky). another greek myth recounts how a scorpion caused the horses of the sun to bolt when they were being driven by the inexperienced youth phaethon.

in classical astrology, mars is the planetary ruler of both aries and scorpio. aries was thought to be the day, or diurnal home of mars, with mars finding a second nocturnal home in brooding and secretive scorpio.

in scorpio, mars has full affinity and potency in the warrior-like tendencies of this sign, but because it is in its nocturnal home, these powers take on a more secretive and covert expression. this placement presents in a slower, cooler, and more calculated use of anger and drive.

scorpio is more patient, and emotionally and psychologically nuanced than brash and brazen aries. those born with mars in scorpio can be more tactical and observant to wield behind the scenes of power. the motto "revenge is a dish best served cold" suits this tenacious and fixated archetype.

astrologers of the modern era assigned pluto -- named for the god of the underworld -- as a co-ruler of scorpio, since it's dark themes of power, destruction, and inner discovery were similar to the themes this mysterious archetype explores. combined with the assertive power of mars, scorpio's plutonian sub-signature makes this archetype uniquely suited to confront and transform personal and collective trauma.

those born with the scorpion as their rising, sun, or moon sign have a mysterious, intuitive, and power-wielding dynamic in the core of their personality, an echo of the shadowy autumn season.

as a fixed sign, scorpio holds the qualities of being a sustainer, being able to apply profound powers of concentration to projects and discovering hidden truths. as a result, those with the sign of the scorpion prominent in their charts tend to be magnetic, highly sensitive, intuitive, creative, and secretive at times.

the primary scorpio strengths can be found in their devoted, determined, and observant natures. they are hard workers, often artistic, and deeply committed to study and research. you can count on the scorpion to see whatever they have committed to through to the end.

scorpios tend to be receptive and patient, letting others play their cards and show their intentions first to better understand the emotional and psychological dynamics of their relationships. magnetic and mysterious, scorpio is drawn toward dark and taboo subjects, and are curious about the hidden facets of life that others may shy away from.

the scorpion tends to be fearless in the dark, avoided, and mysterious inner depths of the psyche, and potent realities of life like death and transformation. while scorpio is often misunderstood and feared as an archetype, those born under this sign are very sensitive, empathetic, and can be quite compassionate.

some potential weaknesses in the scorpio archetype are rooted in their great strengths. though they are determined and devoted to their work, they can become so rigid, fixated, and obsessed that it can be difficult to adapt to changes or to let go of an idea that is no longer useful.

those born under the sign of the scorpion are receptive and patient, but they can be suspicious and slow to trust. others may be forthcoming about their vulnerabilities, but if scorpios are feeling insecure, they can use what others have revealed to be emotionally manipulative and controlling. like the other fixed signs, they can be slow to forgive, and those that cross the scorpion may feel their vengeful sting.

being naturally drawn to taboo and occult subjects can have the scorpion inordinately focused on the dark side of life, giving them a pessimistic and nihilistic worldview. they may start seeking darker motives everywhere, which can lead to isolation and paranoia. it can then be hard to relax, trust, and enjoy life's simple pleasures to stay in balance.

the voice of depth, mystery, and intuition comes forward in the scorpio mantra: i transform. the scorpion's sense of purpose is all about plumbing life's shadows to uncover hidden truth and to attain power. operating in fixed mode, scorpios direct their intense laser focus into their work, projects, and relationships. these take on an all-encompassing mythic proportion, as those born under the sign of the Scorpion live their lives actively exploring the unseen depths of the soul.

the tarot card that correlates to scorpio is number 13: death. this card can seem rather ominous, but rarely is a portent of actual death. the death card points to the transformative phase in the circle of life that scorpio as an archetype is most aligned with exploring. number 13 of the major arcana illustrates the principle of death and letting go so that what is past its due date can return to the earth and become the compost that fertilizes new growth. we can observe and feel this phenomenon happening in nature and also on an internal, soul level.

this card appears to remind us of this process so that we don't become fearful of change and growth. once we recognize "death" as a time of surrendering to an important part of the creative and evolutionary cycle, we can begin to trust and flow with it. we may need to allow ourselves the time to withdraw and grieve and be with our sense of loss before we are ready to truly move forward and renew. death is not the end, but only a passage through a world of mystery and shadow that allows us to embrace the fullness of life.

CRYSTALS FOR SCORPIO:

for the potent emotional experiences that scorpio tends to go through, hematite ensures they can stay grounded through the process. this dense gemstone tethers the spirit to the body, earth, and physical world. it reminds them of the importance of embodiment and keeping your physical needs in mind. in addition, hematite is associated with protection and setting boundaries, which can be an excellent gemstone to ally with when having a difficult or challenging situation to face. if you feel anxious about a situation and need to stand up for yourself, set boundaries, or state your truth, then hematite can help you maintain a steady sense of self through the process. 

amethyst connects to the spiritual realms as well as the emotional body, bringing balance to the emotions and calm to the overall aura and energetic field. this crystal can bring them into alignment with their spiritual path and purpose.

a stone of abundance, creativity, and renewal, malachite is excellent for the success-driven sides of scorpio. this zodiac sign utilizes their immense drive, stamina, and willpower to see their goals through to the end. malachite supports increased confidence and courage as well as will help clear obstacles from your path. it helps to transform situations to work in your favor. in addition, this crystal can support unlocking your creativity and helps you stir up brilliant ideas and innovations.

a stone of balance and understanding, tourmaline supports scorpio's complex experiences in life and relationships. these crystals bring healing to painful situations and energetic protection for the empathic scorpio. tourmaline can help mitigate negative energies and support the healing of the entire self. this is a gemstone that supports the healthy development of close friendships and intimate relationships. it can help Scorpio to open up to their vulnerabilities and allow for trust to blossom between them and others as a result.