Uranus

Uranus is the planet of change, freedom and originality. It describes where you break away from convention, where you feel different from others, and where sudden insights or surprises arrive. It is the part of you that says "there must be another way".

Cycle and speed

Uranus takes about 84 years to orbit the Sun and spends roughly seven years in each sign, so it shapes the character of a generation. Each year it turns retrograde for about five months. Around age 42 it is opposite its natal position, a time in which many people feel a strong urge to reinvent their lives.

Rulership

Uranus is the modern ruler of Aquarius, the sign of independence, ideas and community. Because it was discovered only in 1781, traditional astrology gave Aquarius to Saturn, and many astrologers still treat Saturn as a co-ruler. There is no widely agreed sign of exaltation for Uranus.

When it is strong

A healthy Uranus gives an inventive mind, honesty about who you are and the courage to live differently. You can embrace change without losing your footing, and you are able to see systems clearly enough to improve them.

When it is stressed

Stress appears as restlessness, rebellion for its own sake, sudden breaks, unpredictability or emotional detachment. You may cut ties abruptly when slower, honest conversation would have worked better.

How to read it in your chart

• Sign: the generational theme you share with others your age. It becomes personal through its house and aspects.
• House: the area of life where you need freedom, where things tend to change suddenly and where you are unconventional.
• Aspects: tight aspects to personal planets are the ones you will notice most, as they bring spark and surprise to that part of you.

Uranus teaches that freedom and commitment can coexist, if you choose them rather than react.