Introduction to Synastry: Understanding Relationship Chemistry
What is Synastry?
Synastry is the astrological technique of comparing two natal charts to understand the nature, compatibility, and dynamic between two individuals. It reveals the chemical reactions, areas of harmony, and potential challenges inherent in any relationship.
When two people come together, their two distinct energies merge, creating a unique dynamic that is more than the sum of their parts. Synastry is the branch of astrology dedicated to analyzing this intersection. The process involves literally overlaying one person's natal chart onto the other's.
Two Main Factors in Synastry
1. Inter-Aspects (The Chemical Reactions)
These are the aspects formed between the planets of one person (Chart A) and the planets/angles of the other person (Chart B).
Harmonious Aspects
Conjunct, Trine, Sextile: These aspects (especially those involving the Sun, Moon, Venus, or Mars) generate ease, flow, mutual understanding, and attraction.
Example: Person A's Venus trine Person B's Mars suggests a natural, easy sexual and affectional chemistry.
Challenging Aspects
Square, Opposition: These aspects create friction, tension, and necessary growth. While often uncomfortable, they can be the most dynamic and transformative parts of the relationship.
Example: Person A's Saturn square Person B's Sun might indicate that Person A often feels like a serious challenge or restriction to Person B's vitality, demanding maturity.
2. House Overlays (The Area of Effect)
This looks at which Houses of Person A's chart the planets of Person B fall into, and vice versa. This shows the area of life where one person impacts the other.
Examples
Person A's Moon in Person B's 7th House: Person A's emotional nature (Moon) will directly impact Person B's relationships (7th House), potentially making them feel nurtured or emotionally vulnerable within the partnership structure.
Person B's Mars in Person A's 10th House: Person B's actions and drive (Mars) will directly motivate or challenge (depending on the aspect) Person A's professional life.
Conclusion
Synastry is a roadmap to the relationship's psychology. It clarifies that compatibility isn't about lacking challenges, but about understanding where those challenges lie and how the unique energies of each individual blend together.