Challenging Aspects in Astrology: What They Mean for You

Aspects are simply the angles formed between planets in a birth chart, depicting how these bodies work in tandem with each other. Many aspects flow smoothly, but some aspects are difficult and lead to challenges. These challenging aspects- hard aspects- include squares, opposition, and sometimes the conjunction, is when the energy is so intense that it is conflicting, forcing natives to go through changes or difficulties that they would normally flourish without.
A square often manifests as inner resistance. It calls our attention to the areas of our life that make us feel “stuck” and encourages change, no matter how uncomfortable it feels. Squares push us out of our comfort zones so we grow through tension. When Mars- a planet of action- and Saturn, a planet of discipline, oppose each other, frustration presents itself because action is compelled by a need for restriction. Painful as these might be, squares are phenomenal ways to step up personal growth and teach us resiliency.
An opposition occurs when two planets are on opposite sides of each other in the zodiac, so we have a tug-of-war between the forces of each of these planets that want to conduct their own influence over the native. This aspect usually speaks of problems and challenges in the domain of people and circumstances.
Conjunctions are not necessarily always difficult, but can be according to planetary combinations. When planets sit so close to each other, it can combine energies that amplify both the positive and the negative traits in a mutually aggressive way way. For instance, a Mars-Pluto conjunction can make for very explosive energy and force the native into an obsessive need for control through either aggression or downright anger issues.
Hard aspects, though alarming, are also very good opportunities for self-growth. There is no need to be disturbed by these aspects. They point out areas in your life where you are expected to grow by stepping over obstacles. Knowing what hard aspects affect your chart helps you face life’s challenges better with greater awareness to your weakness, changing stress into strength and conflict into resolution.