Introduction
Leo is often called the royal zodiac. It is the fifth Zodiac and is known as `Simha` in Hindi. Sun travels through this Zodiac from July 23rd to August 22nd. The ruler of this zodiac is the kingly Sun. Magha, Purva Phalguni and Uttara Phalguni are the Nakshatras under this zodiac. Leo is enthusiastic, powerful, expansive and creative, generous and extravagant, dogmatic and fixed in opinion.
Ruling Planet of Leo
In Indian Astrology, the Sun is the most powerful planetary influence, bestowing vitality and authority. Sun ruled people are inclined towards acquisition of knowledge and artistic achievement. Such individuals are full of self-respect, honesty and loyalty. They have excellent communication skills and tend to have a very attractive personality.
Characteristics of Leo
Physical Characteristics of Leo
Leos have broad shoulders, rosy complexion, large bones and muscles. They have soft and wavy hair usually light in colour with tendency to baldness. They will be tall, well built and muscular with large staring eyes.
General Characteristics of Leo
Being a Leo is all about living the pleasure filled life with enthusiasm and being the king of the social jungle. Leos are extremely generous, warm hearted, outgoing and proud people with natural creative flairs. They never fail to use their potential to the hilt. Their sincere and enthusiastic approach to life makes them the most favoured people of all. Leos are superb host and extremely popular in social events.
This fire sign also provides with ambition and strong craving for power. Although, a normal lion is faithful and truthful to the core, their excessive lust for pride and ambition can make them extremely selfish, vain and a manipulator in few rare cases. Leos are highly susceptible to flattery and admiration. This is one of the weakest points of this zodiac born, along with their habit of being extravagant. Leo people tend to be bombastic and challenging, and often unknowingly provoke others into impulsive violence. They are also prone toward being victims of slander.
Leo as Moon Sign
Leo as Moon Sign likes to be at the center of everyone"s attention. They tend to be very ambitious and proud people. They have a need for independence in what they do. They do not like to be ordered. In Astrology, Sun sign determines ones zodiac personality, while Moon sign is the second most important influence in ones horoscope chart after the Sun, represents their emotions and inner mood.
A Moon in Leo modifies ones Sun sign in this way:
•The bright side of Leo as Moon Sign are more exuberant, creative, broad-minded, colourful and fun-loving.
•The dark side of Leo as Moon Sign are more self-indulgent, self-centred, conceited, overbearing and bullying.
Characteristic Features of Leo as Moon Sign
In the magnetic, flamboyant sign of Leo the Moons power is positive and robust, and even its dark side is less dark than in other signs. Leo is a wonderful placement for the Moon because it gives great warmth and stability to the Moon"s influence; it also imparts an idealistic quality. They are a quick and accurate learner when their feelings are involved.
One of their most striking characteristics is a refusal to be hampered by other people"s rules. They tend to be extremely intelligent and are hospitable to new ideas, but they have little sympathy for petty or narrow think¬ing. They like to be the center of attention and enjoy taking on public roles. These people are highly expressive, and are especially drawn to the world of theatre, music, painting and arts. People born with Leo as Moon sign possess a wonderful sense of humour and great personal charm.
Moon-in-Leo people work very well in group enter¬prises because they have a talent for inspiring people to do their best. Their immediate reaction to a problem is to confront it rather than sit around moping about it. They are a natural leader who often feels that they have a mission in life. Sometimes they may become bossy and overbearing; they are an order-giver rather than an order-taker but at heart very cheerful and enthusiastic that people find it easy to forgive them.
In love, these people are a great romantic, yet their flamboyant romanticism would never be sparked by someone who will not make them look good. When a lover does not live up to their expectations they are dis¬appointed. Also, though they are jealous and possessive toward their loved ones, they them¬selves are flirtatious and a bit of rover because they need everyone to admire them. They are an attention addict.
Elements in Leo as Moon Sign
Born with any Sun Sign, the Leo-Moon qualities of warmth, vitality, and charisma will appear in the personality. People with certain elements in Leo as Moon Sign are as follows:
• Fire: If ones Sun is in a fire sign (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius), a Leo Moon accentuates their creativity and leadership abi es.
• Air: If ones Sun is in an air sign (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius), a Leo Moon lends a dynamic, compelling quality to their people-oriented personality.
• Earth: If ones Sun is in an earth sign (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn), a Leo Moon gives them an even stronger passionate nature and good moneymaking skills.
• Water: If ones Sun is in a water sign (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces), a Leo Moon heightens their already powerful emotional impact on others.
Whatever one"s Sun sign, a Moon in Leo gives them dignity, an affectionate, outgoing nature, and an instinct for leadership.
Ascendants of Leo
Ascendants of Leo is the name given to the rising sign on the eastern horizon during the time of birth of an individual. People, who have Leo as their rising sign, have the Sun as their overall chart ruler. The Ascendant of Leo defines an individual"s body and physical characteristics, also playing a strong role in the development of their character.
Features of Ascendants of Leo
Leo ascending signifies nobility of character, high ideals and great personal magnetism. If a person has Leo rising, they are big-hearted, expansive, benevolent and kind. They consider it beneath them to stoop to pettiness, carping, stinginess or narrow-mindedness. Because they are so magnanimous in spirit, they find it hard to believe ill of others. Leo Ascendants are puzzled and hurt by meanness and ungenerosity.
Rising-Leos have a great sense of showmanship. They love to put on lavish displays, whether it is decorating their house with expensive and elegant things or dress¬ing in attention-getting clothes or throwing a splendid dinner party. To less flamboyant types they may appear pretentious, flaunty and extravagant.
Leo-Rising people seem surrounded by luck in money, career and friendship. They are not very hard worker but tend to achieve success through the influence and pull of others. Fame and fortune come to them when they aren"t actually looking for it.
Ascendants of Leo are efficient at organizing groups of people and inspiring them to give their best. They are happiest in the role of leader. In fact, they feel wounded if their public doesn"t put him/her in that position which turn them haughty, tempera¬mental and arrogant. Leo is the sign of pride, and Ascendant natives have this in abundance. They are self-confident and have a resolute faith in themself.
Leo-Rising people have a wonderful sense of humour. They have a particularly soft spot for children and spoil them outrageously.
As a Leo-Rising person, they tend to have a large, beautifully shaped head, thick shining hair, a dazzling smile with bright, even teeth and a stately bearing.
The Sun, which rules Leo, is very prominent in their horoscope. The influence of the Sun bestows enthusi¬asm, generosity, power, warmth, creative self-expression, passion and courage. It also encourages egotism, arro¬gance, snobbism, conceit, pomposity and condescension.
Cusps of Leo
Cusps of Leo are the individuals born when the Sun was on the verge of changing signs with Cancer and Virgo. The individuals of this cusp tend to take traits from both sides of the cusp. They often identify with two signs and become a hybrid of both the zodiacs. They can seem to have a personality that is sometimes at odds with itself. Individuals born on either of these two cusps can be a curious mix of introvert and extrovert.
Cancer/ Leo Cusp (July 23 through July 27)
Those born on this cusp are Leo with Cancer tendencies. They have high aspirations and tend to be creative, and at the same time are methodical and studious. They want to make the "right" decisions and hate to be caught unprepared or off-guard. Mental work stimulates them. They have good powers of concentration and an ability to express self. They are headstrong and possessive in love.
Cancer and Leo are two very different zodiac signs. Cancer is very sensitive and ruled by the emotional Moon, while Leo is proud, brave and ruled by the fiery Sun. The Cancer/ Leo Cusp is also known as the "Cusp of Oscillation". This makes them a lover and a leader. Their natural empathy and genuine interest for others allows them to connect with people easily.
Positively, they are ambitious, inspiring, intense, witty, courageous, sociable, loyal, creative, thinker and practical.
Negatively, they are dependent, insensitive, hypersensitive, moody, unscrupulous, self-centred, dramatic, intolerant and proud.
Leo/ Virgo Cusp (August 18 through August 22)
Those born on this cusp are Leo with Virgo tendencies. They gain attention because of their strong personality and sense of style. Determination is one of their dominant qualities. They climb over obstacles to reach a goal or get something their heart is set on. They have a taste for elegance. They are basi¬cally an emotional person. They make decisions first with their heart and then rationalize with their head.
The Leo/ Virgo Cusp is also known as the "Cusp of Exposure". Born on this Cusp, they are influenced by the Sun; the ruling planet of Leo and Mercury; the ruling planet of Virgo. Each of these planets is simultaneously familiar and unknowable. The Leo-Virgo cusp is one of the most ambitious and relentless astrological combinations. In fact, these natives are extremely determined to achieve their goals. These people are passionate about their interests and confident in their abilities.
Positively, they have the zest and ambition to be successful in life, especially in their creative endeavours.
Negatively, they are self-centred, egoist, stubborn, quarrelsome and cold, which often gives a wrong impression about them to others, overshadowing their positive aspects.
Astrology and Health for Leo
Astrology and Health for Leo is a study that helps to get a preview of one"s overall well being in present and future with solutions to help break the shackles of health issues from life. The position of various stars and planets affects one"s mood as well as their health conditions. The sign of Leo is characterized by growth, vitality and good health. Leo people are not inclined to be sickly, and when they are ill they bounce back very quickly.
Part of Body Ruled by Leo
The sign of Leo rules the spine, back and heart. The heart is associated with warm emotions, the back with courage. Leo people display these qualities. They are open personalities who give wholeheartedly of themselves to others and live life to the fullest. Leos have robust constitutions, supple spines and good co-ordination. They are usually excellent dancers and athletes.
Leo"s ruler planet, the Sun has always been associated with the heart, back and spinal column. It also influences the spleen and the entire body"s vitality. It also rules the thymus, an endocrine gland that secretes hormones necessary for growth during the early years of childhood.
Health Issues for Leo
Leos have a great need to excel in what they do, and often push themselves so hard that they suffer strain from overexertion and nerves. Their upper back tires more easily than other parts of their bodies. They are also subject to pains and pressure around the heart. When startled a Leo"s heart will seem to jump into his or her throat. They can usually feel their pulses beat inside their heads. Heart problems may crop up later in life; however, Leos are noted for their longevity and healthy lives.
Diet and Health Tips for Leo
Leo people enjoy the good life, and eating well is part of this. They like rich food and liquors. Fortunately young Leos have strong stomachs and good circulation, and keep in shape because they are active.
Leo"s cell salt is magnesium phosphate, which keeps the motor nerves in top functioning order and is also necessary to the formation of the skeletal structure. Foods that contain this mineral are whole wheat, almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, figs, lemons, apples, peaches, coconut, rice, seafood, beets and egg yolk. Foods that aid the circulation and have blood-making properties include fresh fruit, salad greens, cheese, whole milk and yogurt.
Leo people should take care of their backs by doing simple strengthening exercises. They must learn how to bend and lift, and never lift anything too heavy. They benefit from developing good posture, getting enough rest and relaxation, and enjoying short periods of sunbathing.
Amorous Zones of Leo
Leo"s sensitive areas are the back and the spine. A simple massage on these areas will thoroughly relax the Leo people.
Career of Leo
Leo is the sign that governs pleasure and creativity. Leos are natural leaders and make their way to head off any organization. They are good in leading positions as MD, CEO, department head, lecturers, actors, artists, writers, athletes, politicians and welfare workers. They do not have much problem in getting acknowledgement and respect wherever they go.
Amorous Nature of Leo
Amorous Nature of Leo is very bold and will leave no doubt to their loved one of their feelings. Extremely forward and self assured in nature they can come across as aggressive in personal relationships. Once in love or committed, Leos are very stubbornly loyal and will do anything to protect and encourage their beloved. They see beauty in life and their excitement is contagious. Honest and hard working, Leos usually make wonderful life partners and wonderful parents.
Amorous Nature of Leo Woman
A Leo woman wants praise and applause. There is something about her flamboyance, her queen like assurance that dazzles and attracts. She has an intense drive toward self-realization. Leo woman feels she was born to be someone special, and she must express this feeling.
A Leo woman in love gives her heart without reservations. Her romantic nature is intense, vital and uninhibited. She does not hold anything back, but by the same token she expects her chosen mate to be just as passionate as she is.
Leo woman thrives in marriage, but her partner may find living with her a bit overwhelming at times. It is not easy being attendant to a queen, and Leo woman can be tyrannical. The worst scenario is when a Leo woman marries a man she can dominate completely. In this relationship, she may get total submission, but that is too little compensation for the full, deep, robust kind of love she needs. When she feels short-changed in love, Leo woman will turn bitter and carping.
Amorous Nature of Leo Man
A Leo man falls in love readily and then finds it hard to sustain the emotion. To him, a love affair is never minor or mild or murky. The woman who wins his favour moves instantly to center stage. The more one is interested in him, the more he will be interested in her, and this will end up in actual sharing.
When a Leo man finds himself in a relationship, he will do anything to show how gallant, confident and powerful he is. This is not something that he does out of insecurity, but something that he finds necessary to seduce the subject of his desire. He will win her over by pointing out his incredible attributes, but turn out to be quite a disappointment if she hopes he will become less selfish.
Leo man likes a woman to cater to his every whim. Underneath Leo"s surface majesty is a sensitive, vulnerable man who needs reassurance and praise. Praise is as necessary to him as food and drink. He is kind, strong, generous, something of a spendthrift, but usually successful in business.
Impressing a Leo
One can always win over anyone born under this sign if they show by their actions, attention and admiration. Leos will never suspect ones sincerity because they think they are fully as wonderful as Leos are. Leos also have a fine sense of humour and love to be entertained. Bear in mind that both male and female Leos think the best is not too good for them.
Compatibility Sigs for Leo
Compatibility Signs for Leo is best with the kind of partner who is willing to take more of a back seat in the relationship and allow Leo to be the star of the show. They love to be flattered, regardless of sincerity and tend to flatter others with statements that are simply not coming from their heart. The most compatible signs with Leo are generally considered to be Aries, Gemini, Libra and Sagittarius. The least compatible signs with Leo are generally considered to be Taurus and Scorpio.
The Compatibility Signs for Leo with other zodiacs are as follows:
Leo and Aries: These two are the superstars of the zodiac. These well-matched partners get along marvellously when they are in love. They also share the same likes and dislikes in other areas of life. However, they need all that rapport to overcome one big problem – the head-on collision of two super egos, each of whom wants to play the leading role.
Leo and Taurus: Leo"s sovereign right to rule runs smack up against Taurus"s determination to have its own way. Both are fixed signs, so neither will give an inch. Leo merely becomes angrier and Taurus more obstinate. Taurus is cautious and deliberate; Leo expansive and extravagant. Taurus stubbornly refuses to give Leo constant worship, and Leo is too self-centred to give Taurus the devotion it needs.
Leo and Gemini: They strike it off immediately because they like so many of the same things – glamorous social life, parties, theatre and lots of friends. Lively, independent Gemini brings out Leo"s enjoyment of life. Leo is more intense than airy Gemini. Life together will be stimulating and exasperating, but the outlook is good if Gemini can stay faithful.
Leo and Cancer: Both are romantics, though in different ways. Leo wants a relationship to be glorious and exciting. Cancer wants it to be meaningful and fulfilling. Leo does not get as overwrought as Cancer, who takes things more seriously. Cancer needs security and tranquility and is a stay-at-home. Leo is energetic and a gadabout who loves to be on constant display. Leo is flamboyant in love, and Cancer is responsive, loyal and intense.
Leo and Leo: When a king and queen are together, heads turn. This couple can have a royal mating. Both are romantic, colourful and exuberant about life. It"s difficult for one Leo to make room for another ego as large as its own. Each not only wants to sit on the throne, each wants to be the power behind it as well. They are grand lovers as well as interesting rivals.
Leo and Virgo: Leo is drawn to Virgo"s intellectualism, but Virgo does not understand Leo"s dramatic nature. Virgo is practical and prudent; Leo is extravagant and a spendthrift. Leo likes to live life in a really big way, but Virgo is conservative, frugal and a faultfinder, which puts a damper on Leo"s high spirits. Leo needs lots of flattery, but Virgo"s tendency is to puncture inflated egos.
Leo and Libra: Leo"s creative side meshes well with Libra"s penchant for artistic and aesthetic pursuits. Libra is indecisive and Leo will naturally take charge. The check-book may not always balance because they are both extravagant and love a beautiful setting in which to shine. Each will also try to outdo the other in order to get attention.
Leo and Scorpio: Leo finds it hard to cope with Scorpio"s jealousy and possessiveness. Intense, smouldering Scorpio is on a too-short fuse, while Leo is much more buoyant. Leo thinks Scorpio is difficult and temperamental; Scorpio considers Leo pretentious and a show-off. Scorpio does not understand Leo"s need to be continually surrounded by an admiring audience. Scorpio would rather dominate than admire, and that does not suit Leo"s kingly state.
Leo and Sagittarius: Leo is enthralled by optimistic, extroverted Sagittarius, and fun-loving Sagittarius is enchanted with Leo"s sunny openness to life. Together they share a liking for freedom, adventure and meeting new people. Both are passionate and if anyone can keep Sagittarius faithful its Leo. Leo"s natural quality of leadership brings out what loyalty Sagittarius can give.
Leo and Capricorn: Leo"s romantic, expansive nature is curbed by cautious, practical Capricorn. Leo likes to kick up its heels, but Capricorn disapproves of too much self-indulgence. Leo will think Capricorn stingy with affection because Capricorn"s reserved, undemonstrative nature cannot give Leo the adoration it needs. Neither will take a back seat nor let the other dominate.
Leo and Aquarius: There is initial attraction between these two, but Aquarius"s tendency to analyze and criticize will shake Leo"s confidence and deflate its ego. Aquarius"s unconventional, experimental approach to love may prove upsetting to Leo, who does not like to wander too far field. Both like socializing and meeting new people, but Leo always needs to perform on center stage, which makes Aquarius impatient and irritable.
Leo and Pisces: Leo is flamboyant, domineering; Pisces is unworldly and mystical. They intrigue each other because they are so different, but the differences do not mesh well. Leo"s active, outgoing nature does not harmonize with Pisces"s dreamy introspection. Leo needs public acclaim, while Pisces prefers the sheltered life.
Gemstones for Leo
The gemstone for Leo is the Peridot. The Zodiac sign of Leo also responds to Onyx, Diamond, Carnelian, Sardonyx and Ruby. Wearing these stones can help enhance the personality of the Leo individual and work on both the positive and negative traits of their nature.