by Meghan Rizzo

Created on: February 04, 2009   Last Updated: November 10, 2009

Aquarius (January 21 February 19) is represented by the water bearer and ruled by the planet Uranus. Because of its symbolic representation and the presence of the prefix 'aqua,' many assume that Aquarius is a Water Sign, but this is inaccurate; Aquarius is an Air Sign.

The influence of the Air element results in the Aquarian having an unpredictable sort of energy, as erratic as the wind itself. At the very core of the Aquarian personality lies an interesting contradiction: on the outside, Aquarians can seem very straight-laced, but behind the facade (which they adopt not to deceive, but rather to be able to function in a society that favors those who follow a certain, predictable path), exists a startlingly rebellious spirit.

While most Aquarians will lead relatively 'normal' lives, they have the odd ability to engage in some fairly outrageous behavior without anyone raising an eyebrow. Picture your mild-mannered accountant with the wife, 2.5 children, and suburban home with the white picket fence. Now imagine him spending his free time running an online support group for alien abductees. To many, such a hobby would certainly be perceived as eccentric, but because the Aquarian pursues it on his own time, he is able to seamlessly incorporate it into his life without ruffling any feathers. Such is the nature of Aquarius.

Aquarians, along with the other Air Signs (Gemini and Libra), are intellectuals and they love to share and exchange knowledge with others. They are talkative and love a friendly argument. In such situations, the Aquarian will often assume the role of devil's advocate. He does this not to be oppositional, but because he knows that this will incite passion in others and make them more likely to elaborate on their opinions. It is in this way that he is best able to see both sides of the argument, and thus expand his own knowledge on the topic at hand. This can be maddening to the individual involved in the argument, desperately trying to be heard and understood when, all the while, the Aquarius does understand far better than he is letting on.

Aquarians have an affinity and a knack for technology. While it is common for senior citizens to resist the changes associated with the digital age, older Aquarians will eagerly make the effort to learn the latest modes of communication. If you notice an elderly woman deftly tapping away on her Blackberry or passing her time with a handheld video game, you can probably assume that she is an Aquarius. These are people who are truly appreciative of the conveniences and amusement offered by modern technological advances. They look forward to the future and strive to be a part in making sure that future is a bright one.

In relationships, Aquarians can be difficult to read. They sometimes come off as cold or aloof because, as Air Signs, they've often got their heads in the clouds and seem to operate on a different wavelength than others. The most frustrating Aquarian trait, especially for a lover, is inattentiveness. Those closest to the Aquarius might have to learn to demand attention. Being spontaneous, up to date on current events, and slightly unpredictable are good ways to pique the Aquarian's interest and bring his wandering mind into the present.

Aquarians are great company, friendly, intelligent, and delightfully quirky. Though they are most compatible with the other Air signs, particularly in romantic relationships, anyone with an open mind can benefit from an Aquarian's friendship.

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