AstroTopics
Health byHoroscope
The habits and soft spots that shape each sign’s wellbeing. A light, traditional look at how every sign tends to its body and energy.
Health · Chinese Horoscope

Year of the Rat
The Rat has a tendency to ignore health problems and wait for them to go
away. This may not be the correct approach: the best thing to do would be
to seek medical attention, or at least the opinion of those who care,
before simple symptoms blossom into full-fledged diseases. Anxiety must be
caressed away and not suppressed until it erupts as bodily discomfort.
The Rat is associated with the Water Element, which accounts for its
traditional connection to the urinary and renal systems, the kidneys and
the bladder. These organs merit special attention, or else an operation to
correct the presence of stones will result at some point later in life. Try
not to cross the line into chronic hypochondria!

Year of the Ox
The health of the Ox person is directly related to the Element of the Ox,
Water. Every Ox should drink plenty of it. The kidneys are also an area
of some risk, so be sure to take the appropriate measures to guard against
stones or incontinence. Prostate trouble may rear its ugly head in those
who have prostate glands. The Ox also has a tendency to become hard of
hearing in their old age.
Exercise is recommended, as Oxen who don't work out can grow fat and lazy
from too many creature comforts. An effort should also be made to overcome
the habit of taciturnity, for it is only by learning to express their inner
feelings that the specter of mental illness can be fully laid to rest. Last
but not least, it is important for the Ox to eat a lot of green, leafy
vegetables.

Year of the Tiger
The Tiger is a formidably healthy Sign. The Tiger's Element, Wood, is
traditionally associated with the liver, so Tigers should pay particular
attention to that organ and perhaps moderate their drinking habits to
forestall a bout of cirrhosis in later life.
Physical activity of all kinds is very important to the Tiger, so exercise
will always be an integral component of their routine, with the focus on
more daring sports like hang-gliding, snowboarding or surfing. These also
allow the release of suppressed emotional tension so crucial to maintaining
that trademark surface calm, without which the Tiger would degenerate into
a jumpy bundle of paranoia and suspicion. A well-exercised Tiger is a happy
beast indeed.

Year of the Rabbit
Rabbit health is mainly a matter of paying strict attention to the liver,
as this organ is traditionally associated with the reigning Rabbit Element
of Wood. The endless round of socializing preferred by members of this Sign
should be monitored closely to make sure that the intake of alcohol (or
less legal stimulants) be kept to a reasonable level, or else the dreary
specter of alcoholism may rear its ugly head later in life.
The tendency to lounge must also be leavened with the occasional spurt of
physical activity (in other words, run, Rabbit, run!) in order to prevent
the sort of figure that is no longer capable of an active social life.
Psychologically speaking, Rabbits should acquire a focus of interest that
allows them to stop dwelling upon their own psyches day in and day out.

Year of the Dragon
The Element of the Dragon is the Wood Element, which is traditionally
associated with the liver. Dragon people ought to monitor closely their
intake of intoxicants in order to avoid serious disease, such as cirrhosis,
in later life. Despite being associated with health and vitality, Dragons
also suffer from insomnia and can develop respiratory problems, such as
asthma or emphysema.
However, since Dragons generally take very good care of themselves,
occasions of illness are kept to a minimum, and when they do fall ill, they
heal very quickly and are back on their feet in no time. When feeling
depressed or vulnerable, Dragons can tend to solace themselves with food,
and should take care not to overindulge for psychological reasons.

Year of the Snake
The Element of the Snake is Fire, which is traditionally associated with
the heart and the intestines. Snakes should take good care of both their
circulatory and their digestive systems. To no one's great surprise, Snakes
are very visceral people, and watch what they eat, or else stomachaches,
diarrhea, heartburn and ulcers may be the inevitable result of unhealthy
eating habits.
Beware rich unfamiliar foods, and avoid drive-throughs and other modern
excuses for proper nutrition. They'll clean you out like a spoonful of
Drano. Snakes need to learn when enough is enough, to control their
sensuous natures and avoid overindulgence, as it will cause more trouble
than it is worth in the long run. They are also somewhat edgy, and as such,
prone to nervous disorders.

Year of the Horse
The Fire Element, traditionally associated with the Sign of the Horse, is
connected to the heart and intestines in the human body. Horses should take
great pains to keep everything connected with these organs systems in
smooth running order, especially by avoiding fatty foods, which can clog
arteries and produce horrific bouts of indigestion. Dieting and regular
exercise schedules are a must!
Horses are very energetic people, and exercise allows them to blow off
steam that would instead be transmuted into suppressed nervous behavior,
which could eventually lead to an entire array of psychosomatic stress
disorders, such as insomnia, constipation, and anorexia nervosa. Chronic
manifestation of these symptoms may require the intervention of a
psychiatrist.

Year of the Goat
The Fire Element is traditionally associated with the heart and intestines,
and since it is also the Elemental characteristic of the Goat Sign, Goats
should pay very close attention to those two organ systems. One might
say, they should listen to their hearts, as well as their guts. Goats
should spend more time preventing illness rather than trying to cure an
illness that has already manifested itself.
Goats are very anxious creatures, and should take care that their habitual
worried nature doesn't worry them into some sort of psychosomatic disease.
They need to relax occasionally, and while they're at it, to avoid
extremes of temperature. Meditation is recommended as a method by which
Goats may achieve peace of mind and focus their energies.

Year of the Monkey
The Metal Element traditionally associated with the Monkey Sign governs the
lungs and the kidneys, and Monkeys should pay extra special care to these
organs in order to avoid health complications later in life. The demands of
the renal system require restrictions upon the consumption of such
substances as coffee and especially salt.
Despite their lack of organized exercise practices, Monkeys are
surprisingly fit body types, and will remain wiry and slim to a great age.
Neglect of a proper diet may result in an unhealthy thinness, whether by
accident or by design. Psychological eating disorders such as anorexia
nervosa may become evident if external pressures in life become too great
for the Monkey mind to withstand.

Year of the Rooster
The Metal Element, most closely associated with the Sign of the Rooster, is
the Element that governs the lungs and kidneys, so Roosters should take
steps to see that these two systems of organs are kept in tip-top shape. A
series of respiratory problems, including but not limited to asthma,
emphysema and tuberculosis, could be in the offing unless certain
preventative measures are taken early in life.
Roosters also need time out to relax and think, and need to slow themselves
down before the stress gets to them. This should supplement, rather than
supersede, a regular exercise program coupled with a sensible diet. Old
Roosters can grow somewhat obese, which will mortify them in public
situations, especially for those critical first impressions.

Year of the Dog
The Metal Element is traditionally associated with the lungs, and since
Dogs are closely associated with the Metal Element, it is necessary for
them to pay careful attention to their lungs in order to avoid respiratory
distress later in life. Dogs who smoke should quite immediately. There is
a tendency for cancer of the indicated area. Insomnia and other stress-related disorders are a hallmark of the ever-neurotic and tense Dog, too.
It is important for members of this Sign to maintain a balanced outlook on
life, so as not to be eaten up with unwonted tension. Generally, their
overall health is quite good and they are accustomed to it, the only
precaution being that they watch what they eat so as not to become
overweight.

Year of the Pig
The traditional Pig Element, Water, is usually associated with the renal
system and bladder in the human body, so Pigs should take care to drink
plenty of water and to watch their salt intake so that they don't develop
stones or urinary tract infections. It is useless to counsel moderation of
diet, as all Pigs, true to their namesake, cannot resist dining
exceptionally well and exceptionally often, so watch out for the inevitable
weight gain!
Perhaps a substitution of healthier foods for those rich in calories, or
the institution of a regular workout program, would help to convert a few
of those unwanted pounds into muscle, or even shed them entirely. Hedonism
will out, and obesity may spell health problems later in life, most notably
heart attacks and strokes.
Health for Western signs
Health · Western Horoscope

Aries
Aries health is generally good, as these are the sorts of people who never
seem to get sick, even in the worst winter weather. Willpower alone seems
to suffice to stave off illness. It is only when their guard is down, due
perhaps to a perceived loss, that the Aries native will succumb to disease,
usually a fever, as befits the cardinal Fire Sign.
Accidents as a result of over-activity are also quite common, and the
rambunctious Aries needs to remember to take the time to stretch carefully
before performing physical exercise. Stress-related symptoms that may occur
in members of this on-the-go Sign include migraine headaches, backaches,
baldness and the inevitable acne. A certain tendency towards epilepsy may
also be noted here, albeit rarely.

Taurus
Taureans in general have an excellent complexion and good skin tone. They
may tend towards the heavy side in terms of weight, but a little exercise
is sufficient to convert this wayward mass into solid muscle. The
internalizing of emotions may serve to cause peptic ulcers over time, or
trigger a severe depression.
The mouth, neck and throat are traditionally associated with this Sign, so
there is a risk of upper respiratory disease ranging from strep throat to
lung cancer. Constipation is also a Taurean risk and may again be
associated with the suppression of negative emotion. Should any serious
injury occur, our good Bull is able to withstand stoically nearly any
amount of pain, and one will never hear complaints from the hospital bed.

Gemini
There is no such thing as an unhealthy Gemini, as long as they have room
to roam and aren't kept confined, either mentally or physically. They are
never truly at rest, but know when to transfer action from the body to the
mind, or vice versa. The arms and hands are the body parts traditionally
associated with this Sign, so beware broken limbs (most likely as the
result of a sporting accident).
There is also a tendency for coughs, colds, and other lung-based
complaints. A Gemini may develop psychosomatic stress disorders (of a
variety of minor types) if they perceive themselves to be tied down to a
particular job or situation that they have ceased to regard as appropriate.
True health is a function of true freedom for these wanderers.

Cancer
Most of the health problems of the Cancer personality are caused by an
excess of worry regarding threats to the hearth and home. Depression may be
the result of lack of attention on the part of their loved ones, but the
real indication of a true health hazard is when Cancerians stop complaining.
They get very stoic when actually ill. Said illnesses seem to center on
the digestive tract, and may also manifest themselves as eating disorders.
The entire alimentary canal is traditionally associated with this Sign, as
well as the uterus for those who have them, so look out for, ahem, cancer
of the related organs. The key to overall good health is plenty of leisure
time in which to truly relax (no passive worrying: clear your mind!), and
preferably on or near the seashore, although in a pinch any sort of water
will do.

Leo
The typical Leo is a happy and healthy sort who would never breathe a word
of complaint against the nature of being. It is only when they are stymied
in their goals, or deprived of emotional feedback, that Leos lose their
habitual goal and become gloomy and withdrawn. Even then it isn't for long,
though. A Leo's woes are more likely to be physical, with high fevers,
sudden illnesses and even more sudden accidents being typical.
Recuperation can often feel like an unwanted weakness to a Leo, so they are
often up and about much sooner than would be medical feasible. But even the
mighty Lion requires a bout of rest once in awhile, so be sure not to push
the needle too far into the red for too long, or something is bound to give
way under such punishment.

Virgo
The lower portion of the alimentary canal, the intestines and colon,
are traditionally associated with the Sign of the Virgin, so Virgos ought
to look out for digestive upsets and drink plenty of water to keep their
system in peak condition. Rectal polyps or colon cancer may be evident in
old age if plenty of fiber isn't consumed in youth. There may also be
troubles with hernias, malnutrition or the lymphatic system as well.
All in all, Virgos are a sturdy bunch with strong inclinations towards
hypochondria, so there may not be anything truly wrong with them. A bit of
encouragement is needed when they're on their sickbed for them to recover
as quickly as possible, as they love being fussed over. Virgos need to
learn how to relax effectively to avoid stress-related symptoms.

Libra
The typical Libran may manifest tendencies towards frequent illness if
obliged to live and work alone for long periods of time. Otherwise, they
are very healthy, and thrive in surroundings that are calm, peaceful and
well decorated. The abdomen and lower back are those portions of the body
traditionally associated with this Sign, and Libras ought to watch out for
back problems in later life, and get plenty of sacroiliac support in the
meanwhile.
The kidneys, liver and skin are also at risk. Whatever the problem, a Libra
will always present a stoic face to the general public, while in private
they prefer to be fussed over and pampered. Such an approach to the
healing process will be sure to have them on their feet in no time.

Scorpio
The bodily regions typically associated with the Sign of the Scorpion
include the legs, feet, spine and reproductive organs, so any major
diseases or injuries will focus around these areas. Scorpios are rarely
ill, but when they are it is almost invariably life threatening. They may
inadvertently bring about the downfall of their own health by being too
hard on themselves, whether mentally or physically.
A series of accidents may become manifest due the Scorpio's incessant
drive, as they are rushing about trying to take care of business. A variety
of other ailments may arise, including nose and throat problems, herniated
discs, hemorrhoids and erectile dysfunction in those equipped with external
genitalia.

Sagittarius
The nates, the pelvis, the thighs and the lumbar vertebrae are all areas of
concern for the health-conscious Sagittarius. Not much concern, though.
The bouncy and energetic life force inherent in these natural athletes is
enough to cure a million cases of the common cold. Rheumatic arthritis is a
common affliction later in life, as are diseases communicable through
animals. Sagittarius people are overly fond of animals and tend to be
closely involved with them in their daily routine.
Asthma may rear its ugly head as well. Sagittarians like to take lots of
risks, so injuries from sporting accidents and the like are unfortunately
very common among members of this Sign. Hedonistic excess in fine food and
drink may also cause digestive problems, or obesity.

Capricorn
The throat, the teeth and the knees are all traditionally associated with
the Sign of the Goat, so special attention should be paid by the Capricorn
native to the maintenance of good oral hygiene. Stretching before exercise
is also important. Sober and temperate in lifestyle, these hardy
individuals are capable of surviving to great ages, if the constant
bugbears of worry, heavy responsibilities and general pessimism don't take
their toll first.
Individuals of this Sign will find that their resistance to disease will
increase as they get older, making them even healthier in their so-called
declining years. Capricorns as children tend to be a bit sedentary. It's
important to instill good physical fitness patterns at an early age to
avoid future problems.

Aquarius
The eyes, the lungs and the ankles are the regions of the body that are
traditionally associated with the Sign of the Water Bearer, so any first
line of defense against affliction for the Aquarius person should be
founded on these principle strong points. Prone to imaginary afflictions
and phobias of every sort, many of the things that ail an Aquarius need
only to dissipate and mysteriously as they arrived, although for the
duration they can cause major discomfort.
Hypnosis may be a suitable cure for psychosomatic disorders characterized
by a great deal of mental activity. In later life, circulatory disorders of
a decidedly real variety may come to pass, and the Aquarius person will be
lucky if they are limited solely to varicose veins in the legs.

Pisces
The glandular system and the feet are the incongruous areas of the body
traditionally associated with the Sign of the Fishes. Piscean natives are
urged to wear comfortable shoes at all times. A Pisces without adequate
outlet for his or her dreams and fantasies may become morbid or withdrawn,
and may take to the excessive consumption of drugs or alcohol in order to
escape from the extreme emotional distress this may engender.
An acute psychological depression may also ensue. The sensitive Piscean
psyche suffers greatly in times of stress and has very few personal
reserves to draw upon to stiffen their resistance. Once ill, it is a long,
hard uphill journey before wellness is again arrived at for the Fishes.
