Astrotheme
A New Approach to Astrology

Zodiacal Gift Hunting

Disclaimer: with astrology, it is possible to decipher our behaviour or to get a glimpse of the future. This is a theory which cannot be systematically tested. On the other hand, one may wish to follow an easier path, which puts into practice the principles listed in astrology textbooks. In a way, this is precisely the type of practical exercises that we suggest in this Lifestyle column.

We recommend that you follow our advice with both a light and observing mind. Beyond entertainment, the aim is to understand how each of us behaves in various fields; thus, we can better define and fathom, by deduction, how we have developed our natal predispositions. In addition, why wouldn't we be able to guess the talent(s) which we could harness in the future, according to our astrological profile.

The following information is given for signs in their purest form. Depending on the case, it is advisable that you check your planetary dominant or the sign of your Ascendant, the position, quality and aspects of the significators of the area involved, and if applicable, the position of the planets associated with it. For instance, for family affairs, examine the 4th House and its ruler, as well the Moon; for romance, examine the 5th House and its ruler, as well as Venus, etc.

The large number of books we have read, and more particularly, the experience we have drawn from the study of thousands of charts, urge us to be cautious. However, we thought that it may be interesting to provide a few concrete indications, which will turn out to be accurate, quite often.

You can also read dozens additional lifestyle articles on different topics.

Aries, Aries rising, Mars dominant, or strong 1st House

Those who offer you a present quickly know how you feel because you are so expressive! In order to please you, if they shop at a sport department, they will make a good guess. You are fond of jogging equipment, ski clothing, or boxing gloves. Along the same vein, the latest fashionable sneakers, a flying jacket, or anything in leather match Aries' style. You are individualistic, and you enjoy personalised gifts. Nothing is more boring than banal purchases such as perfume or chocolate. Unless it is tailor-made, because your tastes are very fixed. Besides, according to the principle that one is never best served than by oneself, you often think that you are best placed to choose your best gift!

Zodiacal gift hunting for Aries, Aries rising, Mars dominant, or strong 1st House

What about the Aries child? He would love a bicycle, but a mountain bike, a pair of skis or, as far as electronic games are concerned, he will appreciate "Cars 2", or a soccer game such as for instance that of the FIFA, in order to get immersed in the Brazilian atmosphere. As for girls, why not get in from Disney with "Brave"?

You will find on Astrotheme thousands of natal charts of celebrities who have the Sun in Aries, Aries rising, or Mars dominant. The former are sorted in popularity order, whereas the latter are sorted according to the strongest dominant. Since each planet also rules a House – sometimes two houses – you may want to also look at charts having a strong 1st House.

Taurus, Taurus rising, Venus dominant, or strong 2nd House

You are well-connected to the material world, and you are very fond of gifts that are noticeable, above all everything that can be touched and consumed. With you, it is theoretically possible to indulge in anything related with sensual pleasures. But be cautious, for Taurus can be easily offended. Therefore, don't choose the easy way. You obviously prefer regional specialities such as a gourmet hamper, or a sophisticated coffee maker. Wine is also one of your passions, with a preference for full-bodied Bordeaux. When it comes to perfumes, you like glamorous signatures such as "Chanel N° 5", "La petite robe noire" by Guerlain, or "Joy" by Patou, reinvented. Since your throat is fragile, a cashmere or Hermθs scarf will not leave you indifferent.

Zodiacal gift hunting for Taurus, Taurus rising, Venus dominant, or strong 2nd House

The Taurus child is a precocious bon viveur. No need to look for cutting-edge technology. Playmobil toys, Barbie dolls or Corolle babies will be greatly appreciated. And good old Monopoly game may reveal quite rapidly his banker skills.

You will find on Astrotheme thousands of natal charts of celebrities who have the Sun in Taurus, Taurus rising, or Venus dominant. The former are sorted in popularity order, whereas the latter are sorted according to the strongest dominant. Since each planet also rules a House – sometimes two houses – you may want to also look at charts having a strong 2nd House.

Gemini, Gemini rising, Mercury dominant, or strong 3rd House

You are playful by nature, and you want your gift to be synonymous with exchange. It does not have to be a nice precious but fragile object, even less so if it is bulky. It must sparkle and spread joy! Books are always a good bet, as well as the accessories that you take along whenever you feel like it. Since communication is a must for you, you will appreciate a nice case for your mobile phone, or an iPad, or any object enabling you to listen to music, or the latest camera, in order to reveal the reporter hidden in you. You will also like a subscription to a collective sport activity, or to theatre plays. The possibilities are as numerous as your tastes are eclectic!

Zodiacal gift hunting for Gemini, Gemini rising, Mercury dominant, or strong 3rd House

The Gemini child is easy to please, for he loves to play. He fancies himself in adolescence, his favourite age, in which he often remains for an extended period of time. Therefore, try those hi-tech games that are practiced in group, for instance the latest Wii, or the games that come with it such as "Pikmin 3", "The adventures of Super Mario", or in a quite different style, "World of Warcraft".

You will find on Astrotheme thousands of natal charts of celebrities who have the Sun in Gemini, Gemini rising, or Mercury dominant. The former are sorted in popularity order, whereas the latter are sorted according to the strongest dominant. Since each planet also rules a House – sometimes two houses – you may want to also look at charts having a strong 3rd House.

Cancer, Cancer rising, the Moon dominant, or strong 4th House

The very fact that someone thinks of you touches you deeply. You may be the type of person who gets watery eyes as you discover the present under the nice wrapping paper. In extreme cases, you interpret the intentions behind this gift. The best way to delight you is to conjure up childhood memories. Here are a few good hints: a rare and personal photo in a beautiful frame, a potpourri recalling your favourite fragrance, a comfortable angora sweater, a paisley blanket in which you can curl up. In addition, you prefer things that last for a long time, with the exception of the delicacies which can also offer some solace.

Zodiacal gift hunting for Cancer, Cancer rising, the Moon dominant, or strong 4th House

What a dreamer, the Cancer child! Therefore, he appreciates anything enabling him to escape into an enchanted world. That of Disney is meant for him. The good news is that they offer a collection of figurines which come alive in a video game.

You will find on Astrotheme thousands of natal charts of celebrities who have the Sun in Cancer, Cancer rising, or the Moon dominant. The former are sorted in popularity order, whereas the latter are sorted according to the strongest dominant. Since each planet also rules a House – sometimes two houses – you may want to also look at charts having a strong 4th House.

Leo, Leo rising, the Sun dominant, or strong 5th House

You are not the type of person who can be satisfied with ordinary gifts. If you are a woman, you are deeply convinced that diamonds are your best friends. If you are a man, luxury-branded watches will please you. The panoply to enumerate is wide and resembles Harrods' accessories department, or its sophisticated goods, if you get the idea. Silk, cashmere, branded bags, expensive shoes, or even yachts or racing cars, there are no limitations! However, should you have to settle for less, you still want at least something original, for instance a ticket for an exclusive concert requiring several hours of research or wait. Holidays in a 5 star hotel suit perfectly, of course. When people tell you that it is easy with you...

Zodiacal gift hunting for Leo, Leo rising, the Sun dominant, or strong 5th House

What about the Leo child? Contenting him may lead to the family's ruin. At random, a few examples of what he likes: branded sportswear, those associated with movie or soccer stars, the latest electronic gadgets, and must-have games, even though he does not acknowledge that he badly needs an Aquarius buddy to explain their subtleties.

You will find on Astrotheme thousands of natal charts of celebrities who have the Sun in Leo, Leo rising, or the Sun dominant. The former are sorted in popularity order, whereas the latter are sorted according to the strongest dominant. Since each planet also rules a House – sometimes two houses – you may want to also look at charts having a strong 5th House.

Virgo, Virgo rising, Mercury dominant, or strong 6th House

It is both very simple and very complicated to please you. To begin with, out-of-proportions attentions may make you feel uneasy. Indeed, you are modest, and you do not want the giver to break his piggy bank for you. If you can overcome this first reaction, you will appreciate anything matching the adjective "practical". A piece of clothing? Yes, but the raincoat that you need. Electronics? Then if possible, a portable computer helpful for your daily activities. A subscription for a show. If it enhances your general knowledge, fine! And of course, anything related to meticulous do-it-yourself or hand-made works suits you perfectly well.

Zodiacal gift hunting for Virgo, Virgo rising, Mercury dominant, or strong 6th House

The Virgo child is not too difficult, and within a group, he will often decipher the instructions manual. He is serious and does not like futile items, even during early childhood, and he is always thirsty for learning. Educational games, whether classical or in video, are great, especially when the topic deals with science, climate, fauna, or seeds to be germinated and observed.

You will find on Astrotheme thousands of natal charts of celebrities who have the Sun in Virgo, Virgo rising, or Mercury dominant. The former are sorted in popularity order, whereas the latter are sorted according to the strongest dominant. Since each planet also rules a House – sometimes two houses – you may want to also look at charts having a strong 6th House.

Libra, Libra rising, Venus dominant, or strong 7th House

With you, one ought to pay special attention to the package. Indeed, it is the main thing that may win your little heart! You fall for anything beautiful, carefully presented, which thus reflects all the love showered on you. Tiffany commercials match your concept of ideal gifts: a man, a woman, a city buried in snow. You definitely are a romantic soul... It is obvious that gestures are loaded with affectivity. Nonetheless, you are fond of luxury items such as jewellery or nice cufflinks. Whether a woman or a man, you are deeply charmed by elegance and values. In some cases, you may be a bit snobbish, but more often than not, classical gifts delight you. Pralines, a scented candle, and Christmas is at your door!

Zodiacal gift hunting for Libra, Libra rising, Venus dominant, or strong 7th House

In this area, the Libra child is already a mini-adult. He wants fashionable gifts so that he can enjoy them with his friends. At Disney's, Libra girls love all the princesses, of course, while Libra boys fancy themselves as a hero such as Batman for instance.

You will find on Astrotheme thousands of natal charts of celebrities who have the Sun in Libra, Libra rising, or Venus dominant. The former are sorted in popularity order, whereas the latter are sorted according to the strongest dominant. Since each planet also rules a House – sometimes two houses – you may want to also look at charts having a strong 7th House.

Scorpio, Scorpio rising, Pluto dominant, or strong 8th House

What do you appreciate in a gift? Its mystery, of course. You want it to be different, and it could be a small parcel hidden in a corner, or offered in secrecy. Actually, you may feel a bit embarrassed if someone watches when you open it. It must be carefully chosen according to your tastes. Since you are not superficial at all, you expect the giver to know your musical preferences – which are very specific – as well as your favourite clothes and accessories. An artistic object, such as an African mask or an abstract painting will also please you. Since you are interested in self-knowledge, you will adore a serious book, for instance on Egyptian pharaohs, or on detective works, or on science-fiction.

Zodiacal gift hunting for Scorpio, Scorpio rising, Pluto dominant, or strong 8th House

Is the Scorpio child difficult? No, just demanding. He often cared to give clues on what he would really like, and he expects that you thoroughly ponder over the matter. Magician kits are among the best choices, but if he is fond of electronic games, consider strategy or fight games, for instance "League of Legends", an online multi-players battle arena.

You will find on Astrotheme thousands of natal charts of celebrities who have the Sun in Scorpio, Scorpio rising, or Pluto dominant. The former are sorted in popularity order, whereas the latter are sorted according to the strongest dominant. Since each planet also rules a House – sometimes two houses – you may want to also look at charts having a strong 8th House.

Sagittarius, Sagittarius rising, Jupiter dominant, or strong 9th House

As you are a bon viveur, you are fond of presents, of course! The more numerous and the more different they are, and the more they prove that you are both sociable and mobile. Indeed, you wear your heart on your sleeve: bursts of laughter guaranteed, most often. Depending on your profile, one may opt for conventional gifts, i.e. good food, vintage wines, or shiny and designer accessories. If you are more rebellious, you are most likely to appreciate what belongs to the adventurer's panoply. It ranges from a gorgeous book on ethnic art, faraway countries, the African fauna, to Indiana Jones' hat. But maybe nothing will gladden you more than a plane ticket to the end of the world or, at least, a getaway in a palace abroad.

Zodiacal gift hunting for Sagittarius, Sagittarius rising, Jupiter dominant, or strong 9th House

Always on the go, the Sagittarius child enjoys anything related to his favourite activity. It may be horse riding, but also all sports requiring dexterity such as ice-skating or surf. Since he is sociable, a Pictionary, or a console for multi-player games will get it spot-on.

You will find on Astrotheme thousands of natal charts of celebrities who have the Sun in Sagittarius, Sagittarius rising, or Jupiter dominant. The former are sorted in popularity order, whereas the latter are sorted according to the strongest dominant. Since each planet also rules a House – sometimes two houses – you may want to also look at charts having a strong 9th House.

Capricorn, Capricorn rising, Saturn dominant, or strong 10th House

The concept of sustainable gifts must have been invented by you. This is obvious, just looking at your disapproving face as you watch the heaps of paper and ribbons thrown to the waste basket, or worse, the gifts recycled on the Net! Having said this, you appreciate it if a genius managed to find the object that you need. It may be some very beautiful clothing that you will wear for years, a rare book hunted at a flea market, or a piece of furniture manufactured by a skilled cabinet-maker. One can easily notice that you loathe consumerism and zapping. To make the good choice, one should know you well or opt for something useful. For instance, all the tools which enable to work better, whether with your hands or with computers.

Zodiacal gift hunting for Capricorn, Capricorn rising, Saturn dominant, or strong 10th House

The Capricorn child is shy or secretive, and does not easily reveal what he covets. But once he likes a gift, you can rest assured that he will take good care of it and that he will use it properly. Since he is quite independent, he is most likely to prefer an individual toy, a book or an educational game enabling him to imagine the world of adults.

You will find on Astrotheme thousands of natal charts of celebrities who have the Sun in Capricorn, Capricorn rising, or Saturn dominant. The former are sorted in popularity order, whereas the latter are sorted according to the strongest dominant. Since each planet also rules a House – sometimes two houses – you may want to also look at charts having a strong 10th House.

Aquarius, Aquarius rising, Uranus dominant, or strong 11th House

Wow! What a crazy stuff! No one will be astonished to hear you exclaim or express aloud what you think as you discover your gift, which by the way should be modernity-oriented. Everyone knows that you are the king or the queen of gadgets. This makes the choice easier, because the more eccentric it is, the more chances it has to excite you. You are probably among the first people who adopted a Kindle tablet so as to read wherever you are, or who brought back from Asia a telephone sending voice-dictated SMS, or softwares for multilingual sleights of hand, or for Photoshop. You even impatiently expect to receive the first 3D printer-made material gift.

Zodiacal gift hunting for Aquarius, Aquarius rising, Uranus dominant, or strong 11th House

The Aquarius child most often shelters a little devil willing to try his hand at everything. If you do not fear the consequences, offer him the apprentice sorcerer's kit that he dreams of. And of course, he is fascinated by anything hi-tech. This year, he needs to get the latest version of the video game "Call of Duty" for instance.

You will find on Astrotheme thousands of natal charts of celebrities who have the Sun in Aquarius, Aquarius rising, or Uranus dominant. The former are sorted in popularity order, whereas the latter are sorted according to the strongest dominant. Since each planet also rules a House – sometimes two houses – you may want to also look at charts having a strong 11th House.

Pisces, Pisces rising, Neptune dominant, or strong 12th House

Although an ethereal being, the creature marked by this sign does not look down on presents. On the contrary, the Venusian streak is fully active here. Therefore, aesthetics is a prominent criterion, and to begin with, presentation. The gift should be light, aerial, almost unreal. A jewel is always appreciated, or a flimsy chiffon dress, and why not, beautiful ankle boots, for both women and men, since the foot is your soft spot. Poetry is another option, whether complementary or not. For instance, a book on fine arts, or a ticket for a ballet performance. Or also the work of a musician who loves rhythms or mind-blowing, or mysterious sounds. And in the same vein, a sea-water spa will be very welcome!

Zodiacal gift hunting for Pisces, Pisces rising, Neptune dominant, or strong 12th House

The Pisces child is sensitive and dreaming. He often needs to express his artistic talents. Offering him an instrument such as a guitar or a piano may be an excellent incentive. Girls may practice classical ballet, for the tutu, of course. Since they are loners, Pisces boys may prefer to immerse himself in a book or an electronic game stimulating their imagination.

You will find on Astrotheme thousands of natal charts of celebrities who have the Sun in Pisces, Pisces rising, or Neptune dominant. The former are sorted in popularity order, whereas the latter are sorted according to the strongest dominant. Since each planet also rules a House – sometimes two houses – you may want to also look at charts having a strong 12th House.