What is Synastry?

What is Synastry?
Photo by Leah Newhouse
⋅ ⋅ ⋅

Synastry is the art of comparing two birth charts to understand the dynamics of a relationship. In astrology, it reveals how two individuals connect on emotional, mental, and spiritual levels by analyzing planetary aspects, house overlays, and compatibility factors. Whether in love, friendship, or business, synastry helps uncover strengths, challenges, and karmic ties in relationships. This guide will break down the key elements of synastry and how to interpret them.

How to do a Synastry analysis

To analyze synastry, start by overlaying both charts to identify hard aspects. These interactions create dynamic interactions that are strongly experienced in relationships. Squares introduce stimulating challenges that encourage growth, while oppositions highlight contrasts that can generate both magnetism and complexity. Conjunctions amplify planetary influences, shaping key relational themes. Examining these aspects reveals the fundamental dynamics at play.

What the planets mean in Synastry

In synastry, the Sun shapes identity dynamics, while the Moon influences emotional responses. Mercury affects communication styles, and Venus governs love expression. Mars drives passion and motivation. The Ascendant/​Descendant (AC/​DC) axis highlights relational pull, while the Midheaven/​IC (MC/​IC) axis reflects public and private life balance. Jupiter expands experiences, and Saturn establishes stability. Uranus introduces unpredictability and change, Neptune enhances dreams or illusions, and Pluto deepens intensity and transformation.

Other compatibility analysis techniques

While synastry is a powerful tool for relationship analysis, it’s just one of many techniques in astrology. Composite charts merge two birth charts into a single chart, revealing the relationship’s overall purpose and dynamics. Davison charts use a midpoint approach to create a shared chart based on time and space. Progressions and transits show how a relationship evolves over time. By combining these methods, astrologers gain a deeper, more nuanced understanding of compatibility.

Synastry offers deep insight into relationship dynamics by analyzing planetary connections between two birth charts. It reveals how individuals interact, where harmony flows, and where challenges arise. While this article provides an overview, specific aspects shape each connection uniquely. Subsequent articles will explore these aspects in depth, helping you interpret your own relationships with greater clarity. Understanding synastry is a powerful step toward self-awareness and deeper connections.

You may also like

The Shadow Behind the Spotlight: Pluto’s Role in Rewriting a Life Story

The Shadow Behind the Spotlight: Pluto’s Role in Rewriting a Life Story

When one person’s Pluto contacts another’s Midheaven/Nadir axis in synastry, the relationship is rarely casual. This connection suggests a deep transformation linked to career, public image, and private identity. Pluto brings intensity and power, while the MC/IC axis reflects life direction and emotional roots. Together, this synastry stirs major life shifts and brings both gifts and growing pains.

Communicating Across the Horizon: Mercury and the Ascendant/Descendant Axis in Synastry

Communicating Across the Horizon: Mercury and the Ascendant/Descendant Axis in Synastry

When one person’s natal Mercury aligns with another person’s Ascendant/Descendant axis, it highlights a mental connection that influences first impressions, communication styles, and the way they relate to each other. This type of synastry can spark instant recognition or lasting interest. It’s not just about talking—it’s about how someone’s mind resonates with another’s way of being and relating.

The Synastry of Venus and Venus: Harmonious Affection

The Synastry of Venus and Venus: Harmonious Affection

When two people's natal Venus placements interact in synastry, they reveal how they experience love, pleasure, and relationships together. Venus governs attraction, aesthetics, and harmony, so its connection between charts can indicate shared values or differences in romance. A strong Venus-Venus aspect fosters effortless affection, while challenging aspects may bring contrasting desires. Understanding this dynamic helps explain compatibility in love, friendship, and social interactions.

Jupiter-Mars Synastry: The Spark of Growth and Drive

Jupiter-Mars Synastry: The Spark of Growth and Drive

In synastry, the interaction between one person’s Jupiter and another’s Mars creates a powerful dynamic of motivation, adventure, and potential for explosive passion. This connection blends the planet of expansion and belief with the planet of drive and action. When well-aspected, it brings growth through action. When poorly handled, it can lead to impatience or conflict. Understanding both energies is key to harnessing their synergy.

How compatible are you? 💕

Find out with Lani app