Each zodiac sign rules over certain body parts⁠—here's what that means for you (2024)

Astrology-rooted intel can help us decode whom to love, how to exercise, and even which plants to buy—but when optimized, it can help us learn so much more. For instance, each zodiac sign also connects to an anatomical part, meaning your sun sign may indicate certain physical strengths and weaknesses about who you are and what might be working for you (and not!). Using this framework of body rulership, you can learn what parts of the body the zodiac signs rule.

“Years ago, in order to qualify as an astrologer, you needed to have an education that included the sciences, mathematics, a complete and thorough repertoire of herbs—including which herbs were best for each sign’s ailments—and a thorough understanding of the human anatomy,” says astrologer Carolyne Faulkner, author ofYour Stars.

And although it's ill-advised to abandon professional medical advice in favor of astrology alone, knowing a bit about zodiac body parts might help explain certain gifts you may have and also perhaps some recurring aches and pains.

Below, Faulkner explains the connection between body parts and zodiac signs—and what it may mean for you.

Keep reading for intel about specific zodiac body parts, and what it may mean for you.

Aries: head

Typically, rams think with their horns first and worry about the rest later—and body rulership helps to explain why. Aries rules the head and energy levels, which is why Faulkner suggests that the fire sign cools down with meditation from time to time.

When things are going as according to plan, Aries may enjoy a positive mind-set and a lot of stamina. When things aren't going your way, though? Faulkner says to expect a foggy, tired mind with a side of blotchiness.

Taurus: neck, shoulders

If all is right, Taurus tends to have great upper body strength and an elegant, swan-like swan neck. Otherwise, Faulkner's prognosis is that this fixed sign may have fixed, slumping shoulders to match and plenty of neck pain.

Gemini: throat, lungs, breath

Gemini is known for a certain star quality, so it makes sense that the sign rules the throat, lungs, and breath. Healthy lungs come in handy for belting out those high notes during karaoke night, after all. But, when you're not feeling 100 percent on your game, Gemini? Faulkner says you might experience some shallow breathing when your song comes up next.

Cancer: midsection

“Cancer rules the chest, stomach, womb, and breasts, which means that a positive attitude to the body, reproduction, and parenting—your own or other children⁠—is key,” Faulkner says.

Cancer’s kind and intuitive nature caters to a strong maternal sense with an open chest, great posture, and a bent toward femininity, she adds, noting that stomach pains and tendency to internalize anger could run amok if things aren't well for them.

Leo: heart, upper back

For Leo, "an open heart without expectation of a return is important,” says Faulkner. This could mean you're openhearted, with a flexible upper body, or that you more so skew close-hearted…and may suffer from an overinflated ego, she adds.

Virgo: abdomen, digestive system

“This sign can allow anxiety to fester due to a lack of feeling in control, leading to issues with both [the abdomen and digestive system],” Faulkner says.

What does this mean in practice? According to the astrologer, Virgo probably brings some great meal-prep skills to the table, along with a healthy relationship to food, diet, and fitness matters. But when things are rough for this sign, digestive issues might be written in the stars.

Libra: kidneys, lower-back

“Kidneys work hard and are often unappreciated, which means Libra needs to pay more attention to how they feel on the inside, rather than how they look externally,” Faulkner says. So cut yourself some slack, Libras! If things are good, you'll be beautiful inside and out (largely thanks to those toxin-clearing kidneys). Otherwise, she says, look out for aching lower-back pain and kidney-related issues.

Scorpio: reproductive organs, hips

“Scorpio rules the hips and the genitals, which means hip-opening exercises are valuable, as is a healthy attitude to sex and genital health care,” Faulkner says.

So, stay on top of your routine doctor's appointments and aim to do hip-opening exercises. Otherwise, Faulkner says tight hips from pent-up emotions and less savory reproductive-system-linked issues may be in the future.

Sagittarius: thighs, legs

“Sagittarius rules the thighs and legs, which means exercise is important, as is spending time in the great outdoors,” says Faulkner. It’s all about keeping active, for you, Sag. Stay moving to avoid physical and mental lethargy.

Capricorn: bones, joints

Caps are the rulers of bones, joints, and aging, which means care must be taken at all times for optimum flexibility and dense bones. If not? Potential stiffness and arthritis, Faulkner says.

Aquarius: shins, calves, ankles

Those born under this sign would be wise to engage in some major stretch sessions before yoga (or, really, any kind of active practice) to ensure optimum flexibility. Without stretching, weak ankles—which may be a risk factor for future injuries—might persist, Faulkner says.

Pisces: hands, feet

Last up for zodiac body parts is the twin fish and their hands (or, er, fins?). “Pisces rules the hands and feet, which is why it’s important to heal them in water, with oils, and massage, and exercise, [since these parts are] often overused and don’t rest enough,” Faulkner says of treating the water sign with its natural element.

Another way Pisces can facilitate hands-and-feet self care is to lean into nail care to guarantee all the digits are in tip-top shape. Without taking the time to treat them well, you might see repetitive stress syndrome, bunions, and other foot-related ailments, Faulkner says.