Confronting Shadows: Exploring the 12th House in Shadow Work
shadow work through the framework of astrology.
The 12th House: Gateway to the Unconscious
In the Hellenistic tradition, the 12th house is often depicted as the abode of hidden enemies, self-undoing, secrets & secret sorrows, and self-sabotaging tendencies. (To name some).
It signifies the murky depths of the psyche where unresolved traumas, futile childhood patterns, buried fears and the unconscious lie dormant, exerting a subtle yet pervasive influence on one's life path.
Self-Undoing and the 12th House
The 12th house can serve as a cosmic mirror of sorts, reflecting back to us the hidden aspects of ourselves that we may prefer to ignore or deny. It reveals the ways in which we may unconsciously sabotage our own happiness and fulfillment, whether through self-destructive behaviours, subconscious patterns, or childhood patterns that have long outlived their usefulness.
WHEN YOU’RE IN A 12TH HOUSE SEASON:
(There are other times that would be considered a 12th house season, such as a 12th house profection year, for example)
During a 12th house season (when the Sun is transiting your natal 12th house), 12th house tendencies/themes may become more pronounced, urging you to confront the shadows within.
Transiting = the sun is moving through that part of your chart
Aries Rising: 12th house season is when the Sun is in Taurus.
Taurus Rising: 12th house season is when the Sun is in Aries.
Gemini Rising: 12th house season is when the Sun is in Taurus.
Cancer Rising: 12th house season is when the Sun is in Gemini.
Leo Rising: 12th house season is when the Sun is in Cancer.
Virgo Rising: 12th house season is when the Sun is in Leo.
Libra Rising: 12th house season is when the Sun is in Virgo.
Scorpio Rising: 12th house season is when the Sun is in Libra.
Sagittarius Rising: 12th house season is when the Sun is in Scorpio.
Capricorn Rising: 12th house season is when the Sun is in Sagittarius.
Aquarius Rising: 12th house season is when the Sun is in Capricorn.
Pisces Rising: 12th house season is when the Sun is in Aquarius.
Exploring Shadow Work via the framework of a 12th House Season:
During a "12th House Season," you’re invited to (metaphorically) journey into your inner world, confront your shadows, explore hidden beliefs and patterns, and emerge with greater self-awareness and understanding.
The 12th house sign, the planet that rules it, and the other sign/house that planet rules provide information as to what remains hidden within you.
Look at the sign, house, and dignity of the ruling planet for more pieces to the puzzle.
This article simply does not cover everything to the finest detail, however. If you’d like to explore this to the fullest extent, can book an astrology reading with me here.
For now, explore shadow work through an astrological lens via your 12th house sign and the other sign/house that planet rules with me below. I also include personalized practices you can use.
If you’d like to read my personal experience on my 12th house season, read my past article titled “Astrological Alchemy & Honouring the Sacred Role of Anger in Healing + Self….”