What Does the Sixth House Represent in Astrology? Interpreting Your Sixth House

Co-authored by Angel Eyedealism and Madeleine Criglow

Last Updated: March 1, 2022 References

All of the 12 houses of astrology have something to teach you, and the Sixth House is here to help you take care of your mind and body. Often referred to as the House of Health and Work, the Sixth House symbolizes your routine and the ways you take care of yourself. Want to know how the Sixth House will affect you? Read on for everything you need to know, including what the Sixth House represents in astrology and how it influences each sign.

Section 1 of 3:

What is the Sixth House in astrology?

The Sixth House is the House of Health and Work. This house represents the responsibilities in your everyday life, like holding a job, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining an exercise routine. Since these things don't always go according to plan, the Sixth House also symbolizes unforeseen circumstances, like illness and unemployment. This house encourages you to reflect on your routine and prepare for the unexpected as the healthiest version of yourself.^{[1]
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- The Sixth House also represents things like pets, acts of service, and self-care.
- Search online for a free birth chart calculator to find where the Sixth House is located in your birth chart.^{[2]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Angel Eyedealism
  Astrologer & Performance Artist
  Expert Interview. 8 December 2021.} This can give you more insight into how the Sixth House affects you.
- You should know the time, date, and place of your birth to find out any planetary placement.^{[3]
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  Expert Source
  
  Angel Eyedealism
  Astrologer & Performance Artist
  Expert Interview. 8 December 2021.}
- You can even consult an astrologer to know your Sixth House.^{[4]
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  Expert Source
  
  Angel Eyedealism
  Astrologer & Performance Artist
  Expert Interview. 8 December 2021.}

Section 2 of 3:

What rules the Sixth House?

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The Sixth House is ruled by Mercury. This is the planet of communication, problem-solving, and reason. Its rule over the Sixth House encourages you to think about how you communicate with people and make plans in your day-to-day life. It also calls you to reflect upon the details to make sure everything is accounted for in your routine (from remembering deadlines to making sure your cat is fed).^{[5]
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- Mercury's rule motivates you to read over work emails and written documents before you hit send, for example.
- Mercury also guides you to recognize your priorities. If you've overcommitted yourself, Mercury's influence will help you determine what needs to stay on your to-do list and what can be saved for another day.
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The Sixth House is also ruled by Virgo. This zodiac sign is characterized by reliability, responsibility, and a dedication to self-improvement. Virgo's rule over the Sixth House calls you to practice healthy habits and always strive to be the best version of yourself. Its influence also encourages you to pay close attention to the details so that you can do good work and serve others effectively.^{[6]
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- If you've been going out a lot lately, for example, Virgo's influence will help you know when it's time to take a break and plan a restful night in.
- Virgo also motivates you to set goals and work towards reaching them. If you'd like to go back to school, for example, Virgo's effect on the Sixth House will call you to research programs, print out applications, and make it happen.

Section 3 of 3:

Zodiac Signs in the Sixth House

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Aries in the Sixth House: You possess an unparalleled ability to work towards your goals. When Aries is in the Sixth House, you likely have the ability to set high standards for yourself, whether that be in work or your exercise regimen. Just make sure you stop to relax every now and then to recharge. Otherwise, you might risk overworking yourself.
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Taurus in the Sixth House: You have a unique appreciation for beauty and sensuality in your day-to-day life. You'll thrive if you make time for something beautiful each and every day, whether that be a lovely nature walk or a film that makes you happy. Try your best to keep a regular schedule (especially concerning your diet and exercise routine), as this can help you feel grounded.
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Gemini in the Sixth House: You have a world of ideas and thoughts going on inside you at all times. Keep yourself from getting stressed or worried about your thoughts by writing them down or getting them out in a creative outlet. As an air sign that likes to talk out your ideas, you'll thrive if you make time for plans with friends or phone calls with family in your schedule.
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Cancer in the Sixth House: As a very caring and sensitive sign, you're often wrestling with a lot of deep feelings. To avoid getting overwhelmed, add a relaxing activity like journaling or meditation to your schedule. This will keep your mind calm and ready to take on each day. If you find yourself putting off your responsibilities (like cleaning the house), remember that getting things done can help calm your mind.
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Leo in the Sixth House: You bring joy and fun wherever you go. When Leo is in the Sixth House, you likely feel most fulfilled when you're able to play (even as an adult). You might consider working with kids as a career or simply making time for a playful and sporty hobby in your weekly routine.
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Virgo in the Sixth House: You're a natural at creating a productive, efficient routine (your sign rules the Sixth House, after all). One thing you might forget to add to your routine is relaxation, and it may be the thing you need most. Remember that it's okay to kick back and get some rest.
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Libra in the Sixth House: You strive to achieve harmony with others at work and in your everyday life. As the peacemaker of the zodiac, remember that you've also got to find peace within yourself. Take some time for yourself each week to recharge. You might try going on a walk, listening to your favorite album, or taking a peaceful drive.
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Scorpio in the Sixth House: You're no stranger to intense emotions, and you bring this intensity to your work each day. If you find yourself getting obsessed or losing sight of other things that matter to you, make some adjustments to your schedule. Keeping regular plans with friends or giving yourself time to practice your hobbies will help you remember that work isn't everything.^{[7]
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Sagittarius in the Sixth House: You are naturally adventurous, and you're likely the most forward-thinking in your workplace. You'll benefit from a job that allows you some freedom and independence in your schedule. If this isn't feasible, incorporate some time for experimentation and fun in your free time (like a spontaneous day trip or an adventurous new recipe).
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Capricorn in the Sixth House: You are hard-working and dedicated. When Capricorn is in the Sixth House, you possess a strong ability to achieve your goals and advance in your career. You'll be happiest if you allow others to reach their goals alongside you. Help others when you can and be open to collaboration.^{[8]
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Aquarius in the Sixth House: You strive to make the world a better place one step at a time. To remain positive and stay motivated, pay attention to your emotions and when you might be feeling a little down. If your work is leaving you drained, take a break and try doing something creative (like painting a picture or doodling in your notebook).
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Pisces in the Sixth House: You are a very empathetic person, which is a huge strength. If you ever feel like others' emotions are starting to cloud your own, that's a sign you need to set some stronger boundaries. Let yourself say no to going out every now and then in favor of getting some sleep and watching a comforting movie.

Expert Q&A

Question

What are the characteristics of Gemini?

Angel Eyedealism
Astrologer & Performance Artist
Angel Eyedealism is an Astrologer and Performance Artist based in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. With nearly three decades of astrology experience, Angel specializes in relocation astrology and astrocartography. Eyedealism has been featured in numerous media outlets such as Vogue, Cosmopolitan, The Atlantic, The Washington Post, Refinery29, NBC, MTV, Showtime, and Bravo. Angel aims to help others through a straightforward, kind, and humorous astrological lens, utilizing her entertainment and singing skills for performance art astrology readings.

Angel Eyedealism

Astrologer & Performance Artist

Expert Answer

Geminis change their mind very often. Gemini is an air sign and has to be intellectually engaged. They want to have a sense of freedom.
Question

What are the distinctive qualities of Aries?

Angel Eyedealism
Astrologer & Performance Artist
Angel Eyedealism is an Astrologer and Performance Artist based in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. With nearly three decades of astrology experience, Angel specializes in relocation astrology and astrocartography. Eyedealism has been featured in numerous media outlets such as Vogue, Cosmopolitan, The Atlantic, The Washington Post, Refinery29, NBC, MTV, Showtime, and Bravo. Angel aims to help others through a straightforward, kind, and humorous astrological lens, utilizing her entertainment and singing skills for performance art astrology readings.

Angel Eyedealism

Astrologer & Performance Artist

Expert Answer

Aries people are straightforward and like challenges. Aries women have a liking for powerful men.