Intense self-transformation.
Here’s what to do and not do when you have a Pluto Square Ascendant transit. Below that are some interesting things about this transit.
Avoid During This Transit
- Don’t start big power struggles or get into major arguments- people can seem tougher or more stubborn and things can spiral fast.
- Avoid making huge changes to your appearance or personal style unless you’re 100% sure- it’s easy to feel restless and regret rash decisions later.
- Try not to cut important people out of your life impulsively; what you feel now might not last forever.
- Don’t force situations or try to control everything- sometimes you’ve got to let things unfold naturally, even if it feels uncomfortable.
- Stay away from manipulative behavior or trying to “win” at any cost; it’ll probably backfire.
- Don’t ignore your own needs completely just to keep the peace- you matter, too!
- Avoid re-opening old wounds or digging up the past just to prove a point- this can turn small issues into big ones.
- Don’t overreact if you feel like people are challenging who you are; this is a time of growth, not just conflict.
- Try not to bottle up your feelings- if you need support, talk to someone you trust instead of letting things build up.
- Don’t rush into (or out of) major commitments- wait until the intensity dies down before making life-changing choices.
Do During This Transit
- Work on your self-confidence. This is a good time to face any insecurities or doubts you have about yourself. Address what makes you feel less powerful and start working on it.
- Let go of old habits and identities. Pluto loves transformation. If there are parts of how you present yourself to others that don’t reflect who you really are, now’s a great time to let those go.
- Set healthy boundaries. You’ll notice power struggles or intense people showing up. Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself and draw clear lines when you need to.
- Dig deep emotionally. Therapy, journaling, or just honest conversations can help you uncover things you’re ready to release.
- Embrace change, even if it’s uncomfortable. This transit’s about growth, even if it feels intense. Say “yes” to new experiences that help you grow as a person.
- Focus on empowerment. Do things that remind you of your inner strength, whether that’s exercise, creative projects, or learning something new.
- Re-evaluate relationships. Notice who’s supporting your growth and who’s holding you back. It’s okay to step away from toxic dynamics now.
- Practice patience. Transformation takes time, so don’t rush the process. You’ll come out of this much stronger and more authentic.
- Stay open to feedback. Sometimes other people see what we can’t. Listen to trusted friends, but trust your gut most of all.
- Prioritize self-care. Intense change can be exhausting, so rest, eat well, and give yourself time to chill out.
What’s Interesting About This Transit
- Deep Environmental Shifts: According to “Astrology: Personality and Science” by Hans Eysenck (1978), some astrologers in the 1960s speculated that Pluto squaring the Ascendant can be a time when your physical environment- home, neighborhood, even your city- gets changed in disruptive ways, like sudden construction, strange new neighbors, or geographic relocations beyond your control.
- Unexpected Power Struggles with Strangers: In “Pluto: The Evolutionary Journey of the Soul” by Jeff Green (1985, referencing older texts from the 1950s), there’s mention of Pluto-Ascendant squares opening you up to secret opposition from people you hardly know- like someone at work or a distant relative suddenly becoming an adversary and challenging your reputation or behavior.
- Shadows of Past Lives Emerging: In Dane Rudhyar’s “Interpretation of the Birth Chart” (1969), he cites an earlier tradition that Pluto square the Ascendant can bring karmic debts from past lives into play, where you may unconsciously act out old patterns or meet people you have unresolved history with.
- Hidden Medical Crises: In “Astrology, Karma & Transformation” by Stephen Arroyo (1978, referencing Marc Edmund Jones, 1950s), there’s the idea that a Pluto square to Ascendant may trigger dormant hereditary health issues, especially if there’s family history- sometimes diagnosed late or misunderstood at first.
- Obscure Speech and Communication Issues: From “Astrological Aspects” by Charles E. O. Carter (1967), Pluto-Ascendant squares are sometimes linked to crises around how you express yourself- maybe suddenly developing a stutter, or people misinterpreting your words in a way that feels uncontrollable and frustrating.
- Fascination with the Occult or Taboo: Ronald Davidson’s “The Technique of Prediction” (1942) suggests people with this transit might suddenly find themselves obsessed with taboo subjects- occult studies, conspiracy theories, or family secrets, all surfacing at once, sometimes affecting their outward persona without warning.
- Altered Perception by Animals: In “Astrological World Cycles” by Dane Rudhyar (1950), he notes older European sources reporting that animals- especially pets- may act differently around you during a Pluto-Ascendant square, like becoming aggressive, fearful, or strangely protective, as if sensing your internal shifts.
- Issues with Mirrors and Reflection: Charles Carter also mentions in some mid-century lectures that Pluto squaring the Ascendant can trigger intense reactions to your own reflection or how you see yourself- sometimes, a person doesn’t even recognize their own image, symbolizing a deep, internal transformation projected outward.
- Unusual Legal or Bureaucratic Encounters: From “Predictive Astrology” by Sepharial (1954 edition), this transit can bring obscure legal or administrative entanglements- like being mistakenly identified, having your records confused, or becoming involved in someone else’s lawsuit, sometimes without clear resolution until the transit passes.
Experiencing This Transit
A Pluto square to your natal Ascendant is no joke- it often feels like something deep and powerful is pushing you to change the way you present yourself to the world. This isn’t exactly a comfortable process, but it’s definitely meaningful. Your relationships, self-image, and even your physical body can go through big shifts, sometimes feeling like everything’s out of your control.
Challenges during this transit
- Power struggles: You might find that people are either pushing your buttons or trying to dominate you, especially in close relationships. You could suddenly notice hidden agendas everywhere.
- Identity crisis: Things about yourself that you thought were set might start to feel shaky. You could feel disconnected from who you used to be, almost like you’re wearing a mask that no longer fits.
- Unwanted attention: Sometimes you get dragged into drama or conflict without even meaning to- especially with authority figures, family, or whoever’s “across” from your Ascendant.
- Physical symptoms: Some people get worn out, edgy, or deal with stress-related issues on the face, head, or jaw (think: teeth-grinding at night!).
- Old wounds resurfacing: Past hurts related to how others see you might come back. Maybe you get reminded of how you were treated or misunderstood in the past.
Opportunities during this transit
- Major self-transformation: If you’re up for it, Pluto square your Ascendant can help you shed a “skin” and reinvent yourself. You get the chance to figure out which parts of your personality are real and which ones just don’t fit anymore.
- Courage to face the truth: You might see things about yourself (and how others see you) that are hard to accept, but facing them is a shortcut to real strength and authenticity.
- Stronger boundaries: Dealing with other people’s power trips forces you to assert yourself better. You learn how to stand up for your needs without steamrolling (or being steamrolled by) others.
- New, deeper relationships: Sometimes the drama clears out shallow connections and attracts more loyal, true-blue friends or partners into your life, even if there’s some rocky stuff at first.
- Reclaiming your story: Since this transit often changes how you’re seen, it’s a great time to control your own narrative. You decide what you want to show the world and what needs to stay private.
How the Sign of Transiting Pluto Modifies This Transit Square to Natal Ascendant
Read the one for the current sign of transiting Pluto.
- Transiting Pluto in Aries: Power struggles might show up fast and furious. You could feel more driven to break out on your own, but clashes with others are sharp and direct.
- Transiting Pluto in Taurus: Changes tend to affect your sense of stability or finances. You might feel forced to let go of old habits around security and get real about your values.
- Transiting Pluto in Gemini: The intensity comes through communication. Arguments, secrets or manipulation in conversations can come to the front. Watch out for mind games.
- Transiting Pluto in Cancer: Family power dynamics get deep. Issues from the past or your roots might get stirred up, forcing you to look at emotional patterns and attachments.
- Transiting Pluto in Leo: Ego battles are strong. Authority struggles, pride, and the need to be seen can make interactions dramatic. Creative self-expression takes on major importance.
- Transiting Pluto in Virgo: Perfectionism and control issues pop up in small details. You might get obsessed with organizing your world or find tension in everyday routines or work.
- Transiting Pluto in Libra: Relationships are ground zero for transformation. Intense dynamics with partners or close friends can bring out imbalances in harmony or fairness.
- Transiting Pluto in Scorpio: Deep emotions and secrets surface. This feels extra intense- power games, trust issues, or deep psychological stuff comes into focus with others.
- Transiting Pluto in Sagittarius: Conflicts might center on beliefs or freedom. You might feel pushed to challenge your worldview, get into philosophical debates, or release old opinions.
- Transiting Pluto in Capricorn: The power plays get structured and practical. This can affect your career, authority figures, and systems you rely on, making you question where you fit in.
- Transiting Pluto in Aquarius: The focus is on groups, the future, and innovation. You might need to break free from group pressure or face intense situations connected with your social circles.
- Transiting Pluto in Pisces: Emotions and boundaries blur; you might pick up on heavy vibes from others. This could be a spiritual or artistic transformation, but it’s easy to get lost in confusion or escapism.