As astrologers, we often get asked questions like “Am I a good match with a Scorpio?” or “How do a Virgo and an Aquarius go together?” Truth is, while Sun sign astrology can definitely explain dynamics, the whole chart — where ALL the planets are — tells the full story. One of the biggest compatibility determiners is not the Sun sign, but the Moon. Knowing your and your partner’s Moon signs can help you work through emotional and intimate dynamics that arise in every relationship. We believe that people who share a Moon sign are kindred spirits, often soul mates — or at least, from the same soul circle.

Why is the Moon so important? While the Sun moves into a new sign every month, the Moon moves every two to three days. The Sun is how we express ourselves outwardly. The Moon indicates who we are inside. It shapes our needs, desires and emotional responses. For example, we are gregarious Sagittarians, but we have a private Scorpio Moon. So while we may be outgoing and exuberant among friends, when it comes to more personal situations, like relationships and revealing our deep, dark secrets, we definitely act more like Scorpios ...only the truly trustworthy gain trespass! On the flip side, we have a Taurus friend whose Leo Moon makes her far less reserved than the average Bull. She openly shares her struggles and emotional journey on her blog and Facebook page — something our Scorpio Moon shudders even considering!

To interpret your Moon sign, you can read up about the qualities of that sign, but apply them to your emotions, love life and needs. An Aries Moon would have the traits of Aries — leadership, initiative, courage and a bit of a selfish streak — which would show in the way she interacts with others and behaves in a relationship (or avoids them). You can imagine how an independent Aries Moon might go with a Cancer Moon that likes cutesy-wootsy nicknames, coddling and tons of reassurance. So even if the Sun signs match up “perfectly,” according to conventional Western astrology, there still may be deeper dynamics to navigate.

Of course, this doesn’t mean you should break up with someone just because your Moon signs aren’t an easy match. Perhaps you’ve chosen one another as an opportunity to learn and grow. Knowing what you need AND what your love interest needs is the first step to fulfillment, after all.

Check out myLifetime’s Moon sign calculator to find out where the Moon is in your chart!