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Did you know that there is an astrology associated with turning 21? In some cultures such as in the United States, there are specific ages that are very important and 21 just so happens to be one of them. The age of 21 in some cultures such as the United States marks the beginning of adulthood. While astrologically adulthood is represented by the Saturn Return that occurs between the ages of 28-30, socially in some cultures the age of 21 signifies adulthood. Thus, it is interesting that the social introduction to adulthood at the age of 21 also aligns with the first Uranus Square which is represented by the desire to break free from predisposed expectations from parents, guardians, and even society. Keep reading to find out more about the connection between the first Uranus Square and the age of 21.
The Astrology of Turning 21
In some cultures, such as in the United States, the age of 21 represents freedom. While the age of 18 may afford people some graces of adulthood, the age of 21 is considered the age where any remaining adult privileges are finally received. This is especially the case in the United States where the age of 21 marks the ability to finally enjoy alcoholic beverages legally. This is also the period where young adults venture out into the world to find out what they would like to do with themselves. Some choose to go to university. Others may decide to start a trade. Some may choose to travel and simply explore the world while learning more about the self.
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At the age of 21, we all experience the first Uranus square. This is the time when the transiting Uranus squares our natal Uranus which marks a period of great breakthroughs, liberations, and a desire to be free. This is the period where many individuals will feel a push to move beyond the influence of the family and will even contest the expectations of society in an attempt to align with the authentic self. However, due to the influence of the tense square energies of the first Uranus square, these freedoms are not often achieved without some discomfort.
Uranus, 21, & Freedom
The planet Uranus is the bringer of freedom, revolution, flashes of insight, and liberation by owning one’s uniqueness. Uranus is the only planet in the solar system that moves horizontally along its orbit around the sun. This movement is representative of the unique, different energy that Uranus represents. Uranus cycles are represented by a push to honor that which is different about ourselves…even if it sets us apart from the rest.
At the Uranus square occurring at 21, there is a desire to be free and live life on our own terms. This period is often marked as a time where there could be rebellion against parental and societal expectations. However, the issue with the Uranus square at the age of 21 is that oftentimes individuals are not always capable of handling the responsibility and accountability that comes with freedom. It is important to remember that Aquarius is the sign associated with Uranus, and Aquarius’ co-ruler is Saturn, the planet of time, responsibility, and accountability. It is at the first Uranus square that individuals learn that there are responsibilities that come with being free. Some are up for the challenge of dealing with the responsibilities associated with freedom while others may discover that they are not quite as prepared to deal with being free as they thought they would be.
The Uranus Square Experience
The Uranus square experience at the age of 21 can bring out various circumstances that often guide us into the realm of freedom. Due to the unexpected nature of Uranus…especially when it is under tense aspect, there is the possibility that there could be some uncomfortable realizations and experiences associated with being a “free bird.” Here are some possible scenarios:
1. Being Cut Off
At the age of 21, many people want to be independent and seek out freedom. However, many of these same individuals are still attached to the foundations that provide them security. At the Uranus square, some individuals may find that their support systems distance themselves or in some cases, cut them off because the individuals are not going along with their program in order to continue to receive support. Thus, while the 21-year-old may be “free,” this freedom is contested by the fact that the 21-year-old’s freedom is still being supported by the very people they are trying to rebel against.
2. Feeling Tension to One’s True Self
The overwhelming desire to be authentic to the self, even if it means being ostracized, can occur at the first Uranus square. The early twenties find many people separating from former friend groups and associations because they are no longer an accurate representation of who they are as a person. There could be a feeling that no matter how hard one tries, one cannot fit in. Well, Uranus doesn’t want anyone to “fit in.” Uranus desires true expression which will ultimately result in the alignment with like-minded people.
3. Experiencing Consequences Related to Freedom
To be free is lovely. To be free is cool, but being free also means taking responsibility for the lived experience. If individuals take the newfound freedom at the age of 21 too far, they may find that they are up against people and society charging them to take responsibility for what the individuals have chosen to do with their freedom. For example, if someone turns 21, they have the adult privilege to drink alcohol legally in the United States. However, there is no privilege that allows anyone of any age to drink and drive. If a 21-year old gets into an accident due to drinking and driving, there are consequences for doing so. And while the individual experiencing the Uranus square will think that consequences are quite “shocking” (Uranus), they are actually not. Freedoms come with responsibility. This is the energy of Uranus and Saturn as the ruler and co-ruler of Aquarius.
In all, the experience of the Uranus square is one that calls us to desire freedom often based on the social concept of achieved adulthood. With the Uranus square, it is important to remember that there is a price for freedoms of all kinds. This is the period that teaches us that even if freedoms are given with age, individuals have to be ready to be responsible and accountable for and to the self if they are to experience the liberation and freedom offered by Uranus.
