Virgo is the sixth Sign of the Zodiac, to be exact, and that's the way Virgos like it: exact. Those born under this Sign are often the subject of jokes, for being so picky and critical (and they can be), but their 'attention to detail' serves a purpose: to help others. Virgos, more than any other Sign, were born to serve, and this gives them great joy. What's more, they are tailor-made for the job - they are industrious, methodical and efficient. Virgos have a considerable sense of duty, and they employ themselves for the greater good.

Virgo is represented in modern Astrology by the Virgin, although this association should not be taken literally. It is true Virgos tend to take on some of the qualities of a Virgin, such as modesty and humanity. Some might even consider them repressed, although Virgins would argue that this is a noble quality. But, most of all, Virgos enjoy indulging their practical and logical side and poring over their projects to the Nth degree. To say these people are good at fact-finding is an understatement, since Virgos revel in their exacting (some would argue pedantic) behaviour, and are geniuses with minutiae. Virgins are an asset in the workplace as they can be counted on to get things right the first time, every time - and no detail will be overlooked. They are also balanced and fair in their assessments, in keeping with the Mutable Quality assigned to this Sign.

Virgo is ruled by the Planet Mercury, and as portrayed in ancient Roman mythology, Mercury wasn't one to sit still for long. This swift-footed god was a bundle of energy, both physically and mentally, and that pretty much sums up Virgo. A Virgo's brain is in overdrive most of the time, which is why they get so much done. Those born under this Sign are also able communicators and use their mental acuity to maximum advantage. However, all of this brainpower can make Virgins prone to scepticism, and can even lead to the kind of overthink that surely leads to overkill. Thankfully, though, Virgos are also a studious lot, and can temper their worst impulses with a bit of careful analysis. Virgos enjoy studying a situation in great detail, whether it's a work project or a friendship. Virgins are truly interested in understanding things. The bane of many Virgos is their very own perfectionism, which can get in the way of their usual clear thinking. 'I'm not a perfectionist; I'm discriminating!' a Virgo would say, happy in the knowledge that their taste is unparalleled. For this reason, Virgos are also neat and clean, save for the occasional sloppy Virgo (they do exist). Virgins are also reliable and practical and oh-so-useful to have around.

The Element associated with Virgo is Earth, and, in keeping with that, most Virgos are grounded, salt-of-the-earth types. The flash and dash can go to others, since Virgos would much rather be humble and easygoing. That said, Virgins do enjoy material possessions and are (dare we say?) picky about what they bring into their lives. Some might even go as far as calling them self-centred, but it's really more of a desire to surround themselves with what's right - for them, that is. This discernment also serves Virgins well in business, where their decisions are usually well considered.

Those born under this Sign are eminently sensible and use their critical eye well. While Virgins can worry too much, they do their best to temper these impulses. However, if this nervousness goes unchecked, it can lead to hypochondria, that ugly skeleton in the Virgo's closet. For that reason, Virgos are extremely health conscious, to the point of being storehouses of information on diet and hygiene. Many Virgos even choose a health or medical career so they won't miss a beat.

Working out is elemental for Virgins, even though the benefits of exercise are far more important to Virgos than the process itself. That's why Virgos are likely to time themselves on their runs and get in those 300 sit-ups every day. When it comes to the game of love, Virgos are able to loosen up somewhat and are devoted to their lovers, even if they can be a bit jealous. Since Virgo rules the intestines, tension could lead to digestive upsets. Soothing relief often comes by way of earth tones, which is why Virgos like to be surrounded by shades of tan and a warm yellow.

The great strengths of the Virgo-born are their practicality, sharp mind and attention to detail. Add these to their willingness to serve, and Virgos become essential helpmates.