The Four Cardinal Directions Explained
When it comes to navigation, geography or any type of orientation, it’s important to understand and be able to identify the four cardinal directions. The four cardinal directions are north, south, east, and west. They are the basic orientation points that can help you find your way in any situation.
North: The Direction of the Arctic
The North is the direction that points to the Earth’s geographic North Pole. This is the direction where you will find extreme cold weather, auroras, and the Arctic. Navigational tools like compasses and maps are traditionally oriented with north at the top. In astrology, North is associated with the element of earth and winter season.
South: The Direction of the Antarctic
South is the opposite direction of North and points towards the Earth’s geographic South Pole. In this direction is where you will find the Antarctica, the coldest continent in the world. While not as commonly associated with navigational tools as North, South is still an important direction to know, especially for travelers heading to the southern hemisphere.
East: The Direction of the Sunrise
East is the direction that points towards where the sun rises, making it the direction of the morning. Traditionally, East is seen as a symbol of new beginnings in various cultures across the world. In feng shui, East is associated with the element of wood and the direction for growth and vitality.
West: The Direction of the Sunset
West is the opposite of East and points towards where the sun sets, making it the direction of the evening. In many cultures, West is associated with endings, perhaps because the day comes to a close when the sun sets in the West. In feng shui, West is associated with the element of metal and the direction for completion and clarity.
