Astrology
Astrology was first practiced in the 2nd millennium BCE!
Ethical astrologers will not make fatalistic predictions or try to scare you into more sessions.
What is Astrology?
Astrology is an ancient practice that seeks to understand human affairs and natural phenomena by interpreting the movements and relative positions of celestial bodies. At its core, astrology is based on the premise that there is a connection between the positioning of the sun, moon, and planets at the time of someone's birth, and their personality, relationships, and life events.
In astrology, the sky is divided into twelve sections, each represented by a zodiac sign. These signs—Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces—are said to influence distinct aspects of personality and life based on the time of year someone is born. Astrologers create charts, known as horoscopes, which map the positions of these celestial bodies at specific times, such as a person's birth. They then interpret these charts to provide insights into a person's character, potential life paths, and the timing of key events.
The practice of astrology also includes understanding the movements and relationships between planets, known as aspects, which are thought to exert subtle influences. For example, when two planets are in a certain position relative to each other, they might be said to be in "conjunction" or "opposition", each with their own specific astrological meaning.
Astrology holds a significant place in various cultures and continues to be a source of fascination and guidance for many people around the world. Whether one sees it as a tool for self-reflection, a guide for living, a way to connect with the cosmos, or simply as entertainment, astrology offers a unique lens through which to view our lives and the world around us.
History of Astrology
Astrology has its earliest known roots in ancient Mesopotamia, particularly in Babylon, around the 2nd millennium BCE. The Babylonians were the first to develop a system linking celestial events with earthly occurrences, focusing particularly on how these affected the state and the ruler. This system evolved over time, with the Greeks and Romans further refining it. The Greeks integrated astrology with their own philosophical and astronomical ideas, developing the Zodiac system, which divided the sky into twelve parts associated with constellations and times of the year. The Romans then spread astrology throughout their empire, including the Arabian Peninsula, where it was preserved and enhanced during the Islamic Golden Age.
During the Islamic Golden Age, from the 8th to the 14th centuries, scholars in the Muslim world made significant advancements in astrology. They translated and expanded upon Greek and Roman astrological texts, improving astrological calculations. This knowledge eventually made its way back to Europe during the Renaissance, a period marked by a resurgence of interest in classical knowledge and the separation of astrology from astronomy. Astrology during this era became more focused on the individual, laying the groundwork for the psychological and predictive astrology that is common today.
Currently astrology has become increasingly focused on psychological and personal aspects, diverging significantly from the empirical approach of astronomy. Gaining widespread popularity in the 20th century, astrology today is often associated with horoscopes and sun-sign based predictions. Astrology continues its long tradition as a cultural and historical practice that seeks to find meaning in the stars and planets.
Areas Astrology May Support
Astrology is sought after for various purposes.
Personal insight and self-understanding. By interpreting their natal chart, which plots the positions of celestial bodies at birth, they aim to glean insights into their personality traits, strengths, weaknesses, and possible life paths.
Relationship guidance. Compatibility readings may compare natal charts to help explore potential strengths and challenges in various relationships, be they romantic, familial, or professional.
Career and vocational guidance. Astrologers may suggest professions or life directions based on an individual's astrological characteristics.
Decision-making. It's also a tool for decision-making, assisting people in making choices and selecting auspicious dates for significant events. Astrology offers a perspective on the timing of life's cycles and transitions through techniques like transit analysis.
Health and wellness. Some astrologers extend its application to wellness and health, though this is less common and not scientifically validated. Learn more about Medical Astrology.
Creative inspiration. Beyond its direct applications, astrology has also been a source of inspiration in art, literature, and culture, influencing a wide range of creative expressions.
What to Expect During an Astrology Reading
While different astrologers may vary in how they give readings, there are some common practices that you can expect. When you go for an astrological reading, the astrologer will usually start by creating your natal chart using your birth date, time, and place. This chart is a celestial snapshot of the planets' positions at your birth and serves as the basis for the reading.
The astrologer will interpret the various elements in your chart, such as your sun, moon, and rising signs, the positions of planets in different zodiac signs and houses, and their angles or aspects to each other. This analysis is intended to shed light on your personality traits, strengths, weaknesses, and potential life paths.
During the reading, the astrologer will discuss key themes in your life, including personal and professional challenges and opportunities. They may also examine current and upcoming astrological transits and progressions to provide insights into current life situations and future trends.
An important aspect of the reading is its interactive nature, allowing you to ask questions and focus on specific areas of interest. Ethical astrologers emphasize guidance and self-reflection, steering clear of fatalistic predictions, and maintaining confidentiality. It's crucial to remember that astrology is not scientifically validated and should be seen as a tool for personal insight, not as a definitive directive for making important life decisions.
Tips for Finding an Astrologer
Astrology offers a unique path to self-discovery and a different perspective on understanding oneself and one’s place in the world. Some tips for finding and working with an astrologer:
Find an astrologer whose expertise and style resonate with you, taking into account the different traditions like Western, Vedic, or Chinese astrology.
Ensure you have precise birth time, date, and location for an accurate reading.
Before the session, clearly define what you expect to gain, be it insights into your personality, life guidance, or answers to specific queries.
Sessions can typically be conducted in person, over the phone, or via video conferencing, depending on the astrologer's offerings and your preference.
During the reading, actively engage and be open to the experience, as this will make the insights more tailored and meaningful.
Afterward, reflect on the discussion and jot down notes. Recording the session can be beneficial. It's important to keep realistic expectations and use critical thinking, particularly for significant decisions.
If the session proves valuable, you may wish to delve deeper into astrology through additional readings, educational materials, or classes.
One of our Woo School educators, Kira Sutherland, is an experienced Medical Astrologer. Learn more about her and the many online lectures and courses she has available here.
