3 Myths of Astrology
In all of the workshops and parties that I host, I always start by answering the question “what is astrology?”
It’s tricky to know where to start because as you can imagine, astrology is one of the most expansive, complex, and nuanced modalities we have access to as humans. That’s why I love it and that’s why I think it’s essential to get on the same page about what we’re talking about here.
In order to talk about what astrology is, I often talk about what astrology isn’t. I break through the myths and preconceived notions that are present so people can see the cosmos with fresh eyes. Let’s explore them here.
Myth No. 1: Astrology is a Belief System
99% of the time when we hear astrology being talked about in mainstream media or even between friends, the question is “do you believe in astrology?” So let me clarify—I DON’T BELIEVE IN ASTROLOGY. I understand astrology. Much like time (the birth chart in fact looks like a clock), astrology outlines indications of energies. The Sun and Moon positioned at exact places in the sky do not care if you believe that they should exist. They just do.
Belief systems offer a set of values, principles, and ideologies about human life and how we should live. Belief systems are often rooted in virtues and possibly even Gods and Deities. Astrology offers none of these things. The Moon doesn’t tell you how to process your emotions. Venus isn’t waiting for you to finally open up your heart. Humans create that meaning. We can and should bring our own belief systems and modalities to the practice of astrology so we can consciously work with the energies to live healthier and more fulfilled lives. We are not subjects to the planets, we are in relationship with them.
One more example…Ronald Reagan infamously used astrology to time moments in his political career, such as being sworn in during the middle of the night because of optimal astrological configurations. Astrology is just a tool and it works no matter who is using it, and what they believe.
Myth No. 2: Astrology is “Woo”
Similarly to the first myth, we must continue to demystify astrology by naming that astrology is not very spiritual in nature. Yes, it’s certainly “out there” and mystical in many ways, but it’s not inherently connecting you with your spirituality. Astrology points to the strengths that are present within you, which includes the qualities that you likely bring to your spiritual practice. But it’s not spirituality itself.
Astrology is data, and therefore more cerebral than anything. I often say that astrology is actually the most researched system of all time. Since the moment humans could look to the stars with consciousness, they have been tracking patterns and cycles, and identifying how certain configurations effect behavior and events. It wasn’t until the The Age of Enlightenment (which wasn’t very enlightened) that people separated astrology and astronomy, and stripped meaning from science.
You might be thinking, wow Jaz has a pretty cold approach to astrology. So let me just clarify, I am a deeply spiritual and some might say “woo” person. I love rituals, and prayer, and Spirits, and elemental magic, but astrology doesn’t teach me that. Astrology says “based on the research, this sign is in this element, and this planet in this place means that you’d probably like this…” but then it’s up to us to use our hearts and souls to tap in. Astrology is the map, but we are the seekers.
Myth No. 3: Astrology = Horoscopes = B.S.
Shout it from the rooftops! You are more than your Sun Sign! If you’re reading this, you probably already know that astrology is much more complex than your “Sign” and what a horoscope says. But I must include this one because many folks still dismiss astrology because they refuse to believe that they’re the same as a 12th of the population. I wish I could shake these people and say “we’re saying the same thing! I also think that’s a ridiculous idea! I’m not saying you’re the same as anyone else. I’m saying you are your own universe.”
But alas, these myths and biases run deep in the minds of intellectuals, especially cishet straight men. I’m sorry! I wish it wasn’t true! Last year a famous psychologist (I don’t want his name on my website lol) posted a video urging people to finally admit that astrology is B.S. He said something like “come on guys, really?? You really think the universe is affecting you?” To which I’m like yeah…? He pointed to a research study that “proved” that there was no correlation in behavior between people with the same Sun Sign, as if that means the whole ancient system of astrology should be tossed out.
Personally, it seems like those “studies” exist as a pass for folks to dismiss astrology instead of setting aside biases and being vulnerable enough to admit they don’t understand it. I gave up the urge a long time ago to try and convince people that astrology is actually intellectual, complex, and worthwhile, but I can feel my heart rate speeding up as I write this so let’s move on!
What is Astrology?
So let’s get to the question you’re asking yourself, if astrology isn’t a belief system, spiritual practice, or simplified nonsense, then what is it??
Put simply, astrology is an ancient system of tracking planets and their correlations. It contains data about the tendencies and outcomes within societal time periods, singular events, and the minds of individuals. It is both a language and a tool.
If you’ve ever heard an astrologer talk about astrology, you know that it is rich with vocabulary, significations, and techniques. Like any language, the first time you hear it (and many times after), you’re probably lost. But each time, you might pick up more and more words, and the meanings come together in new ways. After my events and readings, I often receive feedback that says “wow it finally clicked! I can see how it all fits together.”
More than complex terminology and jargon, astrology provides a language of self-understanding. Within the birth chart, you have access to language that describes your emotional needs, communication style, love languages, aligned action, life purpose, and more (NBD!).
There is power in naming things. In readings, I might describe a dynamic within you that you’ve been aware of at some level. Naming your internal dynamics validates them and gives them room to breathe. The language of astrology says that it’s actually deeply human to have conflicting motivations and tendencies, and there are ways to embrace them with more self-compassion.
In these ways, astrology is also a tool because it helps you understand your strengths with more clarity and take action with more empowerment. Astrology is a tool of self-discovery, healing, and breakthrough. It is also a tool of interpersonal connection. Through understanding your own astrology and the astrology of your people, you can identify each person’s tendencies and needs, and connect with more empathy and intention.
Bringing it All Together
As you can see, astrology is complex, intricate, and misunderstood (much like humans!). That’s why I’m drawn to it, and that’s why we see more and more people embracing astrology as an important resource in their lives.
And, at the same time, Gen Z (Pluto in Sag) has taught me, it’s not that deep. Astrology is also allowed to be fun, lighthearted, and even silly. I think Season 3 of The White Lotus captured this balance perfectly.
When we approach astrology, I believe that we should have reverence, playfulness, and a dash of wonder — where we can set aside outdated beliefs and embrace astrology for what it is, a friend.
xx, Jaz