What is the first thing you think of when you read the word "Astrology"?
I automatically think of the horoscope written on the back pages of a magazine, a column proclaiming that all people with a birth date between 21st March and 19th April (roughly a twelfth of the population) will meet the love of their life today. Ermmmmm......so are they just meeting each other? what about the rest of the 11/12ths of the populace?
Astrology often finds itself caught in the crossfire between believers who swear by its insights and sceptics who dismiss it as pseudoscience. While it’s easy to view astrology through a mystical lens, there are grounded, measurable correlations between celestial phenomena and real-world events.
It's Written in My Stars
I’ve always been drawn to astrology, but it wasn’t until the age of 17 that I began taking it seriously. I stumbled across an online monthly forecast that claimed I’d pass an exam—and, to my amazement, I did just a week later. Intrigued, I delved deeper into the mysteries of the cosmos. When I had my birth chart read for the first time, it was as though the astrologer could see right into my soul. My quirks, strengths, and challenges were laid bare in what they called my “cosmic blueprint”—a fascinating interplay of mathematical celestial probabilities.
Years later, while traveling through India, I visited a Vedic astrologer. His insights were, let’s say, bold. He told me that my father was morally corrupt—he used to be a professional gambler—and suggested I had inherited this particular trait (no comment, this is the internet, after all). He also predicted I’d have multiple marriages—a claim I can’t confirm yet, though life isn’t over. It was an interesting experience that deepened my curiosity about how astrology varies across cultures.
During my “real-world” career as an actuary for an insurance company, my logical, data-driven brain couldn’t help but test astrology in a tangible way. I had a burning question: Does the Moon influence insurance claims? Using company data, I analysed the numbers and discovered a clear pattern—there are statistically more car accidents on a full moon. It was a moment of revelation for me, bridging the mystical with the measurable.
Most recently, I came across a book called Astrological Keywords by Manly P. Hall, one of my favourite esoteric thinkers. In it, he suggested that my chart indicated an energetic inclination toward being a statistician, marketeer, thief, or counterfeiter. While I’d like to think my "career path" hasn’t veered into morally questionable territory, the suggestion of a life on the fringes of society certainly resonated. It was another nudge from the universe, pointing me toward the unique space astrology occupies between the tangible and the mysterious.
What Is Astrology, Really?
At its core, astrology is the study of how celestial movements—such as the position of the Sun, Moon, and planets—correlate with earthly events and individual experiences. Unlike astronomy, which focuses on the physical properties of celestial bodies, astrology examines symbolic patterns and their impact on human life.
Astrology’s foundation lies in thousands of years of observation. Ancient civilizations noticed that celestial cycles coincided with earthly rhythms, such as the Moon’s link to tides or the Sun’s role in agricultural seasons.
Fly Me to The Moon
The moon is pretty "close" to the Earth. We all know, science knows, that the moon effects the tides. Can it also affect humans who are 60% water?
For centuries, physicians and philosophers blamed behavioural changes on the pull of the moon. The word “lunatic,” after all, stemmed from the idea that changes in mental state were related to lunar cycles. The “lunar effect” is based on the belief that health and behaviour are altered during specific stages of the lunar cycle, with some claiming that it can affect everything from reproductive health to sleep quality and beyond.
Sleep Disruption During Full Moons
A study published in Current Biology (2013) found that participants experienced reduced sleep quality and lower melatonin levels during full moons—even in controlled environments where participants couldn’t see the Moon.
Increased Car Accidents
A 2018 study showed that the full moon contributes to the incidence of emergency transport due to road traffic crashes.
Increased Crime Rates
Another study, showed a spike in crimes during full moons.
Mental Health Episodes
One study says that nearly 81% of mental health professionals believe the full moon can make people ill.
Moon Phases & Birth Rates
Midwives and obstetricians have long reported a belief that more babies are born during full moons. A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology (1987) found slight increases in birth rates during full moons, though the effect size was small.(Source: AJOG Study)
Like any spiritually inclined woman, I eventually began tracking the Moon’s cycles. I noted every new moon and full moon, observing which area of my chart the Moon was transiting and journaling the significant events of the previous two weeks. Over time, patterns began to emerge—ones I couldn’t ignore. Every year around the new moon in Gemini (late May), I’d start a new area of study. By the Virgo new moon (September), I’d feel an overwhelming urge to socialize and connect, almost like clockwork. This consistency over five years solidified my belief in astrology as a tool for observing and aligning with life’s rhythms.
Let me Play Among the Stars
It’s not just the Moon. The Sun’s physical influence on life is undeniable, with measurable effects on health, mood, and behaviour:
Seasonal Birth Trends:
Babies born in winter statistically experience different environmental and social factors than those born in summer. Studies have shown that birth season can influence personality traits, susceptibility to certain illnesses, and even life expectancy.
Example: A study published in Nature Neuroscience found that people born in winter are more likely to develop mood disorders such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Solar Cycles and Behaviour:
Solar activity, such as sunspots and solar flares, can influence Earth’s geomagnetic field. Some studies suggest a correlation between increased solar activity and heightened human emotions, aggression, or productivity.
Statistically, crime rates, accidents, and even stock market activity have been linked to solar cycles in certain research.
Even on a daily basis, the Sun’s position affects our circadian rhythms, linking astrological interpretations of vitality with the statistical impacts of daylight exposure on mood and health. So why shouldn’t the combined electromagnetic frequencies of the celestial bodies in the sky affect us?
Let me see What Spring is like on a, Jupiter and Mars
Mars, the planet of action and energy, is often prominent in the charts of elite athletes.
The Mars Effect is one of the most well-known studies linking astrology with statistical analysis, exploring whether celestial phenomena have tangible effects on human behaviour and achievement. It refers to a purported statistical correlation between athletic eminence and the position of the planet Mars relative to the horizon at the time and place of birth. This concept was introduced by French psychologist and "neo-astrologer" Michel Gauquelin in his 1955 book, L'influence des astres ("The Influence of the Stars").
Gauquelin analysed thousands of birth charts of successful athletes and observed a pattern: Mars often appeared near the horizon (rising) or the zenith (culminating) at the time of their birth. These two positions, called key sectors, are significant in astrology, traditionally associated with strength, ambition, and action—qualities often attributed to Mars.
Gauquelin’s findings suggested that Mars was statistically more likely to be in these positions for eminent athletes than could be explained by chance.
Investing In The Stars
There have been several instances where astrological analysis has successfully predicted significant market events. For instance, astrologers pointed to the Saturn-Pluto conjunction in 2001 as an indicator of the economic downturn that followed the 9/11 attacks. Similarly, the Uranus-Pluto square in the early 2010s was associated with heightened market volatility and the European debt crisis.
Astrology Across Cultures and History
Astrology isn’t just a new-age Western phenomenon—from ancient Egypt to Carl Jung's archetypes, the story of astrology is woven into the fabric of history, influencing culture, philosophy, and even politics.
The Babylonians: In ancient Mesopotamia, astrology was reserved for the elite. Kings employed astrologers to interpret celestial signs, believing these messages guided their reigns. The famous Enuma Anu Enlil, a Babylonian astrological text, advised kings on warfare, famine, and prosperity based on planetary alignments. They created the zodiac, dividing the sky into 12 equal parts based on the Sun’s annual journey.
The Egyptians refined Babylonian astrology, associating planets and stars with their deities. For example, the star Sirius (linked to the goddess Isis) was critical in predicting the annual flooding of the Nile, a life-giving event for agriculture. Horoscopes were inscribed on tombs to guide the soul in the afterlife, reflecting the Egyptians’ belief in cosmic order.
The Greeks embraced astrology and infused it with their rich mythology. Figures like Plato and Pythagoras saw the cosmos as a harmonious system, where celestial bodies influenced life on Earth. The Greeks named planets after gods—Venus (love and beauty), Mars (war), and Jupiter (king of the gods)—establishing a symbolic link that endures today.
Ptolemy’s Tetrabiblos (2nd century CE) became the foundational text of Western astrology. He codified the relationship between planets and human affairs, laying the groundwork for horoscopic astrology.
The Renaissance saw astrology flourish alongside the rise of science. Astrologers were often also astronomers, bridging the mystical and the empirical. Johannes Kepler: a key figure in modern astronomy, was also an astrologer. He viewed the cosmos as divinely ordered and used astrology to understand planetary motion. His work on planetary orbits provided mathematical precision to astrology, uniting science and esotericism. He considered astrology a symbolic tool for understanding the divine harmony of the universe, not as deterministic fortune-telling.
European Monarchs: During the Renaissance, European royals often relied on astrologers. Queen Elizabeth I famously consulted John Dee, an astrologer and alchemist, for advice on state matters.
During the Islamic Golden Age, astrology flourished alongside astronomy. Scholars like Al-Biruni and Al-Kindi merged Greek, Persian, and Indian astrological traditions with scientific methods. Astrology guided decisions in governance, medicine, and urban planning. Learn more: Science Museum on Al-Biruni.
The Norse pantheon also ties into astrology through the names of the days of the week, which correspond to planetary influences:
Tuesday (Tiw’s Day): Tiw, the Norse god of war, aligns with Mars.
Wednesday (Woden’s Day): Woden (Odin) links to Mercury’s intellect and communication.
Thursday (Thor’s Day): Thor’s association with Jupiter reflects his role as a protector and bringer of abundance.
Friday (Frigg’s Day): Frigg, goddess of love, corresponds to Venus.
Like other cultures, The Norse myths emphasise the connection between celestial forces and human life.
The Mayans developed one of the most complex astrological systems, tied closely to their calendar. They believed celestial events directly influenced agricultural cycles, spiritual rituals, and even societal stability. Their "Daykeeper" priests interpreted these cycles to guide communities.
Chinese astrology, based on a 12-animal zodiac system, has been an integral part of Chinese culture, even playing a signficant role in imperial courts, where celestial omens were interpreted as signs of the emperor's divine right to rule.
In India, Vedic astrology (Jyotish) remains a cornerstone of royal and political decisions. Historically, Indian emperors sought astrologers to determine auspicious times for coronations, battles, and alliances. Today, many leaders continue to consult astrologers before major events.
Esoteric astrology, popularised by figures like Alice Bailey, focuses on the soul’s evolution rather than material outcomes. This tradition emphasises:
Planetary Rays: Each planet embodies specific energies (e.g., Venus as love and harmony, Saturn as karma and discipline).
Higher Purpose: Astrology is used to align individuals with their spiritual path and the collective evolution of humanity.
Carl Jung, a 20th-century psychologist, viewed astrology as a tool for understanding the human psyche. He believed the zodiac symbols mirrored archetypes within the collective unconscious.
Astrology as Symbolism: Jung’s work emphasized that astrology reflects inner psychological states rather than external causation. For example, Saturn’s archetype (structure, discipline) corresponds to life’s challenges and lessons.
Synchronicity: Jung coined the term "synchronicity" to describe meaningful coincidences, often tied to astrological transits. He saw astrology as a way to explore these interconnected patterns.
Astrology has definitely found its stride in the 21st century, evolving beautifully by blending ancient wisdom with modern technology. Social media platforms have made astrology accessible and entertaining, with memes, quick horoscopes, and bite-sized insights drawing in new audiences. Apps like The Pattern and Co-Star bring astrology into our daily lives, offering personalized updates and helping people reflect on their cosmic cycles.
Even more fascinating is the deeper side—tools like natal chart analysis and astrocartography are gaining traction among those seeking alignment and purpose. It’s not just about personality traits anymore; it’s about understanding the "cosmic blueprint" that reflects your path, relationships, and even the best places to live or travel. Apps and platforms now take this deeper knowledge and make it interactive, sparking curiosity and self-reflection.
The Dance of the Cosmos
Astrology, for me, is not just about predictions or personality archetypes—it’s a lens through which I can observe patterns, cycles, and connections. Whether it’s the Moon influencing insurance claims, the bold statements of a Vedic astrologer, or the yearly themes that emerge with the lunar cycles, astrology continues to be a profound tool for self-reflection and discovery. It bridges the mystical with the practical, offering a symbolic map that guides me through life’s twists and turns.
In my logical brain, astrology operates as a symbolic system that connects celestial movements to earthly events and human experiences. At its core, it aligns with mathematical principles like probability and patterns. By observing the recurring positions of planets and their correlations with specific themes, astrology reflects the concept of probability space—a mathematical framework where multiple outcomes exist, and certain conditions make some outcomes more likely.
Much like quantum physics suggests that particles exist in a state of potential until observed, astrology proposes that celestial positions represent potential energies or influences, rather than fixed destinies. This interplay between likelihood and variability mirrors the probabilistic nature of life itself. Astrology doesn’t claim to be a causal force but identifies patterns in the "cosmic web" that align with human experiences, offering a symbolic language to explore life’s potential outcomes.
Even sceptics, knowingly or unknowingly, engage with astrology—whether it’s checking daily horoscopes, debating zodiac traits at parties, or sharing astrology memes. While mainstream astrology often oversimplifies the practice, deeper techniques like natal chart analysis go far beyond surface-level predictions. These tools offer personalised insights into our individual paths, providing clarity, purpose, and a profound sense of connection.
What about you? Have you noticed patterns or themes in your life that align with the Moon or the stars? Maybe your story is written in the cosmos too.