Western Astrology 101: The Beginner’s Guide

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Wondering what Western astrology is and whether it is accurate? Does the fault really lie in our stars? Beyond fun horoscope readings or insightful zodiac guides, the practice of astrology has been around in various forms for thousands of years. In recent years, it seems to be gaining popularity in our stressful, data-driven era due to its association with self-care and wellness. Keen to learn more about Western Astrology? Read on!

Western Astrology: What is it?

As its name suggests, Western Astrology is a divination method closely related to astronomy that is popular in Western cultures. It refers to the study of the influence of stars and planets on human destinies and earthly affairs based on Tetrabiblos – a core text on the philosophy and practice of astrology – by Claudius Ptolemy, a 2nd-century Greek mathematician, astronomer and geographer. 

Can you imagine? More than 2,400 years ago, people were already using astrology for guidance in their life!

Just like Eastern Astrology (think Bazi, Zi Wei Astrology) or Vedic Astrology, Western Astrology looks into the placement of the planets and the constellations at the time of birth to gain insights into an individual’s destiny, fortune, and character. This implies a direct influence of the universe on our lives, and that our souls are reflections of the cosmic souls.

Four elements in Western Astrology

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The practice of astrology is based on various theories, including the core elements in our world, believed to be fundamental to all matters, unchanging in nature. Unlike Eastern Astrology or Vedic Astrology, there are only four elements identified in the Western system, namely Fire, Air, Earth and Water. 

It is believed that everything (including us) in our world has a combination of these four elements. Hence, learning what each element represents can help us to evaluate our individual strengths and weaknesses. As you can imagine, these four elements can represent just about anything; i.e. emotions, changing seasons, innate qualities, etc. For example: 

12 Western Zodiac star signs

Ever read the Strait Times horoscope section? Perhaps you have an astrology app installed on your mobile phone. Even if you are unfamiliar with Western Astrology, you are likely to have come across the following 12 signs in the zodiac for each month.

These Western zodiac star signs are also known as sun signs, as the system is calculated based on the Earth’s movement around the sun, which is believed to result in the celestial alignment. These signs can reveal more than just your personality or love compatibility. Those are just barely scratching the surface of what Western Astrology can do. 

Western Astrology can express complex ideas about life cycles and relationship patterns, allowing individuals to gain greater self-understanding and make improvements in one’s life. 

Western Astrology chart

Note: Zodiac dates vary slightly each year because of leap years every fourth year – the last one being 2020.

What to expect from an astrology reading?

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Western Astrology can be an effective tool for self-introspection and a medium for you to engage and understand the world we live in. An astrology session – when conducted by an experienced and professional astrologer like Master Ruanna – can help one to identify your natural strengths and weaknesses, recurring patterns and obstacles, etc. 

Understanding all these shall help you to gain greater clarity and clearer directions in life, so you can live a life which is most meaningful to you. There are different types of readings, with the most basic and common being the birth chart analysis. Similar to a Bazi reading, your Western Astrology birth chart takes an in-depth view at your inherent qualities and the major on-goings in your life. 

Wondering which astrology site is more accurate?

It may be better to get an actual reading from a professional astrologer, be it online or in person. You can also do your own reading if you master the art of Western Astrology, which is similar to learning a new language. Interested to find out more? Then get in touch with us today!