No doubt at some time you've read the star sign columns in magazines and newspapers. They are intriguing, thought provoking and sometimes very amusing. However, they do not represent the real art of astrology and what it has to offer each one of us. Star sign columns are general readings for each Sun sign (the zodiac sign the Sun was in on your birthday). They do not take into account the myriad of other factors that make up the individual's horoscope. The horoscope is a symbolic map of the planets and other celestial objects at the time of your birth. When we look at a horoscope it becomes obvious that there are more planets and influences involved than the Sun alone.
Man has always been fascinated with the stars and planets sensing that a connection with the "creator" lies in our exploration and understanding of the universe. Before the written word, thousands of years before recorded history, stories of civilisations based on the cycles of the Sun, Moon and stars can be recounted by every race. Astrology started before Babylon and spread throughout the world. It is the oldest science known to man and at one time was more highly regarded than medicine. However, with the rise of Christianity came the suppression of astrology.

In the 4th century, St.Augustine (leader of the early Christian Church) declared astrology to be a false and evil art that led men astray. Astrology entered a period of hibernation that continued well into the Middle Ages. A resurgence around the time of the Renaissance waned in the 18th century when astrologers were officially outlawed. The Church wanted complete control of its followers to foster its own rise to power. The truth is that astrology is a tool that gives men and women the power to find their own salvation, both physical and spiritual. Today it is enjoying a return to favour and popularity. Many people turn to the astrology page of a publication, often before reading anything else. To gain deeper insight, increasing numbers of people are directly consulting an astrologer to uncover what is influencing events and problems in their life.

Astrology is an intuitive science, as opposed to other sciences based on laboratory testing and outcomes. Its validity rests on its proven practical application to real life. It focuses on the psychology of humanity and as such is a tool for understanding the processes that we as individuals and a community experience. It is the astrologer's job to unfold the individual's story and shift their condition from confusion to understanding.

Astrology is also the science of celestial cycles. All things follow cycles and therefore present a certain familiarity over time. The planets also have their cycles, some more consciously recognisable than others, especially those closer to us. The Moon is our most obvious example of how celestial objects affect our lives. It takes 29 days from new moon to new moon and 28 days to traverse the zodiac. Its movement through our skies pulls the oceans to create the tides. At the full moon, a greater occurrence of emotional outbursts, domestic violence and 'crazy' behaviour is documented. Lunatics and werewolves are also associated with the full moon. A 'regular' menstrual cycle (mens – moon) occurs every 28/29 days. Still today as in the past wise gardeners refer to the cycles of the Moon before planting or harvesting crops.

It is these cycles, conscious or otherwise, that influence the ebb and flow of life. Astrology is the science of interpreting the cycles of the planets as it affects our everyday lives. Real growth can only happen when we become conscious of the lessons contained within the events of our lives, learn from them and move on. A lesson unlearned is repeated until the message gets through and is accepted. Astrology gives us a lens through which we can consciously observe our life's processes. Intuition can grow through this conscious observation affording us a richer life than one driven by instinct alone.

Next time you read your stars looking for answers consider the advantages of consulting a professional astrologer. A more personal and insightful reading may bring clearer solutions and a greater understanding of yourself.