What is astrology? Everything you need to know about this ancestral practice

In a fascinating interview, Rafa Puertas, the visionary founder of Intervida and KonConsciencia, immerses us in the intriguing world of astrology with an expert in the field, José Millán. Throughout this conversation, we will explore in depth what astrology is and, perhaps even more importantly, what it is not. This ancient discipline is often misunderstood and underestimated in its ability to provide meaningful guidance in our lives. Join us on this journey to discover how astrology can be a valuable tool to know ourselves and navigate the turbulent waters of existence.

Astrology is much more than just reading horoscopes in magazines or websites. As José Millán points out, astrology is an ancient discipline based on the observation of planetary movements and their influence on people’s lives. It is a complex system involving the study of the position of the planets at the time of a person’s birth, known as his or her natal chart.

Astrology considers the planets and their positions in the zodiac to have an impact on an individual’s personality, relationships, career and life in general. It is not limited to predicting the future, but focuses on providing a deeper understanding of oneself and the energies around us.

The Misinterpretation of Astrology

Astrology is often misunderstood as a pseudoscience or even as mere entertainment. However, José Millán urges us not to judge it so superficially. Astrology is a symbolic system that requires deep knowledge and study to be understood and applied correctly.

It is not about accurately predicting specific events, but about providing a broader view and understanding of the cosmic patterns that influence our lives. The misinterpretation stems largely from the sensationalistic marketing of astrology and a lack of understanding of its complexity.

Astrology as a Guide for Life

José Millán reminds us that astrology can be a powerful tool for self-knowledge and personal growth. By understanding our natal chart and the planetary influences at play, we can make more informed decisions and align ourselves with our own purposes and desires.

In addition, astrology can help us understand the dynamics in our relationships and provide guidance in times of uncertainty. It is a guide that allows us to navigate the challenges and opportunities that life presents us.

Astrology is an ancient practice that studies the movements of the stars and their influence on people. Although it has no scientific backing, it has left a significant cultural impact on different societies. It differs from astronomy, which is a science that studies celestial bodies. The zodiac signs, associated with specific characteristics and elements, play an important role in astrology. In addition, it is used for personalized interpretations through the birth chart and horoscopes are consulted in daily life. Astrology has been the subject of criticism and controversy, being considered pseudoscientific.

What is astrology?

Astrology is an ancient discipline that has sparked interest and debate throughout history. It is dedicated to the study of the movements of the stars and their supposed impact on people. Although it has no scientific backing, it has had a significant cultural impact on various societies.

Origin and evolution of astrology

Astrology dates back more than 25,000 years, having been developed by different civilizations throughout time. However, its development in Ancient Greece and its subsequent spread after the Roman conquest to other cultures is noteworthy. Since then, it has evolved and acquired different symbolic and anthropological traditions.

Definition and main concepts of astrology

Although considered a pseudoscience, astrology seeks to know the energies that supposedly impact people. For this purpose, concepts such as the birth chart, which analyzes the position of the planets at the time of birth and places them in different astral houses, are used. In addition, weekly or daily horoscopes are used, which are based on the phases of the Moon to determine supposed astrological climates.

Difference between astrology and astronomy

It is important to differentiate astrology from astronomy, as they are distinct disciplines. While astronomy is considered a science that studies celestial bodies and seeks testable conclusions, astrology relies on cultural and symbolic traditions to make more holistic interpretations of the celestial vault. Astrology delves into more spiritual or religious aspects, without solid scientific foundations.

The zodiac signs

The zodiac signs are a fundamental element in astrology, since they represent different characteristics and personalities according to the time of the year in which we are born. In the following, we will explore the meaning and characteristics of the zodiac signs, as well as the influence they have on our personality and their relationship with the elements.

Meaning and characteristics of zodiac signs

Each of the twelve signs of the zodiac has a particular meaning and characteristics that distinguish them. These signs are based on the position of the Sun at the time of birth and are divided into different elements: fire, earth, air and water. The main characteristics of each sign are briefly detailed below:

• Aries (March 21 – April 19): Energy, initiative and passion.
• Taurus (April 20 – May 20): Stability, sensuality and determination.
• Gemini (May 21 – June 20): Versatility, communication and curiosity.
• Cancer (June 21 – July 22): Sensitivity, protection and intuition.
• Leo (July 23 – August 22): Self-confidence, leadership and generosity.
• Virgo (August 23 – September 22): Organization, perfectionism and analysis.
• Libra (September 23 – October 22): Balance, harmony and fairness.
• Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): Intensity, passion and depth.
• Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): Adventure, freedom and sense of humor.
• Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): Ambition, discipline and responsibility.
• Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): Originality, independence and open-mindedness.
• Pisces (February 19 – March 20): Empathy, intuition and artistic sensitivity.

Influence of the zodiac signs on personality

The zodiac signs can have a significant influence on the personality of each individual. Although it is important to remember that they do not completely determine our character and actions, they do provide distinctive traits and general tendencies. The elements influence the way we express ourselves and relate to our environment, while other aspects of the natal chart can qualify and complement these characteristics.

Relationship between the zodiac signs and the elements

There is a close relationship between the zodiac signs and the elements, which are fire, earth, air and water. Each of these elements possesses distinct qualities that are associated with the zodiac signs that represent them. For example, fire signs (Aries, Leo and Sagittarius) are characterized by their energy and passion, while water signs (Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces) stand out for their emotional sensitivity. The earth signs (Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn) are characterized by their stability and practicality, and the air signs (Gemini, Libra and Aquarius) are known for their analytical mindset and focus on communication.

Astrology and astronomy

Astrology and astronomy are two disciplines that are often confused, but they are very different approaches to the study of the universe. Although they share an intertwined history, they have different approaches and objectives today.

The historical relationship between astrology and astronomy

Astrology and astronomy have been closely linked throughout history. In ancient times, no clear distinction was made between the two practices. The astronomer-astrologers used celestial observations to make predictions and relate them to earthly events.

However, with the advent of the Enlightenment and the scientific method, astronomy began to separate from astrology. As astronomy was consolidating as an empirical science, based on precise observations and calculations, astrology was moving away from a symbolic and subjective interpretation of the cosmos.

Differences between astrology and astronomy today.

At present, the differences between astrology and astronomy are obvious. Astronomy focuses on the objective and quantitative study of celestial bodies, using scientific methods and advanced technology. It focuses on understanding the physics and chemistry of astronomical objects, the laws that govern their motion and evolution.

On the other hand, astrology draws on cultural and symbolic traditions to make more holistic interpretations of the celestial vault. It focuses on the relationship between the stars and human beings, seeking to reveal aspects of personality and destiny through planetary influence at key moments in life.

Debate on the scientific validity of astrology

Astrology has been the subject of intense debate in terms of its scientific validity. The scientific community, for the most part, rejects astrology as a pseudoscience due to the lack of empirical evidence and the impossibility of performing controlled and reproducible experiments in its study.

Despite criticism, astrology has endured over the centuries and continues to be practiced and consulted by many people seeking guidance and self-knowledge. Its influence on culture and society is undeniable, although it is not recognized as a scientific discipline.

What astrology studies

Astrology is a discipline that focuses on the study of the stars and their influence on people’s lives. Through different tools and techniques, astrologers analyze different aspects to better understand the impact of the stars on our lives.

Analysis of the natal chart and its importance in astrology

One of the fundamental pillars of astrology is the analysis of a person’s birth chart. This chart is a personalized map showing the position of the planets at the time of an individual’s birth. Through it, information can be obtained about the most relevant aspects of the personality, tendencies and possible events that may occur throughout life.

The analysis of the birth chart is performed by identifying the zodiacal signs and their location in the different astral houses. Each sign and house has its own characteristics and symbolism, and their interaction provides detailed information about a person’s personality and destiny.

The role of planets in astrology

In astrology, the planets play a fundamental role. Each planet has special attributes and qualities that influence different areas of our lives. For example, the sun represents vitality, energy and personal identity, while the moon is related to emotions and intuition.

The study of the position and aspects of the planets in the natal chart allows astrologers to understand how they influence our personality, our relationships and our life experiences. In addition, planets in transit or in aspect with other planets at a given time may indicate key moments or important challenges that we will face in certain periods of time.

Interpretation of the astral houses in astrological studies

The astral houses are specific divisions in the natal chart that represent different areas of life. Each house has a unique meaning and shows how the planets and signs manifest in specific areas of our existence.

The interpretation of the astral houses allows us to understand the different aspects of our life, such as career, relationships, health, family and many other areas. Each house has specific qualities and themes associated with it that are analyzed in conjunction with the position of the planets to get a more complete picture of our situation and potential challenges or opportunities.

Astrology in everyday life

Astrology plays a relevant role in the daily lives of many people, offering tools to understand themselves and the world around them. In the following, we will explore three fundamental aspects of astrology in daily life: the use of horoscopes, personalized consultations with astrologers, and the empowerment and self-knowledge that can be gained through this ancient practice.

Use of horoscopes in daily astrology

Horoscopes are a popular way to access astrology on a daily basis. These astrological forecasts provide information on how the stars can influence different aspects of life, such as love, health or work. Many people consult their horoscopes daily for guidance and to understand the energies at play at certain times.

Horoscopes are usually based on the position of the stars in relation to the zodiacal signs. Each zodiac sign has specific characteristics and qualities, and horoscopes offer advice, recommendations and forecasts according to the current position of the stars in relation to each sign. Although some people take these forecasts as a guide, it is important to remember that the interpretation of a horoscope is general and may not apply accurately to every individual.

Personalized consultations with astrologers

In addition to general horoscopes, many people choose to consult professional astrologers to get a more personalized and detailed view of their own natal chart. These consultations involve the analysis of the position of the planets at the time of birth and their relationship to the zodiacal signs, astral houses and other astronomical elements. From this information, astrologers can provide a personalized and specific interpretation of how these elements may influence each individual’s life.

Personalized consultations with astrologers provide the opportunity to explore deeper aspects of personality, challenges and opportunities that may arise at different stages of life. Astrologers can offer guidance on specific topics, answer questions, or chart long-term patterns and trends. However, it is important to maintain a critical approach and remember that these interpretations are based on traditions and symbolic beliefs, not on scientific evidence.

Empowerment and self-knowledge through astrology

Astrology can also be a tool for empowerment and self-knowledge. By studying the elements of the natal chart, zodiac signs and other astrological aspects, individuals can gain a greater understanding of themselves, their strengths and weaknesses, their emotional patterns and potential areas for growth. This perspective can help people make more informed decisions, leverage their talents and address challenges with greater clarity.

Astrology gives us the opportunity to reflect on our identity, our relationships and our purpose in life. By recognizing astrological influences, we can take a broader view of ourselves and our environment. This can lead to a higher level of self-reflection, personal growth and spiritual development. However, it is important to remember that astrology does not determine our destiny, but rather offers us another tool to explore and understand our existence.

Criticisms and controversies about astrology.

Astrology, despite its cultural impact, has faced numerous criticisms from the scientific community due to its lack of scientific foundation. In this section we will explore the main criticisms and controversies associated with this ancient practice.

The pseudoscientific nature of astrology

Astrology is considered a pseudoscience due to its lack of scientific verification and the lack of empirical evidence to support its claims. Although it is based on the interpretation of the movements and positions of the stars, there is no scientific evidence to support their influence on the personality or destiny of individuals.

Critics argue that astrology lacks solid scientific foundations and is based more on beliefs and superstitions than on verifiable data. In addition, many of the astrological statements are vague and ambiguous, making them susceptible to subjective interpretation.

Scientific rejection and confirmation bias in astrology

The scientific community has widely rejected astrology as a serious and valid discipline. Scientific studies conducted to evaluate the veracity of astrology have consistently shown that there is no significant correlation between the position of the stars and the personality or destiny of individuals.

In addition, astrology can be subject to confirmation bias, where people tend to selectively interpret and remember information that fits their astrological beliefs. This can generate a false sense of validity and accuracy in astrological predictions.

Perspectives and opinions on astrology in today’s society.

In today’s society, opinions about astrology are diverse. Some see it as a simple diversion or entertainment, while others see it as a useful tool for self-knowledge and guidance in life. However, most of the scientific community and skeptics consider astrology to be a pseudoscience with no empirical basis.

It is important to note that astrology has been the subject of criticism and debate, but continues to be practiced and consulted by many people around the world. Proponents of astrology argue that its value lies in its ability to provide a unique, spiritual view of the world, and that its popularity persists due to a combination of cultural tradition, media influence and the human desire to find meaning in the cosmos.