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Sometimes online astrology info can feel a bit like Web-MD...as if something is terribly wrong with you or your chart. I often warn clients about doing online searches for specific things about their chart as the most popular sites often jump to worst-case scenarios or extreme versions of a chart combination.
I've had clients come to me worried about how they will never get married or have children--or worst case someone was even told by an astrologer they were going to jail. (Still trying to figure out why in the world someone would say that.)
Sorting through the vast expanse of astrological information can be overwhelming, and it's crucial to develop a discerning eye to separate fact from fiction with cosmic wisdom.
Beware the Astrology Apps & Astro-Influencers
I recently had a client (you know who you are!) write me with joy that she finally deleted her Astro apps, particularly The Pattern. She mentioned just how off it felt to use such generic interpretations that were often wrong in the long-run. While AI and apps can give basic information and perhaps a great intro for the natal chart, astrology--like the soul--thrives on complexity and paradox. Two things an algorithm can't cultivate.
In addition, social media has given rise to a plethora of astrologers, tarot readers, and spiritual influencers. And I am aware of the strangeness of me naming this while having a lot of followers on Instagram.;) Many offer valuable insights, it's essential to approach their content with a critical mind. Even as someone who thinks social media is great, I'm aware that sometimes certain posts appeal to the masses when they cause alert or make predictions. The loop of then needing to keep follow to get answers or advice becomes imminent in these dynamics.
And I always recommend trust what feels good to you and leave the rest. Remember, not all astrological information is created equal.
Here are some specific things that put my Astro spidey sense on alert:
And/Or Predictions Focused on Good and Bad: Saying things such as "this will be good" or this will be bad," for this reason I don't often resonate with Hellenistic astrology as it assumes some placements are good or bad--end of story. To me, all zodiac signs, all planets, all houses have both blessings and burdens. And the same can be true about transits and other timing.
Ask "Does This Apply to Me Based on What I know About my Chart?": A solid foundation of your own chart allows you to know what to pay attention to and what to ignore. Know your aspects, which planets are retrograde and in forward motion. This knowledge will empower you to evaluate the accuracy of astrological interpretations. Example: If you were born with Mercury retrograde motion, the generalized interpretations of Mercury Retrograde phases may not apply to you as your chart may prefer this cycle.
Notice Credentials: Look for astrologers with formal training or certifications, not just read a few books and now do readings. While experience and intuition is valuable, it's essential to get a sense of how they learned or what they value in astrology from an ethical standpoint. I also look for information that isn't just based on self-study. Courses, mentors, other people help shape the astrological lens into more openness.
Consider the Source: Be mindful of the platform where you consume astrological content. Reputable websites, blogs, and podcasts often adhere to higher standards of accuracy. Social media is great, but Google SEO has its own way of verifying reliable information.
Look for Evidence-Based Approaches: While astrology is not a science, some astrologers incorporate psychological and sociological perspectives into their work. This can provide a more grounded and practical approach.
Trust Your Intuition: Ultimately, the best way to discern reliable astrological information is to trust your intuition. If something feels off or overly simplistic, it's probably best to explore other sources.
Common Astrological Misconceptions to notice:
Sun Sign Horoscopes: While fun and entertaining, these generalized readings often lack depth and accuracy. A comprehensive birth chart analysis provides a much richer understanding of an individual.
Predictive Astrology: Astrology can offer insights and tendencies, but it's not a crystal ball. Avoid astrologers who make definitive predictions about future events.
Astrology as a Substitute for Professional Help: Astrology can be a tool for self-discovery, but it should not replace therapy or medical advice.
As I look over this list, I certainly in my early years of practice would have been guilty of many of these things. Unsure my voice or how to express my astrological wisdom without the training or experience to back it up. I preferred overly simplistic interpretations to the complex ones about the planets and going into more depth that social media doesn't often allow for. In many ways over generalized information is safer as astrology can be so complex we might want to brush over the tricky parts.
And of course all of these are most important would be trusting yourself, even more so than this post.:)
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