Astrology can offer a fascinating and accurate (when read properly) lens through which we can gain insights into our personalities, strengths and challenges. By understanding our natal chart, a snapshot of the sky at the moment of our birth, we can navigate day-to-day with greater clarity and self-awareness. In this article, we will explore how to read your natal chart and use it as a tool to navigate the ever-changing cosmic energies that influence our lives.
GATHER YOUR NATAL CHART INFORMATION
To read your birth chart, you’ll need your birth date, time and location. With this information you can generate your chart using various online resources, or consult an astrologer for a more personalised interpretation. Your natal chart will provide a map of the positions of the planets, signs and houses at the time of your birth.
UNDERSTAND THE BASICS
A birth chart consists of several key components. The planets represent different aspects of your personality and life experiences. The signs indicate the qualities and characteristics associated with each planet. The houses represent different areas of life, such as career, relationships, and spirituality. As you delve into your natal chart, familiarise yourself with these basic components to gain a foundational understanding.
IDENTIFY DOMINANT PLANETS AND ASPECTS
Certain planets and aspects in your natal chart will have a more significant influence on your life. Identify the dominant planets by noting which ones are in prominent positions or make strong aspects to other planets. For example, a planet located near the Ascendant or Midheaven may have a more pronounced impact. Pay attention to the aspects between planets, as they reveal the dynamics and energies at play in your life.
EXPLORE YOUR SUN, MOON AND RISING SIGN
The Sun, Moon, and Rising Sign (also known as the Ascendant) are three essential components of your natal chart. The Sun represents your core essence and life purpose, the Moon reflects your emotions and instincts, and the Rising Sign signifies how you present yourself to the world. Understanding these three elements can provide valuable insights into your personality and how you navigate day-to-day experiences.
You also may want to consider your Venus and Chiron for more depth and understanding of your personal journey.
CONSIDER TRANSITS AND PROGRESSIONS
To navigate day-to-day astrology, it’s essential to consider the current transits and progressions in relation to your natal chart. Transits occur when the planets in the sky form aspects to the planets in your natal chart.
Progressions, on the other hand, represent the gradual evolution of your natal chart over time. Pay attention to significant transits and progressions, as they can highlight specific themes or opportunities for growth in your life.
You can also look at the astrology ahead and decipher where and how it could affect you. For example, my musing on the retrogrades closing out 2023 (find it here) outlines how some planets will be behaving at certain times. For example, 6 planets will be in retrograde so where does that affect you personally? You might find that you’re a Leo, so Venus retrograde could be something for you to prepare well for.
KEEP A JOURNAL AND REFLECT REGULARLY
Maintaining a journal can be a powerful tool for tracking and reflecting on the cosmic energies at play in your life, as well as noticing your own patterns.
You could note significant transits, progressions and aspects that you experience and see if they correspond with how you’re feeling and what you’re experiencing. Reflect on how these energies manifest in your day-to-day experiences, emotions and interactions. Over time, you may notice patterns and themes that can deepen your understanding of yourself and your journey.
Reading your natal chart can be a valuable tool for navigating day-to-day astrology. By understanding the basic components, identifying dominant planets and aspects, exploring your Sun, Moon, and Rising Sign, and considering transits and progressions, you can gain insights into your unique cosmic blueprint.
Remember that astrology is another tool for self-reflection and personal growth. You can use your natal chart as a guide to navigate the ever-changing cosmic energies with greater self-awareness and intention on your journey of self-discovery.
If you’re looking for guidance, you can always check out my Patreon community where I offer bonus episodes on the energy of the times, plus moon ceremonies twice a month, and more. However, if you want more personal support, I offer shamanic healing sessions here.
Nancy El Amor
Shamanic Heartspace 