Astrology is a continuing practice of assessment, interpretation, application, and documentation of planetary influence on earthly inhabitants, which is recorded as an astrological system first established by Babylonian society. Just as astrology advanced and developed in ancient times through numerous collaborations and contributions, also as in contemporary times, signifying a continuation of advancement through several methods, experiences, and cultures. Practitioners or those who frequently apply the artful technique of astrology, believe to receive support in discerning human matters and events by studying the cosmological realm. Particularly in Natal (Genethliacal) astrology, in order to actuate the most precise factors involving an individual and apply organizational suitability, there must be an accurate foundation to conscientiously interpret the natal chart. An individual’s Year, Month, Day, Time, and Definite Geographical Location of birth is required and may be documented on their birth certificate. Accurate information may also be found in an individual’s birth or family record book or by obtainment through Vital Records. Inquiring with close relatives or friends of the family for information is an option if documentation or medical records aren’t available. Otherwise, alternative methods and principles are applied.

 

 

Cognitive Astrology

 

What is a cognitive approach of self through astrology? The basis of greater understanding is having a sturdy foundation of one’s self. If an individual is unaware of their astrological (zodiacal) composition or unable to suitably interpret it, this may signify recurring challenges in relationships and experiences. Although some factors are beyond our control in life, it is reassuring to know that there may be alternatives toward gaining a more harmonious understanding about events which take place in one’s life, becoming better equipped to then apply knowledge to all areas of development, whether relational, inner developmental, or any further matters.

 

 

Eastern Astrology

This regional atmosphere of astrology, traditionally and consistently implements Sidereal (Nirayana) application through calculations of the constellations in the heavens, which is noted for astronomical accuracy of data due to its overall cosmologically inclusive presentation of precession (Ayanamsa), stating discrepancies between the Sidereal system (Nirayana) and Tropical system (Sayana). There are some significant cultural differences compared to Western natives, yet the system itself is believed to withstand the duration of time. Integrative Studies and Arts is educated and knowledgeable in Jyotish (Vedic) Eastern and Western practices. Respectively, the Eastern system is the closest to origin of astrological systems. Although Integrative Studies and Arts scholastically engages with Vedic, ancient and traditionally holistic wisdom, it’s only reasonable in hopes to achieve respectful applicability to our Western experiences. Even so, anyone is welcome to be a part of the community and the above does not discount, by any means, the abilities of the Western system. The Western system was the first foundation of astrological knowledge in connection to the founder of Integrative Studies and Arts. Integrative Studies and Arts is of a contemporary presence and acknowledges all contributions to astrology, past and present. Some of the following will be found in Western practice:

 

 

Elemental Energies

 

Astrology references the zodiac which is a belt shaped region of the sky. Pertaining to astrology or horoscopes, there are twelve zodiac signs determined by the twelve divisions of the year on their respective dates in four, triplicities that encompass traits of individuals born during that particular frame or date time. These twelve zodiac signs will share four of the representative elements. The four elements are fire, earth, air and water. This may further define the energy and representation of individuals that share the same astrological (zodiac) sign and element. The four elements are known as the establishers of life and its giving forces/energy. Listed below are some initiate descriptors/challenging aspects of the four elemental energies, celestial bodies’ associations, polarities (extroverted or introverted), and associated astrological (zodiac) signs:

 

 

Fire Influenced Descriptors

 

Action focused, a developer, adventurous, a pioneer, broad-minded, can display high levels of energy, confident, courageous, creative, dynamic, enthusiastic, faithful, generous, imaginatively robust, loving, philosophical, quickness of wit, spontaneous, and warmhearted.

 

​​Challenging Aspects

 

At times excessively daring, blindly optimistic, bossy, folly, interfering, intolerant, pompous, quick-tempered, reactive, restless, and tactless and impulsive.

 

Celestial bodies associated with fire are Mars, the Sun, and Jupiter.

 

​Fire embodies what may be considered masculine energy, odd in number in the order of the zodiac, meaning of more activeness outwardly, generating factors by external energy, polarity (extroverted, yang).

 

​Fire Astrological or Zodiac Signs: Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius.

 

​

Earth Influenced Descriptors

 

Accurate, builders, careful, detail focused, determined, disciplined, enduring, helpful and dependable, humorous, intellect, loving, managers and multi-taskers, mindful, modest, observant, patient, persistent, practical, reliable, reserved, resourceful, security focused, shy, and slower paced yet efficient.

 

​Challenging Aspects

 

Fatalistic, fussy, grudging, hoarding, inflexible, miserly, overcritical, perfectionist, pessimistic, possessive, resentful, and self-indulgent.

 

​Celestial bodies associated with earth are Venus, Mercury, and Saturn.

 

​Earth embodies what may be considered feminine energy, even in number in the order of the zodiac, meaning of more activeness inwardly, generating factors by internal energy, polarity (introverted, yin).

 

​Earth Astrological or Zodiac Signs: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn.

 

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Air Influenced Descriptors

 

Adaptable, animated, charming, communicative, diplomatic, diverse, easygoing, eloquent, friendly, honest, humanistic, independent, intellect, inventive, peaceable, romantic, social, and youthful.

 

​Challenging Aspects

 

Changeable, contrary, cunning, detached, flirtatious, gullible, inconsistent, indecisive, intellect is often applied to their feelings or others' as well as expectations, nervous, self-indulgent, superficial, tense, unemotional, and unpredictable.

 

​Celestial bodies associated with air are Mercury, Venus, Uranus, and Saturn.

 

​Air embodies what may be considered masculine energy, odd in number in the order of the zodiac, meaning of more activeness outwardly, generating factors by external energy, polarity (extroverted, yang).

 

​Air Astrological or Zodiac Signs: Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius.

 

​

Water Influenced Descriptors

 

​Can embody emotional depth, caring, deeply imaginative, emotionally opulent, exciting, kind, loving, magnetic, may have paranormal experiences more frequently compared to others, passionate, perceptive, possesses sensitivity, and protective.

 

​Challenging Aspects

 

​Compromise of will, compulsive, emotionally over-stimulated, idealistic, inability to let go, obsessive, resentful, secretive, touchy, and vague.

 

​Celestial bodies associated with water are the Moon, Pluto, Mars, Neptune, and Jupiter.

 

​Water embodies what may be considered feminine energy, even in number in the order of the zodiac, meaning of more activeness inwardly, generating factors by internal energy, polarity (introverted, yin).

 

​Water Astrological or Zodiac Signs: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pisces.

 

 

Astrological or Zodiac Signs

 

​Mentioned in the previous text about elemental energies, there are twelve astrological or zodiac signs. They are frequently utilized as a reference of archetypal nature associated with individuals born in the respective frame and date time. The astrological (zodiac) signs are represented by the ambassadors of the sky, mainly of the animal kingdom. Polarity can be applied to Energy. Modes (modality) can be applied to Strength. The dates below are approximate. 

 

​Natal astrology generally begins with the astrological (zodiac) fire sign of Aries, the Ram, signifying the Spring/Vernal equinox. Some initiate descriptors and Astrological (Zodiac) Signs’ planetary focus:

 

 

Aries

 

Symbol: Ram

 

Element: Fire

 

Energy: More of a masculine composition (Extroverted, Yang)

 

Strength: Cardinal

 

Dates: March 21 thru April 19

 

Planetary focus: Mars, Activeness, Courage, Energy, Strength

 

​

Taurus

 

Symbol: Bull

 

Element: Earth

 

Energy: More of a feminine composition (Introverted, Yin)

 

Strength: Fixed

 

Dates: April 20 thru May 20

 

Planetary focus: Venus, Beauty, Enjoyment, Love, Pleasure, Resourcefulness

 

​

Gemini

 

Symbol: The Twins

 

Element: Air

 

Energy: More of a masculine composition (Extroverted, Yang)

 

Strength: Mutable

 

Dates: May 21 thru June 21

 

Planetary focus: Mercury, Communication, Creative Thought, Education

 

​

Cancer

 

Symbol: Crab

 

Element: Water

 

Energy: More of a feminine composition (Introverted, Yin)

 

Strength: Cardinal

 

Dates: June 22 thru July 22

 

Planetary focus: Moon (Maternal Aspect), Emotion, Instinct, Protection, Rhythms

​​

 

Leo

​

Symbol: Lion

 

Element: Fire

 

Energy: More of a masculine composition (Extroverted, Yang)

 

Strength: Fixed

 

Dates: July 23 thru August 22

 

Planetary focus: Sun (Paternal Aspect), Confidence, Creation, Goals, Purpose 

 

​

Virgo

 

Symbol: Maiden or Virgin

 

Element: Earth

 

Energy: More of a feminine composition (Introverted, Yin)

 

Strength: Mutable

 

Dates: August 23 thru September 22

 

Planetary focus: Mercury, Communication, Education, Intellect

 

 

Libra

 

Symbol: Balance Scales

 

Element: Air

 

Energy: More of a masculine composition (Extroverted, Yang)

 

Strength: Cardinal

 

Dates: September 23 thru October 22

 

Planetary focus: Venus, Aesthetics, Cooperation, Love, Relationships

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​

Scorpio

 

Symbol: Scorpion

 

Element: Water

 

Energy: More of a feminine composition (Introverted, Yin)

 

Strength: Fixed

 

Dates: October 23 thru November 21

 

Planetary focus: (Mars), Pluto, Cycles, Empowerment, Metamorphosis

 

​

Sagittarius

 

Symbol: The Archer

 

Element: Fire

 

Energy: More of a masculine composition (Extroverted, Yang)

 

Strength: Mutable

 

Dates: November 22 thru December 21

 

Planetary focus: Jupiter, Enthusiasm, Growth, Opportunities, Principles

 

​

Capricorn

 

Symbol: Sea Goat

 

Element: Earth

 

Energy: More of a feminine composition (Introverted, Yin)

 

Strength: Cardinal

 

Dates: December 22 thru January 19

 

Planetary focus: Saturn, Dedicatory Work, Discipline, Patience, Structure

 

​

Aquarius

 

Symbol: The Water Bearer

 

Element: Air

 

Energy: More of a masculine composition (Extroverted, Yang)

 

Strength: Fixed

 

Dates: January 20 thru February 20

 

Planetary focus: (Saturn), Uranus, Independence, Innovation, Liberation

 

​

Pisces

 

Symbol: The Two Fish

 

Element: Water

 

Energy: More of a feminine composition (Introverted, Yin)

 

Strength: Mutable

 

Dates: February 21 thru March 20

 

Planetary focus: (Jupiter), Neptune, Imagination (The Arts), Romanticization, Spirit, Transcendence

​

 

Chiron

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Symbol: Key-Shaped Glyph

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Planetary focus: Compassion, Heal, Teach

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