How to use Astrology Holistically in your Spiritual Journey
As a curious spiritual seeker I’ve devoted myself to learning many different esoteric texts and wisdom systems. I want to share about two today - Astrology and a line from The Shiiva Sutras.
The Shiva Sutras are a collection of aphorisms that expound the philosophy of Kashmir Shaivism, a school of Hindu philosophy focused on the worship of Lord Shiva. I studied this with Tara Judelle during lockdown and it’s such a deep work, a revisit it often.
One passage that often comes to mind when I’m constantly learning is:
"Jnana bandha, jnana mokshaḥ" (ज्ञान बंध ज्ञान मोक्षः)
This translates to "Knowledge is bondage, knowledge is liberation."
The aphorism reflects the idea that while knowledge can bind us to the limitations of the ego and the material world, true liberation (moksha) is also found through knowledge, specifically the transcendental knowledge that leads to self-realization and union with the divine.
I see this line so often with Astrology. In my early years I would go SO deep into learning astrology I’d be checking transits everyday to make decisions rather than tuning in with myself. In those periods Astrology felt like a bondage and when I let it go I could relax and come back into my inner knowing and inner astrology.
But as we’ll explore below Astrology knowledge is also a liberation.
I outline here how I feel we can find the balance for how we use astrological knowledge, for me solid spiritual meditation is a 100% necessary foundation.
Astrology as Bondage
Astrology, when misinterpreted or misapplied, can inadvertently become a source of bondage rather than liberation. One of the dangers lies in the proliferation of astrological content on the internet, where individuals may encounter oversimplified or sensationalized interpretations that fail to capture the complexity of their birth charts. Reading bad astrology or taking something out of context in a chart can lead to the formation of false self-limiting beliefs, reinforcing negative stereotypes or narratives that may not accurately reflect one's true potential.
Furthermore, each astrological archetype has a higher octave healthy embodied side and a lower octave shadow side. For example, the assertiveness of Mars can manifest as healthy self-assertion and initiative or as aggressive and confrontational behavior, depending on how it is channeled. Similarly, the emotional sensitivity of the Moon can be expressed as nurturing and intuitive empathy or as moodiness and emotional reactivity.
It's important to recognize that astrology is not inherently good or bad; rather, it is a tool for self-awareness and personal growth. What ultimately determines the value of a placement or aspect in a birth chart is not its inherent "goodness" or "badness," but rather how it is integrated and expressed in the individual's life. A challenging aspect may present opportunities for growth and transformation, while a harmonious aspect may offer blessings and support. By embracing the holistic nature of astrology and recognizing the inherent potential within each placement, we can liberate ourselves from limiting beliefs and embrace the full spectrum of human experience.
Astrology as Liberation
Astrology, when approached with depth and mindfulness, can serve as a powerful tool for liberation and self-empowerment. One of its greatest strengths lies in its capacity for archetypal multivalence, meaning that each astrological symbol contains a spectrum of possible meanings and expressions. By exploring the multifaceted nature of our birth charts, we gain insights into the rich tapestry of our psyches and the potential strengths and challenges inherent within.
Astrology invites us to recognize and cultivate our potential strengths, talents, and qualities, as indicated by the placements and aspects in our birth charts. Whether it's the visionary creativity of Neptune, the transformative power of Pluto, or the expansive wisdom of Jupiter, astrology offers a roadmap for harnessing our innate gifts and fulfilling our soul's purpose.
Furthermore, transits in astrology are not merely random cosmic events but potent initiations in our lives. When we find ourselves in a challenging transit, such as a Saturn return or a Pluto square, we can view it as an opportunity for growth and transformation. While these transits may bring temporary hardships or obstacles, they also serve as catalysts for awakening and evolution. Knowing that such transits are not forever and that they ultimately serve the growth of our consciousness can provide comfort and perspective during difficult times.
During challenging transits, we have the opportunity to dig deep and do inner work, confronting our fears, limitations, and shadow aspects with courage and compassion. By embracing the lessons and insights that arise during these initiatory periods, we can emerge stronger, wiser, and more aligned with our true selves. In this way, astrology becomes a powerful ally on our journey of self-discovery and self-actualization, guiding us towards greater authenticity, wholeness, and liberation.
Finding Balance: Integrating Astrology and Meditation
While astrology offers profound insights into our psyche and life's journey, it's essential to complement this knowledge with practices that cultivate inner stillness, clarity, and intuition. Meditation serves as a powerful tool for finding balance amidst the dynamic energies of astrology, helping us navigate the cosmic currents with grace and wisdom.
1. Cultivating Inner Stillness: Meditation allows us to quiet the incessant chatter of the mind and connect with the silent depths of our being. By turning inward and tuning into the present moment, we create space for insight, reflection, and inner guidance. In the stillness of meditation, we can attune to the subtle rhythms of the cosmos and access deeper layers of wisdom within ourselves.
2. Cultivating Clarity and Intuition: Meditation sharpens our mental clarity and enhances our intuitive faculties, enabling us to discern the deeper meanings and messages encoded within our birth charts. Through regular meditation practice, we develop the capacity to see beyond the surface of astrological symbols and tap into their archetypal essence. This heightened awareness allows us to navigate life's challenges with greater discernment and grace.
3. Embracing the Flow of Transits: Meditation teaches us to surrender to the ebb and flow of life, including the cyclical nature of astrological transits. Rather than resisting or fearing challenging transits, we can approach them with a spirit of openness and acceptance, recognizing them as opportunities for growth and transformation. In the stillness of meditation, we can attune to the deeper meanings and lessons inherent within each transit, trusting in the inherent wisdom of the universe.
4. Embodying the Higher Octave of Astrological Energies: Meditation enables us to embody the higher octave of astrological energies, transcending the limitations of ego and aligning with our soul's purpose. By cultivating qualities such as compassion, presence, and inner peace, we can elevate our consciousness and express the highest potential of each astrological placement. In this way, meditation becomes a gateway to liberation, guiding us towards greater authenticity, fulfillment, and spiritual awakening.
5. Integrating Astrology and Meditation: By integrating astrology and meditation into a holistic spiritual practice, we create a synergistic relationship between cosmic wisdom and inner transformation. Meditation deepens our understanding of astrology, while astrology enriches our meditation practice with cosmic insights and archetypal symbolism. Together, these practices form a potent alchemical blend, supporting us on our journey of self-discovery, healing, and awakening.
Astro Curious to learn more?
Watch my free Intro to Astrology webinar where I dive deep into this topic as well as how to cast your own astrology chart.
You can also join my meditation and astrology Spiritual Nutrition Community.
Or book in for a reading or astrological mentoring here.