Last week, I attended the Joyful Heart Psychic and Wellness Fair in Eugene, Oregon. I was struck by the great variety of healers, psychics, palmists, and astrologers. In particular, I was interested in how people within the same discipline each offered a distinct approach to their craft. Different strokes for different folks, as they say.

This experience led me to reflect on my own approach to astrology. Certainly, my approach is distinct to me, and I want my clients to know that before they arrive! There are a lot of astrologers out there, and a lot of astrological philosophies. If you’re searching for the right astrologer, it can be tricky and frustrating finding your ideal astrologer. 

So, if you’re on the lookout for an astrologer, or if you’ve signed up for a reading and are simply curious, I’m writing this post for you.

Some people believe that astrology is fatalistic, that it will predict your future and tell you what to expect, that it won’t empower you to take action in your life. This is not what I believe.

I believe astrology is a fantastic tool to help you understand yourself better—your multifaceted personality, your desires, your hopes and fears, your challenges and boundaries. I also believe that tools are meant to be used. In other words, once you gain insight into an area of your life or your personal make-up, it’s time to make a plan to harness that energy and use if for your benefit!

Whether you're in the Eugene sun or not, I've noticed an increase in first-time astrology seekers! I've made a handy list of what you need to know to get the most from your 1st (or 2nd or 3rd or 99th) astrology reading.

Among the top questions asked of astrologers (and astrology enthusiasts) are: Why do you like this stuff? How does it work? Isn’t it all a lot of hooey?

So, if you’ve booked an astrology reading and find your coworker peeking at your calendar, or if you tell your mom/boyfriend/girlfriend/best friend, and they say, "What? How on earth can astrology actually work?" or "Why do you like it?", here’s a list for you.

Did you know that the date for Easter was established in the year 325 by the Council of Nicaea? They debated between using a solar/Julian calendar or a lunar calendar, and eventually determined that Easter would take place the first Sunday after the first full moon on or after the vernal equinox (a solar and lunar approach). 

I mention this for one reason: humans have invented many ways to keep track of events using solar bodies!

Lately, I’ve been asked a question about time and systems within astrology that this holiday is the perfect time to address.

Q: Since the stars don’t line up the way they used to, are the dates astrologers use (for sun signs) inaccurate?