Tips for Learning Astrology

You want to know more about astrology?

You might know your Sun Sign, possibly even more than that. You may know nothing at all. But the point is, you have the desire to learn more about the language, symbolism, and psychology of astrology, you just don't know where to start!

Starting to study astrology can be daunting for the newly interested. There are many people who take just a peek into the subject and then walk away shaking their heads because of its complex nature. There are others who remain interested in learning, yet they really do not know where to go in order to learn more. Are you are one of the people who truly has an interest in gaining more knowledge in this subject? Whether it is to use for yourself or eventually become a professional, there are paths that you can take to being your journey beyond astrology "cookbooks" and into understanding how all aspects of astrology and the universe work together.

One of the best ways to learn astrology is with an experienced astrologer. If you have a new age or alternative bookstore in your area, you can stop by and ask some questions. There may be astrologers in the area that will offer classes or private instruction. Some may occasionally speak at a bookstore on the subject of astrology. You might ask a shop owner if they have a schedule of events. With events as well as "psychic fairs", you may have the opportunity to meet a local astrologer who can help you learn, or at least point you in the right direction. You can use the astrologer directory at Metalog to locate astrologers in your area as well. Unfortunately, not everyone lives in an area that offers these possibilities. In these cases, you have to learn to rely on yourself.

Thank goodness for the Internet, as there are far more resources for the budding astrologer and student than ever before. The serious student has access to books, magazines, web sites with tutorials, and even online classes. The AFA (American Federation of Astrologers) offers instruction and testing for astrology certification. They also offer information and study aids for purchase. The NCGR (National Council for Geocosmic Research) also offers classes and exams. You can take self study classes online at Avalon College to further your knowledge of astrology. You may also be able to find individual astrologers and private teachers on the net who may be willing to work with you.

Now, the last problem you might be facing is that while you are still interested, you currently do not have the cash flow to invest in a class or astrologer to teach you at this time. While I highly suggest that if you are truly interested that you take the above steps at some point in your learning, it isn't necessary to begin that way. To begin on your own, using the school of life to guide you, is a step from which many successful astrologers began. There are some tools you will need, however.

1. A brain. You say you have one of those already? Great!

2. The ability to be observant. If you can remove yourself from daily life for a little while every day to pay attention to the world around you, you have what it takes.

3. Some basic astrology books like Parker's Astrology by Julia and Derek Parker and The Astrologer's Handbook by Sakoian and Acker (these are the cookbook type), or The Inner Sky by Stepher Forrest(which is more anecdotal and easier to handle) an ephemeris (list of daily planetary placements), and Llewellyn's Astrology Calendar.

4. A copy of Astrolog or other astrology software program where you can easily run a real-time animated chart.

You will have to learn all the symbols and commit them to memory. Use the books to get a basic idea behind the planets, signs, and houses. Then, you will use your calendar, ephemeris, and astrology software to watch the planetary movements for the day. When you know what time a planet will change signs, cross the midheaven, make a major aspect to another planet, or some other movement, you will stop at that time to watch the world around you. See and feel the changes in the atmosphere and in the way folks conduct business. Observation will give you the best basis for understanding the different signs, houses, and planet that there is. You have to live them consciously to begin to truly understand and recognize them at an intuitive level.

Most of all, just do it! Astrology software will also let you calculate a chart and print it out for your own use. Take advantage of that and use it for yourself, loved ones, celebrities, whomever. Use the knowledge you gain from the observation and the books to practice. Eventually, you will want to bounce what you have learned off other astrologers and students for help with refining your technique and your ability to put it all together. You will also ultimately need to learn how to cast a chart by hand, use different house systems, and experiment with different areas of astrology like psychological, horary, or financial astrology. In the meantime, if you are focused, you can and will learn this ancient language