Even in my relatively open-minded community in coastal California, someone recently told me she was warned about the devilish nature of astrology. I rarely hear such things from the people who work with me. Those who know nothing about astrology soon see its value and the role it has in illuminating our lives. But there still exists the perpetuation of ideas from centuries ago that were based on human fears. Spreading these fears served to keep the masses under control.

Tapping into the rhythms and vibrations of planetary bodies in our solar system is a way to connect with our natural world. I’ve been interested in how the planets affect our lives since I was eight years old — that’s 40 years — and I haven’t come across anything sinister in either my studies or my practice. On the contrary, I’ve found doorways to higher wisdom, inner peace, and solace. It is a tool that helps access your personal power and connect you with your Higher Power, in whatever way you choose. Astrology is fascinating and rich, having to do with the beauty and harmony of the natural world.

Astrology was used in the early church (some European churches still have astrological symbolism carved into their interiors). It acquired a negative association as Christianity expanded. That was a time of great tension and suspicion between the church and the people. Astrology was banned in some places and condemned as a tool of witchcraft. However, it didn’t die out fully because people were unable to dismiss or ignore the knowledge that planets affect our lives on earth. If earth’s relatively tiny moon alters ocean tides, how can it be that much larger bodies have no impact? I’ve been following the effect of the planets almost my whole life, and they certainly do have a say in our lives. There isn’t anything sinister about it. It’s simply nature.