Tuesday, October 07, 2025

Astrology 101: Wait… There’s More Than One Kind?!

So, you’ve finally figured out your big three (Sun, Moon, and Rising), started dabbling in transits, and maybe even survived a Mercury retrograde or two. But then someone throws out, “Oh, I only use sidereal,” or “What ray does your sun sign sit in?” and suddenly you’re spiraling back into “I have no idea what any of this means” territory.

Take a breath. There's a lot to digest here.

Let’s break down the many kinds of astrology practiced around the world and help you figure out which one might be the best fit for your cosmic journey.

Western Astrology: The One You Already Know

If you've ever read a horoscope in a magazine, pulled up your birth chart online, or had someone guess your sign based on your vibe you’re already familiar with Western astrology. This system uses the tropical zodiac, which is aligned with the seasons, not the actual constellations. (Yep. Aries season always kicks off with spring).

Western astrology is great for:

Personality insights
Timing life events (transits and progressions)
Relationship dynamics
Journaling and self-awareness

🔭Want to track your transits, journal through moon phases, and learn what each planet actually does? Astrology Notion Template is made for this. It’s beginner-friendly, visually beautiful, and designed to help you actually use what you’re learning.

Astrology isn’t a one-size-fits-all system. It’s more like a celestial buffet of sorts, with different cultures, philosophies, and techniques bringing their own flavor to the table. Whether you’re here for spiritual growth, personality insight, or predictive accuracy, there’s a type of astrology that fits your vibe.

Let’s break it down into the main branches:

1. Natal Astrology

AKA Birth Chart Astrology...

This is where most people start. Natal astrology focuses on your birth chart (a snapshot of the sky at the exact moment and place you were born). It reveals your personality, emotional patterns, strengths, blind spots, and more. Your “big three” (Sun, Moon, and Rising/Ascendent signs) all come from this system.

Purpose: Understand yourself on a psychological level
Best for: Personality discovery, self-reflection, and inner work
Used in: Western, Vedic, Hellenistic, and Evolutionary systems

👉 If you’re using my Astrology Notion Template, the birth chart section is where the magic begins.

2. Mundane Astrology

World Events...

Mundane astrology is the OG of the OG and it dates back to ancient Babylon, when kings used the stars to predict floods, wars, and political shifts. Instead of focusing on individuals, it looks at collective energy and world events.

Purpose: Predict or interpret global trends
Best for: Geopolitical analysis, economic forecasts, cultural movements
Used in: Western and Vedic traditions, especially for eclipse cycles and planetary alignments

3. Electional Astrology

When Should I…?

This branch helps you choose the best date and time to start something important like launching a business, getting surgery, signing contracts, or even making a big move.

Purpose: Pick the most astrologically aligned timing
Best for: Weddings, business launches, surgeries, travel plans
Used in: Primarily Western and Vedic traditions

If you’ve ever wondered why your wedding planner consulted the moon phases, now you know. Teehee.

4. Horary Astrology

One Question. One Chart. One Answer.

This system answers specific questions using a chart cast for the moment the question is asked. Think of it like cosmic and celestial troubleshooting.

Purpose: Get an answer to a yes/no or detailed question
Best for: Lost objects, relationship clarity, job opportunities
Used in: Traditional Western and Hellenistic practices

No birth time required for this type.

What Is Western Astrology (Why It’s So Accurate)

You know your zodiac sign. Maybe you know your "Big 3" (Sun, Moon, Ascendent/Rising). You’ve even checked your horoscope before and thought, “Whoa… how is this so accurate?” Welcome to the beautifully weird and wildly accurate world of Western astrology where the stars amazing and strategic.

So, what exactly is Western astrology and why does it have this awesome ability to read you like a celestial diary? You can put your telescope away; we're going to break this down in simple terms.

Western Astrology 101 (aka “the one with the 12 signs”)

Western astrology is based on the tropical zodiac system. It's built from and rooted in the relationship between the Earth and the Sun. It’s called tropical because it ties directly to the seasons (think: spring equinox, summer solstice, etc.). Each year, the zodiac begins at Aries season, around March 21, when the Sun crosses the equator and daylight starts winning again.

From there, we move through the familiar 12 signs: Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces each with its own energy, vibe, and personality blueprint.

The Birth Chart: Your Celestial Blueprint

Most people know their “sun sign” (based on your birth date), but that’s just the tip of the stellar iceberg. Your full birth chart is a snapshot of the sky at the exact moment you were born showing where all the planets were, not just the Sun.

This includes your Moon sign (emotions), Rising sign (first impressions), and placements for Mercury, Venus, Mars, and beyond. It’s like the universe handed you a personalized user manual and whether you’ve opened it or not, it’s still influencing everything from your dating style to your daily motivation levels.

“Okay, But How Can This Be Accurate?”

This is where things get super fun. Western astrology works as a great tool, because the planets reflect natural patterns. In the 3D world, I've always worked with data, and my human brain highly relates to the data and calculated aspect. But my higher self and spiritual side also really appreciates the energetic (non-tangible, immeasurable) side.

Just like the Moon pulls ocean tides, planets have their own energetic influence too. When you study astrology, you’re really learning a symbolic language that helps you notice those patterns in yourself and in the world around you. There are many different types of astrology, but today the focus is on tropical.

It’s about self-awareness, timing, and having as much clarity as possible, while also understanding that free will also impacts your trajectory. We always get to where we are meant to go, but free will can either get us there faster or prolong the journey. When we work with astrology, we can get an idea of how we can make the best decisions for our life path. Astrology also allows you to ask yourself some pretty insightful questions.

Like:

“Why do I always feel weird during Mercury retrograde?”
“When’s the best time to launch that business?”
“Why do I keep dating Scorpios?” (We don’t have that answer, but therapy might.)

Why Western Astrology Still Works Today

Western astrology is thriving and becoming more widely known, especially among people craving meaning in a world that feels more chaotic and more dense every day. Astrology helps you pause. Reflect. Zoom out. And in that pause, you just might discover exactly what you needed to know.

Plus, Western astrology evolves with us. Modern astrologers integrate psychology, archetypes, coaching, even trauma work. It’s surprisingly useful in your modern life whether you're scheduling a business product launch, navigating a breakup, or making it through a Saturn transit without crying in public.

Start Exploring Your Chart

If you’re new to this, here’s a tip: start with your Sun, Moon, and Rising signs. Learn how those three interact. Then look at which elements dominate your chart (Fire, Earth, Air, Water), and what that says about your style. You don’t need to become an astrologer overnight. It takes time to understand the language, just get curious.

And if you want a really easy way to explore your chart, track transits, and journal all in one place? I’ve got a digital tool for that…

📌 Try My Astrology Notion Template

Whether you’re a total beginner or a stargazing regular, this all-in-one dashboard helps you track your chart, log transits, and deepen your understanding of astrology without overwhelm. It’s like your personal cosmic control panel. Check it out!.

Western astrology helps you align your energy with the rhythm and energy of the universe, so you’re not constantly swimming upstream. It’s both a mirror and a map, and once you start seeing how it all fits together with your own path…you'll also begin to understand that it's such a valuable tool to integrate into your daily life.

Just don’t blame me when you start saying things like “Aw man...Mercury just retrograded all over me.😭” It's ok, it happens to the best of us. 😆

Sarah W., M. Ed.

Certified in Astro-Sound & Chakra Healing

Let's Connect !!!

[@emjayanm on socials]

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Finding Your Flow: Libra Season 2025 + the Aries Supermoon

From people-pleasing to power moves.

Let's chat about balance, boundaries, and some big feelings.

Welcome to Libra Season where the whole vibe is equal parts “Gimme my peace” and “...also, don't test me.” From September 22 to October 22, the Sun moves through the sign of the scales, asking us to reassess how we do relationships, compromise, aesthetics, and, well, life in general.

This year’s Libra Season starts off super chill, but spoiler alert: we got a few plot twists. The most notable one? A Super Full Moon in Aries on October 6, and it’s not playing around. We may experience us making some bold moves, or have some intense emotions come up. We may also possibly have a sudden desire to start over or finally send that one message you’ve been typing and deleting for weeks.

What Libra Season 2025 Is All About

Libra energy is about balance, but not like the inauthentic kind where you saying “it’s fine, everything's fine” while your eyes twitching. This is real, deep balance the kind that invites you to honor both your needs and the needs of others without losing your voice or who you are in the process.

Ruled by Venus (the planet of love and feminine energy), Libra reminds us that life is meant to be beautiful, intentional, and connected. But at the same time, it also challenges us to stop bending in situations where it costs you too much energy or your authenticity.

This season is ideal for:

Reassessing relationship dynamics
Beautifying your space or wardrobe (yes, a tiny home, workspace or relaxing space refresh counts)
Making decisions (even if you feel like you can’t make decisions)
Working through conflict with more grace and less grudge-holding

October 2025 Astro Energy : Vibes for Your Zodiac Sign

October is a month of transformation and redirection. This month, we’re moving from Libra’s focus on balance and harmony into Scorpio’s depths of truth and rebirth. Along the way, Pluto stations direct in Aquarius, Neptune returns to Pisces, and multiple Grand Trines bring much-needed harmony and flow into our lives.

READ THE OCTOBER ASTROLOGY FORECAST! >> Click Here

This applies to your Sun, Moon & Rising (Ascendent) signs. If you don't know what they are, you can create your free chart here.

Aries

The Full Moon in your sign on October 6 shines a spotlight directly on you. This is a month to stand in your truth, honor your desires, and stop hiding behind compromise. Pluto direct pushes you to redefine your role in groups and communities, while the Libra New Moon later in the month asks you to recalibrate partnerships. Your courage is your guide here but just be sure it’s balanced with care for others.

Taurus

This month pulls your attention to relationships and shared resources. Mercury and Mars in Scorpio stir up deep conversations that could transform the way you connect with partners or collaborators. With Pluto direct, career and long-term goals get a major reset around what you’ve been reflecting on since Spring and these now demands action. Release fears of change and trust the new structures you’re building.

Gemini

Relationships and contracts are highlighted, especially with Venus moving into Libra and activating harmony in your daily exchanges. Pluto’s direct motion could awaken breakthroughs in your beliefs or educational pursuits, asking you to grow beyond old limitations. The end of the month, Mercury in Sagittarius opposite Uranus in your sign, brings surprises so expect conversations or opportunities that shift your perspective dramatically. Stay flexible and open.

Cancer

October brings opportunities for healing and empowerment, particularly in your career and finances. The Grand Trine in Water is especially supportive for your sign long-term stability and growth are possible if you seize the opportunities presenting themselves. The Libra New Moon challenges you to create a stronger foundation in home and family life while still pursuing your ambitions. Let go of fear and trust your ability to nurture new beginnings.

October 2025 Astrology & Energy Forecast

October 2025 Astrology & Energy Forecast: Transformation, Trines & Turning Points

October is a month of transformation and redirection. This month, we’re moving from Libra’s focus on balance and harmony into Scorpio’s depths of truth and rebirth. Along the way, Pluto stations direct in Aquarius, Neptune returns to Pisces, and multiple Grand Trines bring much-needed harmony and flow into our lives.

So what the heck does all of that even mean?

October is a month of endings, fresh starts, and smoother daily flow. We move from Libra’s scales of balance into Scorpio’s depth, which means surface-level ANYTHING won’t cut it anymore.

We’re being asked to face what’s authentic and real and transform because of it. Pluto moving direct pushes us to act on the inner growth we’ve been working on since Spring, while Neptune’s return to Pisces reopens unfinished chapters from the last 13 years so we can finally close them.

Thankfully, the Grand Trines (when three or more planets are all within 120 degrees of each other), this month bring harmony and ease, love, money, and long-term plans to help you move forward more smoothly.

This is a month of both courage and surrender. It's a month of balancing light with dark, clear understanding mixed with some mystery. Let’s walk through the big cosmic events first, then dive into guidance for every zodiac sign.

October 6 – Mercury enters Scorpio + Full Moon in Aries
This is a day that cuts through the fluff. Conversations might get deeper than usual, and you may find yourself asking questions you’ve been avoiding. The Full Moon in Aries puts the spotlight on your independence are you honoring your needs, or are you losing yourself in keeping the peace? Expect clarity (and maybe some blunt truths).

October 13 – Venus enters Libra + Pluto goes direct in Aquarius
Big day. Venus moves into Libra, reminding us of the joy of connection, beauty, and harmony. Relationships get sweeter, but they also need honesty so no glossing over what’s not working. Meanwhile, Pluto shifts direct after months of retrograde (moving backwards). Think of it like this: all the shadow work you’ve been doing since May? Now you’re being asked to live it out loud. This is why journaling and tracking really matters. It let's you look back on where you were and what was going on Astrologically with you at any given time. Changes in power dynamics, career direction, or personal empowerment become more obvious.

October 21 – New Moon in Libra
Fresh start energy. Woo hoo!! This is your chance to set intentions around relationships, parterships and collaborations, and how you balance “me vs. we.” It may not be totally smooth as old wounds or trust issues could pop up but this New Moon wants you to do relationships differently this time and from a healthier place.

October 22 – Neptune returns to Pisces + Sun enters Scorpio
MARK YOUR CALENDAR! This is the turning point of the month. Neptune slides back into Pisces, revisiting themes you’ve been cycling through since 2012 spirituality, creativity, illusions, and compassion. If there’s old unfinished business, it may resurface now so you can finally close the loop. And with the Sun entering Scorpio the same day, things get real real real. Scorpio season doesn’t let you hide. It’s about honesty, endings, transformation, and reclaiming your power.

October 29 – Mercury enters Sagittarius (opposite Uranus in Gemini)
The month ends on a hot diggity spark. Mercury in Sagittarius broadens your mind and makes you hungry for big ideas, mindful expansion and exploration of beliefs you may not have ever considered. Conversations turn bold, travel or learning opportunities may pop up, and with Uranus in the mix, surprises are likely. Stay flexible becasue the best ideas or opportunities may come out of the blue.

This Month Feels Different Because...

It’s not just the intensity of Libra–Scorpio season shifts. We’ve also got multiple Grand Trines which are like smooth highways in the middle of the rocky universe. The Grand Trine in Air supports love, money, and creative breakthroughs, while the Grand Trine in Water helps with healing, emotional growth, and long-term plans. Yes, October asks us to face some hard realities, but the Universe is also giving us supportive energy to make things easier when we lean into the flow.

📓 Grab my NEW Astrology Notion Template that's more simplified, easy to use and aesthetically pleasing (now on sale)!!!

🔗 Everything is here on my website

Sarah
EMJAY Awakening & Metaphysical
Certified in Astro-Sound & Chakra Healing

Let's Connect

emjayanm.com

[@emjayanm on socials]

Join Me on :

SUBSTACK | PINTEREST | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK

Tuesday, October 07, 2025

Astrology 101: Wait… There’s More Than One Kind?!