If you've read your newspaper horoscope, you probably think you've got an idea of what astrology is about. It's time to think again. The newspaper horoscope addresses one small portion of your immensely complicated natal chart, and each prediction is targeted to roughly one-twelfth of the world's population. The same goes for the assorted books and pamphlets available for each of the Sun signs. Clearly, however, every Gemini is not the same as every other Gemini; not all Virgos are energetic and critical, and not all Pisceans are sweet, passive martyrs. How then can anyone claim that astrology works?

The answer lies in a closer look at the central feature of personal astrology: the natal chart. Your natal/birth chart examines the condition surrounding the event - that is, you - that began at the precise place and time of your birth. It addresses the multiple factors that make you the unique individual you are, identifying essential aspects of your personality with much greater detail than your Sun sign alone could ever achieve. Your strengths and weaknesses, your challenges and opportunities, major themes of your life and the relationships that come into it are found in the natal chart; key events and pivotal periods of development can be clarified by studying the progression of the chart and the influences shown by planetary transits.

Astrology offers you insight into your past and present as well as the opportunity to prepare for the future. If you're one of the many seeking a greater understanding of yourself and your experiences, try a professional astrology reading today.