An astrological guide to wellness

 

“He who does not understand astrology is not a doctor but a fool.”
~ Hippocrates

Although horoscopes are quite popular with the masses in America, only a fraction sincerely understand astrology and the insight a person can gain from studying the celestial bodies.

Astrology is the observation of the planets and the patterns of energy they create at any given moment. Modern astrology emerged out of an ancient awareness that we're both part of these energies, and influenced by them. While not everyone agrees that these energies exist, this kind of skywatching has gone on since time began (astrology.about.com).

In other words, astrology is an interpretation of how the universe around us affects our lives. As I learned from the famed author and spiritual teacher, Eckhart Tolle, we’re all just bundles of the same energy; hence, we are all one.

The whole comprises all that exists. It is the world or the cosmos. But all things in existence, from microbes to human beings to galaxies, are not really separate things or entities, but form part of a web of interconnected multidimensional processes. (Eckhart Tolle “A New Earth”)

It makes so much sense. How could the universe and its heavenly bodies not influence our life on this planet?

For those who heed astrology and their personal wellness, I have a new book recommendation. It is “Planetary Apothecary: an astrological approach to health and wellness” by Stephanie Gailing, an astrologer, nutritionist, writer and Seattle-ite. From healthy eating tips to yoga poses, the reader is guided through a personal health profile and areas of focus for each zodiac sign.

After eagerly studying the pages of my sun, moon and ascendant signs, I found the profiles to be spot-on and the advice to be invaluable. By way of illustration, my sun is in Gemini. According to Planetary Apothecary, the road to wellness is an intellectual challenge that fascinates a Gemini. Sounds like a Wellness Examiner, no?

Other recommendations I have adopted include dolphin pose as part of my personal yoga practice and a daily B-complex vitamin. One of the suggested relaxation practices is journaling, also a favorite way of mine to wind down. The author even endorses my preferred breakfast as a great way for a Gemini to start the day - oatmeal. (Interestingly enough, I recently wrote an Examiner article regarding the benefits of oats, "Oatmeal: food for the heart and soul.")

Intrigued by medical astrology? Visit planetaryapothecary.com to read your monthly wellness horoscope or schedule a private astrological wellness consultation with Stephanie.

Thanks to the miracle that is web 2.0 and internet networking, I had the opportunity to meet the author for tea. To Stephanie - thank you for guidance on the continuous quest for wellness!