Astrology and the Body: The Connection Between the Stars and Our Physical Health
Astrology has long been associated with studying the stars and their influence on our lives. However, what many people do not realize is that astrology can also have a direct impact on our physical health and well-being.
In this article, we will explore the connection between astrology and the body, including the historical and cultural context of this relationship, the different astrological systems that exist and their links to the body, and the role of astrology in modern medicine and healthcare.
Historical and Cultural Context
Astrology has been practised for thousands of years and has been essential to many cultures and civilizations. In ancient Greece, for example, each zodiac sign was associated with a specific body part, and understanding this connection was believed to help diagnose and treat illnesses. The Egyptians also believed that the positions of the stars and planets directly influenced the human body and its health.
In the Middle Ages, astrology was widely used in medical practice, with physicians often using astrological charts to diagnose and treat illnesses. However, as scientific medicine emerged in the 17th and 18th centuries, astrology fell out of favour as a medical tool and became associated with superstition and pseudoscience.
Despite this, astrology has continued to be an essential part of many cultures and has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Today, many people turn to astrology to gain insight into their lives and better understand themselves and others.
Astrological Systems and the Body.
Several astrological systems exist, each with a unique approach to studying the stars and their influence on our lives. One of the most well-known systems is Western astrology, which is based on the sun's position at the time of a person's birth. Each zodiac sign is associated with certain personality traits, specific body parts and health concerns.
For example:
Aries is associated with the head and face
Taurus is related to the neck and throat.
Gemini is associated with the arms and lungs.
Cancer is related to the chest and stomach.
Leo is related to the heart and back.
Virgo is associated with the intestines and nervous system.
Libra is associated with the kidneys and skin.
Scorpio is associated with the reproductive organs and excretory system.
Sagittarius is associated with the hips and thighs.
Capricorns are associated with the knees and skeletal system.
Aquarius is associated with the calves and ankles.
Pisces is associated with the feet and lymphatic system.
Another astrological system is Vedic astrology, which originated in ancient India and is based on the position of the Moon at the time of a person's birth. Vedic astrology has a complex system of chakras or energy centres in the body corresponding to different planets and signs. For example, the root chakra is associated with Mars and the sign Aries, while the crown chakra is related to Jupiter and Sagittarius.
The Chinese zodiac also has its system of body associations, with each animal sign being linked to different organs and body parts. For example, the Rat is associated with the liver, while the Ox is associated with the spleen. The Tiger is associated with the lungs, while the Rabbit is associated with the heart. The Dragon is associated with the kidneys, while the Snake is associated with the reproductive organs. The Horse is related to the stomach, while the Goat is associated with the intestines. The Monkey is related to the head, while the Rooster is associated with the bones. The Dog is associated with the ears, while the Pig is related to the nose.
Historical Texts and the Origins of Astrology
One of the oldest texts that explores the connection between astrology and the body is the Tetrabiblos by the Greek philosopher Ptolemy. This book, written in the 2nd century AD, delves into the relationship between the position of the stars and the physical characteristics of human beings.
According to Ptolemy, each zodiac sign is associated with a particular body part. For example, Aries is related to the head, face, and brain, while Taurus is associated with the neck, throat, and shoulders. Other examples include Gemini with the arms, hands, and lungs and Leo with the heart, back, and spine.
The Tetrabiblos was an influential work that influenced many later astrologers, including William Lilly, who wrote Christian Astrology in the 17th century.
Esoteric Texts and Astrology
Esoteric texts, often associated with occult and mystical practices, have also explored the connection between the body and astrology. One such text is the Kabala Denudata by Samuel Liddell MacGregor Mathers. This book, first published in the late 19th century, delves into the relationship between the seven planets and the human body. According to Mathers, each planet is associated with a particular body part, and its position in the zodiac can impact that part.
For example,
The Sun is associated with the heart and vital force, while the
The Moon is related to the brain, stomach, and female reproductive organs.
Mercury is the brain and nervous related
Venus is associated with the throat, kidneys, and lower back.
Mars is and respiratory system related to the head, adrenal glands, and muscular system
Jupiter is related to the liver, gallbladder, and thighs.
Saturn is associated with the skin, teeth, and bones.
Modern Texts and Astrology
Modern texts have also explored the connection between astrology and the body in recent years. One such book is The Astrological Body Types by Judith Hill. ( you can check a copy of this book for free if you have access to the coven Library)
Hill explores the relationship between astrological signs and physical characteristics in this book. According to Hill, each astrological sign is associated with a particular body type, and understanding this connection can help individuals maintain optimal health and well-being. For example;
Aries individuals are often athletic and muscular, with a tendency toward headaches and high blood pressure.
Taurus individuals are strong and sturdy toward weight gain and sluggish digestion.
Gemini individuals are thin and wiry, with well-being and tend to trend toward respiratory issues and nervous energy.
Cancer individuals are round and soft, with a tendency toward Digestive issues and emotional sensitivity.
Leo individuals are strong and proud, with a tendency toward back problems and heart issues.
Virgo individuals are slim and agile, with a trend toward digestive and nervous system issues.
Libra individuals are balanced and graceful, with a tendency toward skin and kidney issues.
Scorpio individuals are intense and passionate, with a trend toward reproductive and urinary problems.
Sagittarius individuals are athletic and adventurous, with a tendency toward hip and thigh issues.
Capricorn individuals are hardworking and disciplined, with a trend toward joint and bone problems.
Aquarius individuals are unique and unconventional, with a tendency toward circulation and nervous system issues.
Pisces individuals are sensitive and creative, with a trend toward the foot and lymphatic system.
Another modern book that explores the connection between astrology and the body is The Medical Astrology by Eileen Nauman. In this book, Nauman explains how the positions of the planets at the time of a person's birth can impact their health and problems throughout their life.
Summary:
Astrology has been an essential part of human culture for thousands of years and has played a significant role in understanding the connection between the stars and the body. While astrology was widely used in medical practice in the Middle Ages, it fell out of favour as scientific medicine emerged in the 17th and 18th centuries.
Despite this, astrology has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with many people turning to it to gain insight into their lives and better understand themselves and others.
Several astrological systems exist, each with a unique approach to studying the stars and their influence on our lives. These systems, such as Western astrology, Vedic astrology, and the Chinese zodiac, have specific body associations and health concerns linked to each zodiac sign or animal.
Ancient texts such as the Tetrabiblos by Ptolemy and esoteric texts such as the Kabala Denudata by Samuel Liddell MacGregor Mathers explore the connection between astrology and the body. In contrast, modern readers such as The Almanac of Astrology by Andrea Mallis and The Astrological Body Types by Judith Hill continue to shed light on the topic.
While astrology may not replace scientific medicine, it can be valuable for gaining insight into one's health and well-being. By understanding the connection between the stars and the body, we can better understand ourselves and work towards improving our physical health and mental well-being.
Sources:
Hill, Judith. The Astrological Body Types: Face, Form, and Expression. Crossing Press, 1991.
Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3oUKBWY
Lilly, William. Christian Astrology. Ascella Publications, 2004.
Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Hpkyxs
Mathers, Samuel Liddell MacGregor. Kabala Denudata. 1887.
Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/426ijqM
Parker, Derek, and Julia Parker. The New Compleat Astrologer. Sterling, 1990.
Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/44gLRE8
Ptolemy. Tetrabiblos. Loeb Classical Library, 2001.
Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VqfA9t
The Only Astrology Book You'll Ever Need by Joanna Martine Woolfolk
Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/426T2wC
The Secret Language of Birthdays by Gary Goldschneider and Joost Elffers
Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3oSQl3B
Planets in Therapy: Predictive Technique and the Art of Counseling by Greg Bogart
Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3oWf8nr
Disclaimer: It is important to note that astrology should not be used as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. While astrology can provide insight into personality traits and potential health concerns, it is not a scientifically proven diagnosis or treatment method. If you have any concerns about your health, it is vital to seek the advice of a qualified medical professional.
