A birth chart maps the planets in the solar system at the exact moment of a person's birth. This is depicted in a circular diagram divided into 12 pie-shaped sections, or houses as they're called in astrology. The houses are a developmental path, from the personal to the social to the cosmic. Each house has a major theme and is "ruled" by the energies of a specific planet.
Astrology birth charts are as individual and unique as a fingerprint. In fact, the specific planetary configuration of a birth chart is repeated only once every 25,000 years! So the only people who share the same birth chart are people born around the same time on the same day and year in the same place.
A birth astrology chart is chockfull of valuable insights, beyond one's zodiac sign (also known as sun sign or star sign). Most people know their sun sign (Aries, Gemini, Scorpio, etc.). But they don't usually know about the many other planetary influences that contribute significantly to who they are.
What's a Birth Chart Good For?
The biggest benefit is increased awareness. Descriptive information in astrology charts allow people to get clearer about themselves and their affect on others (and others' affect on them!). This awareness and understanding can lead to more joy, contentment, and success in life.
Respected astrologer Jeanne Avery, in her book The Rising Sign: Your Astrological Mask, uses the analogy of a road map to explain the importance of an astrological chart:
"A road map cannot drive a car; it can only indicate the road conditions. After studying that road map, an individual may decide to take a shortcut, scenic route, or the superhighway. When a person consults an astrological chart, he may become aware of his natural trends, natural energy cycles, and natural reactions. It's up to him to make choices, find mental antidotes, and learn to work with his natural timing and energy....The chart can give him permission to follow his inclinations and natural impulses,... help him uncover his perhaps unrealized potential,... and pinpoint in a most profound manner the reasons for the blocking of energy and abilities -- the fears and insecurities that prevent him from taking the chances necessary for his success."
Baby Birth Chart
A baby birth chart has the same information as an adult astrology birth chart. But the report is written in plain language specifically for parents and primary caretakers. It explains how a young child will appear to others, how they'll think, communicate, and relate, and what their particular strengths, challenges, and limitations will be.
Knowing a child's birth chart information can help:
- parents start building a foundation for the child's well-being from the moment he or she arrives in the family.
- other relatives, siblings, and friends value what the child has to offer.
- the child learn how to appreciate himself or herself as he or she grows.
