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Astrology Basics: A Beginner's Guide to Your Birth Chart

New to astrology? Start here.

Astrology Basics: A Beginner's Guide to Your Birth Chart

If you've never had an astrology reading before, the terminology can feel like a lot. Here's the short version.

Your birth chart

A birth chart is a snapshot of where the planets were at your exact date, time, and place of birth. It's the starting point for every reading - which is why astrologers always ask for accurate birth details.

Houses, signs, and planets

The chart is divided into 12 houses, each representing an area of life (career, relationships, health, and so on). Each planet sits in a sign and a house, and it's the combination of the three that astrologers interpret - not any one factor alone.

Dashas: planetary periods

Vedic astrology also tracks "dashas" - extended periods ruled by a particular planet - which is how astrologers estimate timing for events, rather than just describing your personality.

Different systems

AstroNira astrologers work across systems including Vedic, Tarot, KP, Numerology, Palmistry, and Prashna - each with its own approach, so it's worth trying the one that resonates with you.

Getting started

The easiest way to understand your own chart is to talk to an astrologer directly - book a call or chat on AstroNira and ask questions as you go.