# Discover the Five Key Asteroids to Enhance Your Astrology Practice
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Chapter 1: The Role of Asteroids in Astrology
When I embarked on my journey into astrology, my instructor advised us to set aside the modern outer planets during our first year. By doing so, we relied solely on the classical seven planets, which pushed us to derive similar interpretations without the assistance of Uranus for "innovation," Neptune for "religion," or Pluto for "transformation."
Asteroids were not part of this learning curve, largely because the ancient Hellenistic astrologers I studied operated within a more limited solar system than the vast cosmos we recognize today, filled with planets, dwarf planets, and asteroids.
While my weekly forecasts might suggest that I occasionally incorporate asteroids into my practice, they do not dominate my consultations, which primarily focus on the ten main planets. Fixed stars only come into play when significant conjunctions arise. However, I find that transiting asteroids add a layer of enchantment and distinctiveness to my natal chart, representing the intricate and often overlooked details of our personalities and lives.
I believe asteroids encapsulate the intimate facets of our astrological charts—the secrets we guard and the hidden aspects of our existence. Last year, I delved into the works of the Venerable Bede, an eighth-century scholar whose contributions to Medieval Europe are invaluable. While translating his philosophical texts, I noted the coinciding transit of his namesake asteroid through my third house, where my natal Jupiter resides.
This alignment highlighted themes of learning, language, and philosophy as the asteroid traversed my chart. Currently, the transiting asteroid Daniel is moving through my sixth house, aligning with my exploration of the biography of Daniel of Morley, who has ties to the history of astronomy. At the same time, the retrograde asteroid Astronomia approaches an opposition with my natal position, coinciding with transformative changes in my astrological practice that integrate more astronomical elements.
What Are Asteroids?
Initially, I may have been a bit overconfident in dismissing asteroids, adhering too strictly to ancient traditions. While this approach benefited my early studies, it limited my understanding of the cosmos, resembling the rigidity of my natal Mercury in a fixed sign, which often resisted the magic and mystery inherent in the universe.
Asteroids can be viewed as remnants from cosmic creation. According to NASA, there are nearly 1.3 million asteroids floating in space, providing a context for the countless celestial objects present at our births. Most of these asteroids are ancient remnants orbiting the Sun between Mars and Jupiter. While Vesta is the largest among them, the sizes and significations of these celestial bodies vary widely.
Asteroids and Astrology
Any discussion of asteroids in astrology would be incomplete without acknowledging Demetra George, the original Asteroid Goddess. Her 1986 work, Asteroid Goddesses, co-written with Douglas Bloch, revived the pantheon of powerful female deities recognized in the 19th century. This shift reflected the evolving roles of women in society, moving beyond traditional confines represented by Venus and the Moon.
The exploration of asteroid goddesses laid the groundwork for a reclaiming of the divine feminine in astrology. Today, astrological software includes a multitude of asteroids beyond the initial four highlighted by George and Bloch. There are asteroids named after people, places, and even ideas, each offering unique insights.
For instance, asteroid 55555, known as "DNA," sits in opposition to the natal Midheaven of James D. Watson, a controversial figure in molecular biology. King Charles III’s natal Saturn also squares asteroid 78, "Diana," in his fifth house.
While many asteroids exist, personal connections to specific names may yield more meaningful interpretations. However, some asteroids warrant closer attention for their interpretive value. Here are five that you might explore further:
- Hygeia (10)
Hygeia, while debated as an asteroid, significantly influences health and hygiene matters, making her relevant in transits to the sixth house and ascendant. With a diameter exceeding 400 kilometers, Hygeia orbits the Sun in just over five years. Its current position in Aquarius could signal a time to focus on health regimens and potential issues related to blood circulation.
- Sisyphus (1866)
I fondly recall a Red Bull commercial where Sisyphus finally rolls his boulder uphill, which diverges from the original myth. At just seven kilometers in diameter, Sisyphus’s orbital cycle is about 2.6 years. The mythological tale of hubris highlights the challenges we may face when navigating the houses this asteroid occupies, often necessitating a fresh start on significant projects.
- Pan (4450)
Pan, a small asteroid at 1.1 kilometers in diameter, takes nearly two years to complete its orbit. In mythology, he embodies the wild and untamed aspects of our psyche, which can provoke intense feelings, especially when transiting significant points in your chart. Reflecting on Pan's influence can reveal patterns in impulsiveness and the desire for change.
- Excalibur (9499)
I’m currently monitoring Excalibur’s transit through my sixth house, hoping for breakthroughs in areas of my life that feel stagnant. This asteroid, linked to King Arthur's legendary sword, takes around five years to transit and signifies the pursuit of one's destiny and overcoming obstacles that hinder personal empowerment.
- Freya (76)
Astrology often overlooks Norse mythology in favor of Greco-Roman narratives. Freya, associated with fertility and magic, resonates with my natal Midheaven. As she moves through my third house, I find it an inspiring time for communication and creative expression, providing fertile ground for my passions.
Do any of these asteroids spark your interest? Are there others you engage with? Feel free to share your thoughts and insights!
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DISCLAIMER: All astrological forecasts are for ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY. Any decisions made based on this or any other astrological blog post are solely your responsibility. The creator of this blog is not liable for any outcomes. For legal matters, consult a lawyer; for medical concerns, seek advice from a physician. This content does not constitute professional advice. Again, this forecast is for ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY!