In recent years, there has been a notable surge in the popularity of astrology, human design, and similar self knowledge systems. Many individuals turn to these frameworks as a means to understand themselves, their relationships, and their life experiences. While these systems can offer insights and guidance, it is crucial to acknowledge that some people may also rely on them as a way to control and mitigate their unresolved trauma. Systems of self knowledge and embodiment are extremely complex and individuals formally study for years and decades to be able to 1) understand their own charts and 2) to then expertly guide others to understand theirs. With social media, there is a way that watered down understandings have become fully accepted and this can be a disservice to those who are dealing with unresolved trauma. And with an uptick in social media accounts where folx claim with such confidence that they have a strong handle on a system, it’s easy for people working through trauma to believe them.

There are many reasons behind this phenomenon and shedding light on how astrology and human design can provide a sense of stability and meaning for those grappling with traumatic experiences is key to understanding both the shadow and light aspects of these routes of self discovery and depth of knowledge.

1. Seeking Comfort and Certainty: When individuals face unresolved trauma, they often experience feelings of vulnerability, confusion, and a lack of control. Astrology and human design offer a structured belief system that provides comfort and certainty. By attributing their experiences and personality traits to cosmic or even predetermined forces (depending on the school of thought), individuals may find solace in the idea that their challenges have a higher purpose or that their destiny is predetermined.
2. Finding a Sense of Identity: Traumatic experiences can leave individuals feeling fragmented and disconnected from their sense of self. Astrology and human design provide a framework for understanding oneself and others. These systems offer descriptions and explanations that individuals can relate to, helping them piece together their identity and regain a sense of coherence. By identifying with specific astrological signs or human design types, individuals can find a sense of belonging and validation.
3. Externalizing Responsibility: Unresolved trauma often carries feelings of guilt, shame, and self–blame. Astrology and human design offer an opportunity to externalize responsibility by attributing personal challenges and behaviors to external forces. This externalization can provide temporary relief from self-criticism and offer a way to understand trauma through a different lens, thus mitigating feelings of guilt and shame.
4. Creating a Narrative of Healing: Trauma can disrupt an individual’s life story, making it difficult to find meaning or purpose. Astrology and human design present a narrative framework that weaves together past experiences, present circumstances, and future possibilities. By incorporating these belief systems into their healing journey, individuals can create a cohesive narrative of their lives, which can serve as a catalyst for growth, transformation, and resolution of trauma.
5. Seeking Community and Support: The popularity of astrology and human design has resulted in the formation of vibrant online communities and social networks. These communities provide spaces for individuals to share their experiences, seek advice, and connect with others who may have similar backgrounds or struggles. In these supportive environments, individuals can find validation, understanding, and a sense of belonging, which can be instrumental in the healing process.

While astrology, human design, and similar belief systems can provide comfort, structure, and a sense of belonging, it is essential to approach them with a critical mindset, and avoid bypassing. It is crucial to recognize that they are not substitutes for professional therapeutic interventions when dealing with unresolved trauma. It is advisable to complement these belief systems with evidence-based practices and seek the guidance of mental health professionals, equipped to intervene on a somatic level as well as mental, to address and heal from deep-rooted traumas effectively. By acknowledging the underlying motivations behind our attraction to these systems, we can integrate them into our lives in a healthier and more balanced way.

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