strology has traditionally been a method of forecasting the future, and in fact there are many astrologers still practicing today who take a fatalistic approach to the birthchart (i.e., Mars is square Uranus, you will have an accident). This approach assumes that we do not control our own destiny, but it is in fact mapped out for us and we are just motorists in a vehicle that is programmed for a certain destination. The more humanistic approach to astrology originated in the late 1960s and has continued to develop into a sophisticated psychological tool. This approach recognizes that although certain aspects of our physical being and personality are predestined, we are given the free will to make choices which will affect the outcomes of the crossroads of our life.

   "Transits and progressions" are terms for the study of the angles made by current planetary placements to the birthchart ("transits") and the evolving birthchart as it changes over time "progressions" to determine the cycles and growth that the individual is likely to experience in a given period. A forecasting reading using transits and progressions is typically done about once a year to evaluate these upcoming planetary influences. In this way periods of crisis can be managed by determining the influences that are operating and how best to navigate the rough waters.

   See article: Transformation through Crisis