A Role for Astrology in Recovery?

Recovery from addiction may seem like a medical or psychological issue, but astrology has a role to play in the process.

Writing in the June 2015 issue of Recovery Today magazine on holistic addiction treatment, astrologer Linda Furiate says recovery typically involves a spiritual component. It is well documented that the first step in working through our addictions is to surrender to a higher power greater than our own, she says.

“Addiction has been described as a spiritual disease where one may feel a disconnection to the world and life may express itself as meaningless. Recognition of the interconnectedness of body, mind, and soul leads to a sense of wholeness,” she explains.

Furiate says astrology can help people struggling with addictions achieve a greater sense of wholeness. While most people know their sun signs (as in “I’m a Gemini”), Furiate says that in her work as an astrologer dealing with addictions she focuses on the moon and the planet Mercury.

The moon is associated with a person’s emotional state and Mercury with the mind. These two heavenly bodies are important to gaining a sense of mindfulness, which Furiate sees as key to a holistic approach to addiction.

“Mindfulness opens up the possibility of surrendering and attuning to benefits of holistic healing,” she explains.

According to Furiate, the four astrological elements (fire, earth, air, and water) are keys to astrology. And the position of the moon and Mercury in these elements is very telling. For example, while fire signs expand and seek pleasure, earth wants to be safe and secure. Air is a mental energy that likes to intellectualize, while water reflects, probes, and dissolves.

“Each element has an archetypal pattern that conditions the mental and emotional state. Using astrology helps in guiding a client towards mindfulness, which is the ultimate goal in achieving sobriety,” she said.