There are many misconceptions regarding astrology. For instance, the horoscopes listed in the daily newspapers are only based on the sign position of the Sun, whereas full natal astrology takes many more things into account. The application of astrology to people can be approached as a study of individuality, from either a psychological perspective or on a predictive, event-based level. Astrology is a tool to gain objective awareness of your own patterns of behavior. We all have tendencies that lead to inappropriate actions and feelings of isolation and unhappiness. The trick is to discover our own "glitches" and empower ourselves to avoid them. With this objective knowledge we can choose to make adjustments that result in our life operating more smoothly. Astrology itself is not "spiritual," yet it can be an effective tool for opening the way to accessing our spirituality. By understanding our psychological wiring (as objectively pictured in the astrology chart) we can accept and work with ourselves with more understanding and detachment. This calms the turmoil of the inner personality and allows our innate spiritual nature to emerge. And by understanding the psychological wiring of others through their astrological charts, we can more easily accept their unique differences without taking it so personally; we can learn to enjoy the variety rather than seeking to change others into an extension of ourselves. So although astrology itself is not spiritual, it can lead to important spiritual experiences, such as unconditional loving acceptance of ourselves and others. Note: Astrology 101 lessons and additional information can be found in the Athenaeum.