Why Are People So Into Astrology Right Now?

https://www.discovermagazine.com/mind/why-are-people-so-into-astrology-all-of-a-sudden

Around for thousands of years, people have looked to the stars and planets for guidance. While it’s no longer regarded as a scholarly tradition, many individuals continue to study the celestial bodies and their influence on our lives. Over the past few decades, the general interest in astrology has grown steadily, and that made it popular today. Astrology is now at boom all over the internet, and you can easily come across zodiac-themed listicles or horoscope social media accounts. 

From knowing romantic compatibility to career growth, people use different astrology-based smartphone applications for everything. If you don't know, horoscopes and birth charts are only a small part of astrology. However, people still wonder what the stars and the planets have to offer. All these questions and dilemma raises one question that why people are so into astrology these days. According to experts, there might be some factors that allure people towards it such as gaining a better understanding of themselves or coping up with stress. 

Here we have gathered some factors that might explain why people are so into astrology these days:

1) Stress and Uncertainty

Nobody wants to lead chaotic and uncontrollable life as it causes stress as well as uncertainty. In stressful times, astrology might bring a sense of certainty, and that is how people get interested in astrology. According to 2016 and 2017 studies, stress originates from our uncertainty about outcomes, and uncertainty about a negative outcome can be really stressful. Since the human brain is hard-wired to seek certainty, some people have the tendency to interpret adverse life events. 

At that time, astrology provides meaningful explanations of confusing situations and increases an individual’s sense of control over them. It can also provide reassurance about the future by reducing their feelings of distress. A number of studies have shown that people turn to astrology while they are facing stress or experiencing any personal crisis. If enthusiasts in astrology can make connections to each other, they can also forge communities that are sources of social support in difficult times.

2) Self-Discovery

Even though few people consider astrology as limiting, many are drawn to it because it can help them gain more clarity about their lives. Perhaps that is why people who endorse astrological beliefs are experiencing a lower self-awareness. Studies show that astrology can greatly influence a person’s self-concept because the ruminative nature of astrology encourages self-reflection. It may also be a consequence of the Barnum Effect. Branum Effect is a phenomenon where people think that any generalized sentence belongs to them particularly. However, self-aware people are more likely to reflect on the choices they make. Regardless, astrology may still be beneficial for people to lead a stress-free life.

3) Increased Exposure

The popularity of astrology today can be because of its increased presence in pop culture. From Beyonce to Lady Gaga, we have seen many celebrities publicly endorsing their beliefs on astrology. Moreover, reading and sharing information about astrology also increase its exposure worldwide. In astrology also, what’s beneficial for some people might not be the same for others. That is why assessing the reasons why people engage in astrology has become more important than ever because of its sudden rise in popularity.