Multimodal Astrology

Multimodal Astrology is an approach grounded in classical Western astrology and polymodal psychology. The core idea is that a person is polymodal—that is, different parts of the psyche contain different subconscious programs, each with its own set of tasks, values, ideals, and level of development. Therefore, a natal chart must be interpreted in different ways depending on the facet of personality and the situation under consideration.

In classical Western astrology this approach is represented by the diversity of branches of astrological knowledge. Business astrology examines the natal chart from the perspective of business processes, mundane astrology—from the perspective of global geopolitical processes, synastric—from the perspective of relationships, etc.

Classical astrology also well represents the principle of multidimensionality: to forecast the future several predictive systems are used simultaneously, and a probable event occurs at the intersection of the analyses of these systems. In natal astrology, a conclusion is never drawn on the basis of a single factor; a multitude of them is always taken into account.

Multimodal astrology systematizes these principles and places astrology in a holistic, integral context of being. This context is based on the multimodality of our world—that is, the existence of an infinite number of all kinds of manifestations of cosmic consciousness, and therefore a variety of possible points of view and relative truths. For an individual person, this means the possibility of a radical expansion of consciousness and a subtle toolkit for solving their life problems (or, as we say at our school—“quests”).

Foundation

Multimodal astrology was born at the junction of eras and combines the secret esoteric traditions of the past with the achievements of modern science and psychology. Western astrology, essentially being an integral framework, lies at the heart of this union.

From psychology we have taken the concepts of the archetype, modality, subpersonality, the three-level model of the psyche, the sacred wound. From mystical traditions: the egregore as the spirit of the collective, microcosm and macrocosm, subtle bodies, field, vibrational energies, etc. Some unique concepts, such as higher archetypes, were developed by the Russian astrologer, mystic, and polymodal psychologist—Avessalom Podvodny.

Thus, one of the main advantages of multimodal astrology is that it not only provides an accurate diagnosis of a situation, but also practical methods for its resolution: working through problematic qualities, self-development, and resolving a life situation. Following the principles of Rudhyar’s Humanistic Astrology, multimodal astrology provides ample space for the evolutionary development of the personality and for working through the natal chart.

Multimodal Analysis

The possibilities for applying multimodal astrology are diverse. But one of the key factors is analyzing a situation from several sides. The idea is that a problematic life situation is rarely caused by a single factor. Multilevel analysis helps to reveal the connection among these factors and to select an appropriate solution.

I distinguish six main points of view, but the analysis is not limited to them. These are: the sacred level of the psyche or Higher Self; the basic character of fate (primarily symbolized by the houses and their rulers); personality traits and a person’s default modalities; the inner world—attitudes, programs, values, and subpersonalities; the influence of the external world—the egregores of collectives and social archetypes; and the space of time—that is, the development of the situation.

Multimodal analysis includes interpretation from the point of view of all these perspectives, and thus it provides a holistic, all-encompassing analysis.

Practical Guides