Where you should live based on your birth chart

What to know about astrocartography.

Whether you’re a believer or not, people have been looking to the stars and planets for centuries for guidance. Often, it’s less about using astrology as a literal instruction book and more as a jumping-off point for introspection. Whether it’s a monthly horoscope or major planetary cycles, there are different ways to engage with the practice.

Interested to hear how others navigate the world? Head to our Life section.

A branch of astrology and developed by Jim Lewis in the 1970s, astrocartography explores the unique pull we can feel towards certain places. By mapping planetary positions across the world, astrologers believe it can help you explore the places where you might feel most at home, energised or inspired. Whether you’re planning your next trip or considering somewhere new to live, here’s what you need to know.

@inthebackofthekar astrocartography it is #locationastrology #astrocartography #astrology #manifestation ♬ original sound – Mytoru

What exactly is astrocartography?

Astrocartography takes your birth chart and overlays it onto a map of the Earth to reveal how certain locations can activate your personal planets. The term itself can be broken down: ‘astro’ relates to the stars, and ‘cartography’ refers to maps. Together, it can be understood as a study of ‘star maps’.

In short, it pinpoints the places in the world that might resonate with, challenge, enhance or bring different versions of you to the surface. Ultimately, it’s up to you how to use it, whether that’s for your next holiday destination or helping decide which city you want to live in.

What you’ll need

Before starting, you’ll need to know your exact birth time (to the minute) and location for an accurate reading. If your parents can’t quite remember, you may be able to find it on your birth certificate.

@retro.adeit’s important to take all factors into account♬ The righteous wrath of an honorable man – Colin Stetson

How to find your astrocartography sweet spot

You can uncover your reading by heading online here, or by booking a session with a practising astrocartographer.

If you opt for the former, you’ll notice several coloured lines, each representing different planets once you’ve entered in your information. You can click on these to learn more about your planetary lines and what energy they’ll bring (you’ll also need to zoom in on the map to get a better gauge of the location). For example, Saturn often represents discipline and ambition – following these lines could reveal that in Tokyo you might find an exciting career opportunity.

Sun: The Sun line is most closely linked to confidence, vitality and happiness. Visiting or living in cities along this line can help you feel more like yourself.

Moon: Often linked to emotion, a sense of family and belonging, being near this line can enhance these feelings, or could be a location you go to for solitude, nesting or to start a family.

Mars: Mars lines are associated with heightened energy, and living on or travelling to this line can bring out a riskier, bolder and more impatient side of yourself.

Mercury: This line is perfect for sharpened mental clarity, communication and curiosity. Visiting places along this line might resonate if you’re writing a book or learning a new language.

Venus: Venus is often linked to romance, pleasure and beauty, making it a sweet spot to meet someone or to travel with a partner.

Saturn: Saturn lines represent discipline and are best to go to if you need structure. Though it can feel challenging, it may be a rewarding spot when it comes to career building, learning a craft or putting down roots.

Jupiter: In astrocartography, Jupiter lines are traditionally associated with expansion, opportunity and good fortune (though watch out for excess and overindulgence in these locations).

Uranus: Locations along this line can feel disruptive – in a good and bad way. The energy is rebellious and may bring out an electrifying, boundary-pushing side of yourself.

Neptune: Neptune lines are associated with dreaminess, imagination, and escapism, making it perfect for tapping into your artful side but unhelpful if you need structure.

Pluto: Travelling or moving to a destination along this line is perfect if you’re after an all-encompassing transformation, rebirth or a wholly new outlook on life.

For more on astrocartography and travel, head here.