Michael R. Svehla, MA
A really fantastic astrologer I follow helped me to have an epiphany about astrology. Astrology is most certainly a science. The logic, intuition, and symbolism of astrology is conveniently observed via the horoscope, which is simply a model of the heavens. Not only do we know where the planets, points, and objects in the solar system reside in the current moment, but we also might observe exactly where they were in the past, and perhaps most importantly, where they will be in the future. I never thanked this person and I would guess he would say he doesn't need anyone to say it. As I move forward myself, I have a convenient way to conceptualize the interactions of the planetary energies in addition to the charts, and a wondrous new understanding of them.
What is the central focus of your practice?
My salient interest is in synthesis. What is the structure of an astrological chart? What naturally follows is determining how and when that structure manifests. Give me your birth data, and I will give you a down to earth explanation of how the heavens interact with your life. My readings are for people who want more than just a list of their planetary placements. Dates and themes create a useful roadmap for navigating this system we all participate in.
Why should I purchase an astrology reading?
Right away, we need to differentiate among the myriad of astrologers and the wide variety of services they offer. Some people want to be entertained, some want guidance, and some people are forming and fortifying their belief systems, inter alia. Essentially, astrology generally helps to explain the "why" of our existence and how to not only cope with life, but prosper. A good reading should contribute to doing that.
Why should you be the astrologer who reads my charts?
I give insight about your natal promise and help to uncover a realization of your capabilities in life. How do the pieces of your chart fit together? Seeing the entire chart is my specialty. Most of all, I am concerned with prediction. If you have goals and aspirations, time those to favorable planetary motions. While it's not a magical solution to every challenge in life, astrological timing gives valuable advantages. I also regularly use more esoteric techniques, such as with the hypothetical Transneptunians. Another benefit, I customize what I use astrologically, for querents' inquiries. For example, asteroids Vesta and Midas are an effective one-two punch in certain scenarios.
What qualifies you to be an astrologer?
I earned a Master of Arts degree from The University of Iowa/Economics major. I own dozens of astrology books, went through 1500 minireadings, have spent a great many hours studying astrology, and my unique experience of life, combined with my own understanding and use of astrology, has helped many clients over the years. You may read my book (buy on amazon/download for free on Smashwords) for a better feel of how I practice astrology.
Are you psychic? I am not psychic. Occasionally, people who have frequented psychics want a reading from me. An astrology forecast is more about choosing actions in your life to navigate future trends, not a yes or no answer about whether or not something will happen. Also, I only practice astrology. I've seen many practitioners who combine astrology and a second New Age practice, and I do not.
What do you do besides astrology?
In addition to working a nine to five office job in the corporate world, I frequent my gym six days a week and bodybuild. It (bodybuilding) is just a hobby, but nonetheless I like the challenge of it.
