Explanations about this ancient art and science may vary, but I feel the Hermetic maxim “as above, so below” perhaps sums it up best.
When you drew your first breath and came into physical form, your vibration, or personal blueprint, also came into being. That vibration is mapped out by the planetary placements in your natal (birth) astrological chart. Such placements describe your personality, strengths and weaknesses, challenges, life purpose and even your physical qualities. Describing and interpreting that map or blueprint is the work of astrology.
Yes, it may sound a bit “out there”, but in fact there is a lot of practical, down-to-earth information about living your life in an optimum way that can be gained through an understanding of your personal astrological makeup. Planetary energies ebb and flow in a person’s life, much like the Moon’s influence on the Earth’s tides. Astrology can assist you in knowing when it is best to go with that flow for maximum gain or conversely, when to retreat and wait for a more auspicious time to take action.