Human Design vs Astrology: A Deep Dive

Beyond the Stars: Exploring Human Design (Astrology Guide Coming Soon)

 

Human Design is an incredibly specific way to learn more about your personality, emotions and how you interact with the world and those in it. Knowing your aura type, strategy and authority will give you the tools to make aligned decisions and tap into your intuition.

The Human Design system is based on your exact time, date, and place of birth and it provides your energetic blueprint. It is essentially a mix of Astrology, the Chakra System, Kabbalah, I'Ching, and Quantum mechanics, all in one.

Human Design was developed quite recently after founder Ra Uru Hu received an incredibly detailed intuitive download in 1987. He taught this to many people before his death in order to help humanity illuminate the parts of themselves, and others, they did not understand and to prepare people for a collective shift that would begin in 2020 (and gee, did that happen or what?!).

In your unique chart, the best place to start is with your aura type, strategy and authority. 

 

Aura

There are 5 aura or human design types:

• Generator

• Manifesting Generator (sometimes you’ll see this in the same category as Generator’s)

• Projector

• Manifestor

• Reflector

 

Strategy

Strategy refers to how you engage with the world around you and channel your energy.

There are 4 strategy types:

• To respond

• Wait for the invitation

• To inform

• Wait the lunar cycle

 

Authority

Authority is about how your body guides you to determine whether a decision is right for you. 

There are 7 authority types:

• Sacral

• Emotional

• Environmental (Mental)

• Self-projected

• Ego

• Lunar

• Splenic

 

Now that you’re familiar with the aura, strategy and authority types, let’s break them down!

 

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Generator

 

Aura

Generators have a warm and inviting aura that magnetises others towards them. They are the reliable engines of society that are run by the things in life that light them up. Generators thrive when they have the space to work steadily, and consistently and feed their inner fire. Slow and steady wins the race! It’s important for them to prioritise what makes them feel alive to keep this energy flowing.

A Generator’s signature theme/feeling is satisfaction. This is felt when they’re on the right path. On the other hand, a Generator’s not-self theme is frustration. This is felt when their strategy and authority aren’t being utilised.

 

Strategy

A Generator’s strategy is “to respond”. This speaks to the act of responding to life and all that it offers. Subconsciously or consciously responding to life all day, every day, from the food eaten to the clothes worn. The response is a feeling in the body, a visceral yes or no. A yes might come through as a laugh, a clap of the hands, eyes widening, a positive vocal exclamation or a feeling of light and expansion. A no might be expressed as a shudder, a negative vocal exclamation, or the feeling of contraction. 

 

Authority

A Generator can have one of two different types of authority:

• Sacral 

• Emotional

 

Sacral

Sacral authority is a visceral feeling in the body (potentially in the lower belly [sacral chakra] region) that offers guidance when making decisions. It is the process of moving away from the mind and into the body. The advice here is “trust your gut”! If their body says yes or no, it is to be listened to. It will most likely be an instantaneous knowing or feeling that something is right or wrong for them. A shrinking feeling when it’s a no, and an expansive feeling when it is a yes.

 

Emotional

People with emotional authority are deeply connected to their emotional and nervous systems, and their process often involves riding out the emotional wave before arriving at clarity. Emotions, both highs and lows, can arise intensely and persist for minutes, hours, or even days. This emotional wave can be incredibly powerful, shaping not only how they feel but how they express their emotions. Think of how artists like Adele move people with raw emotion in their music—her songs may make people feel deeply, sometimes even bringing them to tears. In much the same way, people with this emotional approach can have a profound impact on those around them, drawing others in with their warmth and emotional depth.

When it comes to making decisions, it's important for them to wait for a sense of calm before choosing a course of action. Emotional clarity often takes time to emerge, so it's essential to resist making choices during moments of intense emotional highs or lows. The advice here is to "sleep on it," because what might feel like a good idea today could turn out to be not so great after a little time to reflect. Truth, for these individuals, tends to reveal itself gradually, and patience is key. There's no need to rush. If others are waiting on them for a decision, the people around them will often grow more attracted to their energy the longer they wait for a response. Practices like Restorative/Yin Yoga or meditation can be particularly helpful for calming emotional fluctuations and creating the space needed for thoughtful decision-making. Ultimately, waiting for clarity allows them to live in harmony with their inner truth, even if that truth is not 100% clear right away.

 

 

Manifesting Generator

 

Aura

Manifesting Generators (MGs) are multi-passionate individuals fueled by an inner fire that is driven by the things that excite and inspire them. Their core mantra is simple: “Do the things that light you up.” As a subtype of Generators, MGs share the energy of their pure Generator counterparts, but with a twist. While pure Generators tend to have a steady, reliable source of energy for the things they love, MGs experience bursts of superhuman energy that allow them to accomplish massive amounts in short spans. They can juggle multiple projects at once, moving at an accelerated pace until they hit a natural lull, where they retreat and slow down until the next wave of inspiration hits.

This fluctuation in energy can sometimes cause MGs to feel like they are letting themselves or others down, especially when they change their minds or feel inconsistent in their commitments. However, it’s important for them to remember that it’s perfectly okay to change direction. By following their inner response and focusing on what truly lights them up, Manifesting Generators create an aura that is warm, inviting, and magnetic. People are naturally drawn to their energy, and when MGs are aligned with their passions, they inspire and uplift others simply by being true to themselves.

An MG’s signature theme/feeling is satisfaction. This is felt when they’re on the right path. On the other hand, an MG’s not-self theme is frustration. This is felt when their strategy and authority aren’t being utilised.

 

Strategy: To Respond

A Generator’s strategy is “to respond”. This speaks to the act of responding to life and all that it offers. Subconsciously or consciously responding to life all day, every day, from the food eaten to the clothes worn. The response is a feeling in the body, a visceral yes or no. A yes might come through as a laugh, a clap of the hands, eyes widening, a positive vocal exclamation or a feeling of light and expansion. A no might be expressed as a shudder, a negative vocal exclamation, or the feeling of contraction. 

 

Authority

An MG can have one of two different types of authority:

• Sacral 

• Emotional

 

Sacral

Sacral authority is a visceral feeling in the body (potentially in the lower belly [sacral chakra] region) that offers guidance when making decisions. It is the process of moving away from the mind and into the body. The advice here is “trust your gut”! If their body says yes or no, it is to be listened to. It will most likely be an instantaneous knowing or feeling that something is right or wrong for them. A shrinking feeling when it’s a no, and an expansive feeling when it is a yes.

 

Emotional

People with emotional authority are deeply connected to their emotional and nervous systems, and their process often involves riding out the emotional wave before arriving at clarity. Emotions, both highs and lows, can arise intensely and persist for minutes, hours, or even days. This emotional wave can be incredibly powerful, shaping not only how they feel but how they express their emotions. Think of how artists like Adele move people with raw emotion in their music—her songs may make people feel deeply, sometimes even bringing them to tears. In much the same way, people with this emotional approach can have a profound impact on those around them, drawing others in with their warmth and emotional depth.

When it comes to making decisions, it's important for them to wait for a sense of calm before choosing a course of action. Emotional clarity often takes time to emerge, so it's essential to resist making choices during moments of intense emotional highs or lows. The advice here is to "sleep on it," because what might feel like a good idea today could turn out to be not so great after a little time to reflect. Truth, for these individuals, tends to reveal itself gradually, and patience is key. There's no need to rush. If others are waiting on them for a decision, the people around them will often grow more attracted to their energy the longer they wait for a response. Practices like Restorative/Yin Yoga or meditation can be particularly helpful for calming emotional fluctuations and creating the space needed for thoughtful decision-making. Ultimately, waiting for clarity allows them to live in harmony with their inner truth, even if that truth is not 100% clear right away.

 

Projector

 

Aura

Projectors are uniquely gifted at reading people and situations, offering deep insights and solutions that others might miss. Making up about 20% of the population, Projectors have an exceptional ability to recognize others, truly seeing them for who they are. This talent makes people feel deeply understood, which can be a profoundly beautiful experience. With what is sometimes called a “penetrating aura,” Projectors have the ability to connect with others on a soul level, perceiving and understanding their essence in a way that can feel almost intuitive.

Like all aura types, Projectors can achieve anything they set their minds to, but their approach to work is distinct. They don't thrive on long hours or pushing through exhaustion. Instead, Projectors excel when they focus their energy on tasks for a few hours a day, rather than grinding away for 14-hour days. Rest is essential for them to remain productive and inspired, as it helps expand their aura and recharge their energy. However, this doesn't mean they need to rest all day, every day, or avoid traditional work hours. It’s about finding a balance—being mindful of their need for rest while also experimenting with how to adjust their lifestyle to align with their natural rhythm. Some Projectors may find that too much rest can lead to feelings of no motivation or fatigue, especially if they’re resting out of obligation rather than listening to their body's true needs. Ultimately, the key is to trust their inner authority and listen closely to what their body requires to feel both energized and fulfilled.

A Projector's signature theme/feeling is success. This is felt when they’re on the right path. On the other hand, a Projector’s not-self theme is bitterness. This is felt when their strategy and authority aren’t being utilised.

 

Strategy: Wait for the invitation

The strategy for individuals with this design is to wait for the invitation. They are meant to be seen and recognized, and when this recognition comes, they will feel it deeply in their core. The most aligned opportunities for them will arise when they wait to be invited into something, and then use their inner authority to determine whether that invitation feels right or not. Whether they accept or decline the invitation is entirely up to them, but the key is in waiting for the invitation first. Invitations may not always be obvious—they can come in many forms. Someone might directly ask them to participate in something or alternatively, it might come in the form of body language, a subtle gesture, or a question that taps into their expertise or insight.

Their words and insights are highly valuable, and when received by an open, ready individual, it can create a deeply fulfilling experience. However, when someone isn’t receptive or doesn’t seem ready, it can feel draining and leave them with a sense of bitterness—something that is far from their true, aligned self. It’s important for them to be mindful of not offering unsolicited advice, as this can feel off-track. By waiting for an invitation, they can ensure their energy is directed toward people who are ready to receive and appreciate their wisdom, making the exchange much more powerful and meaningful.

 

Authority

A Projector can have one of five different types of authority:

• Self-projected

• Ego

• Environmental (Mental)

• Splenic

• Emotional

 

Self-projected

For a self-projected projector, the key to making decisions aligned with their authority is to speak things out loud. This process allows them to sense whether something feels right or wrong by hearing their own voice. As they speak, they often come to a conclusion on their own as their inner truth becomes clear. Using tools such as voice notes with a trusted friend can also help in this process, as it provides the space to talk things through without interruption. The most important aspect is to ensure that the projector has the freedom to express themselves fully, without others offering advice or judgment unless specifically asked for. It's essential to find people who can offer this space—listeners who won’t impose their own opinions or negative energy on them, but who let them explore their thoughts and feelings in a supportive environment. It’s all about liberating the mind from the pressure of decision-making and trusting the voice that comes from within.

 

Ego

The Projected Ego authority is a rare authority that is expressed through the heart and relies entirely on waiting for invitations before making decisions. It is deeply connected to identity and direction however unlike other authorities, those with a projected ego cannot trust their own impulses to take action. Instead, they must wait for others to recognize their worth and extend an invitation, which helps them feel aligned and powerful. It's crucial for them to surround themselves with people who recognize and value them, as this recognition is what helps them feel empowered and ready to act.

To stay aligned, individuals with a Projected Ego authority need to regularly check in with themselves by asking questions like, “What do I want? What do I need? What’s in it for me? What is my worth?” It’s okay to be kindly selfish—taking time to focus on what truly lights them up. Keeping their heart centre healthy means committing to what excites them and honouring the promises they make, which fosters a sense of fulfilment. Balancing work with rest is also essential, as well as allowing room for play and relaxation. When invited, those with Projected Ego authority have an enormous capacity to be a transformative force, and honouring their need for recognition and alignment will allow them to thrive.

 

Environmental/Mental

Environmental/Mental authority is another rare authority, sometimes referred to as "no authority" because people with this authority don’t have a traditional inner compass to guide decision-making. Instead, the truth for someone with this authority is revealed through the way their environment responds to their energy. They are highly sensitive to the people, places, and ideas around them, and can easily become influenced by others. Because of this, it’s important for them not to seek external opinions on decisions. Instead, they should use trusted people as a sounding board to help them hear their own thoughts and ruminations, which can clarify what feels right for them.

A person with Environmental/Mental authority has a strong, logical mind but can often get stuck in overthinking, especially when it comes to decision-making. They receive guidance through sensory information about their surroundings, and if something feels "off" in their environment—whether it's the people they're with or the energy of a place—their decisions will likely be impacted. It's vital for them to check in with themselves and ask, "Is this environment correct for me? Does it make me feel good?" Moving away from the mental realm and into the body’s intuitive response can help them get a clearer answer. Before committing to a new environment, it’s a good practice to visit first and observe how they feel there, allowing the environment itself to guide their decision.

 

Splenic

The Splenic authority is one of the rarest and most mystical types, found only in projectors and manifestors. It is deeply intuitive and operates through instantaneous knowing, offering subtle, psychic insights about whether something or someone is healthy for them. The spleen communicates in a way that feels almost like a “spidey sense”—a highly evolved, multi-sensory radar that provides warnings or guidance about their immediate well-being. These intuitive feelings are often fleeting, like a whisper that fades away just as quickly as it appears. Because the spleen doesn't repeat itself, it's essential to tune in to these moment-to-moment sensations without overthinking or second-guessing them.

Decisions made from the spleen are immediate and based on the present moment. What feels right for them now may not be the same in the future, so there's no need to dwell on decisions or wait to act. The spleen's voice is subtle and requires deep listening and presence. It’s important to block out external noise—whether from others or their own mind—and focus on what their body is telling them. Trusting their intuition can be challenging at times, but it's crucial not to let emotional pressures or outside influences sway their choices. With practice and attention, they'll learn to recognize these subtle signals more easily, allowing them to live more in tune with their own survival intelligence and well-being. Taking moments each day to turn inward and listen to their body will strengthen their connection to this authority over time.

 

Emotional

People with emotional authority are deeply connected to their emotional and nervous systems, and their process often involves riding out the emotional wave before arriving at clarity. Emotions, both highs and lows, can arise intensely and persist for minutes, hours, or even days. This emotional wave can be incredibly powerful, shaping not only how they feel but how they express their emotions. Think of how artists like Adele move people with raw emotion in their music—her songs may make people feel deeply, sometimes even bringing them to tears. In much the same way, people with this emotional approach can have a profound impact on those around them, drawing others in with their warmth and emotional depth.

When it comes to making decisions, it's important for them to wait for a sense of calm before choosing a course of action. Emotional clarity often takes time to emerge, so it's essential to resist making choices during moments of intense emotional highs or lows. The advice here is to "sleep on it," because what might feel like a good idea today could turn out to be not so great after a little time to reflect. Truth, for these individuals, tends to reveal itself gradually, and patience is key. There's no need to rush. If others are waiting on them for a decision, the people around them will often grow more attracted to their energy the longer they wait for a response. Practices like Restorative/Yin Yoga or meditation can be particularly helpful for calming emotional fluctuations and creating the space needed for thoughtful decision-making. Ultimately, waiting for clarity allows them to live in harmony with their inner truth, even if that truth is not 100% clear right away.

 

 

Manifestor

 

Aura

Manifestors make up about 9% of the population and are uniquely powerful in their ability to manifest what they want and need. Unlike other aura types, they don’t need to wait for signs from the universe—they are the sign. Their inner power allows them to envision and bring things into being, making them highly effective at manifesting their desires. Manifestors have what is often described as a "closed or repelling aura," which might seem off-putting to some, but in reality, it serves them well by repelling people who aren’t meant to be in their lives. This saves them time and energy by ensuring that only the right people and opportunities are drawn to them. Manifestors are also the only aura type that doesn't merge with others; they are impactors, not mergers, which means they don’t need to blend their energy with others in order to thrive.

Leadership and rulership often come naturally to Manifestors and they are designed to initiate action and make a lasting impact. They also find ease in solitude, where they can nurture the peace and clarity needed to manifest their desires. This process is entirely natural for them and doesn’t require external assistance. However, Manifestors may sometimes find themselves in situations where others try to control them, due to their powerful, self-contained energy. Their ability to glimpse the future can also make them feel as though they’re waiting for others to catch up, as they often see possibilities that others might not yet fully understand.

A Manifestor’s signature theme/feeling is peace. This is felt when they’re on the right path. On the other hand, a Manifestor’s not-self theme is anger. This is felt when their strategy and authority aren’t being utilised.

 

Strategy: To inform

For Manifestors, their strategy is to inform. Communication plays a key role in this approach; the essential practice is to inform others about decisions they’ve made, either before taking action or while they’re still in the process of considering it. This also applies if they decide not to follow through on something—letting others know helps clear the air and maintain smooth interactions. There's no need to ask for permission or approval; simply sharing what they’re doing allows for more ease, both for them and for those around them.

By informing others, they create space for clear, productive, and peaceful communication, opening the way for greater flow and less resistance in life. This practice removes obstacles and makes it easier for Manifestors to move forward and manifest their desires. It provides freedom from resistance, both internally and externally, and ensures that their actions are met with understanding, without having to adopt a passive or aggressive stance. Informing others, then, is not just about communication—it’s a tool that clears the way for greater alignment and ease in their journey.

 

Authority

A Manifesor can have one of three different types of authority:

• Ego

• Splenic

• Emotional

 

Ego

The Manifested Ego authority is expressed through the throat, and its truth is revealed through what they say in the moment. It’s important to listen to their own voice to understand their authentic truth, as speaking is essential for alignment. Blurted thoughts or spontaneous expressions are valid; this type of authority thrives on the freedom of speaking without overthinking or scripting. Trying to carefully craft their words or control the narrative can block the flow of truth.

This authority is designed to have an impact on the world, and the voice is the central guiding force in their life. Rather than leading with their mind or emotions, the voice initiates and directs their path. Trusting in their voice and surrendering to the truth it expresses is key—their voice runs their life, and when they follow it, they are aligned with their authentic power. The more they embrace this spontaneous, unfiltered expression, the more they will feel in tune with their true self and the impact they’re meant to have.

 

Splenic

The Splenic authority is one of the rarest and most mystical types, found only in projectors and manifestors. It is deeply intuitive and operates through instantaneous knowing, offering subtle, psychic insights about whether something or someone is healthy for them. The spleen communicates in a way that feels almost like a “spidey sense”—a highly evolved, multi-sensory radar that provides warnings or guidance about their immediate well-being. These intuitive feelings are often fleeting, like a whisper that fades away just as quickly as it appears. Because the spleen doesn't repeat itself, it's essential to tune in to these moment-to-moment sensations without overthinking or second-guessing them.

Decisions made from the spleen are immediate and based on the present moment. What feels right for them now may not be the same in the future, so there's no need to dwell on decisions or wait to act. The spleen's voice is subtle and requires deep listening and presence. It’s important to block out external noise—whether from others or their own mind—and focus on what their body is telling them. Trusting their intuition can be challenging at times, but it's crucial not to let emotional pressures or outside influences sway their choices. With practice and attention, they'll learn to recognize these subtle signals more easily, allowing them to live more in tune with their own survival intelligence and well-being. Taking moments each day to turn inward and listen to their body will strengthen their connection to this authority over time.

 

Emotional

People with emotional authority are deeply connected to their emotional and nervous systems, and their process often involves riding out the emotional wave before arriving at clarity. Emotions, both highs and lows, can arise intensely and persist for minutes, hours, or even days. This emotional wave can be incredibly powerful, shaping not only how they feel but how they express their emotions. Think of how artists like Adele move people with raw emotion in their music—her songs may make people feel deeply, sometimes even bringing them to tears. In much the same way, people with this emotional approach can have a profound impact on those around them, drawing others in with their warmth and emotional depth.

When it comes to making decisions, it's important for them to wait for a sense of calm before choosing a course of action. Emotional clarity often takes time to emerge, so it's essential to resist making choices during moments of intense emotional highs or lows. The advice here is to "sleep on it," because what might feel like a good idea today could turn out to be not so great after a little time to reflect. Truth, for these individuals, tends to reveal itself gradually, and patience is key. There's no need to rush. If others are waiting on them for a decision, the people around them will often grow more attracted to their energy the longer they wait for a response. Practices like Restorative/Yin Yoga or meditation can be particularly helpful for calming emotional fluctuations and creating the space needed for thoughtful decision-making. Ultimately, waiting for clarity allows them to live in harmony with their inner truth, even if that truth is not 100% clear right away.

 

Reflector

 

Aura

Reflectors are the rarest of the aura types, making up only 1% of the population. Their role in the world is to sample, reflect, and judge the quality of the environments around them, identifying what needs to be changed for the betterment of Earth and society. They have a unique ability to sense and feel the physical, psychic, or emotional health of a community, group, or environment, offering insights into what might need healing or adjustment. Reflectors are highly attuned to the cosmic environment and are guided by the 28-day lunar cycle, making them lunar beings. Their connection to the Earth, nature, and the cosmos is deep and profound, often reflecting a time before modern cities altered our relationship with the land.

Reflectors are designed to bring harmony wherever they go, with a deep desire for peace and balance. They are incredibly resilient but can be influenced by the transitions of the planets, which move through their chart each month, affecting their energy. It’s essential for Reflectors to take their time when making decisions, often needing to sit with a choice for an entire lunar cycle (28 days) before they feel ready to commit. Due to their openness, they can easily take on the conditioning of those around them, which can make them highly empathetic and sensitive to others. They also have a keen sense of who is living authentically and who is operating from a place of conditioning or a victim mentality. Because of this, being surrounded by the right people is crucial for Reflectors—they thrive when they curate their lives by intentionally choosing the people, places, and environments that align with their true nature. Their secret to success lies in finding the right people and environments, trusting the current of life, and allowing it to surprise them.

A Reflector’s signature theme/feeling is surprise. This is felt when they’re on the right path. On the other hand, a Reflector’s not-self theme is disappointment. This is felt when their strategy and authority aren’t being utilised.

 

Strategy: Wait a lunar cycle

A Reflector's decision-making is best guided by the rhythms of the 28-day lunar cycle, rather than by a fixed, internal sense of "yes" or "no." This approach doesn’t offer a direct, reliable internal compass like other types might have; instead, it aligns with the natural ebb and flow of the moon's phases. The cycle begins when an external offer or invitation comes their way, rather than initiating an action themselves. As the days pass and the cycle unfolds, clarity gradually emerges, without forcing a decision.

Throughout this lunar rhythm, it's important to take time and allow the truth to reveal itself organically, often through conversations with others. The intention is not to seek guidance on what to do, but to articulate one's own emerging insights. At some point in the cycle, the answer will often arise suddenly, from a deep, internal knowing. However, there may also be times when clarity doesn't fully emerge by the end of the cycle. In these cases, it's wise to give oneself more time, trusting that further reflection will bring the right understanding when it’s ready to surface.

 

Authority

A Reflector's authority is unique and is called a Lunar Authority.

For those with Lunar Authority, their decision-making process doesn’t come from an internal, fixed sense of authority, but rather from their connection to the 28-day lunar cycle. This reliable and repeatable pattern aligns with the moon’s transit through the 64 gates of the Mandala, providing a natural rhythm that offers guidance. Before making significant decisions, Reflectors need to allow themselves the full cycle of 28 days to reflect, contemplate, and discuss the issue with trusted confidantes. Only after this time of careful consideration will clarity emerge, often in a surprising and unexpected way—a deep inner knowing that arises from within.

This authority teaches the importance of slowing down and resisting the pressure of external timelines or expectations. It encourages Reflectors to trust the process and not rush their decisions. A key part of this journey is paying attention to their environment—ensuring it feels right and supportive. The right decision will come when the time is right, and in the meantime, patience and attentiveness to their surroundings play an essential role in their clarity.

 

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There are many other complexities in a person's Human Design blueprint but your aura, strategy and authority will be your best guide through the journey of your life. Ultimately Human Design teaches us to move out of the mind and into the body. As founder Ra Uru Hu said, “Most important to recognize is that this is knowledge to be experimented with. There is a way but it can only be your way. Allow this work to guide and inform you and then, if it is correct for you, enter into the most extraordinary journey of your life”.

Gabi Moran is an alchemist of human design, astrology and yoga. She works online and in-person (Sydney) as well as teaching yoga at studios around Sydney. To book a Human Design or Astrology reading or yoga class with Gabi click here.

 

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References:

The Definitive Book of Human Design - By Lynda Bunnell (and Ra Uru Hu)

Human Design Training Course Content - Emmie Rae of The Daily Rest