
Jessica Holmes is a writer, teacher and astrologer. She lives in Oregon.
For how long have you studied astrology?
I have been studying astrology for 6 years and have been offering private natal chart readings for 3.
What approach do you take?
I practice Western astrology, using the tropical Zodiac. In my opinion, astrology is both a science and an art.
I approach the reading of a natal chart as a form of interactive creative expression and intuitive storytelling. I do not emphasize predictions or horoscopes in my readings (i.e. I will not tell you to buy a lottery ticket on a certain day or that you are destined to be a lawyer or a basketball player). Rather, I help you use the birth chart as a supportive site of self-inquiry, reflection and discovery.
So you believe in free will?
Yes! We each have a relationship with the sky; it isn’t happening to us. I use the natal chart to illuminate infinite possibilities and the sovereignty you have over your own life. Astrology can help you connect to your innate power!
What is a birth chart reading?
An astrological “birth chart” or “natal chart” is essentially a snapshot of the sky at the moment of your birth. It is, in some sense, a map of you and a flexible guide for your life path. By examining the placement of celestial bodies (stars, planets, asteroids…) and their relationship to each other, we can productively highlight key themes in your life, perform character analysis, and offer insight into your personal growth (including past, present and future).
The practice of reading and interpreting a birth chart is an art form. Each astrologer or “artist” has their own unique approach and will bring different strengths to the table. No birth chart reading will be the same.
How can a birth chart reading help me?
Astrology fulfills different roles for different people. For some, a reading can provide a casual bit of fun or an opportunity to indulge curiosity. For others, it’s a spiritual, therapeutic, psychological, scientific, historical and/or imaginative exercise and experience. No matter your level of knowledge and commitment, astrology is uniquely positioned to foster self-awareness, self-reflection, and self-growth. Through individual and communal forms of meaning-making, we learn to better navigate the confusing, challenging, beautiful universe in which we live.
I ask that you arrive with curiosity and open-mindedness. But always remember: while I provide experience and insight as a practicing astrologer, your chart belongs to you and only you! You have autonomy over your life and the power to make meaning as you so choose.
If you have specific goals or wishes for your reading, or if there are particular themes you’d like to focus on, please let me know when you schedule your reading. I would love to meet you wherever you’re at!
What information will I need to provide?
1. Birth date (including year)
2. Birth place (city/town)
3. Birth time (the more exact, the better!)
This information (and the reading itself) is private, meaning I will never share your personal birth data or chart with anyone without your explicit permission.
What if I don’t know my birth time?
We can still do a reading! There is plenty to ascertain from your chart without knowing your precise birth time. There are also birth chart rectification methods we can apply on an individual basis. If you don’t know your exact time, but you have a general idea, such as morning/afternoon/evening, that can help us too.
Why “Double Leo Astrology”?
Both my natal sun and ascendant are in Leo. In my astrology practice and business, the Leo archetype of the (in my case female) lion is a source of creative inspiration. Lion prides are matriarchal, meaning the lioness is a leader, huntress and protector. Likewise, I am loyal and nurturing to my clients, I possess the courage to help you face radical truths about yourself and the world, and I apply the non-hierarchical principles of matriarchy to my interpretation of the sky.
And in true Leo fashion, I prioritize a spirit of fun and play!