In Astro-Yoga, there are twelve series of yoga postures, each related to one of the signs of the zodiac. Every sign manifests a particular archetypal energy based, in part, on the planet that rules that sign. As the postures are performed, we use our intent to draw in the particular energy related to the sign of the series.

It may seem that yoga and astrology are two distinct disciplines, one a study of the patterns of the celestial bodies and how they relate to our lives, the other a physical discipline that also affects the mind and spirit. Yet, the connections between astrology and yoga are readily apparent as can be seen in the generic term, hatha yoga, which refers to all forms and styles of physical yoga.

Hatha is a Sanskrit word that relates to the ability to act, on one hand, and the ability to reflect, on the other. Ha is symbolized by a celestial body - the sun, which is the warm, creative, physical side of our being. Tha is symbolized by another celestial body, the moon - the cool, receptive, emotional and intuitive side of our personalities.

Practicing yoga harmonizes the two parts and brings the right and left hemispheres of our brains into synch. More directly, astrology and yoga are linked through prana, which in yoga philosophy refers to life force or life current. Prana, drawn in when we inhale, circulates through the body, sustaining and connecting body, mind, and energy. While prana is carried by the breath, it is much more than simply oxygen. It can also be 'inhaled' through our intent. It is a vital universal force that supports the mind and body just as it powers the planets and stars.

Prana moves in the body along nadis, or invisible energy channels, which energize the organs and cells. These channels intersect the body at points known as chakras, energy centers located at a roughly vertical axis from the tailbone to the crown of the head. In astrology, the chakras are linked to particular planets and sun signs. For instance, the sun and Leo are connected to the fourth chakra, anahata in Sanskrit, which is associated with the heart. Venus, which rules Taurus, is connected with the fifth chakra, or vishuddha, which is located near the throat.

In yoga, the movement of prana along the chakras is often directed in breathing exercises, or pranayama, and is sometimes the focus of active meditation. Astro-Yoga adds another level - the use of intent to draw and focus this energy force into our lives.