2SLGBTQIA+ individuals are more likely than others to lean into alternative spiritual practices such as Astrology, Tarot, and Numerology as tools to assist decision-making and a form of emotional reassurance. Creators who are or position themselves as experts in these subjects amass large followings on social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Reddit. There, audience members consume content, receive readings, and learn more about these practices.
Here, we will explore what draws members of the queer community to these practices, potential benefits and harm related to these behaviors, and some recommended best practices.
The Data: Statistics on Queer Adoption of Numerology And Astrology
Here are some relevant statistics that we uncovered in our research:
- 60% of young people engage with astrology
- More young people than ever identify as queer
- Numerology and Astrology are embedded in queer culture with numerology and astrology, apps, websites, and influencers targeting this audience specifically
- Social media platforms and channels that focus on mystical practices tend to attract large numbers of queer followers
Potential Benefits of Embracing Numerology or Astrology
Members of the queer community who Taimi researchers interviewed listed three key benefits they experienced.
While there is no way to quantify whether or not these practices are scientifically valid, there is simply too much subjectivity and room for interpretation. However, individuals who engage in these practices may benefit from doing so.
1. Self-Awareness And Insights
People who follow these practices are more likely to analyze their own behavior patterns, emotions, or even their connections with others as a way to test the validity of the insights they receive from these practices or the advice they receive from practitioners.
2. Emotional Validation And Confidence
Engaging in Astrology or Numerology may bring a feeling of validation and confidence when the insights received align with the individual’s emotions or instincts. Additionally, these practices may lead to rituals that bring comfort and reassurance.
3. Compatibility Assessment
Many queer individuals will use Astrology and Numerology to provide some insight on whether or not they are compatible with potential partners. Whether Astrology and Numerology are adequate determiners of compatibility is dubious. However, these practices could be a gateway to revealing conversations and sharing opportunities that may help prospective couples understand one another better.
What Draws The Queer Community to These Practices?
2SLGBTQIA+ individuals have already challenged norms via their gender identities and/or sexuality. This often opens them up to the idea of exploring practices that don’t align with more traditional beliefs. This may include numerology and astrology. These practices may lead to a sense of connection with others who engage in these practices as well as offering an alternative perspective.
Negative Impacts
As practiced by many, Astrology, Tarot, and Numerology is harmless. There may even be some social-emotional benefits. However, there is some potential for negative impacts or challenges. For example:
- Over-reliance on these practices to the detriment of sound personal judgment or research
- Potential economic harm is caused if an individual invests money in these practices to the extent that they experience financial setbacks
- Distress caused when predictions or advice received do not align with reality
- Conflict with family, religious, or cultural beliefs
Recommendations And Best Practices
There are some benefits to engaging with Numerology and Astrology, as long as those practicing these do so in a healthy manner. These practices can lead to more introspection, better communication, and a feeling of community. However, it is imperative to view these practices as supplementary, especially when using them to guide relationship choices or major life decisions. Anyone using Astrology, Numerology, or similar practices should be aware of potential negatives and set limits on how they choose to engage. This might include:
- Setting a hard budget limit on what they spend on readings or other paid services
- Ensuring they use other tools available to them to determine relationship compatibility
- Being aware of the amount of time they are spending engaging in these practices
- Maintaining healthy skepticism that allows them to compare mystical predictions with real world outcomes
Those who don’t believe in these practices should recognize that most people practicing them aren’t being harmed, nor are they causing harm. As the image above shows, queer individuals are overwhelmingly relying on experience and intuition to make dating choices.
Mocking, ridiculing, or shaming people for enjoying Astrology or Numerology is more likely to make them feel more disconnected and to seek community elsewhere. As long as no harm is being done, the best approach is to simply respect that person’s autonomy and recognize that they are experiencing emotional benefits from these practices.
Conclusion – There May be Dating Benefits
On the issue of dating, our research indicates that some people may experience some benefits in the area of dating. Astrology may lead to deeper insights and self-awareness and may even inspire conversations that can help individuals better determine compatibility. The Taimi research team encourages each person to explore these and other practices if they choose but to also use other tools to help build healthy relationships.
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