Get to Know Jennifer ANGEL!
Harper’s BAZAAR Interview Jennifer Angel
- How did you first become interested in astrology?
An element of metaphysical awareness and spiritual sensitivity seems to run in my family; my mother used to dream of events, like Patricia Arquette in the TV show, “Medium.” These things were not as openly accepted back then, of course, and I think I was the only person Mum ever confided in. In my teens, my own psychic abilities started to surface; I used to think of things and then they would happen, but at the time, with no one to talk to about such things, that power triggered a lot of inner fears and I closed myself off from it. Then in my late teens I participated in what was called a closed meditation circle, when even the concept of meditation was still rather foreign and misunderstood, at least in the culture I was living in, and there began my journey and fascination with the world beyond, including astrology.
Astrology is a field of such complexity, with an amazingly rich history and I found myself drawn further and further into it. I am constantly amazed by the scope, depth and potential for insight and knowledge available through astrology. The more you understand it, the more amazed you are by the genius of Creation, by the holistic nature of the universe. One of my favorite quotes is, “Awe is the beginning of wisdom,” and a relatively in depth understanding of astrology certainly inspires awe and, I think, does lead to wisdom, because you begin to perceive the universal psyche and marvel at its reflection in human experience.
- How did you make it into a career?
The one over-arching theme in all the work I’ve done in my life is the desire to facilitate people’s growth. Whether it was in the beauty industry, assisting people to improve their outer appearance and self-confidence, relationship counseling, intuitive consulting, or in the metaphysical realm as an astrologer, all have afforded me the privilege to help people evolve and live better lives. Astrology is a tool that introduces you to another dimension of yourself and those you relate to, which promotes both self-knowledge and understanding of others.
I have always been drawn to publishing, and wrote articles on beauty, Q&A advice columns and relationship guidance, so metaphysical topics and astrology was a natural progression, particularly as the potential for educating, encouraging and inspiring people is so broad with astrology.
I love being able to reach a vast number of people from all walks of life and cultures. In today’s world, with technology, it is possible to touch the lives of many people on a global basis. I’ve done many things: television, radio, and I’m an author and columnist. As a true Capricorn, I am ambitious and have a strong desire to make a difference in the world through my work
- How do you think people can best utilize astrology in their daily lives?
A basic grasp of your Sun sign and following high quality Sun sign columns certainly provides some insight into your character and the influences to take into account when negotiating your day-to-day life. To best utilize all that astrology can provide would entail a greater understanding of your entire birth chart, including interpretation and guidance by a reputable astrologer. Any tool becomes more useful with knowledge, and astrology is a tool for understanding oneself and the influences, potentials and challenges that are specifically relevant to one’s own karmic path.
- What do you think is the most powerful thing about astrology?
Knowledge is power; knowledge and understanding of astrological influences gives you increased awareness with which to deliberately create your life. It gives you the power of responsibility to consciously strive for the potential inherent in any given chart, moment or relationship. Everything on the physical plane has a positive and negative, a light side and its shadow. A good use of astrology helps you make the most of your natural abilities and avoid the pitfalls. Any situation can be turned around, and any opportunity can be wasted; the greater your awareness, the more you are the artist of your experience. It is also extremely powerful to understand the spirit of the age in which you live; to understand the big picture in terms of current events and history. Astrology absolutely provides profound insight into the themes, conflicts and direction of cultural development.
- What's one thing people may not be doing that they should when it comes to using the stars in their lives?
Astrology can introduce you to a deeper understanding of your true essence. Daily horoscopes based on your Sun sign highlight the general overview for that day, or period, for each sign and how that sign will react, how to prepare for or consider changes relevant to that period.
Your personal horoscope reveals infinitely more. There are many different layers to a birth chart, which provide an in-depth look into your life through outlining the planets and aspects when you were born. It affords significant insights into your personality and life on all areas; home, relationships, education, career, finance, what motivates you, your creativity, the challenges you face and how to overcome them. It is your own personal blue print of life, and a guide to how you can best navigate your life’s journey.
- What's your favorite sign?
As a Capricorn with Sagittarius rising and a Cancer Moon, I relate closely to all these signs, but I’d say the sign that intrigues me most, is Aquarius. I appreciate and respect Aquarius for many reasons and feel they are the most misunderstood sign of the zodiac. They are intelligent, often to the point of genius, humanitarian, independent, innovative, and just a little (or a lot) quirky. Aquarius is an air sign, and they are generally conjuring up some future-forward creative idea to pioneer – they are in their head a lot of the time, masterminding their next move.
Textbook astrology paints a picture of them as aloof, even standoffish, and if their close friends or associates are a tad insecure they can take it personally, when really it is nothing to do with anyone else, it is just Mr. or Ms. Aquarius doing their own thing. A needy person is definitely not for the Aquarian. They are the least judgmental sign, and quick to offer a hand to those less fortunate. When it comes to style, they are unique; different and original – they may not follow the trend of the moment, but they will always look creatively put together! What’s interesting is - I’m a Capricorn, so Aquarius is the following sign in the progression of the zodiac; it represents what Capricorn will become – the next step, in other words. So I’m intrigued by and attracted to the next evolutionary phase.
- Why do you think those who love fashion are also so interested in astrology?
Astrology, like fashion, is an expression of who you are. Whether it’s casual, business, social, or a touch of glamour with a personalized, creative spin, people who love fashion are interested in exploring and expressing who they are. Fashion helps you express your essence and identity outwardly, through your personal appearance and overall image. Astrology is who you are on the inside, how you relate to the world, your character and spiritual self. One’s fashion sense arises out of the qualities of your astrological make-up; your Sun sign and, most definitely, through your rising sign - the sign that was coming up over the Eastern horizon at your birth. That’s a basic element of your birth chart. The rising sign affects one’s style, persona and other aspects of appearance.
Interest in fashion arises from a basic appetite for life’s experiences – the potential joy of being a spiritual soul living in a physical body! When you have a healthy appetite for life, when you want to feel great about yourself and expand your life to its most fulfilling dimension, it’s natural to be curious about the mystery behind it all. And of course, smart women (and men!) want all the information and inspiration they can get. Fashion enriches the experience!
Jennifer Angel Interview
by Terry Dagrosa of SeductionMeals.com
- What inspired you to become Jennifer Angel Mistress of Astrology?
There has been one common element in my work over my life. Whether it was in the beauty industry, assisting people to improve their outer appearance and self-confidence, relationship counseling, intuitive consulting, or in the metaphysical realm as an astrologer, all have afforded me the privilege to help people grow, evolve and live better lives. Astrology is a tool that introduces you to another dimension of yourself and those you relate to, which promotes both self-knowledge and understanding of others.
- What do you like most about what you do?
I love being able to reach a vast number of people from all walks of life and cultures. In today’s world, with technology it is possible to touch the lives of many people on a global basis. My work is varied and interesting. Over my life I have done many things: television, radio, stage shows and I’m an author and columnist. Between writing, film and media, and with so much to continually learn, there’s never a dull moment! As a true Capricorn, I am ambitious and have a strong desire to make a difference in the world through my work. I also love being my own boss and largely working from home allows me to spend time with my beloved poodle, Yogi, as in - spiritual advisor. I have an intensely demanding schedule and Yogi keeps me sane.
- You have been studying philosophy, astrology and metaphysics for 30
years - what universals truths have you discovered along the way?
The one truth I know is that relationship provides an essential platform for learning and personal growth. The more you grow toward genuine self- acceptance, the more you can like and love other people. The more you appreciate yourself for all your traits, the irresistible and irritating, the more you are able to really see and appreciate others. The more unconditional love you have for yourself, the more you have for others. It is a simple formula, but one that can take a lifetime and beyond to learn.
- If you could invite six people to dinner who would you want at your table? (current or historical) And where would you entertain? Home or elsewhere?
As one of my dreams for this lifetime is to facilitate education in self-development and understanding of our universe, I would invite people who could help me achieve this goal. First on the list is Athena Starwoman, my dear friend and mentor, inspirational and wise beyond her years while here on earth. Oprah Winfrey for her understanding, quest for self-awareness, evolutionary approach to media and influence in the world. The Dali Lama for his wisdom and compassion. Michael Jackson for his creativity and Virgo perfectionism. Nelson Mandela for his determination, spiritual insight and unshakable faith. And Hermes Trismegistus, the Egyptian adept and father of alchemy!
The venue: As an Australian, in the southern hemisphere I would choose a restaurant on Sydney Harbour, with full view of the stunning architecture of the Opera House. As I now live in New York, I would select somewhere local. I adore Central Park, so a springtime party at the Boat House would be fabulous. The natural setting is gorgeous and the buzz of the people strolling by, the presence of animals, and the beautiful water, right the middle of New York City, it’s just fantastic.
- What do you think is the most important part of creating a romantic meal for two?
Atmosphere is vital for romance! You want to ignite the five senses; sight, smell, taste, touch and sound. Make it sensual all across the board. If you pay attention to this simple formula, you’ll create a recipe for romance.
- What is your Seduction Meal? The one dish that always dazzles?
The food itself shouldn’t upstage or impede the togetherness of two people. It needs to be easy to eat, not a task that takes your attention from your lover. I also think it is important to keep the amount of food to a minimum. Select good quality food but not a lot of it so it doesn’t weigh you down and make you feel like being a couch potato afterwards. You want to still feel sexy after dinner, not heavy and sleepy.
Champagne is seductive with its bubbles and a great start to any meal, whether it is breakfast lunch or dinner. My seduction meal is grilled fish; my favorite is wild salmon, along with vegetables in season. Fish is easy to eat, not like trying to wind pasta around your fork or a steak that takes time to cut and chew. With fish, you can keep the conversation going, as it doesn’t take long to eat each mouthful. Desert is strawberries soaked in liquor, and make sure you load the coffee pot, because even if you don’t get to coffee over dinner, it will be ready for you in the morning!
SydneyChic.com.au Interviews Jennifer ANGEL
You lived in Sydney and moved to NYC - do you still consider Sydney your home?
Australia will always be my home - I am honored and proud to be Australian! Actually, I feel very fortunate to have been born in Australia. Having travelled to many corners of the world, I’ve come to really appreciate the Australian quality of “tell it like it is,” straightforward honesty. It’s refreshing, life-affirming and comes from a heart-centered integrity. I love the way Aussies don't take themselves too seriously. They’re able to laugh at themselves and their down to earth, approachable manner instantly puts you at ease.
What do you love about Sydney?
I was born in Victoria and my first trip to Sydney was pretty much love at first sight. Not only for its cosmopolitan beauty but because Sydney-siders embrace life with an open-hearted acceptance that encourages others to do the same. As a New Yorker now, I feel this is one of the similarities between the two cities. Anti-discrimination is a strong issue for me, and this is one of the reasons I love both Sydney and New York.
Good food, great people, fantastic golden sand beaches and amazing sights - Sydney really does have it all! And I was lucky enough to live right in the CBD or very close to the city. My last two years in Sydney I lived at Woolloomooloo Wharf, and my morning walk took me through the Royal Botanical Gardens and around the Sydney Oprah House; I can assure you, that's a view you never tire of!
How did you enter the world of metaphysics?
With a Sagittarius rising and Jupiter as my chart ruler, I was destined to be interested in metaphysics and the mystical side of life. It’s in my blood; my mother used to dream of events, like Patricia Arquette in the TV show, “Medium.” But of course back then these subjects were still pretty hush-hush, and I think I was the only person Mum ever confided in. When I was a teenager I used to think of things and then they would happen, but at the time, with no one to talk to about such things, that power triggered a lot of inner fears and I closed myself off from it. Then in my late teens I participated in what was called a closed meditation circle, back when even the concept of meditation was still rather foreign and misunderstood, and there began my journey and fascination with the world beyond.
How much study did it take to become an Astrologer?
Astrology is a field of such complexity; it’s totally absorbing, with an amazingly rich history and so many branches and techniques that there is literally always more to learn. I am constantly amazed by the scope, depth and potential for insight and knowledge available through astrology. Just when you think you’ve pretty well mastered your craft, another level of understanding presents itself and you realize how much more there is to learn. Apart from formal study and continual reading and revision, my greatest teacher was my good friend and colleague, Athena Starwoman; an inspirational sage who was wise beyond her years. Even though she is very close to me in spirit, I still miss greatly. I was blessed to know her.
What's AstroPoodle about?
Here’s where my Sagittarius rising shows itself again (smile.) The love of animals nourishes our spirit and a pet like a dog is such a gift! They teach us unconditional love and give us joy beyond words. The health benefits of owning a pet is well documented and has been proven to enhance one’s life in many ways. My little Yogi, a teacup poodle, who may be small in stature but by no means in attitude, is Astropoodle’s CEO and inspiration. Caring for Yogi has enriched my life tremendously; pet owners are like a family, or a club whose members understand the nurturing love of animals. Astropoodle has everything from blogs and articles to fun and practical resources to horoscopes, all written in Yogi’s irreverent, cosmopolitan style.
How would you describe your Style when it comes to clothing?
Whether it’s casual, business or social, I love a touch of glamour with a personalized, creative spin. An expressive, artsy essence, which can be added with accessories or a little unique take on a traditional look, like mixing and matching style or color, allows my individuality to shine through. As a Capricorn, I look for good quality but love a bargain, and can pick up amazing couture at the end of season at a fraction of the cost. Yet another reason to love New York – and the internet!
