What is the Human Design System? A Complete Guide
By Anna de Vries · 8 min read
The Human Design system is a fascinating system of self-knowledge that helps you understand who you truly are. It was received in 1987 by Robert Alan Krakower, better known as Ra Uru Hu, during a mystical experience on the Spanish island of Ibiza. Since then, the system has helped millions of people worldwide gain deeper insight into their unique design.
The Origins of Human Design
Human Design combines five different wisdom traditions and scientific disciplines into one cohesive synthesis:
- Astrology - the position of the planets at the moment of your birth determines which gates in your chart are activated
- The I Ching - the Chinese Book of Changes forms the foundation for the 64 gates in the bodygraph
- The Kabbalah - the Tree of Life provides the structure for the channels that connect the centres
- The Hindu-Brahmin chakra system - the nine energy centres in the bodygraph are based on the traditional chakra system
- Quantum physics - neutrino theory forms the scientific foundation of the system
How Does a Human Design Chart Calculation Work?
To generate a Human Design calculation, you need three pieces of information: your birth date, birth time, and birthplace. Based on these details, two separate calculations are made:
- The conscious calculation (Personality) - based on the exact moment of your birth, shown in black in your bodygraph
- The unconscious calculation (Design) - based on the position of the Sun approximately 88 degrees before your birth (about 3 months prior), shown in red
Together, these two calculations form your unique bodygraph: a visual map of your energetic blueprint.
The Bodygraph: Your Energetic Map
The bodygraph consists of nine centres (similar to chakras), 64 gates, and 36 channels. A centre can be defined (colored) or undefined (white):
- Defined centres represent consistent energy that is always available to you. This is who you are.
- Undefined centres are areas where you take in and amplify the energy of others. This is where you learn and where you are susceptible to conditioning.
The Five Types
Human Design distinguishes five energy types, each with a unique Strategy and role:
- Generator - the builders, with consistent Sacral energy
- Manifesting Generator - the multitaskers, fast and versatile
- Manifestor - the initiators, who get things moving
- Projector - the guides, who can direct and manage others
- Reflector - the mirrors, who reflect the health of the community
Each Type has its own Strategy for making decisions and its own Not-Self theme that signals when you are not living in alignment with your design.
Why is Human Design Valuable?
Human Design offers a unique perspective on self-knowledge. Unlike many other systems, Human Design does not tell you what you should do; instead, it shows you who you already are. It is an invitation to experiment and discover what happens when you live according to your true design.
Many people experience greater peace, clarity, and satisfaction when they follow their Strategy and Authority. It can help you to:
- Make better decisions that truly suit you
- Understand why certain situations energize you while others drain you
- Cultivate deeper compassion for yourself and others
- Deepen your relationships by understanding the dynamics more clearly
Curious to discover your Human Design? Calculate your free chart and begin your journey of self-discovery. You can also read our guide for beginners to find out where to start.
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