“Double Calculation in Human Design and the Illusion of Seeking ‘Wholeness'”
In the context of Human Design, the concept of being or feeling like “one” is often seen as an illusion because our inner nature is inherently dual. The pursuit of wholeness, while common, can be misleading as it overlooks the fundamental duality of our existence. Instead of seeking an idealistic wholeness, we can aim for understanding and acceptance of our binary nature, which can lead to a deeper sense of balance and inner peace.
The binary approach presented in Human Design is not unique. It finds its roots and analogies in various traditions and philosophies worldwide. For instance, the ancient Eastern concept of Yin and Yang in Taoism is based on the idea of two opposing yet complementary forces. Similarly, in Western psychology, the distinction between consciousness and the subconscious reflects the same principle of dualism. We also have day and night, light and darkness, heaven and hell, masculine and feminine (without delving into this point here…), and many other examples in life.
In Human Design, there are two main calculations: The Design Date (often called “Neutrino Design Date”) and the Birth Date. These are key in creating a complete Human Design chart, also known as the BodyGraph. Each date provides different sets of data, essential for understanding an individual within this system. Here’s a closer look at each:
Birth Date Calculation:
This is the actual date and time of a person’s birth. It represents the conscious aspects of the individual. The positions of the planets at the time of birth are used to determine the conscious part of the chart. This includes the conscious definition of centers, channels, gates, and other aspects, such as the conscious Sun Gate, which plays a significant role in defining personality.
Design Date Calculation:
This is calculated around 88 days (approximately three months) before the birth date. It represents the unconscious aspects of the individual. The premise behind this calculation is the belief that about three months before birth, the body and the unconscious aspects of the being are being formed. The positions of the planets at that time are used to determine the unconscious part of the chart, including the unconscious definition of centers, channels, and gates.
In the process of creating a Human Design chart, both these sets of data are overlayed on the BodyGraph, showing which of the nine centers are defined or undefined, which channels are activated, and which gates are influenced by the planetary positions from both the birth and design dates. This comprehensive approach makes Human Design a complex and multidimensional system.
Why Two Calculations?
Human Design posits that individuals have both conscious (personality) and unconscious (design) aspects. The birth date reflects the personality – the conscious mind and traits that you recognize and identify in yourself (“Who do you think you are?”). On the other hand, the design date reflects the body (Ra called this our “vehicle” through which our consciousness travels – more on this in the “Vehicle and Passenger” article) and unconscious traits – aspects that are outside of conscious awareness but still influence behaviors, reactions, and health, and largely direct our life.
The interaction between these conscious and unconscious components makes each individual’s Human Design unique. By analyzing both sets of data, Human Design aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the individual’s traits, potential, challenges, and the most effective ways of interacting with the world.
Finding Moments of Wholeness in Everyday Life
Although being completely holistic may be illusory, there are moments in our life that can bring us closer to this experience. These moments often arise when we are fully immersed in the present, dedicated to the moment without a division between consciousness and unconsciousness. This can be experienced during:
- Meditation: Where the mind and body unite in deep peace and focus.
- Realization of Passion: When we engage in activities that fully absorb us, such as painting, writing, or any other form of expression.
- Physical Exercise, Yoga, etc.: Physical activity, especially that which requires focus, like yoga, running, or dancing, can lead to a flow state where the boundaries of consciousness blur.
- Playing Musical Instruments: Music and rhythm can transport us to a state where time and thoughts cease to dominate our experience.
- Work, Art, and more: When we are “100% present”…
Understanding our binary nature, both in the context of Human Design and in a broader philosophical and psychological sense, can help us achieve greater harmony and self-acceptance. While total unity may be an illusion, there are moments and experiences in our lives that allow us to approach a sense of wholeness. These moments of focus and complete engagement in the present can offer deeper insights into our nature and lead to a greater sense of peace and balance.
I must admit that for many years of my life, the sense of unity intrigued me, and I too succumbed to the illusion that it was an obvious result of years of self-work, self-development, meditation, etc. Human Design has provided me with clarity and an understanding of the fleeting nature of this idea. All the more, I treasure the moments of “Wholeness” in daily life, and… I wish for there to be as many of them as possible, which I sincerely wish for you, dear reader of this post.