The first time you see a bodygraph it looks like an impossible map: colored shapes, lines, numbers. The good news is that you don't need to understand everything at once. There is an order that goes from the most practical to the most subtle, and the first three steps already give you what you need to start experimenting.
This article is part of our complete Human Design guide. If you don't have your chart yet, get your free Human Design chart.
Before you start: what the bodygraph shows
The bodygraph has nine centers (the geometric shapes), 36 channels (the lines between them) and 64 gates (the numbers). On each side there is a column of planets: one is your Personality —what you know about yourself, calculated at birth— and the other your Design —the unconscious, calculated about 88 days earlier. Many charts show them in black and red.
A colored center is defined: it works consistently. A white center is open: that's where you take in and amplify other people's energy.
Steps 1, 2 and 3: type, strategy and authority
Your type comes from which centers are defined and how they connect. There are five: Generator, Manifesting Generator, Projector, Manifestor and Reflector. Each type has a strategy —how to move through life with less resistance— and each chart has an authority: the way your body knows what is right for you.
If you only take this in, you already have a practice: follow your strategy and decide from your authority for a few weeks, and notice what changes.
Step 4: your profile
Two numbers, like 4/6. The first comes from the line of your conscious Sun and the second from your unconscious Sun. Together they describe how you learn, relate and the role you tend to play for others. There are 12 profiles.
Steps 5 and 6: centers, channels and gates
Look at your open centers first: they are usually where your environment conditions you most, and where you can develop the most wisdom. Then look at your defined channels: fixed traits, gifts that are always available. Hanging gates (activated without their partner) show themes you look for in relationships.
Steps 7, 8 and 9: definition, cross and variables
Definition tells you whether your defined centers form one block or several separate groups. The incarnation cross describes the background theme of your life. Variables —the four arrows beside the head— are the finest layer: digestion, environment, perspective and motivation. They are valuable, but best explored after living your strategy and authority for a while.
Frequently asked questions
What should I look at first on my Human Design chart?+
Your type, strategy and authority. They are the most practical part of the system and the one that changes day-to-day life the most.
What do red and black mean on a Human Design chart?+
Black usually represents the Personality (conscious) and red the Design (unconscious, calculated about 88 days before birth). A gate in both colors is activated on both sides.
Can I read my own chart?+
Yes, the basics can be learned with guides like this one. For an integrated, personal reading you can order the full report.