Episode Summary: Valerie Tejeda - Happiness By The Signs

Self-Conscious with Chrissy Teigen
Host: Chrissy Teigen
Guest: Valerie Tejeda
Episode Title: Happiness By The Signs
Release Date: May 22, 2025

Introduction

In this enlightening episode of Self-Conscious with Chrissy Teigen, host Chrissy Teigen welcomes Valerie Tejeda, a renowned astrologist and best-selling author of Cosmic Care. Valerie shares her unique perspective on blending astrological wisdom with practical guidance to foster personal growth and self-care. The conversation delves into how astrology can serve as a framework for understanding and cultivating happiness, emphasizing the role of the 12 zodiac signs as pillars of joy and well-being.

Guest Background

Valerie Tejeda is an astrologist who specializes in traditional planetary rulers and their archetypes. Her work focuses on using astrology as a cosmic tool to help individuals understand their strengths, weaknesses, and pathways to happiness. Valerie is the author of the Audible Original Happiness by the Signs, which explores how each zodiac sign can cultivate specific pillars of happiness.

Main Discussion Points

Connection Between Happiness and Astrology

Valerie explains how astrology acts as a map for self-discovery, allowing individuals to tap into cosmic energies to better understand themselves and navigate life's challenges. She emphasizes that astrology goes beyond daily horoscopes, offering profound insights into personal fulfillment and joy.

Valerie Tejeda [02:48]: "Astrology is a really great cosmic tool. It's almost like a map in a way for us to get to know ourselves better and to kind of see our strengths, our weaknesses or shadow traits."

Understanding Traditional Planetary Rulers

Valerie elaborates on the significance of traditional planetary rulers in astrology. Each zodiac sign is governed by a planet that embodies its core archetype, providing deeper layers of understanding about one's energy and characteristics.

Valerie Tejeda [03:44]: "Each planetary ruler has an archetype. So like Cancer, for example, is ruled by the moon. So the archetype of the moon is nurturing your home, your space."

Happiness Pillars by Zodiac Sign

The episode introduces the concept that each zodiac sign represents a distinct pillar of happiness. Valerie outlines how these pillars are not only astrological concepts but also universal principles applicable to everyone, fostering a holistic approach to well-being.

Valerie Tejeda [04:35]: "Each of the signs have a pillar that I assigned to them for happiness by the signs. They all are key pillars in their own way."

Importance of Gratitude

Gratitude emerges as a central theme tied to the Sagittarius sign. Valerie shares her personal connection to gratitude as a foundational practice for maintaining happiness and resilience, especially through challenging times.

Valerie Tejeda [05:46]: "Gratitude has always been my self care, well being happiness anchor. It keeps me grounded, keeps me my head above water."

Influences of Zodiac Elements on Happiness and Self-care

Valerie discusses how the elemental classification of zodiac signs—earth, fire, air, and water—can influence one's approach to self-care and happiness. Each element suggests different rituals and practices that align with the individual's astrological profile.

Valerie Tejeda [06:44]: "Earth signs benefit from grounding rituals in nature, fire signs from activities involving fire like writing and burning, water signs from moon-centric rituals, and air signs from journaling."

Favorite Rituals

Valerie shares her favorite happiness rituals inspired by various zodiac pillars, including gratitude, cord cutting, and savoring life's small moments. She emphasizes the importance of integrating these practices into daily life to enhance joy and resilience.

Valerie Tejeda [07:31]: "I love the savor pillar of Taurus—pausing to enjoy our coffee or pastry because these small joys add up."

Resilience as a Theme

Resilience is highlighted as a crucial element for personal growth. Valerie explains how building resilience through happiness practices acts like a battery, empowering individuals to withstand life's adversities.

Valerie Tejeda [09:16]: "Resilience is like a battery. The more you're building that battery, the better you'll handle when life throws something challenging your way."

Connecting Deeply with Partners through Astrology

The conversation explores how understanding one's own and their partner's astrological signs can foster deeper connections, empathy, and compassion in relationships. Valerie provides insights into how astrology can enhance mutual understanding and support.

Valerie Tejeda [10:00]: "Astrology helps build empathy and compassion, making us better partners and friends by understanding each other's needs and energies."

Understanding Shadow Traits

Valerie emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing the shadow traits associated with each zodiac sign. By acknowledging these aspects, individuals can avoid common pitfalls and work towards a more harmonious life.

Valerie Tejeda [11:03]: "Every sign has shadow traits. Knowing them helps you know what needs to be pruned away so you can grow."

Practical Astrology Tips for Beginners

For those new to astrology, Valerie advises starting with understanding one's birth chart, particularly the sun, moon, and rising signs. She also recommends paying attention to moon cycles and incorporating rituals that resonate with these astrological elements.

Valerie Tejeda [14:47]: "Learning your birth chart and understanding your big three—sun, moon, and rising signs—is a great first step."

Guided Rituals

Valerie leads Chrissy through two specific rituals: a loving-kindness meditation aligned with the Cancer sign's compassion pillar and a gratitude ritual connected to Sagittarius' gratitude pillar. These guided practices are designed to enhance self-love, empathy, and appreciation for the present moment.

Loving-Kindness Meditation:

Valerie Tejeda [18:56]: "Close your eyes, relax, and take deep breaths. Think of someone you love and send them loving kindness phrases like, 'May you be happy, may you be healthy, may you live with ease.' Then extend those wishes to yourself."

Gratitude Ritual:

Valerie Tejeda [15:40]: "Reflect on a specific moment you feel grateful for, simmer on the associated feelings, and recite affirmations such as, 'I am grateful for the abundance of blessings in my life.'"

Concluding Thoughts

The episode closes with Chrissy expressing her gratitude for Valerie's insights and sharing her personal experiences with the rituals. Valerie reiterates the transformative power of integrating astrology into daily practices for enhanced well-being.

Chrissy Teigen [28:14]: "Thank you so much for being here. It's been a quick masterclass on the most beautiful parts of life."

Notable Quotes

• Valerie Tejeda [02:48]: "Astrology is a really great cosmic tool. It's almost like a map in a way for us to get to know ourselves better and to kind of see our strengths, our weaknesses or shadow traits."

• Valerie Tejeda [05:46]: "Gratitude has always been my self care, well being happiness anchor. It keeps me grounded, keeps me my head above water."

• Valerie Tejeda [09:16]: "Resilience is like a battery. The more you're building that battery, the better you'll handle when life throws something challenging your way."

• Valerie Tejeda [11:03]: "Every sign has shadow traits. Knowing them helps you know what needs to be pruned away so you can grow."

• Valerie Tejeda [15:40]: "Reflect on a specific moment you feel grateful for, simmer on the associated feelings, and recite affirmations such as, 'I am grateful for the abundance of blessings in my life.'"

Key Takeaways

• Astrology as a Tool for Happiness: Valerie Tejeda presents astrology as a comprehensive framework for understanding personal strengths, weaknesses, and pathways to joy.

• 12 Pillars of Happiness: Each zodiac sign embodies a unique pillar of happiness, offering universal principles to enhance well-being.

• Importance of Rituals: Integrating rituals aligned with one's astrological profile can significantly improve self-care practices and foster resilience.

• Gratitude and Resilience: Regular practices of gratitude and resilience-building are essential for maintaining happiness and navigating life's challenges.

• Deepening Relationships: Understanding astrological signs can enhance empathy and connection in personal relationships, promoting healthier and more supportive interactions.

Listen to Self-Conscious with Chrissy Teigen on Audible to explore more insightful conversations and personal growth strategies.