Stars Aligned: The Unexpected Boom of Fortune-telling in a Pandemic World
In a world still grappling with the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, people globally seek comfort and guidance in unexpected places. One such refuge has been the ancient practice of fortune-telling, experiencing a remarkable resurgence in these uncertain times.
Hilary Harley, who has been practicing as a counseling astrologer for over 20 years, says, “During the pandemic, my business tripled. Because nothing could explain what was going on. We're in a very de-structuring, deconstructing time right now in the history of humanity.”
According to IBIS World statistics, the psychic industry's annual change rate increased from -5.5% to 10.9% from 2020 to 2021. While the pandemic significantly impacted other sectors, fortune-telling was one of the few discretionary industries that weathered the economic downturn with relatively minimal declines. Instead, it experienced a small economic boom.
The pandemic introduced a level of uncertainty and stress unfamiliar to many. With lives and routines disrupted, individuals turned to practices offering a semblance of control and predictability. Eileen McBride, who is a psychology professor at Emerson College, mentions that “Control is such a critical part of mental well-being, if you have two people and both are under equal amounts of stress, you would expect them to have the same kind of symptom. But if one of them feels more of a sense of control, their health outcomes are so much better. "
This growth reflected a shift in the cultural landscape, with astrology and tarot finding acceptance in the mainstream. Harley says, “I've seen people on like Good Morning America or even articles in the New York Times and Wall Street Journal. Gen Z is really driving a lot of business, not just to astrologers but all metaphysical kinds of healers, psychic mediums, and intuitive energy workers.” These practices were no longer just tools for predictive insights but evolved into frameworks for personal understanding and growth.
The rise of online communities centered around spiritual and divination practices was another notable trend, providing supportive and engaging environments where people could connect and find solace during isolation. Harley says, “The pandemic forced people to really look deeper into their lives underneath the surface. And many people were at a crossroads that caused them to say.” Social isolation has also engendered feelings of helplessness and a lack of control over one’s life, with the external environment becoming increasingly unpredictable.
According to an article published in The Lancet by Dr. Jonathan P Rogers et al., “ Our main findings are that signs suggestive of delirium are common in the acute stage of SARS, MERS, and COVID-19; there is evidence of depression, anxiety, fatigue, and post-traumatic stress disorder in the post-illness stage of previous coronavirus epidemics.” Fortune-telling and divination practices have allowed individuals to regain control and agency. Author Katažyna Jankovska, in her article, mentions that “Contrary to conventional divination practices, there is no need for a one-on-one encounter in digital divination. ” These digital platforms not only made these services accessible but also normalized and integrated them into people's daily lives.
In a world where certainties have been upended, and the future seems increasingly nebulous, individuals have instinctively sought anchors that can provide some semblance of stability and understanding. Fortune-telling and divination practices have not only found renewed interest but have also served as crucial tools for navigation. These ancient practices have offered individuals a guiding light in the enveloping darkness, serving as a beacon of hope when despair seems omnipresent. “No one modality has the answer, and astrology is a tool that guides people. It should be used in conjunction with your own intuition,” says Harley. Engaging with these practices has been akin to finding a compass in a storm, providing direction and insight that help mitigate the overwhelming loss and confusion experienced during the global pandemic.
From economic growth to cultural acceptance, the revival of the fortune-telling industry stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit navigating through unknown terrains, seeking comfort in the mystical and the divine in times of need.
