Type, Strategy, Authority, Profile, Centers, Channels, Gates, Cross — all in one article. A reference guide to bodygraph elements.
The Bodygraph: A Map of Your Energetic Mechanics
The Human Design bodygraph is a visual representation of your unique energetic configuration. It consists of many elements, each playing its own role. In this article, we'll briefly review each element so you have the complete picture.
1. Type
Type is the foundation of your Design. There are five Types: Generator, Manifesting Generator, Projector, Manifestor, Reflector. Type is determined by the configuration of Centers and Channels. It describes your overall energetic mechanics and your role in interactions with others.
2. Strategy
Each Type has its Strategy: wait to respond (Generators), wait for the invitation (Projectors), inform (Manifestors), wait a lunar cycle (Reflectors). Strategy is your daily navigator.
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Calculate your chart3. Inner Authority
Authority is the mechanism for making correct decisions. It can be Emotional, Sacral, Splenic, Ego, Self-Projected, Mental, or Lunar. Authority is determined by the hierarchy of defined Centers in your bodygraph.
4. Profile
Profile consists of two lines (from 1 to 6) and describes your life role. There are 12 possible combinations: 1/3, 1/4, 2/4, 2/5, 3/5, 3/6, 4/6, 4/1, 5/1, 5/2, 6/2, 6/3. The first line is conscious, the second unconscious.
5. Nine Centers
Centers are the energy hubs of the bodygraph. Each governs a specific function:
- Head — inspiration, mental pressure
- Ajna — thinking, conceptualization
- Throat — expression, communication, action
- G Center — identity, love, direction
- Heart (Ego) — willpower, value, material world
- Sacral — life force, sexuality, work energy
- Spleen — intuition, immune system, survival instinct
- Solar Plexus — emotions, feelings, emotional wave
- Root — adrenaline pressure, stress, motivation
6. Channels (36 Channels)
Channels are connections between two Centers. Each Channel is formed by two Gates. A defined Channel provides fixed energy and defines both Centers it connects. The bodygraph has 36 possible Channels, each carrying a unique theme.
7. Gates (64 Gates)
Gates are specific points in Centers, corresponding to the 64 hexagrams of the I Ching. Each Gate has its own theme, and each Gate has 6 lines that add nuance. Gates without a partner (without the opposing Gate) are called "hanging" — they seek connection in the auras of other people.
8. Incarnation Cross
The Incarnation Cross is your life theme. It's determined by four Gates: Sun and Earth in conscious (black) and unconscious (red) calculations. There are 768 Cross variations, creating incredible diversity in life themes.
9. Variables
An advanced element consisting of four arrows near the head of the bodygraph. They indicate the correct diet, environment, perspective, and motivation for you. This is a deeper level of analysis for those who've already mastered the basics.
10. Color, Tone, and Base
Each Gate has not only a line but also a Color, Tone, and Base — these are deep levels of specificity. They're used for dietary analysis (PHS), environment, and cognitive architecture.
Where to Start
Don't try to master everything at once. Start with Type, Strategy, and Authority. Then add Profile and Centers. Gates, Channels, and Cross will come with experience.
Calculate your bodygraph and explore each element step by step.