LIFE PATH NUMBERS

Numerology is the study of the relationships that numbers and letters have with your personality and life events (bear with me—I’ll explain how it all works in a sec). It’s an ancient metaphysical science(-ish), going back THOUSANDS of years. Numerology has branches and origins across multiple eras, cultures, and continents (which reinforces that there’s gotta be something in it, right? Within the practice of numerology, it's believed that we can better understand the world around us by observing numerical patterns in our daily lives. But this spiritual discipline can also help people better understand their inner world, too. With the help of a simple equation, anyone can discover their Life Path number, a single-digit number that is said to reveal who you are, your deepest values, and the challenges you may have to face. In order to find your Life Path number, simply take your birthdate and reduce it down to its numerical value. For example, if you were born on July 5, 1989, you'd first identify the separate values of the day, month, and year: July is the seventh month, so its number is seven. Your day of birth is, obviously, five. Finally, your birth year can be reduced down to a single number by adding its digits together (1+9+8+9 = 27) and then adding that sum's digits together (2+7 = 9). So, you now have three numbers you need to add together (7+5+9 = 22) and yet another sum to reduce (2+2 = 4). To use our earlier example, a number four Life Path suggests that you thrive on structure and crave security. When you work within the parameters of your Life Path number by, say, sticking to a steady routine and maintaining your health, you'll feel more present, Bender says. "When we are in alignment with our Life Path purpose, we feel on track, energized, and on point," she says. By contrast, if you're on a number four Life Path and make risky decisions, splurge on unnecessary expenses, or skip your annual medical checkup, Bender says you're likely to feel out of your element and more than a little aimless. "Everything we experience in our lives has to do with this purpose — everything," she says. Ahead, Bender walks us through all nine Life Path numbers and what they suggest about you and your life that lies ahead.