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During challenging times it is especially helpful to look to the stars. Rahu's and Ketu's influence can be seen in the global pandemic, but this April we also have planets that are well placed for dealing with a world crisis.
Many of the planets are very strong now, but they are all also influenced by Rahu and Ketu. A global pandemic is astrologically expressed through Rahu and Ketu, known as shadow planets or the lunar nodes. Rahu and Ketu, always opposite and 180 degrees from one another, express mass karma.
We are currently experiencing Kala Sarpa yoga, which gives Rahu and Ketu a lot of power. This yoga occurs when all the planets are transiting on one half of the zodiac, flanked by Rahu on one side and Ketu on the other.
Rahu transits the sign of Gemini, a volatile air sign, and is in Ardra nakshatra. Rudra is the deity connected with Ardra nakshatra, also known as the God of Storm. Rudra is a form of Lord Shiva.
The image for Ardra nakshatra is a teardrop. A teardrop can symbolize sorrow and grief. A teardrop can also represent sweat, which means that something requires effort. This teardrop in Ardra is also known as “the rain after the storm” and will eventually bring clarity.
Rahu leaves Ardra and moves into Mrigashira nakshatra on May 20th.
Rahu leaves Gemini and moves into Taurus on Sept 22nd, 2020
Ketu rules viruses. Ketu transits in Sagittarius, in Moola nakshatra. Moola means root and is connected to Muladhara, our chakra of survival. Moola is symbolized by a bundle of reticulated roots. Ketu can express chaos and confusion and has a withdrawing energy. Ketu is also connected with sudden loss and change. Perhaps Ketu’s transit in Sagittarius also points out the need for the change and transformation of basic values and attitudes.
Another symbol for Moola is an elephant’s goad. Traditionally, an elephant trainer uses a sharp goad to make an elephant change his direction. This nakshatra represents the strong and sometimes painful nudge we need to bring about change in our lives. Pain can be experienced in Moola nakshatra until the need to change becomes apparent. The deity for Moola is Niritti, the goddess of dissolution. It has been said that we need to meet her gaze with courage and with truth.
Ketu remains in Moola and Sagittarius until Sept 22nd, 2020 when it will move into Scorpio. The Lunar nodes always move in a retrograde motion.
The planetary positions now are excellent for dealing with a world crisis such as we have now. Saturn’s transit in his own sign Capricorn, gives caution, commitment and resilience. Mars in his exaltation sign gives courage. Jupiter, although in debilitation, is still capable of giving advice and guidance. The combination could not be better when it comes to fighting a war and the world is rising to the occasion. The Sun will also be exalted between April 13th to May 13th in Aries.
These planetary combinations give the ability to respond efficiently, courageously and to work hard. My deepest respect and gratitude to the courageous warriors on the front lines.
However, during March 31st and April 1st Mars and Saturn are fighting a war with one another. This is because they are on the same degree in Capricorn. Mars wants action and Saturn is cautious, which can often result in anger and frustration. But as we move into April the two planets will separate and their combined strength brings out the ability to fight with focus and courage. The world is facing reality, working together and willing to work hard.
It seems strange to a westerner to refer to Venus as male but in vedic astrology all the planets are male. In Sanskrit the name for Venus is Shukra. Shukra means sweetness.
In vedic mythology Brihaspati (Jupiter) and Shukra (Venus) are guides and teachers. Brihaspati guides and liberates the Devas through wisdom, faith and dharma. Shukra wants to transform and raise the consciousness of the Asuras, the unruly demons. He guides them through principles of attraction.
Venus rules Taurus, an earth sign, and the long stay of Venus in Taurus from March 28th to July 31st is very timely. Many of us are isolated at this time and Venus can help us to remain strong in our confinement at home.
Applying the five senses for upliftment, creativity and healing come under the rulership of Venus. Here are some suggestions of things we can do:
Sight
Drawing and painting! Take out those crayons. Do art. Practice visualizations. Appreciate the beauty in everything around you.
Sound
Listen to uplifting music. Sing or practice an instrument. Do mantras. The Mahamrityunjaya mantra is excellent for its healing and protective qualities. It also removes fears.
Taste
Prepare and eat good, healthy meals.
Smell
If possible go outside and smell the trees and flowers that are blooming this spring. Do aromatherapy.
Touch
Planting seeds and preparing for growth is excellent with Venus in Taurus. If you have a plot next to your house, or even some pots on your balcony, now is a good time to garden. Plant the seeds, touch the earth. Nurture your flowers and houseplants.
Devotion
In addition to experiencing through the senses, Shukra (Venus) is also a meditator and very devotional. We can bring the sweetness of Shukra into our spiritual practice.
Blessings to all,
Lina
