About Astrology
The Sanskrit word for astrology is jyotisha, which means the “science of light” referring to the lights in the sky. But is also refers to the light of understanding. It is the science of understanding the subtle influences that surround us all the time. Like yoga and ayurveda, jyotisha helps us to link with the cosmic intelligence of the universe. Quantum physics is beginning to understand the interrelatedness of all things and reveals how events can have influence even at great distances. Life on earth is completely dependent on the Sun for it’s energy. As this great energy source ebbs and wans throughout the year it surely affects life here on earth. The affects of the Moon are seen not only on the waters of the oceans, but the waters in our bodies. Is it that unscientific to think that the planets may have a similar subtle affect? Thousands of years of observation of the heavens have shown the remarkable influences of these celestial bodies on all aspects of our daily lives.
Vedic astrology, the astrology of India, is very tied to the idea of karma. Karma is the philosophy that actions always result in reactions unless these actions are done selflessly without attachment to the outcome. We are born on this planet as the result of karma generated in past lives. Your natal chart shows what karmas we brought with us into this life. Luckily we are not fated by the stars, only influenced by them. As we swim through this sea of unseen influences, astrology warns us of rocks ahead and gives us the vision to make the right decisions to make the most of our accumulated karmas. Jyotisha also has various means of ameliorating negative influences in ones chart. Spiritual practices, color therapy and gemstones among others are means of averting negative planetary influences or enhancing positive ones.
Your birth chart is a map of your basic personality. It can reveal your strengths and areas that may need more attention. In this way we can talk about career options, what you are looking for in a partner and what practices may be best for your spiritual progress. With the birth information of your partner, we can discuss the dynamics of your relationship, possible pitfalls and ways to strengthen what is already good between you. By looking at where the planets are today we can navigate through upcoming events in the most productive way. You cannot change the weather, but you can be more productive by preparing for the rain and by taking full advantage of the sunny days.
Vedic Astrology vs Western Astrology
Vedic Astrology uses the Zodiac belt as seen in the sky. This is called the Sidereal Zodiac, and the placement of the planets in you chart is based on which Zodiac sign the planet is actually seen to be in from earth. In Western Astrology, a symbolic Zodiac is used which is based on the position of the Zodiac as it was 2000 years ago. The Indians have been recording the movement of the stars consistently for over 4000 years and noticed that the constellations have shifted backwards over the centuries and they adjusts their calculations accordingly. This phenomena is called “the Procession of the Equinoxes.” The result is a more accurate account of the sky and hence a more accurate astrology reading.
