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On
Saturday, November 11, at 1:15 pm (PST), the Moon shines full in Taurus.
There are less than six weeks until the Winter Solstice arrives and until
the daylight hours begin to grow again in the Northern Hemisphere. As
the light diminishes this fall, many of us turn inward and spend more
time indoors and in quieter pursuits like reading, snuggling up by a fire
and hanging out with our loved ones. This might be a smart time to buy
some full-spectrum light bulbs if you are prone to depression from lack
of light. It is also essential to find time for exercise, which raises
the endorphins and offsets any lethargy and melancholy that might come
this time of year.
Taurus
and the Thyroid
In
medical astrology, Taurus is linked to the throat and the thyroid gland.
The thyroid gland plays an essential role in the regulation of body metabolism.
If our metabolism is functioning well, we burn up food properly and can
maintain a steady body weight. When the thyroid is overactive, the metabolism
heightens and there is a tendency toward restlessness, anxiety and weight
loss. When the thyroid is underactive, the metabolism slows down and there
is a tendency toward fatigue, depression and weight gain. With the Full
Moon’s emphasis on Taurus this month, it may be helpful to pay special
attention to this important gland.
To
help balance and regulate the thyroid gland, it can be helpful to look
at specific herbal supplements. In all cases, it is essential that a doctor
diagnose the condition before trying herbal remedies. For an overactive
thyroid gland, it is important to take a combination of herbs that are
simultaneously relaxing, balancing and tonifying. Valerian
or skullcap can be taken as nervine relaxants, bugleweed can be taken
to regulate the thyroid gland and nettles and licorice
can be taken to strengthen the entire system. In combination, a tea made
of these herbs would be especially beneficial for an overactive thyroid.
In
the case of an underactive thyroid gland, it is essential to build strength,
raise the metabolism and heal the digestive system. In this case, one
could take nettles and oats as strength building tonics, take bladderwrack
(kelp) and garlic
to increase the metabolism and a bitter like yarrow or wormwood to help
process and assimilate food to benefit and raise the metabolism. In all
cases, a diet of whole grains and vegetables and a proper amount of rest
are essential for healing the thyroid gland.
Taurus
and the Throat Chakra
In
Hindu philosophy, the throat chakra is linked to our creative power and
our self-expression. The throat is where we verbalize and vocalize our
intent and will in the world. It is the center where we emanate personal
power and give and receive with our community. When this center is depleted,
we are likely to feel shut down, uncreative and have difficulty generating
financial security. Physical ailments such as laryngitis, chronic sore
throats, TMJ and thyroid gland problems may develop. To strengthen this
center this Taurus Full Moon, take a deep look at your communication style
and how you interact with the world. Using your words to positively affirm
the people in your life and to speak openly and honestly with others will
develop what is called “right speech” in Buddhist thought. Right speech
is one of the tenets and moral precepts in Buddhism for living a good
and healthy life.
Our
words are deeply powerful and how we choose them has the capability to
shape and form our lives and paths. In religious and spiritual rituals,
words are carefully chosen because there is an understanding of how language
can be magically transforming and uplifting, or dangerous and destructive.
Using our words to tear down others, pin blame and take on the role of
a victim only works to damage our throat chakras and our sense of self-esteem.
So when we make prayers, talk to our friends and family and think and
talk about ourselves, we have the choice to be a little more thankful,
a little more humble and honest and a little more open and welcoming to
the community around us. The Taurus Full Moon is a wonderful time to strengthen
our throat chakra in this way and generate creative and positive energy
that will strengthen our health and well-being.
Breakthroughs
With
the Sun in Scorpio and the Moon in Taurus, there is an emphasis on fixed
signs this Full Moon. Fixed energy is magnetic, solid, powerful and hard
to change. In the last New
Moon column for two weeks ago, I talked about working with
habits and addictions. By untangling the root reasons for their presence,
there is a possibility for transformation and letting go of these fixations.
The Moon is now Full and in what is called a t-square configuration with
the Sun and Uranus. Uranus represents a powerful force for destabilization
and dramatic change. This time of the year presents an opportunity for
sudden and life-changing breakthroughs. When working with health, most
positive changes come slowly over a long period of time. This Full Moon
offers a chance to make decisions that irrevocably end damaging behavior
and hurtful lifestyle choices. If you have developed an addiction or an
unhealthy relationship, this Full Moon is a perfect opportunity to change
your life and embrace a stronger and healthier sense of self.
Editor’s
note: The health information given in this article is not meant as
a substitute for care from a qualified physician. This information is
given for educational purposes only, and is not intended to diagnose or
prescribe. StarIQ.com is not responsible for any mishaps that occur as
a result of using this information.
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