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On
October 2nd, at 6:49 am, the Moon becomes full at 9 degrees Aries. This
has been a time of powerful soul searching for a nation in mourning. The
attacks on American institutions such as the World Trade Center and the
Pentagon have left the country scarred and frightened. Much of the investigation
has centered on Osama bin Laden, a militant Islamic fundamentalist living
in the hills of Afghanistan. Astrologically, Aries is associated with
the planet Mars and with themes such as anger, fighting and war. This
Full Moon may see a time of increased hostilities and intense interactions
with foreign countries. It is a time when the U.S. government needs to
proceed with caution and to be careful of making hasty and rash decisions.
A
Time to Focus on Relationships
With the
Sun in Libra and the Moon in Aries, this is an important time to focus
on the theme of relationships. Through developing harmonious relationships,
we work towards a greater sense of integration with the world around us.
Through communication and dialogue, we gain a better understanding of
our role in the world and how we can positively impact our community.
In this time of pain and sorrow, it is especially important to focus on
how we connect to the people around us. Though we may not personally know
someone who has died on September 11th, we are undoubtedly all impacted
by the events and may feel more fear and grief in our lives.
It is to
spend time with our friends and loved ones, to honor and be thankful for
the relationships we have and to acknowledge that these are the cornerstones
of a good, healthy life. The Full Moon in Aries points to a time when
we may feel physically energized, perhaps even a little angry and "ready
for action." We should take some of that energy and focus it on giving
support and care to the people around us. Through our love and devotion
we build strong bonds of community that are stronger than if we stand
alone.
Health Concerns: The Adrenals
In medical
astrology, Aries is associated with the adrenal glands, which connect
to the kidneys. They are responsible for emitting adrenaline when we experience
stress. Adrenaline gives us a burst of energy to help cope with the experiences
we are going through. However, it also tends to leave us feeling harried,
depleted and overwhelmed when we are in a constant state of stress. I
don't know about you, but since the September 11th attack, I have felt
more stressed out, nervous and generally emotionally intense. Over time,
these feelings can lead to what is known as adrenal burn out. We are unable
to deal with the continued high stress levels.
To help offset
the negative effects on the adrenal glands during this time, it would
be helpful to reduce the amount of stressful stimuli coming in. One way
to do this is to take periodic news fasts. I know many of us have been
glued to the television and are paying close attention to updates of world
events. However, this can have a cumulative effect on our adrenals and
our health and it would be smart to take a break once in a while, go outside
and get some fresh air or spend some time just relaxing with friends.
When we do this, we don't deny what has happened, we just give ourselves
the chance to recharge our batteries and make sure we can be more relaxed
and calmer.
Relaxing
Herbs
Another way
we can take care of ourselves through these difficult times is to try
drinking relaxing and calming herbal teas. I would recommend trying the
herbs chamomile, scullcap, valerian and passion flower if you are feeling
intensely nervous or frightened. These herbs are known as nervines, or
nerve tonics and relaxers. They will help you cope with the stress you
are experiencing. It may also be helpful to buy some lavender oil and
take periodic baths with a few drops of the essence in the hot water.
The aroma of lavender is extremely calming and reviving.
Working through Anger
Finally,
the Aries Moon may trigger strong emotional reactions and feelings of
outrage and anger. These emotions are definitely valid and it is important
to find a way to release them. Writing in a journal, painting or simply
screaming and crying in a private place are good ways of getting out any
bottled up feelings. Through expressing intense anger we may get to deeper
feelings of grief and sorrow. In this time of the Aries-Libra polarity,
it is essential that we have people around with whom we can discuss and
vent our feelings. Make sure that when you do this that you give your
friends time to express their feelings as well so that there is an equal
give and take. Good health to you!
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