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 On
August 3 at 10:56 pm (PDT), the Moon waxes full in Aquarius. This Full
Moon is momentous because it signals the start of an opposition between
Saturn in Gemini and Pluto in Sagittarius. Saturn rules structures and
Pluto rules transformation. During this cycle that lasts until May of
2002, we could see dramatic changes in how we create and manifest things
in our lives. The foundations we have built, the core ideas and beliefs
we have and the partnerships and bonds we have made may need to grow and
transform throughout this period. This Full Moon heralds the beginning
of this cycle and this is an important time to look inward and see what
may need to change and how we can assist and nourish ourselves through
this process.
Aquarius
Moon: A Revolution in Language
With this Full
Moon we can look at Aquarian ways to help manifest positive transformation
of our lives. Aquarius relates to themes such as language, thought and unique
and revolutionary perspectives. One of the most powerful ways we can become
stronger and healthier people is to work with the language that we use in
our everyday lives. The words we speak and how we intone and direct our
language have a large effect on our friends, family and the community in
our lives. When we praise, honor, are honest and respect people with our
words we build bonds and alliances that help the community to function more
harmoniously. These positive connections establish a healthier sense of
self and bring greater joy to our lives.
Stilling
the Mind
On a deeper
level, we communicate volumes through our body language when we move through
the world. How we hold ourselves, sit, stand, move our eyes and head influences
and affects our connection with others. If we are nervous or overwhelmed,
we may fidget with our hands, scratch ourselves, purse our lips and hold
in our stomachs. These are all ways in which we act and react to protect
ourselves or deal with an uncomfortable situation. Over time if we constrict
ourselves too much, we develop tension in our eyes, face, jaw, throat,
back and chest. These constrictions can eventually lead to health problems
and a decrease in the quality of our life.
In Hinduism, yoga and meditation are seen as ways to tame the mind and
bring one to a sense of stillness. In the yoga-sutra of Patanjali, yoga
is defined as the restriction (nirodha) of fluctuations of consciousness
(citta). These fluctuations of consciousness can lead to a variety of
mental tensions and worries that express as physical symptoms, pains and
aches. To work with these body pains, ancient Hindus developed the physical
limb of yoga known as hatha yoga. Through practicing a series of postures
(asanas) the student helps relax and tune his or her body and prepare
it for the deeper work of meditation. Through meditation our mind can
join the body in stillness and focus its energy on greater awareness and
realization. Ultimately the goal of meditation is enlightenment, but for
most of us, a little peace and tranquility is a nice outcome.
Meditation
This Aquarian
Full Moon presents a wonderful opportunity for working with the mental
realm and relaxing the mind through meditation. This ancient practice
scares off some people because they think it requires tremendous discipline.
It actually can be quite easy. Simply fold your legs on a comfortable
pillow and maintain an erect posture with your spine. Then begin to slowly
deepen your breath. Keep your attention focussed on the inhalation and
exhalation of air. Try to increase the length and depth with each breath.
As thoughts arise, don't place judgment on them but simply allow them
to surface and then release. If you feel yourself getting caught up in
a string of thoughts, gently return to watching and observing your breath.
After about 20 minutes you should be completely relaxed. Regular practice
of meditation brings a steadiness of mind and disposition, as well as
greater joy and equilibrium in day-to-day life.
Lightning
Fast Change
During this
Aquarian Full Moon there is an opening to create a revolution in the way
we think and perceive our lives. Aquarius is connected with lightning
fast energy and intuition. Some say that achieving enlightenment is akin
to a lightning bolt strike. It is sudden and brings lasting change. These
swift shifts in consciousness can radically transform our previous notions
and concepts in life. These almost electrical changes can unbalance us
and it is important to stay grounded during the Aquarian Moon. Aquarius
is associated with the nervous system in medical astrology and this could
be a particularly sensitive area at this time of the year. Try to eat
whole foods such as legumes, brown rice, leafy greens and slightly salty
meals to stay centered and healthy. Also, avoid stimulants in the form
of coffee, tea, chocolate and white sugar if the Moon makes you feel ungrounded.
This will also help if you are incorporating any swift changes in perception
and consciousness during this time. Good health to you!
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