Saturday, August 30, 2008

Jupiter Signs & Luck : Leo

Jupiter in Leo individuals attract the most good fortune when they express magnanimity, are generous with others, inspire confidence in those around them, conduct themselves with dignity and sincerity, and avoid the pitfall of excessive egotism. Prosperous areas are creative ones, entertainment, children, and recreation.
As a Fire sign Jupiter, you identify strongly with your own opinions, beliefs, and perceptions, and you may take it quite personally if others disagree with them! You make your own opportunities, and you are at your best when you are thinking in big terms, taking calculated risks, and displaying confidence.
Better times of any year for you to realize your goals include when the Sun is in your Jupiter sign, Leo, and when the Sun is in fellow Fire Signs, Aries and Sagittarius.
Jupiter in Leo gives you the opportunity to develop a dignified, honest, self- confident, optimistic and generous nature, with strong leadership qualities. Honor, social status and prestige are likely - this is necessary experience to reinforce your ego, giving you the feeling of self-worth and social importance. These qualities and experiences are required for your social integration and personality expansion. Your duty is to inspire, invigorate and lead others. This could be in fields such as politics, religion, counseling, moral development, philosophy or higher education.

Friday, August 29, 2008

Jupiter Signs & Luck: Leo

Jupiter in Leo individuals attract the most good fortune when they express magnanimity, are generous with others, inspire confidence in those around them, conduct themselves with dignity and sincerity, and avoid the pitfall of excessive egotism. Prosperous areas are creative ones, entertainment, children, and recreation.
As a Fire sign Jupiter, you identify strongly with your own opinions, beliefs, and perceptions, and you may take it quite personally if others disagree with them! You make your own opportunities, and you are at your best when you are thinking in big terms, taking calculated risks, and displaying confidence.
Better times of any year for you to realize your goals include when the Sun is in your Jupiter sign, Leo, and when the Sun is in fellow Fire Signs, Aries and Sagittarius.
Jupiter in Leo gives you the opportunity to develop a dignified, honest, self- confident, optimistic and generous nature, with strong leadership qualities. Honor, social status and prestige are likely - this is necessary experience to reinforce your ego, giving you the feeling of self-worth and social importance. These qualities and experiences are required for your social integration and personality expansion. Your duty is to inspire, invigorate and lead others. This could be in fields such as politics, religion, counseling, moral development, philosophy or higher education.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Jupiter Signs & Luck : Cancer

Jupiter in Cancer individuals attract the most good fortune when they are sympathetic, charitable, use their powers to save and accumulate, and comfort others. Real estate and the food industry can be prosperous avenues.
As a Water sign Jupiter, you have a strong belief in a higher power. You are most able to attract luck and rich life experiences to you through your intuition, imagination, and compassion. Helping those in need boosts your own morale.
Better times of any year for you to realize your goals include when the Sun is in your Jupiter sign, Cancer, and when the Sun is in fellow Water signs, Scorpio and Pisces.
Jupiter in Cancer gives you the opportunity to develop a kind, loving, sensitive and paternal nature, capable of sympathy and understanding. These qualities are necessary in order to expand your personality and life experiences. Your duty is to nourish, protect and instill kindness, moral principles and a love of knowledge into receptive minds. You will find happiness though a secure, friendly, prosperous and comfortable home environment. It is possible that you inherit a large estate or receive money and help from your parents.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Jupiter Signs & Luck : Gemini

Jupiter in Gemini individuals attract the most good fortune when they use their wit and ingeniousness, are versatile, sociable, curious, and put others at ease with friendliness and sincere curiosity.
As an Air sign Jupiter, you are mentally adventurous, ready and willing to learn, into "mind expansion", and less attached to your values than others because you are generally quite impartial and open-minded. You are able to see many sides to an argument.
Better times of any year for you to realize your goals include when the Sun is in the sign of your Jupiter, Gemini, and when the Sun is in fellow Air signs, Libra and Aquarius.
Jupiter in Gemini gives you the opportunity to study and intellectually comprehend subjects such as religion, law, philosophy and other higher educational subjects. This quality is necessary in order to expand your personality and life experience. Your wide range of mental interests will attract many friends who help to broaden your scope of knowledge, leading you into new and unusual subjects. Success is achieved by communicating such knowledge to others - writing, teaching and lecturing. A second string income may come though business interests related to publishing, travel, broadcasting and telecommunications.

Monday, August 25, 2008

Jupiter Signs & Luck : Taurus

Jupiter in Taurus individuals attract the most good fortune when they are charitable, generous but discriminating, and patient. Watch for over-indulgence.
As an Earth sign Jupiter, you are a practical realist who needs to visualize results in order to feel motivated to achieve them. You are a "doer" who is not easily lured by get rich quick schemes! You are not very much of a risk taker. You need direction, clear goals, and strong plans, and you value tangible results.
Better times of any year for you to realize your goals include when the Sun is in your Jupiter sign, Taurus, and when the Sun is in fellow Earth signs, Virgo and Capricorn.
Jupiter in Taurus brings you the opportunity to develop practical ability for dealing with money and other material resources that need to be wisely used. This quality is necessary in order to expand your personality and life experience. You should attract success, wealth and a luxurious life style but there is an obligation to use such wealth in a positive and socially beneficent manner - through good business ability, sound investment, prudent spending and generosity.

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Jupiter Signs & Luck

Jupiter's position by sign in the natal chart (that is, the sign that Jupiter occupies in the birth chart) reveals how we express our generosity and tolerance. It shows how we go about trusting
others and improving our lives. The qualities of the sign are necessary in order to expand our personality and life experience.
Jupiter in Aries individuals attract the most good fortune when they take the lead, initiate, inspire others, and demonstrate enthusiasm and courage. Prosperous areas are ones that
allow them to head and lead, and to innovate.
Jupiter in Aries brings you the opportunity to develop an adventurous spirit, moral leadership ability, initiative, self-sufficiency and a talent for positive action relating to education, philosophy or religion. These qualities are necessary in order to expand your personality and life experience. Endowed with a pioneering instinct, courage and much physical energy you may embark on a personal quest for knowledge, understanding and experience that will ultimately lead you to a new and better way of life. You have the ability to carve out your own place in society.

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Virgo - August 23 - September 22

Virgo is the sixth Sign of the Zodiac, to be exact, and that's the way Virgos like it: exacting.
Those born under this Sign are forever the butt of jokes for being so picky and critical (and they can be), but their 'attention to detail' is for a reason: to help others. Virgos, more than any other Sign, were born to serve, and it gives them great joy. They are also tailor-made for the job, since they are industrious, methodical and efficient. The sense of duty borne by these folks is considerable, and it ensures that they will always work for the greater good.
Virgo is represented in modern Astrology by the Virgin, although this association should not be taken literally. Rather, Virgos tend to take on some of the qualities of a Virgin, things like modesty and humanity. Virgins are an asset in the workplace as they can be counted on to get things right the first time, every time -- and no detail will be overlooked.
Financial prospects in 2008
There could be some worrisome financial hang-ups occasionally, but nothing too serious and nothing that you can't handle. Money comes in only by dint of hard-work and not by luck; thankfully, there is no ill-luck factor to siphon off your resources also! Avoid speculative activities and investing in risky ventures (a Virgo won't do that; still a word of caution will not be out of place). Ancestral property matters can be resolved amicably this year. Some of you stand a good chance to gain from royalties, estates, or other such ancestral sources.
Career prospects in 2008
You will do well if you pay more attention to your job and are extra-cautious in all matters..Saturn in you sign highlights the need to work hard and shoulder more responsibilities than usual. Think of additional work as opportunity given to prove your mettle and you will do just fine. Positively, you have good chance to get favourable postings, prestigious assignments, and the chance to indulge in service to others during the course of your official routines.
Romantic possibilities, social relationships, etc in 2008
Many of you will finally make up your minds to tie the nuptial knot this year. This is a good year for entering into new long-term relationships. Interesting possibilities are foreseen for the single natives of this sign. Married natives looking forward to go the family-way stand good chance of conceiving this year. There will be a good opportunity to come into contact with compatible persons in the course of your official duties/ travels. Though your social calendar cannot be termed as "hectic and happening", it is expected to be "highly satisfying.".
Health in 2008
Elderly natives of this sign might suffer from bouts of absent-mindedness (some may even go missing for a short time much to the anxiety of other family members; but of course, they will return), giddiness, and arthritic pains. All natives should take special efforts to maintain regular dietary and sleep routines. Health picture will be normal if you avoid overstraining yourself.

Friday, August 22, 2008

Palmistry : The Mount of Venus and the Thumb

There are a number of mounts in different positions of the palm, and these are associated with planets.
The Mount of Venus is of particular interest to those looking for indicators of love in the palm. This mount is found beside the thumb and within the curved Life Line. Generally, fleshiness here indicates a love of pleasure. A fleshy and firm Mount of Venus indicates a strongly sexual nature, and a flabby mount here shows a low level of sexual vitality.
Prominent horizontal lines on the Mount of Venus are thought to indicate a person with powerful charm over lovers. Plenty of fine lines going in different directions on this mount (often looking like a grid) suggests a person who is quite complex in the area of love. A changeable, worrisome character may frustrate lovers. In general, lots of fine lines here indicate a person who is easily influenced by outside forces. This person may be easy to dupe by partners. A triangle on this mount is thought to indicate a person who may have extramarital affairs, and a crescent shape (moon) here suggests one who has powerful seductive powers.
The Thumb
How flexible is the thumb? The flexibility of the thumb is thought to measure how adaptable a person is. The more flexible the thumb, the more easy-going the character is. A lack of flexibility suggests an obstinate person.
Does the thumb have a "waist"? If the thumb narrows in the base phalange of the thumb, the person is thought to employ tact and diplomacy in his or her relations with others.
Some consider the relative length of the thumb as an indicator of faithfulness. Longer thumbs are thought to indicate stronger characters who are faithful to others and to themselves.

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Planetary rulers of the days of the week

The ancient Babylonians chose to organize their calendar around 7 days of the week, and each day corresponds to one of the seven "planets" visible to the naked eye.
Monday (lundi in French) is ruled by the Moon. "Monday's child is fair of face" might refer to the sensitivity and youthfulness associated with the Moon.
Tuesday (mardi in French) is ruled by Mars. "Tuesday's child is full of grace" might be more aptly interpreted as full of energy and movement.
Wednesday (mercredi in French) is ruled by Mercury. "Wednesday's child is full of woe" might be interpreted as a person who worries or thinks too much.
Thursday (jeudi in French) is ruled by Jupiter. "Thursday's child has far to go" might thus be interpreted as a person who will travel and learn.
Friday (vendredi in French) is ruled by Venus. "Friday's child is loving and giving" might refer to the Venus nature, that is, a person who is loving and receptive to love.
Saturday (samedi in French) is ruled by Saturn. "Saturday's child works hard for a living" thus might refer to the Saturnine nature which is rather serious and responsible.
Sunday (dimanche in French) is ruled by the Sun. "But the child born on the Sabbath Day is fair and wise and good and gay" might refer to the magnanimous Sun nature.
Astrologers generally pay more attention to the ruling planets in a natal chart. That is, the planet that rules the sign on your Ascendant and the planet that rules the sign of your Sun.

For example, if your Ascendant is Aries, Mars is the ruling planet of your Ascendant since Mars is the natural ruler of Aries. If your Sun is in Taurus, then Venus is your Sun's ruling planet since Venus is the natural ruler of Taurus.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Palmistry: The Lines on the Palm

The palm generally consists of the Major Lines, Secondary Lines, and Minor Lines.
A palm with numerous fine lines in addition to the Major Lines indicates a rather complex, sensitive personality that is especially vulnerable to outside influences and worries. In general, the fewer the lines, the more straightforward a person is. These people live their lives in a more direct and simple manner.
The Major Lines:
Generally, there are three prominent lines on a palm. These are the Major Lines.
In the palm at right, the top horizontal line ending at point A is the Heart Line. This line indicates the affections, so it is of particular interest to those reading a palm for love indicators. The higher this line is, the more passionate, and oftentimes jealous the person is. A heart line that goes right across the hand suggests a person who is very controlled emotionally. A heart line that curves upward towards the Jupiter finger (the index finger) indicates a warm-hearted, reasonable, and affectionate nature in relationships. Crosses and breaks on the Heart line suggest periods of sadness and sorrow in love.
The middle horizontal line at point B is the Head Line. This line indicates the type of intelligence a person possesses. The space between the beginning of the Head Line and the beginning of the Life Line, if any, indicates the level of cautiousness a person possesses. When these lines are joined at the beginning, the person has a rather cautious, and sometimes fearful, nature. The further apart, the more confident, risk-taking individual.
The curved line that generally swoops from near the base of the palm to the point between the thumb and first finger at point C is the Life Line. In terms of relationships, a Life line that is wide, leaving plenty of room for the Mount of Venus, is indicative of a person with an expansive and giving nature in love. The closer the Life line is to the thumb, the less generous a person is with his/her energy and time.
An interesting secondary line concerning relationships is called the Line of Attachment. Some call these lines Marriage Lines. These lines appear just above the heart line (in our diagram, just above point A). Light, fine horizontal lines found here are thought to indicate affairs that are not deep commitments. One long, clear line suggests a long-standing and happy marriage or commitment. When there is more than one long, deep line, the lower one is thought to describe the earlier relationship in the person's life.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Renew, Rejoice and Rejuvenate, on Krishna's Birthday - Aug 24

Krishna is an epitome of perfection. He symbolizes selfless love, dharma, friendship and kindness. Ever playful, he shines like a sparkling diamond, inducing hope amongst human beings. His birthday is a special day and is celebrated with fervour and gaiety all over India. This is also one special festival which is very popular among children.
The birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated as Janmashtami. In South India, it is celebrated as Krishnashtami or Krishna Jayanthi. Lord Krishna is the 9th incarnation of Lord Vishnu and was born during the Dwaapara Yuga (the iron age) that is 5000 years ago. During that time, the world was ruled by evil forces or adharma. Hence the divine incarnation had to take place in order to bring in righteousness in the world.
Lord Krishna was born on the 8th day (Ashtami) of the waning Moon in the Shravana month when the ruling star (nakshatra) of the day was Rohini. Lord Krishna's arrival signifies the elimination of demonic evil forces like angst and anxieties, apprehensions, fear, doubts within us. When the devotee sincerely prays to krishna, the divine appears in you and removes all the darkness and rays of everlasting hope flows in and divine renewal takes over.
During the Janmashtami day people undergo fasting and offer prayers to Lord Krishna during the evening and then break their fast. This fasting is done to terminate or control the activity of the senses and in turn this helps in the manifestation of the God as one's mind is constantly in the divine's thought.
Children are dear to Lord Krishna. Any help to children on this special day will help you to gain his blessings immensely. In particular, donating clothes to poor and needy children will get you the blessings of Krishna.
Pal Payasa Neivedhiyam - Offering of Milk Porridge to the Lord as prasad. This offering is done for all the incarnations of Lord Vishnu in order to make more money, attain a royal status and overcome the attacks of the demons)
Thirumudi Mala - This offering is done in order to regain the lost status and wealth and for Kariya Siddhi.
Vennai Neivedhiyam Vennai (butter) - is the most favorite dish of Lord Krishna. This offering is done in order to gain the divine blessings of the Lord.
Pattu Charthal - A yellow silk cloth is offered to Lord Krishna. This remedy gives great protection in all walks of life including safe guarding finances, wealth, health, reputation etc.

Monday, August 18, 2008

Palmistry: The Shape of the Hand

There are four general shapes of the hand, and these are related to the four elements of Air, Earth, Fire, and Water:
When considering the length of the palm:
When the vertical and horizontal measurements of the palm are approximately equal, it is considered a square palm.
A long palm is when its vertical measurement is longer than the horizontal measurement.
Fingers are considered long when the length of the middle finger is equal to or greater than three-quarters of the length (height) of the palm.
Fingers are considered short when the length of the middle finger is less than three-quarters of the length of the palm.
Air Hands are characterized by a square palm, long fingers, and thin, clear lines. These are the hands of intellectual and sociable people. They are often restless and in need of change and stimulation, mostly of the mental kind. As lovers, these people look for mental rapport above all else.
Earth Hands are characterized by a square palm, short fingers, strong or thick skin, and deep, clear, and straight lines. These are the hands of practical, down-to-earth people with strong vitality. They often have a strong connection to nature and the outdoors. As lovers, they are generally quite dependable and straightforward.
Fire Hands are characterized by long palms, short fingers, plentiful and prominent lines, and firm, warm skin. These are the hands of risk-takers and action-oriented people. As lovers, they are positive and confident, willing to take the lead.
Water Hands are characterized by long palms, long fingers, plenty of fine lines that are not always clear, and soft, damp skin. These hands indicate a creative, emotional person. As lovers, they are sensitive, vulnerable, a little naive, and focused on caring and being cared for.

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Palmistry

Which Hand Should You Read?
One of the first questions people ask concerning palm reading is: Which hand do you look at? The answer is: Both, and It depends.
Students of palmistry distinguish between the active and passive hand. A right-handed person's active hand will be his or her right hand; and the left hand is considered the passive hand. Similarly, a left-handed person's active hand is the left hand; and his or her passive hand is the right hand.
Generally, the passive hand is read for inherited characteristics and potential.
Look to the active hand for changes to these inherited traits.
As a general rule, when the lines and markings on the active and passive hands are quite different, it shows a person who has actively worked toward self-development.
The Size of the Hand :
Remember to consider the size of the hand relative to the size of the body.
Generally, a large hand suggests a person who spends more time thinking than acting. A person with a relatively small hand is thought to be more active, spending less time thinking about what to do.

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Some facts about Astrology

  • A search for astrology on google.com brings up nearly 2 million websites.
  • The Zodiac was originally a natural agricultural calendar that dated the sowing of crops, harvesting, etc. by the rising and setting of the stars (especially Sirius), and the Pleiades or other recognisable constellations.
  • The words, astrology and horoscope are the most searched topics on the Internet.
  • Seventy-five per cent of astrology readers are women.
  • There are 6,000-8,000 professional astrologers in the United States.
  • German astrologer, Frau Elsbeth Ebertin, was given Hitler's birth chart by a female fan in 1924. She accurately predicted that he would become Fuhrer.
  • Adolf Hitler is thought to have used an astrologer throughout the Second World War.
  • The practice of astrocartography looks at how you are affected by your geographical location. It is believed that, by comparing your birth chart to different areas in the world, the area where you will be most successful and happy can be determined.
  • Astrology is thought to be both a science and an art. It claims scientific status because it requires mathematics and an understanding of Astronomy. It is an art because interpretation is necessary to bring the different aspects together and formulate an idea of the individual's character traits and tendencies.
  • The Zodiac was originally a natural agricultural calendar that dated the sowing of crops, harvesting, etc. by the rising and setting of the stars (especially Sirius), and the Pleiades or other recognisable constellations.
  • Science presents many arguments against astrology. It is argued that your genetic characteristics are developed from conception and not birth. Astrologers, according to scientists, ignore matters such as the gravitational force of non-solar bodies e.g: asteroids and comets, the motion of the sun in respect to other stars and the wobble in the earth's rotation axis, which has by now shifted the sun signs by 1 or 2 constellations.

Friday, August 15, 2008

What is Jyotish, Vedic Astrology?

Jyotish is the most time-tested system of astrology in the world. The Sanskrit word is rooted in "jyoti" which means light, as the light of knowledge. Jyotish signifies the "science of light". In western countries, Jyotish is often referred to as Vedic, Indian, or Hindu astrology. Jyotish knowledge can be traced back to the Vedic civilization in northern Bharat (also known as India). Indeed, Jyotish is a part of the vedic sciptures -- many manuscripts and translations of which are available.
We use the sidereal (according to the stars) positions of the planets against the backdrop of the relatively-fixed stars in Jyotish -- just as one "sees them in the sky", as astronomers do, and as do more than 90 per cent of astrologers in the world.
This is the most important difference between Vedic and tropical astrology. Tropical astrologers base their zodiac on the equinoxes instead. The result is that the positions of the planets they calculate continues to change with respect to the stars.
The arithmetical difference between planetary positions calculated sidereally and tropically is a value for what is called the precession of the equinoxes, or the Ayanaunsh. Today, this difference is 23 degrees 49 minutes and 17 seconds according to the official government calculation.
Planetary positions in the sidereal and tropical systems coincide approximately every 26,000 years, the last such occasion being about the beginning of the Christian era.
In Jyotish, the positions of the planets and other significant points are calculated with respect to a person's, or event's, birth data. Essentially, these are the time, date and place of birth. The results are then used to calculate numerous charts and tables -- about a hundred in all. It is the job of the astrologer to study them simultaneously and derive useful information based on the rules of interpretation created by our ancient sage-scientists. This study of the charts, a synthesis of information, can typically take about 10-15 hours and includes a decision about what remedial actions can be taken to enhance the person's life -- spiritually and materially.

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Uplift your health and emotions, this lunar eclipse-aug 17

In yet another celestial event this month, an eclipse of the Moon would occur on August 17 and would be visible in the country from 1.06 am to 4.14 am. The Lunar eclipse will be visible in India, throughout most of Asia, South America, Europe and Australia on August 17. Though the eclipse would be partial, over 80 per cent of the Moon's diameter would be covered by the darker shadow of the Earth at the time of the eclipse.
Stars that are afflicted due to the occurrence of the Lunar Eclipse are Mrigashira, Chitra, Dhanista, Shravana, Rohini, Hasta, Shatabhisha, Arudra and Swathi. People born under these birth stars should perform remedies on this day. Also people born under the Moon sign of Capricorn should perform remedies. People born on Saturdays and Sundays should also perform the remedies for their birth stars. The significance of performing these remedies is that people who are afflicted by the eclipse may suffer from health problems. Performance of these remedies can alleviate the negative influence.
It is important for people born under the stars mentioned above to perform archana to the Nakshatra Lingas consecrated at the famous temple in Thiruvotriyur. Offering of archanas and feeding poor people would ward off the maladies that could trouble people born under the afflicted stars.
Generally it is important for every one to perform Tarpan. This Lunar Eclipse is very powerful and it is recommended to perform Tarpan on both Saturday August 16th and Sunday August 17th. Performing tarpan for ancestors on Saturday helps you to earn good Karma as Saturn Karma. Moreover the Full Moon also falls on Saturday and it is the Day of Lunar eclipse. As per the Vedas, tarpan should be perfomed after the eclipses in order to appease the souls as it is during the Eclipse time these souls come to the earthplane.

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Two moons on 27th August


Planet Mars will be the brightest in the night sky starting August. It will look as large as the full moon to the naked eye.

This will cultivate on Aug. 27 when Mars comes within 34.65M miles off earth. Be sure to watch the sky on Aug. 27 12:30 am.

It will look like the earth has 2 moons. The next time Mars may come this close is in 2287.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Lucky Stone / Gems : Hessonite

It is associated with planet Rahu. It should be worn after careful analysis of the horoscope chart otherwise it should not be worn. If it suits a person he can amass great wealth. It should be worn in panchadhatu (amalgam of five metals) or Gold or Silver.
It is a type of garnet. In best qualities it is of a reddish-orange-honey color. Honey color stones are also very effective. It is called as "gomedak" or "gomed".
The use of this stone increases creativity and good use of the imagination. It may also serve to increase the level of self-confidence and reduce the propensity to be fearful. It can also increase the awareness of a person’s subtle senses and increase ambition, which may also be for spiritual advancement.
Physically, it is said to help nervous disorders and such degenerative diseases as cancer. It may improve immune functions and counteract the harmful effects of radiation. Hessonite is said to help avert disasters and to protect against evil spirits. Supposedly it can prevent or avert insanity and protect from sudden misfortunes. It also has a reputation for giving great abilities in the sciences.Thosewho are working in Abroad or those who want to go Abroad this is the best Gem to fulfill their dreams.
Great care must be taken before wearing hessonite. It can cause many problems to become magnified in persons who wear it without proper prescription. Its source countries are Africa, Burma and Sri Lanka.

Saturday, August 9, 2008

Lucky Stone / Gems : Emerald

It is connected with planet Mercury. The metal it is associated with is gold. It rules over central nervous system, lungs and skin. It can be worn by those whose ascendant is Taurus, Gemini, Leo and Virgo. It is to be worn in little finger.
Emerald jewelry is said to strengthen the nerves and, on the physical side, to purify the blood. Emeralds increase the flow of positive life-energy and are used by healers to further increase their own abilities to heal the body and mind. Like hessonite and ruby rings, emerald rings and pendants should be designed so the gem is in contact with the body.
Emerald is also recommended for strengthening the planet Mercury, which increases the powers of communication. Obviously this is important and necessary for business people and those in the various fields of communication, be they writers, speakers, or entertainers. Most people would further agree that our quality of communication is 90% of the determination to succeed in whatever endeavor we may wish to undertake.
Emeralds generally have many imperfections and most jewelers would say that these flaws insure a "natural" stone. For healing purposes even emeralds should be fairly "clear" to the eye. Some imperfections are not harmful nor impede the stone’s vibration and an experienced planetary gemologist knows which are or aren’t permissible.
Sources of emerald are South America, most notably Colombia and Brazil, Africa (Zambian and Tanzanian are best), India, Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Egypt and Russia.
Green tourmaline is the best substitute for emerald although the potency is somewhat lesser than the primary stone emerald

Friday, August 8, 2008

Varalakshmi Pooja

In the Hindu pantheon of Gods and Goddesses, Lakshmi occupies a key position as a giver of wealth and happiness to human beings. One of the most important pooja performed during this month for Goddess Lakshmi is called as Varalakshmi Pooja. Varalakshmi is considered to represent all Lakshmi's and hence offering prayers to her could be very beneficial to you. Generally this day falls on the Friday of the Shukla paksha(Waxing Moon) of Shravana month each year. However this year, Varalakshmi Pooja will be performed on 15th August 2008.
It is believed that the by performing this pooja you are blessed with true wealth which not only includes money but all aspects which enrich human life. Varalakshmi blesses you with monetary benefits(Dhanam), food and grains(Dhanyam), good health(Arokya), wealth and property(Sampath), virtuous offsprings (Santhanam) and long life for your husband (Deerka Sumangali Bakkyam).
It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi emerged from the ocean of milk during this day. As the name Varalakshmi goes by, it is interpreted in two different ways. The first interpretation is that Vara means boon and Varalakshmi means Goddess Lakshmi who grants the boons. The second interpretation is that Goddess Lakshmi is welcomed and received inside the houses with great honor to bless and grant boons.
Legend behind Varalakshmi Pooja:
It is said that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati played a game of dice. Lord Shiva kept claiming to have won. But Parvati knew otherwise. There arose a dispute between the two with regard to the winner. But she called a Gana, Chitramani to mediate and settle the matter.
Chitramani confirmed that Lord Shiva won the game. Goddess Parvati got angry with the verdict and she accused Chitramani of lying. Lord Shiva knew that Chitramani did not lie but had told the truth. Goddess Parvati was not convinced and she cursed Chitramani, to suffer from leprosy and be born on the earthplane as a lepor.
When Lord Siva convinced Goddess Parvati, she granted him the boon that if Gana, Chitramani was able to participate or perform the Varalakshmi Pooja, he would be cured from leprosy and would be relieved of the curse. Wandering a lot finally Chitramani was able to participate in the Varalakshmi pooja performed by a group of celestial angels. Thus he was cured of his leprosy. Since then the Varalakshmi Pooja has been performed every year.

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

The Full Moon

What happens at the full Moon?:
The Full Moon is a culmination, a peak, and many people notice a spike in exuberance and activity at this time. The Sun and Moon are in opposite signs, and the qualities of both signs in which they fall are lit up with a current running between them.
What are some ways to engage with the Full Moon?: If you've set intentions on the new Moon, the full Moon is the time for releasing them out to spirit. You might like to meditate on the new Moon intentions as the Moon grows brighter, adding power to them with your focus. The waxing Moon is a building up of energy, and a great time to cultivate something new in your life.
How does this work exactly?:
The key to working with planetary energies is understanding that you're a part of it all, too. As the Sun and Moon move through the signs, a forcefield of energy is cast down, engaging with your own unique astrological blueprint. In other words, "May the force be with you," and may you also Be with the force.
Staying intimately connected to this cosmic dance allows you to tune into subtle shifts and changes. Our intuitive selves experience these through dream images, spirit guidance, and soul yearnings. You go beyond awareness of your known self, so you can experience your spirit self and its possibilities.
What are intentions?: Intentions are like wishes you send out, but you've got to take an active part in making them happen. You can call it a prayer, too. Whether we know it or not, we all have intentions, sometimes unconcious, that shape our experience. When you set intentions consciously, it makes you more present to the moment, able to jump on opportunities, cultivate contacts, and recognize divine serendipity.
Preparing for the full Moon.: Each full Moon has a different intuitive feel, and any ritual you do could draw on the essence of the sign. As it approaches, you might gather photos, found objects, meaningful totems and place them with your intentions in a prominent place.
Time to Celebrate: The full Moon often casts an exuberant vibe, making it a great time to have a party. This also opens the door for meaningful people to step into your life. But keep in mind that it can be intense, too. There's a reason why more patrolmen are sent out on full Moons! Take time to honor yourself in some way for any steps you took since the new Moon.

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Maha Sankata Chaturthi

Humanity is faced with numerous obstacles every day. Right from the basic needs like food, education, shelter to other material needs like money, relationship, health it is a constant struggle. You are caught in a whirlpool from which recovery looks difficult. Only Lord Ganesha can break those obstacles and bring relief to you in all spheres of your life.
Lord Ganesha symbolizes highest intelligence and divinity. He has five hands which symbolizes Antakarana which include Mind, Intellect (Buddhi), Ego(Ahamakara) and Chitta. Along with these four, he possesses the true divine intelligence and can help humanity cross the ocean of life. For any material or spiritual pursuit, Lord Ganesha shares his blessings with his devotees who pray to him sincerely.
Maha Sankata Chaturthi which falls on Aug 20 is a very auspicious day to offer prayers, rituals to Lord Ganesha. It is said that breaking coconuts on this day will shatter your obstacles to smithereens.
Performing Ganesha Homas on Maha Sankata Chaturthi can be very good for general prosperity and for gaining the will power to take on life's challenges. This is done by fasting from early morning and then breaking the fast in the evening/ night after sighting the Moon's crescent. You can chant simple mantras on Lord Ganesha as per your convenience throughout the day.

Monday, August 4, 2008

How much of free will do we really have in our lives?

According to the science of Spirituality, on an average in the present era 65% of our lives are ruled by destiny and 35% by wilful action (freedom to choose). Destiny is that part of our life where we have no control over life’s situations. Wilful action is that part of our life over which we have control.
Astrology can only perceive to some extent what is in one’s destiny and how a person will be likely to use his wilful action based on his basic nature. Ordinarily one cannot dodge destiny even if one knew it. However since destiny is inherently a spiritual factor it can be overcome by spiritual means only, that is by spiritual practice or the grace of a Guru (i.e. a spiritual master above the spiritual level of 70%).
What is the benefit to us if we know the severity of our destiny?
On knowing the severity of our destiny, we can do a corresponding amount of spiritual practice to overcome it completely or be insulated from it. In the case of severe destiny, at least we can be forewarned and thus can be forearmed and mentally prepared. Please refer to the diagram below on the type of destiny and the means to overcome it.

Sunday, August 3, 2008

Lucky Stone / Gems : Ruby

It is connected with planet Sun. The metal with which it associates is gold. It rules over eyes and bone system in our body. It can be worn by those whose ascendant sign is Aries, Scorpio and Sagittarius. It should be worn in the ring finger.
One’s courage and will power may be increased by wearing ruby, and it will increase vitality and the ability to perceive things in a true and correct manner. It can help in developing spiritual insight, or looking within toward spiritual realization.
On the physical side, it may strengthen the heart and help digestion and metabolism. It should be noted that rubies are so powerful that if worn by the wrong person they may cause physical or mental imbalances in the categories governed by the Sun. Red tourmaline, called rubellite, or red spinel may be substituted for ruby and will give the same effects, although with somewhat less strength.
Rubies range from deep red to other tones depending on occupation or effects desired. A teacher, intellectual, or priest should wear a ruby of a pinkish-red color. A ruler, administrator, or military officer should have a blood red color ruby. A merchant of any goods or produce, or one involved with banking or monetary instruments can wear a slightly pinkish-red to slightly orange-red color or can also wear the blood-red color. An artist, clerical person, or skilled or unskilled laborer would wear a ruby of a darker purple-red color.
The major sources of rubies are Thailand, Burma, Laos, Cambodia, India, Sri Lanka, Africa and Afghanistan.

Saturday, August 2, 2008

Astrology - Based on the person doing spiritual practice.

The only way to overcome destiny or be insulated from it is to do spiritual practice. This is because destiny which is a spiritual problem can only be overcome by a spiritual remedy. However the effect of spiritual practice (sadhana) and religious rituals done to overcome a problem where the root cause is spiritual in nature is not reflected in the chart.
Hence an astrological reading does not reflect the spiritual practice undertaken by the person.
For example, at birth if an astrologer detects an ancestor’s problem in the horoscope of a person and if the person does a ritual etc. then that defect is removed but the next astrologer will still read it the same way.
From this perspective, palmistry is superior to Astrology as the changes are reflected in the lines on the hands. As an average person does not do spiritual practice in the true sense of the word, he is not really impacted by this inherent shortcoming of Astrology.

Friday, August 1, 2008

2008 August 1st - total solar eclipse

This eclipse of the Sun is a northern hemisphere event. The total eclipse starts at sunrise in the extreme north of Canada. At first it moves to the east into the Arctic, skirting northern Greenland and passing north Scandinavia. As it moves north of Russia the path turns to the south east passing through Siberia to skirt western Mongolia and on into China where it ends at sunset north of Wuhan.
On Friday, 1st August 2008, a total solar eclipse of the Sun is visible from a narrow corridor that traverses half the Earth. The path of the Moon’s umbral shadow begins in Canada and extends across northern Greenland, the Arctic, central Russia, Mongolia, and finally China where it will end at sunset. The path of totality begins in northern Canada and ends in northern China. The instant of greatest eclipse occurs at 10:21:07 UT (latitude 65° 39'N, longitude 72° 18'E) when the axis of the Moon’s shadow passes closest to the centre of Earth. Totality reaches its maximum duration of 2min 27s. The above information was obtained from http://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov/OH/OH2008.html

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