The New Moon will be in the area of the sky known as Ardra Nakshatra, a brilliant star in the constellation of Orion called Betelguese. In Vedic Astrology, this star is said to bring storms and is symbolized by a teardrop. From Ardra’s starry heights, Rudra the destroyer (a form of Lord Shiva) cries down teardrops upon us like rain in a thunderstorm. Rudra is called the howler and it is said that one can hear his cry in the howl of a storm as it approaches. Rudra’s stormy dance shakes the establishment, and levels old belief systems, ultimately dissolving what is outlived and poisonous to us. Though not smooth and easy, this New Moon offers a dramatic liberation from the past.
However take heed, for Ardra is notorious for drumming up inter-generational relationship storms – especially issues between father and son and mother and daughter. Consider how others may feel excluded or unappreciated at this time, particularly within close communities and families. This is a lunar cycle that offers extraordinary insight and opportunity for healing old relationship and family wounds.
It is important to take extra care of our minds in the upcoming days. Ardra tends to cause heightened irritability and this can feel quite turbulent to more sensitive individuals. How do you process though resentment, anger and sadness?
If possible, take time for self-care and healing practices and avoid harsh situations and isolation. Practicing mindfulness-based meditation will be especially soothing at this time, as well as taking peaceful walks in natural settings.
Deep self-understanding and insight may be gained through carefully observing ourselves and others during this lunar cycle. Increased by a powerful influence from spiritual Ketu, this New Moon holds the potential to dramatically improve our lives by helping us to move through grief and release the past. Ardra’s unruly storm releases tension and cleans the atmosphere of our hearts, moistens the earth so new growth can sprout, and opens us to a fresh new start.
*To fully understand how these astrological influences affect you on a personal level, book a one-on-one Vedic Astrology Reading with me here.