Full Moon at 14:26 eastern time on August 19, 2024 in 3°03 sidereal Aquarius in Dhanishtha: Alignment/Flow

The Full Moon is in the nakshatra Dhanishtha, the “star of symphony” whose names translates as abundance, swift and rich. Its ruling planets, Mars and Saturn, are goal-driven and action-oriented, each wanting to be useful and move forward. But they differ energetically: Mars leaps into motion, sometimes recklessly and without a plan, operating on excitement and instinct, while Saturn moves slowly and deliberately, preferring a risk-free well thought out plan. When they come together like they do in this Full Moon, they have the chance to work synergistically, supporting us to advance efficiently, with purpose and direction.

This Full Moon sits with Saturn retrograde, amplifying the reflective nature of Dhanishtha, and offering us a chance to look deeper into areas of life asking for structural changes, and areas that may require more patience and resilience: 

•What parts of our daily routine are supportive of sustained health and happiness? 

•What feels to be in the rhythm and flow? 

•What feels prohibitive? 

•What plans need adjusting? 

•What’s going to take more time?

Dhanishtha’s symbolism and deities offer insight into the beauty of this Moon. The symbols of the flute and drum suggest we’re in moment where we can align our actions with our inner flow, creating progress through well-orchestrated efforts. They also highlight this sign’s strong connection to music and rhythm, reminding us of the importance of choosing wisely the “notes” we put out into the world. Our prana (our breath and voice) has immense power and the ability to travel far and wide. Dhanishtha does well abroad, so expansive undertakings are supported by this Moon. 

From a spiritual perspective, the flute is symbolic of the shell of our bodies that gets filled with prana (the breath/vital life force) waiting to “become music”… of the central channel (sushumna nadi) where the kundalini arises… of the 7 notes connecting to the 7 chakras. The rhythm of the drum is said to connect heaven and earth…is a guide during ceremonies for spirit and ancestors to enter and uplift… is proven to have the power to move trauma out of our systems… and whose vibration helps to remove blockages, transcend worry and time, and bring us into the present moment.

Dhanishtha’s ruling deities, the 8 Vasus, inspire the following qualities in this kind and charitable Full Moon sign: musical skill, confidence, stability, reliability, hard work, steady energy, intelligence, and empathy. 

Some things to consider:

🥁Is the rhythm of your day supporting you?

🥁Do you believe your voice has power?

🥁Are you being patient and persistent? 

🥁Are your efforts in harmony with your values?

🥁What is calling your attention? Does it feel elevated in purpose? Is it accessible? Does it flow with who you are and where you’re going? (Remember Saturn’s simplicity and Mars’ ability to take action.)

Supportive activities:

As this Full Moon is ruled by very embodied planets, it’s helpful to utilize the body for healing and manifestation. Consider sound therapy and rhythm to help “move the issues through the tissues” (as Dr. Lad, my Ayurvedic mentor, says). Dance, listening to harmonious music, dry brushing, lymphatic massage, HIIT, jumping, yoga (like Uttanasana/Standing Forward Bend), music, kirtan, drum circles, tuning forks, gong baths are all excellent expressions.

 :::PEACE:::