New Moon Stillness Today 9/22 from Mark Kincaid

[Guest guest]

Lecture, Article Series: “Stillness”

Dear Friends & Subscribers:

Today, as we go through another " wonderful "

New Moon as my habit is to reflect on and be more still, this article

popped out.

Enjoy,

 

Mark Kincaid

 

Stillness

 

Today, as in many New Moons in the past, I find myself thinking about the

primary experience that often pops up. For me, ever since I’ve

started watching the Moon’s cycles, I've noticed my

Physiology. For months and months and now, years, I’ve

noticed my Physiology feels like curling up and hibernating during such

New Moon periods.

From the beginning of the Last Quarter of the Moon, up into the New Moon

day, my mind and body are experiencing some sort of stillness! For

years of course I didn’t pay attention to it. And for years, I

suffered. I felt estranged, listless, and unstable and after

learning a bit of Astrology; I noticed feeling even more like that

especially during New Moon times.

When I first started watching the Moon’s cycles it seemed for almost

the entire 2 weeks of the Waning Moon I felt rough. Then later I

began to notice that my body kind of wanted to curl up during these

times. Maybe, then, I thought, maybe I’m supposed to rest more

during this time. Watch the Moon, yourself for 2 or 3

months.

Your own unique patterns can come to you which are why I emphasize people

going through watching very closely yourself so you can find if

there’s a rhyme or reason for you too!

Once you find that there are unique times when you’re feeling more

inward or even rough, this would be a great time then to contemplate

“Stillness” and/or actively pursue becoming more

Silent!

That’s what I do, on New Moons then. Though now I find myself

doing the same even during Saturn moments. For example the Moon

collided with Saturn just the other day. During those 2 ½

days of the Moon going through Cancer there was a very distinct Saturnish

quality of pause. I’d learned from the past that not much good

gets transacted on such days when I try to do and strain, so I allowed

myself to be more still during these days as well.

Not only do I feel better by being more still, but I get more done by

doing less if that makes sense. When I write this I’m reminded

of the Yoga Principle which says:

“Do less to accomplish more.” This refers, of

course to one of the intrinsic benefits of meditation, which stimulates

the principle of doing less to accomplishing more. We all have some

sense of this in our lives. We’re trying to find

something. It’s around here somewhere, and yet, the harder we

try to remember where we’ve put it, or the harder we look the more

frustrated we seem to get and can’t find!

It often happens, then, the moment we put our mind from that intensity of

trying, maybe we start thinking about something else, and then, pop, that

thing gets remembered! “Oh, that’s where that

is?” Or, “Oh, that’s his name!”

Most people don’t reflect on what is going on, but this is a good

example of bringing more settled ness to the mind, in that very moment one

can fulfill one’s desires more easily. In other words,

we’re doing less and through that, accomplishing

more.

Another good example of this is in our daily rest cycle of sleep.

For many years, I literally hated going to sleep. I’d postpone

it and try and stay up as late as possible. Heck, every nite

I’d pretend to go to sleep, just so I could wake up and listen to my

parents listening to TV downstairs. There was this vent in my room

that must have snaked close to theirs because when it was quiet if I put

my ear near it, I could hear them listening to Johnny Carson at

night. I know it must have been late because he only came on after

10pm or 10:30.

That means as a young person needing more rest I was NOT getting

enough. In fact, I remember going to school tired every day and not

feeling like I was even awake till my 3rd class period or

so. I felt edgy, irritable, and very unstable. It was then a

great surprise when I finished my first meditation class during my first

year of college when the meditation teacher said: “Oh, by the

way rest is the basis of activity.” I was shocked to hear this

and upon reflecting realized I thought “Johnny Carson was the basis

of activity!”

 

Today, all these thoughts ramble around in my brain as I’m sitting

here, in the stillness of the New Moon. It’s been many months and years in which I’ve stopped

trying to do, and used these days to BE. I now, appreciate

whole heartily not only the Philosophy and importance of rest or silence

or stillness but also the importance of culturing more of that within.

 

Whenever you find yourself suffering any lack of inner settled ness or

peace, remember this: I could use more Silence! Unfortunately

we’re rarely taught the wisdom or utility of culturing inner

Stillness. As a result every day, slightly cheating the needs of our body

and minds, we feel more tired, and all manners of stressful situations

come to us.

In this chapter we’re going to reflect on all the important ways in

which Silence and Rest have an invaluable role in our daily life as well

as achieving the goals which we deem so very important. See,

it’s been a long haul for me too just because the Saturn Knowledge

and Wisdom of Silence was so sorely lacking in my own Astrology

chart. I find that now, in the charts of other people, that the more

compromised, negative or undeveloped Saturn is, the less they seem to

spontaneously take to or appreciate the role and value of silence and

resting.

How do we know if we need more Knowledge and Wisdom of Silence? If

we’re experiencing any of the negatives especially of Saturn, if

we’re unsettled, or if we’re agitated, anxious, worried, un

peaceful, un centered, or unhappy we might put some attention on this

great knowledge.

 

New

Moon and Saturn periods are great times to reflect on, appreciate and grow

within the strength and power of Saturn, or life

stillness.

 

Principle

1

Rest is the basis of Activity.

 

So few people understand that what we do the night before has really the

most to do with how well we get along and get accomplished the next

day. We normally think that Mars doing is the real key to

accomplishing and achieving. However, the rest before is the real

need.

This is very easy to prove. Don’t get enough rest for 3, 4

days in a row and then, see how you feel. Every manner of human

problem will come to one when you don’t get enough rest!

We’ll feel tired, irritable, nervous, be unclear and not function

very well. So, it shouldn’t be a surprise that by stimulating

this value of inner settled ness or rest, we automatically feel

better.

90% of my suggestions have to do with people getting more rest,

appreciating the role of it, or becoming more still and calm through such

things as meditation, yoga and breathing exercises. The principle is

the same. Stimulate more inner Silence

and then enjoy that, more in your life.

 

Principle

2

Nature Moves through Alternating Steps of Rest &

Activity

 

Once we understand the importance and roll of the inward stroke of rest,

we can then appreciate that at every moment, Nature herself is going

through alternating steps of rest and activity. Every night the

World rests. The next day is based on that. But, even during

the day, before we take any step forward, we first need to plant a resting

foot. First we plant a foot and then the next expansion foot can

move forward.

If we try to rush, or are uncoordinated in our integration of steps, we

move and step but maybe we trip or stumble because the sequence of these

two opposite values are not integrated enough. Think of this the

next time you move into your activities, projects and endeavors.

 

First take a mental step of quietness. Think and reflect on what

you’re doing. Then, maybe make a list of what you want to

accomplish. These are two silent steps. Then dive into dynamic

activity. In truth, the silent phase

of our mind’s or consciousness is the real key to all success in

life.

The more settled and clear we are in the midst of dynamic activity, the

more successful we’ll be.

 

Therefore take advantage of these New Moon and Saturn periods to literally

generate more inner silence. You’ll find that you

automatically carry that into your outer, busy life and the more

successful and happy you will be!

 

The B’s & D’s of

Saturn

 

Another good way of utilizing these principles of inner calmness is to

realize the mechanics in which Saturn works. If we’re settled,

calm or peaceful we’ll find automatically we think correctly, call

that person at just the right time, and things happen for us in perfect

ways.

In people who have better Saturn’s in their charts, they

automatically radiate this. In those who don’t all manners of

misery can result. The primary #1 need is to generate more Saturn

integration of Silence with the mind and body.

 

The 2 B’s of Saturn

 

I like to say: there are 2 B’s of Saturn. We’re

either balanced or imbalanced. If we’re in-balance then life

progresses quite nicely. If we’re out of balance then all

kinds of Saturn grief, challenges and suffering

results.

 

The 3 D’s of Saturn

 

Another way of figuring out how in-tune you are with your Saturn is to see

if you’re in dis-ease or disease. The mechanics of dysfunction

of Saturn is first getting out of balance and into dis-ease. If we

don’t notice or take care of this situation, then over time,

dis-ease turns into disease.

Then if we don’t attend to the need of getting out of disease, then

disease leads to death. Dis-ease, disease and death are the 3

D’s of Saturn. Find where you are, and then re-claim your

steps to balance.

If close to death, put attention on getting back to disease. If in

disease, balance to get into dis-ease And if in dis-ease put enough

attention till dis-ease dissolves into blessed balance. The key to

healing disease is to get out of dis-ease. By creating more balance

and peace within disease can slip back into dis-ease. Then, as we

take further steps to move dis-ease back into balance we will finally heal

ourselves by achieving Saturn balance.

 

Unfortunately most people think that Saturn is the planet of disease and

death. During Saturn times, like Dasas or difficult Transits periods

like Sade Sat, we suffer the results of lack of Saturn mastery. If

you pay attention, you will find that you may strain during all kinds of

periods but when you get sick is during the Saturn times. This also

happens during New Moon periods, because the real purpose of these periods

is to help get us back in balance.

So, Saturn periods are really healing periods. New Moon periods are

really rest and rejuvenation periods. If we use them for this

purpose then we stay out of dis-ease and all problems stay away. I

used to get sick every year probably twice a year. Even after

learning meditation I probably got sick at least once a year.

 

When I learned Astrology and started understanding the importance of rest,

I stopped being sick. I haven’t been sick for years, because

I’m committed to taking or giving to myself the rest that is

needed.

 

Hearing the Saturn or Silence Needs Of the Mind, Body, or

Emotions

 

Every moment the body or mind will tell you how it’s doing. If

we’ve rested deeply enough we feel good. We have energy,

clarity of mind and we do and create without fuss. But, if we

didn’t sleep well the night before then all manner of problems can

exist the next day. We might feel tired, upset, anxious or

worried.

These are “signs” that we’re already out of

balance. If we ignore them and we do ignore them for many important

reasons, then the misery only gets worse. Then, we get sick or we

have a melt down at work. Maybe we even have an accident. In

all these scenarios, Nature takes over and puts us in our beds! Next

time you find yourself laid up, reflect on this. Rest is the basis of activity!

The early signs of dis-ease or

imbalance coming include:

 

o

Tiredness

o Lack of

energy

o

Lethargy

o

Procrastinating

o

Worry

o

Anxieties

o

Fear

o Lack of

Memory

 

The signs of balance are:

 

o Good

energy

o Clarity of

Mind

o Settled

ness

o

Intuition

o Dynamism

without stress

o Inner

Bliss

o

Happiness

o

Fulfillment

 

Find Yourself in the Sequence of

Saturn

 

Are you feeling good? Are you feeling unsettled? Are you

worried, anxious or troubled, uncertain? Whatever the symptom

don’t blame the environment or circumstances for these

negatives. The mind tends to look for the

reason.

 

The Mind Picks Something to Justify the

Mood

 

We learn in Yoga practice that the mind picks something from the

environment to justify the Mood. When we’re out of balance,

and un-settled the Mind looks for a reason. Because we’re not

taught the real reason, we project onto things and circumstances why

we’re feeling the way we are.

If we’re worried, it’s because we don’t have a job or

any money. If we’re upset, it’s because of what happened

at work or with our in-laws. If we’re miserable it’s

because our girl friend left us. If we’re in grief it’s

because someone passed away.

 

In literally all these examples the real source of our misery is our own

Moons! If we’re out of tune with ourselves we’ll

feel automatically all these problems. If we’re feeling good

and balanced, then all manner of challenges can be there, but we

don’t feel so overwhelmed by them. And, it’s not that we

don’t care. We do and in fact, are more capable for solving

life’s challenges and problems because we are clearer and level

headed. We even have more heart, when we’re settled and

peaceful within.

Next time you find yourself in one of these experiences or moods, make

this experiment. Instead of believing in what the mind, mood,

emotions or Moon tells you, do something to smooth out your Moon!

Get more rest, meditate, generate more inner bliss, create calmness and

peace of mind and, then, go back to those problems. They’ll

still be there, only your inner basis of mind will be stronger and more

capable.

I first noticed this when I learned to meditate. For years I’d

worried about this or that, and then suddenly my inner feelings and mind

were calmer and the worry just vanished. I used to think that the

worry was because of this or that. Then I discovered the worry was

because of a lack of inner stillness.

 

Life is a State of

Mind

 

Therefore do whatever you need to do to unfold yours! You may have

heard we all use a very tiny portion of our potential. Some say as

little as 10 or 15%. Even medical people know that the human brain

is only 20% active. They have no idea what the other 80% is even

for!

 

Meditation Unfolds the Human

Potential

 

In the last 35 years over 600 scientific studies have been conducted all

over the World on the healing benefits of meditation. Performed in

the best Universities and research institutions and published in the best

magazines; including Scientific American and Science, scientific research

has begun to show how it's really possible to increase our human potential

as well as such benefits as a reversal in the ageing

process.

 

We each have such a great potential inside. Unfortunately very

little is known or done to help us unfold that unused latent

potential. Astrology can help because it understands

completely the more highly developed states of each planet. When a

person is more highly evolved with their Intellects, they have a very good

and strong Mercury in their charts.

When their emotional intelligence what Science is lately calling EQ or

emotional quotient, like IQ, is higher then the Moon in a person’s

chart is strong and developed.

 

Real Purpose of Astrology

 

The real purpose of Astrology, however, is to learn how develop the

talents and attributes of each of the Planets. As we develop them,

then we’ll find ourselves enjoying all the benefits of each one the

areas in which they rule.

 

The Sun

 

If you’re experiencing any of the negatives of the Sun, then you

might consider deciding to strengthen the Sun in your chart. If

you’re feeling any lack of self-confidence or problems of I,

ego or self-strength then it may be that your Sun’s slightly

malefic.

 

Moon

 

If you have any malefic Moon experiences like worrying, fear, or anxiety

then the Moon is a planet you may want to develop.

 

Mercury

 

If you have any negatives associated with thinking, lack of clarity of

mind, and especially using the mind, decision makings, choosing and

discriminating, then Mercury may be one of your Planets needing

strengthening.

 

Venus

 

When Venus is found acting malefically, any manner of unhappiness can be

found in the area of relations, friendships, love and marriage.

Venus of course, is about appreciation. And by strengthening

our Venus’ within and becoming more loving and appreciative we can

solve any manner of lack of Venus.

 

Jupiter

 

When Jupiter is not well developed then faith is lacking in a

person. Jupiter stands for spirituality and in fact for all

qualities of progress and prosperity. When Jupiter is strong, then

spiritual strength is strong and appreciation as to the style and manner

of expansion and progress come naturally. Any spiritual problems are

often due to a lack of Jupiter power or strength.

 

Saturn

 

If Saturn is weak, undeveloped or out of balance then all negative

expressions of health, happiness and wholeness result. If you find

yourself in any health problem Saturn is the first planet one looks

at. If you have any problems with impatience, frustrations, losses,

set backs, losses, or grief then Saturn is the planet to

strengthen.

 

Mars

 

If Mars is underdeveloped then Mars problems including accidents, pitta or

heated dis-eases like fever, and headaches can result. Also all

quarrels, fighting, criminal behavior, and anger are due to a lack of

balance of Mars’ very important energy or healthy

strength.

 

Rahu/Ketu

 

Finally if Rahu & Ketu are out of

sorts, then problems pop up related to what I like to call: the “desire mechanism”. In

other words, when Rahu and Ketu are strong and healthy then one has

desires but they don’t drive or push us.

When Rahu is found acting malefically then our desires overwhelm or compel

us. This is why Rahu’s the primary planet for all compulsions,

obsessions and addictions. Rahu also rules attachment and even

identification or ignorance where our desires overwhelm

us.

When Rahu is calm and settled we have our desires but we’re not

attached to them, nor do they compel us!

Conclusion:

However you find yourself in your life, finding the Astrological label or

symbolism will help you know which planet is out of balance and needing of

self-development.

The very moment you take these kinds of rest periods like New Moons and

Saturn times, to rest, rejuvenate, heal and self-develop; you’ll

find yourself creating more inner balance integration and all the negative

signs of life will immediately begin going away!

 

What a great tool Astrology is. It helps us know where we’re

starting from. It knows which of our planets are strong and healthy

and which ones need attention. It even knows which periods will be

ideal for expansion and which ones for

self-development.

 

Learning to appreciate the silent, restful, and stillness part of life is

one of the most important areas of life and Astrology that is so sorely

lacking in our World today!

 

 

Sincerely,

 

 

 

Mark Kincaid

 

 

Excerpts from New Book:

“The Stars Within”

 

Founder:

Nature's Astrology www..com

Personal email at:

markkincaid