Makar Sankranti

By Swami Shivananda

Sankranti means to go from one place to another place (to change direction). It also means one meets another. The time when the sun changes direction from one constellation (of the zodiac) to another is known as Sankranti.
Transition of the Sun from Sagittarius to Capricorn during the winter solstice in the northern hemisphere (Uttarayana) is known as Makar sankranti.

Solar Year – Importance of the Sun

There are 12 signs of the zodiac. There are 12 Sankrantis as well. They are given names according to the position of the sun in relation to the signs of the zodiac. Each of the 12 Sankrantis has its relevant importance but two of these are most prominent.

These two are Mesh Sankranti and Makar Sankranti (Aries and Capricorn).The solar year commences when the sun is in Aries (the first sign of the zodiac). From the point of view of mathematical calculations, the solar year is more scientific than the lunar year. One lunar year has 354 days only and lunar days (or nights) increase or decrease according to the phases of the moon. Compare this to the solar year which has 365 ¼ days and remains the same. Many astrological books are based upon solar calculations. The sun is the most important and the most prominent of our stars and the undisputed lord of our planetary system. The sun always comes first. First day of the week commences with Sunday (Ravi).

Science attaches great importance to the sun. The sun is the inexhaustible storehouse and the source of light and energy. Without sunlight creatures and vegetation would cease to exist. People will lose their life sustaining vitality. Lack of nourishing substances would lead to the end of creation. This is why the sun’s existence, movements and positions in the cosmos are so important and that is why the sun earns our respect, admiration and reverence.

New Year’s Tips for New You

Focus Resolutions on Getting the Most out of Life, Now

© Tel Asiado

New Year’s tips to a fresh start for a healthier, calmer, and less stressful life.

The New Year means giving yourself another chance at life, a fresh start. Some might have prepared their resolutions, while others can’t be bothered but that doesn’t mean they haven’t mentally prepared themselves their own resolve. Always, it’s the time to plan carefully, set goals and prioritize. By doing them, simple things can be enjoyed with a calmer and less stressed living. Here are some tips or reminders to consider.

Reflect

You know you need to change, but can’ t quite put your finger on what exactly is making you anxious, unsettled or frustrated. Desires can be muddled by responsibilities or concern for others, fear of the consequences, uncertainties or being out of touch with your feelings. A few mental exercises can help pinpoint your goals. Write down your thoughts, worries and needs. It’s a powerful way to clarify thoughts, confront fears and help identify and secure commitments. Make your goals specific, measurable, attainable and time-specific.

Take a look at your life from a number of perspectives: work, home, health, relationships and money. How about your spiritual life? How do you feel about each of these areas? Be specific. What actions can you take to improve on them?

Happy new year 2008!!

video by : Praveen Mayakar

Who are you? What your pig drawing, browser type, fav. drinks, etc. reveal about you!

 

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