Ketu, the south node of the moon in Vedic astrology, is an intriguing planet that has a mesmerising but mysterious role in our lives. While the north node Rahu is well illuminated, Ketu is not as easily understood or explained. Ketu is linked to letting go, the concept of closure, and the subtle murmurings of our subconscious mind; thus, its energies can be as disruptive as they are liberating.However, hidden in this dark figure is a powerful source of transformation and renewal, especially if we can manage the challenges this figure creates in our lives.
Picture Ketu as a knot in the tapestry of karma that weaves our lives together. It symbolises the unsolved problems and occurrences of the previous lives that are still reflected in the current life. These can be fear, phobia, or a feeling of something missing in life that may not be easily recognisable. The main idea behind Ketu’s influence is not to avoid its adverse effects but to use it as a positive force that brings change.
One of the ways Ketu brings change is through chaos and change of status quo. These can be as simple as a change of job or a change in relationship status to more serious things like a health issue or an identity crisis. Such occurrences may seem like the universe is trying to knock us off our axis, but they are usually necessary wake-up calls. They make us face the darkness within – the habits and beliefs that no longer serve us yet are still deeply ingrained.
For instance, let us take a person with Ketu as the lord of the ascendant or the tenth house who has been in a boring job for years. It may seem that the security and familiarity of the situation are pleasant and safe, but there is a lingering feeling of discontent. Then, out of the blue, a company restructuring results in a layoff. While this disruption may be uncomfortable, it may be the catalyst for change that this person has been waiting for – a desire that has been suppressed by society or fear of the unknown. Such a disruption of the status quo can open up opportunities for a more meaningful career and a life of greater meaning.
However, one might see Ketu’s influence in a more subtle form too. They can cause mood swings and even lead to critical thinking of one’s life or religious conversion. It’s possible to come to any activities which promote spirituality and philosophy, such as meditation and yoga, to search for comfort and personal enlightenment. At times, this process can be – challenging; it may awaken repressed anxiety and pain, which the person has been running away from for quite some time. However, such self-examination brings us to a path of healing, and we can let go of all that has been burdening us; hence, we are reborn anew.
However, in Indian culture, we have a different approach to handling Ketu periods. In our scriptures, we are reminded not to be indifferent but to follow the path of the ‘vairagya’ or ‘dispassion’ from the objects or worldly desires and ambitions. It comes as a relief that through this detachment, we can ride the ordeals that Ketu brings with resignation and calmness. We comprehend that these interferences are not penalties but lessons and tests that overcome or dissolve the lower, terrestrial carapace of persona to attain the ultimately divine Self.
We need to use this aspect of Ketu and emerge as better people after the storm that Ketu creates in our lives.
First and foremost, we should embrace introspection. Reflect on responses that may relate to the current setting that one has encountered in the past. Ask yourself challenging questions. It is essential for me to replace these negative thoughts, override them, and understand what limited belief is preventing me from successfully completing the task. As you immerse yourself deeper into your spirit, you can discover the source of evil that brought you today's adversities.
As the journey of self-discovery is often lengthy and filled with moments of confusion, the guidance of an experienced person is essential. When going through tough times in a relationship, it is always helpful to seek out a therapist, spiritual leader, or senior person. These people can provide a different point of view on the situation, emotional support, or just information on how to cope with this or that experience.
Some coping mechanisms are recommended when it comes to managing the impact of Ketu, including Meditation, Yoga and Mindfulness Exercises. Such practices help understand the self, foster inner balance, and learn coping strategies one might need. It is essentially a way of learning how to meditate, which means you get to watch your thoughts and feelings without passing any kind of judgment or criticism on them, and it also involves a physical discipline, yoga, which links the mind to the physical body and the spirit. If these practices are integrated into one’s daily activities, it is possible to bounce back effectively and manage the undesirable situations that one comes across.
Lastly, do not be overly possessive with things or have specific expectations of how things should be. Paying attention to the search process rather than the result is more important. Just remember that nothing is permanent in life, which is why embracing change is very important. Thus, by developing the ability to identify with our ego, we can free ourselves from the things that no longer benefit us and accept the process of change. This does not mean becoming numb to the world around us but rather learning how to be content and at peace with ourselves regardless of what is happening in the outside world.