Leaking pipes, illness, family problems and financial losses are just a few of the misfortunes that have come to be associated with the much-feared astrological phase, Sade Sati. These two words have haunted Vedic astrology enthusiasts since time immemorial, and those who are about to embark on this 7.5 year life phase brace themselves for a rough ride.
But, is it really as bad as it is made out to be?
In fact, Sade Sati has many positive effects, which are evident when we are able to see beyond events and look at life from a broader perspective. It can bring about prominent life changes which are hugely beneficial in the long term.
7.5 Years of Saturn
The term Sade Sati literally means “seven and half” as it represents the 7.5 year period in one’s life where Saturn moves through three signs; the Moon sign, and the signs before and after it.
The period of Sade Sati begins when Saturn (Lord Shani) enters the 12th sign from the birth Moon and ends when Saturn leaves the 2nd sign from the birth Moon. It takes Saturn, the slowest moving of all the planets, approximately 2.5 years to transit a sign and around 7.5 years to transit three signs, which makes up the Sade Sati cycle.
Balance your Karma Bank
According to Vedic teachings, we are here on this planet to evolve spiritually. This growth is, in part, facilitated by karma. Every thought and action has a corresponding reaction, and our lives are happening as the result of our past karma.
Saturn, or Lord Shani, is hailed as the Lord of Karma, and the Lord of Justice. Like any other planet, Saturn is not there to punish you, it is simply reflecting the effects of your karma. The ultimate reality is that we were born on this planet to repay our karmic debts. But, along the way, we often get lost in our comforts and attachments. Lord Shani comes to wake us up and, though it may not feel pleasant or enjoyable, he works efficiently and effectively in forcing us to face up to our past karmas, whether good or bad.
If you are focussed on your karmic duties, and are able to stay centered through the challenges you face with a pure heart and mind, then Sade Sati is a fantastic opportunity for you to move towards a greater freedom. Lord Shani is keeping track of your karma, so focus on doing good and it will for sure come back to you.
Short Term Pain - Long Term Gain
Have you ever looked back on a situation in your life that seemed terrible at the time, but later realized that it was the best thing that could have happened for you? Often we get derailed by events which at the time appear to turn our world upside down, and we get caught up in the emotions and our own resistance to change.
But getting sacked from a job might mean that you later end up working in a better paid or more satisfying job, or that you go on to set up the start-up you always dreamed of. It might give you the time you need to upgrade your skills and prepare for taking more responsibility in your future career. Or if it’s a financial loss you are facing, consider how that makes you turn inward and discover your own inner resources.
Termination of a relationship too, despite being a difficult and hurtful experience at the time, may later be looked on as a positive thing if your partner was holding you back from your own evolution. Many people have only turned and looked within after going through the pain of loss. Saturn helps us drop our attachments. During Sade Sati the possibility for change is immense, and if embraced, it can alter the course of your life for the better.
Face Your Fears
The tough times in life bring immense strength. When you are fearful of something but you courageously go through it, it brings enormous personal growth. Then later, if similar situations appear, you can navigate them with ease.
During Sade Sati you may have to get out of your comfort zone and face your fears. You may also come across things you don’t like. The important thing is to take care of your own mind and do what is right in any situation. Don’t think too much about the rest – things will fall into place.
Just as the process of polishing a diamond makes it shine brighter, through these experiences you will come out stronger, and acquire a depth of character. With that you are more able to guide and inspire others.
The Fruits of Hard Work
Saturn likes hard workers. So during Sade Sati, putting effort, taking responsibility and working hard are all the need of the hour. It isn’t hard work that bothers us, but our resistance to it. We may feel lazy or be procrastinating, but fight the resistance and Saturn will reward you with success.
Routine, too, is much loved by Lord Shani. When you embrace routine in your daily life and do your work with honesty and integrity, Saturn will be on your side, and you might just set some positive habits that will help you for many years to come.
Steered to the Spiritual
In some cases Saturn is good to you, and brings good fortune to those who are deserving. As Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar explains, “If you are on the spiritual path, he (Saturn) can be good for you, he will elevate your life. If you have dispassion, he will help you more. If you are not on the spiritual path, he will create a problem so that you get on the spiritual path.”
Ultimately Saturn has the power to strip us of our illusion and drive us to the path of spirituality. Afterall, it is only that which can guide you to the highest – to your own Self.
Tips for a Smooth Sade Sati
- Be disciplined in your speech and actions and avoid arguments or confrontations, gossiping or speaking badly about others.
- Bring structure and planning into your activities and avoid laziness, carelessness and taking shortcuts.
- Declutter your home, donating items that you don’t need.
- Promptly fix any issues at home that could escalate into a bigger problem.
- Take care of your health by eating and exercising well, and as much as possible avoid alcohol and non-vegetarian food.
- Keep your focus on doing the right thing in all situations.
- Practice meditation and selfless service
You can understand the effect of the transits of Saturn upon your chart in full depth and prepare yourself for this phase by booking a Sade Sati consultation.
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