How Vedic Astrology Can Help You Make Better Choices

Rooted in the Vedas, Vedic astrology is based on the belief that the stars and planets have a powerful influence on our lives. Can we agree that planets influence us, our earth, global warming, and other climatic events? In New York City, I hear the term “Mercury Retrograde” as an explanation or justification for all bad communication in our lives.

In Ayurveda, “the science of light” is called Jyotish and is often referred to as Vedic astrology. According to Kamlesh Trivedi, a Vedic astrologer for the Nebula app, “Vedic astrology explains planetary motions and position with respect to time, space, and their effect on humans and all the other entities on the planet Earth.”

My Skepticism in Vedic Astrology Growing Up

Growing up in a Hindu home, I remember every family had a Jyotishi, the person who practiced Jyotish. There were enthralling stories of what the Jyotishi had predicted and what was written in the horoscope chart. 99 percent of the time, this person (almost always a man) and his teachings were considered sacred. He would suggest remedies for illnesses and make recommendations to avoid bad situations or chaotic relationships, suggesting who to marry or not marry. He proposed stones, prayers, and gems to deal with the negative aspects. There were rituals, or pujas, to pacify the problems caused by Rahu and Ketu, generally considered malefic planets.

I have always been skeptical about mass trends and tend to question what 99 percent of the population does blindly. I didn’t take Vedic astrology or astrologers seriously growing up. How could someone else tell me about my dharma or karma? Or tell me what my innate gifts or challenges in life will be? How can planets, people, and this science make a commentary on my personal and professional relationships? Who will I marry? What will our relationship be like? My career? When will I die? What diseases will I be exposed to? How can anyone dispel darkness with the science of light? How could a Jyotishi make recommendations to heal a disease? Yes, I was that kid who always asked a lot of questions and thought all this information about predicting futures appeared a bit ominous.

The Relationship Between Vedic Astrology and the Doshas

They say the universe has a weird sense of humor, and that what you resist persists. When I started studying Ayurveda, I saw how Vedic astrology and Ayurveda are deeply correlated in many aspects. I saw the science and logic behind the predictions and precautions. It wasn’t someone performing occult arts and sciences.

All the planets (Grahas) and zodiac signs (Rashis) have dominant doshas. Ayurveda examines individual constitutions and disease factors according to the three doshas of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The nine planets of Vedic astrology relate to the Ayurvedic doshas. But planets do not cause disease or health; they do not produce poverty or wealth. They indicate possibilities for our lives and future.

Vata is manifested in Saturn, the Moon, and Rahu; Pitta is manifested in the Sun, Mars, and Ketu; and Kapha is manifested in Jupiter and Venus, while all three doshas are present in Mercury.

Gaining Insight From Vedic Astrology

One of my teachers, a brilliant Vedic astrologer, taught me that Vedic astrology is a system that can be used to gain insight into our lives. He suggested I should cut down on masala chai (I used to drink about 2-3 cups a day) and gave me a good reason for it. He explained how masala chai might be aggravating certain health issues because it was leading to elemental imbalance and causing overall doshic imbalances in my body. Had my planets been in different positions, he would have asked me to avoid or prefer a different substance.

The study of our birth chart through Vedic astrology helps us learn about various health issues or even our relationships, children, marriage, partner, and career. Jyotish can help us prepare for the good and the bad in our future so we aren’t completely taken by surprise. In his article, “Ayurvedic Astrology: Hinduism Today,” Dr. David Frawley, the founder of the American Institute of Vedic Studies, writes, “By warning us of impending negative planetary periods for health or emotional wellbeing, Vedic astrology helps us take precautions and be prepared to minimize the dangers.”

We can use Vedic astrology to improve our practice of Ayurveda by analyzing and implementing the right timing for treatments. By using a person’s chart, healers can suggest dietary protocols, herbs, gems, and mantras to enhance a person’s healing. I have seen many Ayurvedic doctors use Vedic astrology or consult with Vedic astrologers. It can be helpful, especially when dealing with cases that are difficult to treat. Similarly, many Vedic astrologers consult with Ayurvedic doctors on their patients’ health conditions. After talking to her Jyotish, my mom had me and my brother wear certain gemstones to ward off the evil eye and lessen the hardship of the upcoming difficult times.

Other Ways Vedic Astrology Can Help

Vedic astrology can also help us get a sense of our lives outside of our physical health. Not too long ago, my dad told me about my horoscope (created by our family Vedic astrologer when I was a kid), and every one of his professional predictions had come true. I am not saying I am an author, speaker, doctoral student, and coach because of what’s written in my chart and the predictions of Vedic astrology. But it’s hard to overlook the coincidence. I am a high Pitta individual, which means I am driven, ambitious, logical, and goal-oriented, as well as a quick learner and a perfectionist who loves to educate the masses and raise awareness of Ayurveda and mindful living.

There is a profession best-suited for each dosha. I am doing what I am meant to do (my dharma). But Vedic astrology can help guide you if you are confused about your professional choices or going through a transition in your career. I have seen so many of my cousins consult with a Jyotishi (based on their parents' insistence) when they were in high school if they were lacking in clarity or feeling stuck.

I won’t say that Vedic astrology can help design your life. I can’t imagine leaving every life decision to the planets. There is something to be said about spontaneity, hard work, and being human. But by understanding our Vedic birth chart as well as our Ayurvedic constitution, we gain a compelling idea for what might or might not work. We have the opportunity to enhance our health and live in a way that's best for us.

Disclaimer: The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. The information is not intended for use in the diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional. If you are nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition, please consult with your health care practitioner prior to the use of any of these herbs. If you are looking for advice from a trained yogi and Ayurvedic coach, contact Sweta here.