27 Nakshatras (Lunar Mansions) and Zodiac Constellations in Astrology

Nakshatras are one of the most fundamental aspects of Vedic astrology, holding immense significance even before the zodiac signs. Often described as lunar mansions, Nakshatras are celestial realms that represent the cosmic abode of karma. According to revered sages, these mansions act as a storehouse for the soul’s actions, encompassing past, present, and future lives. The ancient Vedic scriptures link the positions of the planets and stars to human karma, offering profound insights into our spiritual journey.

In the Vedic tradition, Nakshatras are often referred to as the 27 wives of Chandra (the Moon) and the daughters of Daksha Prajapati. The celestial marriage between the Moon and the Nakshatras symbolically represents the Moon's cycle through these 27 houses over the span of 27.3 days. This cosmic rhythm mirrors the harmonious alignment between time, destiny, and human existence.

Nakshatras help reveal one's prakriti (nature) and karmic path, offering essential guidance on auspicious timings for sacred rituals, career choices, and relationship dynamics. By understanding Nakshatras, individuals can gain profound clarity on their life’s purpose and better align themselves with the divine cosmic order.

The 27 Nakshatras

The word Nakshatra combines two Sanskrit words put together: Naksha, which generally means 'map,' and Tara, usually meaning 'star'; combined, they can just mean 'star map.' In Hindu astronomy and Indian Astrology, Nakshatra means the lunar mansions or constellations of the Moon that passes in successive course through its space roughly in a day. For a total count of the zodiacal 360, they are methodically mapped to be begun at Ashvini Nakshatra, reaching from 0° in Aries up to Revathi Nakshatra, which sets at 30° among Pisces; thus, an arc of 13°20'.

Here are the 27 Nakshatras in their sequential order:

1. Ashwini
2. Bharani
3. Krittika
4. Rohini
5. Mrigashira
6. Ardra
7. Punarvasu
8. Pushya
9. Ashlesha
10. Magha
11. Purva Phalguni
12. Uttara Phalguni
13. Hasta
14. Chitra
15. Swati
16. Vishakha
17. Anuradha
18. Jyeshtha
19. Mula
20. Purva Ashadha
21. Uttara Ashadha
22. Shravana
23. Dhanishta
24. Shatabhisha
25. Purva Bhadrapada
26. Uttara Bhadrapada
27. Revati

The 27 Nakshatras: Celestial Influences in Vedic Astrology

The term Nakshatra, derived from the Sanskrit words Naksha (map) and Tara (star), represents the lunar mansions or star constellations in Vedic astrology. These Nakshatras play a pivotal role in shaping one's karmic journey and spiritual alignment. The Moon travels through these 27 Nakshatras in a 27.3-day cycle, spending roughly one day in each, which connects human experiences to the celestial bodies' rhythms.

Nakshatras are methodically placed within the 360° zodiac. From Ashvini Nakshatra at 0° Aries to Revati Nakshatra at 30° Pisces, each Nakshatra spans 13°20'. This system provides a detailed map of how the Moon’s journey impacts our life and actions.

List of the 27 Nakshatras: Unlocking Their Cosmic Influence

Ashwini – The Pioneering Healer

Bharani – The Sacred Vessel

Krittika – The Illuminating Flame

Rohini – The Nurturer and Creator

Mrigashira – The Curious Seeker

Ardra – The Intense Transformation

Punarvasu – The Restorer and Renewed

Pushya – The Protective Nourisher

Ashlesha – The Hidden Serpent

Magha – The Regal Ancestor

Purva Phalguni – The Embodiment of Love

Uttara Phalguni – The Supporter of Commitments

Hasta – The Creative Hand

Chitra – The Shining Pearl

Swati – The Independent Traveler

Vishakha – The Victorious Leader

Anuradha – The Loyal Companion

Jyeshtha – The Powerful Protector

Mula – The Root of Transformation

Purva Ashadha – The Invincible Leader

Uttara Ashadha – The Conqueror of the World

Shravana – The Listener to Divine Wisdom

Dhanishta – The Prosperous Drummer

Shatabhisha – The Hundred Healers

Purva Bhadrapada – The Seeker of Spiritual Knowledge

Uttara Bhadrapada – The Water Bearer

Revati – The Guiding Protector

Each Nakshatra represents a unique energy that influences various aspects of life, such as personality traits, life purpose, and timings for rituals. By understanding these celestial energies and the deities that govern each Nakshatra, one can gain deeper insights into their personal journey and connect with universal rhythms. Whether you’re seeking answers about your career path, relationships, or spiritual growth, the Nakshatras offer valuable wisdom to navigate your life's path.

The Nakshatras and Their Governing Planets

In Vedic astrology, each Nakshatra is ruled by a specific planet, which imparts its unique energies and influences the characteristics of that Nakshatra. The relationship between the planets and the Nakshatras is one of the fundamental ways to understand an individual’s personality, karmic path, and life challenges. Each Nakshatra is divided into 4 Padas (quarters), and each Pada is ruled by a different planet. This division brings further nuances to the astrological interpretation, as the placement of a planet in a specific Pada significantly affects its influence.

When a planet is placed in a Pada that corresponds to the highest vibration of that planet, it is said to be exalted. This positioning amplifies the planet’s positive qualities, leading to strength, clarity, and an enhanced ability to manifest its qualities in the individual’s life. Conversely, when a planet occupies a Pada that dampens or suppresses its natural qualities, it is considered to be debilitated, resulting in the planet's energies being suppressed or expressed in a less favorable manner. These placements have a profound impact on a person’s experiences and can guide the choice of remedies in Vedic astrology.

Nakshatras and Their Four Padas: Unlocking Personal Traits and Destiny

In Vedic astrology, each Nakshatra is further divided into 4 Padas, each spanning 3°20'. These Padas are finer divisions that hold deep significance in understanding an individual’s character, behavior, and destiny. Each Pada reflects distinct qualities that are closely tied to the individual’s astrological chart, offering deeper insights into personal strengths, emotional tendencies, and life’s journey.

The Padas are closely associated with the Navamsa chart, which is an essential tool in Vedic astrology for determining the spiritual and material aspects of life. The planet ruling each Pada influences these qualities, and its position within the Pada can further refine how a person expresses their traits. Whether it’s attitudes, emotional responses, or life goals, the Padas offer an essential understanding of how the energies of the Nakshatras manifest in daily life, making them a crucial component in personalized astrological readings.

Nakshatras and Career Path: How the Moon’s Nakshatra Influences Your Profession

In Vedic astrology, the Moon’s Nakshatra plays a vital role in shaping an individual’s career and life path, along with the Lagna (Ascendant). These Nakshatras have specific characteristics and energies that resonate with different professions, talents, and life purposes. The Nakshatra of the Moon indicates the underlying tendencies and inclinations of an individual, while the Lagna points to the external personality and approach to life's challenges.

For instance, Ashwini Nakshatra, ruled by Ketu, is associated with healing and pioneering work. Individuals born under this Nakshatra often excel in fields that require innovative, trailblazing approaches, such as medicine, research, or alternative healing. On the other hand, Pushya Nakshatra, ruled by Saturn, is linked with roles that focus on nourishment, administration, and organization, making it ideal for careers in healthcare, teaching, and management.

It is the Pada within each Nakshatra that further refines one’s career traits, as it determines the deeper astrological influence that shapes an individual’s occupational strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these nuances allows for a more precise determination of the most suitable career paths and the optimal timing for career-related decisions.

Naming Conventions in Vedic Astrology: The Power of the Moon’s Nakshatra

In Vedic astrology, naming conventions are a sacred tradition rooted in the Moon’s Nakshatra and its corresponding Pada. According to ancient Vedic customs, the phonetic syllable linked to the Nakshatra where the Moon is positioned at birth serves as the source for the first letter of one's name. This practice is believed to align the individual with their cosmic design and energies, ensuring that they vibrate in harmony with the universal forces.

By choosing a name based on the Nakshatra, one taps into the astrological energies that influence their life path, helping them to live a more balanced and successful life. This practice creates a resonance between the individual’s identity and the cosmic order, fostering spiritual alignment, personal growth, and success in their endeavors.

Nakshatra Compatibility in Relationships: Aligning with Cosmic Forces

In Vedic astrology, the Moon’s Nakshatra plays a crucial role in assessing relationship compatibility. The Nakshatra of the Moon represents the emotional nature and mental tendencies of an individual, which are vital for establishing emotional rapport and interpersonal understanding between partners. By analyzing the Moon’s Nakshatra, astrologers can determine how well a couple will align emotionally, spiritually, and mentally.

A traditional system known as Nakshatra Porutham or Ashtakoota matching is used to assess compatibility. This method evaluates eight key factors such as emotional compatibility, mutual understanding, and shared values, ensuring a harmonious and lasting relationship. By aligning with the cosmic design, this system helps couples build a relationship that resonates with their karmic paths, fostering long-term happiness and fulfilment.

Psychological and Emotional Insights Through the Moon’s Nakshatra

In Vedic astrology, the Moon governs the mind and emotional well-being, making its Nakshatra, known as Janma Nakshatra, a key indicator of an individual’s inner world. This Nakshatra reflects how one processes emotions, reacts to challenges, and displays instinctive behaviors. The Moon’s Nakshatra provides deep insights into the psychological and emotional state of a person, revealing their mental framework and responses to life's ups and downs.

By analyzing the Janma Nakshatra in the birth chart, astrologers can better understand how an individual’s mind works, including their emotional triggers and coping mechanisms. This insight is invaluable for addressing mental health concerns, guiding emotional growth, and enhancing personal relationships by creating a deeper understanding of emotional patterns.

The Dasha System: Understanding Planetary Periods in Vedic Astrology

The Vimshottari Dasha system is a foundational aspect of Vedic astrology, mapping the 120-year planetary cycle based on the Moon's Nakshatra at the time of birth. This system outlines the sequence of planetary influences that guide an individual’s life, including major events, opportunities, and challenges. Each Dasha period is ruled by a specific planet, and the energies of that planet shape the individual's experiences during that time.

By analyzing the Dasha periods and their connections to the Moon’s Nakshatra, astrologers can predict the timing of significant life events, from career milestones to personal relationships, offering valuable insights into the timing of actions and remedies. Understanding the Vimshottari Dasha allows for better alignment with cosmic rhythms, helping individuals navigate their karmic path with greater awareness.

Characteristics of the 27 Nakshatras: Unlocking Their Cosmic Influence

In Vedic astrology, the 27 Nakshatras, or lunar mansions, offer profound insights into an individual’s personality, life path, and karmic patterns. Each Nakshatra is ruled by a unique planet and deity, imparting specific energies that influence key aspects of life, such as relationships, career, and emotional well-being. The symbolism, elemental qualities, and compatibility with other Nakshatras provide an intricate map of an individual’s destiny and inner world.

Here’s an overview of the characteristics of each Nakshatra:

1. Ashwini Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Ketu

Deity : Ashwini Kumaras (Healers of the Gods)

Symbol : Horse's head

Strengths : Healing abilities, leadership, and courage

Weaknesses : Impulsiveness and impatience

Compatibility : Bharani, Magha

Favorable Aspects : Healing professions, swift decision-making, travel

2. Bharani Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Venus

Deity : Yama (God of Death)

Symbol : Yoni (Womb)

Strengths : Endurance, adaptability, and transformative abilities

Weaknesses : Stubbornness and possessiveness

Compatibility : Ashwini, Purva Phalguni

Favorable Aspects : Creative pursuits, family-oriented goals, artistic ventures

3. Krittika Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Sun

Deity : Agni (Fire God)

Symbol : Razor or Knife

Strengths : Clarity, resilience, and analytical skills

Weaknesses : Harshness and over-dominance

Compatibility : Pushya, Anuradha

Favorable Aspects : Leadership, teaching, and strategic roles

4. Rohini Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Moon

Deity : Brahma (Creator God)

Symbol : Chariot

Strengths : Artistic skills, emotional depth, and magnetism

Weaknesses : Jealousy and emotional dependency

Compatibility : Mrigashira, Hasta

Favorable Aspects : Agricultural ventures, wealth-building, family affairs

5. Mrigashira Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Mars

Deity : Soma (Moon God)

Symbol : Deer’s head

Strengths : Intellectual pursuits, adaptability, and charm

Weaknesses : Restlessness and indecisiveness

Compatibility : Chitra, Revati

Favorable Aspects : Travel, research, creative arts

6. Ardra Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Rahu

Deity : Rudra (Storm God)

Symbol : Teardrop

Strengths : Problem-solving, resourcefulness, and resilience

Weaknesses : Emotional volatility and rebelliousness

Compatibility : Swati, Satabhisha

Favorable Aspects : Innovations, spiritual pursuits, overcoming adversity

7. Punarvasu Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Jupiter

Deity : Aditi (Mother of Gods)

Symbol : Bow and quiver

Strengths : Compassion, adaptability, and renewal abilities

Weaknesses : Naivety and inconsistency

Compatibility : Pushya, Revati

Favorable Aspects : Creative pursuits, spiritual growth, and teaching

8. Pushya Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Saturn

Deity : Brihaspati (Guru of the Gods)

Symbol : Cow’s udder

Strengths : Generosity, devotion, and practicality

Weaknesses : Over-cautiousness and emotional suppression

Compatibility : Anuradha, Uttara Bhadrapada

Favorable Aspects : Teaching, parenting, and spiritual growth

9. Ashlesha Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Mercury

Deity : Naga (Serpent God)

Symbol : Coiled serpent

Strengths : Strategic thinking, intelligence, and adaptability

Weaknesses : Manipulativeness and emotional detachment

Compatibility : Jyeshtha, Swati

Favorable Aspects : Research, counseling, leadership

10. Magha Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Ketu

Deity : Pitris (Ancestral Spirits)

Symbol : Throne

Strengths : Leadership, respect for tradition, and charisma

Weaknesses : Pride, dominance, and resistance to change

Compatibility : Ashwini, Bharani

Favorable Aspects : Leadership, ancestral guidance, and public service

Unfavorable Aspects : Overbearing attitude, lack of flexibility

11. Purva Phalguni Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Venus

Deity : Bhaga (God of Wealth)

Symbol : Hammock

Strengths : Charm, social skills, and artistic talents

Weaknesses : Laziness, indulgence, and over-dependence on others

Compatibility : Bharani, Magha

Favorable Aspects : Creative arts, partnerships, and socializing

Unfavorable Aspects : Procrastination, lack of discipline

12. Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Sun

Deity : Aryaman (God of Contracts)

Symbol : Bed or cot

Strengths : Loyalty, leadership, and organizational skills

Weaknesses : Stubbornness, overburdening oneself, and rigidity

Compatibility : Hasta, Revati

Favorable Aspects : Long-term commitments, community service

Unfavorable Aspects : Over-attachment, difficulty adapting

13. Hasta Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Moon

Deity : Savitar (Sun God)

Symbol : Hand

Strengths : Craftsmanship, communication, and wit

Weaknesses : Perfectionism, control issues, and emotional instability

Compatibility : Chitra, Rohini

Favorable Aspects : Practical work, creative arts, and negotiations

Unfavorable Aspects : Overthinking, possessiveness

14. Chitra Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Mars

Deity : Tvashtar (Celestial Architect)

Symbol : Pearl or shining jewel

Strengths : Creativity, confidence, and innovation

Weaknesses : Vanity, impulsiveness, and arrogance

Compatibility : Swati, Hasta

Favorable Aspects : Architecture, design, and leadership

Unfavorable Aspects : Overambition, conflicts with authority

15. Swati Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Rahu

Deity : Vayu (Wind God)

Symbol : Coral

Strengths : Flexibility, communication, and resilience

Weaknesses : Restlessness, indecision, and over-dependence

Compatibility : Ardra, Punarvasu

Favorable Aspects : Trade, public relations, and travel

Unfavorable Aspects : Unreliability, emotional detachment

16. Vishakha Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Jupiter

Deity : Indra-Agni (Dual Gods of Energy and Transformation)

Symbol : Triumphal arch

Strengths : Focus, adaptability, and goal-oriented nature

Weaknesses : Impatience, over-competitiveness, and stubbornness

Compatibility : Anuradha, Mula

Favorable Aspects : Leadership, transformation, and teamwork

Unfavorable Aspects : Over-aggression, interpersonal conflicts

17. Anuradha Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Saturn

Deity : Mitra (God of Friendship and Partnership)

Symbol : Lotus flower

Strengths : Perseverance, devotion, and relationship-building

Weaknesses : Emotional dependency, possessiveness, and over-seriousness

Compatibility : Pushya, Uttara Bhadrapada

Favorable Aspects : Partnership ventures, spiritual growth, and counseling

Unfavorable Aspects : Challenges with emotional openness

18. Jyeshtha Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Mercury

Deity : Indra (King of the Gods)

Symbol : Circular amulet

Strengths : Leadership, courage, and strategic thinking

Weaknesses : Arrogance, self-importance, and emotional rigidity

Compatibility : Ashlesha, Revati

Favorable Aspects : Authority roles, intellectual pursuits, and administration

Unfavorable Aspects : Overconfidence, tendency to dominate

19. Mula Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Ketu

Deity : Nirriti (Goddess of Destruction)

Symbol : Tied roots

Strengths : Deep-rooted knowledge, adaptability, and resilience

Weaknesses : Recklessness, destructive tendencies, and emotional intensity

Compatibility : Vishakha, Purva Ashadha

Favorable Aspects : Spiritual transformation, research, and inquiry

Unfavorable Aspects : Impulsiveness, disruption in relationships

20. Purva Ashadha Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Venus

Deity : Apas (Water Goddess)

Symbol : Elephant tusk

Strengths : Charisma, enthusiasm, and adaptability

Weaknesses : Over-indulgence, lack of focus, and procrastination

Compatibility : Mula, Uttara Ashadha

Favorable Aspects : Creative work, emotional expression, and social success

Unfavorable Aspects : Disorganization, lack of discipline

21. Uttara Ashadha Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Sun

Deity : Vishwadevas (Universal Gods)

Symbol : Elephant tusk

Strengths : Perseverance, leadership, and integrity

Weaknesses : Rigidity, overburdening oneself, and lack of spontaneity

Compatibility : Purva Ashadha, Revati

Favorable Aspects : Leadership roles, justice-oriented work, and community service

Unfavorable Aspects : Challenges with adaptability, overwork

22. Shravana Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Moon

Deity : Vishnu (Preserver God)

Symbol : Ear

Strengths : Listening skills, learning, and emotional intelligence

Weaknesses : Over-dependence on tradition, emotional insecurity

Compatibility : Dhanishta, Anuradha

Favorable Aspects : Teaching, counseling, and spiritual guidance

Unfavorable Aspects : Emotional rigidity, lack of innovation

23. Dhanishta Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Mars

Deity : Eight Vasus (Celestial Beings of Abundance)

Symbol : Drum

Strengths : Hardworking, musical talents, and social skills

Weaknesses : Stubbornness, competitiveness, and arrogance

Compatibility : Shravana, Purva Bhadrapada

Favorable Aspects : Leadership, creative arts, and success in ventures

Unfavorable Aspects : Impulsiveness, material excess

24. Shatabhisha Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Rahu

Deity : Varuna (God of Cosmic Waters)

Symbol : 100 stars

Strengths : Healing abilities, intuition, and problem-solving

Weaknesses : Isolation, emotional detachment, and secrecy

Compatibility : Ardra, Swati

Favorable Aspects : Scientific pursuits, innovation, and healing

Unfavorable Aspects : Over-isolation, mistrust

25. Purva Bhadrapada Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Jupiter

Deity : Aja Ekapada (One-footed Goat, Fire Dragon)

Symbol : Two-faced man

Strengths : Visionary thinking, determination, and spirituality

Weaknesses : Extremism, mood swings, and selfishness

Compatibility : Uttara Bhadrapada, Pushya

Favorable Aspects : Spirituality, teaching, and philanthropy

Unfavorable Aspects : Confusion, emotional imbalance

26. Uttara Bhadrapada Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Saturn

Deity : Ahir Budhnya (Serpent of the Depths)

Symbol : Twin fish

Strengths : Compassion, perseverance, and stability

Weaknesses : Passivity, emotional withdrawal, and lack of ambition

Compatibility : Revati, Anuradha

Favorable Aspects : Long-term goals, spiritual growth

Unfavorable Aspects : Over-passivity, reluctance to act

27. Revati Nakshatra

Ruling Planet : Mercury

Deity : Pushan (Nourisher and Protector)

Symbol : Fish

Strengths : Generosity, emotional intelligence, and adaptability

Weaknesses : Over-sensitivity, escapism, and lack of focus

Compatibility : Punarvasu, Uttara Phalguni

Favorable Aspects : Arts, spirituality, and protection-oriented roles

Unfavorable Aspects : Emotional overwhelm, disorganization

How to Calculate Your Nakshatra: Understanding Your Lunar Position

In Vedic astrology, your Nakshatra is determined by the exact position of the Moon at the time of your birth. The Moon passes through the 27 Nakshatras, each spanning 13°20' of the zodiac belt. To calculate your Nakshatra, you need to know the precise date, time, and place of birth, as these details determine the Moon’s position at the moment you were born.

Once the Moon’s position is identified, it is mapped to one of the 27 Nakshatras. This can be done through software or an online calculator that computes the exact placement based on your birth details. In manual calculation, the longitude of the Moon is measured from 0° Aries to 360° Pisces, and this degree is matched to the corresponding Nakshatra.

This method of Nakshatra calculation allows astrologers to identify the Moon’s Nakshatra and offer insights into your personality, life path, and karmic influences, aligning you with your cosmic blueprint for a deeper understanding of your soul’s journey.

Using Nakshatra for Career and Relationship Compatibility: Aligning with Your Cosmic Blueprint

In Vedic astrology, Nakshatras play a significant role in guiding both career paths and relationship compatibility. Each Nakshatra holds a unique energy that influences an individual’s temperament, skills, and interpersonal traits. By understanding the ruling planet and deity of a Nakshatra, astrologers can reveal a person's inherent strengths and preferences related to various pursuits, such as leadership, creativity, analysis, or nurturance.

When it comes to career, Nakshatras help individuals align with professions that resonate with their cosmic nature, allowing them to thrive in fields that suit their innate abilities. For example, a Nakshatra ruled by Mars might encourage a career in leadership, research, or sports, while one ruled by Venus may lead to success in creative arts or relationship-based careers.

In relationships, Nakshatras offer vital insights into emotional compatibility, value systems, and mutual understanding. The traditional method of Nakshatra Porutham or Ashtakoota matching evaluates how the Moon’s Nakshatras of two individuals interact. Certain Nakshatras harmonize naturally due to complementary qualities. For example, the nurturing energy of Rohini Nakshatra aligns well with the intellectual curiosity of Mrigashira Nakshatra, fostering a balanced and fulfilling relationship.

Using Nakshatras as a tool, individuals can make informed decisions about both career and life partnerships, creating alignment with their cosmic blueprint. This system enables a more harmonious and successful life path, ensuring that individuals attract opportunities and relationships that resonate with their true nature.

Conclusion: The Timeless Wisdom of Nakshatras in Vedic Astrology

In Vedic astrology, Nakshatras serve as a profound cosmic bridge, connecting the celestial realm with human life. These lunar mansions guide every aspect of our existence, from personality and strengths to karmic patterns and life paths. Each Nakshatra, governed by its ruling planet, deity, and element, offers valuable insights into a person’s tendencies, profession choices, and relationships, making them a powerful tool for self-awareness.

The Janma Nakshatra, or the Nakshatra under which the Moon was positioned at birth, is particularly influential in determining an individual’s emotional nature, career choices, and marriage compatibility. With four Padas under each Nakshatra, detailed insights into personal characteristics, career paths, and spiritual growth are revealed. By categorizing Nakshatras based on their gunas, elements, and yoni, one gains a deeper understanding of how cosmic energies manifest in our lives.

From personal growth and career alignment to fostering harmonious relationships, Nakshatras offer a holistic approach to understanding our cosmic blueprint. Their timeless wisdom links the microcosm of human experience with the macrocosm of the universe, allowing individuals to navigate their destiny with clarity, purpose, and alignment with the universal rhythms.