Pratyutkrama – first step 

«In this endeavor there is no loss or diminution, and a little advancement on this path can protect one from the most dangerous type of fear» (Bhagavad-gītā, 2.40). 

Do you remember this sentence, Cancer? I proposed it to you, in another translation, last April. There I talked to you about useless efforts. Now I tell you about small steps, first steps. The word used in the Gītā is actually abhikama, which here is translated as “effort”, “to try”, but which in general means a beginning, an attempt, an initiative. The prefix pratyut means “on the contrary” “rather”, but combined with krama it is used to indicate the first step or measure to be taken in a commercial activity or in a war. In fact it means “preparing for war” too.

It’s your birthday month, Cancer. You don’t lack ideas and at the end of the month you should be able to move to implement them. If I were you I would take advantage of this period to take concrete steps towards the realization of certain ideals of yours. Don’t think you’re not up to it or don’t have enough energy. Start with small things and with the constancy of going ahead with small actions, you end up having changed your whole life. This month there will be good opportunities to take the first step.

Be ready for action with this sequence: 

Ardha-Matsyendra-āsana, half Matsyendra pose. The pose makes you feel a sense of pride and dignity, giving you joy and good mood. // 1-2 min. per side.

Vīrabhadra-āsana II, second variation. Vīrabhadra is one of Śiva’s terrifying forms, a symbol of strength, determination and self-assertion. It’s a pose of courage and action, that’s what you need to launch yourself into any endeavour. // 1-2 min. per side.

Garuda-āsana, eagle pose. Focus on what you want, set your goals even if they seem to be far away. // 1 min per side.

TOTAL TIME: from 6 to 10 minutes.

MANTRA of the MONTH: «I believe in my projects».