On Wednesday, February 12, the full moon will illuminate Aśleṣā Nakshatra (pronounced Uh-shlay-sha), a lunar mansion deeply connected to the serpent’s energy — both its venom and its wisdom.
This celestial event brings an opportunity for transformation, attraction, and deep introspection. But, as with all things linked to the serpent, it carries a dual nature: one path leads to awakening, the other to entanglement.
The Power of the Serpent: Liberation or Entrapment?
Aśleṣā Nakshatra is ruled by the Sarpa Devatas, the serpent deities. Across many ancient traditions, serpents symbolize both destruction and healing, bondage and liberation.
The shadow side of this nakshatra is the Sarpa energy — deceptive, obsessive, and ensnaring. It can manifest as manipulation, secrecy, and desires that entangle rather than free. This full moon can lure us into the Sarpa’s snare, drawing us into cycles of power struggles, seduction, and illusion.
Yet, there is another path: the path of the Nāga, the higher serpent. Nāgas are protectors of wisdom and spiritual power. Walking this path grants intuitive clarity, psychological depth, and the ability to channel power constructively.
This energy mirrors the Kundalini force — a coiled serpent resting at the base of the spine, tied to Shakti, the divine feminine power. This full moon is an ideal time to explore Kundalini energy and unlock its transformative potential.
Shakti: Feminine Power That Requires Grounding
Shakti is the raw, primal force of creation — sensual, creative, and life-giving. However, when ungrounded, it can become chaotic, like an untamed wildfire. This is why ancient traditions stress caution in awakening Kundalini.
When properly harnessed, Shakti facilitates deep transformation. If left unchecked, it can distort reality, leading to obsession and emotional turbulence.
This is especially relevant as we consider the planetary influences at play.
Venus in Pisces: Boundless Love and Deep Connection
During this full moon, Venus, the planet of love and sensuality, is in Pisces, its exaltation sign. This placement enhances spiritual love, deep emotional bonds, and transcendental experiences. It is an opportune moment for heart-centered practices, sacred sexuality, and mystical exploration.
Aśleṣā’s innate wisdom, coupled with Venus in Pisces, opens a gateway to intuitive insights. It encourages us to explore the deeper dimensions of love and connection.
Rahu’s Influence: A Word of Caution
However, there is a disruptive force at play.
Rahu, the celestial shadow planet, is conjunct Venus and casting its aspect onto the Moon. While Venus in Pisces embodies divine love, Rahu distorts, exaggerates, and confounds. It inflates the ego, fosters illusions, and can create insatiable cravings.
This planetary combination urges discernment. The boundaryless love of Venus in Pisces can be uplifting, but Rahu’s influence can turn it into obsession, escapism, or deception.
To maintain balance during this full moon (and in the days surrounding it), consider these grounding practices:
- Avoid intoxicants like alcohol and drugs, as they amplify Rahu’s confusing energy.
- Minimize screen time, especially social media, to counter Rahu’s restless nature.
- Engage in grounding activities, such as breathwork, meditation, or spending time in nature.
Final Reflections
This full moon carries immense potency. It is magnetic and seductive, offering profound transformation, yet it also holds elements of instability due to Rahu’s influence and the Sun and Moon being on the verge of changing signs.
Whether you choose to engage in spiritual exploration, sacred intimacy, or quiet self-reflection, be intentional with your energy. The choice is yours: to embrace the wisdom of the Nāga or get caught in the chaos of the Sarpa.
