Even though Vedic astrology, or Jyotish, has been practiced in the West for over twenty years many people still know very little about it and see it as an unfamiliar and/or confusing system of knowledge. Adding to the confusion is the common perception that Western astrology is more psychological and Vedic Astrology is more spiritual.

I personally believe that a great deal of insight can be derived from either system. In order to grow spiritually we must have an understanding of our psychological blocks as well as our greater spiritual identity. In competent hands, Western astrology is extremely useful in understanding family of origin issues, core negative imprinting, and blocks to full self-expression.

As we start to get perspective on the past and heal some of the wounds of the personality there is a natural desire to understand the true meaning of our individual existence. In other words we start to askwhat am I here for? What is my life purpose? What is my mission on Earth this lifetime? These questions, of course, are at the heart of each persons quest..to realize our timeless, eternal nature and to see how to express that self-knowledge fully in the world.

Depending on whether the Vedic astrologer actually practices what they preach, Vedic astrology can take the quest for understanding of our life purpose or dharma to a whole other level. If, however, the Vedic astrologer is not deeply immersed in their own spiritual path (sadhana), then what you get from a Vedic astrologer will not be any better than what youd get from a Western astrologer, and actually could be much worse!

Using Vedic Astrology from a higher level of consciousness, the Vedic astrologer can help clients understand their highest dharma in this lifetime. The beauty of Vedic Astrology is that it is part of an integrated 5,000 year old tradition that includes yoga and ayurveda. Drawing from the wisdom of the ancient Vedic knowledge received through rishis (seers), Vedic Astrology not only reveals the individual dharma (svadharma) but reveals how to deal with karmas created in the past that are unfolding in the present.

Used consciously, both systems of Astrology can be used for the highest levels of understanding and healing. At the essential level, Western astrology and Vedic astrology have the same purpose..to eliminate suffering through understanding and to reveal our true purpose and eternal identity.

James Jarvis, M.A. is a transpersonal counselor, master astrologer, and LifeQwest Coach who specializes in helping you "Design the Life of Your Dreams." Sign up for James' bi-monthly LifeQwest E-zine and receive a free 12-page report, "Keys to Right Livelihood" plus Monthly Horoscope, Articles, Tips & Discounts on his services.

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