Ardhanarishvara: The Shiva and Shakti within you- Masculine & Feminine Energies
It is believed that the universe is created by and made up of masculine (Shiva) and feminine (Shakti) energies that infuse all things. Both energies exist within each of us in varying amounts.
Ardhanarishvara is symbolism of the interconnectedness and harmony of seemingly opposing forces in the cosmos. It is often translated as “The Lord Who is Half Man (Shiva), and half Woman(Shakti or Aadishakti).”
This form symbolizes the inseparable and complementary nature of the masculine and feminine energies in the universe. Masculine and feminine energies, as Ardhanarishvara, represent qualities associated with masculinity and femininity in human beings as represented by dynamic forces in the universe.
Astrology and Energies
As per Hindu philosophical traditions, they represent the interplay of cosmic forces, creativity, and the dynamic nature of the divine.
Therefore, it can also be predicted and represented from your birth charts. In astrology, they describe the polarities or qualities associated with different signs, elements, and planets. For example, fire and air signs are often considered masculine, representing assertive, outward, and dynamic qualities, while earth and water signs are considered feminine, representing receptive, nurturing, and inward qualities.
The moon is often associated with feminine energy, cooling quality, white colour, water elements, and intuitive processes. And the sun is associated with masculine energy, heat, the colour red, the element of fire, and intellect.
The masculine energy is often associated with the unchanging and transcendental aspect of the divine, while the feminine energy is associated with the dynamic, creative, and manifesting aspect. It is a fundamental aspect of cosmic balance and the source of all creation.
Determining your energies as per your birth chart
Examining which energy dominates your astrological birth chart involves examining the planetary placements regarding their feminine and masculine qualities. Ideally, a balanced chart would have an equal number of feminine and masculine placements, creating harmonious duality. However, most charts tend to lean towards one energy over the other. If your chart’s planetary placements are evenly divided, you have a more neutral chart. If there are more masculine placements than feminine, your chart is more masculine dominant. Conversely, if there are more feminine placements than masculine, your chart is more feminine dominant.
Role of Energies in Attraction and Relationships
Attraction in relationships is heavily influenced by masculine and feminine energy. It’s essential to have a clear polarity to build attraction. Imagine two opposite poles of a magnet, and they attract each other. Similarly, when two individuals with different energies come together, their attraction and connection can be intense. The more different the energies of the individuals involved, the stronger the attraction can be. So, if you want to build a solid and healthy relationship, finding someone whose energy complements yours is important. Remember, you deserve the best in your relationships.
Sexual polarity = physical chemistry = the magnetic pull you feel when you meet someone with an energy opposite your own.
Finding Your Balance
We all embody both but will generally have a dominant or “core energy”. To be a complete human being or a better person, we must have balanced masculine and feminine traits. The goal in astrology is often seen as achieving a balance between these energies for personal growth and fulfilment rather than conforming to gender stereotypes.
Qualities and Benefits of Feminine Energy
Sacred feminine energy, or Shakti, pulsates through you the following:
- Empathetic
- Intuition
- Nurturing
- Creativity
- Adaptability
- Receptivity i.e. embracing emotions without judgement
- Fluidity
- Softness
- Openness
- Devotion
- Compassionate
- Supportive
- Understanding
Feminine energy is flowing and dynamic. Its movements cannot be predicted or always explained with a rational mind. This energy is not constrained by social norms because it does not follow any rules other than the guidance that comes from the heart. It’s also about being creative, intuitive, and empathetic in nature.
Qualities and Benefits of Masculine Energy
Sacred masculine energy or Shiva similarly pulsates through you, the following
- Leadership
- Analytical Thinking
- Action oriented
- Reasoning
- Logical
- Adventurous
- Strength
- Loyalty
- Firmness
- Confident
- Focussed
- Pride & Honour
- Efficient
- Powerful
- Caretaker
Masculine energy is about doing and being action-oriented. Masculine energy is stable and more predictable. The strengths are will, clarity, and focus. The masculine energy likes to create structures and rules, so it knows how to apply logic properly. It’s about being logical and governed by rationale, focused, and analytical.
It’s important to emphasize that these associations are symbolic and do not prescribe specific traits based on gender. Everyone, regardless of gender, is believed to have a unique combination of these energies in their astrological chart.
