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Techniques for Harmonious Personal Connections by DAVID POND Llewellyn Publications $17.95 (softcover) yoga instructor and astrologer
Astrology is a useful tool that reveals the simple truth, despite the ego’s self-aggrandizement or denial about the self. Planetary energies influence us, whether we are aware of them or not. Making use of any tool that offers us understanding of our intrinsic nature and heightens our awareness when combined with intention empowers us to reach our highest potential. Being in tune with our selves then allows us to more easily be in harmony with others. Astrology & Relationships is not an astrological cookbook on the discipline’s traditional methods of relationship analysis. As the subtitle suggests, it is an insightful look at basic planetary energies operating within the birth chart using a variety of "Techniques for Harmonious Personal Connections." This is a self-help workbook, with exercises borrowed from psychology and Eastern spiritual wisdom such as yoga, breathing, chakras, meditation, Aikido, and the I Ching, designed to explore and develop your personal nature and assist you to understand others. Each chapter is devoted to a specific planet, with a description of its basic nature and exercises to raise your awareness as to how you are utilizing the particular planetary energy. After you have acquired a greater understanding of the planet, additional information is provided on how it presents itself in each of the signs. Here is where you will get a truthful glimpse of your fundamental nature, areas to work on, and how to understand this energy in others. The appendix has an easy-to-use ephemeris covering the years from 1900–2005 to aid those that may not know the signs the planets are in for themselves or another. There is also a free natal chart offered by mail from Llewellyn Publications with your purchase of this tome. Even though I possess some knowledge of astrology, the thought of honestly evaluating my shortcomings and consciously put the techniques into practice filled me with a brief feeling of trepidation. Practical application of the exercises is the fundamental key to my personal evolution; as they say, "knowledge without works is dead." Since I was simply reviewing this book, did it mean that I had to apply the principles outlined? I know that there was a reason this book ended up in my hands: the universe had decided that it was time for me to get to work! After reading through just a few of the chapters, there were several exercises I could choose from to improve the less-developed aspects of my nature. (Ouch!) Besides being willing to scrutinize myself, I have also made the choice to be vulnerable with those who know me well and love me anyway! My partner is willing to practice some of the exercises with me that will support and enhance our relationship. After achieving a modicum of success by myself and with my partner, I plan to approach each of my children in the hopes their agreeing to practice exercises that will improve our relationships as well. To better your self and transform your relationships, you must be willing to shed light on the veils that obscure your soul, take the time to read and reflect, be vulnerable, and put the various techniques into practice. Only then will you get the most out of this book, your self, and your casual and most intimate relationships, even from life itself. The effects may well ripple out in ever-widening circles from you — and me — to help create a more harmonious world. Consider the unlimited possibilities! It all begins with the individual. The choice is yours. |
I walked
away from The New Times’ office with David Pond’s
book Astrology & Relationships joyously clutched to
my chest. I am familiar with David’s work, having attended
a lecture he presented on astrology several years ago and, more,
recently having read his book on chakras, Chakras for Beginners.
His wit and sincerity enliven his work. He is a man who walks
his talk, so I was eager to read his latest publication. As I
approached my car, my intuition revealed that one must first
build a relationship with one’s self. My feeling was quickly
validated as I perused the book’s introduction before driving
off. I continued to glance at the book during my ride home as
if to glean more insights through visual osmosis!