Characteristics Of The Moon And Cancer

'The moon is phlegmatic. She is learned and has a round body. She has auspicious looks and sweet speech, is fickle-minded, and very lustful.'

• Bṛhat Parāśara Hora Śāstra

Symbol: The crab

Element: Water

Ruling Planet: Moon/Candra

Ayurvedic constitutiok: Kapha(earth and water)

Healing stone: Pearl

The symbol of cancer is a crab, an animal whose carapace covers a soft belly. In the same way, the native protects itself from the outer world and tends to be secretive, shy and discreet.

This sign stands for the four states of consciousness in which we live, symbolized by the moon: Jāgrat (wakeful state), Svapna (the dream state), Suṣupti (deep sleep) and Samādhi (deep meditation). The moon is a changing planet; it waxes and wanes, and its movements are representative of the principle of time and space in the Universe.

Those born under Cancer operate in the inner world with a strong emotional nature, as well as the outer world, as it enjoys being active.

Its natives are often uncertain of their power and potential. They need to build up self-confidence. They are friendly, caring, show sympathy; they are nurturing and have motherly qualities. They like to be surrounded by people, with whom they can share their feelings and affection. Often, they become too emotionally sensitive and dependant on others. They can become much attached, which can make them nervous and weak. Their imagination and visualization is powerful and receptive; they have the power to create and realize their dreams.

Very talkative, the sign will be honest in its relationships and unbending once it has made up its mind to something. Once cancer feels confidence about himself, he will show pro-active behavior, initiative and power to shine over others like the moon, and can have great influence over masses.