Psyched in Stilettos

GODDESS OF THE MONTH: Tara

Known for: Peace and protection

Origin: Hindu

What’s her story? Tara (“star” in Sanskrit) appears in Buddhism, Jainism and Tibetan Lamaism, as well as ancient cultures all over the earth. The Celts called their Great Goddess Tara; in South America, she was Tarahumara; in Ancient Egypt, the goddess IshTar; in Latin, “Terra” (Mother Earth); she was a sea goddess for the Polynesians; and there’s even a 5 million year old reference to her in an ancient Finnish saga. Born from her mother's single tear-drop of compassion for humanity's suffering, Tara traditionally represents eternal light, love, empathy, purity, peace, playfulness, protection and life force. She is considered to be a female Buddha who can take human form.

How can Tara help me during May? This beautiful goddess answers human pleas for assistance, so call upon her during times of suffering. She also embodies inner peace, “oneness” and spiritual acceptance, urging you to remain ‘centred’ and nurture your spirit within. Tara gently reminds up that all things pass, and that each moment is perfect. If you’re feeling rushed, stressed or obsessive about time, Tara can help you let go and embrace the Now moment. Read Eckhardt Tolle’s The Power of Now to truly understand Tara’s message.

Action plan:

* There are many different ‘Taras’ who you can invoke for different purposes, such as Red Tara (magnetising all good things), Yellow Tara (wealth and prosperity), and Green Tara (overcoming obstacles; protection from physical and spiritual danger).

* Some Tibetan Buddhists practice a morning meditation called Tara Practice, in which a mantra (Om Tare Tu Tare Ture Soha) is recited and a mala of sandalwood, bodhi-seeds or malachite beads is used. Reciting it 10,000 times brings magical blessings.

* Tara first appeared rising from a lotus blossom in a mythological lake, and often represents the virtues of success in work and achievements. Why not bring a bunch of creamy lotus flowers into your workplace?