Ayurveda addresses the well-being of the entire being - physical, psychological and spiritual - in an approach to health and healing that is as relevant to the modern world as it was to the ancient world from which it emerged. Herbs and minerals, nutrition and purification, affirmative ways of living are a few of the ways in which Ayurveda treats not just the ailment but the whole person, emphasising prevention of disease to avoid the need for cure. The Ayurvedic principles and practices outlined in this book form a sound basis for accessing optimal health in balance.

Some are born under a star, Some are born seeing stars.

Building on some of the best principles from both Eastern and Western astrological traditions, authors Hart de Fouw and Robert E. Svoboda present a synthesized approach to horoscope compatibility analysis, developed over years of experimentation. This approach blends principles of analysis familiar to those who have studied Indian astrology with lesser-known techniques culled from the classic texts and oral traditions of Jyotisha. Their technique bridges the chasm between Western horoscope comparison and the culture-specific traditions of Indian astrology.

De Fouw and Svoboda provide sample charts to illustrate the techniques they use; they examine compatibility issues, and look at the strength or potential of a relationship. The authors maintain that your chart outlines your fate only in that it reflects your traits and ideals -- karmas dictated by past actions and conditioning -- which can be mediated by exercising free will. Chart analysis then becomes a useful tool for self-awareness when examining a relationship: what strengths complement each other and what weaknesses will require conscious work.

A nodding acquaintance with the principles presented in Light on Relationships will make it easier for you to understand the Indian relationship paradigm; a thorough study of the techniques and examples can provide you with valuable tools for evaluating all types of human relationships. This is a most valuable book for contemporary students of Jyotisha and for all astrologers who want to work with relationship potential.

Dr. Svoboda's original work on the constitutional types in Ayurveda has been considered a classic for many years. His new revision and expansion of the subject comes after much further research and practical experience. Dr. Vasant Lad points out: "The healing science of Ayurveda is based totally upon the knowledge of "prakriti," the individual constitution. If every individual knows his own constitution, then one can understand, for instance, what is a good diet and style of life for oneself. One man's food is another man's poison. Therefore, to make one's life healthy, happy and balanced, the knowledge of constitution is absolutely necessary." (Dr. Vasant Lad is the author of Ayurveda: The Science of Self-Healing, and co-author of The Yoga of Herbs.)

Light on Life brings the insight and wisdom of Indian astrology to the Western reader. Jyotish, or Indian astrology, is an ancient and complex method of exploring the nature of time and space and its effect upon the individual. Formerly a closed book to the West, the subject has now been clarified and explained by Hart de Fouw and Dr. Robert Svoboda, two experts and long-term practitioners. In Light on Life they have created a complete and thorough handbook that can be appreciated and understood by those with very little knowledge of astrology.

The telling of mythic stories has always been a powerful form of therapy, bringing healing to people facing adversity. The greatness of Saturn is such a therapeutic myth, told and retold through many centuries. Taken from the East Indian Vedic tradition, it honors the planet Saturn, who personifies time, limitations, loss, and all forms of adversity.