This period from March 2 to April 12 — when Venus is retrograde in Aries, the sign associated with individuality and the self — is the perfect time to commit to a traditional 40-day sadhana, with an emphasis on self-compassion.

If I’m being honest, I was a little too eager in my earlier days to teach. Maybe what I’m noticing in others — the premature rush to be a teacher — is a mirror held to my own hastiness. I wish I could go back to 2007-2008 and say, slow down, you’re of no use to anyone if the teachings have yet to fully flower in you, if you haven’t yet worked out your own psychological and spiritual shortcomings. Germinate. Sprout. Bathe in the nectar first. Then share from that reservoir of wisdom. Don’t don the mantle of teacher because it strokes your ego.