The mystical ninth nakshatra, Ashlesha also resides entirely within the sign of Cancer. It consists of a circle of six stars in the constellation of Hydra, the female water snake. Ashlesha means “the clinging star” with a desire “to embrace” or “entangle” the object upon which it is focused. This lunar mansion is symbolized by a coiled snake and its deity is Ahi, the naga or serpent of wisdom. Its primary motivation is dharma. Ashlesha represents the kundalini or serpent fire that is located at the base of the spine. When activated, this energy can bring mystical power, electrifying shakti and spiritual enlightenment. Ashlesha people may have “snake eyes” that can penetrate to the depths of understanding and explore the steamy deep hole in the soul. The serpent is a symbol of divine wisdom, procreation, sexuality, and prosperity as well as danger, trouble and unexpected attack. In Ashlesha, the serpent energy must be respected and harnessed. It has the power to inflict with poisonous venom. Ashlesha has the ability to paralyze its enemies with its hypnotic gaze. Ashlesha is ruled by the planet Mercury and inhabits the sign of the Crab, ruled by the Moon. Since both of these planets are mental in nature, the creation of a deeply philosophical, thoughtful, penetrating and intelligent mind can occur. A reclusive, austere, independent and self-reliant attitude is observed. Interestingly, a male cat is the animal symbol for this nakshatra. A magnetic, sensual, seductive nature may be present. Marilyn Monroe had this lunar mansion as her rising nakshatra. Ashlesha people may have a fascination with exploring sexuality, where natal Moon resides here. The shadow side of Ashlcsha is mental instability, worry, fear, and a melancholy mind. Ashlesha is sharp in nature. Issues with anger and a hot temper may occur. It is considered a good nakshatra for creating separation such filing for a divorce or ending a business partnership. Ashleshans cannot tolerate any kind of personal humiliation. Due to the Mercury/Moon influence, a sensitive nervous system, psychic vulnerability and self-deception may be present. They are crafty, elusive and have a tendency to lie when it serves their needs. Ashlesha brings divine restlessness, but also transcendental aspirations. In this lunar mansion pain is inevitable, suffering is optional. They have difficulty controlling their diet. Mahatma Gandhi who had his natal Moon in Ashlesha spent most of his life trying to purify and restrain his eating habits. Ashlesha people must cultivate a sense of gratitude and courage to face reality and life exactly as it is, rather than as they would like it to be.