Vidhya Mitra is the best place to Learn Vedic Astrology Online for Free in the easiest manner so this Weapon of Lord Vishnu can be used in a Constructive way in your life. Vidhya Mitra brings you all the Astrology Combination Predictions, Complete Vedic Astrology Resources along with Modern Implementations and unlocking Nakshatras which is the most important aspect of Astrology.
The Sanskrit word “Graha” means “that which grasps.” The Grahas grasp our consciousness, and the astrological condition of a particular Graha represents our state of consciousness in the areas of life “held” by that Graha. The nine Grahas (planets) which are important to learn Vedic Astrology are called Surya (the Sun), Chandra (the Moon), Mangal (Mars), Budha (Mercury), Guru (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Shani (Saturn), Rahu (Northern lunar node), and Ketu (Southern lunar node). These names are listed in Sanskrit, to encourage you to become familiar with their original names. The Sanskrit names/sounds are said to correspond more accurately to the actual properties of the Grahas. For example, when you consistently use the term "Shukra" your brain will be able to get to the true significance better than when you use "Venus". Most texts on Jyotish use the word "planets" instead of Grahas. Since the Sun, the Moon, Rahu, and Ketu are technically not planets, it is more correct to call them Grahas.
The Nakshatras Just like the Rashis, the Nakshatras also break up the zodiac into equally spaced segments. There are 27 Nakshatras, each taking up 13'20". The Nakshatras are also called Lunar mansions, as the Nakshatra position of the Moon is an important use of Nakshatras. Each Nakshatra has a symbol, various attributes, and a planetary ruler. Nakshatras divide the zodiac to reveal a more subjective cycle that is particularly relevant to understand our awareness and perception. The qualities of the Nakshatras are mostly derived from the symbols and mythological associations indicated in the Vedas.
The most widespread use of Nakshatras is through the unique system of Dashas. Dashas are planetary cycles that divide life into major time periods, and each of those time periods in sub-periods. Each Dasha period has a precise starting and ending date, and during that period the influence of one of the Grahas (the Dasha lord) will be felt more pronounced. Therefore, the prime use of the Nakshatras is to determine when the Rashi-based interpretations will manifest. The Dasha system forms the link between our nakshatra based cycle of experience that activates our Rashi based potential.