Who is Alcyone?

Capturing the Pleiades: the 3000 year old Nebra Sky disc, and modern photography (R)

Alcyone is the brightest star of the Pleiades star cluster. 

The Pleiades, aka Seven Sisters, is one of the easiest constellations to spot and can be seen anywhere in the world. Even the curse of light pollution cannot obscure the Pleiades.

Alcyone and the Pleiades were a harbinger of peace (hence the phrase ‘halcyon days’, a period of calm) and guided ancient Greek mariners to safety. 

Alcyone and the Pleiades were known as the Star Seeds by the Zuni in New Mexico, and guided them to plant their crops in spring. 

How can Stars guide you today?

We still use the stars above to understand where we are and to help us navigate through uncertainty and difficulty. 

Regardless of whether you ascribe to astrology or astronomy, the ritual of gazing heavenward and finding something familiar has a measurably positive effect on your body. 

Studies show the many positive benefits when we spend time in nature, including star-gazing:

• Improved immunity
• Faster healing and recovery
• A sense of purpose
• Increased happiness
• A sense of wholeness and connection
• Less depression
• Improved focus

Years ago, I lived and worked  in a very big city. My life was dark, both inside and out. I spent my days in dark subway tunnels and under fluorescent lighting, my nights in under lit nightclubs, and my weekends oversleeping under the covers. 

Then one day, I got really sick. I knew something had to change, or I wasn’t going to make it. 

I started by spending more time outside. Instead of a ride on the subway, I commuted by foot three miles into Manhattan so I could be with the sun, the clouds, the rain and the snow. 

And it worked. I started feeling better. Beyond also getting exercise, I simply felt more connected to something greater than me, and that was Mother Nature herself. I realized I could connect to what was beyond me and simply feel more comforted that I was not alone. 

The gift of Alcyone 
During times of upheaval and loss, nature tirelessly gifts us answers and solutions. The sky, and all the celestial bodies above, are our guides throughout time and across all cultures. Alcyone, brightest star of the Pleiades, is one such guiding light. She inspires me to stay connected to the whole, to serve to the benefit of others and to promote peace.