Jaguar Nights Mayan Aztec Calendar book series

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Trecenas

1-13 in mayan with glyphs by Michael Giza

The sacred calendar (Tzolkin) is divided into groups of 13 days, called trecenas (the Spanish term for a group of thirteen; what the Mesoamericans called these periods is unknown). Each 260-day Tzolkin round has 20 trecenas.

The Trecena Ruler, a traditional designation, changes every thirteen Tzolkin days. It is always numbered one with a different day-sign glyph for each trecena. The ruler designates the focus of that period. Each trecena has its own personality and theme, adding another layer of energy to those 13 days.

Our focus should align with each trecena’s theme to be in harmony with its energy. Since each trecena is a complete mini-cycle utilizing all thirteen numbers, it offers a new opportunity to synchronize yourself with the Tzolkin.

The wavelike energy of each trecena changes character with each number. From one to six, the energy is building, at seven it is balanced and most useful, and after that it is almost too powerful to work with. (See the numbers section.) Imagine a pyramid-shaped wave, with one on the bottom to the left, seven as the pinnacle, and 13 on the bottom right.

It outlines a process, from start to finish. If you have a small task to complete, that would take about 13 days, try to time it to an appropriate trecena. For instance, the trecena of water (Muluc/Atl) has a theme of purification, so then would be a good time to do a few days of seasonal cleaning.

Even if you cannot time your work to the most suitable period, try to begin on a low number and end on a high number, and know that you’ll feel most inspired during days six through eight.