New Moon in Pūrvāṣāḍhā: The Invincible Star

AMĀVÁSYĀ NEW MOON

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December 30/31st

As the year culminates, the new moon aligns the sun and moon in the Vedic lunar mansion of Pūrvāṣāḍhā पूर्वाषाढा (Sagittarius), the Invincible Star. This lunation invites us to distill recent clarity into an elevated and refreshed timeline.

Pūrvāṣāḍhā, ruled by the water goddess Apah, is said to be the birth star of Goddess Sarasvatī, the one who awakens us to our true essence. Beyond the life-giving and nurturing qualities of water, this constellation is deeply associated with purification—cleansing impurities and transmuting disease.

As one of the birth stars of Maṅgal Graha (Mars), which naturally ascends to prominence, this constellation carries the desire for lasting victory and authorship of a new timeline—to be the one who narrates the story. This victory is achieved by aligning our priorities with the deeper truths now being revealed.

This renewal brings rejuvenation—sustaining, energizing, and encouraging growth. Pūrvāṣāḍhā promises victory when your focus is attuned to life-sustaining forces. What poisons in your life need to be transmuted into a source of healing?

Full power mode engaged—big energy is landing with the stationing of Mercury and Saturn, in ushering in heightened synchronicities as we reset the Gregorian calendar. These past few months have provoked an unsettling churning, like turbulent tides stirring deep inner shifts and transformations that you may still be digesting and integrating. This new moon punctuates the lessons you’ve been dancing with and begins to take root in the days and weeks ahead.

Like the winnowing basket—a symbol of this constellation—used to separate the husk from grain, this cycle encourages shedding unnecessary obstacles to reveal the useful portion “inside.” This may relate to people, places, or things. Stay attuned to deep listening and the wise guidance that may be bestowed upon you during this time.

New Moons are inherently supportive of meditation and introspection. Contrary to common belief, the period just twenty-four hours after the New Moon, specifically during the first tithi (Pratipadā/S1), presents a particularly auspicious opportunity for setting intentions and initiating new beginnings.

Which timeline is calling for your full and unconditional commitment? Slow and steady—be measured in your approach, as you are now building for the long game.

All My Relations

Ananda Mayi Ma ‘Love is everlasting forgiveness. Wisdom is to see everything in relation to the whole. If you understand that everything belongs to Him, you will be free of all burdens.’

Full Moon in Aśvinī: The Star of Transport

FULL MOOn पूर्णिमा

Artwork by @chaya.collective - Aśvinī Kumaras

October 17th 13:26 Spain | 4:26 AM PST

 

The full moon (Pūrṇimā ) of October aligns with the first Vedic lunar mansion in the zodiac, Aśvinī (Aries), known as the star of transport. With the new moon in Hasta finding its culmination here, this period becomes a potent time, charged for new beginnings and the initiation of forward movement with your projects and plans.

Aśvinī holds the spark of latent power, igniting the unmanifest into manifestation. Ruled by the Aśvinī Kumāras, the celestial physicians to the Gods, this nakshatra embodies healing, rejuvenation, and the power of alternative medicine. Symbolized by the head of a horse, it carries the vitality and eagerness to start the journey and express ideas with a swift and determined energy. Initiatives taken now, especially those related to health and healing, are said to bear rapid results, harnessing the potency of creation itself.

Artwork: Pinterest

There’s a desire here for a fresh start and rebirth, one that lays the foundation for something enduring. This is attainable through unwavering focus and a commitment to the inner and outer purifications that may have kept you in a holding pattern. This constellation carries the swift momentum to achieve one’s objectives, much like its animal totem, the horse.  Just as the racehorse wears blinders to avoid distraction or misstep, we too must maintain singular focus, centered in our own lane. Let us remain resolute — unmoved by the opinions, expectations, or noise of the waking dream and world around us — steadfast in the pursuit of what truly matters.

Like a doorway wide open, we enter the final month of Saturn's retrograde, now in Śatabhiṣā. Take advantage of this moment to see things a little more clearly. This period offers a second chance to revisit unresolved matters from early March and April, with a fresh perspective—inviting you to approach them with newfound clarity and refined sense of mastery. 

With Jupiter also retrograde in Mṛgaśirā, the Searching Star, we are called inward—to recalibrate our inner compass and deepen our quest for truth and wisdom. This is a time for introspection, for refining the tools we carry forward on our path, and for embracing the revelations that emerge from within.

Artwork: Pinterest - Rāsalīlā

This potent full moon marks the beginning of Kārttik, one of the most sacred months in the Vedic calendar, and is celebrated as Sharad Pūrṇimā. On this night, the moon is adorned with all sixteen celestial arts (kalas), enhancing its spiritual significance. Its healing and nurturing energies are believed to be at their peak, and its light is said to carry divine nectar, offering rejuvenation to those who bathe in its glow.

Legend tells of Lord Kṛṣṇa performing the divine Rāsalīlā with the gopis of Vṛndāvan under this luminous full moon, symbolizing the union between the devotee and the divine. 

The celebration also marks the end of the monsoon season. It is believed that Goddess Lakṣmī descends to Earth on this night—her devotees seek to become absorbed in her eightfold nature, offering their hearts in devotion and reverence.

Many will engage in moon-gazing, place homemade rice pudding (kheer) under the moonlight, or immerse themselves in devotion to Goddess Lakṣmī. These rituals harness the positive energies of the moon, inviting blessings of abundance, rejuvenation, and spiritual elevation into their lives.

ॐ श्रीं महा लक्ष्म्यै नमः

All my Relations

To book a private Vedic Astrology consultations, pleave visit: Jyotish Astrology

Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Pūrva Bhādrapadā: The Scorching Pair

FULL MOON LUNAR ECLIPSE

Pūrva Bhādrapadā

Artwork: Pinterest - Chinnamastā

September 17th, 19:35 PM PDT | 18th 4:35 AM Spain

Our last eclipse season of the year commences with a partial lunar eclipse (Candra Grahaṇam - चन्द्र ग्रहणं) on the 17th/18th of September, occurring in the Vedic lunar mansion of Pūrva Bhādrapadā पूर्वभाद्रपदा (Pisces), the Burning Pair.

Pūrva Bhādrapadā is symbolized by metamorphosis, rebirth, tapas (penance), perseverance, and the undifferentiated fire energy that has the capacity to raise our consciousness. This transit requires careful handling, as it is defined by the goals we set for ourselves and our full commitment to them. Eclipses welcome a time outside of time, creating potent moments for accelerated spiritual growth. 

Lunar eclipses are like doorways through which we can peer deeper into ourselves. The veil is thinning now, as if you’re awakening from a deep sleep. That which is ready to be healed is brought to the surface and revealed. Hidden energies are emerging. The impact of a lunar eclipse offers an instant reveal, while the solar eclipse on 10/2 will resonate for months to come, weaving the energetic tapestry that will shape the next six months of our journey—like an omen of the energies ahead.

Lunar eclipses occur when the Earth aligns precisely between the Sun and Moon, casting its shadow upon the lunar surface—a moment where light meets shadow, reflecting profound cosmic shifts. Typically, there are two eclipse seasons per calendar year (on rare occasions, three), each season bringing forth two or sometimes three eclipses. This phenomenon occurs because the Moon’s orbit is tilted relative to the ecliptic plane, crossing it only twice per year.

The points where the Sun and Moon intersect this ecliptic plane, positioned exactly 180 degrees apart, are known as the lunar nodes, or Rāhu and Ketu in Vedic Astrology. These shadowy grahas, often referred to as the 'great awakeners,' govern the eclipses and symbolize the dance between light and darkness within our lives. As the eclipse occurs, we are offered an opportunity to confront our shadows, disrupt old patterns, and awaken to deeper truths within our journey.

Utilize this time wisely, especially on the day of the eclipse—slow down, take a step back, pause, and go deeper than you’ve been willing to go before. Sit with and observe all that moves through you—this is the most important time to see into yourself. In ancient times, many would fast during the eclipse window (9/17, 17:41–21:47 PM PDT) and immerse themselves in a salt bath or the ocean, not only to purify their energies but to decompress the spine, allowing the body and mind to recalibrate.

This is a powerful time for our personal sādhana (practice)—it is said that any mantra or practice taken up during this time offers potency a thousandfold. I will personally be steeping in a simple āsana practice, accompanied by bhrāmarī prāṇāyāma (bumblebee breath—humming while holding the postures), followed by meditation, breathwork, kriya, mantra practices, a fast and an ocean swim once the eclipse is complete.

Symbolized by a male lion, sword and two-faced man representing both duality and transformation. The deity of this nakṣatra (constellation), Aja Ekapāda (one of the eleven Rudras - thundergods or forms of Lord Śiva), holds immense spiritual energy. Aja Ekapāda translates to “one-footed,” representing balance and stability amidst the chaos and duality of existence. It suggests the one-pointed foundation we’re seeking, which provides the ability to remain grounded and centered in the face of life’s upheavals. 

Artwork: Pinterest - Ardhanārīśvara

Holding the energy or power (Yajamana Udyamana Śakti) of elevation through sacrifice, or ‘giving away,’ can refer to offering one’s resources or self in the fire ceremony (the fire of tapas). This alchemical process of metamorphosis arises from balancing duality and achieving transformation through one-pointed spiritual discipline and sacrifice. This cycle is defined by how we manage large amounts of life force energy and our capacity to channel focus into a particular goal that supports inner growth. Another point of learning is cultivating satisfaction with what one already has.

Pay extra attention if you’re running a dasha (cycle) or sub-period of Rāhu, or if you have any planets sitting in Pūrva Bhādrapadā (Pisces)—especially your Moon or rising sign (lagna).

This eclipse is offering momentum and seeks to clear something out. Expect instant exposure to hidden truths and heightened emotions—be kind to yourself, your body and others. Don’t be too direct right now. ‘Not my monkey, not my circus,’ is a personal mantra of mine for eclipse season. Listen to the subtle energies coming forward now. Reassess your habits, patterns, and especially your health routines—take note of any warning signs from your body. 

Stay rested and keep life simple. This is a perfect time to release outdated patterns. Delay travel and public engagements on the day if possible. Postpone major decisions for about a week to allow energies to settle and integrate.

Pūrva Bhādrapadā seeks to bridge heaven and earth and holds the power to elevate through sacrifice. This sacrifice contains the energy to draw down spiritual power through tapasya and into the central channel. This energy rises to melt the hidden moon in our brain, gracing us and raining down blessings. Clarity is on its way.

For more personalized, in-depth guidance on how to navigate these celestial waters, please visit Jyotish Consultations to book a Vedic Astrology Consultation.

All My Relations

The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance. 

- Alan Watts

Published Article with Millential Magazine: How to Navigate the Spiritual Growth of the Sept. 17/18 2024 Lunar Eclipse

Gaṇeśa Caturthī

Gaṇeśa Caturthī

गणेश चतुर्थी 

Artwork: Basohli miniature, c. 1730. National Museum, New Delhi

Beginning on the fourth day (caturthī) of the bright fortnight (shukla pakṣa) in the month of Bhadrapadā (Aug-Sept), Gaṇeśa Caturthī is a festival that lasts for ten days, September 6/7 through Anant Caturdaśī (fourteenth day).

Salutations to Śrī Gaṇeśa who has a curved trunk, who has a large body and whose splendor is similar to that of a million suns; who is the son of Śiva and Pārvatī, the remover of obstacles and the writer of the story.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

O Deva, lord of new beginnings, please make my undertakings free of obstacles, by extending your blessings in all my works, always and may I remember to trust that when you place obstacles in my way, that you’re gently guiding me back to my most aligned path.

As the lunar cycles shift towards the waxing moon, the energy of Gaṇeśa Caturthī invites us to reflect on the celestial rhythms that mirror our inner journey. Gaṇeśa, revered as the deity who governs the threshold of beginnings, wisdom, and intelligence, represented by the brain stem in our physiology, the lord connected to Jyotiṣa (Vedic astrology) and the one who is associated with Ketu and Mercury. He rules over the planetary vibrations that guide us through transitions—encouraging us to see obstacles not as hindrances, but as divine redirections towards our true purpose. 

On this sacred day, devotees immerse themselves in fasting, chanting Vedic hymns and Hindu texts, offering sweets such as modak—believed to be the favorite of Lord Gaṇeśa—as prasada. The festival culminates on the tenth day with visarjana, when the Murti (depiction of a deity) is carried in a grand procession, accompanied by music and chanting, and immersed in a nearby body of water, symbolizing the cycle of creation and dissolution.

May this sacred festival remind us to surrender to the dance of the cosmos, trusting in the wisdom of Gaṇeśa to illuminate the path toward our highest purpose.

ॐ श्री गणेशाय नमः

Mercury Stations Direct in Āśleṣā: The Embracing Star

MERCURY DIRECT

Āśleṣā आश्लेषा | August 28th

Artwork: Pinterest

Mercury has danced over the gaṇḍānta point—the juncture between water and fire—twice in the last month, engaging with that karmic knot which holds immense potential. This retrograde has delivered the profound energy promised, urging many of us into deep introspection and processing. This subtle influence continues to invite us to remain open and patient as we learn the art of transmutation.

Mercury stationed retrograde in Maghā (Leo) on the 5th, moved back into Cancer on the 24th, and will station direct on the 28th in Āśleṣā, the Embracing Star (the position of August’s New Moon).

As Mercury stations direct in Āśleṣā, the celestial serpent releases its coils, inviting us to shed old patterns and embrace clarity. Āśleṣā, with its profound connection to the subconscious mind and the transformative power of the Nāga, asks us to reflect on the truths we’ve unearthed during Mercury’s retrograde journey.

Now is the time to communicate with authenticity, letting our words become vessels of healing and renewal. The subtle impulses of your intuition are reawakening now. Continue to distill down the wisdom and lessons that have been presenting themselves in the past few weeks. Trust in what lands and allow it to guide your path forward and establish a foundation of emotional resilience and intuitive insight.

Expect clarity to return to matters of home, family, and emotions. Communication will flow more smoothly, facilitating heartfelt connections and nurturing domestic harmony. On September 2nd, Mercury will once again cross into Leo (Maghā), revisiting the energies that carried over from July. For most, it would be wise to wait another couple of weeks for Mercury to move out of its retrograde shadow period before committing to forward momentum.

-All My Relations- 

To book a private consultation please visit: Jyotish Consultations

Slow things down and the before more beautiful - David Lynch 

Mercury Retrograde in Māgha

Mercury Retrograde

वक्री बुध

Artwork: Goddess Saraswti enthroned India, Pahari First half - 19th century 

August 4/5 - August 28

As Mercury stations retrograde (vakrī) tonight in the mystical and majestic Vedic Lunar Mansion of Māgha (Leo), the Star of Power, we enter a time of reflection and transformation. 

Buddha (Mercury), the fourth among the navagrahas (9 planets), embodies rajoguṇa (mode of passion) and pṛthvī tattva (earth element), is revered as the radiant son of the Moon (Chandra), known for his golden eyes, and being eternally energetic. He bestows discernment and is the karaka (significator) of intellect, eloquent speech, the nervous system, storytelling, the student, skill, neutrality, and balance.

This is a time to remember our ancestors and reflect on our interdependency with all things — to shine light on our inherited habits, cycles, and reactions as well as the legacy we’re leaving behind with the imprint of our thoughts, speech, and actions — whether conscious or unconscious.

There is intergenerational work to be done. For some of you, this may look like a baptism by fire that is requesting you to take a deeper look into healing your ancestral line and genetic code. We’re being requested to take responsibility for the cycles and habits that may have been left on repeat. 

Mercury will traverse the gaṇḍānta point (the karmic knot between water and fire) three times over the next month. This position holds immense power. Have the courage to use this cycle wisely, as the window to reflect, redo, and revise is open only for a limited time.

When we look at the origin of the word courage, it stems from the Latin word cor, meaning heart, and the original definition is to tell the story of who you are with your whole heart.

Be mindful of potential communication challenges, misunderstandings, and delays in creative projects. Revisit past decisions and reevaluate leadership styles with patience and care. It's essential to be thorough, allow extra time while traveling, and double-check information to prevent errors or misinterpretations.

Reflect on your relationship with stationing yourself in a seat of authority or perhaps with the responsibility that comes with claiming that seat. Rise above the collective narrative, put into practice the wisdom you’ve been cultivating that has now circled around — step fully into your individuality. 

For personalized guidance during this shift, book a private consultation here. Know that I am here to support you.

I’m also excited to announce that I’ll be offering a Masterclass on Jyotish Astrology on August 13th, online with Sacred Dynamics. Join us for a deep dive into Astrology 101, more info here: Vedic Astrology 101: Weaving the Golden Thread

All My Relations

David Loy // “One meaning of freedom is the opportunity to act out the story I identify with. Another freedom is the ability to change stories and my role within them.”

Rāhu in Uttara Bhādrapadā: The Warrior Star

Rahu's Transit into Uttara Bhādrapadā: Unveiling the Depths of the Subconscious

Artwork from Pinterest

The shadowy graha Rāhu, depicted as mounted on a lion, bluish-black and smoke in color, residing in the forest, eclipser of the luminaries, karaka (significator) of justice, courage, and mission, often associated with rebellion, the foreigner, and protector of Earth, enters the constellation of Uttara Bhādrapadā (sidereal Pisces), the Warrior Star, on July 8th.

Rahu's transit into Uttara Bhādrapadā, in the sidereal sign of Pisces, marks a profound journey through the realm of the unconscious. This lunar mansion, symbolized by the back of a funeral cot and a serpent of the deep, evokes a deep connection to the cycles of life and death, the fertility of both earth and sky. It is here, in the domain of Uttara Bhādrapadā, that Rahu weaves his enigmatic influence, guiding us to delve into the depths of our subconscious, to unearth hidden truths and embrace the wisdom that lies therein.

As Rahu traverses this celestial pathway, we are invited to harmonize with universal mind, to align our personal will with the greater cosmic order. This transit calls for introspection and a willingness to confront our shadows, to navigate the murky waters of our psyche with humility and self-sacrifice. It is through this process of excavation that we gain profound insights, transforming our inner landscape and fostering a deeper connection to the divine.

Uttara Bhādrapadā, ruled by the wise Saturn and situated in the realm of Jupiter, presents a dual energy, represented by the twin fishes swimming in the ocean of consciousness. This nakshatra embodies the duality of existence, the constant interplay between the spiritual and the material realms. It is the hero’s journey, marked by struggle, protection, and service, where the kshatriya spirit fights to find meaning and purpose amidst life’s challenges.

Within this nakshatra lies the wisdom of the serpent, a mystical force dwelling beneath the waters, carrying the ancient knowledge of Pisces. As Rahu enters this domain, the seeker encounters the serpent, embodying both wisdom and danger. The serpent’s bite, a metaphor for life’s trials, releases the poison of the material world, purging the toxins that hinder spiritual growth. This transformative pain is the catalyst for enlightenment, leading to moksha, the ultimate liberation.

Rahu, the asura who moves backward (heyoka energy), embodies the restless quest for knowledge and experience. In Uttara Bhādrapadā, Rahu’s influence is both malevolent and enlightening, revealing the illusions of the material world while urging us to create something meaningful from limited resources. This transit challenges us to confront our limitations, to embrace Saturn’s teachings of patience, resilience, and the practical wisdom of making the most of what we have.

As Rahu matures at 42, the struggle to balance the material and spiritual realms culminates in a profound realization. The trials faced, the poison endured, all contribute to the seeker’s journey towards enlightenment. It is through these experiences that we learn to transcend our earthly limitations, discovering the boundless potential within.

For those running a Dasha or sub-period of Rahu, or having natal planets in Uttara Bhādrapadā, the impact of this transit will be especially profound. The energies of Rahu will be strongly felt, intensifying the journey through the subconscious and magnifying the experiences of transformation and revelation. This period can bring about significant changes, urging a deeper exploration of one's inner world and a reevaluation of life's direction.

During this transit, let us remain steadfast in our spiritual pursuits, honoring the lessons of the past and preparing for the rebirth that follows the dissolution of the old. As we navigate Rahu’s passage through this mystical nakshatra, we attune to the subtle currents of our inner world, embracing the transformative power of introspection. In doing so, we open ourselves to the boundless wisdom of the cosmos, harmonizing our soul’s journey with the eternal dance of creation and dissolution.

For more personalized guidance on this long, impactful transit, know that I am here to support you and do offer one-on-one Vedic Astrology readings, which you can book here.

Ashadha Gupt Navarātri: Nine nights of Mother Divine

Ashadha Gupt Navarātri नवरात्रि | July 6th-15th

Artwork: Pinterest

Observed during the month of Ashad (June/July), this auspicious Hindu festival spans nine nights, honoring the nine incarnations of the goddess Durgā, revered as Śakti. Celebrated from the Pratipadā tithi (1st lunar day) to the Navamī tithi (9th) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon), this nine-day festival coincides with the onset of the monsoon season.

This festival is one of the two lesser-known navarātri’s celebrated each year, marking auspicious periods for worship dedicated to the divine feminine. "Gupta" signifies hidden or secret, reflecting the esoteric and inward-focused nature of this Navarātri. 

Dedicated primarily to Goddess Vārāhi, one of the seven (some say eight) mother goddesses (Saptamātṛkas) and consort (also known as Bhū Devi - personified earth) of Lord Vārahā (boar), the third incarnation of Lord Viṣṇu, Ashadha Gupt Navarātri holds profound spiritual significance and is also a time of importance for farmers seeking blessings for their crops. 

Goddess Vārāhi was born from the body of Lord Vārahā and has the face of a boar. She is said to be another form of Parvati, who holds the energy of Yama dev. Among the Das Mahāvidyā, she is Kamalā. She is depicted as riding a buffalo (or Tiger) and holding a staff in her hand. She is said to be the embodiment of knowledge (jñān) and the slayer of demons (ignorance), bestowing compassion and protection upon her devotees.

Many fast during the day, chant mantras to Goddess Durgā, including the Devī Māhātmyam (Durgā Saptashati), and some perform the Das Mahāvidyā sādhanas.

Aum Aim Hreem Kleem Chamundayai Vichche 

ॐ ऐं ह्रीं क्लीं चामुण्डायै विच्चे 

AKṢAYA TṚTĪYĀ: Day of Lasting Achievements

Akṣaya Tṛtīyā

अक्षय तृतीया

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Today marks the most auspicious day in the Vedic calendar, where both the luminaries, sūrya (sun) and chandra (moon) are in their exalted positions. Occuring on the third (tr̥tīyā) lunar day of the spring month of Vaiśākha, Akṣaya, meaning “never decreasing,” illuminates this day as a beacon of enduring accomplishments.

This auspicious occasion beckons new beginnings with unparalleled favorability, be it in the sacred bond of marriage, the initiation of ventures, the acquisition of gold or a new abode, or acts of benevolence. Such is its potency that the necessity of calculating an auspicious moment, known as muhūrta, becomes obsolete, for the entire day brims with divine blessings.

Today commemorates the denouement of the epochal Mahābhārata war, a pivotal event signaling the transition from Satyayuga, the golden age, to Tretāyuga, the silver era. It is also revered as the day when Lord Gaṇeśa and Veda Vyāsa commenced the writing of the Mahābhārata, and the moment when the celestial waters of river Gaṅgā decended from heaven to grace the earth realm.

This revered thiti (तिथि), or lunar phase, spans from 4:19 am 5/10 - 2:51 am 5/11 IST |  15:49 5/9 - 14:21 5/10 PST

New Moon in Bharaṇī: Star of Restraint

NEW MOON

अमावस्या

Artwork by Trisha Thomason Adams

May 7th 8:22 PM PST | 8th 8:52 AM IST

As we eagerly welcome the long awaited energies of May’s New Moon (Amāvásyā) aligned with the Vedic Lunar mansion of Bharaṇī भरणी (Aries), the Star of Restraint, we find ourselves standing at a doorway between worlds — a pivotal moment for purification and initiation into transformative new beginnings.

Bharaṇī Nakṣatra, associated with Yama Dev, the lord of the afterlife, beckons us to cleanse ourselves of impurities and embrace the germination of long-term plans and goals. It invites us to stand at the threshold, where the old is shed to make way for the new.

This lunation cycle marks the culmination of recent energies, revealing new aspects of ourselves and our lives—a delicate balance between self-discovery and interconnectedness.

We're being guided toward a revolutionary reconstruction—one that mirrors the assimilated revelations, lessons, and growth stemming from the encouraging turmoil of recent planetary shifts and changes.

Mercury is wrapping up its post-shadow period and awakens a huge potential for deep healing now. Notice what’s coming forward to be healed in order to usher in this next chapter. Jupiter's (Bṛhaspati) recent shift into Taurus prompts us to reflect on what truly nourishes us. It's a time for radical release, shedding what no longer serves us, to pave the way for rebirth.

This transformation will require forbearance, hard work and discipline, echoing the deeper wisdom found in the Yamas and Niyamas of the Yogasūtras. Exciting energies await us by the end of the month. Embrace this potent moment between sunrise and sunset, life and death. What leap are you willing to take?

For those seeking deeper insights and personalized guidance, I invite you to book a private consultation from my booking page. Let's navigate this potential for profound new beginnings together. All my relations - Tulsi 

Nisargadatta Maharaj // “Pain is physical; suffering is mental. Beyond the mind there is no suffering. Pain is essential for the survival of the body, but none compels you to suffer. Suffering is due entirely to clinging or resisting; it is a sign of our unwillingness to move on, to flow with life.”

Full Moon in Swāti: The Star of Self Actualization

Hanuman Jayantī

हनुमज्जयंती

Artwork from Pinterest

In northern India, today marks the auspicious occasion of Hanuman Jayantī, observed on the full moon (Purnima) in the month of Chaitra. Hanuman, the son of Vāyu (the wind god) and an ardent devotee of Rāmacandra, the seventh āvatār (incarnation) of Lord Viṣṇu, is regarded as the embodiment of unwavering devotion, courage, humility, friendship, strength, and selfless service.

The full moon reaches its zenith in the heart of Tulā (Libra) Rāśī (sign) on Tuesday evening (16:49 PST | 24th 5:19am IST), in the Vedic Lunar mansion of Swāti, the Star of Self actualization. 

With this full moon comes the fruition of the seeds planted at the time of the new moon in Revati (sidereal pisces). The new moon initiated a month of self sovereignty — a time for gathering details and holding a big picture perspective for that which we yearned to call into your life. As the full moon approached, many have been feeling exhausted and thirsty to embrace a shift.

The planetary combinations have been potent as of late. Both Mercury and Venus have been orbiting near the degree of the eclipse and the gaṇḍānta (karmic knot) point, situated at the culmination of the zodiac. Mercury has stationed and is poised to resume direct motion on the 25th, while Venus shifts into Meṣa (Aries) on the 24th. Mars moved into pieces today and Jupiter, having recently entered the constellation of Kṛttikā, will transition on the 30th, taking up its abode in Vṛṣabha (Taurus).

New awareness around love and relationships begin to dawn, healing of inner and outer divisions start to mend as this lunaation cycle accentuates a balance between individual growth and harmonious partnerships, highlighting the need for diplomacy and adaptability in achieving mutual understanding and progress.

Swati has the power to “scatter like the wind” — thus, we must stay adaptable yet firmly grounded. Loosen your grip on the idea that you have control over the outcome of your actions and act from a place of balance and responsibility — neither accepting nor resisting. Move beyond the idea of accomplishment and failure, winning and losing and know that big shifts take time. 

Saturn, renowned for his measured approach and capacity for restraint, finds exaltation in the constellation of Swāti. When our thoughts and focus disperse, our energy becomes scattered and immunity diminishes. When gathered, we're unstoppable. Saturn, ruler of the pañcavāyus (five yogic breaths), encourages us to exercise control over our breath, thereby harnessing our focus (dhāraṇā) and cultivating a strong foundation and mood of devotion.

As the tides shift and the storm begins to wane, focus your energy on the projects, people, and ideas that truly matter to you. Proceed with patience and release attachment to the fruits of your efforts — become self-sovereign in your listening and lean into the unknown. Remember the timeless wisdom of Lord Krishna in the Śrīmad Bhagavad Gītā, 'Act for the sake of action alone.' Become like Lord Hanuman, who is dear to Lord Viṣṇu — immerse yourself in the attitude of heart centered devotion, humility, and selfless service.

For my bi-monthly blog posts and more personalized guidance on how to navigate the current celestial waters, please visit the link in my bio to book a one on one consultation.

All my Relations
जय श्री राम

"This is love: to fly toward a secret sky, to cause a hundred veils to fall each moment. First to let go of life. Finally, to take a step without feet." - Rumi

Varāha Dvādaśī

VARĀHA DVĀDAŚĪ

वराह द्वादशी

Image: Pinterest

On the twelfth day of the bright half of Māgha marks the festival honoring Varāha Avatār, the third incarnation of the daśāvatāra (ten) of Lord Viṣṇu, the wild boar. Varāha Dev is one of the four full Paramātmās (supreme Self) whose story narrates how Lord Viṣṇu came to rescue Bhūdevī (Pṛthvī), Earth.

Varāha’s story begins with the doorkeepers of Lord Viṣṇu’s realm, Jaya and Vijaya, who were cursed by Lord Brahmā’s four sons to take human birth and incarnate on Earth. The curse would be lifted only if the two human forms were killed by the hands of Lord Viṣṇu himself, to which they agreed.

Image: Pinterest

One of the brothers, Hiraṇyākṣa, dragged Mother Bhūmi to the bottom of the cosmic ocean to attact Lord Viṣṇu’s attention. The Lord took the form of a boar in order to slay the demon king, rescue the Earth, and restore her to her rightful place in the universe.

Lord Viṣṇu, the maintainer of this world, takes birth age after age only when the balance on Earth has been disturbed. This incarnation of Varāha Dev is associated with the graha Rāhu (north node) in Vedic astrology, who is the karaka for justice, courage, truth, self-sacrifice, risking one’s life for a cause, going against the established order, the foreigner, and the protector of the Earth.

Image: Varaha with his consort Bhudevi, copper sculpture from Tamil Nadu. c. 1600

With his tusks, Varāha is said to have the ability to dig up any impurities in the heart. We ask Rāhu to protect our tounge.

ॐ वराहाय नमः।

Full Moon in Puṣyā: The Star of Nourishment

Pūrṇimā

Our first full moon of the year reaches its zenith on Thursday  (9:54am PST | 23:24 IST) in the Vedic Lunar Mansion of Puṣyā पुष्या (Cancer), the Star of Nourishment. This cycle holds the potential fulfillment and promise of the new moon in pūrvāṣāḍhā - the victory which comes through the efforts supported by the raw enegy and nourishment that awakens from one’s sādhanā - through continued purification and alignment with life-sustaining forces.

We all crave a sense of sovereignty within ourselves and furthermore yearn for belonging amongst tribe. This lunar mansion is symbolized by the milk-yielding udder of the cow, which is impartial to all that she nourishes. Without question, thought of return, or reason, the mother gives love unconditionally. If we can learn to lean into serving and showing up for others in a truly selfless way, we can begin to harness the mystical energies of this asterism.

The Shakti (power) of this nakshatra initiates the ability to harness creative and spiritual energy, which in turn provides the wisdom and abundance to nourish both the spiritual and material worlds. The wealth which we are seeking here is the spiritual energy or punya, which accumulates through tapasya and comes forward through the grace of divine guidance. Drinking from that reservior of energy helps us to direct our efforts in such a way that we’re able to protect our nervous system, our home, our country, as well as the nourishment needed to produce material abundance and not become side tracked or burnt out.

Puṣyā is one of the most favorable constellations for beginnings of all kinds (except marriage). This particular full moon holds extra blessings for engaging in spiritual practices, making significant purchases, planning important events and initiating new beginnings. 

Ground-down and get centered through breathwork, kriya, meditation, and japa (all wisdom and practices connected to Bṛhaspati - Lord of Sacred Speech). Connect with others through simple and nurturing activities, which uphold and support dhárma — such as home-cooked meals, being outdoors, moon gazing and in steeping in your spiritual practices.

For more in-depth guidance on how to navigate the current astrological energies, please visit: Jyotish Consultation

All my Relations 

Ananda Mayi Ma // Love is everlasting forgiveness. Wisdom is to see everything in relation to the whole. If you understand that everything belongs to Him, you will be free of all burdens. All sorrow comes from the sense of I and Mine. All sorrow is due to one’s keeping apart from God. When you are with Him all pain disappears. By sorrow does the Lord dispel sorrow and by adversity does he destroy adversity. When this is done he sends no more suffering, no more adversity. This must be remembered at all times.

Saturn Stations Direct in Dhaniṣṭha

Saturn Stations Direct

Artwork by Rabi Behera

Have you ever felt like life has hit a pause button, leaving you in a seemingly endless cycle? Or perhaps you've struggled to connect with your true self and those around you, leaving a void of fulfillment. If so, you're not alone. Many of us have experienced these sentiments. But the cosmos has an interesting twist in store. 

Saturn, the guardian of time and the bestower of longevity, ended its annual retrograde journey that began on June 17th and moved direct today (11/4). This shift serves as a cosmic reset button, offering us the chance to start fresh in various aspects of our lives.

On the 14th, Rāhu will move out of the gaṇḍānta, that karmic knot between Fire and Water, as discussed in my latest article. This shift will make the energy feel more fluid. Take the next couple of weeks to carefully assess and reevaluate the structures and commitments you've set up for yourself.

Saturn has been dancing in and out of Dhanishtha धनिष्ठा nakshatra from Feb 2022 to Mar 2023, then again on Oct 15th, and will remain there until Nov 23rd, 2023. On November 23, Saturn moves back into Śatabhiṣā, the veiling star as we revisit energies present from mid-March to mid-June. This time there is an opportunity for the energy to land.

Now is the time to take an honest look at where you may have been hindering your own progress and consider the direction, values, and people in your life who may no longer serve your growth. Face your karmas responsibly and consider your environmental footprint in the process.

Ask yourself, "What am I ready to commit to in a way that aligns with my higher purpose?" If you feel the need to rush, rush like a royal elephant, standing in your values and expressing your convictions. The next few weeks are flavored with the themes of distilling all that you’ve learned in the past couple of months, commitment to your highest alignment path, and birthing a new dream.

For my full blog post and more personalized guidance, please visit Jyotish Astrology private consultation. All my relations

"I believe in all that has never yet been spoken. I want to free what waits within me so that what no one has dared to wish for may for once spring clear without my contriving. 

If this is arrogant, God, forgive me, but this is what I need to say. May what I do flow from me like a river, no forcing and no holding back, the way it is with children.

Then in these swelling and ebbing currents, these deepening tides moving out, returning, I will sing you as no one ever has, streaming through widening channels into the open sea."

~Rilke 

Mercury Retrograde in Uttara Phālgunī

Mercury Retrograde

Mercury Retrograde in Uttara Phālgunī

August 23 - September 14

In the current celestial landscape, Mercury, the harbinger of communication and intelligence, enters a retrograde phase that takes place within the nurturing boundaries of Uttara Phālgunī (sidereal Leo). This alignment imbues our quicksilver mental faculties with a slowed cadence, beckoning us into a state of refined contemplation.

Uttara Phālgunī is known as the 'Star of Patronage,' a celestial body deeply associated with benevolence, guardianship, and mutual care. These retrograde periods are less an obstacle course and more an invitation to reflection and action. Under its auspices, Mercury's retrograde provides an opportune frame for re-evaluating the dimensions of our commitments and responsibilities.

Within this cosmic environment, the rapid-fire faculties governed by Mercury—communication, trade, intellectual pursuits—take a measured pace. It's a temporal sphere where haste is less regarded than the quality of deliberation, giving us pause to think not just about the messages we send, but also the underlying ethics of our intentions and actions.

This period calls for a nuanced understanding of interdependence, a foundational principle and core tenet associated with the influence of Uttara Phālgunī. It encourages us to recalibrate the scales of give and take, to assess whether our personal and professional patronages are aligned with our deepest convictions. Through this churning, Mercury subtly instructs us in the virtues of a balanced, neutral perspective.

Given the reflective mood set by this celestial alignment, now would also be a propitious time to dust off old projects and rekindle efforts that align with these patronly virtues, revisiting them with a newly balanced perspective.

During this retrograde phase, one would do well to engage in a focused introspection to refine one's roles and responsibilities as both benefactor and beneficiary. The goal is to emerge with a matured sense of stewardship, capable of navigating life's complexities with equanimity and grace.

David Loy // “One meaning of freedom is the opportunity to act out the story I identify with. Another freedom is the ability to change stories and my role within them.”

Full Moon in Pūrvāṣāḍhā: The Invincible Star

Pūrṇimā

The brightest full moon of the year will grace the constellation of Pūrvāṣāḍhā पूर्वाषाढा (sidereal Sagittarius), the Invincible Star, on Monday, July 3rd (4:35 am PDT/13:39 Spain). This lunar mansion, ruled by the deified water goddess, Apah, symbolizes the zenith of Venusian energy and holds the power to invigorate and energize one's life.

Pūrvāṣāḍhā and the Purifying Power of Water

Besides the life-giving and nurturing qualities of water, Pūrvāṣāḍhā is also associated with the purification of impurities and diseases. The water goddess is said to cleanse everything that is impure. Through the confrontation with one's own shadow, purification becomes possible. This renewal brings about rejuvenation, which sustains, energizes, and encourages growth.

Navigating Pressures and Embracing Vulnerability

Recent increased pressures have likely commanded your full attention and perhaps spurred a strong desire to improve your circumstances. This energy has required you to remain solid and strong in the face of all that has been asked of you. Perhaps there’s another area in your life that you’ve been slowly pushed towards, and it is now requesting a more intimate, vulnerable side of you to come forward.

A Time for Conscious Surrender and Change

This is not the time to give up, but rather to consciously surrender and participate with the flow of what is being given to you. Perhaps the very thing you are resisting is what you need most. Change is at the forefront. What toxins in your life need to be transmuted into a healing experience?

Inner Transformation and Healing

Participate in these changes and go through that inner transformation, that emotional difficulty that you may have been avoiding, so you can emerge on the other side where something powerful can be born out of the process. This healing has the potential to manifest as a victory which cannot be subdued and one that is worthy of the effort required.

Stepping Into Authenticity and Learning From Resistance

Tend to the evolution of your consciousness. Be willing to cleanse and shed that which distracts you from your purpose, and step fully into your authenticity. Stay curious — what are you resisting that nature is trying to teach you in this moment? Our responsibility is to do the inner work, to be willing to surrender the ego, step into vulnerability, and ultimately into the heart. Have the courage to do the hard things, and you might just surprise yourself.

Guru Purnima - Honoring the Guiding Light

The radiance of this bright moon will awaken the sacred occasion of Guru Pūrṇimā, where we honor the embodiment of grace and knowledge that illuminates our path and dispels darkness. Just as the first rays of the rising sun dispel the darkness of night, let us pay homage to the guiding light that removes the veils of ignorance and leads us towards self-realization.

All my Relations

Embark on Your Astrological Journey

If you could use some assistance in navigating what this means for you personally, please visit the link in my bio to book a private consultation. I’m delighted to offer 20% off of the first three readings booked using code SUMMERVIBES at Vedic Astrology Consultations when purchased by 7/7. All my relations 

Pierre Teilhard de Chardin // “Remain true to yourself, but move ever upward toward greater consciousness and greater love! At the summit you will find yourselves united with all those who, from every direction, have made the same ascent. For everything that rises must converge.”

The Cosmic Dance of the Sun - Welcome to Gemini Season

Artwork by Chaya Collective

What if I were to propose that, from an astronomical standpoint, we are, in fact, in Gemini season? An astronomical decree that challenges the common narrative and invites a new perspective.

Vedic Astrology and the Summer Solstice

In the sacred realm of Vedic Astrology, an ancient oracle that speaks through the enduring positions of the stars, the Sun’s annual dance from June 15th to July 16th is actually dressed in Gemini’s ethereal attire. The day on which the Sun transits from Gemini to Cancer signifies the Vedic Summer Solstice, an alternative truth that may stir your inner knowing.

Mercury in Gemini – The Cosmic Weaver's Waltz

On June 24th, Mercury (Budha), the cosmic weaver of communication, the bard of speech, and the patron of technology, chose to waltz with Gemini, embarking on a month-long sojourn in this dynamic sign. Anticipate a season of refined discourse, precision in thought, flavored with an element of playfulness. 

Celestial Alignment and Its Influence on Communication⠀⠀⠀

This celestial alignment signifies a time when ideas, akin to radiant celestial bodies, bask in newfound luminosity. You can expect communication to become both purposeful and dynamic, embodying the keen intelligence of Mercury and Gemini's mutable agility.

Unleashing Creative Expression and Dialogue⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

This transit awakens our latent capacity for effective dialogue and creative expression. Therefore, it's the ideal season to immerse yourself in writing, public speaking, or partake in any endeavor that allows your words to dance. Immerse yourself in this energy and witness your words illuminate the universe with profound depth and exquisite articulation.

Embark on Your Astrological Journey

Intrigued by this ancient technology of Vedic astrology? Ready to explore the depths of your unique celestial map? Schedule your personal astrology reading with me today via the link in my bio and discover the magic written in the stars. 

Solar Eclipse in Aśvini: Star of Transport

Solar Eclipse

Artist Unknown

Eclipse season commences with the new moon (amāvásyā) Wednesday night in the Vedic constellation of Aśvinī अश्विनी (sidereal Aries), the Star of Transport. You may feel as if you’re on the edge as we step into a time outside of time, where things aren’t what they seem. This eclipse portal stimulates confrontation with the unknown, encourages rejuvenation, is ripe for accelerated spiritual growth and beckons all that has been hidden to be brought to the surface — lean in and move towards balance.

 Aśvinī is the first of twenty-seven constellations in the sidereal zodiac, is symbolized by the head of a horse, ruled by the Aśvinī Kumaras, the celestial doctors to the Gods and is the storehouse of all creative potential, which currently lays dormant. Like the horse, this lunar mansion is eager to begin the journey, express its ideas and with a swiftness in approach. We can learn from a practice used with race horses, where blinders are put on to avoid the horse from getting distracted by what’s happening on either side of them and to prevent a miss step— reminding us to stay present, not minding what anyone else thinks and remaining with a one-pointed focus on whatever is before us.

This is an important time to see into yourself. Resist any urgency to initiate projects of all kinds. Remember you’re not in charge of the outcome — loosen your grip a little and surrender into the unknown. Slow down and anchor into your inner stillness, keep your mind open and allow the eclipses to have their way with you. Welcome the rising friction to stir up duality and purify that which is no longer needed — a process which ultimately stabilizes self knowledge. Take your time with decisions — wait until the end of May, beginning of June to forge ahead. We’re moving into a time of action and you have more time than you think.

The 21st of April offers great energetic change as Mercury stations retrograde in Aries, and Jupiter shifts from Pisces to Aries, initiating a new twelve year cycle. Jupiter in Gandanta (karmic knot between water and fire signs) brings more uncertainty, a feeling of things being out of control (keep on eye on the weather), which may lead to a celestial healing of sorts — especially with the financial markets. Reflect on whats being revealed and notice what needs to untangle in your life. There may be similar themes from the energies in 2011 (take a moment to reflect on the timing).

We’re bing encouraged to circle around with projects placed on the back burner — specifically around health and healing. Backup your computers, leave extra time for traveling, slow down your speech and be mindful of the way in which you communicate and respond. Notice what's being exposed over these next few weeks. Be aware of increased impulsivity and do your best to keep life simple, to stay grounded and rested. Avoid traveling and major changes on this day and around the eclipses, if possible. Expect the unexpected.

The sun and moon are both exalted on April 22, which is one of the most auspicious festivals in the Vedic calendar, known as Akshaya Tritiya — the day of lasting achievements. It is said that any life supporting action done on this day is multiplied a thousand times. Since it’s not the best day for new beginnings, due to the current transits, this would be a beautiful day to offer a donation or be of service to someone in need. All My Relations

If you could use some assistance in navigating what this means for you personally, please visit Vedic Astrology to book private consultation. Love All Ways

The solar eclipse will occur from 6:37 p.m. to 9:56 p.m. PST on April 19th.

"In order to establish order, disorder has to be shaken; and for shaking to remain under control, we who are at the basis, at the level of Para, have to be Para – that is, unreachable by the surface turmoil. In that integrated state, the fast moving chaos and change will pass away in a steady manner.

So, we have to be very steady. We have to be very careful not to get upset by little or big things. If we lose our basis, our dignity, the phase transition will take much longer.

Don't give importance to things which may upset us. This is a very precious time for the world. Everything depends on how our awareness is; just don't let it be shaken. Our awareness is the basis of all these transformations. More than ever before, time demands we remain completely ourselves. It is a very tender, delicate time for us - we should not become angry, indifferent, or sad; we should just be like an ocean. The evolutionary power is waking up.

We shake it, then leave it; then after some time shake it again. Each time a new level of purity, awakening, is added.”

~ Maharishi Mahesh Yogi

New Moon in Uttara Bhadrapadā: The Warrior Star

Amāvásyā

Artwork by: Samādhi Collective

March’s celestial clock dials the sun and moon together on Tuesday morning, in the Vedic nakshatra of Uttarabhadrapadā उत्तरभद्रपदा (sidereal Pisces), the Warrior Star. The pressure continues to build this next week and know that there is light at the end of the tunnel. The current storm we’re moving through carries with it a sense of a victory to come. This lunation cycle is connected to fertility of both earth and sky and opens the channels to reveal wisdom gained through experience — to excavate the unconscious, harmonize universal mind and stabilize the friction we’ve been encountering.

Recent clarity ignited a desire inside and in turn, illumined a path forward. Often when we follow our heart’s desire and step into uncharted territory, we’re met with resistance, confronted with doubt and even feelings of unworthiness. As easy as it can be to turn back to our old ways, which may feel safe and appear to have less residence; a transformation from one cycle into another requires a new approach: trusting in divine protection, and that our desire is naturally in alignment. Moving forward, even though there is no guarantee, versus second guessing the outcome.

Lean into the process of breaking down and releasing limiting beliefs, stories and habits that are no longer contributing. Glimpse into any vulnerability you’re experiencing and see how you can anchor into a stronger foundation amongst that which is coming up to be revealed — this can often resemble a dark night of the soul experience. Shift your narrative and look upon any perceived flaws that may be blocking your way, as a course correction instead of an opposition. Keep a big picture perspective as you calculate your goals and actions which are aimed at success. 

This dark moon is considered to be the astronomical new year and opens an energetic doorway. March 22nd begins the auspicious nine nights devoted to the divine feminine (Spring Navarātri). This festival beckons a time to cultivate our inward journey.

 Remember that the pressure you’re experiencing now, is the precise medicine that is needed for what comes next. Very similar to the journey of the butterfly, who in the process of breaking itself free from the cocoon, develops the very muscles needed to be able to fly. When utilized to excavate deeper, these next couple of weeks can assist in harnessing the creative intelligence and infinite potential that will magnetize the next cycle to come.

For more personalized, in-depth guidance on how you can navigate the current celestial waters, please visit Jyotish Astrology to schedule a private consultation. 

All my Relations

Brene brown // “Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it's having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome. Vulnerability is not weakness; it's our greatest measure of courage. A lot of cheap seats in the arena are filled with people who never venture onto the floor.”

Full Moon in Pūrva Phalgunī: The Fruit of the Tree

Pūrṇimā

Artwork by @hvalor

March’s bright moon lands in the predawn hours of Tuesday morning, in the Vedic lunar mansion of Pūrva Phalgunī पूर्वफल्गुनी (Leo), the Fruit of the Tree. This lunation cycle invokes a sense of heightened creativity, sexuality, desire and passion, which encourages us to express ourselves, lean into the comforts of life and to follow the joy of our heart’s desire.

The new moon a couple weeks ago in the constellation of Śatabhiṣā (Aquarius), the veiling star, set the tone for the current lunar month. A great question to meditate on, would be: What truths are being unveiled to you now that were previously unclear? As you lean a little more into your intuition and embrace all that is living through you, you may have found that perhaps life has begun to flow a little more eloquently and at the same time, whenever one moves towards that which they desire, they’re often confronted by the opposing element. This is a test of sorts, inviting us to take a deeper look at our relationship with that which “controls” us.

The star of fertility is both courageous and a visionary, like its bird medicine, the eagle. This full moon awakens within the heart, the courage to face the tests and initiations being presented to us; to rise above the mundane, to break free from walking in the shadows of our past experiences and open our eyes to a higher perspective. Pūrva Phalgunī can bring complications with our eyes, both literally and figuratively; we can become blinded to that which is right in front of us and on the flip side, when met with awareness, can take us to a heightened perspective. 

When we go for what we truly want, trauma can sweep in to meet us. The common threads I’ve witnessed coming up for many in the past couple weeks have involved feelings of grief, frustration and anger, and specifically around a certain situation in our lives that perhaps isn’t providing the very momentum we’ve been hoping for. All activity is dependent on periods of non activity. After facing worldly battles and tending to one’s duties and responsibilities, there is a period of rest, relaxation and enjoyment that follows. This period of rest is associated with Pūrva Phalgunī and is the very muse that kindles the impulse towards enlivening our creative intelligence and effortless action.

Pūrva Phalgunī reminds us that complex problems can be solved in a relaxed mood and that the practice of yoga ultimately teaches us how to be at ease in the presence of the Unknown. The deeper you go, the more you tend to the stillness within, the more dynamic and effortless your activity becomes. The Yogasūtra’s (2.47) state, that it is ‘in the relaxation of our effort and capacity to become absorbed in the infinite, that bears fruit of effortless action — action established in being or yoga (union).’ 

This full moon also marks a very special Vedic holiday known as Holi — the festival of colors. This holiday marks the beginning of Spring and celebrates the victory of good over evil — sattva (the creative force) over destruction.

The veil is lifting and we’re beginning to see the issues that have stood in our way. Now we know what needs to be done to navigate the changes that are necessary to bring about the openness and evolution that we seek. A little struggle brings with it a promise of a breakthrough to come. Don’t get caught up with what isn’t working. Continue to tend to a solid foundation and move in the direction of your heart’s desire, even if the odds appear to be wavering, don’t give up now.

For more personalized guidance on how to navigate the celestial waters, please visit Jyotish Astrology to book a consultation. ~ Love All ways // All my Relations

“To be baffled and obstructed is what engages creativity. This is the practice of poets, dreamers, and artists alike: to show up at the frontiers of uncertainty where we are met by ten thousand things. We practice there, on the verge, amateur and unprepared, at being friendly - or at least willing - towards the discomforts of our confusions. As Rumi says, ‘Sell your cleverness and buy bewilderment!’ “ -Toko-pa-Turner

Full Moon in Āśleṣā: The Clinging Star

Pūrṇimā

Artwork by @mooncrab.jpg

The bright moon on Sunday morning awakens the primordial, serpent energy, bound within the constellation of Āśleṣā आश्लेषा (Cancer), The Clinging Star. Just like the coiled energy that sits dormant at the base of the spine, which yearns to merge with its beloved in the crown, Āśleṣā enlivens the curiosity to investigate deeper to unite with one’s desired outcome.

A quest which draws us to embrace balance between good and bad — the dance of our lower nature that must be won over before we can attune to our higher power. This kind of transmutation, which turns poison into medicine, very much relates to the shadow energies entwined within our ego — awaiting to be acknowledged and thus subdued, for the throne of authority to be achieved. 

What are you ready to shed? We’re moving out of Mercury retrograde's shadow period and the subtle impulses of your intuition are reawakening. Continue to distill down the wisdom and lessons that have been presenting themselves since the beginning of the year. Learn to transcend your emotional reactions and become more goal oriented, consistent and disciplined in your pursuit to establish your desired hopes and dreams. Wait out the fortnight of the waning moon before initiating those new beginnings, commitments and projects that have been awaiting you. 

All my Relations

For more in depth, personalized guidance on how to align with the current planetary cycle, please visit Vedic Astrology Consultations to book a consultation. Love all ways

Dogen Zenji // “Enlightenment is intimacy with all things.”

Artwork by Caroline Smith

• February 5th: Full Moon Āśleṣā (Cancer) 

• February 6th: Mercury enters Capricorn 

• February 12: Sun enters Aquarius 

• February 15th: Venus enters Pisces 

• February 18th: Maha Shivaratri 

• February 19th: New Moon Shatabhishā (Aquarius)

• February 27th: Mercury enters Aquarius