Chaitra Navarātri: Nine Nights of the Divine Feminine

CHAITRA NAVARĀTRI

Artwork: Pinterest

March 30th - April 7th

Chaitra (Vasanta) Navarātri commences on the Pratipadā tithi (1st lunar day) to the Navamī tithi (9th) of the Śukla Pakṣa (waxing moon) in the month of Chaitra (March/April). This nine-day festival marks the arrival of spring, a time of renewal, blossoming life, and spiritual purification.

Dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durgā and her nine forms, this Navarātri is one of the four sacred Navarātris observed throughout the year. It is a time of deep transformation, particularly connected to Mahāvidyā Tripura Sundarī, the embodiment of supreme beauty, clarity, and the power of refined discernment. Through her grace, we learn to see beyond the architecture of illusion, aligning with the deeper intelligence that orchestrates all things.

This sacred passage culminates in Rāma Navamī, celebrating the birth of Bhagavān Śrī Rāma, making it especially significant in the Vedic tradition.

Navarātri invokes an internal quest to locate and establish our seat within the center of the heart of the Goddess. In a world that grasps our attention and seize our mind to look outside of ourselves to seek truth, validation and even to gain a so called glimpse of the goddess - this festival calls us to go deeper within to attune with her rivers that flow within us and to cultivate a direct experience, and personal relationship with Her. 

Artwork: Pinterest

Devī is that awakening force, that primordial energy that lives within us and awaits our attention. Yoga teaches us that whatever we put our attention on grows stronger in our lives. Move beyond your ideas of who she is and how she can be reached.

This window is ripe for putting into physical practice the teachings found in the yoga śāstra. In the quieting of our mind (yogaś-citta-vr̥tti-nirodhaḥ) and the investigation of all that lies below the surface — in the observation and embrace of both our shadows and our light, which are ultimately one and the same — we’re being called now to enter into that space, and to transcend. 

As we tend to śakti, and begin to establish a firm foundation in Her, we begin to awaken our power to focus, to cultivate our dhāraṇā and draw all our energies inside — this continued focus is the active meditation requesting our attention — calling us to become completely absorbed in Her. 

She is the embodiment of all that is and ever will be, She is our very breath and that which gives life to all, yet she cannot be reached by contemplation or intellectual understanding and philosophizing, or even described through words, she can only be touched through direct experience — that which requires digestion and stabilization to be truly lived. Can you answer that call? 

ॐ श्री मात्रे नमः | Sri Matre Namaha

Tulsi specializes in Vedic Astrology & Compatibility readings, personalized Vedic Couture and Yoga Sādhana. @turiyacollection | Jyotish Consultations

Artowrk: Pinterest

The nine names of manifestation have been spoken in the Devīmāhātmyam DevĪ Kavacaṃ, by the Lord Brahmā (the creator) Himself:

"First is Goddess Śailaputrī, the Daughter of the Himālayas, and second is Brahmachāriṇī, She who observes the vow of celibacy, the Goddess of sacred study and penance; third is Chandraghaṇṭā, the Goddess of the Delight of Practice, who bears the moon in her necklace, Kūṣmāṇḍa, the Goddess of Purifying Austerity is fourth.”

“Fifth is the Goddess Skanda-Mātā, the mother of Skanda, born out of her powers, sixth is Kātyāyanī, the One Who is Ever Pure; seventh is Kālarātrī, the Goddess of the Dark Night of Overcoming Egotism, Siddhidātrī, Mahāgaurī, the wife of Lord Śiva is eighth.”

“Ninth is the Goddess Siddhidātrīm, the provider of Siddhis, and bestower of mystic powers; the nine Durgas, relievers of difficulties, have been enumerated, and these names have been revealed by the great soul of the Supreme Brahmā himself."

ॐ दुं दुर्गायै नमः

• March 30: Pratipadā (Ghatasthāpana & Śailaputrī Pūjā)

• March 31: Dvitīyā (Brahmacāriṇī Pūjā)

• April 1: Tṛtīyā (Candraghaṇṭā Pūjā)

• April 2: Caturthī (Kuṣmāṇḍā Pūjā)

• April 3: Pañcamī (Skandamātā Pūjā)

• April 4: Ṣaṣṭhī (Kātyāyanī Pūjā)

• April 5: Saptamī (Kālratri Pūjā)

• April 6: Aṣṭamī (Mahāgaurī Pūjā & Kanyā Pūjan)

• April 7: Navamī (Siddhidātrī Pūjā & Rām Navamī)

Yugādi & Gudhi Pāḍavā: The Vedic New Year

Gudhi Pāḍavā: Vedic New Year

Artwork: Pinterest

Falling on March 30th, Ugadi and Gudhi Pāḍavā and mark the Vedic New Year, aligning with the lunisolar calendar and heralding a time of renewal and auspicious beginnings. Commencing on Chaitra Śukla Pratipadā—the first lunar day after the new moon closest to the vernal equinox—this day reflects the harmony of lunar and solar cycles, with the Sun and Moon positioned in Pisces.

The panchāṅga, the Vedic almanac, designates this astronomical new year based on the new moon in Pisces or the one nearest to the vernal equinox. This moment marks the start of a new Samvatsara, the 60-year cycle in the Hindu lunar calendar.

In Maharashtra and beyond, this day is observed as Gudhi Pāḍavā, while in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka, it is celebrated as Yugādi—derived from Yuga (era) and Ādi (beginning), symbolizing the dawn of a new epoch. It is believed that Lord Brahmā commenced the creation of the universe on this day, making it a sacred threshold for fresh beginnings.

Recognized as one of the Sāḍhe Tīn Muhūrtas—a highly auspicious time requiring no additional muhurta for initiating significant ventures—this day holds immense spiritual, cultural, and agricultural significance. The chart of this day is believed to set karmic trends for the year ahead, with this year’s alignment placing six grahas in Pisces in the first house at sunrise (location: India).

Traditionally, Gudhi Pāḍavā is celebrated with vibrant rituals, including raising a gudi dvaja (victory flag) adorned with flowers, mango leaves, and neem leaves—symbolizing prosperity and triumph. Homes are decorated with colorful rangoli, and special sweets are prepared to mark the occasion.

Yugādi is welcomed with panchāṅga śravaṇa (almanac reading), symbolizing the wisdom of aligning with natures rhythms. Homes are cleaned and adorned with toranas of mango leaves, and families wear new clothes to mark the fresh beginning.

A significant tradition is the preparation of Yugādi Pachadi—a unique blend of six flavors: neem (bitterness), tamarind (sourness), jaggery (sweetness), green mango (tanginess), chili (heat), and salt—each representing the varied experiences of life. This ritual serves as a reminder to embrace the full spectrum of existence with equanimity.

Symbolically, this day represents new beginnings, prosperity, and spiritual evolution. Along with the omen of the Solar eclipse, this rare astrological alignment and convergence is signalling that start of a new era.

All My Relations.

"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 Solar Eclipse in Uttara Bhādrapadā: The Warrior Star

SOLAR ECLIPSE

Artwork: Edit by @turiyacollection

Eclipse season culminates with the new moon (amāvásyā) and a partial solar eclipse (Sūrya Grahaṇam सूर्य ग्रहण ) in the heart of Pisces, within the Vedic Lunar Mansion of Uttara Bhādrapadā (उत्तरभद्रपदा), known as the Warrior Star. 

This powerful asterism resides at the heart of the last water sign, in a mokṣa house, ruled by ākāśa tattva and Ahirbudhnya (the Serpent of the Deep)—one of the eleven Rūdras, fierce forms of Lord Śiva. We are being led towards the end of the zodiac, where dissolution and transformation become inevitable.

As the seat of Mahā Lakṣmī, this asterism is deeply connected to the fertility of both earth and sky, dreamtime, excavating the unconscious, and harmonizing universal mind. Its śakti is both karmic and transformative, beckoning us to uncover hidden wisdom through humility, experience, and self-sacrifice.

Crossing the Threshold

Solar eclipses act as triggers—revealing what has been hidden and setting the tone for the next six months. This is our final eclipse in the Pisces/Aries axis, amplified by the presence of six grahas (planets) plus Neptune (Vāruṇa) — including Shanis (Saturn) 30 year transit into Pisces. We find ourselves in a time outside of time, where perception and reality may not align. The eclipse confronts us with the unknown, bringing buried patterns to the surface for dissolution. This is an important time to peer into yourself.

The recent lunar eclipse may have already revealed something significant, shifting your understanding of where your energy is best invested. There is an awakening—as if emerging from a deep sleep, where illusions dissolve and clarity begins to form. While clarity may still elude you as you gather truth, this moment calls for guarding your energy, stabilizing your emotions, and postponing major decisions.

The Alchemy of Eclipses

Artowork: Edit by @turiyacollection

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, momentarily veiling the solar light. In Vedic astrology, this is catalyzed by the nodal axis—Rāhu and Ketu—the great awakeners. As the Sun is obscured, old cycles dissolve, and new ones emerge. This celestial alignment calls for deep transformation, urging you to realign with your highest path and embrace unseen possibilities.

Friction arises to stir duality for purification. Through this process, self-knowledge becomes stabilized. The turbulence you may feel is the necessary alchemy to draw you deeper into your own psyche.

Uttara Bhādrapadā calls for surrender, inviting us to expand our vision and perceive the greater design held within Universal mind and the collective consciousness. This phase demands simplicity—staying grounded and rested is essential. Reflect on what is being revealed and what longs to be untangled. This is not a time for grasping or control. Instead, allow the unexpected to unfold.

Not My Monkeys, Not My Circus

You can only change and work on yourself. No matter how deeply you feel the need to hold on or piece together something that is unraveling, you may not be able to. Allow yourself to be surprised. This is an opportunity for profound growth—don’t bypass it simply because it’s uncomfortable. Observe what is unfolding and step powerfully into taking responsibility for your own spiritual evolution.

What would it take for you to stop resisting that which you don’t prefer? Welcome it all—the beauty, the terror, the rapture, and the turbulence. Be with it and let it go. It may not be comfortable or easy, but it will undoubtedly be worth it.

Sacred Timing & Ritual

The ancients taught that any practice undertaken during an eclipse bears fruit a thousandfold. In this sacred window, they consumed less—physically and mentally—to keep their channels clear. With the Sun and Moon—our sources of prāṇa—obscured, this becomes a potent time for:

• Mantra chanting

• Meditation & breathwork

• Prayer & fasting

• Turning inward, rather than outward

It is also recommended to bathe (in salt water if possible) before and after the eclipse to decompress the spine and cleanse both body and mind, allowing for a smoother energetic transition.

Trust the Process

Trust that this cycle holds the initiation necessary to bear seeds of a positive resolution in time, which will birth you into the next journey. Take your time to process things and allow the story to continue unfolding.

Those experiencing a daśā or sub-period of Saturn, or with natal planets (Sun, Moon, Rising) in Uttara Bhādrapadā, will feel this transit’s transformative energy even more profoundly.

Eclipse Timing

⟐ March 29th, 2005
⟐ 1:51 AM - 5:44 AM PDT | 2:21 PM - 6:14 PM IST

During this eclipse window, emotions may intensify, and uncertainty may surface. Engage in practices that anchor you—mantra, meditation, and prayer, these will help navigate the energies, allowing the eclipse to pass without unnecessary entanglement. Postpone major decisions for about a week and listen for what is being revealed. (ideally beyond mercury stationing direct on 4/7)

This eclipse portal beckons us toward deeper understanding and spiritual growth—allow yourself to be surprised by what unfolds.

Should You Seek Deeper Guidance

For those drawn to deeper exploration or seeking illumination on their personal journey, know that Tulsi does offer private consultations. You may inquire or schedule a session here.

Om Tatpurushaya Vidmahe
Mahadevaya Dhimahi
Tanno Rudraḥ Prachodayāt

ॐ तत्पुरुषाय विद्महे महादेवाय धीमहि।
तन्नो रुद्रः प्रचोदयात्॥

 "In search of yourself, you'll lose yourself.

Leave the little river and join the big river.

Why do you carry the burden of the world on your shoulders like an ox?

Change your direction and become one with the Universe." 

~ Jalāluddīna Rūmī 

All My Relations

Tulsi specializes in Vedic Astrology & Compatibility readings, personalized Vedic Couture and Yoga Sādhana. @turiyacollection | Jyotish Consultations

Rahu into Pūrvabhādrapadā: The Scorching Star

Rahu in Pūrvabhādrapadā

Artwork: Pinterest

March 16 — November 23rd

The chāyā (shadowy) graha Rāhu, depicted as mounted on a lion, bluish-black and smoke in color, residing in the forest, the renovator and eclipser of the luminaries, enters the Vedic Lunar Mansion of Pūrva Bhādrapadā पूर्वभाद्रपदा (Pisces), the Scorching Star, on March 16th.

To understand Rāhu graha a little more, we can look to the narrative of the hero’s journey and to the life of Varāha Avatār, the third incarnation of the daśāvatār of Lord Viṣṇu (the preserver and protector), the wild boar. Varāha Dev is one of the four full Paramātmās whose story narrates how Lord Viṣṇu came to rescue Bhūdevī (Pṛthvī), Earth, and restore her to her rightful place in the universe.

Rāhu is the karaka (significator) for justice, courage, truth, self-sacrifice, renovation, risking one’s life for a cause, going against the established order, the foreigner, and the protector of the Earth. With his tusks, Varāha is said to have the ability to dig up any impurities in the heart.

Pūrva Bhādrapadā is symbolized by metamorphosis, rebirth, tapas (penance), perseverance, and the undifferentiated fire energy that has the capacity to raise our consciousness. This constellation, being one of the birth stars of Mercury, represents the chaos and turmoil of fragmentation that births the wisdom of neutrality.

The Burning Pair’s deity (Aja Ekapāda) stands on one leg and has two heads—split yet able to see in both directions. Pūrva Bhādrapadā seeks to bridge heaven and earth, possessing the power to elevate and sacrifice (Yajamana Udyamana Śakti)

Pūrvabhādrapadā initiates an alchemical process where discipline and renunciation refine raw potential into awakened wisdom. This nakṣatra does not merely demand confrontation with duality; it invites us into a dance of integration, where material ambition and spiritual transcendence find their rightful place. 

How we manage vast reservoirs of life force energy becomes the defining arc of this cycle, shaping our capacity to channel intensity into focused intention. Yet, the cultivation of inner contentment amidst this dynamic flux is equally vital.

This sacrifice channels energy that can produce and draw down spiritual blessings. Through tapasya (austerity), this energy rises to melt and dissolve the veils obscuring the hidden moon within our minds, showering us with grace.

As Rāhu enters Pūrvabhādrapadā, symbolized by a funeral pyre, we stand at the precipice of transformation, where the purifying fire of Rūdra (fierce form of Śiva) dissolves illusion. While Rāhu’s presence here may manifest through sudden and unpredictable karma-phala (fruits of action), it ultimately compels a dismantling of rigid ideologies, allowing limitation to be transmuted into higher understanding.

Artwork: Pinterst

This is a cycle of intensity, yet not one of inevitable destabilization. The presence of Rāhu here is the ascetic who must temper his fire, the revolutionary who must refine his vision. Discernment (Viveka) becomes paramount, guiding us to differentiate between the higher call of dharma and the consuming hunger for dominion—whether material, intellectual, or ideological.

Rāhu amplifies an insatiable drive for knowledge, power, and ultimate truth, compelling us to navigate the razor’s edge of profound revelation and self-mastery. Those attuned to this energy may find themselves positioned at the forefront of social reform, philosophical inquiry, or disciplined spiritual practice.

The challenge—and the opportunity—is to ensure that transformation does not become an all-consuming blaze, but rather a luminous beacon. When tempered with humility, this fire does not devour but illuminates, revealing the path to higher realization and authentic awakening.

Those running a Dasha or sub-period of Jupiter or Rāhu, or with natal planets in Pūrva Bhādrapadā, will feel this transit's transformative energy even more profoundly.

This cycle will be defined by the goals you set for yourself and what you are willing to give away.

In the planetary protection mantras, we invoke Rāhu to protect our tongue.

For those navigating the depths of this transit, I offer one-on-one Vedic Astrology readings—guiding you through its unfolding with clarity and support. You can book here:

ॐ राम राहवे नमः | ॐ वराहाय नमः

All My Relations

Mercury Retrograde in Uttara Bhādrapadā

Mercury Retrograde

March 15th - April 7th

Artwork: Unknown

Budha Graha (Mercury) stations retrograde on March 15th in the Vedic lunar mansion of Uttara Bhādrapadā उत्तरभद्रपदा (sidereal Pisces), the Warrior Star—punctuating a passage of deep reflection, reimagination, and renewal.

Budha (Mercury), fourth among the navagrahas (nine planets), the embodiment of rajo-guṇa (the mode of passion) and pṛthvī tattva (earth element), is revered as the radiant son of Chandra (the Moon), known for his golden eyes and tireless energy. He is also connected to Mahāvidyā Tripura Sundarī, who embodies supreme beauty, clarity, and the power of refined discernment.

Mercury bestows discernment and is the karaka (significator) of intellect, skill, talent, eloquent speech, the nervous system, storytelling, the student, negotiation, and neutrality. Just as Viṣṇu takes birth age after age to reestablish dharma and restore balance, mercury retrograde invites us to return to the center of our wheel

This powerful asterism resides at the heart of the last water sign, in a mokṣa bhāva (house of liberation), ruled by ākāśa tattva (ether element) and Ahirbudhnya (Serpent of the Deep). As the seat of Mahā Lakṣmī, this nakṣatra is deeply connected to the fertility of both earth and sky, dreamtime, the excavation of the unconscious, and the harmonization of universal mind. Here, we are beckoned to uncover hidden wisdom through humility, experience, and self-sacrifice—a śakti that is both transformative and karmic.

With Budha in Uttara Bhādrapadā conjunct Śukra (Venus) and Rāhu, rajo-guṇa is amplified, along with a heightened sense of protection. What is it that you are seeking to protect? A position you have claimed or wish to claim? A sense of personal justice? Or perhaps, your connection to source?

Mahāvidyā Śrī Lalitā Tripurā Sundarī | Kapoor Galleries Inc. wrote: Mandi, style of Sajnu, circa 1810

This transit embodies the dual current of existence, urging us to reconcile the spiritual and material realms. As Mercury retraces its path through the deep waters of Uttara Bhādrapadā, we encounter the mystical serpent—a force that strips away illusion, purges material toxins, and refines perception. This is a time when logic softens into intuition, and clarity arises not through analysis, but through surrender.

It is a period of intellectual purification, where communication is tested and refined—not for speed, but for depth. Unresolved matters from the past—especially those placed on the back burner—may resurface, seeking resolution through contemplation rather than reaction. Through introspection and surrender, the trials of this transit can lead not to confusion, but to spiritual illumination and ultimate liberation.

We are stepping powerfully into a new timeline—go inward to catch the memo of this time. Some karmas are requesting completion, release, and unraveling. How can you return to the center of your wheel and step into greater balance and neutrality?

Pay close attention if you have major planets—your Sūrya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), or Lagna (rising sign)—in Uttara Bhādrapadā, as this cycle may bring a lasting effect, especially with the New Moon Solar Eclipse occurring in this constellation on March 29th. Also, take note if you are currently running a daśā (major planetary period) or antara-daśā (sub-period) of Śani (Saturn).

For a more detailed look at what this means for you personally, I offer one-on-one consultations, which you can book directly at Jyotish Consultations

All My Relations

ॐ श्री मात्रे नमः | ॐ ब्रां ब्रीं ब्रौं सः बुधाय नमः

Holi, Mahā Lakṣmī Jayantī & Gaura Pūrṇimā

Holi, Mahā Lakṣmī Jayantī & Gaura Pūrṇimā

Artwork: Pinterest

This full moon marks the occasion of several auspicious Vedic festivals—Holi, Mahā Lakṣmī Jayantī, and Gaura Pūrṇimā—each marking a unique spiritual significance.

Holi, the Festival of Colors, occurs on the Pūrṇimā (पूर्णिमा) day of the month of Phālguṇa. It is deeply intertwined with the theme of the eternal and divine love between Rādhā and Kṛṣṇa (the 8th avatāra of Lord Viṣṇu), symbolized by the playful act of adorning each other's faces with vibrant colors. 

This festival not only marks the arrival of Spring but also signifies the triumph of dharma over adharma—good over evil—and the ascendancy of sattva (the creative, harmonious force) over tamas (ignorance and destruction).

The night before Holi, known as Holikā Dahan, commemorates the legend of Prahlāda and his aunt, Holikā. Enraged by the young devotee’s unwavering faith in Viṣṇu, his father, the tyrant Hiraṇyakaśipu, conspired to destroy him. Holikā, who possessed a boon rendering her immune to fire, attempted to burn Prahlāda by carrying him into the flames. Yet, her protection failed, and she perished, while Prahlāda emerged unscathed, shielded by his devotion. 

This night stands as a powerful testament to the supremacy of bhakti (devotion) and the inevitable downfall of arrogance and tyranny, setting the stage for Holi’s jubilant celebration of love, renewal, and divine play.

More than just its mythological roots, Holi stands as a celebration of love, unity, and renewal. It is a time for relationships to be reaffirmed, for healing fractured bonds, and for fostering harmony within communities. Holi's spirit of shared joy bridges social divides, creating a vivid tapestry of collective togetherness that celebrates humanity’s interconnectedness.

Artwork: Pinterest

Mahā Lakṣmī Jayantī honors the divine manifestation of Goddess Lakṣmī during the Samudra Manthan, a pivotal episode in Hindu mythology. The churning of the Ocean of Milk by the Devas and Asuras to obtain Amṛta (the nectar of immortality) signifies a profound spiritual endeavor, revealing treasures and divine beings, including Goddess Lakṣmī. 

 When Mahā Lakṣmī emerged from the ocean, she immediately took residence in Lord Viṣṇu’s (The Preserver, Protector of the Universe) heart. Her appearance bestows eightfold blessings, embodying abundance, grace, and devotion, guiding devotees toward both prosperity and spiritual well-being.

ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय | ॐ श्रीं महा लक्ष्म्यै नमः

Artwork: Anonymous

Gaura Pūrṇimā commemorates the birth of Śrī Chaitanya Mahāprabhu, a pivotal figure in the spiritual traditions of India. Born during a Lunar Eclipse in West Bengal, Mahāprabhu is considered a combined incarnation of Lord Kṛṣṇa  and His beloved devotee, Śrīmati Rādhārāṇī. His divine purpose was twofold: to experience the profound love that Śrīmati Rādhārāṇī holds for Him and to show the path of complete surrender and love for Kṛṣṇa during our eath walk.

हरे कृष्ण हरे कृष्ण, कृष्ण कृष्ण हरे हरे
हरे राम हरे राम, राम राम हरे हरे

“Mind becomes absorbed in the mantra, and then the mantra becomes absorbed in the mind.” — Ramana Maharshi

Full Moon Lunar Eclipse in Uttaraphalgunī: The star of Patronage

FULL MOON total LUNAR ECLIPSE

Artwork: Edit by Tulsi with @turiyacollection

March 13th 23:55 PST | March 14th 12:25PM IST

As the sun and saturn oppose the full moon (Pūrṇimā पूर्णिमा) of March, our first eclipse (Candra Grahaṇam - चन्द्र ग्रहणं) season of the year commences in the Vedic Lunar mansion of Uttaraphalgunī उत्तरफल्गुनी (Leo), the star of Patronage. This dynamic cycle is ripe for accelerated spiritual growth — urging us to refine our inner compass, to untangle and release an old karmic pattern.

As the Earth passes between the Sun and Moon, a shadow is cast on the lunar surface, initiating the beginning of a new chapter and welcoming opportunities for personal growth and transformation. We are stepping into a realm beyond time, where things may not be as they appear. Lunar eclipses serve as triggers, offering sudden exposure to hidden truths and heightened emotions.

The points where the Sun and Moon intersect the ecliptic plane, positioned exactly 180 degrees apart, are known as the lunar nodes, or Rāhu and Ketu in Vedic Astrology. These shadowy grahas, often called the "great awakeners," govern the eclipses and symbolize the eternal dance between light and darkness, offering us the opportunity to confront our shadows, disrupt old patterns, and awaken to deeper truths along our journey.

With the moon eclipsed, you may find yourself at a turning point in your life, on the verge of a major decision, in the grips of exhaustion, or dancing with uncertainty — rest assured this potent eclipse brings with it a promise to shift you into the next phase.

A breakthrough may be within reach now. An old pattern may surface that is ready to be released — don’t touch it — let go of the past. Some questions may be answered within this window of time.

The cards are being reshuffled, with soul contracts now ripe for fruition at the forefront. Some of us might be hesitant to release our current agreements and embrace this higher calling. This shift in awareness may feel sentimental, as we've invested our hearts into our current familiar situations. Yet, a part of us knows that to gain what we truly desire, we must be willing to release what we think we have. The courage required of us now is to stay connected to our true selves, leading with our whole, authentic hearts. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 

Ultimately, as we untangle ourselves from unaligned situations incapable of co-creating our dreams, a doorway opens, revealing a new path forward. On this path, we can weave the blessings of this cycle and shed toxic patterns and habits. The choice is presented to pivot and sow our seeds in fertile soil, ready to bear the fruits we've longed for—an aligned union based on reciprocity, clear communion, and collaboration towards a higher offering. Reflect, refine, and prepare yourself to step into a new timeline.

Uttaraphalgunī calls us to build authentic connections through acts of service, generosity, and mutual support. As the patron of contracts and agreements, this nakshatra, steeped in the qualities of hospitality and protection, encourages us to honor our commitments and nurture relationships that foster both personal and collective growth.

Holding the energy and śakti of prosperity and the accumulation of wealth through partnership, this is a powerful window for collaboration that ignites a fresh perspective and creative growth. There is a desire here to place what you desire into the palm of your hand. This energy is fulfilled through the art of patience and becoming life Tvaṣṭar, the celestial architect who shapes all beings into form.

To breathe life into new architecture, we become most in need of balance. The fine-tuning point between self and other — anchoring into and committing fully to self-sovereignty and radical self-love, while practicing the grace of presence and participation within this co-created dream.

We’re encouraged here to lean into logical, illumined discernment, guided by an understanding of the right support and the correct partner, to choose what we’re creating wisely — in the direction of that which is truly beneficial. The transformation of material into beauty holds great significance here. ⠀⠀⠀⠀

Just as a diamond is formed under pressure, beautiful people aren’t born — they’re forged in the fires of deep transformation. You may feel as though multiple alluring directions are being presented to you. Choose wisely how you’re spending your energy now, as it’s easy to identify with or get lost in form. Resist any urgency to initiate projects, and don’t get distracted in chasing the next shiny object in an attempt to fill some void. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ 

Artwork: Pinterest

You may be feeling restless and emotionally sensitive. We must act now from a place of discipline and responsibility, moving in the direction of illuminating the kind of intelligence that awakens from within. Loosen your grip on the illusion that you have control over the outcome of your actions. Slow down, anchor yourself in the inner stillness of your heart, surrender to the unknown and allow the eclipses to have their way with you.

Pay close attention if you have major planets — your Sun, Moon, or Lagna (rising sign) — in Uttaraphalgunī, as this cycle could bring sudden change, bring forward something you didn’t plan for, or reveal something deeper about yourself. Also, take note if you are currently running a dāśā (cycle) or antar dāśā (sub-cycle) of Sun.

Shifting narratives, heightened emotions, uncertainty, and building intensity call for inward attention and one-pointed focus on grounding. Keep life simple during the eclipse hours (March 13 2025 7:57 pm - March 14 2025 02:00 am PDT | March 14 2025 09:27 am - 15:30 pm IST). The ancients revered this portal as a sacred time to tune into their own divinity, tending to eclipses with care and consuming less — both physically and mentally — to keep their channels clear.

Fasting, meditation, japa, and bathing during this time are sacred practices recommended to optimize this shift. This is an important time to recalibrate and peer deeper into yourself. Ideally, it is advisable to postpone travel, major decisions, surgeries, and commitments during this time.

What familiar holding patterns are you ready to transcend?

Do know that i’m here to support you as we step into a power reset time. For personalized guidance on how this transit influences you personally, I offer one-on-one consultations which you can book here.

Totality Begins: March 13 at 10:26 PM PDT / March 14 at 11:56 AM IST.
Maximum Eclipse: March 13 at 10:58 PM PDT / March 14 at 12:28 PM IST.
Totality Ends: March 13 at 11:32 PM PDT / March 14 at 1:02 PM IST.

“Write all that worries you on a piece of parchment;
Offer it to God Even from the distance
of a millennium I can lean the flame in my heart Into your life And turn All that frightens you
Into holy Incense Ash." 

~Hafiz

Venus Retrograde in Uttara Bhādrapadā: The Warrior Star

Venus Retrograde in Uttara Bhādrapadā

Artwork: Pinterest | Edit by @turiyacollection

March 1st - April 11th

Today, Venus retrogrades (vakrī वक्री) in the Vedic lunar mansion of Uttara Bhādrapadā (sidereal Pisces) उत्तरभद्रपदा, the Warrior Star. This mystical asterism is connected to the fertility of both earth and sky, the realm of dreamtime, and the excavation of the unconscious. It harmonizes universal mind, beckoning us to uncover hidden wisdom through humility, experience, and self-sacrifice—an energy that is transformative and karmic.

Śukra Graha, the revered planet of devotion, divine love, justice, restoration, relationships, and virility, is one of the three Jñāna Kārakas (significators of knowledge) and the Kāraka of union (yoga) and transportation.

In this retrograde through Uttara Bhādrapadā, Venus invites us to reflect on our emotional patterns and relationships, urging us to examine whether they align with our highest self. It is a time to reassess, reimagine, and review our connection to love, provisions, creativity, and self-worth.

The retrograde cycle offers us a sacred pause, encouraging us to consider how we might balance our lives by harmonizing the internal and external worlds. As Śukra transits this deeply transformative space, it becomes a moment to ask: Are the connections we are nurturing authentic, or are we simply repeating old patterns from the past?

Guru Śukrācārya, the holder of Sanjīvinī Vidyā, possessed the sacred wisdom to revive the dead. This knowledge aligns with the synodic cycle of Venus, which spans 584 days. Venus follows a rhythm of life, death, and rebirth: it is visible on the eastern horizon at sunrise for 263 days (symbolizing birth), disappears for 50 days (symbolizing death), and reappears as the evening star on the western horizon for another 263 days (resurrection/regeneration), only to disappear again for 8 days before the cycle repeats.

As Venus prepares to relinquish its reign as the evening star, we enter a rite of passage, confronting and healing old shadows and wounds. This transition, known as the inferior conjunction, occurs when Venus passes between the Earth and the Sun, disappearing from view for approximately 8 days. It then reemerges as the morning star, marking a symbolic rebirth.

Venus will be last visible as the evening star on March 19th. After this, it will disappear until March 23rd, when it enters its inferior conjunction and remains invisible for 8 days. The planet will then reappear as the morning star on March 26th. This pivotal transition mirrors the process of death and rebirth, offering us an invitation to reflect on our own cycles of transformation.

Venus follows a distinct rhythm, retrograding every eighteen months as part of an eight-year cycle. Reflecting on the lessons of the last Venus retrograde in 2017, we are invited to revisit themes from that time, particularly concerning relationships, creative projects, and emotional healing. Much like its celestial dance in 2017, this retrograde prompts us to assess whether our relational dynamics and emotional patterns have truly evolved since then.

On February 27th, Mercury entered Pisces, where it is debilitated—a position that can present as confusion, miscommunication, and difficulty maintaining clarity of thought. Adding complexity, Mercury will conjunct Venus retrograde on March 2nd, amplifying the need for introspection in matters of love, communication, and creativity. This alignment calls us to look inward, particularly regarding past relationships and unspoken thoughts that need to be aired or healed.

On March 15th, Mercury will also turn retrograde, amplifying the energies of reflection, review, and rethinking—especially around how we express ourselves emotionally and intellectually. This upcoming Mercury retrograde cycle, lasting until April 4th, will further invite us to slow down, reevaluate communication, and revisit unresolved issues from the past. A more detailed blog post on this will follow soon.

Artwork; Pinterest

Śukrācārya, as the Guru of the Āsuras, was known for his protection of his people. He is also associated with Paraśurāma, the sixth incarnation of Lord Viṣṇu. Paraśurāma's story is among the most violent of the incarnations, as he wielded an axe against the Kṣatriyas (warrior/political class) to rebuild a better society.

Pay close attention to where you draw lines between "your people" and others—and what you are willing to do to obtain and maintain your position or seat. Notice the actions that arise from a sense of injustice, particularly if fueled by vengeance or a desire for retribution.

Śukra's narrative is often linked to blindness or arrogance, reflecting a misalignment between one’s self-perception and the views of others. This can manifest as seeing oneself as either superior or inferior, diverging from reality.

Śukra Graha is the enjoyer—the one who delights in all sensory experiences: music, good company, fine food, mantra, and meditation. Venus imparts wisdom through experience, calling for complete absorption. He is the Samādhi maker, invoking unity with the divine at his highest octave.

This is beautifully exemplified in the story of MahāLakṣmī, who resides in Viṣṇu’s heart, as well as in the lives of saints born with Śukra in Pisces in their charts—embodiments of supreme devotion and the boundless grace of divine love.

As we navigate the deep waters of this transit, the energies associated with Śukra’s karakas will be amplified, requiring thoughtful self-reflection and a container for introspection. Pay close attention if you have major planets, your moon, or your Lagna (rising sign) in Pisces, or if you are currently running a cycle of Venus or Saturn.

This Venus retrograde in Uttara Bhādrapadā invites us to explore the depths of our relationships and creative pursuits, unraveling karmic patterns and allowing us to emerge transformed. Use this time wisely, for it is through wisdom, experience, and self-reflection that we can find clarity and renewal.

All My Relations | ॐ शुं शुक्राय नमः

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.”

Venus Retrograde Key Dates and Transitions

• January 28th: Venus enters Pisces

• February 1st: Venus enters Uttarabhadrapada (Pisces)

• March 1/2: Venus Retrogrades in Uttarabhadrapada (Pisces)

• April 12/13: Venus Stations Direct in Purvabharapada (Pisces)

• May 31st: Venus enters Aries

These dates mark the transition of Venus from an evening star to a morning star.

• Last visible as an evening star: March 19, 2025

• Inferior conjunction (invisible): March 23, 2025

• First visible as a morning star: March 26, 2025

New Moon in Śatabhiṣā: The Veiling Star

NEW MOON IN ŚATABHIṢĀ

Artwork: Edit by @turiyacollection

27th 16:45 PM PST | 28th 6:15 AM IST

The Sun and Moon converge at the heart of Sidereal Aquarius for February’s New Moon (amāvásyā), gracing the Vedic Lunar mansion of Śatabhiṣā (शतभिषा), The Veiling Star.

Śatabhiṣā, the constellation of the vow, is comprised of a hundred stars or physicians, ruled by Varuṇa, the god of the night sky and the cosmic and terrestrial waters. As the keeper of cosmic order, Varuṇa, the Sky Watcher, stirs within us the yearning to pierce the veil of darkness and enter the void.

Much like the horse—civilizations first sacred medicine—Śatabhiṣā embodies both mystical and tangible powers, capable of bearing heavy burdens over great distances. This nakṣatra is infused with the śakti, or potent energy to heal, support, and redeem. The trials and tribulations experienced under the star of the divine healer arise to rectify our path. What once felt disorienting may now serve as a vessel for profound self-realization and, ultimately, redemption.

In this moment, we are being churned, invited to dive deeper and pierce the veil. What is being revealed to you? Some knots may be untangling, while other moments call us to rise up and take responsibility.

Many have been brought to their knees in recent weeks, reaching to define a sense of meaning in their lives. Questions that may have been preoccupying your mind—Who am I? What is my purpose? Where am I going?—know that you are not alone. Many are grappling with the same inquiries.

As circumstances shift in our lives, so too must our narratives. Have you been drawing your sense of meaning from a title, a relationship, or an external belief system? This cycle invites a reawakening of our inner vitality, guiding us away from identifying with external labels and into a more profound understanding of ourselves.

All the difficulties, triggers, and apparent losses we experience are, in fact, the very medicine we need to dissolve the ego and return to the essence of our being. Much like the horse’s medicine, this energy equips us with the power and focus to step into the Unknown, to remember who we are, and to cultivate the capacity to derive meaning from a place of deep self-trust and understanding.

Beware the temptation to seek shortcuts to the answers you seek. “Diseases” born under Śatabhiṣā are difficult to heal and require grounding in consistent and disciplined routines. Wisdom gained during this phase offers profound healing, not only for oneself but also as a beacon of light to illuminate the path for others.

Know that this full power medicine and profound work available on this earth walk will meet with success when balanced by doses of play and joy. Venus and Mercury will soon station retrograde, and next month we step into eclipse season. Spend more time in self-reflection, in stillness with yourself. Recommit to spiritual practices and routines that nourish your soul. While this energy may present a sobering effect, it is rich with potential for transformation.

What may first appear as a challenge is an invitation to evolve—hold it with awareness, embrace change and stay patient, compassionate, and brave enough to walk through the dissolution process.

All My Relations

For more personalized guidance on how this transit influences your chart, I offer one-on-one consultations which you can book here:

Terence McKenna // “Nature loves courage. You make the commitment and nature will respond to that commitment by removing impossible obstacles. Dream the impossible dream and the world will not grind you under, it will lift you up. This is the trick. This is what all these teachers and philosophers who really counted, who really touched the alchemical gold, this is what they understood. This is the shamanic dance in the waterfall. This is how magic is done. By hurling yourself into the abyss and discovering it's a feather bed.”

Mahāśivarātri: Great Night of Śiva

MAHĀŚIVARĀTRI

February 26th

Mahāśivarātri, observed on the Caturdaśī tithi (14th lunar day) of the Kṛṣṇa Pakṣa (dark half) in the Māgha or Phālguna month, is one of the most spiritually activated days in the Vedic calendar. This night is celebrated as the great night of Lord Śiva, where he performs his heavenly dance and relieves us from our karmic burdens.

It is said that any spiritual practices performed on this day, including mantra recitation (especially Śiva mantras), fasting, and deep meditation, are enhanced a thousandfold during this auspicious time. The late hours of the night, in particular, are said to be charged with intense spiritual potency. Whomever fasts on this day, Lord Śiva will relieve you of the poisons and karmic debts accumulated in this life and all previous incarnations.

Mahāśivarātri is a profound and sacred observance dedicated to Lord Śiva, the eternal consciousness that dissolves illusion and grants liberation. The timing of Mahāśivarātri is deeply significant, as the waning moon symbolizes the dissolution of the ego, inviting seekers to surrender to the infinite stillness of Śiva. 

One perspective views this night as the moment when Śiva entered deep meditation, embodying the stillness that dissolves all illusions. It is believed that on this night, the cosmic energies align in a way that makes it highly conducive for inner awakening and meditation.

Mahāśivarātri is also believed to be the sacred night when Lord Śiva and Goddess Pārvatī were united in divine marriage. This marks the cosmic union of Śiva—the embodiment of pure consciousness—and Śakti—the dynamic force of creation. Their union is symbolized in the divine dance of Śiva, an eternal cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction, where stillness and movement coexist in harmony. This dance represents the interplay of the infinite and the finite, the unchanging and the ever-changing, reflecting the unity of opposites in the universe.

Devotees observe Mahāśivarātri with jāgaraṇa (night-long vigil), abhiṣeka (ritual bathing of the Śiva Liṅga), and chanting of the Pañcākṣarī mantra—"Oṁ Namaḥ Śivāya." Fasting, silence, and deep contemplation allow one to align with Śiva's transcendental essence, shedding layers of karma and moving closer to mokṣa (liberation).

This night is a gateway to the formless, where the dissolution of duality reveals the pure consciousness that pervades all. It is a night of transformation, where the aspirant, like the moon waning into darkness, merges into the luminous presence of Śiva—the Supreme Reality.

ॐ नमः शिवाय | Oṁ Namaḥ Śivāya 🔱

शिवम् शान्तं अद्वैतं चतुर्थं मन्यन्ते स आत्मा स विज्ञेयः।

Māṇḍūkya Upaniṣad // "Śivam śāntam advaitam caturtham manyante sa ātmā sa vijñeyaḥ."

"The peaceful, the blissful, the undivided is thought to be the fourth; that is the Self. This should be known, and this should be obtained."

Mars Stations Direct in Punarvasu: The Star of Renewal

MARS STATIONS DIRECT IN PUNARVASU

Artwork: Edit by @turiyacollection

February 23/24th

Mars is coming to a standstill. On December 7th, Mars retrograded in Puṣyā (Cancer) and turns direct on February 24th in the Vedic Lunar Mansion of Punarvasu पुनर्वसु  (Gemini), the Star of Renewal.

Symbolized by a quiver of arrows, Punarvasu holds the power to bestow prosperity and represents the light that returns after a storm. The current astral forces awaken a dynamic interplay of intellect and assertiveness.

Mars stations direct in Punarvasu, bringing a powerful potential for renewal and clarity in communication. This alignment sharpens our mental faculties, driving us to take decisive action in areas where we have previously encountered hesitation or confusion. 

Mars is the embodiment of action, drive, and assertiveness, igniting the inner willpower and one-pointed focus to push forward with confidence. This surge of energy helps us break through stagnation and tackle projects or goals that were previously on hold.

Yet, within Gemini’s dualistic nature, this moment also calls for discerning the fine balance between impulsivity and strategic thought. It is a time to channel the raw, fiery assertiveness of Mars into focused pursuits that require mental agility, while allowing Punarvasu's healing energies to guide our efforts with compassion and foresight.

This nakshatra holds the energy to encourage the integration of wisdom through experience and the revitalization of mind, family, and security. Arrows, associated with movement, urge us to strive toward our objectives, while the invigorating force of Mars energizes us to propel forward.

Allegedly born from the sweat of Lord Śiva during his tapas, Mars is said to be associated with the Mahāvidyā, Bagalāmukhi—the embodiment of speech and protection. Mars represents Agni Tattva—the fiery principle—and acts as the Deha Kāraka (significator of the body, strength, and immunity). He governs logic, courage, and the power to protect innocence. Spiritually, Mars reflects tapasya (disciplined practice) that kindles inner transformation and protection.

You may have felt a bit restless, as if you're taking two steps forward and four steps back, eager to move into the next phase. Just as nature is refreshed and harmonious after a storm, this transit offers a breath of fresh air—a renewal of energy. 

You may find yourself called to elevate your efforts to a new level, yet it's crucial to balance momentum with mindfulness. In these final moments of Mars’ retrograde, pause, reflect, and recalibrate your direction before moving forward with clarity and purpose.

As Mars re-enters Cancer on March 30th and moves back into Puṣyā on April 12th, we’ll revisit themes from November and December of last year. This will offer a moment to reassess and align with the cycles of energy that were set in motion.

Be especially mindful of your energy levels and direction if you’re experiencing a cycle of Jupiter or Saturn, as their influence may amplify or shift the way you engage with these transformative forces.

All my Relations

ॐ क्रं क्लीं क्रौं सः मङ्गलाय नमः

Full Moon in Āśleṣā: The Clinging Star

FULL MOON पूर्णिमा

Feb 12th 19:23 IST | 5:53 AM PST

Artwork: British Museum | Asavari Ragini c.1740, Deccan

The full moon (pūrṇimā) of February rises in the Vedic lunar mansion of Āśleṣā आश्लेषा (Cancer), The Embracing Star. Just as the coiled energy at the base of the spine yearns to merge with its beloved in the crown, Āśleṣā stirs the curiosity to delve deeper and unite with one’s desired outcome.

The new moon in Śravaṇa (Capricorn) initiated a cycle calling us to release distractions, realign our priorities, and attune our listening to the inner voice, intuition, and the unspoken word.

Now, this energy culminates in an initiation—an invitation to embrace the balance between virtue and vice, the dance of our primal nature that must be harmonized before we ascend to our higher dominion. This journey of transmutation, turning poison into medicine, mirrors the shadow energies entwined within our ego. Here, you must become an alchemist, learning to digest this poison. These shadows, often buried deep in the subconscious, await acknowledgment and transformation, granting true sovereignty over the self.

The energies within Āśleṣā, positioned at the gaṇḍānta point—the liminal juncture between water and fire—hold immense potential. Ruled by the Nāgas, the heavenly serpents, and symbolizing a karmic knot, this subtle energy calls for openness and patience as we refine the art of transmutation. Āśleṣā, also known as The Clinging Star, possesses the shakti to unite us with our desires, weaving together seemingly unconnected elements to manifest a singular vision.

Your intuition is sharpened now. Elevate yourself beyond emotional reactions. Employ strategy and goal orientation while tempering your agendas. Consistency, patience, and discipline will be your allies in realizing your cherished ambitions and stepping into your legacy. Embrace your darkness, knowing that healing emerges through the extraction of poison. Depending on where Cancer falls in your chart, you may find yourself guiding another through their own metamorphosis.

What are you prepared to shed to reach your desired goal?

All my Relations

“The degree to which a person can grow is directly proportional to the amount of truth he can accept about himself without running away.” ― Leland Val Van De Wall

― Leland Val Van De Wall

Jupiter Direct in Rohiṇī: The Star of Ascent

JUPITER STATIONS DIRECT IN ROHIṆĪ

Artwork: Pinterest

On February 4th, Jupiter (Guru), the benevolent teacher, stationed direct in Rohiṇī रोहिणी (Sidereal Taurus), the Star of Ascent. After months of retrograde motion since October 9, Jupiter’s forward momentum restores clarity and expansion, offering renewed stability in areas where growth may have felt uncertain or stalled. 

Rohiṇī, the Moon’s most beloved nakshatra, is a place of magnetic attraction, abundance, and creative intelligence. This red star, Aldebaran, stands among the brightest in the night sky, illuminating the path toward both material and spiritual prosperity.

Jupiter’s retrograde journey took us through the refining energies of Mṛgaśīrṣa, the Scorching Star, prompting deep inquiry into our desires and the direction of our seeking. Mṛgaśīrṣa’s restless search had us questioning what is truly worth pursuing, stripping away illusions to reveal a more authentic sense of purpose. 

Now, as Jupiter regains forward motion in Rohiṇī, we are called to ground those insights into tangible creation. Rohiṇī supports growth on the material plane, making this a potent period for laying strong foundations in finance, relationships, and personal expansion. With Jupiter’s wisdom guiding this process, there is an invitation to align with enduring prosperity rather than fleeting gain.

Jupiter reenters Mṛgaśīrṣa from April 10th to June 13th, rekindling themes of curiosity, exploration, and intellectual refinement last illuminated between August 20th and October 9th. This return calls for a reassessment of our chosen path, urging us to realign our pursuits with our highest truth and ensure our investments—of time, energy, and intention—are placed wisely.

When Jupiter enters Gemini on May 7th, the focus will turn toward learning, adaptability, and the expansion of ideas. For now, the invitation is to cultivate steady, intentional growth—one rooted in wisdom, beauty, and the fertile ground of your highest aspirations.

Those in a Jupiter or Moon Daśā (or sub-period), as well as those with natal planets in Rohiṇī, will experience this transit’s uplifting influence most profoundly.

All My Relations

Terence McKenna // “Nature loves courage. You make the commitment and nature will respond to that commitment by removing impossible obstacles. Dream the impossible dream and the world will not grind you under, it will lift you up. This is the trick. This is what all these teachers and philosophers who really counted, who really touched the alchemical gold, this is what they understood. This is the shamanic dance in the waterfall. This is how magic is done. By hurling yourself into the abyss and discovering it's a feather bed.”

Sūrya Jayantī: Birthday of the Sun

SŪRYA JAYANTĪ सूर्य जयंती

Artwork: Pinterest

Today marks the auspicious occasion of Sūrya Jayantī, also known as Ratha Saptamī—the birth of Lord Sūrya, the eternal source of vitality, truth, and illumination. Falling on the seventh tithi (Saptamī) in the waxing phase (Shukla Pakṣa) of Māgha, this day is revered as a gateway to spiritual awakening, clarity, and renewal. Just as the Sun’s ceaseless journey across the heavens sustains all life, today invites us to align with that same steady, unwavering light within.

Sūrya, the all-seeing witness of dhárma, is the very embodiment of divine consciousness in motion. He rides his celestial chariot, drawn by seven radiant horses—each representing a Vedic meter, a planetary force, and the spectrum of cosmic intelligence. 

He is the one who measures time itself, as he moves one degree a day and never waxes or wanes. He is the giver of life and health, Ātma Kāraka—the indicator of the soul’s journey—illuminating clarity of purpose and inner radiance. Governing Sundays and ruling over Siṁha (Leo), the sign of kingship, strength, and unwavering will, he bestows vitality and the courage to walk the path of dhárma.

His brilliance is mirrored in Lord Rāma, the seventh incarnation of Lord Viṣṇu, who walked the earth as the perfect embodiment of righteousness, patience, and sovereignty. Just as Lord Rāma’s story is about sambandha, or relationship, Sūrya’s birth story shows how unconditional love and sacrifice give rise to great boons and blessings all around. This birth story also conveys the secret of how the turmoil and churning of the two give birth to the one, the singular.

Sūrya is also linked to Śiva, the supreme ascetic, who is often depicted with the Sun’s golden hue at dawn and invoked through the transformative hymn Śrī-Rudram, aligning one with the primordial power of light and dissolution.

In Nakṣatra Jyotiṣa, Sūrya presides over three luminous constellations:

• Kṛttikā (where Agni, the god of fire, purifies and refines)

• Uttara Phālgunī (bestowing divine grace and the fruits of effort)

• Uttara Aṣāḍhā (where victory is won through perseverance and truth)

He is exalted (uccha) in Meṣa (Aries), where his strength is undiminished, and debilitated (nīca) in Tulā (Libra), where his sovereignty is tested in the balance of relationships and external validation. In Āyurvedic astrology, Sūrya governs the heart, eyes, bones, and circulation, sustaining the vital force (prāṇa) that animates all existence. His constitution is Pitta, his metal gold, his gemstone ruby, and his offerings include red flowers, wheat, jaggery, and pure ghee.

Artwork by Jahnavi Lucas | Samadhi Collective

To invoke Sūrya’s grace on this sacred day, one may:

• Offer Arghya (libations of water) to the rising Sun at dawn.

• Practice Sūrya Namaskār, the yogic salutation to the Sun, to cultivate vitality, flexibility, and longevity.

• Recite the Āditya Hṛdayam, the hymn of invincible radiance, chanted by Rāma before his victory over Rāvaṇa.

• Chant Lord Rāma’s mantras, such as Śrī Rāma Jaya Rāma Jaya Jaya Rāma, to fortify one’s inner strength and dhármic resolve.

• Chant the Gāyatrī Mantra, invoking the highest light of wisdom.

• Observe a fast or consume only sattvic foods to purify the solar channels.

• Engage in dāna (selfless giving), particularly offering wheat, copper, or red cloth to those in need.

• Sit in meditation with the Sun at dawn, visualizing its golden light dissolving all impurities and restoring balance.

Sūrya is the cosmic reminder that all things move in cycles—darkness yields to light, ignorance to wisdom, and inertia to action. To align with his grace is to walk with purpose, uphold dhárma, and shine fearlessly in the face of adversity.

May the radiance of Sūrya illumine our path and burn away all that obstructs the light of our highest Self.

All My Relations | ॐ सूर्याय नमः

“What would your life look like if you had the energy of the sun? The radiance of the stars? Love as infinite as the oceans? What if you had perfect health? Radiant Beauty? Strength in body and a mind of brilliance that always served you, and never erred? This is the promise of the Vedas: A wellness that draws out “the splendor of the personality that expresses itself in love, courage, creativity, and a melting tenderness that draws all hearts.”

— Eknath Eswaran

Sarasvatī Vasant Pañcamī 🦢

Vasanta Pañcamī 

वसन्तपञ्चमी

Pinterest

Celebrated annually on the fifth day in the bright half of Māgha, today marks the festival honoring goddess Sarasvatī (goddess of l Learning, wisdom & music), Vasantapañcamī.

Sarasvatī is known as the goddess of wisdom, language, music and the arts. She symbolizes that creative intelligence, who is invoked to awaken within us the memory of who we really are. 

Consort to Lord Brahmā, she is that shakti (power) who is the original sound, the nād, who exists as the channels in our body, the invisible river, who’s impulse spurs Brahmā to breathe life into creation.

Many honor Vasanta Pañcamī or Sarasvatī pūjā by wearing yellow, offering and eating yellow foods, as it is said to be Sarasvatī favorite color. This is symbolic for the fertility of spring, with its budding flowers and ripening crops. Today is held auspicious to begin one’s studies, take initation and engage in the arts and learning of all kinds.  

Pinterest

There are many legends associating this festival with the blossoming of love, passion and emotional anticipation  — one is remembered as the day when Kāmadeva (god of love) was said to be approached by the Rishi’s (seers) to interrupt Lord Siva’s meditation so Pārvatī, after her arduous tapasya, could receive him as her husband. When Siva awakened from his meditation, his third eye was said to burn Kāmadeva to ashes.

Aum Aim Saraswatyai Namaha | ॐ ऐं सरस्वत्यै नमः

Gupta Māgha Navarātri: Nine nights of the Divine Feminine

Gupta Māgha Navarātri began on Śukla Pratipadā (the first lunar day of the waxing phase) in the Vedic month of Māgha on January 30th. 

This sacred and esoteric celebration honors the Divine Feminine. Unlike the more widely observed Śārada or Chaitra Navarātris, this Gupta Navarātri is shrouded in subtlety, offering a unique opportunity for inner work and awakening.

These nine nights are dedicated to the worship of Śakti in her most transformative forms, particularly Mātaṅgī, who embodies knowledge and creativity, and aspects of Kālī, representing empowerment and transformation. As this Navarātri coincides with the onset of spring, it symbolizes renewal and growth, making it an ideal time for spiritual awakening.

Pinterest: Mātaṅgī

Devotees engage in specific rituals such as Ghaṭasthāpana and daily pujas dedicated to each form of Goddess Durgā (navadurgā). This period encourages deep introspection and meditation, allowing seekers to deepen their connection to the sacred through sādhanā, mantras, and ritual observances.

Gupta Navarātri is considered more esoteric, often observed by serious spiritual seekers, who engage in deeper rituals aimed at attaining divine wisdom and protection. The festival culminates on Śukla Navamī (the ninth lunar day) on February 7, 2025, marking the fulfillment of this sacred journey into divine alignment.

ॐ दुं दुर्गायै नमः | Om Dum Durgāyai Namah

New Moon in Śravaṇa: The Listening Star

NEW MOON

January 29th 4:35 AM PST | 18:05 IST

Our first New Moon of the year aligns the Sun and Moon on January 29th in the Vedic lunar mansion of Śravaṇa स्रवण (Capricorn), the Listening Star. This cycle calls us to release distractions, realign with our priorities, and attune our listening to the inner voice, intuition, and the unspoken word.

Śravaṇa is symbolized by an ear and a row of three uneven footprints. It is associated with communication of all kinds, the power of connectivity, learning, language, ancient knowledge, oral traditions, and music. This asterism is ruled by Lord Viṣṇu, who maintains Brahmā’s dream and comes to restore balance whenever dharma (righteousness) declines and adharma (unrighteousness) rises.

This New Moon also marks the Chinese New Year, ushering in the Year of the Wood Snake, and is celebrated as Mauni Amāvásyā—a day of profound introspection. Rooted in sacred tradition, it invites devotees to embrace silence, attuning their inner being to the rhythm and pulse of the celestial architecture of nature. Such stillness is said to deepen spiritual awareness and illuminate clarity.

Through divine guidance and inner listening, you are being invited to take a deeper look at what is most important in your life. The mythology surrounding this nakshatra symbolizes the journey of expelling demons—desires, distractions, and habits that no longer serve—from heaven, the place of priority, to restore order in the universe. This restoration occurs through the victory of placing the gods—our highest values—back in their rightful position.

This theme echoes the story of Lord Viṣṇu’s Vāmana avatāra, when he approached King Bali in the form of a humble dwarf-brāhmaṇa, seeking three steps of land. Despite warnings from his guru, Śukrācārya, Bali granted the request, only to witness Viṣṇu expand to his cosmic form—covering the heavens in one step, the earth in the second, and with the third, placing Bali in the underworld. His surrender to dharma reminds us that true sovereignty comes not from possession but from alignment with higher wisdom.

Clarify what you value most in your life and give it top priority. Work with what you have, where you are, in the present moment. Continue leaning into the vulnerability of wholeheartedly confronting deep-rooted fears and shadow behaviors that have been stirring beneath the surface. Define your boundaries and practice restraint as you find balance between giving and receiving love.

You may continue to feel a sense of restriction and emotional uncertainty. Practice surrendering to the unknown while listening to your inner guidance and the unspoken words of the Universe. Even amidst adversity, and the awareness that we may not all share the same path, perspective, or beliefs, this is a time for walking together.

There is a deep yearning to move as a conduit for Source—to become like a hollow bone, allowing the rhythm of the universe to flow through you so that you move effortlessly to the beat of your own drum. This is a time for piercing the veil, cultivating unity, patience, and healing, realigning with priorities, and upleveling your health routine.

In this process of deep reflection, we can draw inspiration from Vālmīki, who transformed from a bandit into a revered sage under the guidance of Nārada Muni. His journey of redemption reminds us that even the most troubled pasts can lead to profound transformation when met with sincerity and openness.

We are being churned right now—deepening into the process. What is being revealed to you? Can you listen a little more intently? Perhaps not in search of an answer, but for an invitation of where a little more light, love, acceptance, or even forgiveness is requested of you.

Some things are being untangled, while other moments call us to step up and take responsibility. The power of connection is awakening, along with our emotional duty to others—without expectation. Continue to stay open, rooted in your heart’s most authentic offerings and unconditional love.

For more personalized guidance on how this transit influences your chart, I offer one-on-one consultations, book here.

For our monthly Vidya and Chai Group Meditation and Sacred Story telling please join our what’s app group or email be to RSVP for our next session on February 11th.

All My Relations

"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." —Brené Brown

Venus in Pisces

VENUS ENTERS PISCES: January 27th - May 30th

Artowrk: Uknown | lady with hawk, opaque watercolor on paper | Guler school of Art, V&A Museum, ca. 1750

Today, Śukra (Venus) transits into sidereal Pisces, his sign of exaltation, where he will remain through May 30th. This extended stay is due to his retrograde motion from March 1st to April 12th. This cycle holds the promise of profound awakening and deep transformation in your relationships, creative process, and artistic pursuits — all of which will be heightened during the retrograde period.

Śukra Graha, the venerable planet of devotion, divine love, justice, restoration, relationships, conveniences, and virility, is one of the three Jñāna Kārakas (significators of knowledge). He is the Kāraka of union (yoga) and transportation. 

Venus is revered as the Guru to the Asuras, beings whose nature is bound to power, ambition, and a fierce opposition to the Devas. He is the keeper of Mṛtusañjīvanī Vidyā, the sacred knowledge that holds the power to awaken the dead, and  also reigns as the lord of semen and seed. Venus governs Friday, the southeast direction, and the signs of Taurus and Libra, while also activating the constellations Bharaṇī, Pūrva Phalgunī, and Pūrvāṣāḍhā. 

As the embodiment of Jala Tattva (the water element), his metal is silver, diamond is his gem, and his color resembles the  delicate white hue of a jasmine flower. His constitution is Kapha-Vata — a blend that nurtures both stability and fluidity.

On February 1st, Venus will enter the Vedic lunar mansion of Uttara Bhādrapadā (उत्तरभद्रपदा), also known as the Warrior Star. This nakṣatra, said to be the seat of MahāLakṣmī, is symbolized by the back of a funeral cot and the serpent of the deep sea. It is connected to fertility—both of the earth and sky—excavating the unconscious, harmonizing universal mind, and gaining wisdom through experience, humility, and self-sacrifice.

During this transit, we are called to investigate deeper into our relationships with justice, forgiveness, compassion, self-expression, harmony, and the commitments we make—whether in personal bonds, marketplace dealings, or business contracts. This is a potent time to explore the sambandha (connections) we share with others.

Śukra, as the Guru of the Asuras, was known for protecting his people and tribe. He is also associated with Paraśurāma, the sixth incarnation of Lord Viṣṇu. Paraśurāma’s story is among the most violent incarnations, as he had to wield an axe against the Kṣatriyas (warrior/political class) to rebuild a better society.

Pinterest

Pay close attention to where you are drawing lines between the idea of your people and others, and what you are willing to do to obtain and maintain your desired position or seat. Notice the actions that may arise from a sense of injustice or unfairness—especially if fueled by vengeance or revenge. 

Śukra’s narrative is often linked to blindness or a kind of arrogance, which reflects a misalignment between one’s self-perception and the views of others. This can manifest as seeing oneself as either superior or inferior in ways that diverge from reality.

Śukra Graha is the enjoyer—the one who delights in all sensory experiences: music, good company, fine food, mantra, and meditation. Venus imparts wisdom through experience and calls for complete absorption. He is the Samādhi maker, invoking unity with the divine at his highest octave.

This is beautifully exemplified through the story of MahāLakṣmī, who takes up residence in Viṣṇu’s heart, and the many saints with Śukra in Pisces in their birth charts who were true embodiments of supreme devotion and the boundless grace of divine love.

This is an important time for self-reflection as we tread the deep waters of this transit. Pay close attention if you have major planets, your moon, or your Lagna (rising sign) in Pisces, or if you are currently running a cycle of Venus, Saturn, or Jupiter.

For more personalized guidance on how this transit influences your chart, I offer one-on-one consultations, which you can book here.

All My Relations | ॐ शुं शुक्राय नमः

• January 28th: Venus enters Pisces | Venus Rahu Conjunction through May 28th

• February 1st: Venus enters Uttarabhadrapada (Pisces)

• March 1/2: Venus Retragrades in Uttarabhadrapada (Pisces)

• March 31st: Venus Saturn Conjunction in Purvabharapada

• April 12/13: Venus Stations Direct in Purvabharapada (Pisces)

Makara Saṅkrānti: Kite Festival & Uttarāyaṇa

MAKARA SAṄKRĀNTI  मकर संक्रान्ति //

Artwork: Pinterest

The Sun, known as Sūrya in the Vedic tradition, makes its annual transition from (sidereal) Sagittarius (Dhanu) to Capricorn (Makar) on January 14, depending on your location. 

This festival marks a new beginning and initiates the auspicious time of Uttarāyaṇa. Uttarāyaṇa is a combination of two Sanskrit words, “uttara” (North) and “ayana” (movement).

Uttarāyaṇa spans six months, commencing as the Sun embarks on its northern journey and culminating with the Sun in Gemini (Sidereal) around June 21st, marking the initiation of dakṣiṇāyana, the Sun’s southward movement.

As the Sun transitions into Capricorn, it heralds the commencement of its six-month journey northward; however, this ascent has already begun since the winter solstice on December 21.

Notably, the Sun's southernmost position is observed in Sagittarius (sidereal), coinciding with this solstice, when it reaches its lowest point in the sky—its nadir—from an earthly perspective. This phenomenon underscores a unique instance where the Western Tropical zodiac, grounded in seasonal changes, aligns with astronomical accuracy.

Termed the ‘Day of the Gods,’ this period (December/January - June/July) is regarded as highly auspicious, as the devatas (deities) are believed to be awake.This period is marked by prosperity, expansion, and heightened spiritual development. 

With the Gods awake and active, they are deemed more benevolent in this cycle, showering blessings upon the fruits of your actions, rituals, ceremonies, and commitments made during this auspicious time.

The hours preceding and following saṅkrānti (the monthly transition of the Sun) are deemed unsettling for the Sun. This shift can be likened to the process of relocating homes, involving packing, moving, and settling into a new phase.

Artwork: Pinterest

This portal holds profound significance for nurturing spiritual growth, as it invites inward reflection on the previous month and strategic envisioning/planning for the upcoming month.

Today is a momentous occasion at the Mahā Kumbha Mela, as countless devotees gather for the revered Amṛta Snāna, a sacred dip in the holy waters, symbolizing purification and spiritual renewal.

Additionally, this day holds significance as we honor the legacy of Bhīṣma Pitāmaha, a revered figure in the Mahābhārata, known for his unwavering commitment to dharma and his formidable vow of celibacy. As a paragon of virtue and integrity, he was blessed with the divine boon of icchāmrityu, granting him the power to choose the moment of his death.

In a profound act of surrender, he embraced his destiny, relinquishing his mortal form as he awaited the sun's ascent into Uttarāyaṇa, symbolizing renewal and liberation. His departure illuminated the path to salvation for countless souls, reminding us of the timeless values of honor, duty, and sacrifice that he embodied. 

ॐ सूर्याय नमः | Aum Sūryaya Namah

Full Moon in Punarvasu: The Star of Renewal

FULL MOON

Artwork: Unknown | Painting; gouache on watermarked paper, Ram holding a bow and a crescent tipped arrow, Trichinopoly, ca.1825.

January 13th 3:56 AM IST | 14:26 PST

The first Full Moon (Pūrṇimā) of the year rises in the Vedic lunar mansion of Punarvasu (Sidereal Gemini), the Star of Renewal. This is a time of profound reflection and rejuvenation—a moment when light returns after the storm, bringing hope and the promise of abundance.

Punarvasu, symbolized by a quiver of arrows, embodies the energy of rebuilding and rebirth. Arrows, when directed with focus and intention, always find their mark, returning full circle with purpose—just as the energy of Punarvasu teaches us to align our actions with our higher vision. 

Similarly, the goddess Aditi, ruler of Punarvasu, is pregnant with puṇya (spiritual merit), representing nourishment and fertility. This Full Moon activates our inner resources, and asks us to protect and replenish our spiritual bank account with renewed vitality. The seeds we’ve sown in the darkness begin to sprout, signaling that prosperity and renewal are at hand.

The Full Moon’s energy echoes the tale of Lord Ram, born under this nakshatra. His exile and subsequent return to Ayodhya symbolize the cyclical nature of life—how light and victory emerge from hardship. Just as Ram’s return marked his rightful restoration, this Full Moon calls us to embrace our own path of recovery and renewal. It offers a second chance to reclaim what was lost, rebuild what was broken, and find strength in resilience.

Now, more than ever, we’re urged to direct our energies with intention. This is a time to nurture what truly matters—whether that is our health, our relationships, or our long-term goals.

There is a call to protect our most sacred resources and restore order—placing everything in its rightful position. We must cultivate the right energy, protect our immune system, create space for abundance, and honor the wisdom keepers and wisdom that will guide us forward. This call can only be answered by a mind that has become still and established in it’s own seat.

Only a land or person who’s immune system is low can be “attacked” from the outside.

During this Full Moon, take stock of what needs to be renewed in your life. Reflect on the lessons of the past, but resist the temptation to rush forward. Pace yourself and trust in the divine timing of your journey. You may feel as if you’re taking two steps forward and four steps back. Like the arrows of Punarvasu, your efforts will circle back, bringing rewards in their own time.

Focus on grounding your emotions, clarifying your goals, and nurturing your personal growth. Stay aligned with your higher purpose, and resist distractions that might pull you away from your vision.

All my Relations

Join us for Vidyā & Chai—our monthly Full Moon gathering of meditation, storytelling, and reflection

Toko-pa-Turner // “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!’