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.

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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.’

Saturn in Pūrva Bhādrapadā: December 27th - April 29th

Śani in Pūrva Bhādrapadā: December 27th - April 29th

Artwork: Pinterest

Today, Śani (saturn) re-enters the Vedic Lunar Mansion of Pūrva Bhādrapadā पूर्वभाद्रपदा (Aquarius), the Scorching Star. We’re on the other side of gathering more information, distilling, and integrating the new found clarity that has presented itself.

We’re at a crossroads of sorts, one that will define the sucess of the lessons learned during Saturn’s retrograde period. This is a time to pause and reflect and act without impulsivity. Will you choose to commit fully to the timeline you’ve been tending to, or will you opt to birth anew, as you pivot and step whole wholeheartedly into a new timeline?

We’re revising energies that first began to emerge in the beginning of April and that were punctuated by Saturns Retrograde movement from August - October. Take your time to assess, adapt, and build lasting foundations. 

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 turmoil of the split that births the wisdom of neutrality. 

The Burning Pairsr’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. 

Artwork: Shiva/Trimurti. Dressed in a tiger skin, he is depicted (ekapada). Comapany School, Tamil Nadu, c. 1820

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.

Saturn, the one who is measured and dilberate, creates the foundation for the split energies (Nāḍī’s of the Sun and Moon) through our yogic practices, to ascend through the central channel. The awakening of these energies nourishes our spiritual senses, invoking complete absorption and unity with the divine.

This shift marks a powerful reset, transforming introspection into action. Saturn, the planet of restraint and duty, who embodies the essence of patience, is urging us to implement the lessons learned during his retrograde phase and specifically August to October. It’s time to move forward — remember, this energy favors steady, deliberate progress.

Dare to weave the narrative that echoes in your heart. Weave your magic. This transit demands deep awareness and space for observation—take your time. keep your motivations in check and know that this time will be defined by the goals you set for yourself and your full commitment them.

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

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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 

Full Moon in Mṛgaśirā: The Searching Star

FULL MOON

Artwork:19th Century South Asian archives, British Museum. Gauri  

The last full moon (pūrṇimā) of 2024 rose in the Vedic lunar mansion of Mṛgaśirā मृगशिरा (sidereal Taurus), the Seeking Star. With the bright moon and Mercury stationing direct, we’re being called to nourish and rejuvenate, to breathe life into our waking dream, and gradually move with newfound clarity into reintegration.

Interwoven with emerging truth, this cycle prompts an inner quest—an urge to seek something higher: a belief system that grounds you and a deeper sense of belonging. Some aspects of your life may feel dismantled, while others are coming into focus. Surrender to this process. The unease you may be experiencing is often an initiation, preparing you for what lies ahead.

Mṛgaśirā is said to be the birth star of Pārvatī, the consort of Lord Śiva. Symbolized by soma (divine nectar), it represents that which is magnetic and receptive, that which draws life to itself and awakens a thirst for deeper understanding. Soma, associated with Chandrā (the Moon), embodies the lunar principle of water, nourishing both our spirit and our evolution. 

It is said that through the union of love and wisdom, Lord Śiva imparted to his beloved Pārvatī the secret teachings of Guhya Vidya, the esoteric wisdom of yoga. This divine transmission illuminated her soul, revealing her role as both a devoted partner and a radiant teacher, guiding all seekers on the eternal journey toward self-realization.

Artwork: Pinterest | Pārvatī

Connected to a female serpent and known as the Searching Star, Mṛgaśirā carries a generative force which desires the effort and energy required to weave a new timeline. This is a time to nourish and rejuvenate, to reflect, and to dream anew. Rather than letting the pressure of this energy propel you prematurely into action, create space to pause and go deeper.

In moments when stability feels uncertain and new beginnings emerge, it is essential to step back and honor the integrity of what is unfolding. By detaching from heightened pressure or feelings of lack, we allow ourselves a clearer perspective—and often, the answers we seek are closer than we realize. 

Instead of grasping for clarity, allow the answers to reveal themselves naturally. Revisiting past connections or reconsidering once-dismissed options may lead to unexpected resolutions. Neither accepting nor rejecting. Release what has been restricting your flow—whether through clinging, avoidance, or force.

Artwork: Pinterest | Dattātreya Jayantī

Mercury stationed direct today, opposing the full moon in the constellation Anurādhā (Scorpio). As we move through its shadow period over the next few weeks, the subtle impulses of your intuition will reawaken. Take this time to distill the wisdom and lessons that have emerged since mid-November. 

Anurādhā holds the śakti (energy) to turn the unconscious conscious—through the power of devotion. We’re in a mode of gathering more information now. Inner dreams are beginning to awaken and gain momentum on the material plane.

When we release attachment and open our awareness, we often find that what we’ve been searching for has been quietly waiting all along. Through the powerful realizations that are stepping forward now, track what is calling for your unwavering devotion. What, in this moment, merits your full and dedicated presence, aligning you with your highest truth and divine timeline?

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Just slow things down and it becomes more beautiful.” — David Lynch.

Mars Retrogrades in Puṣyā: The Star of Nourishment

Mars Retrogrades in Puṣyā

मंगल वक्री

Bagalamukhi, Punjab Hills. Circa 1820. Unknown - Bagalāmukhī बगलामुखी

December 6th - February 24th

On December 6/7th mars (maṅgal) retrograded in the Vedic Lunar Mansion of Puṣyā पुष्या (Cancer), the Star of Nourishment. Retrograde season is in full effect with mars, mercury and jupiter in vakrī. The energies have elevated to the next level with Sun passing through the karmic gaṇḍānta point (between fire and water - Scorpio) through the 18th.

Mars retrogrades approximately every two years, marking a significant phase where its influence on our actions and motivations is notably altered. The Sanskrit word for retrograde planets is vakrī—meaning twisted or crooked, symbolizing a planet’s altered energy flow as it appears to move backward in the sky. Puṣyā is where maṅgal becomes nīca (debilitated), and its energies, often misunderstood, can manifest as a delicate dance between emotional nourishment and assertive action. 

During this cycle you may experience waning motivation, making even simple tasks feel burdensome, accompanied by emotional fluctuations that swing between bursts of energy and lethargy. This period invites us to manage our energy and reactions carefully, as impulsivity may increase, leading to quicker responses and burnout. Practice regulating your nervous system and prioritize rest.

Allegedly born from the sweat of Lord Śiva during his tapas, maṅgal graha is said to be associated with the Mahāvidyā, Bagalāmukhi. She is said to embody the power of speech, is often associated with the ability to silence enemies and protect devotees from harm.

Mars is known as Deha Karaka — the significator of the body, the heart, and the immune system, as he is the defense system within our bodies. He is the carrier of Agni (fire) tattva, the indicator of one-pointed focus, the lord of logic, power, preservation, and violence. He represents protection, particularly the protection of innocence. 

The wealth we seek here isthe  spiritual energy or puṇya (merit), accumulated through tapasya and graced by divine guidance. Drinking from this reservoir empowers us to protect our nervous system, home, and community while channeling nourishment to sustain material abundance—avoiding distraction and burnout.

The śhakti of this nakṣatra holds the energy of invocation—initiating the ability to harness creative and spiritual energy, which provides the wisdom and abundance to nourish both the spiritual and material worlds. This lunar mansion is symbolized by the milk-yielding udder of the cow, which is impartial to all that she nourishes. 

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Just as the mother gives love unconditionally, without question or thought of return, the same food or knowledge that assimilates experience into wisdom and transmutes nourishment into usable energy can also manifest as indigestion when consumed thoughtlessly or in excess. 

Much like the goat, the animal medicine for this Nakṣatra, which consumes without regard for the consequences and is later confronted with all that it has ingested, you may find yourself in a situation that compels you to confront certain truths about what you've been 'taking in'—be it experiences, habits, or emotional baggage.

As the retrograde unfolds, Mars reenters the constellation of Punarvasu on January 13th, and into Gemini on the 21st—offering us a chance to revisit energies from the fall. With heightened intensity during retrogrades, it’s essential to slow down, process information thoughtfully, and remain present and patient with your goals. Embrace this time as an opportunity for a potent course correction, transformation, and renewal, allowing the wisdom of past lessons to inform your path forward.

This retrograde invites a reflective pause to nourish both body and spirit with intention. Use this time to reassess your actions, cultivate patience, and align your efforts with clarity. By slowing down and revisiting past lessons, you can emerge renewed, with a deeper understanding of how to protect and channel your energy toward lasting growth and abundance.

ॐ ह्रीं बगलामुखी देव्यै नमः 

“Having never left the house you are looking for the way home.”   Nisargadatta Maharaj

NOTEWORTHY DATES:

January 13th: Mars re-enters Punarvasu

January 21st: Mars re-enters Gemini 

February 23/24: Mars stations direct in Punarvasu (Gemini)

March 29: Mars re-enters Cancer

New Moon in Anurādhā: The Star of Success

NEW MOON अमावस्या

Artwork: Pinterest - Sant Mīrābāī

11/30 22:22 PST | 12/1 14:21 Bali

The new moon rises in the Vedic lunar mansion of Anurādhā अनुराधा (Scorpio), the Star of Success. Anurādhā awakens the potential for healing in relationships and sparks the ability to cultivate devotion to something greater than oneself — to a higher love. This is a potent alignment, inviting you to ground yourself in stability while embracing the transformative power of devotion, healing, and renewal.

This constellation seeks to build and harmonize with community, to collaborate and form deep and sincere friendships and lasting alliances. Anurādhā is a universal solvent which naturally bridges discordant energies. Opportunities for great healing are initiated around the renewal of friendships and the beginning of new bonds. We’re readjusting our relationship with devotion through the power of inner worship. 

Anurādhā holds the śakti (energy) to turn the unconscious, conscious. Just like the majestic lotus flower that emerges from the mud, guided by the light of the Sun, you too will reach your goal in time. Be courageous and daring to go deeper than you’ve been willing to go — face the things that are unconscious now and bring it into the light of awareness. As this lunar mansion teaches us, it only takes a spark to ignite the thirst for deeper understanding.

The energy of worship (rādhāna śakti) becomes empowered here — what are you willing to offer your unwavering devotion to? Śrīmatī Rādhārāṇī (Lord Kṛṣṇa’s eternal consort), born under this very star of Anurādhā, embodies the highest expression of devotion — a love so selfless and pure that it transcends all worldly boundaries. Her steadfastness, even in the face of separation, reveals the transformative power of patience and humility, qualities intimately tied to Saturn’s lessons. To contemplate her is to glimpse the soul’s ultimate potential for union with the Divine, a devotion that endures beyond time itself.

The new moon aligns with Mercury retrograde — that which you seek, the protection of your nevrous system, and the reclamation of your seat of power — is energized by turning to the inward path, tracking roots of who you are. Seek the hidden counsel of the dark goddess, the primordial force that dwells in the depths of your being, guiding you to reclaim the throne at the center of your wheel. This is the essence of Anurādhā’s wisdom — the power to transmute darkness into light through unwavering devotion and self-discovery.

When both Jupiter and Saturn cast their gaze on the same house, they invoke not only a profound longing for something enduring but also the grace to manifest it in material form. Jupiter bestows optimism and abundance, while Saturn instills discipline and structure, weaving a powerful synergy that nurtures the realization of lasting, tangible results. This alignment invites further reflection on how we can harness the rhythms and pulse of this cycle for growth and stability in our lives.

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“Ground yourself, strip yourself down, To blind loving silence. Stay there, until you see You are gazing at the Light With its own ageless eyes.” - Rūmī رومی 

Mercury Retrograde in Jyeṣṭhā: The Elder Star

MERCURY RETROGRADE IN JYEṢṬHĀ

Artwork: Painting; gouache on watermarked paper. Indra, cheif of the gods and the gauardian of the east, on his elephant Airavata, Trichinopoly. ca 1825 | Unknown 

Mercury comes to a standstill and retrogrades in the constellation of Jyeṣṭhā (ज्येष्ठा), the Elder Star, on November 25/26th. This constellation, situated at the pinnacle of material success, is symbolized by a protective amulet. Jyeṣṭhā awakens the power to conquer the subconscious, urging us to claim our seat and reflect on our commitments and relationship with responsibility.

Mercury embodies rajoguṇa (the mode of passion) and pṛthvī tattva (the earth element). Revered as the radiant son of the Moon (Chandra), Mercury is the bestower of discernment and the karaka (significator) of intellect, eloquent speech, the nervous system, communication, the student, skill, neutrality, and balance.

During this retrograde, Mercury will traverse the gaṇḍānta point (the karmic knot between water and fire) three times over the next month. There can be moments of feeling like you’re drowning or as if you’re experiencing a washing machine effect. This position holds immense power. Use this cycle with courage and wisdom, as the window for reflection, reassessment, renewal, and reimagination is brief yet potent.

This current lunation cycle has brought forth the need to preserve energy and purify that which has become stagnant or no longer contributes to growth. Since November 15th, we have been distilling the powerful teachings awakened during Saturn’s four-and-a-half-month retrograde. Now, we are invited to tend even more deeply to the inward path.

There’s a calling towards an ascension — to claim and become stationed in the seat of oneself. We’re being asked to tend to the renewal and protection of our nervous system and of our spinal region, a rejuvenation and energizing of our vital fluids in order to attain favor and align with the ineffable force that nourishes a seed to sprout and eventually blossom. We’re asking this intelligence, the one that decides fate, to protect us from distraction through the 9 gates (of the body) and to aid in the maintenance of our seat. Slow down. Step onto the inward path.

Jyeṣṭhā prospers through the right use of natural law and invites us to embrace spiritual practices, mindful movement (yoga, martial arts, tai chi, qi gong), occult knowledge, intuition, and prayer (mantra). These tools ground us and provide stability amidst change. Growth may feel uncomfortable, and emotions may run high. Observe the unfolding story with patience, neither resisting nor clinging to what is moving through.

Mercury begins its retrograde journey at the potent gaṇḍānta point, retraces its steps through Anurādhā, the Star of Success, and turns direct on December 15th. This retrograde invites us to unravel the threads of misalignment, allowing purification to ripple through the mind and heart. It is a call to peel back layers of distraction, over-commitment, or misdirection that cloud clarity. As Mercury traverses the karmic knots of gaṇḍānta, it beckons us to refine inner and outer dialogues, clearing pathways for deeper discernment.

What truths are ready to emerge as you revisit old commitments? What sacred boundaries must be reclaimed or fortified to nurture your highest aspirations? This is a moment to align intention with action, to clarify where your devotion lies, and to ensure your choices reflect the grounded responsibility of Jyeṣṭhā’s wisdom.

Be mindful of potential communication challenges, misunderstandings, and delays in creative projects. Revisit past decisions and reevaluate your relationship with responsibility with patience and care. Allow extra time while traveling, be thorough, and triple-check information to prevent errors or misinterpretations. Above all, be kind and gentle with yourself and others during this reflective period.

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ॐ नमो नारायणाय | Om Namo Nārāyanāya

“The desire to know your own soul will end all other desires.” - Rūmī رومی 

Kāla Bhairavā Jayantī

Kāla Bhairavā Jayantī

भैरवाष्टमी

On November 22nd, we celebrate Kāla Bhairavā Jayantī, marking the culmination of an eight-day festival dedicated to Kāla Bhairava, the fierce manifestation of Lord Śiva. Observed on the Aṣṭamī tithi (the eighth day) of the waning moon in the Vedic month of Kārttik (November/December), this auspicious occasion invites deep introspection and reverence for the divine.

Kāla Bhairavā embodies the complex relationship between time and existence. As the keeper of time, he maintains cosmic order and is believed to have control over the past, present, and future. The term 'kala' refers not only to time but also to the cyclical nature of reality, while 'Bhairavā' signifies a fiercely terrifying aspect. This duality highlights how time governs all aspects of life, including creation and destruction. His ugra form serves as a poignant reminder of life’s impermanence and inevitable passage and consumption of all things. Time is often viewed as a cosmic force that consumes everything in its path, which holds divine authority to 'digest' all forms of existence, including deities like Brahmā (the creator) at the end of an age. This relentless nature of time inevitably leads to transformation and renewal, symbolized by the rebirth of Brahmā with each cycle.

During Bhairavāṣṭamī, devotees uphold fasts and offer sincere prayers to Lord Bhairavā. This festival is particularly significant because it marks the day when Lord Śiva took on the form of Kāla Bhairavā. The legend states that Lord Brahmā’s arrogance led to his fifth head being chopped off by Bhairavā, symbolizing Bhairavā’s role in removing ego and promoting humility.

In Vedic mythology, Bhairavā is often depicted with a black dog who represents loyalty, protection, and dharma (righteousness). The dog serves as Bhairavā's vahana (vehicle), emphasizing unwavering devotion and safeguarding sacred bonds. According to legend, when Sage Vishwanath encountered Bhairavā, his loyal dog Bhadrak was sent to test his faith—a testament to loyalty’s enduring value in spiritual practice.

Worshiping Kāla Bhairava is believed to provide profound protection from negative energies, fostering courage and resilience in the face of life's challenges. His fierce appearance symbolizes a commitment to dismantling illusions and guiding individuals toward spiritual growth and self-transcendence. By honoring Kāla Bhairava during Bhairavāṣṭamī, we align ourselves with the transformative energies he embodies, reminding us to respect time, uphold justice, and live harmoniously with our highest values.

This celebration encourages introspection, humility, and gratitude, helping practitioners navigate life with a deeper sense of purpose and balance. An all-night ceremony is observed on Bhairavāṣṭamī, filled with prayers, worship, and tales of Bhairavā, Śiva, and Pārvatī. At midnight, an arati of Bhairavā is performed with conches, bells, and drums. 

After a morning bath, devotees—especially those who worship Śiva—offer libations and oblations to their ancestors. The worship extends to include Bhairavā’s vahana (animal vehicle), the dog, which symbolizes loyalty and protection. Devotees also honor dogs by offering them milk, sweets, curds, and other food as a gesture of reverence.

Ultimately, the celebration of Lord Bhairavā not only deepens our connection to the divine but also reinforces the values of loyalty and devotion that are essential for spiritual advancement. By embracing these teachings, we cultivate a compassionate awareness that enriches our lives and those around us.

ॐ भैरवाय नमः | Om Bhairavaya Namah

Full Moon in Kṛttikā: The Star of Fire

FULL MOON

Artwork: Kārttikeya and Telugu inscription | British Museum

11/16 5:29am Bali | 11/15 13:29 PST

Kārttik Pūrṇimā lands in the Vedic lunar mansion of Kṛttikā (कृत्तिका), the Star of Fire, also known as the star cluster Pleiades (Seven Sisters). With the New Moon in Svāti (Libra), we were invited to gather our focus and anchor into our inner stability. Now, with the Full Moon in Kṛttikā, we are invited to bear witness to our growth and step powerfully into a new aligned timeline.

Fifteen days after the grandeur of Dīpāvali, Dev Dīpāvali unfolds on Kārttik Pūrṇimā, a sacred occasion commemorating Lord Śiva’s triumph over the demon Tripurasura, a powerful symbol of the eternal victory of good over evil. In Varanasi, it is believed that the gods descend to bathe in the Ganges, and the ghats are illuminated with countless lamps, casting a divine glow over the sacred river.

This Full Moon ignites a time of initiation and renewal. Just as fire has the power to burn away the old and make space for the new, this lunar mansion invites us to shed our limitations and embrace the fiery essence within us.

Saturn’s retrograde period has illuminated lessons around what we truly value, and Kṛttikā awakens the precision necessary to pierce deeper into any remaining burdens we may still be carrying, and the power to burn them away.

Kṛttikā holds the power to purity, burning away the old self to bring about the new. This transformation takes place through Agni, the god of fire, who presides over this constellation. You are likely being confronted with pressure and discomfort in some area of your life, encouraging you to shift.

The same fire that burns can also be used to assimilate experience into wisdom and transmute food into usable energy. Just like the goat, the animal medicine for this Nakṣatra, who consumes without considering the consequences, and is later presented with all that has been taken in —you may soon find yourself faced with a situation that demands you to confront certain truths about what you've been 'taking in' — whether experiences, habits, or emotional baggage.

Purification isn’t always easy or comfortable, yet it is the inherent energy that provokes growth and change. We are unaware of our shadows until we begin to increase our light. As our inner light intensifies, our shadows begin to shift, loosen, and eventually dissolve. Though the process may feel unsettling, any symptoms or discomfort that arise are signs that purification has already occurred — much like dust stirred into the air after a surface has been cleaned.

Agni (fire) is that original creative spark, with its power to burn and scorch — it is always consuming. Similar to ghee placed in the havan kuṇḍ during a yajña (Vedic fire ritual) to fulfill desires, this Nakṣatra desires a fertile vessel for cultivating stability, prosperity, and the realization of material goals.

We cannot purify or sit in tapas (austerity) without fueling our inner fire. Agni, the transformative flame, cannot burn without nourishment—whether ghee or the offerings of our dedication. This yearning for growth is harmonized by the cool embrace of amṛta (divine nectar), the fullness of Soma — that receptive and magnetic force which nurtures Agni's intensity, balancing its scorching energy and guides the manifestation of our deepest creative desires.

The Star of Fire is associated with Lord Murugan (Kārttikeya), the God of War, who wields a spear and rides a peacock, symbolizing courage, strength, and transformation. This symbology serves as a reminder that growth often requires us to break through barriers and step out of our comfort zones. It urges us to embrace change, challenge our limiting beliefs, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. The spear symbolizes the cutting away of what no longer serves us, making space for new beginnings and expansion.

What would it take for you to sit with the vulnerability you’ve been shying away from and take a deeper look into yourself? Truth will not only shine light on the process, it will also burn away and sever ties with that which is not contributing to your progress.

I invite you to pause beneath the Full Moon to reflect — to meditate and sit as the witness to observe what comes forward. There is a powerful timeline shift as the door of Saturn's retrograde, which was wide open, now closes and a new beginning awakens.

The past couple of weeks have brought many crystal-clear realizations and code upgrades to the surface. For many, this experience was accompanied by a strong sense of overwhelm, the urge to distract oneself from the pressure, or even the attempt to close out the current timeline with urgency.

Utilize this threshold wisely, taking time to bear witness to what is moving through and unfolding within you. Take note of all that has been presenting itself, all that you’ve been learning over the past weeks and months. Over the next week, what feels present today will begin to stabilize, integrate, and fade into the background.

The essence of practice is to show up with presence, to fully engage with what is unfolding, and to stabilize the experience of the self through awareness. Through consistent effort, we nurture our inner fire, guiding us toward greater self-realization.

All my Relations

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God speaks to each of us as he makes us,
then walks with us silently out of the night.

These are the words we dimly hear:

You, sent out beyond your recall,
go to the limits of your longing.
Embody me.

Flare up like a flame
and make big shadows I can move in.

Let everything happen to you: beauty and terror.
Just keep going. No feeling is final.
Don’t let yourself lose me.

Nearby is the country they call life.
You will know it by its seriousness.

Give me your hand.

- Rainer Maria Rilke 

Saturn Stations Direct in Śatabhiṣā: The Veiling Star

Saturn Stations Direct in Śatabhiṣā

Artwork: Pinterest | Lord Varuṇa

November 15th

Saturn has slowed and completes his four-and-a-half-month retrograde cycle today in the constellation of Śatabhiṣā (शतभिषा), the Veiling star.

As Saturn, the guardian of time and bestower of longevity, returns to direct motion, it serves as a cosmic reset button, granting us the opportunity to make a fresh start in various aspects of our lives. Momentum begins to build as we pivot from a period of internal review to one of implementing the lessons learned.

This lunar mansion, home to a hundred stars, is ruled by Varuṇa, the god of the night sky and the cosmic and terrestrial waters. Varuṇa’s duty is to ensure that all things on earth align with cosmic order, while also presenting opportunities for redemption and mystical experiences.

Much like the animal associated with Śatabhiṣā, the horse — civilization’s first animal medicine — which embodies both mystical and physical powers, it carries burdens across great distances with ease. Often, the trials and tribulations we experience under the star of the divine healer are brought forth to rectify our path, to learn from confusion, and ultimately to become a vehicle for self-realization.

We’ve been in a holding pattern of sorts these past months. Many have passed through, or are still undergoing, powerful initiations. Where you once encountered roadblocks, you may now begin to feel the call to stride forward toward your goals.

Utilize this shift wisely. We stand at a pivotal crossroads where resolutions become clearer, allowing you either to resolve current issues or forge a new path that offers deeper alignment. Be ready to adapt if circumstances change dramatically — this may involve letting go of old goals to embrace new opportunities.

If you feel the need to rush, rush like a royal elephant — with gradual and steady pace. This energy does not support hastening timelines. Take another couple of weeks to assess and track the structures and commitments you’ve set for yourself. Be willing 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 or may not still be serving your growth.

We’re revisiting dynamics presented to us in the Spring — this time, there is an opportunity for the energy to land. Face your karmic responsibilities. Perhaps this involves setting clearer boundaries and even solidifying commitments made during the retrograde phase. Favor and cultivate like-minded, genuine connections — those who support your higher self, both personally and professionally.

Saturn will remain in Śatabhiṣā through December 27th before shifting to the dynamic constellation of Pūrva Bhādrapadā, where we will revisit energies from early April to early October.

ॐ श्री शनैश्चराय नमः

“Try not to resist the changes that come your way. Instead let life live through you. And do not worry that your life is turning upside down. How do you know that the side you are used to is better than the one to come?” - Rūmī رومی

Dev Utthāni Ekādaśī

PRABODHINĪ EKĀDAŚī

प्रबोधिनी एकादशी

Artwork: Pinterest

Bali: 11/11 21:17 – 11/12 18:35 | USA PST: 11/11 5:17 – 11/12 2:35

On the Ekādaśī (11th lunar day) of the waxing fortnight in the month of Kārttik (October/November), Dev Utthāni Ekādaśī is observed. This Ekādaśī holds immense spiritual significance, as it marks the conclusion of Cāturmāsya, a four-month sacred period of tapas (austerity) and introspection.

Prabodhinī Ekādaśī, specifically, is the twenty-fourth of the twenty-six Ekādaśīs mentioned in the Garga-saṃhitā (4.8.9), highlighting its special place within the cycle of lunar days. Its importance is further emphasized by the fact that it marks the awakening of Lord Viṣṇu from His yogic sleep, a time when the cosmic energies shift and encourage spiritual renewal.

The Ekādaśī tithi (lunar phase) is said to be dear to Lord Viṣṇu, the sustaining energy of the universe. It is believed that He enters a state of yogic sleep on Śayanī Ekādaśī (June/July) and awakens on Prabodhinī Ekādaśī. This awakening symbolizes not only Viṣṇu’s return to active duty but also the restoration of divine balance. It serves as an invitation for individuals to awaken to their own spiritual awareness and renew their commitment to dharma.

Ekādaśī (happening twice a month) is a pivotal day in Vedic astrology, occurring on the eleventh lunar day, when the moon's gravitational pull influences our inner tides. It is said that the atmospheric pressure is at its lowest on Ekādaśī days. This tithi enhances our connection to the divine, making it an ideal time for fasting, purification, and spiritual practices.

Observing a fast (abstaining from grains and beans) and turning one's attention inward on this sacred Ekādaśī is believed to mitigate pāpa karma (negative actions, such as causing suffering or unhappiness to others) accumulated from previous lives, thereby accelerating spiritual growth and fostering a deeper connection to the divine.

The fast can vary in degrees: from complete abstinence of water, to drinking only water, to taking one meal at lunch (without grains or beans), or having a meal only at supper time. Personally, I will take one meal consisting of fruit. Chanting or listening to the Viṣṇu Sahasranāma is another powerful practice that helps attune oneself to the energies of the day. Many devotees also choose to stay awake all night and steep themselves in prayer and devotion.

Today, Tulasī Vivāha is also celebrated, marking the sacred marriage of the Tulasī plant and Lord Viṣṇu (in His form as Śrī Kṛṣṇa). Tulasī, revered as an incarnation of the goddess Lakṣmī, embodies purity, devotion, and healing properties, earning her the title of the “queen of herbs.” This marriage is not merely a ritual; it symbolizes the profound interconnection between nature and divinity, with Tulasī serving as a bridge between the earthly and spiritual realms. It also heralds the beginning of the auspicious wedding season according to Sanātana Dharma, inviting blessings of prosperity and harmony into our lives.

ॐ नमो नारायणाय

Aum Namo Nārāyanāya

New Moon in Svāti: The Star of Self Actualization

NEW MOON अमावस्या

Artwork: Pinterest

The new moon (amāvásyā) today aligns both the sun and moon in the Vedic lunar mansion of Svāti स्वाति (in the heart of Libra), the Star of Self actualization and the seat of vāyu.

Svāti holds the energy or 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 loosing and know that big shifts take time. 

Saturn, renowned for his measured approach and capacity for restraint, finds exaltation in the constellation of Svāti. When our thoughts and focus disperse, our energy becomes scattered and immunity diminishes — be actually become quite vulnerable. When gathered, we're unstoppable. Saturn, ruler of the pañcavāyus (five winds), encourages us to exercise control over our breath, thereby harnessing our focus and cultivating a strong foundation.

According to Maharishi Vālmīki, Hanūmān Jayantī is celebrated in Northern India on the caturdaśī (14th lunar day) in the month of Kārttik (Oct/Nov), commemorating Sītā Mātā's bestowal of immortality upon Lord Hanūmān. This story resonates with Svāti's essence, illustrating the power of unwavering devotion and focused purpose. Hanūmān's dedication to serving Lord Rāma exemplifies the asterism's call for full attention and commitment, arising through devotional intent.

With Mars in Puṣyā (Cancer), emotions may surge with intensity, churning the waters of our innermost needs and desires. True desire reveals itself when our commitment persists beyond fleeting moments, and when obstacles arise, a deeper force compels us to remain devoted to a person, purpose, or experience.

This cycle may invigorate the quest for clarity regarding your direction and purpose, calling for unwavering commitment. As you contemplate your path, consider what sacrifices you're willing to make in service of your higher purpose. True dedication often requires letting go of what no longer serves your evolving vision while remaining adaptable to new circumstances and insights.

To navigate this cycle, anchor yourself in patience, allowing inner stability to take root before action. The greatest strength now lies in mindful restraint, compassionate self-discipline, and the cultivation of dhāraṇā (focused concentration).

Consider grounding, breath-centered yoga practices, breathwork, prāṇāyāma, and meditation to harness your focus. As you attune to the current energies, reflect on this pivotal moment: where will you consciously choose to direct your commitment? What are you willing to sacrifice to honor this commitment? Take this opportunity to discern what truly warrants your unwavering dedication, recognizing that meaningful growth often requires releasing the old to embrace the new. 

“I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.” - Bruce Lee

VEDIC ASTROLOGY CONFERENCE

I’m thrilled to be presenting at the Parashara Conference next month on Puruṣārthas & Samudra Manthan. Join me as we explore the rich narratives of Vedic Science and Jyotiṣa Śāstra, illuminating the deeper essence of Dhárma, Artha, Kāma, and Moksha and their unique pulse within each of us.

Together, we will cultivate a deeper understanding of how to awaken our creative intelligence and experience Jyotiṣa as a liberating force.

Date: Friday, November 22nd 7 pm est | Format: Online

Enjoy 10.8% off with code: Tulsi

Discover more about this transformative event here: https://www.parasharaconference.com/

Festival of Lights: Dīpāvali

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: DĪPĀVALI दीपावलि  

Celebrated on the Amāvásyā tithi (new moon) in the Vedic lunar month of Kārttik (October/November), today marks the revered festival of Dīpāvali, the most significant day of the five-day celebration. This festival began with Dhanteras (festival devoted to Dhanvantari - father of Āyurveda) and culminates with the new moon, which is considered the new year in Northern India.

On this occasion, we celebrate the victory of light over darkness. We honor Gaṇeśa, the remover of obstacles, and invoke goddess Mahālakṣmī for her blessings of prosperity. We also commemorate Lord Rāma's triumphant return to Ayodhya after his victory over Rāvana. This year, Dīpāvali coincides with Kālī Caudaś (Kālī pūja), where the dark goddess is revered as an awakening and purifying force.

Dīpāvali embodies themes of cleansing, renewal, and prosperity. Families clean their homes, don new attire, set intentions for the year ahead, and illuminate their spaces with diyas—symbols of hope and enlightenment—to welcome Mahālakṣmī, the eight-fold embodiment of abundance. It is said that her energy resides in harmonious spaces free from conflict. The exchange of gifts and sweets further enhances the joy and connection shared during this time.

As we gather in joy and reflection, let us embrace the energies of renewal and prosperity that accompany this festival. Wishing everyone a joyful and prosperous Dīpāvali!

With love all ways 

शुभ दीपावली | ॐ श्रीं महा लक्ष्म्यै नमः

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

Vijayadaśamī: Victory Day

Vijayadaśamī विजयादशमी

Artwork: Goddess Durgā Slaying Mahiṣāsura, ca 1870. Bengal, India.

The Inner Victory

With the culmination of Navarātri, nine nights dedicated to honoring the divine feminine, today marks the sacred festival more commonly known as Daśaharā दशहरा, which represents the victory of good over evil. Oberserved on daśamī (the tenth day) of Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) in the month of Aśvin (September/October), vijaya (विजय) in Sanskrit means victory and daśamī (दशमी), the tenth day. 

Multifaceted Significance

In various regions of India, this festival commemorates the triumph of Goddess Durgā over Mahiṣāsura, the buffalo demon, symbolizing the restoration and protection of dhárma (cosmic order and righteousness). Concurrently, in other parts of the country, Vijayadaśamī marks the culmination of Rāmalīlā, celebrating Rāma's victory over Rāvaṇa as chronicled in the ancient epic, the Rāmāyaṇa. Additionally, the day resonates with the Mahābhārata tradition, marking when Arjuna retrieved his divine weapons from the Śamī tree, presaging the Pāṇḍavas' eventual triumph. These intertwining narratives collectively emphasize the festival's core essence: the victory of light over darkness and the restoration of cosmic order.

The Inner Battle: Transcending the Guṇas 

In the Devīmāhātmyam Mahiṣāsura represents the accumulated tamas (darkness, heaviness, inertia, illusion, ignorance) in our mind and body, which obstructs our spiritual progress. Śakti is the one who is invoked to slay this tamas. By walking this path of inner transformation we begin to awaken, churn and refine our guṇas (subtle qualities), which leads to the purification of the channels in our body — this is the aim of the tapas engaged in during these nine nights of Mā Durgā. This churning culminates with Cāmuṇḍā’s (awakening energy) triumph over Mahiṣāsura (our lower tendencies) and the restablishment of dhárma (life supporting action).

The real victory is the triumph of an inner battle —  ultimately transcending the veils of tamas that keep us in darkness to who we really are, the veils of Rajas (desire, ambition, momentum) that keep us locked into this dream and bound by the endless cycle of desire, action and fulfillment and ultimately sattva (light, purity, our true nature) guṇa, which still holds an even more sublte desire that too can be transcended — identifying with the ego (identification with being the doer) and being attached (to the fruits of our actions) — bound within the paris of opposites — good and bad, adversion and attraction, happiness and sadness. 

The Promise of Śakti

The Devīmāhātmyam ends with Śakti offering her promise to humanity to appear whenever she is called upon, to destroy evil and restablish harmony. As we continue to tend to śakti, and begin to establish a firm foundation in Her, we awaken our power to focus, to cultivate our dhāraṇā, and draw all our energies inside — ultimately transcended the guṇas (the fabric of this material world). This continued focus is the active meditation requesting our attention — calling us to become completely absorbed in Her. 

Artwork: Pinterest

Auspicous New Beginnings

In the Vedic tradition, Vijayadaśamī stands as one of the most auspicious days in the lunisolar calendar. Revered as one of the most favorable muhūrtas (auspicious time periods) for new beginnings, alongside Gudhi Pāḍavā (the lunisolar New Year), Akṣaya Tṛtīyā (the day of lasting achievements), and Divālī (the festival of lights and New Year), this day carries a unique spiritual potency. Its significance transcends individual astrological charts, making it universally propitious for initiating new ventures, especially in learning and creative pursuits. This auspiciousness aligns perfectly with the day's themes of victory and transcendence, providing a foundation for personal and spiritual growth.

The Path of Transformation

Just as Vijayadaśamī symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness in the cosmic realm, our personal journey calls us to confront and overcome our inner obstacles. One could say that the root of all evil is to separate - from source, oneself, and all our relations. I recall those moments where the invitation comes sweeping in and I find myself standing at the edge of that threshold.

To die in each moment to the false stories, beliefs and perceptions I’ve created or accepted about myself and this waking dream. To illumine the places untouched and hidden from view. That process which evokes one’s former limited identity to transform -  returning incoherency to coherency. 

Harmonizing mind, body and emotions through that courageous experience of grounding into something higher. A crucifixion and resurrection which awakens that Holy lamp within the center of the heart. 

I believe this is perhaps what the Sufis and many other traditions are speaking of — that victory of good over evil — to die before you die. That inner directed shift and right of passage that takes you over the threshold of irreversible change.

With that, I ask you my beloved brothers and sisters - when will you exchange your small life of separation, so that you can fulfill your greater part?

You may never feel ready to step completely into the Unknown and what awaits you is immeasurable love. The choice is yours. Love all ways

All my Relations

✨🤍✨

ॐ दुं दुर्गायै नमः | जय श्री रा

(Om Dum Durgayai Namah | Jai Shri Ram - Salutations to Goddess Durga | Victory to Lord Rama)

Jupiter Retrogrades in Mṛgaśirā: The Searching Star

Jupiter Retrogrades in Mṛgaśirā

Tōḍi Rāgiṇi: Kangra, Punjab Hills, mid 19th century

Oct 09, 2024 - Feb 04, 2025

We’re being churned by the many planetary shifts happening this month, including moving through the final eclipse season of the year, the awakening energies of Navarātri, and now, from October 9th to February 4th, Jupiter commences its annual retrograde motion (vakrī) in the constellation of Mṛgaśirā मृगशिरा (Taurus), the Searching Star — drawing us into an introspective search for truth and wisdom.

Jupiter, the planet of expansion, knowledge, sound, speech, and the teacher (Guru), now redirects its expansive energy inward, amplifying the nuanced themes of Mṛgaśirā—curiosity, the search for elusive wisdom, and the longing for deeper truths. Retrograde planets are traditionally said to increase in power, and Jupiter’s retrograde invites a deeper, more introspective search for clarity and understanding.

As the Jiva Karaka (significator of life) and the embodiment of discernment, Jupiter's retrograde calls us to refine our focus and reconsider what we are truly seeking. This is a time to align ourselves with enduring wisdom, restoring balance to areas of life where growth has felt superficial or scattered.

Mṛgaśirā, symbolized by soma (divine nectar), is magnetic and receptive, drawing life to itself and awakening a thirst for deeper understanding. Soma, associated with Chandra (the Moon), embodies the lunar principle of water, nourishing our spiritual evolution.

We are asked to refine our inner compass, grounding curiosity in the tangible and reconciling our desire for security with our quest for deeper meaning. This retrograde invites us to release distractions and realign with clarity. It’s a time to integrate the insights we’ve gathered and discern which teachings resonate with the soul.

Perhaps we’re being called to track back into our own creative intelligence—beyond thought and understanding, beyond knowledge gained from others and even wisdom distilled through the lens of the mind and intellect—an invitation to rest your awareness in the vast spaciousness of your own being.

Jupiter has been in Mṛgaśirā since mid-August—notice what energies are resurfacing as we reflect on the paths we’ve been exploring. We are invited to reassess the wisdom we've been pursuing and to refine our search for authentic understanding. On November 28th, Jupiter steps back into the constellation of Rohiṇī, shifting focus toward nurturing what has taken root, guiding us from inquiry to manifestation.

This is a time to slow down, recalibrate our efforts, and reflect on the resources we have cultivated—both within and around us. Are we nurturing the right seeds, or has our search become restless? Jupiter’s retrograde in Mṛgaśirā presents an opportunity to refine our focus, ensuring that our wisdom manifests in enduring ways aligned with the natural rhythms of life.

All My Relations

“Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves, like locked rooms and like books that are now written in a very foreign tongue. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer.” 

~ Rilke

Saturn Retrograde in Śatabhiṣā: The Veiling Star

Saturn Retrograde in Śatabhiṣā

Image: Kata Bhushundi Recounts the Story of Rama’s Maya — Illustrade folio from the Ramcharitmanas manuscript, Unknown, 1814, Opaque watercolor, ink and gold on paper, PTG.02335

October 3rd - November 15th

On October 3rd, Saturn retrograde stepped back into the Vedic Lunar Mansion of Śatabhiṣā शतभिषा (Aquarius)—the Veiling Star—where it will remain until December 27th. This period offers a second opportunity to revisit unresolved matters from early March and April with a fresh perspective, inviting newfound clarity and refined expertise.

Śatabhiṣā, a constellation of a hundred stars, is ruled by Varuṇa, the god of the night sky and the cosmic and terrestrial waters. Varuṇa’s role is to ensure that all things align with cosmic order, awakening within us the desire to pierce the veil of darkness and enter the void.

Much like its animal symbol, the horse—civilization’s first sacred medicine—this nakṣatra embodies both mystical and physical powers, allowing it to bear heavy burdens over great distances. Śatabhiṣā holds the śakti or awakening energy to heal, support, and redeem, as the trials and tribulations experienced under the star of the divine healer arise to rectify our path. What once felt confusing can become a vehicle for profound self-realization and even redemption.

We are being churned now, invited to go deeper and pierce the veil. What is being revealed to you? Some knots may be untangling, while other moments call us to step up and take responsibility. Issues that surfaced in early March and April may circle back, asking for renewed focus and thoughtful strategy. While challenges may arise, it is through persistence that true progress is forged.

Since Saturn went retrograde on June 26th, we have been urged to reassess our long-term goals, particularly in the areas of life connected to the house Aquarius occupies in your birth chart. This period has asked us to refine our social networks and fostering genuine connections that support our higher self.

Artwork: Pinterest - Saturn

Recommit to spiritual practices and life-affirming routines. Surround yourself with those who uplift and encourage your authentic growth. At the same time, this retrograde may reveal the necessity of releasing toxic connections or habits that no longer serve your well-being.

When Saturn stations direct on November 15th, expect a breath of fresh air as clarity dawns and energies begin to land. There is a promise that issues will either find a sense of resolution or a higher path forward will present itself.

All My Relations

ॐ श्री शनैश्चराय नमः

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 

Śarad Navarātri: 9 Days of Mother Divine

Śarad Navarātri शरद् नवरात्रि // October 3-12th

Artwork: Durgā on Her Vāhana Kota, Rajasthan, North-Western India, ca. 1860

Śarad Navarātri commences on the tithi after the new moon, from Pratipadā tithi (1st lunar day) to the Navamī tithi (9th) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) in the month of Aśvina (September/October). This nine day festival marks the end of monsoon season, the transition into autumn, and is the most celebrated of the four yearly Navarātris.

The word Navarātri means "nine nights" in Sanskrit, nava meaning "nine" and rātri meaning "nights." During these nine nights and ten days of devotion, nine different forms of goddess Durgā (navadurgā), also known as Śakti are worshiped. The tenth day is commonly referred to as Vijayā-Daśamī or Dussehra, celebrating the victory of good over evil.

Today also marks the new moon of our ancestors Mahālaya Amāvásyā and the culmination of eclipse season. The veil is thin and we find ourselves standing at the threshold of irreversible change. The solar eclipse was in the constellation of Hasta (Virgo), who holds the power to manifest what we desire and place it in the palm of your hand— realign with your higher mind and your intuition.

The rose colored glasses have come off and you may be finding new parts of yourself and your life being revealed to you now. A balancing act between self and other. Be willing to lean all the way in and release entertaining what’s no longer for you, so you can step powerfully into this new timeline with intentional action.

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. 

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 embodied meant 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? 

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

New Moon Solar Eclipse in Hasta: The Star of the hand

NEW MOON SOLAR ECLIPSE सूर्य ग्रहण

Artwork: Devi Gayatri. Kangra circa 1880

October 2nd 11:50 am PDT | 20:50 pm Spain

Eclipse season culminates with the new moon (amāvásyā), solar eclipse on Wednesday October 2nd in the Vedic Lunar mansion of Hasta हस्त (virgo), known as the Star of the Hand.

Track what has been trying to make itself known to you in the past few weeks. This dynamic cycle can be very mental and potent for accelerated spiritual growth — use discernment to align with higher thinking and listen to your intuition. Channel your creativity, especially in tasks requiring skill and dexterity — get grounded.

This constellation is ruled by Savitṛ, the life-giving aspect of the Sun and the god of creativity. Just like this asterism’s animal totem, the female buffalo, who embodies the energies of abundance and prayer, Hasta awakens the power to gain what you’re seeking and place it in the palm of your hand. While Virgo is known for its precision and order, Hasta holds a mystical quality—infusing practicality with the subtle power to manifest.

This eclipse portal offers a profound opportunity to step into a new timeline. The soil is fertile to plant the seeds of your desires — and awakens a seeking for the shade of merit (puṇya) responsible for bestowing those blessings in material form. The question is, how do we cultivate the capacity to acquire this “good fortune” necessary for such manifestation? 

With four grahas stationed in Hasta during this eclipse, the coming six month cycle will be defined by your capacity to preserve and direct your energy with intentional focus (dhāraṇā). This requires a mastery over the subtle vāyus (airs), grounding them in the central channel to achieve one-pointed focus.

Artowork: Pinterst

In the symbolism of Hasta, the hand can either grasp and cling, in attempt to seek control, or remain open and outstretched, embodying creativity and refined craftsmanship in flow and being of service. As a conduit for both creation and healing, the hands transform thought into form, mastering the physical while staying connected to the spiritual.

As you hold the vision of that which you would like to manifest into fruition, realign with your higher thinking — seek out the middle point, neither clinging nor resisting. Get clear on who you are and where you want to go. The transformation of material into beauty holds great significance here.

In the midst of shifting narratives and heightened emotions, inward focus and grounding are vital. Align your internal rhythms with nature and channel this heightened energy into practical, embodied actions. Engage in mindful activities that balance mental focus with physical engagement, such as crafting, gardening, or breathwork like prāṇāyāma, to stabilize your vāyus and bring them into harmony.

Keep life simple during the eclipse hours (October 2nd 8:43 am - 14:46 pm PDT | 2nd 17:43-23:46 pm Spain). The ancients regarded this time as sacred, a moment to attune to one's inner divinity. Fasting, prāṇāyāma, meditation, japa (mantra repetition), and saltwater baths are recommended to clear your channels and optimize this shift. Postpone major decisions and external engagements, turning inward to recalibrate your path.

Take the time to reflect deeply on what is being revealed and what needs untangling in your life, as this doorway won't remain open for much longer. Expect the unexpected, and trust that this cycle carries the initiation needed to plant seeds of positive resolution, birthing you into your next journey in time.

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Know that i’m here to support you. If you’d like to go deeper into what this means for you personally and talk about you, please visit here to book a private Vedic Astrology Consultation.

Pitṛ Pakṣa: Fortnight of the Ancestors

PRITṚU PAKSHẠ

पितृ पक्ष

Artwork: Pinterst

September 17/18 - October 2

Falling during Kṛṣṇa paksha (the second fortnight) of the month of Bhadrapadā (September), beginning on Prātipada (the first day of the fortnight) and culminating with the New Moon (Mahālaya Amāvásyā) in October, Pitṛ Pakṣa is a sacred sixteen-day period dedicated to honoring our ancestors.

This is a profound 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, words, and deeds, both conscious and unconscious.

Intergenerational healing calls to us now. For some, this may feel like a baptism by fire, inviting a deeper inquiry into ancestral wounds, patterns, and the genetic coding that continues to influence us. We are asked to take responsibility for the cycles that have persisted through our lineage, and to break those patterns that no longer serve us or our descendants.

It is believed that when we honor, nourish, and remember our ancestors during this sacred window, they return to bless us. This is a time to settle ancestral debts and unresolved karmas, clearing the way for longevity, abundance, wisdom, success, and protection.

Artwork: Pinterest

Over the next two weeks, nourish your ancestors both figuratively and literally, as the veil between realms is thin and their blessings are near. The New Moon (Amāvásyā) on October 2nd is the most potent day for ancestral reverence. Spend time attuning your inward flow of awareness towards the legacy you’ve inherited from those who have walked before you.

Traditionally, this period is reserved for deep spiritual practice and honoring our ancestors, rather than initiating new ventures. It is a time for quiet reflection, gratitude, and seeking guidance from those who have come before us. As Ketu, the south node, is linked to our ancestral lineages in Vedic astrology, invoking the blessings of Gaṇeśa can serve as a powerful remedy during this sacred fortnight. Gaṇeśa, the remover of obstacles, harmonizes Ketu’s influence, guiding us through karmic transitions with grace. Some may feel called to create an ancestral altar or offer Tarpana (the ritual feeding of ancestors), particularly on Mahālaya Amāvásyā. During this period, cultivate inner peace and respect, avoiding conflict or anger, as you honor your lineage and connect with the deeper wisdom of your roots.

According to legend, Karṇa, a great hero of the Mahābhārata, ascended to the heavens after his death, only to be offered gold instead of food. When he asked why, he was told that during his life, he had only given wealth to others but never fed his ancestors. To make amends, Karṇa returned to earth for a sixteen-day period to offer Tarpan (ritual offerings) to his ancestors, thus ensuring their nourishment and blessings.

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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.

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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