Oh! Oh! The Vedic New Year Starts with a Total Solar Eclipse

By Astro-Palmist Guylaine Vallée

 

Eclipses are very potent symbols of world events and astrologers have always placed great meaning upon them. A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, causing the Moon to cast a shadow on Earth. A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth is between the Sun and the Moon, causing Earth to cast a shadow on the Moon. Lunar eclipses occur when a Full Moon happens near a lunar node. Solar eclipses occur when a New Moon happens near a node. In Vedic astrology, the nodes of the Moon are referred to as the shadow planets, Rahu and Ketu.

On April 8th, a total solar eclipse will be visible along a narrow path stretching 10,000 miles across North America, from Mexico’s Pacific coast to Newfoundland, including parts of Ontario and Quebec. It just so happens that the eclipse coincides with the Vedic New Year, which occurs every year in March or April when the Sun and Moon are in Pisces. The New Year’s chart shows the trend for the whole year. What makes this year’s chart especially potent is that Rahu is joining the Moon and Sun in the sign of Pisces. This signals we are in for a year of intensity that will have a dramatic impact on all of us. Why? Because according to Hindu legend, it is during an eclipse that the shadowy demon Rahu-Ketu takes revenge on the luminaries of Sun and Moon by consuming their light. When this happens, the pure and creative energy of the luminaries becomes dark.

In Vedic philosophy, all auspicious events begin and end by being blessed with light—either the light of a full Moon or the daytime Sun. Consequently, the darkness of eclipses are considered inauspicious times to start or end anything important in our life. So, while millions are flocking to witness this year’s eclipse, according to Eastern philosophy, eclipses should be avoided altogether, making them a great time to stay inside, meditate and be reflective. It is especially effective for introspection and connecting with the Spirit within you.

Goddess Durga

Fortunately, the day after the eclipse (April 9th) marks the beginning of Navaratri, the nine-day festival celebrating the victory of good over evil. Hindu devotees across the world believe that it is during these nine days that Goddess Durga materialized on Earth from her heavenly abode to fight the demon King, Mahishasur. These nine days are considered to be particularly auspicious for meditation to fortify ourselves against any negativity.

In Christian tradition, we are currently in the season of Eastertide, the 50 days after Christ’s resurrection during which Jesus appeared for 40 days throughout the Holy Land, teaching his followers and instructing his disciples to take his teachings of love and forgiveness to the four corners of the Earth.

Pentecost

On the 40th day, Jesus ascended to Heaven telling his disciples He was not abandoning them and that He would send the Holy Spirit to comfort and empower them ten days later, a day now recognized as Pentecost. This year, Ascension day is celebrated on May 9th and Pentacost on May 19th. Like Navaratri, Eastertide is a very good time to meditate. In other words, this is a great time to take advantage of the positive Cosmic energy surrounding us.

If you decide to watch the eclipse, make sure you do so safely as it can cause serious eye damage. Find out how to protect yourself by visiting American Astronomical Society’s resource page.

 

Want to find out what the Vedic New Year’s chart holds in store for you? Book a consultation with one of our astro-palmists.

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by Vedic astro-palmist Guylaine Vallée

As you are probably aware, the 12 signs of the zodiac form a 360-degree wheel that encircles our planet. Each sign represents 30 degrees of that circle and each planet in the astrological chart travels through all 12 signs at its own pace.

The planet Uranus has been travelling through Aries since 2016 and has now reached the 29th degree, which is the very edge of a sign. The 29th degree is referred to as “Sandhi”, which means “connecting place”, as it marks the transition zone between two different signs and the houses they occupy.

Sandhi is where these different and sometimes contrasting cosmic energies converge. Hence, it can be a challenging transit as it forces us to adapt to and work with unique energies that are not necessarily in harmony with each other. Indeed, during a Sandhi transit, we are straddling two signs simultaneously, which can give us a disquieting sense of being “neither here nor there” that can leave us feeling on edge. This can make us apprehensive; we are uncertain of what’s in store for us and what the future holds. Hence, it is important to manage the dual energies of Sandhi carefully.

Currently, in our personal lives and in the world at large, we are experiencing the Sandhi effect of Uranus. It has taken 7 years for Uranus to travel through Aries, which is ruled by the warrior planet Mars. Now, as Uranus prepares to leave Aries and take up residence in Taurus for 7 years, we are on the threshold of rebuilding our lives along new lines and from a new perspective.

Uranus is the higher octave of Mercury, the planet of communication. It denotes inventive genius and opens new frontiers in thought and healing. However, the energy of Uranus can be sudden, erratic and unpredictable. When Uranus is in its Sandhi degree, that energy can bring earth-shaking changes that cause uncertainty and insecurity. Therefore, it is more important than ever for everyone to remain calm, patient and understanding in order for us to get the most from Uranus and use the energy to heal ourselves and to heal our world.

Until May 8th, 2024, Uranus will stay in the sign of Aries, as it moves back and forth from its Sandhi degree. In May, it moves into the neighboring sign of Taurus, in the constellation of Algol, which we will talk about at a later date.

By Vedic Astro-Palmist Guylaine Vallée

 

Few astronomical phenomena are as impressive as an eclipse. Eclipses can be very potent symbols of world events and astrologers have always placed great meaning upon them.

An annular solar eclipse will occur Saturday, October 14th, beginning at 11:03 am and ending at 4:55 pm EDT.

An annular solar eclipse happens when the Moon covers the center of the Sun, leaving the visible outer edges to form a “ring of fire”, or annulus, around the Moon. Both the sun and moon will be together in the same sign of Virgo in the intense nakshatra Chitra ruled by Mars, suggesting the importance of remaining Zen, especially around this time.

While many Western astronomers are excited at the chance to witnesses a solar eclipse, Vedic astrologers have a more cautious approach. In Vedic astrology eclipses are regarded as powerful (often tumultuous or even earth-shattering) portents of both personal and world events. The illuminating light of the Sun is obscured by the passage of the Moon, indicating on a psychological level the potential of casting a shadow across our awareness. Consequently, most Vedic astrologers advise against beginning any major project, signing contracts, entering or ending a romance, or making any other significant life decisions in the days leading up to, during, and following an eclipse, be it lunar or solar—the energy is just too unpredictable and potentially unstable!

According to Vedic astrology, it is not recommended to look at the Sun during an eclipse, suggesting instead the best course of action is to look inward, centering and calming our energy through meditation and peaceful self-reflection. As this is eclipse season, in two weeks’ time, on October 28th, there will be a partial lunar eclipse, which we will tell you more about at that time.

by Vedic astro-palmist Guylaine Vallée

 

It’s been a long cold winter, but the Cosmos has a springtime conjunction lined up that is sure to warm your heart, put a twinkle in your eye and maybe even give you a new lease on life! Venus and Rahu will be joined together in Aries between March 18th and 22nd. No combination of planets guarantees fame and fortune like a positive Venus-Rahu conjunction can.

The Venus-Rahu conjunction has always been considered a sign of tremendous wealth, and not just the private yacht and country club kind of wealth.

Howard Hughes, Steve Jobs and Oprah Winfrey are three very different people with three striking things in common—they all became wildly rich and successful, all three were generous philanthropists and they were all born with Venus-Rahu conjunct in their natal charts. But it wasn’t fate that propelled them to wealth or drew wealth to them—their millions were earned, and their names will be remembered, because they made the most of the attributes, talents and inclinations bestowed upon them by a fortunate Venus-Rahu conjunction.

So just what are these attributes, talents and inclinations?

To begin with, Venus desires comfort, pleasure and beauty, and possesses a passionate desire to reach the top. Rahu, the planet of amplification, provides Venus the insightfulness to plan stratagems to achieve those goals and the courage to carry them out. Secondly, Venus—in its ideal form—represents unconditional love and empathy—so it is predisposed to share its wealth with those in need. Rahu motivates Venus to use its bounty and wisdom liberally and effectively for the betterment of humankind. This is why during the Venus-Rahu transit all of us can reach new levels of success and get a lot accomplished.

The astuteness and drive of Hughes, Jobs and Winfrey gave them fabulous wealth and luxurious lifestyles, but also allowed them to create charitable organizations that have helped and inspired millions.

So, let’s take full advantage of the current Venus-Rahu energy between March 18th and 22nd by striving to fulfill impossible dreams and achieving enormous success that we can share with everyone.

Want to learn more about Venus—the Planet of Love—and how to harness its magnificent energy? Sign up for our brand-new webinar series: The Venus Program: Embracing the Love, Beauty and Sweetness of Life, which starts on March 30 with your host, Vedic palmist Guylaine Vallée.

 

by astro-palmist Guylaine Vallée

 

Venus in Pisces: February 14th to March 10th

 

It may be the dead of winter, but a planetary transit will soon be warming our hearts!

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Venus—the planet of love, harmony, relationships, creativity and beauty—entered the mystical water sign of Pisces on February 14th. This is a welcome transit as Venus in Pisces is considered most auspicious and may bring more peace until March 10th.

Venus is exalted in Pisces, which simply means that, in Pisces, Venus’ best qualities radiate most powerfully and impact us most beneficially. This Venus in Pisces transit provides a major boost to all forms of interpersonal relationships; it allows us to feel and express love and devotion with a greater degree of truth, depth and compassion. The positive emotional power generated by this celestial aspect makes it an ideal time for connecting with the people we care about, and those we would like to care about.

Venus in Pisces offers us a unique opportunity to make the world a better place by using its energy to practice love and compassion in all we do, and by being of service to others. When we act with love and kindness we inspire others to do the same.

This is an excellent time for expressing creativity in every field, whether we choose to do so by championing a worthwhile cause or by expressing ourselves artistically. If you have never been involved in the arts but have always wanted to be, now would be the time to act upon your creative impulses. Search for a project that excites you, find a mentor or sign up for a course in something that will connect you with your passion.

On a cautionary note, feelings of nostalgia can run high during a Venus in Pisces transit—so be careful not to waste this cosmic gift by drifting into fantasy, or escaping into dreamy expectations that might frustrate or crush you when reality kicks in. Make the most of every moment by connecting to what and who you love with both your heart and your eyes wide open. Make your feelings count by ensuring they are real and honest. As always, the surest way to achieve this is by communicating with your higher self (or higher power) through yoga and meditation. Emotion is always most authentic and long-lasting when rooted in devotion.

Develop all these qualities and so much more this March with The Venus Program: Embracing the Love, Beauty and Sweetness of Life with your host, astro-palmist Guylaine Vallée.

By Ghanshyam Singh Birla, Vedic Palmist-Astrologer

 

To help you better navigate the year ahead, Ghanshyam has drawn up a chart for the New Year trends that forecast what we can expect in 2023. So, let’s take a look at what 2023 has in store for us astrologically.

 

 

Astrologically speaking, as many of you are aware, when you have a reading, we draw up a hora chart. According to Indian astrology, a horoscope is prepared at the time of your consultation because depending on the time and the positioning of planets, each hour is of utmost importance giving information on which planets are working in our favor and which ones are detrimental. The word ‘Hora’ translates into ‘Hour’ which signifies the prominence of each hour. Consequently, we’ve drawn up a Hora Chart to pinpoint the placement of the planets at the stroke of midnight on January 1st. This special chart reveals a wealth of information about what to expect in 2023 and provides us with insights into its themes and trends.

In the chart of 2023, we see the sign Virgo in the 1st house. This is considered auspicious as its ruler, Mercury, provides us with knowledge and intelligence. What’s more Mercury is placed in the 5th house related to our intellect, love, creativity and children. Mercury is in the sign of a good friend, Capricorn, which awakens our creativity to express in any form that inspires us—creating children, books or art out of love and giving a sense of pleasure.

 

Need for Greater Discernment

Even though having Mercury in the 5th house stirs our heart to express and share our joy, Mercury is not alone in the house as it is sitting with three other planets: Venus, Saturn and Pluto. This has a mixed effect on Mercury as the combined planetary energies of this configuration can compromise our discernment, both personally and on the world stage. Consequently, there could be a lack of cooperation, slowing down progress in efforts to solve such pressing global issues as climate change, nuclear proliferation, poverty and hunger.

The 5th house representing the mind shows that all of us—from the working person to world leaders—are contemplating finding solutions. We want to rehabilitate our systems of governance by developing greater integrity, getting rid of corruption and finding methods to extend help to all members of society. And with regards to our personal outlook, Mercury in the 5th house shows a greater care and concern to share our love and empathy on a deeper level.

However, having Pluto in the 5th house is likely to disrupt that process by initiating major global changes. Pluto is similar to the Hindu god Shiva, the creator and destroyer breaking down structures then creating new ones in their place. Having Pluto sitting side-by-side with Mercury, Venus and Saturn in the same house can create political upheaval as well as cultural and social conflict. The general unrest will prompt international groups, corporations and entire nations to form new alliances, first as a matter of protection and self-preservation, and then later as means of self-enrichment. Indeed, greed is still an issue for the foreseeable future.

Sadly, it appears the current tensions engulfing our planet will not be resolved in 2023. In fact, indications are that peaceful days will elude us for another 10 to 15 years due to utter suffering being caused by war, lack of food, air pollution, contaminated water, emerging viruses, homelessness, etc. Meanwhile, Mother Nature will continue to revolt with weather systems becoming more violent and unpredictable as temperatures keep rising along with ocean levels—all of which will add to the already overwhelming refugee crisis.

 

Acts of Kindness

Although we may feel safe far away from conflict zones and displaced person’s camps, we are not immune to the fear, stress and anxiety being generated by the unstable global situation. This can create a sense of frustration in us because, as mentioned, there are a lot of good things happening in the 5th house that are urging us to spread kindness and love through our creativity, ideas and actions. Even the smallest act of kindness or selflessness can have a major impact on someone’s life and our simple gesture nudges us closer to a more peaceful, tolerant and caring world.

Hopefully people will use this time to focus on the positive aspects of the 5th house and engage in self-understanding practices, such as yoga and meditation, that heighten and enlighten our awareness. Indeed, self-reflection, the peaceful exchange of ideas and a shared desire for the common good will inspire people around the world to think more objectively and work together to help humanity. Greater awareness will allow us to set aside our differences and co-create policies and methodologies to eliminate the need for conflict, restore peace to the world and reduce all human suffering.

A positive aspect of 2023’s chart is the fact that Sun is in Sagittarius in the 4th house. The 4th house represents our deep comfort zone and is associated with the warmth of home, our mother and our native land. The 4th house provides us with a feeling of security and a deep sense of happiness that makes us want to stay in one place and put down roots—a desire that is intensified with the presence of Sun in Sagittarius. However, because the Sun is related to the sign Leo in the 12th house (the house of loss), there may be a struggle to maintain a sense of equilibrium due to an unsettled heart.

The Moon, relating to our perception and emotions, is in the sign Aries in the 8th house along with Rahu and Uranus. This suggests that throughout 2023 many countries will make unsuccessful efforts to restore peace, safety and security to the world. Rahu in Aries will keep offering advice and recommendations for ending strife and conflict that could end up being both divisive and fruitless.

Luckily, Scorpio is the natural sign of the 8th house, reflecting the cycles of death and rebirth. It is associated with the underground, and all that is not immediately apparent to the physical eye. This includes the physical world of hidden treasure; for example, the ability to discover ancient artefacts, precious gems, and so on. Scorpio and the 8th house also relate to the metaphysical underworld, the world of our psyche (psychotherapy and metaphysical sciences such as astrology and palmistry) and our infinite soul. Having the Moon placed in the 8th house in the 2023 Hora indicates a willingness to search for the truth no matter how painful the process, which will help us in our personal growth and spiritual transformation.

Indeed, we will gain the greatest planetary benefits in 2023 if we focus on the energies of the Moon as it has a relation with its sign Cancer placed in the 11th house associated with gains of all kinds. Doing so will deepen our consciousness and help us discover the greatest hidden treasure of all—our soul. In fact, the Hora strongly suggests we will be successful in this effort because Mars, the ruler of the 8th house, is sitting in the 9th house—the house of good karma, morality and spiritual values. Additionally, Mars is aspecting its own sign of Scorpio in the 3rd house of bravery. This tells us that, despite the chaos of the outside world, if we set our mind to raising our consciousness, we can bring greater peace and understanding into the world—rest assured, we can do it!

 

Jupiter on Our Side

The best part of the New Year chart is having Jupiter in the 7th house, relating to our subconscious, the unseen 9/10th of an iceberg, our “better half” and our feelings toward our colleagues. Jupiter is the planet of spirituality, heightened awareness and wisdom. Being the largest planet in our solar system, Jupiter is known for its ability to expand our minds, hearts, and souls. It is a teacher, eager to open us up to the endless opportunities in our lives and all possibilities our world has to offer us. Jupiter is all about reaching further and going beyond our boundaries.

What’s more, in the 2023 chart, Jupiter is in its own sign of Pisces, bringing out the best that Jupiter has to offer. It blesses us with an intuitive understanding of the spiritual dimension of life, helping us realize that human life is a precious gift given to us to fulfill an ennobling purpose. Ultimately, the mystical nature of Pisces may result in a state of joy, including a love for the divine within and for all humanity. Pisces relates to the potential of seeing the sacred in everything and, consequently, becoming the sign of the healer.

Pisces is the last sign of the zodiac and therefore represents boundlessness. Jupiter’s presence in Pisces helps to magnify this expansive way of living, helping us experience a depth of thought, emotion and understanding we otherwise would never «have dreamed possible. Further, Jupiter in Pisces in the 7th house relating to our subconscious reveals we all want peace. We are tired of facing insecurity and uncertainty, and are longing for a lifestyle that reflects more tranquillity free from any agitation, disputes and turmoil. Well, with 2023’s auspicious Jupiter-Pisces connection, we might just get it! How?

Jupiter in Pisces in the 7th house enriches everything it touches due to its positive attitude and commitment to goodness. Hence, we should do our best to embrace those qualities especially since Jupiter is also aspecting an exalted Cancer in the gains house. So, if our mind is open and our attitude is good, all kinds of success are awaiting us in the coming year. Nevertheless, we must remain strong and centered in ourselves—it is important not to dwell on any negativity or criticism and to maintain a unified feeling with others because, as the saying goes, “divided we fall”.

One challenge to maintaining our peace of mind is Jupiter’s placement with Neptune in the 7th house. Neptune has a duel nature; it is the planet of inspiration but also the planet of illusion and confusion. Nevertheless, it will support Jupiter as long as we follow our heart and listen to our intuition. Indeed, we will get ourselves into trouble if we fail to attune to the whispers of our intuition and instead use our mind to justify the reasons for the actions we take in order to get what we want. Consequently, we have to monitor our attitude and try to remain as objective and honest with ourselves regarding our motivations.

 

How To Benefit From The New Year's Chart

Even though the sign Cancer in the 11th house is exalted (at its strongest) by Jupiter’s aspect, it is also being bombarded by all the planets opposing it in the 5th house—Saturn, Pluto, Venus and Mercury—and not one of those planets is a friend of Cancer. In many ways, this scenario will make our journey through 2023 a bit like walking along a razor’s edge to ensure the goodness of Jupiter prevails and not the temptations, desires and tests coming from the opposing planets. Hence, we must make a conscious effort to follow the path set out for us by Jupiter in Pisces. How can we do this? By embracing the qualities of empathy, kindness and consideration for others. Boosting Jupiter qualities is of utmost importance as Jupiter, in the chart of 2023, is the only planet that can bring out the best of the 11th house, including prosperity and the fulfillment of our aspirations and desires.

Also, we must look to the 5th house—the house of the mind—and channel its creativity to deepen our understanding of the human condition; we must strive to love everyone in our lives, care for our children, protect the vulnerable and express kindness in our words and deeds. By practicing meditation, mantra recitation and pranayama on a regular basis, we will open our spiritual core and radiate peace.

As everyone is aware, all things in life must pass; neither the good nor the bad times last forever—they are evolutionary cycles our consciousness experiences on our journey through existence. As long as we are committed to wisdom, love and peace, our heart will remain settled in joy no matter what 2023 brings our way. Let’s make an effort to meditate together and wish eternal peace, happiness and joy to the world and one another.

 

God Bless you all!

 

Ghanshyam Singh Birla

By Guylaine Vallée, Vedic Palmist-Astrologer

 

Few astronomical phenomena are as impressive as an eclipse. Eclipses can be very potent symbols of world events and astrologers have always placed great meaning upon them. And in the next few weeks, we will witness a few eclipses.


October 25th: Solar Eclipse

A partial solar eclipse begins Tuesday, October 25th at 4:58 am and ends at 9:02 am EST. The maximum eclipse will be at 7:00 am. Rahu and Ketu are the lunar nodes, which are the points where the moon's path in the sky crosses the sun's path, or ecliptic. Solar eclipses occur when the passage of the Moon through a node coincides with the new moon. In this case, the Sun and Moon are in Libra close to the South Node and the North Node is in Aries.


November 8th: Lunar Eclipse

A total lunar eclipse begins Tuesday, November 8th at 3:02 am and ends at 6:59 am, EST. The maximum eclipse will be at 5:59 am. The lunar eclipse occurs with the opposition of the Sun and Moon. In this case, the Sun is in Libra close to the North Node and the Moon (full Moon) in Aries is close to the South Node.


In Vedic astrology, eclipses are regarded as powerful (often tumultuous or even earth-shattering) portents of both personal and world events. The light of the luminaries—the Sun and Moon—is obscured, potentially casting shadows across our awareness. The truth, according to Vedic Astrology, is that the day of an eclipse or the few days surrounding it are not a good time to begin or end things, make important decisions or sign contracts. In fact, the same goes for the 2-week period that separates the solar and lunar eclipses. This is because auspicious beginnings are blessed with light, ideally the light of a healthy, full moon and the daytime sun. We can’t stress it enough, with Rahu and Ketu gobbling up this light, we need to use our discernment wisely.

As the Moon relates to our mind and emotion, during an eclipse, don’t let any unsettling emotions disturb your peace. Ketu, the Moon’s South node, relating to past karma, forces us to take stock of any emotional issues that took place during the last six months. Rahu, the Moon’s North node, relating to the present, can create undue attachments and obsessions. So, this period can be used as a time of reflection to resolve and reset our emotions and move towards the future with a more spiritual understanding of where we have been and where we would like to go.

During these eclipses, it is best to remain peaceful and objective, and not let any emotions overshadow our good judgment. We would be well-served by taking some quiet time to tune in and pay heed to the “small still voice within”—to follow the wisdom of our heart. Make sure, due to the obstruction of the light of the two powerful luminaries that we use our discernment wisely; otherwise, we can affect the happiness of those close to us.

Consequently, it was always considered that during an eclipse, it is a great time to stay in, meditate and be reflective. It is especially effective for introspection and connecting with the Spirit within you.

And, as eclipses temporarily block the light of the luminaries, it is an ideal time to connect with our inner light through self-reflection, contemplation, mantra and meditation. We recommend reciting the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, the mantra of Shiva, during an eclipse. This mantra helps release our consciousness from limiting patterns of negative thought and behavior; it opens us to deeper insight, gives us a greater freedom of self-expression and instills within us the strength needed to meet a specific challenge, attain a desired goal or overcome blockages interfering with our well-being.

To know more about the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra or to purchase it, click here.

 

by Vedic Astro-Palmist Guylaine Vallée

A full Moon lunar eclipse begins this Sunday, May 15th, 2022, at 9:32 pm and ends Monday, May 16 at 2:50 am. The maximum eclipse will be at 12:11 am. Rahu and Ketu are the lunar nodes, which are the points where the moon's path in the sky crosses the sun's path, or ecliptic. The lunar eclipse occurs with the opposition of the Sun and Moon close to the Nodes. In this case, the Sun is in Taurus close to the North Node and the Moon in Scorpio is close to the South Node.

In Vedic astrology eclipses are regarded as powerful (often tumultuous or even earth-shattering) portents of both personal and world events. The illuminating light of the Moon is obscured, potentially casting shadows across our awareness.

As the Moon relates to our mind and emotion, at this time, don’t let any unsettled emotions disturb your peace.  Ketu, the Moon’s South node, relating to past karma, forces us to take stock of any emotional issues that took place during the last six months. Rahu, the Moon’s North node, relating to the present, can create undue attachments and obsessions. So, this period can be used as a time of reflection to resolve and reset our emotions and move towards the future with a more spiritual understanding of where we have been and where we would like to go.

During this eclipse, it is best to remain peaceful and objective, and not let any emotions overshadow our good judgment. We would be well-served by taking some quiet time to tune in and pay heed to the “small still voice within”—to follow the wisdom of our heart. Make sure, due to the obstruction of the light of the two powerful luminaries – the Sun and Moon – that we use our discernment wisely; otherwise, we can affect the happiness of those close to us.

The truth, according to Vedic Astrology, is that eclipses are not a good time to begin or end things. This is because auspicious beginnings are blessed with light, ideally the light of a healthy, full Moon and the daytime Sun. We can’t stress it enough, with Rahu and Ketu gobbling up this light, we need to use our discernment wisely.

Click the image to buy this Mantra

Consequently, it was always considered that during an eclipse, it is a great time to stay in, meditate, and be reflective. It is especially effective for introspection and connecting with the Spirit within you.

And, as eclipses temporarily block the light of the luminaries, it is an ideal time to connect with our inner light through self-reflection, contemplation, mantra and meditation. With the Moon in Scorpio, we recommend reciting the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, the mantra of Shiva, during this eclipse. This mantra helps release our consciousness from limiting patterns of negative thought and behavior; it opens us to deeper insight, gives us a greater freedom of self-expression and instills within us the strength needed to meet a specific challenge, attain a desired goal or overcome blockages interfering with our well-being.

To know more about the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra or to purchase it, click here.

 

2022: What to Expect in The Year Ahead

By Ghanshyam Singh Birla, Vedic Palmist-Astrologer

 

To help you better navigate the year ahead, Ghanshyam has drawn up a chart for the New Year forecasting the trends we can expect in 2022.

For the past couple of years, our attention has been intensely focused on the 4th house representing “home” in all its manifestations—the comfort and security of our home, the happiness and warmth of family, changes to our dwelling place, including renovations, restructuring, buying and selling and the nurturing figure of our mother. On a global scale, the 4th house reflects the stability of our homeland, Mother Earth, the world and our familial connection with all of humanity. The year 2022 will shift our focus to the 5th house of love and creativity.

Like last year’s chart, the ascendant Virgo is at a powerful 15 degrees. However, while last year Mercury, the ruler of Virgo, was sitting in the 4th house debilitated in Sagittarius, this year, Mercury is sitting comfortably in the sign of its friend, Capricorn, in the 5th house. This awakens our creativity to express in any form that inspires us—creating children, books or art out of love and giving a sense of pleasure.

Additionally, the ruler of the sign Capricorn, Saturn, is sitting with Mercury in the 5th house. When the planetary ruler of a house is sitting in its own sign, in this case Saturn in Capricorn, it assures, or almost guarantees, our productivity and provides us with a depth of well-intentioned longing to rise and shine with joy, poise and prosperity of spirit. That positive planetary energy makes 2022 a great year for planning, creating, restructuring and, above all, for seeking higher wisdom. In fact, because of the influence of Saturn in its own sign, 2022 is a perfect time to develop spiritually through prayer, meditation and quiet self-reflection, all of which will promote a sense of wellness and feeling of peace, affection and love.

But will we have the strength and courage needed to turn a new page in 2022 and begin anew? The answer is a resounding yes! In the New Year’s chart, Mars, the warrior planet, is sitting in its own sign of Scorpio which, thanks to Mars’ placement in the 3rd house, will enable us to cultivate bravery, self-assurance and resolve. Additionally, Ketu is conjunct Mars in the 3rd house which, on one the hand, can help usher in long-awaited social reform. On the other hand, it requires the use of discernment and wisdom to determine the best course of action for us to take, both as individuals and as a society. Of course, not everyone agrees on what the best course of action is when it comes to such things as personal freedoms or climate change, so we must be careful to avoid misunderstandings as a result of miscommunication that could bring complications into our life.

Thankfully, Jupiter in Aquarius is sitting in the 6th house, which means God’s continuing grace will help us realize excellence in our physical, mental and emotional being. Jupiter in the 6th protects us from wandering into the wrong environment or associating with people who use negative, disruptive or violent means to get their way, be it invading the Ukraine or throwing a PTA meeting into chaos.

Nevertheless, we must be vigilant in maintaining inner poise at home because the Sun is in the 4th house, which as we know is the house of home. And while the Sun is happy to be in the 10th, house, where it can shine its light on the public events, it can be too hot and intense for the 4th house, relating to our home, roots, homeland or any place we consider a private sanctuary. So, it is extremely important to maintain our inner poise and persist to remain centered in the face of everyday changing circumstances, including our relation to Mother Earth and climatic uncertainty.

Another aspect of the 2022 chart we should be aware of is that it contains a challenging Kal Sarpa yoga, which means all the planets are on one side of the chart. This creates a polarity that can leave us feeling either imbalanced or very focused—the choice is ours. Many famous individuals who have changed the course of history had Kal Sarpa yogas in their birth charts. Consequently, it’s important for us not be thrown off balance. Indeed, the chart of 2022 suggests this is an ideal chance for us to make great strides in our evolutionary journey—to positively transform our lives no matter how much confusion, panic or upheaval is swirling around us.

How to Make the Most of 2022

But how do we remain calm and centered, especially when the world seems to be turning upside down? Well, a sure-fired method is starting each day with a morning meditation. This works even better when combined with a 15-minute recitation of the Lord Ganesh mantra (Om Ganesha Rinam Chhindhi Varenyam Hum Namaha Phat. Ganesh is, of course, the Vedic deity who removes obstacles blocking our path to success and happiness.

While meditating, remember to focus on the third eye, the point between the eyebrows known as the Christ consciousness center. The third eye connects us to our superconscious; it is here that our prayers are answered—where solutions to our problems appear to us. And it is where we cultivate peace and joy. Indeed, one of my favorite Bible passages—one that gives me a deep sense of assurance—is Revelations 3:20, in which Christ promises his followers they can reach him anytime by focusing on their third eye. “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.”

Have a safe and blessed 2022!

We are currently experiencing a rare Shoola Yoga, where all the planets are situated in only three signs affecting three houses related to specific areas of your life. This accentuates those areas, making things very intense for us. This yoga with its concentration on three houses corresponds to the three-prong trident, or tri-shoola, Lord Shiva uses to ward off negative energy threatening to disrupt the harmony of our body, mind and heart.

Consequently, this yoga is considered auspicious if we approach it with reverence and respect. During this period, prayers and devotion will be rewarded with good fortune. As we mentioned, the energy of the Shoola Yoga is so powerful because all planetary energy is being concentrated in just three houses. If we can channel this energy calmly and purposefully, we will achieve a great deal of success. However, if we fail to direct this intense energy constructively it can overwhelm us.

If we are able to remain focused, flexible, and patient and adapt to the surge of concentrated cosmic energy, we can achieve miracles and move mountains.

What makes this Shoola Yoga so special is that it coincides with Maha Shivaratri, the ‘Great Night’ of Shiva, the Lord of yoga, meditation and transformation.

This year, Maha Shivaratri falls on Thursday, March 11th.

It is said that during Maha Shivaratri we gain many blessings by reciting the name of Lord Shiva: Aum Namah Shivaya, by chanting the Shiva mantra, Maha Mrityunjaya. Also, we invite you to experience a Maha Shivaratri fire ceremony with Ghanshyam on our YouTube Channel.

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