Mercury Retrograde in Aries ~> 12th March 2012

Strength often shines through in the most extraordinary circumstances during hard times. It’s as though the will to act and create comes directly from the source. In astrology we look to Aries for such bravery and the cosmic urge that powers and propels.

We are now in the run-up to Spring Equinox, at 0 degrees Aries; and Mercury, planet of the mind, went retrograde yesterday (12th March) in the sign of the Warrior. At the solar marker of equal-day equal-night Mercury will conjoin the Equinox Sun. Mercury rules the mind, and Aries individual assertion. In the coming weeks impetus and volition are subject to razor-sharp analysis - with potentially brilliant insight.

Note that throughout this retrograde period, when Mercury even leaves the sign of the Ram and goes back into Pisces (March 24th), to contemplate the end of certain matters, Mercury’s dominant healing challenge is actually in relation to the group-oriented Uranus, planet of dramatic change as well as humanitarian altruism. Both planets are airy and intellectual, combining to initiate unusual change, making contact three times. The first was only a few days ago (on 5th March); the second conjunction is on the 18th March, just before equinox; and again a month later on the 22nd April.

From the point of view of esoteric astrology this is an important series of conjunctions. Mercury is the esoteric ruler of Aries, suggesting the hot-headed Ram needs to be smart to make right action; and Uranus is the hierarchical ruler of Aries, accenting how one distinctively operates within the crowd. Recognising the value of each unique individual's heroic contribution in the process of collective evolution is the optimum way to ensure all talents are bravely actualised and accomplished.

Also worth baring in mind is that the Aries Mercury and Virgo Mars are not only both retrograde, but they are currently in 'mutual reception', i.e. Mars rules Aries and Mercury rules Virgo; so that the hero's 'right action' and 'right understanding' work well together, particularly with self-introspection. Mercury goes forward on the 4th April. And Mars goes forward on the 14th April; until which date we are advised to exercise patience and not be too rash or aggressive - in Buddhist thinking this is actually a good reminder that anger wipes out karmic merit in one fell swoop.  

“The true hero is one who conquers his own anger and hatred”. ~ His Holiness 14th Dalai Lama

Chotrul Duchen ☼ March 8th 2012 Full Moon in Virgo_(♥)_

_(♥)_.•✩¨¯`•☆٠.•..•¨*☽☀★☼

2012’s – or should I say- 2139’s Chotrul Duchen is Full Virgo Moon ~> The 15^th day of the first Tibetan month since Losar, Tibetan New year, is a Festival of LIGhT and a‘Day of Miracles’, when (Pisces) prayers are offered to the Buddha and karma is multiplied X 100 million _(♥)_

*♥* The 18Virgo Full Moon is conjunct retrograde Mars, in opposition to Spirit Sun in the compassionate sign of the fish ~> The Virgin Luna highlights purification, dedication and practice, all the while reflecting the light of the devotional Pisces Sun, through meditation, yoga, music, dance, art (etc), internalising pure wisdom with an awareness of (the need for) spiritual healing . 

The SUN in astrology is also consciousness: the LIGHT of INTELLIGENCE. Solar Dragon X-flares are now hurling plasma, protons, and charged particles in though both of Earth’s poles, north and south: Earth’s avaduti and spiritual gateways, boosting cosmic light sustenance that we can use to align in meditation, generating even more light, and that all important Bodhicitta. 

_(♥)_.•✩¨¯`•☆٠.•..•¨*☽☀★☼ 

Yet with a still-in-aspect Sun~Mars opposition, stories of war oppress: I was wondering: does human blood's iron-count go up when testosterone-driven Mars is closer to the Earth, and associated with the Sun? (As it is right now, retrograde in Virgo and in opposition to the Sun.) I can't find anything on the net (so far) along these lines? Not sure if it were a dream I had that Japanese scientists were analysing blood iron ratio to Mars perihelion in the 90’s. I wish there were research grants for ideas like this – maybe there is - somewhere? If not, there ought to be.

_(♥)_.•✩¨¯`•☆٠.•..•¨*☽☀★☼

"Through violence, you may 'solve' one problem, but you sow the seeds for another." H.H. Dalai Lama

 _(♥)_.•✩¨¯`•☆٠.•..•¨*☽☀★☼

 

The Sun~Mars also reminds that any applied patience over the past few days will stand anyone in good stead in the karmic merit bank, and may well be good practice this upcoming Full Moon, because La Luna’s light grows into culmination all the while sidling along by the retrograde warrior planet Mars. Passion is easily roused when sensitive Moon and fiery Red Mars commune in light near fixed Royal Star, Regulus, the dramatic heart of the regal Lion ♥

Mars also rules Aries, the dynamic sign in which communicative Mercury now joins forces with altruistic Uranus for the 1st of 3 conjunctions (as Mercury starts an applying soon-to-be-retrograde shadow period). Both Mercury & Uranus are in a tight square to transformational Pluto. Quick-moving change is taking place all over the show. Some change might seem choppy. Note that any issue or agreement in dispute may take another month or so to work-out and rework into a new dynamic.

It’s an excitable astral mix :) _(♥)_

Ardour is aroused, as Goddess of Love, Venus, is now at home in Taurus, doubling Jupiter's joy, feasting and merry-making, for the Full Virgo Moon and Losar’s ‘Day of Miracles’ on Thursday 8th March (9:39am gmt) ~> Jupiter’s day! This Full Virgo Moon reflecting the Pisces Sun holds potentially abundant prayerful healing, as well as a steadying of expectation _(♥)_ The Pisces Sun and Virgo Moon see the Divine in the ordinary.

Dedicating any goodness of a day when karma is multiplied to the benefit of all beings, with the wish that they may be free from suffering (Pisces), and become the best they can be (Virgo).

Enjoy! There's a splendid display of spectacular auroras already dancing around Earth’s poles with the Water Dragon Sun especially hot on winged heels during this rather vigorous Sun-Mars opposition, with its triple Solar ‘X-flare’ signature . ♥¸.•✩¨¯`•☆٠.•..•¨*☽☀★☼



Its also Holi, the Indian 'Festival of Colours' and International Woman's Day! May the miraculous blessings of the Goddess be colourful & glorious! :)

Om Mani Padme Hung _(|)_

Losar Guru Rinpoche Day ~> 3rd March 2012

Spirit Sun opposes dynamic Mars during today’s Guru Rinpoche day, the first in our year of the inscrutable Dragon; and the currently perceptive Moon conjoins active Mars in a few days time for the Losar Full Moon ‘Day of Miracles’ on the 8th March (International Woman’s day!). The inspired Pisces Sun encourages spiritual service, showing compassion and kindness to all beings, while a retrograde Mars in Virgo can get ultra-critical, stuck in the discerning search for personal perfection. Though a helpful and rather auspicious trine formation between today’s Pisces Sun and the receptive Moon, now at home in super-sensitive Cancer, suggests applying skilful means – patience, insight and analytical reasoning quickly clears thinking clouded by unrelated feelings, to tell the difference between illusion and delusion. Recognising what is real or pure fantasy calms this potentially tricky aspect between Sun and Mars. Good time for healing rifts and familiarising oneself with what is truly healthy for body and soul _/♥\_ ૐ

LOSAR ~ TIBETAN New Year 2139 Black Water Dragon ~Feb-22-2012

Best LOSAR wishes to EVERYONE for the TIBETAN NEW YEAR of the WATER DRAGON 2139! _/♥\_ 

New Moon is at 22:35gmt (-5 NY, +5:30 Delhi) in 2 Pisces; Sun and Moon conjunct Neptune, Pallas Athena, Chiron & Mercury all in Pisces indicate that magic is in the air with such an extraordinary heavenly line-up, encouraging one to make a plan to heal the suffering of being a human floundering in the sea of Samsara, to dissolve duality into ONEness and experience Piscean/Neptunian emptiness & bliss _/♥\_ ૐ And maybe even create a miracle by Full Moon on March 8th, the 'Day of Miracles' ♥ 

Although we’ve been asked not to celebrate Losar this year, and to remain in prayer for those who are in Tibet, I still want to bubble up through the Piscean Dragon water and say please do enJOY the spiritual offerings and essential greatness this combination of planets symbolises. 

Essentially there are a great many pointers that indicate that now is the time think in longer cycles, not just where we are in relation to the East’s Black Water Dragon, who is active, passionate and extremely perceptive for a whole solar year; but also our Western Oceanic Neptune is now at home in imaginative Pisces for the next 14 years; and this new way of collective sensing even reverberates with yesterday’s MahaShivratri, the Hindu festival when Shiva dances his creative-destructive cosmic dance, at the same time he saves humanity by drinking the poison which comes about from churning-up the milky universe; this rather selfless and compassionate, Dzogchen action perfectly aligns with current planetary aspirations to save or be rescued.  

With so many planets resonnanting together in the sign of samsara and nirvana, hope and hopelessness, victims and martyrs - especially those who suffer for their spiritual faith - I am also saying a prayer for all those in Tibet – including the Chinese. This currently horrific wave of violence and self-immolation or reactive crackdown is tragic for all concerned.  Yet while both cultures have much in common - and there has to be a 'middle way', I also feel incredibly helpless, as totalitarian commercialism marches upon all indigenous and shamanic beings who live in close harmony to the land and the elements, all over the world.  It is not just Tibet where 'tribals' and 'communities' are threatened and often sacrificed in the name of power. Still, it is still interesting how Tibet and China do share certain development (Much like the English and Irish, i.e. similar, but not quite.). In the calendar there are often have different starting dates for new elemental years. China, and a most of Asia, always celebrate on the Aquarius New Moon. The energy of which indicates an intellectual cool and detached approach to humanity (which also resonates with China’s Moon sign). The Tibetan year shifts between Aquarius, and where it is found more often, in devoted and spiritual Pisces. Maybe this says something about the general population themselves? All food for thought - especially if we consider the difference of being Jupiter ruled, or Saturn ruled, as is New Year for most of the world. 

This year's Losar Pisces Black Water Dragon Neptune Moon is a serious reminder us that our global theme of the moment is the state of our WATER.  To be in the flow: of water, of communication, cash, and cosmic biocognative energy is what the coming decade is all about. Good to note that Pisces's traditional ruler is Jupiter, modern ruler is Neptune, and esoteric ruler is Pluto; in this order it suggests that in the past we grew, at present we dissolve into divinty, and deep down, within the shared psyche, we powerfully transform – a process that takes generations to complete; but once it happens as a race we evolve to become more compassionate and caring, as indicated by the highest vibration of this end of zodiac sign. That’s the theory anyway. We may actually keep on swimming in our own nonsense forevermore, which would also be quite in keeping with Pisces/Neptune & the 12^th House – otherwise known as the Celestial Dustbin, as dear Liz Green calls it!   

:) Me? I prefer the super-subtle but mighty-powerful spiritual evolution that’s on offer and, seeing as Pisces is on my 4th house cusp (and the angles are always very important for transits), I will no doubt see my spiritual foundation grow, dissolve, and surrender into the transformation within the magical and universal unfolding of mystical Neptune in emotional Pisces _/♥\_ ૐ

So, with that..

I wish all beings are happy, that they be free from suffering and that all are liberated from this ocean of Samsara and its pounding waves of old age, birth, sickness and death. _/♥\_ ૐ

_/♥\_ ૐ_/♥\_ ૐ_/♥\_ ૐ_/♥\_ ૐ_/♥\_ ૐ_/♥\_ ૐ_/♥\_ ૐ_/♥\_ ૐ_/♥\_ ૐ_/♥\_ ૐ

Sun * Neptune * Chiron * Pallas-Athena * Mercury in Pisces ❤♫ ><((((º>

Spirit Sun now at last anaretic degree of humanitarian Aquarius ~> changing signs into magical Pisces at 6:19am tomorrow, 19th Feb. Sensitive Moon is also about to enter her dark and most reflective phase, to be new in the sign of the fishes on Tuesday, celebrating LOSAR and Tibetan New Year of the WATER DRAGON 2139, on Wednesday 22nd.

Our new era of merging dimensions & spiritual awareness is progressing. Setting an altruistic intention to generate Bodhicitta as the Sun, as LIGHT of intelligence, moves into spiritual water sign Pisces, to conjoin oceanic Neptune (for the 1st time in 165 years (which rules Pisces)) with Shaman-healer Chiron, warrior-woman Pallas Athena, AND informative Mercury (plus Losar Moon) this weeks' heavenly message is profound :::~~> "DEEP EMOTIONAL HEALING" ❤♫ ♥❤•

><((((º>♥><((((º>❤♫ ♥❤• ><((((º> ♥ ><((((º>♥♪•●❤♫ ♥❤•><((((º>♥

‘As without, so within’; As we heal our own delusion with love & gratitude, we also heal the world around us, including the most subtle vibration that enhances the structure of Earth's precious water.

Swimming through Neptune's undulating depths Whales are the world's record keepers; as such they're Shamanic totems for wise souls who understand the painful secrets of the deep, wherein lies a psychic and cosmic vibration that highlights connectivity and Global ONEness. Through listening to whale song we resonate with longer cycles of time and generational issues; Whales, and other beings from the seas and oceans, help us overcome any fear of the unknown, to explore unchartered realms and tune into the collective (un)conscious, emphasising ancestral healing and deep spiritual insight, with sensitivity and unconditional love and compassion _(❤)_

><((((º> ♥ ><((((º>❤♫ ♥❤• ><((((º> ♥ ><((((º>♥♪•●❤♫ ♥❤ ><((((º>❤

><((((º> MERCURY conjunct NEPTUNE in Pisces ><((((º> ♥ ♪♪♫

><((((º> ♥ ♪♪♫ ♥❤• ><((((º> ♥ ♪♪♫ ٠•●♥ ♪♪♫ ♥❤•:::~>❤ ♪♪♫ ♥❤• ><((((º> ♥ ><((((º> ♥ ♪♪♫ ٠•●♥❤♥●•><((((º> ~~> MERCURY conjunct NEPTUNE & CHIRON in mystical & musical PISCES!!!! 1st time for 165 yearS !!! ♥ ♪♪♫ ٠•●♥❤♥●• ><((((º> ♥ ♪♪♫ ٠•●♥❤♥●• ><((((º> ♥ ♪♪♫ ♥❤• ><((((º> ♥ ♪♪♫ ٠•●♥ ♪♪♫ ♥❤•:::~> COMPASSIONATE WORLD SERVICE

♥ ♓ Mercury = the mind, intellect & communication
♥ ♓ Neptune = collective undercurrents, oceanic & fluid
♥ ♓ Chiron = the healing Shaman

All 3 planets in water sign PISCES ♓ (conjunct new Moon at LOSAR on 22nd!) A magical sign of wonder, shared experiences, and spiritual ONEness.

& today is also the last quarter soul-renewing SCORPIO VALENTINE MOON! ☼★☽

Looking beyond the obvious with profound INSIGHT ~> in the flow of UNIVERSAL unfolding _(❤)_ saying healing PRAYERs for oceanic Neptune's WATER; imagining in the mind's eye; ~> curing emotional delusion with UNCONDITIONAL LOVE, compassion, FORgiveness and SPIRITUAL ONEness...

Inviting a precious drop of BODHICITTA :::~~> for an AWAKENed *HEART~MIND* living for the benefit of all beings, wishing to attain the enlightened essence _(❤)_ & Living for LOVE ❤❤❤......

...♪♪♫ ٠•●♥❤♥●• ><((((º> ♥ ♪♪♫ ♥❤• ><((((º> ♥ ♪♪♫ ٠•●♥...
& music and dancing and meditating and connecting to the DIVINE beauty ~> joyously taking refuge in Buddha, Dharma & Sangha, Guru, Yidam & Dakini __(❤)__

Love Heals ♥ ~> Last Quarter ♥ Valentine ♥ Scorpio Moon ♥

A Last Quarter Valentine Scorpio Moon on Tuesday ♥ Feb 14^th has the power to help to overcome obstacles and heal the heart and Spirit of all kinds of relationships, be that with yourself, your family, your friends, colleagues or co-workers, as well as the treasured Valentine heart.

With Spirit Sun in eccentric Aquarius, in a closing square to the extremely perceptive Scorpio Moon, the lights accent the profoundly therapeutic qualities of Medicine Buddha as well as Goddess Tara’s enlightened activity. Both signs, Aquarius & Scorpio, are fixed and fearless. Aquarius is cold sharp Air, and Scorpio the inexhaustible well of Water; together they produce instinctive intelligence, combining intellect and sensitivity to delve into deep and delicate issues with an air of cool detachment, yet still emotionally engaged.  This, in my opinion, is a most shamanic Sun-Moon combination.  Not only are we one week away from Losar, the Tibetan New year, but one must also bare in mind how the Moon is also hierarchical ruler of Aquarius, suggesting that only when everyone’s needs are met does humanity evolve.  

So we say goodbye to the Rabbit Year, and before the New Water Dragon begins this Mysterious Scorpio Moon could takes us into very dark spaces and places, just as the non-conformist Aquarius Sun provides a fluorescent electric zapper that twinkles and illuminates, especially tantalising within the hypnotic shadows. In short, now is the time to liberate the psyche, and shine laser-light insight into the depths of the receptive soul, to access an assess previously ignored or hidden situations or circumstance (within, as in one’s own intuitive action, speech, or intent; as well as without, as in inter-personal and/or intimate relationship).

Throughout this global day of Medicine Buddha Insightful Goddess Love, our aspirations can be like a humanitarian Water Bearer, firmly holding an altruistic wish for all to be in their flow; at the same time our sensitive Scorpio Moon develops inner-resources that enable us to release negativity into the void, to be at once transformed and purified. During any crisis of conscience, be aware that clarity and wisdom work together at this point in time in a state of highly creative tension, dancing between crazy inspiration and total obsession - an extraordinary dynamic that can nourish and feed personal relations as well as the global family. Happy Valentine, dear heartS ♥♥♥

Bear Woman Dreaming by Susan Seddon Boulet ~> & thx to unknown artist for earth HEART

Moon conjunct Saturn Rx in Libra

MOON currently conjunct SATURN: 12:02:12
I've been busy this end taking care of body & soul, emphasising an important ASTRO development last week - specifically how Saturn went retrograde with the new moon. Saturn, still exalted in the sign of the scales, goes back from 29 degrees all the way to 22Libra on June 26, just after Summer solstice. This last, 'anaretic', degree can be a toughie as it has all the energy of LIBRA ready to change from one sign to another, therefore already sensing Scorpio's laser-like perception and the lessons that will entail (from Oct onwards). But in our current course, taskmaster Saturn's karmic lesson - that of coming from the lovely Libran heart - needs one last thorough reappraisal, so we really can remain centred whilst going through collective evolutionary transformation.

With the sensitive Moon now conjunct Saturn this Sunday afternoon, there's a slow-down and a possibility of feeling daunted by the work needed in the first part of a Dragon year (to deal with balancing the coming months of Saturn's retrograde). Be aware that reminding oneself that LOVE conquers fear, and taking responsibility for our own heart - and the relationships we make - any internal personal work which has the aim of becoming more loving and peaceful, and willing to enter into dialogue in relationship, stands everyone in good stead for another karmic cycle (or more!).

Leo full Moon ❤ Feb 2012 ❤ The LOVE thing

☆~☽❤ ☼ ❤☾~☆ Whoo-hoo ~> LEO FULL MOON tonight, reflecting the intelligent ‘light that shines across the sea’ from a friendly Aquarian Sun = it’s A LOVE THING that stimulates the heart-mind!

At the exact time of the 18 degree Full Moon 21:54 GMT (-5 for NY; +5 1/2 Delhi) Spirit Sun conjuncts Mercury, the celestial courier; news and/or conversations could be a wake-up call, to the point, and insightful. Mercury always carries a healing message. What we learn now impacts upon our integrity in the coming months (especially while dynamic Mars is retrograde in principled Virgo). So get ready to drop the sun-ruled-Leo-ego and radiate a generous and steady kind of ardour that reaches to the edges of the universe, melting even the iciest heart at this Imbolc Valentine Full Leo Moon! __(❤)__

Also worthy of astro note, whilst out moon-bathing, is how the Lord of Karma, Saturn, goes retrograde today (until just after Summer Solstice, going all the way back to 22 Libra); still exalted in the sign of the scales, the heavenly taskmaster teaches us to be responsible for the love we share and to remain balanced within. From a calm centre we have more chance of realising how truth, peace and justice are the means of living in harmony upon our oh-so beautiful planet. __(❤)__

Neptune in Pisces & the Miracle of Spiritual Love _/\_♥ ૐ Feb 2012

Oceanic NEPTUNE changes signs today, Feb 3rd, returning to imaginative PISCES for the first time in 165 years (for only the 2nd time since its discovery!) ~> where the magical 8th outer planet stays for the next 14 years, until 2026. Mystical Neptune in spiritual Pisces stimulates deep sensitivity, a shared sense of oneness and collective emotional experiences, as well as the third eye. Individual intuitive psychic senses are also heightened, as is the urge to submerge and infuse with the Divine through blissful Piscean/Neptune ways, i.e. yoga, meditation, prayer, subtle body awareness, ritual trance, healing, art, music, dance, poetry, film, photography, and swimming, or any other positive activity in which we lose or renounce the ego-grasping self, happy to be in the cosmic love vibration, and of spiritual service of other sentient beings.

To actively achieve this compassionate condition, in the Mahayana Buddhist tradition we generate ‘Bodhicitta’, which is precious state of mind. Bodhi means 'awakened' or 'enlightened' – 'citta' is the heart-mind. When we generate bodhicitta not only do we want other s to be free from suffering, we also want to be awakened ourselves - and this means we must also be kind to our ‘self’. Bodhicitta therefore aims for both personal and planetary healing, which Neptune in Pisces indicates. 

Fourteen years is a long time in a sign, and the ingress chart for London sets the cosmic intention of Neptune Pisces, still travelling with heaven's wounded healing shaman, Chiron, also in Pisces since April 2010. Together these planets imply the importance of (planetary and personal) emotional healing, as well as the need to purify the world’s water. Luckily, Neptune and Chrion also approach the descendant, point of contracts, signifying much can be done together, as spiritual friends, in loving healing partnership, actively involved in generating bodhicitta, and a balanced heart with the light of awareness.  

The ingress chart also shows Neptune and Pluto in 'septile' to each other; this celestial connection creates a rarely seen magical portal between the two outer generational planets, denotes a small window of opportunity to transform our understanding of the 'unseen' Neptunian or Piscean vibration - one might also read that because Neptune's nature is to create illusion and glamour, this lovely aspect - that could signify spiritual critical mass - could pass us by. (But I don't think that will be the case.)  

A deLIGHTful 'Grand Trine' involves the 6th house Neptune in water sign Pisces, in trine to a conversant 10th house Moon in airy Gemini, and Saturn in Libra in 2nd, also in Air.  The 6^th house Neptune accents daily spiritual practice; Moon in the 10^th suggests a responsibility to keep informed; and Saturn in the 2^nd tells us to value love and cast a discerning eye over finances. This is an air/water Trine that accents mental, emotional and economic stability can be achieved and employed, especially when raising consciousness for (mass) healing. Certain close relationships could have taken a knock this week, but take heart; a 't' square between the Gemini Moon and the current Mars/Venus opposition requires kindness, compassion, and a balance between those combined want's and/or personal requirements, so that all parties get their need’s met. 

In light of the exaltation of Venus in Pisces accenting universal love, am also sharing a rather timely quote from my precious Guru, His Holiness, Dalai Lama (whose name means an Ocean of Wisdom!)

"The human capacity to care for others isn’t something trivial or something to be taken for granted. Rather, it is something we should cherish. Compassion is a marvel of human nature, a precious inner resource, and the foundation of our well-being and the harmony of our societies. If we seek happiness for ourselves, we should practice compassion: and if we seek happiness for others, we should also practice compassion." ~> HHDL _(<3)_

"Precious, sublime bodhicitta:
May it arise in those in whom it has not arisen,
May it never fail where it has arisen
May it go on increasing, further and further!"

_(♥)__(♥)__(♥)__(♥)__(♥)__(♥)__(♥)__(♥)__(♥)__(♥)_

Medicine Buddha Moon ~ ♉ ~ Jan 2012

☆•*¨*•.¸¸❤☾☼ ☽❤¸¸.•*¨*•☆☆
Today’s MEDICINE BUDDHA MOON is exalted in TAURUS (also the sign of the Buddha’s birth); and with Guru Jupiter as the restorative Moon’s right hand companion, celestial healing properties abound. Good time to connect to (inner) Guru, as well as earth and stabilise ideas, projects AND relationships. Make positive adjustments now and prepare for fulfilment around a very creative full Moon Feb 7th :)) _(♥)_

Chinese New Year of the Water Dragon 2012

Aquarius is an intellectual air sign, accenting the power of the mind; it also signifies hopes & wishes. So while the New Aquarius Moon at 7:39amGMT on January 23rd, heralds the Chinese New Year of the Yang ‘Water Dragon’, now is the time to set the intention – the inscrutable Dragon can bestow wealth and fertility ~> best be mindful of what we wish for (& note how the Dragon holds the wish-fuliflling gem)!

As both Spirit Sun & sensitive Moon make a challenging aspect to Jupiter, planet of expansion, but a helpful one to innovative Uranus, such symbolism reminds us to watch expectations whilst in the midst of dramatic change.

Calling in (Dharmapalas) protectors now ~> _(♥)_ 
   

Wishing you all a Very HAPPY NEW YEAR of the WATER DRAGON!

PS: Chinese New Year is not the same at Losar, Tibetan New Year, which is one month later in February :) _(♥)_ 

From Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche's, "Ruling Your World" :

 The dragon is sometimes shown holding the jewel of auspiciousness. This is the enlightened heart and mind of the king and queen. With the wisdom of the dragon, we discover that the *Rigden and ourselves are the same. Our wisdom, compassion, and courage are no longer a myth. Once we possess this jewel, our life becomes blessed. Because of our openness and precision, causes and conditions come together naturally, like the elements, to create success and accomplishment.  Rigden: “Possessor of the family.” Embodiment of basic goodness. The name given to the twenty-five enlightened rulers of the legendary kingdom of Shambhala.

Love & thanks to Lobsang Gyasto for beautifully painted dragon _(♥)_

Thanks too Awakening Mind blog for fabulous Sakyong Rinpoche quote_(♥)_

Kalachakra Peace Mandala ~> Full Cancer Moon 2012

His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama, currently finishing his 32nd KALACHAKRA (time-wheel) for WORLD PEACE. _(♥)_ This time the beautifully complex Kalachakra mandala, depticting the cosmos in relation to mind & body, is built in Bodhgaya (the place where Buddha achieved enlightenment) to culminate over this full Cancerian Moon on the 8/9th January.

From the astrological point of view this is an insightful Moon, at home in 18 degrees of Cancer, indicating an emotional family affair balancing karmic conditions. Dealing with the past over this full moon can build stronger foundations for both, career and home; with boundaries defined one is freer one to move ahead.

While reflecting the winter light of the consolidating Capricorn Sun, our evocative Cancer Moon makes her most helpful aspect to dynamic Mars, in purifying Virgo (who is slowing down to go retrograde on the 24th, just as the elegant & energetic, inscrutable Water Dragon makes HER entrance with a new Aquarian Moon on the 23rd (water element is feminine:))! NOW is the time to take care of heart-mind and body and detox after Yule’s excess.

♥ ~> am still on a meditation retreat and will be back online with the Dragon!

☆•*¨*•.¸¸❤☾ 2☼12 ☽❤¸¸.•*¨*•☆☆

_/\_♥ ૐ AWAKEN! ~> GIVE THANKS _/♥\_ ~> REST IN THE HEART-MIND ♥ ~>☼ BLESS & TRANSFORM! :) _/\_♥ ૐ  

Wishing everyone a VERY happy, loving, & blessed 2012 ~>…& beyond..!   

Thanking all for continued shared love, inspiration & support. ‘The Digital Rainbow Tribe Cyber Sangha’ shines a brilliant light of intelligence from an ever-evolving spiritual heart ~> like brilliant stars in the sky, each gem radiating in one delightful universe  _/♥\_  May 2012 be THE year we bring heart-mind into balance with awareness & compassionate wisdom, to be of greater positive effect for all sentient beings and our environment.

To help achieve this celestially obliged objective, a first quarter moon ties into the New Year. In Tibetan Buddhism a first quarter moon is attributed to Sangye Menla, Medicine Buddha. Today (and tomorrow, the 1st) we perform the healing practice (with mantra “Tayatha Om Bekanze Bekanze Maha Bekanze Rasa Sammut Gate Soha”) while the emotive Moon grows in dynamic Aries, sign of the determined Ram; in square to Spirit Sun in realistic Capricorn, orienting and initiating active strength and courage, our collective life-force can be positively charged through the realisation of self in relation to the greater whole. Life is vast and we all play a valued and connected part in exploring such boundless infinity ~> with each moment a miracle in the unfolding of perfect beauty.

At the stroke of midnight GMT, the sensitive Moon allies to Uranus, inspiring planet of generational wishes, flashes of insight, and altruistic intention – as well as portending dramatic surprise that electrifies and sparks a party into action. It’s worth bearing in mind that, from the esoteric astrological viewpoint, Uranus is the hierarchical ruler of Aries, and according to Alice A. Bailey “Aries, the Inaugurator, is rendered ineffective on the Earth through the organising potency of Uranus”;  which I interpret as selfish individual aggression heeding to (magical) social constructs, thus generating an intelligent use of the human mind.

This truly is a healing Moon, also challenging the intense combination of a Sun conjunct Pluto, to let go and release all that is no longer viable for healing to take place. The powerful Sun Pluto raises passion, insisting the transformation of the old and outmoded is inevitable; this Capricorn conjunction is also currently next to asteroid Hygeia, symbolising a rejuvenation of medicine, sanitation and fitness.

Regular readers may recall how Dharma Stars previously noted healing is one of 2012’s main astrological features. I would also like to highlight the ongoing Uranus Pluto Square demanding transformation within innovation (according to Astrid Fallon); mind-science and mind-training are also part of 2012’s characteristics .  Starting with the New Year’s Eve Medicine Buddha Moon, astral therapy continues with motivating Mars in restorative Virgo for the first six months, about about to go retrograde on the 24^th January for three and a half months until 14 of April. Remember how Mars is the exoteric ruler of the Aries Moon; and, as we enter this incredibly hyped year, the first major applying aspect is from quick-silver Mercury in square to the feminine Virgo Mars, it’s as though womanly wiles provide a seriously swift remedial key. Mercury in Sagittarius has also returned to the very same 20 degrees where it was at the start of the last Mercury retrograde! Think back to late November and note how a certain healing vision/action is already on the road to a resolution; by following perfect intuition, doing the right thing at the right time, healing self, healing others, healing the planet.     

For the first time in ages all planets are going forward as we enter this iconic year, meaning it’s easier to visualise where we are heading.  Where we are now, however, is at this serious point of transformational action, as indicated by the Uranus Pluto Square. Few will escape 2012’s fast-moving ever-changing events. This is because both Uranus and Pluto are ‘generational’ planets, influencing great swathes of time. This current Uranus-Pluto square will continue in effect until 2015; and while the roots of this cycle lie in the mid-60s’, there is another cycle between Saturn and Pluto that began in the early-80’s, which also involves the evolution of our collective Spirit, also accenting the transformation of our socio-economic structure; Saturn now at home in balanced Libra (retrograde from Feb 8th until just past Summer Solstice) internalises the karmic lesson to come from the heart. 

More cosmic indication that healing is paramount during 2012 : (1) the passage of a retrograde Venus in front of the Gemini Sun (ruled by diverse Mercury) in June, adding worth and self-love to all aspects of helpful mind-training (lojong). (2) The eclipses that cross the Sagittarius-Gemini axis activate the healthy life of soul; and in June, the lunar eclipse also squares the Virgo Mars, just as it did late November and again 10^th December – mind/health/communication issues could be repeated until resolution later in this year.  (3) Jupiter, planet of religion, teaching and travel, moves into Gemini showing one needs to be curious and versatile in order to grow.

Yet while I have focused mainly upon the healing qualities of Mercury, and the two signs it exoterically rules, Gemini and Virgo, for 2012, there are plenty of other qualities for such multi-faceted celestial symbols, such as intellectual pursuits or our neighbourly connections, communication, retail, and/or travel. Any or all of these topics are subject to influence throughout 2012.  Concentrate upon the healing aspect and boost the (collective) immune system during the coming year, so by this time next year we will be in better shape to embrace what will be perhaps the largest mass meditation the globe will ever experience, at the 2012 Winter Solstice.

Meanwhile take each day at a time. Know that astrology is but one aspect of looking at the world during this exciting year of the Dragon; Meditation also provides stability, calm, and very special insight. I shall be talking more about the magical vibration of meditation, trance and prayer, as oceanic Neptune enters mystical Pisces on February 3^rd, with a talk at the Astrological Lodge of London Theosophical Society, 50 Gloucester Place, London W1, at 7pm on Monday January 30^th, where it would be lovely to see you!:)

Until then, I will be on retreat. Have a VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR! And to embody the Aries Uranus “Every day, think as you wake up, today I am fortunate to be alive, I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it. I am going to use all my energies to develop myself, to expand my heart out to others; to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. I am going to have kind thoughts towards others, I am not going to get angry or think badly about others. I am going to benefit others as much as I can.”
― Dalai Lama XIV

With thanks & love to Bill Brouard Visual Alchemy for "In Angel's Hands" and to other unknown artists for space-mind and medicine Buddha.

2012 ~> :) _/\_♥ ૐ

Winter Solstice 2011 _(♥)_ New Capricorn Moon Xmas Eve

Whichever spiritual holiday you celebrate, Christmas, Solstice, Saturnalia, Osiris, Mithras, Hannuka or Kwanga (or all for good measure! :)) this darkest part of year (in northern hemisphere) is often deeply emotional, when resting and taking a good look back provides insight and rejuvination. With 2012 just around the corner, promising to be a dramatic year, light-workers and dharma practitioners alike will want to be in the best possible form, mindful and aware, in order to generate the heart-mind's precious bodhicitta and ride the waves of love, beaming radiant light. 

Ready yourself now to leave the past behind and release painful or psychic baggage into the void, so that we never have to deal with whatever bugs us  again (at most not for another seven lifetimes!). For the Capricorn stars watching over this WINTER SOLSTICE, at 5:30 on the morning of the 22nd December, present the perfect opportunity to stop and assess, in order to liberate, heal, and transform all that no longer serves our Divine purpose. The return of Sunlight (in the northern hemisphere) signals the ‘New Light King’ is reborn, providing Spirit with a strong ‘Seed of Consciousness’, that is nourished and nurtured by realising certain ultimate truths. 

Winter Solstice (still aligned with Galagtic Centre AND Pluto for one more year!) is swiftly followed by a new Capricorn Moon on Xmas Eve (2 degrees of disciplined Capricorn at 18:06 on the 24th December) when, due to the baring of expansive Jupiter - at station to go forward in tropical 0degrees Taurus - spiritual/material growth is put into perspective, as well as the emergence of practical and personal value developing into something much more solid and obvious towards the Spring Equinox. Until then, am thanking our lucky stars that Jupiter, celestial Santa Clause, is beginning to pull out of his endlessly long opposition to Saturn in late Libra (tipping the balance of finances, housing, govts for the past couple of years); A recovery of some sort may well be a welcome relief as we cross the symbolic threshold into 2012 and enter THE year of a zillion fantastic predictions. These predictions mostly centre upon next year's winter solstice. At which one wonders what will we be doing this time next year? Watching ufos from Mayan pyramids? ;) Tuning into ascended Atlantians? ;) Or just plain turning off the fear-factor? :)) I predict one thing is certain: Winter Solstice 2012 is going to be the largest Global meditation the world has ever seen - or felt. 

So this, and the coming Summer Solstice on June 21st are a kind of run-through to excercise our ability to tune into 'the field', the noosphere, to restore human faith, love and compassion. Before a Solstice (the same is for summer solstice (in southern hemisphere)) meditation, prayers, ceremony or practice, be aware that when the Sun is at the Solstice standstill (Sol = Sun, stice = still) the connection between Spirit Sun and Mother Earth  creates a momentary 3-day 'gap', just like 'the gap' in meditation which happens in-between the ‘out breath’, and before the ‘in breath’. This is the cosmic pause in which we rest, and the very pause from which we stop past conditioning and karmic habits to release painful negativity, before inhaling once again life-giving goodness that comes from air’s life-sustaining prana. Take note to consciously breathe in positivity and exhale anything unhelpful - You’ll be surprised at how much stronger and positive you will feel, instinctively able to shine throughout 2012_(♥)_ Dharma practioners will no doubt even flip the cosmic coin and practice tonglen. ;)

Many thanks to unknown artists for beautiful healing light and blue lotus magical white spin_(♥)_

Solstice ♥ Lama Tsongkhapa ♥ DAKINI day & Hannuka Dec'11

Today is an important day in the Buddhist calendar: not only it is DAKINI day, with Sun and Moon in the last 'harmonious' aspect of a waning lunation, accenting a feminine kind of Sagittarian wisdom; But it is also Lama Tzongkhapa day, honouring the 14th Century Tibetan founder of the Galugpa sect, which His Holiness, the Dalai Lama heads.

And it’s also Hannuka! :))

So I thought I'd share Dakini VajraYogini's beautiful mandala, the timeless tetrahedron: a multi-cultural, multi-symbolic six-pointed star.

Also worthy of ASTRO NOTE is how love Goddess Venus & responsible Saturn are sill in that tight celestial embrace called 'mutual reception', only now the Moon is with Saturn, in harmonious sextile to the wise Saggie almost SOLSTICE Sun; what we learn now can make our LOVE more REAL. :)) _(♥)_´¯`•.¸¸.•L❀VEly•´¯`•.¸¸.♥ 

thx to artzotec.com for fabulous Mandala _(♥)_

Mutual Reception ~> Venus Capricorn square Saturn Libra _(♥)_ Dec'11

Whenever the love goddess Venus is in responsible Capricorn (as she is now), relationships are prone to the no-nonsense 5-year-plan kind of commitment, knowing that time is relative, but practice makes perfect. Beautiful Venus in earthy Capricorn can bolster a sense of accomplishment and achievement; and as she squares up to Saturn at 27 Libra - to be exact on Sunday 18th Dec, we get the chance to exercise a double dose of the Venus-Saturn discipline: stabilising the 'heart-mind’. Traditionally, this is a challenge as Saturn & Capricorn present boundaries and obstacles, sometimes even revealing when certain relations have run their course. But because the two planets, Venus and Saturn are in 'mutual reception', (i.e. their rulers are connected, because karmic Saturn rules Capricorn, and Venus is at home in partnership-orientated Libra) this square can also symbolise a pragmatic long-lasting love by getting over the fear, being very realistic about consequence, and, most importantly, the practice of breathing into the heart centre, in order to be balanced during Saturnalia’s Solstice party weekend of peace and harmony. _(♥)_

Image and invocation from http://www.psychicsophia.com of Goddess White Tara, Venus to Tibetans, who helps overcome all obstacles  _(♥)_

Invocation of Tara ~> _(♥)_

Praise to Tara

The Great Mother and provider of all

Energy supreme

In the boundless universe

Star flashing in the heavens

Eyes of lightening

Lotus-born

Tear of the compassionate cosmos

Help me to heal others

Help me to heal myself

Face like a million moons

Full and bright

Filled with peace and love

Goddess of mercy

We call upon you

In this our  hour of need

Goddess of all that is right and true

Scattering blue lotus petals

Laughing with joy and love

Most giving one

Oh perfect crystal mother

Help us to heal others

Help us to heal ourselves

All the gods worship you

Great Mother of the universe

Songs fill your sky

Demons and evil spirits

Are driven away by your joy

Purify the land

Help me to heal others

Help me to heal myself

You are the great destroyer

Of fear, of failure

Of oppression & disease

Lift the burden of helplessness

Empower us to see potential

Radiant and joyful Goddess

Dancing across the face

Of this troubled planet

Healing as your lotus feet

Tread the lands about us

Oh great protector

You who call upon all the powers

All the gods

All the people of the many worlds

Help me to heal others

Help me to heal myself

You burn as holy fire

Goddess Tara

Purify us in thy flaming embrace

Joy replaces fear

As our doubts disappear

Blissful Goddess

Virtuous, honest and peaceful

As I become you

The ills of the worlds

Run off me as water drops

Greatest Goddess

Upon whom all the gods and peoples rely

Earthspirit mother

Cover and protest me

Your form my armor

Fill me and soothe me

Fill me with calm and a will to act

Help me to heal others

Help me to heal myself

Come Great Mother of all life!

Here is Tara the red, to the South!

Here is Tara the yellow , to the North!

Here is Tara the black, to the West!

Here is Tara the green, to the East!

And here within me

Is Maha Tara, primal Tara, ultimate Tara

Shining as a star in my heart!

Om tare tuttare ture soha!   Tara!

Help me to heal others

Help me to heal myself

Om tare tuttare ture soha!

_(♥)_