Full Moon in Virgo ~> The Great Prayer Festival & DAY OF MIRACLES

25th February 20013 ~> *•.¸(*•.¸♥¸.•*´)¸.•*´

Full Moon 7Virgo @20:26gmt (15:26EST)

The Great Prayer Festival & DAY OF MIRACLES

This is a karma multiplied day (positive or negative) x 100 million.

Known in Tibetan Buddhism as ‘Chotrul Duchen’, this Monday we make light and butter-lamp offerings during the first Full Moon of the year of the Black Water Snake, to commemorate the final day of miraculous display by the Buddha, which has lasted 15 days since the new moon.

From the astrological point of view, the incredibly rare and deeply felt Pisces stellium includes Spirit Sun, boundless Neptune, shamanic Chiron, Dynamic Mars and Mercury, the heaven’s courier, all in the sign of the fishes; the celestial message is one of continued spiritual healing and profound sensitivity in the quest for perfection in body, speech and mind. At the Full Moon, all the planets are opposite the Virgo Moon, with Spirit Sun and wounded healer, Chiron, exactly spotlighting the Virgoan wisdom of the Divine Feminine.

We all have an intuitive and wise side to us, only some are more linear (left brain) masculine types and are, for whatever reason, fearful of the feminine’s perceptive depth and sensitivity, with its cyclic understanding and desire to be of service. At the same time as being giving and unconditional, the receptive feminine encourages us to enter the previously unknown through dance, meditation, prayer, play, yoga, tai chi, paint, and to take photographic works of art. We all have a right side of the brain that encompasses the instinctive ability to be more holistic and, when we do use it we become kinder and more compassionate towards others (often as a consequence of seeing the suffering and stress inflicted upon the world (dukka)). Now, looking around at the damage being done to the feminine the world over, it is obvious to see. More than ever we need to correct this imbalance and bring the world and ourselves into harmony. In order to do so, we must stop inflicting harm towards our sensitive side, be it to Mother Earth, woman herself, her children, or even ourselves.

As consciousness aligns with the sub-conscious, male and female become equal, we realise our truth and well-balanced potential, able to manifest and work with the heart-mind’s wisdom and compassion, so that all sentient beings are free from suffering.

Be aware this full moon could be an emotional affair. Do be kind to self and others; get grounded by tuning into the softer and feminine side of self and can create miracles, that can even heal physically, mentally and spiritually on a phenomenal scale _/♥\_


Image of lotus light offerings by Olivier Adam~ with thanks_/♥\_
http://www.dharmaeye.com/

If you would like to know how the time of miracles manifests in your horoscope please contact me, with love & blessings, Laura _/♥\_

Mercury Retrograde in Pisces *•.¸(*•.¸♥¸.•*´)¸.•*´ Feb-March 2013

Mercury, planet of communication and information is currently in oceanic Pisces, the sign that delves into spirit’s unchartered realms to stir the imagination to think in poetic visuals and phantasmagorical dreams. Mercury is now already slowing down to go retrograde next week on the 24^th February at 19 Pisces.  Mercury will go backwards for three weeks, join our Heart-Star, Sun, on March 4^th at 14Pisces, and go forward March 18^th at 5Pisces.

Pisces is also the sign of forgiveness and compassion, sacrifice and renunciation, as well as deep emotions and spirituality, sensing and tuning into unseen collective undercurrent that can engulf and even overwhelm a sensitive psyche, especially in situations in which we have no personal control.
During this three/four week period no less than six other planets will join Mercury in Pisces, including Sun and Moon. Such a rare configuration has the potential to give rise to deep and powerful feelings, in addition to dreams and visions that are capable of connecting us to the sacred Oneness of life.  Take note of subtle sensitivities in meditation and/or current dreams containing incredible symbology, for they may be clairvoyant and /or pertinent to profound spiritual healing. 

Activities which encourage a positive Divine union include yoga, tai-chi, chi-gung, dance, music, prayer, mantra and meditation, trance, hypnotism – and all endeavours that dissolve ego so that merging with the great Oneness is possible. Alcohol and drugs, even prescription ones, are substances that can also take you out of this world, but best avoided as toxins confuse and convolute subtle (and sometimes not so subtle) psychic body energy, as well as disturb the pineal gland, which is ruled by Neptune, the planet linked to Pisces.  

Looking after our pineal gland, a major component of the all-seeing, visionary third eye chakra is paramount to our emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing, especially nowadays with the constant exposure to electromagnetic fields which disrupt the mind-body-spirit pathways. So my advice during this mega Pisces time is (for practitioners of dream yoga) to make sure that we get enough healthy sleep. And while planet of communication, Mercury, is retrograde it could well be wise to steer clear of wi-fi (yes, be brave, and switch off at night) and disconnect from unseen frequencies and resonance that negatively affect the Pineal gland, which secrets all-important healing Melatonin during the night. Melatonin is also ruled by Neptune, ruler of sleep, which is now conjunct the wounded healer Chiron. Since 2011 Neptune and Chiron have been coursing the heavens together in watery Pisces suggesting that we need to heal our connection to unseen and previously known phenomena (such as electromagnetism and the structure of water). In 2012 British scientists suggested switching off phones and other electronic communication devices at least an hour before bedtime, so not to disrupt the Melatonin so vital for night-time repair to the body; doing so also protects the delicate and subtle hormonal system which is key to Kundalini. 

In Tibetan Buddhism we use the technique of Neptunian visualisationin meditation for many reasons. One of the most important is that by focusing upon the visualisation (with the third eye) we can transform our understanding of duality, to see that life is all Maya, an illusion, a dream that has relative joy and beauty but no need of attachment to the chains of ego, and thereby release karmic bonds to the wild Samsaric Ocean, associated astrologically with Pisces, Neptune and the 12^th house.

11th Feb ~ LOSAR ~ 2013 Year of the Black Water Snake

Prevalent in the mythology engrained in so many cultures, the Snakes’ dominant theme is how they represent hidden knowledge and intuitive feminine wisdom. Ultimately Snakes symbolise a mystical transmutation of spirit and, in the process, one sheds an outworn skin so that one is renewed to ascend in truth and overcome duality to heal and liberate the earth-bound human condition. Indeed, snakes entwined around the caduceus, Healing Mercury’s rod is used globally to signal strong medicine at work – you see them at almost every pharmacy in the world.

From the astrological point of view, snakes and serpents are associated with the magical and secretive, often hidden Scorpio, the 8th house, and the planet Pluto, because the snakes’ power of rejuvenation has the potential to bestow remarkable wisdom, a wisdom that comes from utilising resources that help one survive going to the depths and back.

From the spiritual perspective, in Yoga-Tantra we acknowledge the healing potential of subtle body psychic energies, and work with a three-coiled serpent, ‘Kundalini Shakti’ – a powerful feminine energy that resides at the base of the spine. When ‘serpent power’ is activated though inner-heat (normally over the age of 50 for a woman), like a snake it awakens, uncoils and raises powerful psychic energy up through the subtle body’s central channel that carries life-enhancing prana (a.k.a. chi, bio-energy, rLung) the ‘sushumna’ (one of 3 main nadis/channels), and into the crown chakra, so that one enters into a divine union with bliss and emptiness.

‘Serpent Power’ also descends, returning to the root, grounding the elemental basis. I make this sound relatively easy; but while there are the rare few who become instantaneously ‘realised’, either through transmission or other conductors, it can take ordinary beings years – lifetimes - of practice to surrender to the truth of our divine Buddha nature in it pure luminous presence. Sullied by discursive thoughts, we often sense the need to purify the ego and clear obscured karmic blocks (klehsas) that manifest within (as well as externally) and around the central channel, so that Kundalini can freely rise towards our innate enlightened Nirvana. Yet, while most are still taking baby steps towards maintaining the clear light nature of mind, those who have experienced Kundalini rising will tell you that its nothing to mess around with, it can be like a powerful explosion of phosphorescing light that can at once excite and overwhelm, that quickly sheds the old paradigm, which is why the inexperienced should always surround themselves with spiritual friends; developing Kundalini require meditation and calm.

Not that I want to discourage anyone from working with Kundalini, but do so with care and consideration; so here’s to 2013 being a year in the influence of the Serpent Goddess, and keeping emotions and passions such as desire and aversion under control by being mindful of unconditional love-wisdom and compassion in all eventualities.

The image to illustrate this post is a photo I took years ago, when visiting the Manassala Snake Temple in Kerala, Southern India. This Temple is run solely by women devoted to snakes, who are covered in verbuti (sacred ash). The Temple houses many many snakes, including the Raja Cobra. The king snake curled up contentedly listening to the priestess sing songs according to the Nakshatra (mansion of the Moon) of the visitor to whom she was singing to. In my case she sang songs to Punavarsu; it was a truly magical experience.

I’m also including this personal illustration because the black snake stone sculptures are all covered in bright yellow Turmeric. Interestingly, the Feng Shui for this year emphasises the number 5, which is Yellow in colour, governing the central area of any house or room. This means that energy concentrates around the middle of buildings; to encourage a positive vibration place a 6-rod metal wind chime in the centre of your house or home. Who knows, doing so may even encourage ‘Shakti Power ‘to flow circulate more freely in your body and around your home :)_/♥\_ I have placed our wind chime already.

If you would like to know how your personal horoscope constellates in the year of the Snake, please get in touch for info and rates : 

~ With Losar blessings for a Happy Tibetan New Year ~
from Laura _/♥\_

Losar 2140 ~~~:> Year of the Black Water Snake

9th Feb ’13 ~~~:> Waving ‘goodbye’ to the wonderful Water Dragon (not to be seen again for another 60 years), whose authentic presence reminded us of the power of our own innate goodness, before the Year of the female Black Water Snake comes in tomorrow, 10th Feb, with the New Moon at 21Aquarius at 7:20amGMT (2:20amEST). This Snake year bestows the ability to renew through transforming and healing deeply wounded (collective) emotions with intuitive and insightful feminine wisdom.

To add hope, faith and strength, in the Tibetan system of a sixty-year cycle this year of the Black Water Snake is called 'Namgyal', meaning 'Totally Victorious'. At this new moon we also celebrate and commence Buddha's 15 days of miracles (siddhis), culminating on the 25th February with the full Moon, when karma is multiplied x 100,00,00.

From the planet’s point of view, throughout 2013 the influential Uranus Pluto square urges us to maintain our sights upon the light and keep our altruistic intention, for all beings to be happy, in sharp focus. Even if/when ploughing through darker moments in the midst of transformation, be our problems physical, psychological, or spiritual, we can still be like the sacred lotus in the lily pond: stable in our depth, yet not adhering to the muddy waters associated with afflicted emotions, therefore able to be in our experiential flow to stretch-up through the dense materialistic dross, to rise up and reach the light, and bathe in the beauty of the heavenly scented blossom of enlightenment_/♥\_

Happy 'Losar' Tibetan New Year 2140 on Feb 11th _/♥\_

And to Hindu friends, especially at this time of the Khumb Mela festival, wishing many blessings for Shivratri _/♥\_

Thx to unknown, for image of Buddha in Lotus pond _/♥\_

Dakini Day! Sun in Aquarius ~ Moon in Sagittarius _/✿\_ 5th Feb’13 ~>

‘The Lights ‘ (Sun & Moon) now share a dynamic and hopeful yang quality during this last Dakini Day of the Dragon Year, due to the broad-minded Sagittarian Moon harmonising with the altruistic and visionary Aquarian Sun, the Goddess generates optimism, clarity and enthusiasm.
Yet no one ‘aspect’ between a pair of planets dictates the sole quality of any moment. And without deflating the confidence these two energetic and motivated signs working together can bring, there are always other factors to take into account which can influence the day, such as the current Mercury Mars, Neptune and Chiron, conjunction in the early degrees of in Pisces. This latter combination of planets makes it easier to connect to the deeply emotional undercurrents that pulsate through ‘the field’ of the collective (un)consciousness, galvanizing the spiritual warrior to be compassionate and forgiving; Pisces encourages one to tap into the heart of the Divine, with a deep vibration that is wonderful for meditation and spiritual practice, yoga, dance and poetry.

So while Spirit Sun is still in the sign of the water-bearer, and has yet to meet up with the new Aquarian Moon (Feb 10th), it is in a watery Piscean fashion that we now find ourselves flowing. With a series of potentially incredible alignments now forming in Samsara’s cosmic sea, a stellium of six planets culminates at the next full moon, 26th Feb, in the sign of the Fishes, potentially bringing untold healing and awareness through unseen means, such as the power of prayer and an unshakable faith in the face of uncertainty, confusion or sacrifice. Bear in mind that personal psychic boundaries could become very porous, allowing access for the feelings of others to pervade, influence and sway in a non-spoken manner. Mercury, planet of the mind, information and communication, will also be going retrograde in Pisces; when going with flow means tuning into the universal heart-mind and raising Bodhicitta, i.e. the wish for all beings to achieve full enlightenment ♥☼:☽❤¸¸.•*¨*•☆☆

Image ~> Thx to Visual Alchemy for Honouring the Goddess _/♥\_

Sun in Aquarius ~ ☉♒□☽♏ ~ Last Quarter Moon in Scorpio

3rd Feb’13 ~ Tara Moon

During the last quarter moon – the time astrology calls ‘a crisis of conscience’ (because our principles are called into focus), we begin to clear and prepare for the oncoming New Moon. Obstacles encountered today can be overcome by being cooperative and concentrated, utilising the clarity of the altruistic Aquarian Sun, in combination with the insightful (and often secretive) Scorpio Moon.

Because of the ability to remain emotionally detached - yet profoundly engaged - this arrangement of Sun and Moon often gives the Spiritual Warrior shamanic healing abilities. The challenge now is to use this perceptive awareness wisely, so that all beings are happy.

This is why we, in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, now call upon Tara, the Great Mother Liberator, the Goddess who wants all beings to be free from suffering. The ensuing everlasting happiness Tara bestows, through the development of compassion and wisdom, we experience spiritual liberation, free from being bound to ego’s desires and aversions. From the more material point of view, honouring the Goddess can even release one from the freedom of want, hunger and fear, as well as discover the freedom of speech and worship; to experience all this is to be truly liberated.

_/✿\_Om Tara Tutara Ture Soha _/✿\_

If you would like to know how this time of 'engaged perception' constellates within you, I am giving a special 'Losar' rate for the Tibetan New Year of Black Snake, Feb 11th, please contact me for details _/♥\_

Many thx to unknown artist for this beautiful Green Tara _/♥\_

☆~☽✪☾~☆ Imbolc Blessings ☆~☽✪☾~☆ Jan'13

1st – 7th Feb ~>

Imbolc, also known as Candlemas, is a Solar festival celebrating the first light returning (in the northern hemisphere). As such, it is a sacred festival of honouring the Light of consciousness; with the Sun in Aquarius it unifies Light workers in world service.

Thus the Western tradition now venerates the return of youthful hope and fertility, revering the Goddess Brigitte, patroness of poets, crafts, smiths, healing and midwives _/✿\_

This ‘cross-quarter’ Aquarian Fire festival marks the middle of a season; and has the quality of ‘Fixed Air’ with its determined call to purify body, speech and mind. It’s now time to spring clean, (and get ready for next week’s Tibetan New Year of the Black Water Snake!) before gathering with friends and shooting the airy Aquarian breeze.

Yet with Spirit Sun now in hard square to the taskmaster Saturn, the importance of keeping a healthy balance of work and socialising is paramount. Whilst being with kindred spirits is a way to keep body and soul together, it may well be the serious business of a labour of love that keeps one busy over the next few days. _/♥\_

Purification Mandala from the Family of Light ~ with thx _/♥\_

Jupiter Direct ~> Jan'13

Depending upon where Gemini is in your horoscope, all kinds of projects/ideas/relationships/situations now gain greater perspective and protection. Some could even sense growth and/or liberation; as freedom-loving Jupiter begins to go forward in the sign of the twins, boosting the impetus to expand through communication and knowledge. Dualistic Gemini reveals the play of opposites: yin and yang, male and female, creative and receptive; Jupiter here quickly gets to the heart of truth, however easy or difficult that may be to digest and process.

And for the next couple of days the feminine strategist, Pallas Athena, conjuncts Uranus, planet of dramatic change and awareness @5-6-7 Aries; look to this point in your chart to see where intuitive insights now create a surprise change of ideas and/or direction.

If you would like to know how this time of truth constellates within you, I am giving a special Losar rate for the Tibetan New Year of Black Snake, please contact me for details _/♥\_

ૐ _/♥\_ thx to Visual Alchemy for 'Surprise' artwork x

_/♥\_ ONE LOVE _/♥\_ Full Moon in Leo ~> Jan'13

26th-27th January @4:38gmt, 23:38est ~>

Our last FULL MOON of the Dragon year plays out with a heart-centred Leo Moon, positively aglow with LOVE. It’s the kind of all-encompassing love that radiates joy, compassion, kindness, and equanimity: qualities known in Buddhism as ‘The Four Immeasurables’.

This infinite and heart-liberating love can be given freely, without strings or attachment. In fact, with the 7degrees altruistic Aquarian Sun and full Leo Moon in a hard ‘T’ square aspect to disciplined Saturn, it is the Spiritual Warrior’s responsibility to transform romantic love, and the love of friends and family, into a sublime and sacred love – with an all-embracing reverence for all sentient beings. Doing so also includes loving oneself, which may now even entail clearing difficult obstacles that prevent one from fully and freely loving, such as fear, doubt, jealousy or obsession - all of which is profoundly rewarding. _/♥\_

☼ Progressive Astro-Tech: The humanitarian and future-orientated Aquarian Sun is opposite the playful and generous Leo Moon; and both are also in good aspect to broad-minded Jupiter and innovative Uranus. These are freedom loving planets that highlight individual ideas and volition. It’s worth noting that Jupiter is currently at station, about to go forward on the 30th January, after four and a half months of back-tracking in Gemini. It’s also interesting that the very point at which expansive Jupiter now stations is the same at which Venus, planet of love, retrograded back to during her momentous awakening of the Divine Feminine last June, at 6-7-8 Gemini, in the sign that informs, transmits and mentally processes. And as ‘Cosmic Guru’ Jupiter now compounds our lessons in love, it also accents our reflective mind, encouraging us to put insights into practice with tolerance, flexibility, and heart-felt optimism, so we can move forward into the year of the Black Water Snake, on February 10th, with confidence and clarity. _/♥\_ ☼:☽❤¸¸.•*¨*•☆☆

Thx to unknown artist for beautiful dragon & moon maiden _/♥\_

Inauguration Guru Rinpoche Day ~> Jan 21st 2013

Most Auspicious Guru Rinpoche Day! _/❤\_

Spirit Sun in humanitarian Aquarius & emotive Moon in communicative Gemini, who is currently conjunct Jupiter, the zodiac’s cosmic Guru, making this a very special day to practice dharma, connect to the (inner) teacher, and give thanks for all the loving kindness and wisdom shown.

The lights – Sun & Moon – are in stimulating Air signs today, bringing people together and at the same time accenting the free-thinking individual heart-mind that is bursting with fresh new altruism. Giving such uniqueness the space it requires to grow and blossom within the greater whole celebrates the kind of integral freedom which liberates the ego; all the while the very same selflessness unites mind, body and spirit.

When the Moon is with Jupiter in Gemini, it’s a beautiful time for being with kindred spirits, shooting the breeze, and realising just how blessed we are _/❤\_

Healing Action ~> Medicine Buddha Moon Jan 2013

19th Jan 2013 ~> This 8th day of our last moon cycle in the Dragon year is a First Quarter Medicine Buddha Tara Moon, considered to have exceptional healing qualities that can quickly help one to overcome obstacles, be the problem physical, psychological or psychic.

This particular first quarter urges the Spiritual Warrior to watch the mind and remain brave and confident when dealing with the root of the three poisons: ignorance, aversion and attachment. Patience and practicality are required with each step upon the path of transformation, to keep body, mind and spirit in balance. Multi-choice developments come soon enough, as the Sun moves into Aquarius this evening, bringing with it the exciting, shiny and new _/❤\_

May all being be healthy and happy to enjoy life to the full! _/❤\_

Thanks to Wildmind for Medicine Buddha illustration _/❤\_

Weighty Skies ~> 5 planets in Capricorn Jan 2013

With no less than 5 heavenly bodies now in Capricorn, a weighty stellium currently holds the heavens’ sway as Spirit Sun conjuncts messenger Mercury; and Goddesses, loving Venus and loyal Juno, unite with powerful Pluto in karmic Capricorn _(❤)_

Sun & Mercury suggests having the discipline to focus upon accomplishment. Check degrees 24-25-26-27 Capricorn in your chart to see what really requires concentration and structure, and encourage positive tangible results.

As for relationship orientated Venus, Juno & Pluto, consider how karmic Capricorn's hierarchical ruler is Venus, cosmically mirroring Saturn's exaltation in Libra: Inner peace and love are therefore Capricorn’s ‘highest’ motivation. And the hooved Capricorn mountain-climbing goat also has a fishes' tail, most necessary to flow freely through Samsara's choppy ocean in spiritual harmony.

This Capricorn Venus now conjuncts profound Pluto, planet of death and rebEARTH, dramatically reminding how endings and death (metaphoric or real) can come in an instant. Intellectually understanding that something dies in order to be reborn doesn’t always alleviate the grief of death’s finality. Yet being reminded of death can prompt us to love fully and live life in truth. Now is the time to stop playing power-games and harness the immense command of Venus with Pluto (degrees 7-8-9-10 Capricorn) to transform the heart-mind, release fears of the unknown, and embrace all-consuming, compassionate LOVE ~> to become ONE in our flow AND create karmic brownie points by COMING FROM THE HEART _/❤\_

Breathe in LOVE & kindness ~> ❤
E-x-h-a-l-e the L-O-V-E & Kind n e s s ~> ❤ ❤ ❤

Thanks to unknown artist for the enlightening figure _/❤\_

New Moon in Capricorn _/\_11th January ‘13

Our first new moon of the year, at 19:43GMT, is also the final lunation of the remarkable Water Dragon year. As the Earthy Capricorn Sun and Moon are now in conjunction with the celestial courier, Mercury, heaven’s message is quite pragmatic and clear: stabilise to accomplish, practice to become efficient, and remain in the Dragon's 'Authentic Presence' ('wangthang' in Tibetan), your own personal 'power field', that is created by one's basic goodness.

Spirit Sun, emotive Moon, and communicative Mercury are also loosely conjoined to loving Venus, loyal Juno & transformational Pluto, all in the sign of the mountain-climbing Sea-Goat. It’s worth noting that in Esoteric astrology Venus is the hierarchical ruler of Capricorn; this means that even if involved in ambitious power play, the spiritual warrior must always come from the heart. There is, however, little time for comparison or distraction with so many planets in no-nonsense Capricorn. Focus and concentration are the order of this New Moon, which teaches us to prioritise and prepare to be mindfully aware of the nature of reality, one’s true nature, Buddha nature.

Fiery Mars in Aquarius still squares Capricorn’s traditional ruling planet, Saturn in secretive Scorpio; issues of trust, respect, and friendship could create crossed wires, which may mean actively putting boundaries into place ~> Erect the Vajra fence now to protect, keeping kindred dharma spirits close, and certain cheeky monkeys out of reach.

And seeing as this is a physical and practical moon sign, now is the time to look after the body, especially knees (in meditation), teeth (for chewing slowly), and/or skeletal structure for climbing the spiritual heights, all the while enjoying the view, especially when in mountain posture!

The next New Moon is February 10th, with Losar, Tibetan New Year of the Black Water Snake, February 11th.

Image of stupa from ‘The Treasury of Lives’ with thx _/❤\_

Dakini Day 7th Jan 2013 _/❤\_

Tomorrow’s feasting Dakini Day, 7th Jan, is most powerful for inner-work and lasting transformation, specifically by paying back karmic debts. Though the sign Scorpio is the moon in her detriment, this is actually a most perceptive moon sign when we can hone into our deepest and darkest negativities and cut-off the ego’s bind to attachment and self-grasping. Both the sharp Scorpio Moon (currently conjunct karmic Capricorn ruler, Saturn) and the accomplished Capricorn Sun are ‘Yin’ in nature, feminine and sensitive, astute and proficient. Use this personality pruning energy wisely, honour the Goddess, and prepare for the Capricorn New Moon on the 11th January; during this darkest Dakini Moon of the year, when one can free oneself from obstacles (to practice and enlightenment) and eliminate the root of ignorance.

Inspired by the image of a Tibetan Chödma (photographer unknown) wishing you all a good practice _/❤\_

Tara Moon~> 3rd Jan 2013

Just as the beginning of this lunation’s first quarter Solstice moon was laden with change, so too is this last quarter Moon in Libra also charged with the need to make adjustments. The Moon, currently opposite Uranus, is the main indicator of a challenging kind of change, which requires diplomacy, tact and discretion, especially when striving to achieve peace within oneself, as well as in relationship.

Luna’s light also forms a ‘Grand Air Trine’ with expansive Jupiter beaming high in the night sky in communicative Gemini, and active Mars in friendly Aquarius; the ‘Grand Trine’ tends to spark the intellect and make the mind versatile, making tonight an optimum time to socialise and actively seek out common bonds between friends, neighbours and partners, and to exchange ideas and altruistic visions of the future that can establish happiness and harmony. Sounds like an ideal start to the first weekend of 2013!

Image is Green Tara, the embodiment of all the Buddha’s compassionate activities, painted by Nepali Newari artist Shankar _/❤\_ with thx

Om Tara Tutare Ture soha _/❤\_

2013! In with a Leo Moon & LOVE ❤

❤♫❤♫❤♫.•*¨`*•.¸♥☼♥☼♥☼♥¸.•*¨`*•.♫❤♫❤
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* ░H░A░P░P░Y░ * ░N░E░W░ * ░Y░E░A░ R░ *
╚══════=════ ೋღ❤ღೋ ══════════╝
❤♫❤♫❤♫.•*¨`*•.¸♥☼♥☼♥☼♥¸.•*¨`*•.♫❤♫❤

Jan 1st @00:01 ~> At the stroke of midnight, the Moon will be in party-loving, heart-centred Leo! In mundane (political) astrology, the Moon represents ‘the people’; in warm and generous Leo, the sign of leadership, creativity and LOVE, La Luna’s influence encourages us to tap into our inner spiritual strength with the trust of a child, to stay positive, and welcome 2013 with a Lionheart _/❤\_

Wishing you oodles of fun and festive frolics! While the heavens also suggest we avoid negative drama, as the Moon is also at the apex of a ‘Thor’s Hammer’ formation, with the 'handle' being an applying square between surprising Uranus and communicative Mercury: insight is clearer when our excitement and/or performance is innocent and loving!

2013 is set to be another year themed with incredible transformation (and the ongoing Uranus Pluto square (through 2015)); good times roll more quickly in the second part of the year - when munificent Jupiter rocks into his sign of exaltation: Cancer (the same sign as our immensely powerful Full Xmas Moon:)).

Happy New Year to all my dear friends of Dharma Stars! _/❤\_
Personal note: I’ll be back online and ready for Astrology Consultations in a few days, LOVE, Laura XXX

The Spirit of Forgiveness ~> Full Moon in Cancer_/♥\_ Dec 2012

_/♥\_ 2012’s last Full Moon beaming 7Cancer at 10:20gmt tomorrow morning (5:20amEST, 14:50pm Delhi). Whilst living in the NOW, there’s always an element of nostalgia with historical and memorable Cancer, the sign which rules the Moon. As we look back over this momentous 2012: the once-in-a-lifetime Venus Transit, Mayan Solstice alignment, transformational Uranus-Pluto squares, not to mention the Diamond sparkling London Olympics and a search for the God Particle, we can see how far we have come in the combined awakening of the heart-mind.

Without sounding too dramatic, the heavens now suggest we have reached the point of awareness in ‘Unity Consciousness’ when we can release ourselves from the fear of mortality, heal deeply engrained negative emotions and, if you think that’s a tough mission call, take personal responsibility to play a unique part of the collective transformation. In other words nothing is going to change, unless we change as individuals. And that means dropping self-abuse along with any violence, anger or hatred, towards others; and living a life of loving-kindness and compassion. As the Sun is conjunct Pluto, planet of endings and beginnings, now is the time to make such a transition.

In many ways this Full Moon has the power to release the past in the spirit of forgiveness. With its’ ‘Grand Water Trine’ there’s a sense of completion, watching Spirit flowing through Samsara’s countless phases of cyclic life, death and rebirth, in order to maintain a Divine natural harmony, and to emerge from the emotional depths, lighter and much refreshed

With that, I wish you all a very happy Full Cancer Moon and a wonderful New Year. May all beings be Happy & Enlightened; and may our accomplishments be the most eminent attainments on the path: renunciation, compassion, unshakable faith and realization of the correct view _/♥\_

Image 'Full Moon Tracking' by Visual Alchemy, with thx _/♥\_

Grand Water Trine ~ Goddess of Compassion _/♥\_ Dec 2012

♥¸.•¨¯`•☆٠.•..•¨*☀☽✩☼
26:12:12 ~> Not yet full Boxing Night but beaming bright, La Luna multi-tasking in Gemini, and coming on strong with Earth Mother Ceres and Sacred Vesta. The GoddesseS are now opposite loving Venus & healing Mercury in hopeful Sagittarius, thus caring for loved ones, near & far, in body, speech and mind (in every which way shape and form); and the strong & full Moon growing in light, is to be exact on Friday 28th at 7Cancer (cardinal signs to the fore) @10:20GMT.

Luna forms AMAZING aspects as she culminates in creative Cancer; forming a Yin powered 'Grand Water Trine' to enhance fluidty in dreams as well as at home, work, or in relationship. Opposite Spirit Sun with transformational Pluto, the Sun and Moon also form the axis of an unusual Kite formation, as well as a tight 'T' square to altruistic Uranus: with this configuration one must never underestimate the moral, physical and/or spiritual strength of the individual that rises to the challenge of being of spiritual service .
♥¸.•¨¯`•☆٠.•..•¨*☀☽✩☼

Image is of KwanYin, Goddess of Compassion _/♥\_

Guru Rinpoche Day _/♥\_ Dec 22 2012

♥¸.•¨¯`•☆٠.•..•¨*☀☽✩☼
Guru Rinpoche Day ~> Solstice feasting continues today by honouring our teachers. With the Winter Solstice Sun & exalted Moon in stabilising Taurus we celebrate the preservation of the good life: food on the table, shelter over our heads, warm and loving friends, guides and teachers. Though easy to take for granted, not everyone in the world has the sustenance of such life-affirming simple pleasures. Giving thanks now, especially as the new era of ‘Unity Consciousness’ begins to form in the collective heart- mind _/♥\_

Watch the action as La Luna grows in light, heading towards the Full Christmas Moon on the 28th December at 10:21GMT, 7 degrees Cancer. Spirit Sun will be with powerful Pluto in Capricorn, signifying a renewal and TRANSFORMATION of all that no longer serves, be that emotional and/or practical: Great time to renew vows, or make early New Year’s resolutions. You may even notice a dramatic change in attitude towards traditional support systems.

Image is of Padmasambhava, the Lotus Born founder of Tibetan Buddhism, whose mantra is "Om Ah Hum Vajra Guru Padma Siddhi Hum" _/♥\_ ૐ :)

Winter Solstice 2012 ~> ♥ _/☼\_ ♥

21:12:12
Medicine Buddha Moon Winter Solstice!
Let the Healing Love-Light shine ♥ _/☼\_ ♥

This extraordinary Solstice is empowered by tuning into our alignment to the cosmos, with Earth crossing the Galactic Equator; this is actually a long transit that began in the mid 80’s and completes around 2016. This is a vast time span, so we actually have a few more years of the Winter Solstice + Galactic Centre + Galactic Equator + Sun (+ Pluto) to work with, to energise and transform. What makes today’s meditation all the more special is how our intention to heal and evolve, as well as the end of an era in the Mayan Calendar, marks this poignant moment as we encourage our love-wisdom to grow, our heart-mind resonance to strengthen, and our radiant clear light within to become more brilliant.

The Solstice Sun is also in a broad square to a courageous Aries Moon, which is conjunct friendly Uranus. The will of the individual is strong and determined to make the world a better place. With focus and confidence, this S8n-Moon-Uranus combination can stimulate the third eye to become all-seeing: Now is the time to focus upon the vision of an altruistic future where all beings are happy.

There is also the Yod ‘Y’ formation in the sky, otherwise known as a ‘Finger of Fate’, which will last until the New Year, funnelling the energies of responsible, transformational love into expansive Jupiter, who is at the apex of the ‘Y’. Jupiter is the Cosmic Santa Claus, adding hope, optimism and a lot more Yo-ho-ho to the season’s festivities! Enjoy! I am tuning in from Southern France and hold you all in my heart, with LOVE ♥ _/☼\_ ♥

Meditation Capricorn Ingress 11:12 UT & 12:12 Central European Time.
Check other times here:


Of course, this wonderful meditation opening to the Solstice Spirit of renewal can be meditated upon throughout the holidays ~> and beyond! ♥

2012 Winter Solstice Meditation

Cosmic tip for 2012 Solstice Meditation (@11:12GMT) _/☼\_

☆• During Solstice (either at Winter or Summer) our light-radiating Sun is at standstill. Sol = Sun, stice= Stitium, which comes from Latin, for stoppage. And as the Sun 'stops' it rises and sets in the same place for three days and creates a 3-day restful 'gap'. This pause is like 'the gap' in meditation which happens between the 'out' breath and the 'in' breath, and is the very pause where we rest in our true nature, clear and free, that determines meditation. Sometimes resting in this gap makes it seem like we have reached Nirvana. When mind realises it is in that meditative gap, however, it begins to conceptualise. Then, of course, we headlong straight back into the everyday world we Buddhists call 'Samsara'! Such is the nature of mind! :) •☆

So, while enLIGHTenment can seem fleeting, the most important thing we can do for ourselves, and by extention for every one else including planet Earth, is to practice mindful breathing and radiate unconditional love, warmth and compassion - Not just NOW, at this very special solstice - empowered by our intention to evolve, as well as the new era of the 6th Sun of the Mayan calendar - but every day. And remember that breath is mind's vehicle to Spirit.

After these 3 days, the New Light King is reborn for Christmas!

FYI: The words 'breath' 'inspiration' & 'Spirit' have the same etymological root: inspirare _/|\_

Shine on darling hearts! ♥ _/☼\_ ♥

Sun conjunct Galactic Centre _/☼\_ December 2012

18th December ~> Happy Saturnalia! _/☼\_ 

Approaching 21:12:2012's shortest day (in the Northern hemisphere) and that all-important Winter Solstice ;) we honour the Karmic Time Lord, SATURN ~> Cosmic Grand Master of the Solstice ceremonies! Saturn in perceptive Scorpio provides insight and strength to free psychological slavery (i.e letting go of negative mindsets and outworn habits), and become the

personal master of one's own destiny.

From the collective viewpoint, Spirit Sun is at 26 degree’s Sagittarius; this means the brilliant Sun exactly aligns with the heart of our galaxy, the Galactic Centre, today! NOW (and continuing throughout Solstice) is an optimum time to set the intention to radiate the COSMIC LIGHT OF INTELLIGENCE & come from the HEART-MIND ♥ _/|\_ ♥

Responsible and disciplined Saturn also reminds us that 'practice makes perfect'.

12:12:12 ~> Heart-Mind Love-Wisdom & Compassion

12:12:12
This numerically charged date is actually the darkest time of the year (in the northern hemisphere), with a visionary and truth seeking new Sagittarian moon on the 13th and Solstice on the 21st.

12 is the number of the Sun _/☼\_

12:12:12 implies a triple layered Spirit of the Sun. Like the three circles of a mandala, the outer is the Zodiacal year, the inner the Lunar month, & the Secret motivates wisdom & compassion, i.e. personality (self) in relation to environment and spirit, having the will to seed during the year’s dark moon the everyday reality of love-wisdom and compassion. _/♥\_

Appreciating this rare numerology, it’s worth considering how this date adds up to something else for less well-known or ancient calendars. We can even add the whole date, 12: 12: 2012 = 11 (!) = 2 ~> number of the Goddess.
Or 12:12:12:12:12 = 6 ~> space master creator
Or 12:12:12 = 9 ~> warm humanitarian

What makes the number and day special for us however is the powerful HEART-MIND LOVE-WISDOM consciousness that we invest into the moment; being helpful and kind in any encounter, with an open heart, empowers, shifts, and raises one’s own internal vibration, as well as having a positive effect upon the world around. The same goes for 21:12:12, which has become a phenomenon in its own right. How the Mayans might smile now as this evolutionary alignment of heart and mind reaches a maximum awareness.

So at the moment of 12.12 pm on12.12.12, wherever we are in the world, let’s all meditate together and focus upon the qualities our Spiritual Sun, heart of solar life force, and the ‘Conscious Light of Intelligence’.
_/☼\__/♥\__/☼\_

Thx to Visual Alchemy for Sagittarian Purple Buddha _/☼\_

Lama Tsongkhapa & Dakini Day! Dec 2012

Light blessings _/☼\_ 8th/9th December 2012

Lama Tsongkhapa & Dakini Day ~> Tashi Delek! _/♥\_

Today in Tibetan Buddhism we feast and celebrate the life of Lama Tsongkhapa, Tibet’s great 14th century scholar and practitioner and founder the yellow hat Galug tradition.

 

_/♥\_ ~ ☼ ~ ♥ ~☽ ~ ☼ ~ ✯ ~ ♥ ~ ☼ ~ _/♥\_

From an astrological perspective, this weekend’s Libra Dakini Moon is feminine and cultured, inspired by beauty, peace and harmony. In good aspect to the far-reaching Sagittarian Sun, a poised Libra Moon coupled with a visionary archer leads the spirited heart-mind towards joyful balance, rendering a great weekend for social merry-making with friends and loved ones.

Coming after two change-inducing eclipses, this Dakini Moon also heralds the end of another eclipse season (until April 2013) and effectively brings the solar 2012 year to a close; for these next few days are when the luminaries, Sun and Moon, are at their least bright (in the northern hemisphere) and come to a closing cycle. Both New Moon and the north's shortest day, Winter Solstice, are still days away until Yule's turning point. Its therefore important to also rest and nourish mind and body at this time of year, keeping ones’ internal light aflame, especially before the new Sagittarian Moon on the 13th, which immediately follows the numerically charged darkest day of the year, 12:12:12 – These numbers suggest a triple layered solar logos: outer, inner & secret, i.e personality (self) in relation to environment and spirit, having the will to seed the everyday reality of love-wisdom and compassion. _/♥\_

Thangka from the collection of His Emminence Tsem Tulku Rinpoche _/♥\_with thx 

Finger of g0d ~> Jupiter opposition Sun December 2012

Cosmic Guru, Jupiter, though retrograde, is at the apex for the 'finger of g0d' formation that takes us into the New Year. Truth seeking Jupiter is visionary and optimistic; now in Gemini, Jupiter highlights informed communication that broadens the heart-mind; opposite the Sagittarian Spirit Sun on Monday 3rd December, Jupiter encourages the philosophical outlook when having to adjust certain situations.

The now waning Full Moon, which conjunct the planet of expansion and Sagittarius ruler, appears to have tuned-us all into far-sighted Jupiter's magnificence as it rode the heavens with la Luna during the partial Lunar Eclipse.
 
Check the astronomy of this hopeful and confident Sun-Jupiter alignment here. 
For those who are cosmcially connected living on the South Coast, I am presenting a talk next week at the Brighton Astrology group on Thursday 6th December, on ASTROLOGY & YOGA.

Also good to note that we're still under the influence of the 'Mercury Max' - until December 4th: a phase of intense research and discoveries can also be applied to close relations.

Heart-Mind & the Lunar Eclipse November 2012

An intense Venus Saturn conjunction perfects tomorrow in Scorpio. This is karmic love at it's most profound. Fear-based astro-peeps can get quite het-up when they consider a Venus Saturn conjunction, and especially one in Scorpio that conjures up deeply secret and (tantric) powerful relations. 

While it is true that, depending upon the dynamics and the interaction of chart, person, circumstance and karma, this can be a challenging conjunction; it is one that also symbolises commitment and responsibility towards that which we love - and that can freak out ‘freedom lovers’ (a.k.a. commitment-phobes) who have yet to understand the concepts of interconnection and interdependence, and how there is liberation in knowing Oneness in all things. 

From a personal point of view, some of the most important things/people/events I have ever been involved with have this celestial pledge of dedication, durability and devotion. So when dealing with matters of the heart over the next few days  it may well be a case of ‘feel the fear, but do it anyway’, especially when developing relationship or building business and/or career ideas and connections that bring about respect and self-esteem. 

From the astrological point of view Venus and Saturn are making a marvelous aspect (60°) to the current Mars-Pluto conjunction in Capricorn. This is a little bit complex but I trust (hope!) you will be able to follow the importance of the relationship planets (Venus and Mars) in relationship: Mars and Pluto, while in Capricorn, are also in mutual disposition and ‘friend’s’ with the Scorpio Saturn: Pluto rules Scorpio (the sign Saturn is in) and Mars is exalted in Capricorn, meaning that Mars works best in this sign as he loses the wilfulness associated with blundering chaos and gains mastery through his initiation into Universal understanding. Together, this mighty combination suggests strength, stamina and stealth – all of which can be used for good or bad.   

Venus, however, is in her detriment in Scorpio, although being empowered by her good relations to Mars and Pluto, the Goddess’ darker energies may well mean that jealousy, obsessions and paranoia are given the short sharp shrift. 

In our new world order based upon love-wisdom and compassion, such difficult dynamics are used to help overcome duality, activate the heart-mind, and generate the everflowing nectar of Bodhicitta, relative and ultimate.  

Wishing to develop Bodhicitta, and that all mother sentient beings are free from suffering, is considered relative, and this may well be enough during the powerful eclipse coming up early in the week, as the lunar eclipse sparks off once again the theme of 2012: global heart-mind activation. 

The lunar eclipse on the 28^th November constellates the 7 degrees Sagittarius Sun and Gemini Moon, within a ‘finger of fate’ or ‘finger of g0d’ (nodding to Greg for Divine spelling), yod formation. This ‘finger’ points directly to the Moon during the eclipse, representing our emotions; responses and feminine intuition lie in the (Gemini) mind, which resides in the heart.

So wherever 7 degrees Gemini-Sagittarius, Scorpio or Capricorn are in your chart, these are the areas now involved in adjusting to the development of heart-mind. I say adjusting because this is configuration is like a push-me-pull-you, when funnelling intense pressure requires consideration, effort and precision. During this Lunar Eclipse, as it is the moon which provides the precision, it is essential to look at Gemini more deeply.   Doing so with esoteric astrology we see the sign of communication, neighbourhood, and siblings, Gemini’s esoteric ruler is Venus, planet of love and harmonious relations; learning to communicate love therefore, to our brothers and sisters within our immediate environment is essential to enhance the orthodox mind of ideas and thoughts. 

This degree of the lunar eclipse is also the very same degree planet Venus was at during her epic transit of the Sun this year. And it is also the very same degree which will be aspected at the Winter Solstice 2012 by Jupiter, Sagittarian ruler of wisdom and higher learning. Get the picture? Consciousness resides in the heart. Train the mind now and see the bigger picture with a loving heart, and be released from the bondage of attachment and aversion.

There’s also a deliciously magical and profound cosmic energy to tap into that helps soften any harsh revelation. The celestial delight I speak of is due to Goddess Venus alluring and loving in Scorpio (with Saturn), linking up with Earth Mother Ceres in fellow sensitive water sign, Cancer; together Venus and Ceres then constellate a gorgeous ‘Grand Water Trine’ with spiritual Neptune and healing Chiron in Pisces. For the next few days we may even sense certain things, ideas, people and situations are worth loving, forgiving and saving, such as honesty, nature and friendship.This Grand Water Trine will come into greater focus with the Moon in Cancer on the 30th November.

Next month we have a new supermoon to look forward to and, of course, our Winter Solstice global meditation for world peace and heart-mind alignment. 

Blessings and Thanks to Anya Langmead for Vajrasattva and Pounyan for wonderful image _/♥\_