Easter Blessings! _/✿\_ 2013

The sensitive Moon in optimistic Sagittarius opposes the expansive Sagittarian ruler, Jupiter, this Easter Sunday/Monday, making Jupiter the planet to uplift and influence our emotions and, more importantly at this moment in time, our cosmic DNA.

Generous Jupiter is the celestial Guru, teaching spiritual growth though morals and ethics, impersonal analysis, and big-hearted benevolence. Now in Gemini, Jupiter provides the intellect with a mirror in which to see the inner workings of Spirit, as this far-sighted planet passes over the very same degrees at which the love Goddess Venus made her momentous once-in-a-lifetime LOVE transmission to Spirit Sun last year. So cast your mind back to June 2012, and put your heart-mind into perspective; see how love, compassion and kindness have grown within and around you. And note how Jupiter can expand consciousness and activate these qualities even more so throughout April, and possibly for the rest of our lives.

Image of the Buddha and the Flower of Life by Bernart Amygdala Digital-Art, with thx ❤_/ॐ\_❤

If you would like to know more about how to grow love in your life with an astrology reading, please see here for rates.

Venus at Superior cojnunction with Full Libra Moonbeams ~ Easter 2013

★☽☼☾☆ Creative sky dancing under full Libra moonbeams; the relationship Love Goddess Venus (which rules Libra) is with the lively Aries Sun, to be exact tomorrow (28th March) AND Uranus, the wild and cool planet that demands space to be an eccentric free spirit. My beloved late teacher, Howard Sasportas, (co-founder of the Centre of Psychological Astrology) would associate this combination of planets with a dynamic he called the ‘freedom-closeness dilemma’. That is, the highly-charged challenge of being in a respectful partnership, with all its shared intimate moves and experiences, yet still able to expand, change, and socially experiment - all of which can confront a variety of conventional rules of what relationship means.

A suggested formula in resolving any kind of relationship conflict between Aries autonomy and the often disconnected, chaotic genius that an unconventional Uranus implies, now tightly aligned with the Venusian need for attachment, is to embrace any space between you and a loved one, as a means of doing our own thing with love in our heart. Generously giving others freedom and/or taking our own independence means everyone can remain friends. It’s also a lesson in not holding on so tightly so that one is in danger of suffocating the very thing/person/idea that is loved and admired.

From a spiritual practitioner’s point of view, one might say Venus with Uranus in Aries now encourages one to fully engage in the self-observing dance of self-awareness and consciousness, to focus upon ego-melting love by being engaged but, at the same time, detached enough to find a happy balance between autonomy and intimacy, between self-sacrificing altruism and dignified self-worth.

Venus disappears totally from Earth's view as she now enters into superior conjunction with the Sun (and Uranus), only to re-emerge as ‘Queen of the Heavens’, as an evening star late May/early June – where she will stay until January 2014. As an evening star Venus takes on qualities of a more mature feminine wisdom.

If you would like an astrology reading to know how Venus and the ‘freedom-closeness’ constellates your horoscope, please contact me here for rates.
With L❀VE•´¯`•.¸¸.♥
Image of 'Year of Astronomy' by Mysteria DL at DeviantArt__/❤\__

Full Libra Moon ~ March 27th '13

☽☆☾★☼ ❤۞❤☼★☽☆☾         

Wednesday the 27th's Full Moon in Libra at 9:27gmt (5:27EST) accents the power of individual LOVE, TRUTH and FREEDOM, uniting to be at ONE, with self, loved ones, friends, a team or even society. This is quite a powerful influence, as the harmonious and relationship orientated Libra Moon opposes Spirit Sun exalted in Aries, next to loving Venus, and the current Mars-Uranus conjunction rousing impulsive if not heroic quick change – be that change within ourselves, loved ones or peer group.

With so many planets in the sign of assertive and courageous Aries, understanding the position of ‘hero’ is imperative. In Buddhism the hero is not one who conquers by slaying the innocent and perceived foes. Our heroes are Spiritual Warriors who gently overcome destructive desires and aversions to liberate his or her own ego

So while this brilliant mid-week Libra Moon provides illuminating insight onto self, particularly in relationship, the planets also indicate self-love is an important factor when being with friends, or in fast-moving situations, when raising altruism also melts away fiery anger and ego. To valiantly put the benefit of others before self is the Bodhisattva ideal; doing so actually makes us more compassionate, likeable and sociable. Accepting this may not always be easy with the materialistically driven ego stimulated at every turn, practice makes perfect. And even if we don’t always succeed in caring for others in the manner to which we aspire, it’s important not to berate one’s self, but to now make necessary adjustments to character - and strategy, and recognise personal good points that can be developed and relied upon in the future. ❤ This is the way of the heart

Astro-tech: Also worth bearing in mind is how, in Esoteric Astrology, the hierarchical ruler of Aries is Uranus, the eccentric visionary planet which emphases the unique talent that each person brings to the collective. Thus the Aries individuality and its call for brave action perfom best when the focus is upon working with others, making the world a better place. Alone we may not make a difference, but together we can - and put on a great show

☽☆☾★☼ ❤۞❤☼★☽☆☾
Image of GuanYin ~Buddha of Compassion dancers from the China Disabled People's Performing Art Troupe ~> with thx - So inspiring what we can do when we work in harmony: These girls are all either mute of deaf.

Friday 22nd March _/❤\_ Guru Rinpoche Day! ~> feast day!

☸ This 10th day of the second month, Guru Rinpoche took ordination from Buddha's disciple Ananda (whose name means ‘Extreme Happiness’). Guru Rinpoche showed unparalleled understanding and mastery of both sutra and mantra, and became known as ‘Guru Shakya Sengé’, ‘Lion of the Shakyas ‘, and as ‘Guru Loden Choksé’, ‘Wise seeker of the Sublime’.

☆~☽☼☾~☆ From the astrological point of view, Spirit Sun is exalted in Aries, and today makes a helpful trine to the sensitive Moon in loyal & joyful Leo, the sign of the loving Lion.

This is a fiery combination of ‘the lights’, with optimum ‘yang’ energy; Sun and Moon are dynamic together, as they accent the heart connection a Spiritual Warrior has to the Guru or teacher, source of all illumination.

It is also a great time to do what is good for oneself, to muster courage and conquer self-delusion with positive antidotes, as the desire to accomplish is greatly heightened.

The Buddha said
"Conquer the angry person by love.
Conquer the ill-natured person by goodness.
Conquer the miser with generosity.
Conquer the liar with truth.
If one should conquer only themself, theirs indeed is the greatest victory."
From the Dhamapada _/❤\_

Image Buddha, Monk & Moon by Jennifer Gelinas ~ with thx _/❤\_

If you would like to know more about 'the lights' in your horoscope with an astrology reading, please check here for rates.

Spring Equinox 2013

☼ Rise & Shine! °◌•˚◎◦⊚°◌•˚◎◦⊚ Today is the Vernal Equinox, when the radiant light of the Sun enters Aries, its sign of exaltation @11:02gmt, to energise the northern hemisphere with the Spring Equinox, a time of equal day and equal night (in the southern hemisphere it is, of course Autumn). Wherever we are, this is a time of change.

☼ Spirit Sun represents one’s identity and in the sign of the Ram, a symbol of courage, daring and enterprise. The Sun is also in hard aspect to the on-going Uranus-Pluto square AND the Cancerian Moon; transformation and radical renewal can be now achieved with caution, by showing the care a mother would her child.

☼ In the Tibetan system, at Spring Equinox we honour Kalachakra ~> Kala = Time, Chakra = Wheel, the mandala which encapsulates cosmology, astrology, and the energy systems of the body _/♥\_

The Kalachakra Mandala is also the mandala for World Peace:

“A good motivation is what is needed: compassion without dogmatism, without complicated philosophy; just understanding that others are human brothers and sisters and respecting their human rights and dignities. That we humans can help each other is one of our unique human capacities.” ~ His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama ~ _/♥\_

Happy Spring Equinox!
Illustration is of the Kalachakra Mantra monogram _/♥\_

If you would like an astrology reading to know how this Spring Equinox constellates your horoscope, please see here for rates. _/♥\_

Medicine Buddha _/❤\_ Tara Puja day ~> 19th March '13

The first quarter moon emotes in Gemini and squares Spirit Sun in sensitive Pisces, joined by an exalted Venus in Pisces, radiating love and unconditional compassion towards all beings. A first quarter Moon is a time of action, specifically action that helps one to heal and overcome obstacles, such as taming the chattering monkey mind that distracts from emotional intelligence and opening the heart to LOVE WISDOM.

Both the Gemini twins and two Pisces fishes are mutable, accenting the potential for dualism to flow into a dynamic unified harmony. This Gemini Moon also has a powerful Fixed Star as an ally, as it sits next to fixed star Betelgeuse, which shines in the constellation Orion. Betelgeuse reinforces commitment and determination to implement change without complication and brings great success. Meaning that when one is determined to shift mind’s focus from being in a state of confusion or frustration to concentrate upon loving kindness, the planetary energy is NOW right to do so!

Illustration of Buddha Bliss by Amanda Sage ~> with thanks _/❤\_

Medicine Buddha Mantra "Tayatha Om Bekanze Bekanze MahaBekanze Rasa Samut Gate Soha" __/❤\__

Mercury direct ~> in Pisces March'13

Thank Heavens! Planet of communication Mercury is now direct, and the healing trickster will soon be wading out of these Piscean waters٠•●♥❤♥●•><((((º>

This particular Mercury retro, has been one of the slipperiest retrogrades for a while, as things/people/situations challenged equilibrium, compassion, and the ability to surrender unto something greater than ego. The deeper meaning of this Mercury retrograde has been to ride the waves of emotion and realise how the intuitive light within illuminates all kinds of conundrums. Issues surrounding this Mercury retrograde could linger a while, even as we go forward into an exciting Spring Equinox on Wednesday 20th ~> when Spirit Sun joins dynamic Mars and radical Uranus in the sign of the Ram. The Moon will be in Cancer then too, and the order of the day will be to proceed with caution. So no hard and fast pedal to the metal; take corners or shortcuts with careful ease and sensitivity, and take on board the lessons of the past few weeks, to be an aware and conscious being. _/\_

Illustration "The Divine Mercurial Water" by Baro Urbigerus, Hamburg 1705

New Pisces Moon seeding COMPASSION before Spring Equinox __/❤\__

Seven celestial bodies are now creating a very rare cosmic shoal in Pisces, as Neptune, Chiron, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Sun AND Mars, are all in the sign of the fish, making today’s new moon @19:51GMT (15:51EST), at 21Pisces, extraordinary in its breadth of vision, focus, and concentrated in its depth of feeling.

In esoteric astrology, Pisces is ‘The Light of the WORLD’ and its symbol of the two Fishes swimming in opposite directions connects EARTH to HEAVEN. Though this energy is mutable and dualistic, we are magically linked together to become ONE with each other and the universe.

Pisces also rules the world of dreams, messages of the night that can illuminate visions of future prophesies, as well as be symbolic of past fears and self-delusion.

In Buddhism all life is seen as illusion, ‘Maya’, that elusive interplay between substance and energy, form and personality, that merges the mind in a magical dance which can deceive us from acknowledging our true nature of light and love, thus keeping us bound to Samsara, locked into the Wheel of Existence. The ‘Mind Stream’ is the ‘continuum’ which flows from life to life in this Sea of Samsara. Yet Sogyal Rinpoche reminds us that Samsara and Nirvana are both sides of the same coin and we can choose which to focus upon: "Samsara is the mind turned outwardly lost in its projections. Nirvana is the mind turned inwardly towards it‘s true nature”.

At this amazing new Pisces Moon, now is the time to awaken to Nirvana and become enlightened through the Piscean Light of the World, open the heart-mind and third eye, plant the seed of unconditional COMPASSION, and be unified in wisdom and loving kindness.

Chandrakirti (7th Century Himalayan Saint) said “At the beginning, COMPASSION is like a seed; in the middle, it is like water; at the end, it is like a fruit. Achieving the result of full enlightenment is all due to COMPASSION”

Namaste my friends __/❤\__ ~> We are the light. We are also a collective powerfully transforming and healing wounded emotion in this year of the Black Water snake through the awakening of loving compassion ~ the most important practice in life.

♥ ♪♪♫ ٠•●♥❤♥●• ><((((º> ♥ ♪♪♫ ٠•●♥❤♥●• ><((((º> ♥ ♪♪♫

Thanks to Krystaleyez for visionary art __/❤\__

If you would like an astrology reading to see where this important practice is now being activated in your horoscope, please contact me here Laura Boomer-Trent.

7th March ☸ Dakini Day __/❤\__

Sun in Pisces & Moon in Capricorn
With no less than six planets in watery Pisces, today’s earthy and feminine Moon in sensible Capricorn provides a personal sanctuary; through being responsible and disciplined we can create an island bedrock, and find stability within while Samsara’s shores lap all around.

For the stillness of a mind at rest nurtures and purifies the moving body (of water).

~> Wishing one & all a very happy International Women's Day for March 8th! __/❤\__

Love & thx to unknown artist for MoonTree Goddess by the shore♥

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░ *
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❤♫❤♫❤♫.•*¨`*•.¸♥☼♥☼♥☼♥¸.•*¨`*•.♫❤♫❤

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 :)