♃ Developing intuition ~> Jupiter in Cancer - July 2013-14

BIG year ahead from now until July 2014 for Cancerians (and, to a lesser degree all other Cardinal signs) ~> Beneficent Jupiter moves into tropical Cancer at 2:41bst tomorrow morning, the 26th, for the 1st time in 12ish years. Jupiter expands and grows whichever sign it is in. We’ve just witnessed the last throws of a capacious Jupiter in Gemini, sign of communication, with revelations of how all kinds of information are stored as digital data in excess. Now, however, Jupiter’s emphasis is upon developing intuition and expanding support systems, sangha & (global) family, as well as improving loving kindness and the right-brained fertile world of emotions and feelings. Jupiter is actually exalted in watery, reflective Cancer, sign of the sensitive homebody, which may seem rather odd for all Jupiter’s far-reaching cosmic greatness. Yet it makes perfect sense that in order to be adventurous and develop faith and ethics, hope and academia, to be wise and to grow, we need fans on the home front to lend generous support; i.e. we need to nurture our inner-stability, so that we are secure in our foundations, before fully grasping the (spiritual) world’s more abstract concepts, theories or truths, from all of which Jupiter, as sacred Guru - teaches us how to be liberated.

Also, from a worldly point of view, it’s a great year for home improvements for everyone (says she with paint pots at the ready!)

Photographic artwork is of a drop of Water encompassing Jupiter, by Markus Reugals , with thanks _/♥\_

◯ Full Capricorn Super Moon & the Solstice Sun ~> June 2013

☼ ☾ The full Super Moon on Sunday @12:31pmBST (6:31amEST) is at 2Capricorn, accenting the brilliant Solstice Sun, as it stands resplendent with generous and optimistic Jupiter. The Full Super Moon is indeed astrologically super, as it also brings into practical play a rare ‘Kite’ formation that includes the overwhelming power and fluidity of the ‘Grand Water Trine’; thus it is the Moon, i.e. ‘the people’, our emotions, our (vibe) family, and our needs, that are all now playing a pivotal role as catalyst for crystallising important ideas, events, situations, as well as enabling one to embody the compassion, care & perception indicated by this immensely important and long lasting Grand Water Trine.

Note how the summer’s perceptive and intuitive Grand Water Trine lasts until early September; Water and its qualities of purifying and nurturing will continue to be a theme throughout the summer. Notwithstanding a decade of rainy summers forecast in Britain, planets in the Water element make it easy to tune into a collective undercurrent; feelings that sense a transformation in the making. And it is the Spirit of the Solstice Sun which now seals this magical configuration that works on many emotional levels; being in exact trine to the perceptive Saturn in Scorpio AND watery Neptune in Pisces on the 26th June (same day Jupiter goes into Cancer, and Mercury goes retro in Cancer, advising us to reconsider family and security).

This Water triplicity, Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces, manifests at its highest vibration as compassion with Neptune/Chiron in Pisces, perception with Saturn in Scorpio’s laser-like insight, and caring Cancer, with Sun, Venus, Mercury, soon to be joined by expansive Jupiter, who is exalted in Cancer.

From the Buddhist perspective we could say this a summer of developing a connection between ‘Maitri’ (Metta), loving kindness (symbolised by Cancer, caring as a mother loves her child), ‘Karuna’, compassion when life is in the flow of change is Pisces; and Saturn in Scorpio, developing the Bodhisattva spirit with Vipassanna, the special penetrative insight into the true nature of reality– all of which can be enhanced by specific meditative techniques that help us to put compassion into action.

The Water trine can therefore enhance prayer, meditation and all work with unseen energies with positive affect. In light of this please send love & healing prayers to Northern India where the Temple town near the source of the sacred Ganges has been flooded and mountain tsunamied: many people have died and are still missing; Also Calgary in Northern Canada, where 100,000 people have been forced to evacuate due to flooding.

Thank you & thanks for sharing. _/♥\_
Image of Kwan Yin Goddess of Compassion, artist unknown. Shiva, guardian of the Ganges by HinduTimes photographs_/♥\_ ☼ ☆•*¨*•.¸¸♥ ☾

_/☼\_ One Love under the Solstice Sun ~> June 2013

Spirit Sun _/☼\_ One Love  One Heart ♥

June 21st @6:04BST ~> Happy Solstice!

Sun stands still for three days as it changes its emphasis of light during the longest day in the north & and the longest night in the south. Like the gap in between breaths in mediation, our Solstice Sun now rests in a sacred space of spiritual Oneness, radiating the blessings of light, warmth and consciousness, as the Cosmic Wheel turns towards a Super Full Moon on SUNday 23rd _/♥\_

Cosmic Teacher's ~> Guru Rinpoche day ~> 18th June & Sun conjunct Jupiter _/\_

☼ ✶ ☾ Five days before the years’ largest Full SuperMoon, and two days before the year’s solar turning point at Summer Solstice, Spirit Sun conjoins the Cosmic Guru, Jupiter (exact at 17:10BST June 19th), making for Tibetan Buddhists an especially doubly poignant Guru Rinpoche day. For today we also celebrate the miraculous lotus-born birth of Tibet’s 8th century second Buddha: Guru Rinpoche, Padmasambhava, the great master who was born on this 10th day of the waxing lunation in a Monkey month (June).

Guru Rinpoche emphasises the importance of dwelling in the open-minded attitude of enlightenment, remaining optimistic and devoted to faith when faced with obstacles. Similarly, in astrology, Jupiter is the enthusiastic planet of philosophy, travel and truth, and the archetype we look to in the horoscope to explore new horizons, understand others, and spiritually grow into our natural wisdom.

Both Guru Rinpoche and Jupiter are teachers that encourage us to expand our world view and consciousness, confident in knowing that all elements - including space, are interconnected. With Guru Rinpoche’s teachings we too, can also grow our personal rainbow aura, with an awareness which radiates from the heart-mind.

As Sun and Jupiter meet at 28 degrees of Airy and intellectual Gemini, they also conjunct the fixed Royal star, Betelgeuse. Betelgeuse indicates success and honours; through clear communication we can now connect with honest and devotion and call upon the Guru’s transcendent perfection to help overcome mental obscuration and delusion and, depending upon which stage we are at in our continual unfolding, embrace relative and ultimate truth, so that we, too, can become masters of pure mindfulness, and be of greater benefit to others in these changing times.

Guru Rinpoche mantra to overcome obstacles ~>
OM AH HUNG VAJRA GURU PEMA SIDDHI HUNG!
__/\__ Tashi Delek & Happy Guru Rinpoche day!

✡ Medicine Buddha & a Six-pointed Star ~> June 2013

☼ ~✶~☽ An extraordinary pattern dominated this lunation's Medicine Buddha Moon, a six-pointed star involving two interlocking triangles: one is the summer’s Grand Trine in Water, the other a fleeting Grand Earth Trine, made all the more stable with a first quarter Moon in Virgo. This formidable feminine formation implies we are already intuitively aware of the healing needed within the body, as well as with our environment; the restorative Virgo Moon is also opposite shamanic healer, Chiron, quickly overcoming inhibited emotion, enabling the expression of needs and feelings in a practical manner.

A most valuable healing factor is to note how the current Gemini Sun/Jupiter conjunction highlights bamboozle hoop-la and hysteria, as well as an influx of important information. Knowing one’s connection to joy and beauty is vital in being able to maintain the healthy psyche that stops one from falling for any superficial hype, and encourages access to our natural wisdom, sensitivity, and intuition.

~> The cosmic wheel turns, and Solstice full SuperMoon (Sunday 23rd @14:32BST) emphasizes the cosmic fire that flows from the heart of the Solstice Sun, as well as the mighty strength of the Grand Water Trine. The mind’s concern is with altruistic emotion and the Divine natural law. It is also when the highest tides of the year will be experienced. This is one of the year’s major turning points and, while temperaments can change and fluctuate, the potential for crystallising ideas into form is strong.

Image of 'Inner Centre' by Bernhart Amygdhala Digital Art, with thanks _/♥\_

☾ Dark Moon in Gemini ~> June 13

☼☾ Maintaining a quiet mind during this the Dark Moon presents a challenge, as Moon conjuncts active Mars and policymaker Pallas Athena, whilst all in communicative Gemini – the same sign as tomorrow’s new Moon, when our nurturing Moon conjoins Spirit Sun (and expansive Jupiter) at 16:54 BST (11:54EST).

☆ A multi-dextrous Gemini juggles ideas, fact and figures, as well as conveying information, goods, and medicine (and therein lays the gift of the celestial courier). With no less five celestial markers now in Gemini, it suggests we’re on information overload (but still with an inclination towards healing); brains could whir trying to understand a planet involved in seemingly endless chitter-chatter. Yet making sense of the dualistic world now demands different tactics than ordinary number-crunching analysis, especially as energy levels tend to be naturally low at dark Moon. Consider stepping back from the monkey mind to revitalise and strengthen heart and soul, and potentially provide answers to tricky questions. These planets in airy Gemini not only emphasise data and brilliant intelligence, but also the importance of giving the mind much-needed space, to shape new ideas and grow.

When in the still silence of space, mind naturally radiates; and it is in this state that insight naturally arises – which is why watching our breath in meditation is so helpful for personal decision making, as well as generating mindfulness towards others, rooted at One with all that we are.

Also today Neptune, planet of dreams, meditation and unconditional compassion begins a 5-month retrograde in Pisces; this extra-long transit teaches universal forgiveness (among other qualities), internalising kindness and sympathy.

“As you breathe in, cherish yourself.
As you breathe out, cherish all Beings.”
~ His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama  __/❤\__

Thanks to Cameron Grey for his image “The Never-Ending Dreamer”  __/❤\__

Sky Dancing Dakini Day! ~> June 2nd/3rd 2013

An airy Gemini Sun makes a harmonious aspect to the emotive Moon, in autonomous Aries. Together they generate a burning passion for the spiritual warrior to communicate and act upon thoughts seemingly carried by the wind.

Curious Gemini stimulates the enquiring mind to cruise the information highway and to transmit news, ideas, and knowledge. Moon in dynamic Aries quickly assimilates such information, so that how we feel about important issues can be swiftly assessed, synthesised and acted upon before next weekend’s Gemini New Moon, June 8th.

Interestingly, both spirit Sun and the fiery, living-in-the-moment Aries Moon are now in a good strong aspect to liberating Uranus, where ‘The Light’s’ highest vibration is for all beings to be treated as equal. Thus the Gemini sky-like mind spirals towards the end of this lunation with a feminine guiding hand that senses the need for personal independence and freedom, be that a freedom to think or worship, or from war, suffering or hunger. And thus has a cause to support.

Even with a helpful aspect, emotions can be powerful. So while Uranus dictates primitive emotion such as anger and selfishness are unhealthy and obstructive – i.e. always thinking of I, me and mine, it may be the seed for causing potential harm to others, as well as be bad for the heart; the caution here is to avoid thoughtless whim and sudden martial exploits on impulse. Uranus is the Hierarchical ruler of Aries: self-centred attitude can certainly be directed to developing personal strength, but using this might of individual volition for an altruistic cause and the benefits of others is the action of mindful warrior of the heart, not a domineering dictator.

Happily, this Summer’s delightful Grand Water Trine is now shaping up to direct the mind-stream to be in one’s flow: to be caring, perceptive and compassionate. This deeply sensitive Grand Trine sets the tone for the coming months, getting extra encouragement at the new Moon, as well as at another powerful Solstice Full SuperMoon (the 2nd Full SuperMoon in a row of three!).

Tara ~ Medicine Buddha Moon ~ May 31st _/♥\_

Sun in Gemini – Moon in Pisces ٠•●♥♥●•><((((º>

An ultra-sensitive Moon in Pisces is currently conjunct oceanic Neptune, and the zodiac’s shaman, Chiron. Three planets in the all-consuming sign of the fishes indicate that emotions are profound but insightful, leading to deep and meaningful healing, even if currently overwhelmed by Samsara's seemingly never-ending round of suffering, loss and separation. With the radiant light of the Sun illuminating fast-thinking Gemini, the curious mind is more easily aroused to analyze problems, discover compassion, and find workable solutions to all kinds of issues, be they physical, mental, or spiritual - even if it means making certain sacrifices in order to fulfill long-term goals for the greater good of the whole.

Goddess Tara now emphasizes these planets in Pisces, highlighting the need for tolerance and compassion, especially when overcoming obstacles; as we now resonate to the words of Marriane Williamson, “The practice of forgiveness is our most important contribution to the healing of the world.”

SAGA DAWA _/♥\_ Vesak _/♥\_ Buddha Purnima May 24th/25th 2013

Honouring the day of Buddha’s (birth) enlightenment & Paranirvana _/♥\_

KARMA MULITPLIED X 10 million, because one of the most important days in the Buddhist calendar, Saka Dawa (Saka = Sakyamuni Buddha & Dawa = Moon in Tibetan), is also a lunar eclipse, at 5:25 Gmt (00:25EST) early Saturday morning.  With Earth only faintly shadowing the sensitive Moon at 4° Sagittarius, opposite the 4°Gemini Sun, this third eclipse in a row nonetheless presents another turning point that can deepen empathy and compassion, as well as our connection to the subtleties of the heart-mind and body, to the seen and unseen. Psychic energy abounds during this eclipse, creating positive development as well as challenges to ego and emotion to comprehend the eternal energies of cosmic consciousness. Thus the interplay between Sun, Moon and Earth - cosmos, self, and the Divine, becomes a delicate dance skillfully synchronising interior and exterior towards enlightenment.

To add to the responsiveness of this Full Moon in the sign of the archer, it is also the only Supermoon eclipse of the year, when tidal pull is strong. Seeing how we are 70%+ water, we too are now subject to poignant swings. However sensitive or emotional one might feel now or over the coming days, this eclipse encourages one to be adventurous. The greatest journey, however, is inside the mind, to broaden both thinking and vision and determine illusion from delusion. The Sagittarius-Gemini axis stimulates mental processes, integrating recent realisation (over the past 6 months) – intellectual or spiritual – into daily life and become more self-accepting, tolerant of others, and aware also of how powerful speech, thought, and media can be. Truth-seeking Sagittarius is the sign of the sage who comprehends the dualistic Gemini mode of communication: ideas aired now impact strongly upon others, spiritual or otherwise, which makes it all the more important that we have the right view with the right understanding because, in the words of the Buddha "All is mind. What we think we become" ♥

 

Whilst bathing under Full Moonbeams we also have a rare week-long conjunction of three planets: Mercury, Venus and Jupiter, all in the sign of the twins, which can be seen just after sunset in the northwest of the sky.  Generally speaking, these planets working together generally portend an optimistic outcome; and even if a little over the top, one can be philosophical.  Mercury & Venus are also currently ‘out-of-bounds’ meaning that they have strayed over the celestial belt, making the planets of communication and love slightly renegade! 

It’s also worth noting how Solar-flare resonance has been extremely high since the start of this lunation, with no less than 4 X-flares in a matter of days at the time of the first quarter. Any lethargy or confusion, stress or tension, could easily be personalised by Earth’s receptivity to Sun’s current action during this eclipse season. Bear in mind that we are at the height of an 11-year cycle of solar activity, ‘Solar Max’ as it is known in the astro trade. There may well be more X-flareS to come, but the constant flow of M-class flares we are no experiencing are ejecting high-energy protons and plasma guided towards earth along magnetic lines.  It’s almost as if the Light of Intelligence, Sun, charged-up to connect with the Divine self during this eclipse season to help us realise that individual consciousness and cosmic consciousness are actually indivisibly one.
 
Interestingly, though this eclipse will almost be impossible to detect, it’s importance lies in the fact that it is the beginning of a new series of Saros Cycles, called Saros 150, which will last 1262.11 years.  Saros Cycles are eclipse families joined by similar sacred geometry every 18 years 11 days, taking hundreds of years to complete. These are lengthy karmic cycles, opening heavenly gates for spiritual energies to move in and out. To my mind this eclipse marks a valid collective turning point, as it will bring energy in from North to South, joining heaven to earth.  

Basically this weekend its time to draw back that Saggitarian bow and direct the arrow of intention to go forth & make Karmic Merit! :)


With many thanks to unknown artists for Radiant & eternal Buddha and the constellation Gemini _/♥\_

MERIT MULITPLIED x100 Guru Rinpoche Day in Saga Dawa month ~> 20th May

☽☼☾

Spirit Sun is at the very last degree of Taurus, making this best ‘trine’ aspect to sensitive Moon in discerning Virgo, also at the last, 29th degree. Bear with me, this might be a little technical in as much the last degree of any sign in astrology is called ‘anaretic’, meaning we have already imbibed the qualities of the sign we are about to leave and, at the same time, sense and/or express the qualities of the coming sign – or in this case, signs, as Sun moves into curious Gemini & Moon into equanimous Libra. The élan between ‘The Lights’ therefore fluctuates between one of valued and solid practical service, to that of a wavering mind, one that seeks and has the potential to find balance.

This emphasis upon mind continues throughout the zodiacal month as Gemini is a smart Air sign, making one more aware that breath is mind’s vehicle to Spirit, as Sun now joins Mercury (at home in Gemini), Venus and Jupiter: our illusions can be blown away in the wind.

The 3rd of 7 Uranus Pluto squares is also in operation on the 20th. Broadly speaking this indicates dramatic collective transformation, a celestial challenge that began in earnest a year ago and won’t finish until March 2015. Hopefully, by then each individual awakes to make changes in body, speech and mind, to sustain health and happiness for all.

2015 might seem some time away but one thing is sure: we are NOW super-solar-charged from last week’s four X-flares, so the upcoming Saga Dawa Full SuperMoon lunar eclipse (yes, you read that right!) is cosmically bound to higher emotion and deeper vibration, when finding the middle way may be as simple as remembering the refuge we take in our faith and (inner) Guru.

_/♥\_

Image "Buddha Field & the Metatrone Cube' by Visual Alchemy, with thanks _/♥\_
Thank you, with love & growing Moonlight, Laura _/\_ ~> If you would like an astrology reading to provide personal insight into these cosmic times, please contact me here for rates.

Healing power of Nature - Sun in Taurus ✿ Moon in Leo

In many parts of the East, Buddha’s conception (or birth) is celebrated today, May 17th, at the first quarter moon, with Sun in earthy Taurus and Moon in fiery Leo. This very fixed and determined combination of ‘The Lights’ accents the value of the creative spark inherent in all beings. It’s also a medicine Buddha - Tara Moon, when the healing emphasis is upon stabilising self by connecting to the natural world.

It’s no coincidence that Buddha achieved enlightenment, taught, and died under a tree. Trees give a feeling of being rooted and supported by Mother Earth, which is helpful in Shamatha, calm abiding meditation, providing constant stability so we can rest evenly and realise the clear light of mind. Trees also purify the air, add oxygen and moisture to the atmosphere, and provide shade and shelter to animals (and meditators). So if you’re feeling slightly shattered in the middle of an eclipse season with no less than four Solar X-flares raising the vibration, as well as the 3rd (of 7) Uranus-Pluto challenge, awakening the collective transformation on May 20th, then go hug a tree and rejuvenate. Better still, meditate under one and discover the immense healing power of nature, and prepare for the illuminating Saga Dawa Full Moon lunar eclipse on the 25th. _/✿\_

Many thanksto Christopher Martin for this exquisite 'Sun Ring' in the Trees _/✿\_

Sparky Sky ~> X-flareS & Mars conjunct South Node - May13

There is good astral reason for feeling slightly apprehensive, not least because warrior Mars conjuncts the South Node over the next few days, which often means dealing with niggles or nags, or even bully boys and their explosive fragile egos. So watch out for hot and heightened emotion and get ready to placate others, as well as self, with skilful means: patience, wisdom and compassion. Tormenters can also be internal, such as personal anger or a previously buried resentment, greed or jealousy; applying the sweet healing balm of love and rejoicing in other peoples’ happiness are antidotes to such negative emotion, which would only create obscuration during this holy month of Saga Dawa. _/♥\_

Sparks are also flying in the sky: Sun had a Solar X1.7-flare at 2:16amUT (13th May 13) - and another BIGGER X2.8 at 16:05UT, both hurling into space copious amount of electromagnetic energy that covers the entire spectrum, from radio waves to gamma! Though not Earth directed, we can now expect the predictable solar powered auroras, usually a day or so after eruption (but can be much less). These flares are the largest of the year so far and also have all the markers I talked about at the Astrological Association conference last year (so I've been keeping a close eye on solar activity): notably Sun with its’ henchman Mars in connection to Saturn/Nodes, to create a realistic and karmic impact; AND Moon in connection to Pluto (by a wide opposition, but seems to be pertinent in solar flares when applying in aspect) so the effects are subtle but powerful, deep and meaningful, both psychologically and spiritually.

There’s more interesting celestial activity building towards the Saga Dawa Full SuperMoon on the 25th May, which started with the new Moon: The 17th is Medicine Buddha; and the 3rd (of 7) Uranus-Pluto square is on the 20th May, accenting transformational collective change.

☼☆•*¨*•.¸¸☾

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday are also favourable to raise prayer flags and send out blessings across land and sea! Have a good week, everyone! 
_/♥\_ૐ_/♥\_ૐ_/♥\_ૐ

Thanks to unknown photographer for Nepali prayer flags

Solar Eclipse 19° Taurus ~> May 9th/10th _/✿\_

KARMA MULITPLIED dayS x 100,000,000 ~> _/♥\_ૐ
                  ☆~☽☼☾~☆

In the northern hemisphere, Gaia now stirs the senses, spring flowers burst forth as nature performs spontaneous acts of love with new forms and shapes growing quickly day by day; colour, sounds and smells vividly stimulate a curious heart essence to blossom and bloom. In the southern hemisphere a new kind of freshness brings a different vision, beckoning one inward towards an intimate kind of warmth.

And so it is at each monthly conjunction of Sun and Moon, another lunation begins and a sense of the new begins to stir. With Sun and Moon now in fertile Taurus forming a Solar Eclipse on Friday morning at 1:27am BST (8:27pmEST 9thMay), a cosmic kind of consciousness has the potential to ride the celestial waves that flow between Sun-Moon and Earth to nourish body and soul, as well as dramatically innovate and stimulate the mindstream into blissful pristine awareness. Eclipses present a rare moment suspended in time, where the bounty of eternal beauty comes from aligning the dynamic Sun with our reflective Moon and Mother Earth.

It is at this point when the earthy Taurean equanimity of a determined male Sun and bountiful female Moon conjoin (energetically at third eye). In meditation we can create a sacred internal space that opens a powerful portal for magical human realization; worldly concerns can melt away and pale into insignificance. If you are in the Pacific, on a cloudless day you will see the Moon in front of the Sun, surrounded by a golden glow emanating the Sun’s light of intelligence. Wherever we are we can still tune-into and feel this very special phenomenon, when actions, thoughts and words take on a great karmic significance.

This Taurean lunation is the second of three eclipses. The previous was lunar, revealing the importance of letting-go of all that no longer serves, at the same time accepting personal responsibility for personal happiness. The next full moon will be another Lunar Eclipse, on May 25th. It will also be SakaDawa, celebrating Lord Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and Paranirvana. And now we have a Solar eclipse, accenting the light of Spirit being supported either side between these two yin Full Moons. These are potent weeks: While we have the cosmic tools to be mindful of the present, past-life and future life visions can deja-vu.

Yet still we might find the suffering we see around us touches that tender place within. Then we know the transformation of the heart is a personal journey, one that witnesses pain and still remain grounded and centred – engaged in goodness, but not overwhelmed by sadness. With six celestial markers in Taurus, the good life invites us to live more simply: give thanks, eat well, sleep well and practice well_/ ✿\_

Sun & Moon are also conjunct explosive Mars, informative Mercury, AND Pallas Athena, warrior woman strategist, bringing active plans into focus. But seeing as combative Mars is also stirring up action best cover all bases, and at least look at the pros and cons of plan B.

☆~☽☼☾~☆

Thanks to unknown artist for eclipse fractal _/♥\_ૐ

Dakini Day ~> May Day weekend :) _/✿\_ ♥ 2013

Spirit Sun in lush and fertile earthy Taurus, is now bonding with the Moon in watery and sensitive Pisces. This is the last major aspect between 'The Lights' before next week’s New Moon Solar Eclipse on the 9th/10th. Earth and Water are Yin in nature, emphasising calm stability and active healing devotion (to the Goddess within). Connect to Mother Earth now and soothe all the senses _/✿\_ This weekend is also an astrological ‘Fixed Cross’ point in the year, a time of connecting to the heart of the Sun, wherever you are, north or south, blessing all that you wish to grow, be it food or love, health or sacred intimacy.

By transforming selfishness into selflessness, and tuning into the life of the soul with the will of consciousness, one can give birth to, and manifest Divinity.

_/♥\_ૐ_/♥\_ૐ_/♥\_ૐ

Have a great May Day weekend everyone! ♥

Last Quarter Healing Tara Moon in Aquarius ~> May 2013

This last quarter Green Goddess Tara Moon in airy Aquarius opens the mind to the zany, wild and innovative. Keep eyes open to opportunity –especially the wisdom eye! ;) _/✿\_

This healing Moon is in a tight ‘T-square’ to the fertile Sun/Mars opposition to slow-moving Saturn, reflecting a slow-to-start spring (in the Northern hemisphere). Indeed, its only 6 weeks to Summer Solstice, when Saturn at last reaches the degree at which he begins to go forward, in early July. Meanwhile, patience when taking care of the heart-mind and soul, through diligent self-supporting work and overcoming obstacles, is as important as seeing where one stands and what motivates us in a group situation, even if only shooting the breeze with loyal friends. Connecting with others today, such as the cyber tribe or real life sangha, can even clarify and organise ideas and thoughts which facilitate personal change, as well as help generate (and employ) the altruistic intention, to be of benefit to all beings.

His Holiness, the Dalai Lama says "With a selfish attitude, one’s self is important, and others are not so important. According to Shantideva's advice, a technique to help in turning this attitude around is to imagine - in front of yourself as an unbiased observer - your own selfish self on one side and a limited number of other beings on the other side - ten, fifty, or a hundred. On one side is your proud, selfish self, and on the other side is a group of poor, needy people. You are, in effect, in the middle - as an unbiased, third person. Now, judge. Is this one, single, selfish person more important? Or is the group of people more important? Think. Will you join this side or that side? Naturally, if you are a real human being, your heart will go with the group because the number is greater and they are more needy. The other one is just a single person, proud and stupid. Your feeling naturally goes with the group. By thinking in this way, selfishness gradually decreases, and respect of others grows. This is the way to practice."

Image of Green Tara ~> "Om Tara Tutare Ture Soha" _/✿\_

May Day! _/✿\_ 2013

Diligence and patience are highlighted with dynamic Mars in slow-moving Taurus, now in direct opposition to the karmic Time Lord, Saturn, planet of limitation. When encountering anger and or frustration self-discipline and strength (of character) is helpful and REQUIRED to stay centred and on the middle path.

Bear in mind that we are presently at a cross-quarter point in the solar year, a time of obvious but natural change, as well as in ‘eclipse season’, when the interplay of Spirit Sun, sensitive Moon, and home planet Earth generates intense shifts (that potentially lead to revelation and spiritual awakening). These movements and shifts in consciousness can be physical, emotional, or psychological when letting go of the negative is imperative to rest in mind’s natural radiance and joy.

His Holiness, the Dalai Lama says that "Self-discipline, although difficult, and not always easy while combating negative emotions, should be a defensive measure. At least we will be able to prevent the advent of negative conduct dominated by negative emotion. That is 'shila', or moral ethics. Once we develop this by familiarizing ourselves with it, along with mindfulness and conscientiousness, eventually that pattern and way of life will become a part of our own life."- from "Live in a Better Way: Reflections on Truth, Love and Happiness",

Image is of the Drepung Monks patiently creating the Medicine Buddha Mandala __/❤\__

 Happy Beltane!

BeLOVEed Bees ~ April 2013

The big news this side of the Atlantic is how we’re celebrating European Union's ban on bee-harming pesticide (for two years, giving the bees a chance to recover and prove the pesticide destroys their colonies). Quite apart from almost 3 million signatures on one petition alone, there are several astrological factors which went in the bees favour, which I thought might be of interest to my fellow sky dancers.

In astrology, Bees are ruled by Jupiter, the benevolent sky god; the expansive King of the Olympians, Jupiter, is currently in hard aspect to Chiron, the wounded healer now in Pisces. The negative expression of the sign of the fish is toxicity, i.e. poisons. Thus now is time to heal all the sky god rules, BIG time, i.e. the Bees have a reprieve.

Interestingly karmic Saturn is presently found close to Spica in the night sky. Spica is a royal star attributed to the wheat sheaf in the hand of the Virgin Goddess. Now Saturn & Spica work together, he the reaper, she the fertile vessel of a ripened harvest. There is currently more than a grain of truth in the old adage "As we sow, so shall we reap..."

Also important to note this ban on the pesticide is happened under the auspice of Sun/Mars in down-to-earth Taurus, opposite karmic Saturn now in plutocratic Scorpio: Authority must see a financial gain, as well as a practical one.

One last observation is how we have Sun, Mars, Venus and the South Node, all in bountiful Taurus; as a lover of the good life, the Bull is the sign of food and flowers, and the gentle reminder of how common sense rules and the good life can be so simply achieved. ~> May all bees be healthy & free to buzz and create the divine nectar, honey.

Image is of Bhramari Devi, the Indian Bee Goddess, who resides inside the Heart chakra, her buzz emitting the essential sound of the universe _/♥\_

Sun Mars Mercury opposition Saturn ~April-May 2013

The Lights (Sun & Moon) present a see-saw dynamism today, swinging up-down from judgemental pessimism to enthusiastic optimism in fairly equal measures. Thus, for the spiritual practitioner, the middle path beckons, particularly when working on what’s important. Perform all tasks with a happy heart, as Spirit Sun and warrior Mars oppose karmic Saturn, accenting personal responsibility for duties and situations that challenge, demand patience and a practical application. Being disciplined can be incredibly rewarding and pave the way for accomplishment. Today's far-sighted Sagittarian Moon opposite Jupiter provides hope and optimism, especially when living in truth.

Be aware: there’s a tendency to gloss over veracity, loyalty and/or integrity with Jupiter square Neptune. So it’s good to be mindful that with over exuberant quackery one can fool oneself - and others - into thinking spiritual materialism is the real deal. Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche says that “As long as a person is involved with warfare (or conniving in ambition or relationship), trying to defend or attack, then his action is not sacred; it is mundane, dualistic, a battlefield situation.” The thoughts in brackets are mine, but here C.T. Rinpoche suggests the main work to do (especially this week, as Sun, Mars & Mercury sequentially oppose taskmaster Saturn in Scorpio) is upon the ego and letting go of egoic desire and delusion, however tough and laborious that may be Sun, Mars & Mercury do provide determination and stamina. And today we have jolly Jupiter to gee-up the sphere of benevolence and forgiveness, which can take the edge off being too hard upon anyone, especially ourselves.

Throughout this week, loving Venus conjunct the Taurus South Node is the astral reminder to always come from the HEART __/❤\__

Full Moon partial Lunar Eclipse in Scorpio ~ April 25th 2013

☆~☽☼☾~☆ KARMA MULTIPLIED DAY – positive or negative - X 7,000,000

Opposing Spirit Sun in earthy Taurus, the highly sensitive Full Moon at 20:58BST (15:58EST) conjuncts karmic Saturn in Scorpio, as well fixed star Spica, which suggests that while all the skills we need are at hand, adopting a long-term and patient approach to any deeply emotional and personal metamorphosis will bring success. Even though this is a short lunar eclipse – only 27 minutes – it is the first of this year’s series of Taurus-Scorpio eclipses, when transforming desire and attachment requires taking responsibility for one’s own happiness – however hard that might be, the rewards for doing so are liberating.

Be realistic. Know that Buddha nature is pure, bright and alive, radiating in the light of our being. Three planets in Taurus urge us to be practical: eat well, sleep well and live simply, fully in the NOW; but give ourselves a good 6 months as a yardstick to measure any deep and meaning psychological remodelling. When training the heart-mind we need to recognise how love overcomes our inner-most fears; and loving one’s own demons is even a means to releasing and letting go of negative obscuration.

Bear in mind the next new moon, May 10th, is a Solar Eclipse, followed by a penumbral Lunar Eclipse (not seen, but felt) on May 25th, which is also Sakadawa, celebrating Buddha's birth, enlightenment and paranirvana; Sakadawa also a SuperMoon, when tides are high and the earth can move – in more ways than one.

The above dates are optimum for the full-power meditation that can at once provide spiritual stability, as well as incredible emotional insight. Best prepare your sacred space and provide a safe and solid foundation for a rich spiritual practice that transforms personal values and shared resources. This is the year of the Water Snake, after all, and Scorpio is related directly to the transmutational Kundalini Shakti, Serpent Power and Divine energy __/❤\__ to be raised with tender care, discipline and love.

thanks to unknown artist for Buddha Earth _/\_

Guru Rinpoche Day ~ April 20th 2012

On the 10th day of any lunar month, Sun and Moon make what’s known in astrology as a ‘trine’ aspect, meaning La Luna is exactly one third into her lunation, and five days away from being full. This particular trine aspect is considered to be so important in Tibetan Buddhism that every month this day is known as ‘Guru Rinpoche day’, when we say prayers and make offerings to honour the Lama (our teacher) and our connection to the Lama’s heart, revealing one’s own Buddha nature.

The triangle relationship between planets is the best possible aspect to experience (in the horoscope). A 120° trine aspect bestows cosmic gifts and skills that can be easily developed and brought to fruition. Yet personal talents can be overlooked and underutilised because we often take them for granted. But when ‘The Lights’, Sun (action) and Moon (wisdom), are in this triangle formation during Moon's waxing phase, illuminating wisdom in action our gifts of are clear to see. As such, this particular trine aspect is deemed to be extremely fortunate as one is able, with the teacher’s insight and kindness, to swiftly overcome obstacles in order to accomplish fulfilment (enlightenment, even) at the time of the full moon.

So as Spirit Sun moves into steady Taurus tomorrow (April 20th) it makes this very special ‘trine’ to the sensitive Moon in healing Virgo; and the tempestuousness of the past few days should begin to dissipate and stabilise situations so that recovery, reconciliation and attention to detail can take place.

Having said that, no one aspect works alone: the planets are all interconnected; as Sun remains with fiery Mars throughout the upcoming eclipses – a partial Lunar eclipse on the Full Moon in Scorpio on April 25th, and the Taurus Solar eclipse May 10th, it suggests turning points are ahead, though the action is firm, steady and cautious, as opposed to rashly jumping into any situation head first. With Sun, Mars & Venus all in the sign of the Bull, patience comes to fore when harnessing resources, and the fruit of one’s actions begins to take shape __/❤\__

(✿◠‿◠) Breathe into the heart-mind, relax, and let the love flow during today's very special Guru Rinpoche day, which today holds a beautiful cosmic synchronicity__/❤\__

Why so special? Well, readers of Dharma Stars might recall how Jupiter is the heavenly Guru who, like Tibet's second Buddha, Guru Rinpoche, wields a thunderbolt of enlightenment directing with his dorje to the truth of illusion and the wisdom of Buddha nature. And today, Guru Rinpoche Day, Jupiter is at the very same degree of 2012’s once-in-a-life-time Venus transit. This won’t happen again, so tune into lucky Jupiter and Goddess Venus (now at home in Taurus) who opened the way for Jupiter to now exert his lightening flash of understanding. Enjoy the awakening zap, and be struck by the sage celestial teacher’s Light of Love! __/❤\__

Artwork is a close up of the heart of Dorje Chang by Heinz Hoes with thx ♥
Top Image is of Guru Rinpoche Rainbow emanation.

Mantra ~> Om Ah Hung Vajra Guru Pemma Siddhi Hung _/❤\__