New Leo Moon wields an indestructible dorje ☆ ♥ ☽~☼~ ☽ ♥ ☆ August 2010

A fiery new Leo Moon on the morning of the 10th August, at 17degrees Leo at 4:08 (BST), makes a dramatic display with a ‘Thor’s Hammer’ formation. This pattern accents the power of Spirit Sun combined with soulful Moon, and marks a month when self-expression and inspiration are fuelled by a thunderbolt of love and lightning creation.

Thor’s Hammer is an astral arrangement based on dividing the circle into eight; the pattern appears when a planet (or two heavenly bodies in this case) is at the apex of two planets, each (sesquiquadrate) 135 degrees apart, which are then connected to each other to form a 90 degree square. There are two different ways to read this quadriform, and neither suggest it’s an easy configuration (read challenging – as it stimulates a strong kind of T-square that rarely acquiesces without conscious attention): One method is to look at how the two planets in square create a tension, which then finds an outlet from the planet(s) they are pointing to, like an arrowhead. The other is that the planet(s) at the apex funnels energy into the square to force resolution of/in conflict. Either way, it’s an interesting dynamic, because it is always active. Even years later I still haven’t made my mind up if there is a definitive system for the hammer’s energy to flow, as much always depends on the individual’s scope – so I tend to watch all three points carefully.

In mythology, Thor’s Hammer, the ‘Mjöllnir’, belongs to the Norse sky God, who wields thunder and lightening across the stormy heavens, ruling the atmosphere to provide life-giving rains, guiding winds and sometimes tragic flash floods and cloudbursts, such as we have seen in Pakistan, Central Europe, China and lastly, in Leh, Himalayan India, (so close to my heart). Thor’s Hammer never misses a beat; even if small or used gently, it always hits its’ mark. Thor is also associated with the thunder-wielding Eastern sky God Indra, Roman Zeus, and Greek Jupiter, who all carry a thunderbolt. In Tibetan Buddhism, this thunderbolt is called a dorje (or Vajra in Sanskrit, a quintessential symbol of Vajrayana Buddhism).

As a sceptre held in the right (male) hand, the dorje symbolises manifold wisdom in action radiating in all ten directions and, as such, is a Tantric instrument we use in daily practice to represent immovable and indestructible skilful means, action with awareness, and to invoke and internalise crystal clear dynamic clarity (that comes after a thunderstorm). Thus diamond like clarity (Buddha nature) comes into focus with a bright Leonine Sun and new Moon forming the apex of our celestial hammer. When the Sun’s heartfelt core converges with our flowing emotional (moon) centre in the self-possessed fixed fire sign Leo, the conflict created by ego’s desires will be pinned fairly and squarely on the head. Thor’s Hammer urges us to be firm in our sense of positive purpose, and direct the changes we need to make in order to ride the fiery Lion and proceed in massive personal transformation.

Why transformation? And why so big and fiery? Well this is because the square (head?) of this Hammer is influence by key players in our tense Cardinal Cross: On one side we have expansive Jupiter with liberating Uranus, in the fire sign of Aries, instigating enormous change for the Spiritual Warrior; on the other corner of the tight square is Powerful Pluto helping us to intuitively feel our way and move through any dark tunnels by keeping sight of the growing clear light of wisdom. Pluto in Capricorn in Thor’s Hammer aspect to the new Leo Moon and Sun can also swiftly axe any drama kings or queens that thrive on crisis, or that which no longer provides support or luminosity.

The moral of this new moon, however, is to take extra care of how and where we direct and aim the concentrated focus (skt: dhrana and dyana) we need to achieve the non-dualistic state of consciousness, as indicated by the union of the Leo Sun and Moon. High concepts abound: truth, freedom and special insight can now be directed from a generous heart aligning sensitivity with enthusiasm. Remember how a nail not hit squarely will not align correctly; so make the most of this opportunity and focus upon kindling the warm heart of a unified Leo Sun and Moon - even if one has to self-generate joyful loving effort.

“When one comes to the Essence of Being,
The shining Wisdom of Reality
Illumines all like the cloudless sky”.
- Hundred Thousand Songs of Milarepa

Note: This lunation is building towards a full Moon of oceanic healing...

Cardinal Cross of Central Spiritual Sun ~ Lammas August ~ 2010

For the past few months the planets have been moving into a rare celestial formation known in esoteric astrology as the Cardinal Cross of the Central Spiritual Sun. With so many influential planets involved, I have to remark how this alignment is one I personally have never actually witnessed in thirty years of star-gazing – nor are am I likely to for quite some time to come (to be honest, I can’t find a similar set up in the next century). So we’d best be aware how this marks an intense period of accelerated evolution. This is because all the early degrees of motivated Cardinal signs are now working together to direct us towards our Spiritual centre, to locate our core so that we can rest in Divinity, a place we Buddhist types call 'our Buddha nature'.

Obviously, any kind of meditation practice will help one to remain aligned with our own Buddha nature during this period of potentially immense (global) change; and how this challenging Cross affects each individual, much will depend on the horoscope’s own slice of time. Indeed, while we have three planets in Libra, the sign of balance – and often reversal, we may sense that we are at a turning point, a place of choice where we can either carry on as always, or to move towards liberation.

For those choosing freedom (from attachment and aversion) and to become aware of his or her's own blissful eternity, we have time to stimulate our source, as Spiritual Sun, into the action of light and love, as this is a long drawn out configuration with moments of intense intellectual, psychological, spiritual and physical movement, such as this Lammas day of the 7th August (Lammas is the pagan fire festival of the first harvest – the ripening begins), when we once again witness this Cross in the sky, as the Moon moves into early degrees of Cancer to fully activate this very special Cardinal Cross.

As an aside, from our last Full Moon, on June 26th, to our New Moon on Tuesday August 10th, we are in poignant (solstice) moment when the Sun’s light of consciousness also illuminates the Cross formation – so it’s good to note which concerns are in focus at this time, as well as options available for resolution, because these will be worked on, expanded and transformed throughout the coming months.

The astrological nuts and bolts of this Cross are complicated, however; so bare with it as we explore the celestial dynamics associated with the emotional Cancer Moon in opposition to transformational Pluto in responsible Capricorn (conjunct the galactic centre), as these two lie across the midnight-midday axis; and expansive Jupiter conjunct awakening Uranus in dynamic Aries opposite loving Venus, active Mars and karmic Saturn in Libra, who are all now the sign of balance, and are our sunrise-sunset makers.

This is a lot to consider (even by a seasoned astrologer’s standards!); but when we think of the sky as a great big clock, and how the sun moves around all the major points, from sunrise to midday, to sunset and midnight, we can see how we now have powerful events taking place at all points, directing us to our spiritual centre.

These points in time are further understood when we look at a mandala, which is a multidimensional time machine - a magical circle where time, space, and the cosmic elements depict the eternal cycle of life. Round, like our twenty-four hour clock face, the mandala also has four main gates based upon the cardinal directions: East, South, West and North, these correspond to the sun’s daily path, the planets in their orbits, as well as astrologically to Aries, Cancer, Libra and Capricorn. Depending upon which mandala we look at, the mandala will also contain the symbolic Sun and the Moon, and in the Kalachakra Mandala we also have the planets and signs of the zodiac (Kala = Time, Chakra = Wheel). 

At the centre of the mandala resides an enlightened deity, who is in harmony with the cosmos. As all the gates of our heavenly Mandala (which can be likened to a Native American Medicine Wheel) are now activated, the firmaments reveal, how, all constellated at the same time, there are many ways to our Divine centre, where each of us can align mind and body to spirit, during this supremely powerful time of the Cardinal Cross of the Spiritual Sun. 

Throughout this period of opening to our Central Spirit it’s important to note where the planet Uranus is, especially with the relationship it makes to each individual horoscope, as Uranus is the Great Awakener, the planetary agent who brings about major change, often through opportunistic chaos and disruption that shows the way of innovation and universal development. While Uranus is now with expansive Jupiter in warrior Aries, the sign of an individual assertion and collective willpower, the changes we are currently witnessing are manifold – and personal energy, responses and emotions magnified. It is, however, a time of enormous potential, where the spirit of positive progress calls each and every spiritual warrior to raise our vibration and come from the heart centre, and do what is best for ourselves, our fellow beings and our Earth. 

Three planets in this cross are currently retrograde: Jupiter, Uranus, and Pluto; because the latter are generational, it suggests collective transformation is initially through a process of inner-metamorphosis: outward change being a manifestation of inner-change. Even when Jupiter and Uranus slip back into Pisces, from late August to February/March, they still form a Cross (through the ongoing T-square), which then becomes a mix of revisited mutability and asserting Cardinal. As Jupiter and Uranus both return to initiating Aries, the Cross will once again become solely the monthly Cardinal Cross, lasting until August 2011 (thought the cross finally ends in 2016), when the planets move into another formation, leaving only the square between Uranus – Pluto, which will then lasts for another four years in its’ series of no less than seven exact hits. These planetary alignments are incredibly rare: one can only image the increased awareness our planet will go through during the awakening of our Spiritual Sun.

As we will come up time and time again to this rare junction of many crossroads for the next year, I’m writing up an in-depth sign-by-sign guide (which will get posted up in the next couple of days); there’s not too much intricate Buddhist philosophy or astrology other that what is outlined here (promise!), so most everyone will be able to read his or her Sun sign/Rising sign, to see where Uranus and the other planets in the Cardinal Cross lie in their scopes, and be aware of what to expect and how best to deal with this dramatic period of evolution.

“With good will for the entire cosmos,
cultivate an infinite heart and mind:
Beaming above, below, and all around,
unobstructed, without trace of hostility.”
Sutta Nipata I, 8

Cardinal Tsquare, leading to Cardinal Cross ~ August 2010 (with more to come...)

The next few days could feel like we're walking on eggshells: one crack might be all it takes to create more stress and intensity and general edginess. Cardinal signs are in the hot seat. (Yikes, that's me!) In any event, by resting in one's CENTRE we remain in our spacious field of consciousness; from there we can use any nerves or fear to explore our true self, discover peace in relationship, as well as develop personal wisdom and spiritual power --> a pretty darn good opportunity, huh?

This astrology of the moment is rare and mega potent: because Libran Mars (in fall) dashes into the astral forray as it conjoins exalted Saturn (soon to be joined by Venus) who will oppose the Aries Jupiter/Uranus AND square Pluto ---> On Friday night/Saturday morning (6/7 August), when the Moon fleetingly moves into Cancer, we will have the monthly Cardinal Cross of the Spiritual Sun for the rare few hours, creating a magnificent opportunity to engage in spiritual practice.  

Note how the cute bunnys in Sandy Skoglun's 'Walking on Eggshell' art installation tame the scary snakes, making them into the sign of the Caduceus, the sign of healing.

The way through this (long-term and complex) T square between Jupiter/Uranus in Aries opposite Saturn in Libra, square Pluto in Capricon (which becomes a monthly Cardinal Cross of the Spiritual Sun when the Moon is in Cancer) is to REMAIN IN ONE'S CENTRE. How do we do that? By breathing and resting in the heart: inhale calm and exhale awareness...

& every so often we need to let out an AHhhh.....

"When we are relaxed, calm and open like a pool in a glade, the quality of our inner nature stands out clearly. We have a keen and direct perception of ourselves and our interaction with everything that is going on around us. Our energy is well-focused; able to think clearly, we can plan and organize our thoughts effectively. We are self-assured: We know what we want to accomplish, what our obstacles are, and how to dissolve them. We work with ease, moving fluidly, in tune with our work rather than resisting its requirements, simply doing what needs to be done."
-- Tarthang Tulku, Skillful Means

To continue click here for more of the Cardinal-Cross--2010 in action  

Many thanks for the image is of Amitabha, longlife Buddha, by Dordenma Bhutan

Stay tuned folks, for this rare alignment am in the middle of writing up a one-off sign-by-sign of how to handle the Cardinal Cross and what to expect... with love lx :)

♥ ☆ ♥ Perfecting the Heart Essence on the path to Freedom ♥ ☆ ♥ Full Moon July 2010

Every Full Moon is special. As the emotional Moon reflects the light of the Sun, together they illuminate with lucid clarity. Yet each moon is different as Sun and Moon course through the zodiac, moving signs, connecting to other wandering planets to make each moment in time distinctly unique. Some Moons are more unique than others. And this one accents highly positive cosmic connections, the likes of which I never seen before, because they herald from way beyond our solar system; so while you are moon bathing under tonight’s full moon, take a moment to absorb some of this Full Moon in freedom-loving Aquarius’ more spacey qualities. 

At 2:37am BST the Moon will be at 3 degrees of friendly Aquarius, opposite the bright Leo Sun. Leo represents our generous spirit - the perfection of the heart essence, while group-orientated Aquarius signifies the altruistic mind, as well as social networking and technology. The axis where these two signs align across an individual’s horoscope indicate the ways head and heart align to bring about love and romance, networking friendships and helpful alliances.

Incredibly, the Full Moon in Aquarius (on Monday 26th @ 2:27 British summer time) is actually on the very same degree from whence in the heavens the largest ever burst of gamma rays originated, arriving on planet Earth on this Summer Solstice, even knocking out Nasa’s telescope. Could this very high frequency resonance be some kind of cosmic nuclear pulsation that helps to elevate consciousness and irradiate collective density?
♥ ☆ ♥ The story of the gamma ray is here:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/science/space/7893771/Nasa-satellite-blinded-by-biggest-ever-star-explosion-seen-in-space.html

Doubly amazing, this week saw another Leo Sun – Moon in space-age Aquarius synchronicity, as a massive Sun beaming 300 times more light than ours was discovered along the same marker of the ecliptic (the path of the Sun) as this Full Moon. It’s an extraordinary coincidence how these two remarkable events should share the same degrees as the Full Moon; as in mundane astrology the Moon represents the people, and in hopeful Aquarius it indicates we can now embrace the future in the selfless spirit of heart felt co-operation, to co-create our global humanity where all beings can find happiness.
♥ ☆ ♥ Watch the space voyage to another sun: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUMIzrRKSY8

Since the advent of a massively rare configuration of planets lined up this year as the ‘Cardinal Cross of the Spiritual Sun’, we’ve had encouragement from the cosmos to confirm (and assist) our spiritual evolution;  this full moon links up rather nicely with the 'T square' made by Saturn, Uranus/Jupiter and Pluto in the Cardinal Cross, assisting in making postitive lasting changes. So the question remains: are we ready to raise our vibration and generate a magnanimous loving heart? Because the Universe seems to signal that we are.

Solar Eclipse July 11th ~ Uniting as One

The heavenly union of our radiant Sun and reflective New Moon takes on a greater significance during the Total Solar eclipse at 19 Cancer on Sunday July 11^th at 20:34 (bst), as a cosmic kind of consciousness has the potential to enter into our awareness.  A Solar eclipse reminds us to remain in our presence, aware nothing is permanent, not even the sunshine during the day.

With each monthly conjunction of Sun and New Moon, there is always a sense of the new stirring, within our heart-mind, emotions and intellect, as well as within our natural environment. But during a Solar eclipse, when the Moon passes in front of the Sun, time suspends in a sacred space to create a powerful portal for magical human realization. The partial eclipse begins at 18:09 (bst), total starts at 19:15 (bst) with the greatest eclipse at 18:34; total ends at 21:51 (bst) and partial ends at 22:57 (bst).  This eclipse is in effect for a total of five hours, with five minutes 20 seconds grand totality.

In fact, all kinds of energies, seen and unseen, can ride in with this dark moon conjunction. So it is most important to call in the Dharmapala, protector deities, and the Lama, as spiritual bodyguard, from afar - especially during meditation and prayer, as that is when we are more sensitive and open to emptiness and bliss. 
At a Solar eclipse duality disappears as dynamic and fiery Solar Yang manifests as Rahu Dragon’s head, merging with the Lunar Yin Ketu’s tail – at the forehead chakra - to unite as one.  For the duration of the greatest totally of the eclipse, in this case 5 minutes and 20 seconds, we can bide this celestial state of non-duality.

This year’s set of eclipses are in Moon ruled Cancer, as descending node, and karmic Capricorn ascending node. This Sun and Moon in feminine Cancer bonds the global family via the Mother’s womb and the primordial Goddess, where we find innate bliss in oneness; while the opposite node, Capricorn, accents karmic responsibility. Tibetans say that Karma is multiplied 10,000x during an eclipse day.

Spiritually this eclipse connects us to all pervading space, which is empty of inherent existence.  On a psychological level this corresponds to primordial feelings; through facing our darkest emotions, healing family fortunes, repairing ancestral connections and mending historical barriers by moving ahead cautiously.  How this eclipse actually manifests in our lives will depend upon where the eclipse degree lies in the horoscope and the aspects it makes to the individual chart. And it may take a while to see, as the effects of eclipses are said to last in the case of solar eclipses for as many years as minutes: This one is total and five minutes long, equalling five years of influence.  (The next total eclipse is 2013.) So it’s worth baring in mind the power of the intention during this very potent occasion.

That said, this eclipse actually makes some good aspects to other planets. Sun and Moon are conjunct the 'loyal and loving' asteroid Juno, and all three are in harmonious sextile to active Mars (and by extension Saturn), making it easier to purify karma and rid impure mental and physical afflictions.  

During eclipses our bioenergy, often called the chi or prana which constantly courses through the channels and nadis in our subtle body can ignite kundalini to rise to meet at the forehead chakra – the all-seeing eye, and even the crown chakra can open - which is why it is so very important to be psychically protected during these moments. 

Be prepared.  Note the breath and how left and right nostrils are performing. Before the actual eclipse tune into the subtle body and be aware of how the prana is flowing through you. Note which nostril is dominant; and how you feel. Are you hot, cold, humid or dry?  There are foods to eat to enhance or calm either of the main side channels: the right hand Sun and left hand Moon, (Pingala and Ida, (Roma & Kyangma (tib)). (Personally, I find it’s always handy to have a glass of water close by during eclipses and, being an emotional water sign, a tissue!).  Then during the eclipse, while sitting in the seven point Varocaina meditation position, focus upon the breath, directing the centre of your attention to the own heart, mirroring the convergence of energy at the Solar System’s heart of the Sun and keep the flame of love alight. 

We are currently coming to the end of the current ‘eclipse season’. Eclipses occur twice a year, coming in pairs with a lunar and solar eclipse.  The next lunar eclipse is Winter Solstice December 21^st and the Solar on the 4^th Jan 2011.  

On the 26^th June we witnessed the Full Moon lunar eclipse, one of the Full ‘Super Moons’ astrologers have been talking about for some time because it also generated a very rare celestial phenomena called the ‘Cardinal Cross’, or the ‘Cardinal Cross of the Central Spiritual Sun’ as it is known in esoteric astrology: a configuration which is directly implicated with the evolution of the human spirit. This Cardinal Cross now connects responsible Saturn in Virgo opposite outgoing Jupiter and altruistic Uranus, both now in Aries, to the eclipses of the Cancerian Sun and the Moon with transformational Pluto.  The key qualities this 2010 Cardinal Cross of the Spiritual Sun will brings about during the process of enlightenment and evolution are autonomy and motivation, contribution of talents, mastery of purpose – to synthesise all this one has to fully engage with life, and not let it pass us by.

To be honest, in thirty years of heavenly observation, the planets have rarely been so chock-full of such powerful potential.  How this manifests could remain to be seen until after the New Moon solar eclipse on Sunday, when we will be ushering in a barrage of powerful new energy.  

With so many influences all converging within this tense formation, we may all in one way or another have reached our own personal crossroads. This Cardinal Cross promotes Saturn to speak of discipline and career concerns, but in opposition to expansive Jupiter with Uranus, we’re asking for co-operation, to express our own uniqueness; while the Sun represents individual spirit, Pluto can be controlling in the midst of chaos and drama. You get the picture: It’s an evolution which may not be so easy. 

To make this development, we may be looking at various different routes: maturing wisdom and authority; polishing our professional services; becoming more actively involved in issues that rouse; releasing anything that no longer serves our positive progress: all these are ways in which we can be free of our fetters in order to welcome the new with this upcoming Solar Eclipse.  And because Uranus and Jupiter are involved, we may also be looking at bigger, collective issues, galvanised to be more responsible at work, with others, about ourselves, and the planet. These are huge issues which demand care and attention, treating ourselves with the kind of love that a mother shows her child. Similar sensitivity needs to be given to everyone around us, as no one seems exempt from the kind of dramatic changes currently taking place.  Be aware how tidal forces will be strong if not extreme during these next two weeks; this can mean our internal emotions can soar to wild heights then plummet into shocking depths, this can also be externally seen with the weather; more specifically because this is a water ruled new Moon in Cancer, as well as a Solar eclipse, our oceans and all water comes into focus: flash floods, mudslides and even quakes are all likely in hot spots. The point here for the spiritual being is to remain calm and coolly ride any turbulent energy as best we can, to maintain the positive vibration.

Interestingly, we also have a comet streaking through the sky in the same area as the position of the Sun (Spirit), and as it is now closest to the earth, it also has the longest tail in history. We can catch it in the sky at dusk in early July. Comets are generally considered difficult omens for those in authority. This once-in-a-life-time visitor, Comet McNaught, came into view while transiting Perseus, the Hero; at the same time it was also announced a new star was born in the same constellation: the new hero for our times could well be the spiritual warrior, as opposed to the war hero. The comet will be visible during the Solar eclipse on July 11th, when the Moon blots out the light of the Sun, but can only be seen from the South Pacific, on Easter Island (where I'd love to go!).


With all this wild celestial activity, something is cosmically bound to break through and awaken during this Cross, stormy as it may be. Although everything outlined here is not all that easy, people rarely want to move out of a perceived comfort zone, even if sleeping on a bed of nails - only the deeply sensitive are seemingly aware of the potential of this situation. Heartening to know we are nearing critical spiritual mass, encouraging all paths to meet at the Central Spiritual Sun. This alone will have some kind of evolutionary impetus. Exciting times! Even if they are not so carefree we can still cultivate the light heart.

Illuminating Spirit ~ ☼ ~ Summer Solstice & Lunar Eclipse 2010

In the language of the Spiritual Warrior, or even the modern Light Worker, the Sun is referred to as ‘The Great Illuminator’ or ‘The Light of intelligence’ and ‘the Spiritual Centre’ which freely radiates warmth, love and light, in which, in the right proportions, all life thrives. The Sun, it has also been postulated, even has a consciousness of its own. Indeed, in the horoscope, we note how the Sun symbolises personal consciousness: for the Sun in astrology is individual identity central to one’s being, determining who we are growing into (which can take a lifetime), and the dominant issues we are processing and learning, in this life; Yang in quality, the Sun is also authority, ego, father and boss. 

I was reminded, just before I did my solstice practice, that when the Sun is at standstill, it is creating a 'gap', like 'the gap' in meditation that happens inbetween the out breath and the in, the pause in which we rest that sometimes makes it seem like we are in Samadhi - until we realise that we are in that gap, and then of course we headlong back into Samsara! Such is the nature of mind.

The Sun is also central in Buddhist thangka paintings, where we view many a deity beaming love-light seated upon a Sun disc; in Tantric meditation we imagine some deities seated upon a Sun disc, who are then placed at our heart, so that we, too, can learn to radiate unconditional loving kindness and compassion – just like the actual Sun. In astrology, the physical heart is also ruled by the Sun, mirroring how the Sun is at the heart of our solar system. Esoterically speaking, the Sun has a triple function: a physical form, as a heart centre, and spiritual illuminator. When we mindfully raise our vibration and encourage our own Sun to radiate from the spiritual centre, we overcome ego’s desire and aversion to realise Divine consciousness as an awareness of personal Unity with the enlightened source – and bask in our own luminous golden wonder, so to speak.

Summer makes everyone smile, and with light heart we witness the Sun peak at its highest point in the sky in the northern hemisphere, at 12:28 British Summer Time, on Monday the 21^st (-5EDT). The word Sol comes from Latin, for Sun, while ‘stice’ means to ‘stand still’. For the next couple days the Sun stands at its zenith, before heading south again shortening the days in northern skies. 

Yet this is no ordinary Solstice. At this 2010 turning point, the Sun is in an almost perfect planetary pattern, a rare Cardinal Cross, which in esoteric astrology is called The Cardinal Cross of the Central Spiritual Sun’, suggesting many are awakening to the fiery heart of love as a means to understanding self in relation to the world, communicating in a manner more considerate of others. This Cross has building for a while now (most of 2010), getting more intensely ‘connected’ over these past few weeks, pointing to the dramatic change which brings all kinds of different paths together, and uniting people, things and ideas, to present new openings which enable one to regain balance through action, stability through transformation, awareness through unity.

Although this cross is made up of the four cardinal signs, Aries (where Jupiter & Uranus are), Cancer (Sun), Virgo/Libra (Saturn), Capricorn (Pluto & Ceres), everyone will feel it, because the transpersonal and generational planets are involved. Because it is (mostly) Cardinal in quality, it is a Cross which indicates movement - dynamic action with spiritual intent. The solar light of the solstice Spiritual Sun continues to radiate power and strength over the coming weeks, with influential upcoming eclipses. The full Moon lunar eclipse on the 26^th June almost perfects the Cardinal Cross (But not quite! That will happen when Saturn moves back into lovely Libra, and will be exact when the moon Moves into Cancer (which it rules) on Aug 6th (when the Sun will be in Leo, which it also rules, but as Leo is a fixed sign, it will not be in the Cardinal Cross formation).

Why this upcoming Solstice and Full Moon are strong is because during eclipses, Lunar on June 26^th, and solar July 11th, we encounter major trigger points for earth changes (and being only one or two degrees out of exact sign on a powerful planetary alignement is nothing in the greater scheme of things) making this a very potent celestial Cross formation (and much more powerful than January's eclipses) and events around it are likely to demand action. 

 

There is also another cosmic Solstice formation, a Grand Air Trine, between communicative Mercury at home in Gemini, the sensitive Moon in Libra, sign of balance, and spiritual Neptune in the altruistic and intellectual sign of  Aquarius. This is a forceful energy that can condition consciousness: the Buddha said ‘what we think we become’ – an apt thought to hold in mind during the Sun’s high point. It may take a while to see the results of any subjective intent.  While this formation holds solstice, when the Moon is full on the 26th, and conjunct powerful Pluto, la Luna activates a mighty magical transformation, which the Spiritual Warrior can harness, and indicate the kind of direction we need to take - giving ourself the next eighteen years to complete the task.

Wtih a flow of golden solar nectar from the angelic messenger, the Sun/Mercury conjunction, to the receptive full Moon eclipse and oceanic Neptune conjunct Chiron, suggests we can even heal the oceans - as well as our collective emotions. The responsive Moon rules water, and is remains in good aspect to Neptune which governs deep seas, in Aquarius initiating the focus of Universal Mind. This is spiritual service: As Masaru Emoto advises as part of the healing, we need to let the water know we love it, and ask for forgiveness. 

In the Tibetan tradition, this Solstice happens to also be Guru Rinpoche Day, a day of celebrating our connection to the Guru (within). Its not always like this, as it is for the Christian St John on a set day. Guru Rinpoche day moves around the moon. Also called Padmasambhava, Guru Rinpoche is the all-powerful male presence we invoke to help overcome obstacles, as he is said to be the second Buddha, protector and most accomplished yogi. We can all upon this strong male active yang principle at any time, not just for solstice. Should you feel inclinded to sing his mantra while Sun Dancing with the Moon weave, he can help one to centre and overcome all kinds of hurdles “Om Vajra Guru Pemma Siddhi Hung”

Love and Gratitude as always to the Visual Alchemist, Bill Brouard for 'fiery angel' and 'unconvential commincation goes sub-aquatic' http://en-gb.facebook.com/pages/Visual-Alchemy/307201723841?ref=ts
and all other unknown artists_/\_♥ ૐ

Awakening the Spiritual Warrior ★ ☮ ★ New Gemini Moon 2010

“Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart…. Who looks outside dreams; who looks inside, awakens.” C.G. Jung

An entirely new lifestyle bursting with clarity and positive activity has the potential to successfully emerge from a decidedly murky past. Over this coming decade, and more specifically over the next couple of years, on a large scale and through mass spiritual awareness, the heavens now suggest that we can generate a happier and healthier world through vibrant cooperation and co-creation. Before this transformation becomes apparent in our own personal sphere, serious questions need to be addressed by everyone; and the answers lie within our heart of hearts: Are we ready for a shift in consciousness, which could involve a massive leap of faith? Are we brave enough to embrace the new with an open mind, willing to let go of the old paradigm: that of growth as the only way to development? Are we ready to evolve by lightening our load, pairing down, and therefore enabled to embrace a sustainable new way of living?

Most people are aware, to some degree or other, how we cannot continue as we have done, as world events and personal reactions bring home imminent change. For the observant few it has been like watching the untenable future disappearing before our very eyes. When Jupiter and Uranus recently conjoined in the last degree of oceanic Pisces, we witnessed an ecological marine tragedy unfold. The Element water is linked to human emotions. As oil leeks into the ocean collective compassion arises at the same time as confused and overwhelming feelings mix with wanting to be responsible, to help survive catastrophe. Yet the sight of man-made calamity seems to have an even more powerful effect upon our compassionate nature and we are possibly prepared to surrender to our addiction to oil. Through horrendous muddied seas a positive message has come through, as it has now become clear that we cannot carry on as a species abusing earth’s resources. Another way beckons.

There is little time to lose in waking-up to alternative solutions or setting an intention to work on the new and improved, as the two influential planets have now joined forces in fiery Aries, adding initiative and impetus to swiftly direct individual and collective spontaneous change. Expansive Jupiter and electrical Uranus have moved on from Pisces (but will revisit Pisces again*), together they illuminate our cosmic psyche like a giant heavenly spotlight, shining a light upon the path of the Spiritual Warrior, so we can act with confidence, engaging with the world at the same time as dramatically modify our objective and all we previously identified with. Should anyone want to stay locked into the outworn competitive model of selfish mores, the chances are they will remain forever unaware of his or her own true nature, and end up dealing with the same old darkness manipulated by fear and paranoia, instead of basking in the radiant love-light and innate goodness that emanates from the human heart.

From the Buddhist viewpoint, Jupiter is the Dorje-wielding master of Truth - A wise and kindly Guru who understands the nature of reality, how the five elements work with the sixth element, the light of consciousness, uniting the subtle energies of the psycho-anatomical-spiritual body. And how, through mindful mediation of the eight-fold path, one can utilise such wisdom to greater beneficial affect. Uranus is often referred to as ‘The Great Awakener”, often jolting us into mindfuness through sudden flashes of awareness. As meditators we can practice to awaken to this awareness by placing our concentration upon the third eye, the area between the eyebrows (as Uranus rules the pituitary gland). Uranus is also known in astrological parlance as eccentric and humanitarian; with Jupiter it could be crazy wisdom working hand in hand with an altruistic intention to bring alive the Spiritual Warrior, who dares to face his own demons when the Sun in Gemini emphasises taming the mind.

This weekend on Friday/Saturday 12^th, the new moon in Gemini throws the switch setting the mind buzzing with new ideas to help understand the complex dualistic nature of opposites, such as ego and non-self, body and soul, scientific and mystical. The point here, at the start of this lunar month, is not to feel pressurised by peers or authority, but to use the altruistic awakened mind to analyse for oneself and see what works best for one’s self, as an individual, right now, so that each one of us can be of greater benefit to humanity.

A good addition during meditation for this Gemini new Moon is to ‘feel’ the psychic energy of the etheric body around the corporeal body; allowing airy Gemini’s role as the mercurial messenger of the light to fill our body with prana on each inward breath, connecting mind to spirit, and let the light infuse into every pore, hold the light-filled breath for a moment, before releasing stress and strain with the out breath. We can do this for as long as we like, anywhere we like: on the bus, in a bank queue, in a traffic jam, we can direct attention to the breath anywhere. Using the radiating presence of each breath as a naturally moving progression towards a rapid perfection allows us to develop insight, so that our decisions are made more easily.

Working towards the Full Solstice Moon on June 26^th, which is probably the strongest moon of the year as it is not only a lunar eclipse, but Sun and Moon are central to the Cardinal Cross of 2010, with Jupiter/Uranus opposite Saturn in square to the Sun and Moon; the Moon is also conjunct Pluto. While this may also be a time of tension and stress, it is also when we can each find deep inside of us an autonomous way to motivate the Spritual Warrior to seek the point of integration, to find that internal balance and contribute and collaborate with a real sense of purpose to the Triple Gem of Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, and all our relationships, family, friends, and community.

*Jupiter retrogrades from 24 July, going back into Pisces from September 9^th, to station at 23degrees Pisces on 19^th November, coming back into Aries 22^nd January 2011.

*Uranus retrogrades from 6^th July, going back into Pisces 14^th August; to station at 26 degrees Pisces, coming back into Aries on the 12^th March 2011.

Training the mercurial mind ~ Mercury in Gemini

Mercury in Gemini 10 June 10

Mercury is the planet of the mind. Our celestial messenger moves quickly through Gemini, his home sign, making sure our anntena is alert to all kinds of helpful & healing information (on a relative level).

On the ultimate level: "What is the mind? It is a phenonmenon that is not body, not substantial, has no form,... no shape, no color, but, like a mirror, can clearly reflect objects."
Lama Zopa Rinpoche

Interesting mental exercise to quickly train the mind

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6KKyPjnhjI

And this (though am not sure it is Tibetan): http://angelmessages.paradisenow.net/tibetan_exercise_of_paradox.html

Dorje-wielding towards 'The Great Awakener' ~ Jupiter Uranus conjunction 0 Aries 2010

☆ ♥ ☽ ~ ☼ ~ ☽ ♥ ☆ Our Central Spiritual Sun is awakening as we approach summer solstice and enter a period of greater solar activity. The astrological Cardinal Cross of 2010 is now underway as expansive dorje-wielding Jupiter conjoins Uranus, the 'Great Awakener', at 0Aries on Tuesday, for the 1st time in 83 years. ☆ ♥ ☽ ~ ☼ ~ ☽ ♥ ☆

The radiating Sun, as the Divine Light of spiritual intelligence, is exalted in Aries, initiating the will to unify and to bring about synthesis. The sign of the fiery Ram denotes the strength of the spiritual warrior who brings about the fusion or integration of the personality, the one-ness of personality, psyche and spirit, and the unification of humanity with conscious evolution, for the founding of Shambhala.

Interestingly, the last major aspect either of these two planets, Jupiter & Uranus make before their meeting at the starting point of the zodiac, is to the Moon, suggesting we, the people, are very much in tune with the collective cosmic current.
☆ ♥ ☽ ~ ☼ ~ ☽ ♥ ☆ Shine on, dear friends, each a sacred star ☆ ♥ ☽~ ☼ ~ ☽ ♥ ☆