Vedic Astrology December 2016 – January 2017

 

The Vedic Astrology of the transition of 2016 into 2017 supports our ability to commit to the causes important to us, connect with our family, friends, and loved ones, and to embrace the transition of new paradigms of wisdom. While the archetypes of Jyotish, or Vedic Astrology, can provide us information about trends and transitions, it is up to us to do the work through our dedicated practice, to best harness these energetic qualities. Align yourself with your values, be the change you wish to see in the world, and dedicate yourself to devotion. Harness the energy of this time with clarity.

December 11
Mars enters Aquarius, the sign of social causes and service, and will remain there until January 20. Mars is the planet of enthusiasm and passion toward our goals, especially when we can defend something that’s wrong and ideally fix it. You may find yourself ready to step up now and dive headlong into more social activism. Make sure to not overdo it and become combative. But now is the time to speak out and align yourself with people and causes that allow you to walk your talk in the world and be the change you want to see.

December 13
The Moon will be full in Taurus today, which brings contrast to the Sun in Scorpio. This full moon cycle helps us harmonize the intensity and dynamism of Scorpio with the stability of Taurus. The Moon is exalted in Taurus due to Taurus’ consistency and materiality. While it can be easy to become seduced by emotional drama with the Sun in Scorpio, this Full Moon in Taurus helps us relax into a deeper sense of peace and connection with our family and other loved ones.

This Full Moon happens in Mrigashira Nakshatra, which is symbolized by a deer wandering through the forest, curiously exploring its surroundings. Feel that sense of peace, family, and curiosity now on this Full Moon.

December 28
The Sun and Moon come together today in Sagittarius, which begins a new cycle focused on hope, inspiration, and higher purpose. For the next 30 days we will be focused on what inspires us or what disappoints us. Often they are the same thing. That may sound ironic, but it is not. Being disappointed with one type of teaching or teacher compels you to seek another who you more relate to more effectively. Be vigilant and able to recognize to false teachers or overly simplistic answers to complex problems. While influenced by Sagittarius, we may be tempted to follow the simple belief that doesn’t require our inquiry and understanding.

This New Moon happens in Mula Nakshatra, a cycle related to the goddess Kali, the destructive force of the universe. This destruction is necessary for greater wisdom. Your old paradigm has been destroyed and you must resurrect hope from the ashes of the past.

January 12
Today the Moon is full in Gemini, exactly opposite the Sun in Sagittarius. This Full Moon in Gemini provides intellectual contrast to the faith-inspired Sun in Sagittarius. Now we must apply inquiry and introspection to our beliefs, and reflect on whether or not they actually make sense to us. This takes intellectual courage, playfulness, and curiosity—which are qualities of Gemini. If our beliefs cannot stand up to scrutiny, they will be of no benefit to us. Now is the time to challenge what you believe and why. This includes asking a lot of questions of your teachers.

This Full Moon happens in Punarvasu Nakshatra, related to the inspiration that comes from knowledge and the need to bring that knowledge into the heart.

January 20
Mars enters Pisces, the sign of mystical awareness and devotion, where it be until February 28. This is the transit of spiritual warrior energy ushering in a powerful month of spiritual practice and emotional courage. Being disciplined, especially when it is applied to devotion, is supported now. At first it may be tough to channel the frustrations of Mars, but persist and connect to your heart. It’s also a good time to passionately pursue your individual creativity and a good month for your yoga practice.

January 26
Saturn enters Sagittarius, where it will be off and on for the next two-and-a-half years. This is an important long-term transit showing a shift in our commitments and priorities. Saturn has just gone through a two-and-a-half year transit through Scorpio, which revealed a dark underbelly, but also supported inner emotional work. The current transit of Saturn in Sagittarius (for the next two-and-a-half years) shows us focusing on what inspires us, rather than what we fear. Commit to what inspires you. Make it something good. Your sense of purpose will be on trial now.

January 27
The Sun and Moon come together now in Capricorn, the sign of practical effort toward our goals and achievement. The next 30 days will revolve around integrating what inspires us and making long-term commitments accordingly. Hopefully the things that inspire us, and that we believe in, are authentic and worth our time, attention, and commitment. If they are worth it, then we build a life that supports who we truly are. If not, we build a life based on materialism, money, and other transient things that eventually disappoint us.

This New Moon happens in Shravana Nakshatra, related to Lord Vishnu, the maintainer of the cosmos. Now is the time to listen closely to the heart, adjust, and act accordingly.