The Planets of August, 2018: We Start the Month With 3 Planets in Retrograde Status

AUGUST 2018 – I am creating this Blog post a week late. Will I blame it on the retrograde planets? You bet I will! (plus a residence move a few days ago). We start this month with three planets in retrograde motion: Mars, Saturn and Mercury – and the latter is also combust the Sun. Thus do not be surprised at experiencing challenges, delays and unexpected obstacles.  Plus, not to forget, we are still recovering from the one-two punch last month of the partial solar eclipse, and total lunar eclipse. It’s a real “planet soup” of intense energies right now for us as individuals, society and the planet.

August 1st – VENUS, great benefic, symbolizing beauty, art, music, comforts and partners, entered Virgo, its sign of Debilitation.  It remains there until September 1st.  Ironically, Venus brings some helpful financial gains to those with Virgo Ascendants or Moon signs, due to the houses it rules for them, even though its energy is weakest when it is debilitated in that sign.  Venus rules Taurus and Libra. It’s a good house placement for those with Taurus Rising or Moon signs in their natal charts, for this is their 5th house of children, success, learning ability and romance. It’s more challenging for the Libras, as Virgo represents their 12th house of loss and expenses, solitude and isolation.

August 1st – MERCURY began traveling too close for comfort to the Sun this day, bringing more edginess to the field of communication in general (and that, added to the fact that this planet is in retrograde now, until August 18th). As usual, those with Virgo or Gemini Rising of Moon signs will feel it the most, as Mercury rules their sign. In addition to communication and any equipment that deals with same, Mercury represents commerce and trade, as well as diplomacy and tactfulness.  All of these qualities will be strained and frayed at the edges during this time. Mercury gets out of combustion on August 16th.

August 11th – Partial solar eclipse in the sign of Cancer.  Those who may feel it the most are the Cancer and Leo Rising and Moon sign people. Once again, we are fortunate that it will NOT be visible in the USA, so the influence will not have as big of an impact on us here. The eclipse will start out over the North Atlantic Ocean and Greenland, moving north and east so that the shadow simultaneously moves toward Iceland, northern Europe and the northern polar regions. Continuing its path over the top of the planet, the shadow will be wide enough to cover most of northern Russia from east to west. It will then dip down into Mongolia, China and surrounding areas.

August 16th – The SUN enters Leo, its own sign, where it is strong and powerful. Those with Leo Rising or Moon signs, will benefit from this strengthening of the ruler of their charts. However, it can contribute to both their leadership qualities AND being a bit top-heavy on ego or arrogance during this one month transit. Cancer chart individuals benefit from having their 2nd house of wealth, family and communication strengthened. Cancerians have already had enough to put up with rough and volatile Rahu crossing their sign since September 9, 2017. And Rahu and Ketu do not change signs until March 23, 2019, so both Cancers and Capricorns have to dig in and just “handle it” until the nodes leave their respective signs. Remember that there are planetary “yagyas” – ancient Vedic remedies, to allieviate the intensity you may be feeling. Just contact me for some references to these services, which I enjoy utilizing myself.

August 27th – MARS goes direct motion. Well, that’s a step in the right direction.  Remember that Mars has been crossing Capricorn, its sign of exaltation, which would be great for Capricorn Rising and Moon sign people, were it not for the fact that malefic Ketu (south node of the Moon) is also traveling there with it.  Now Mars will march forward once more, but does not change signs and thus get away from Ketu’s hindering influence until November 5th. Otherwise, the Capricorns would enjoy the burst of drive, energy, courage, clarity and initiative that Mars is trying to bring them, as well as some good karma with real estate. There will still be some of those benefits to a good degree. It’s just that Ketu hinders or degrades otherwise promising situations.

Please refer to my last month’s blog to review the significance of retrograde planets and eclipses.

All the best, from the Sunshine Corner, here in Boulder, CO.  Tel: 720-448-3742.  Thank you for referrals you send me.  I offer many services such as: natal chart readings, yearly updates, couples compatibility or astrocartography (location) readings.  If you would like to book an appointment for yourself, or as a gift for a family member or dear one, please call me, and we can schedule a 90 minutes, recorded session.  Thank you, Mary Stevenson, Vedic Astrologer, healingevents@yahoo.com http://www.vedicstarcharts.com

Vedic Astrology Planets of June

Summer is off to a nice start, and June should be a fairly mild month in terms of the dance of the planets, compared to July with two eclipses coming up then.

I feel to remind everyone that however the planets are aligned in your natal chart, we all came in with just the perfect set up to accomplish our soul’s purpose in this life.  Having looked at many thousands of birth charts in these past thirty years, I am filled with compassion and respect for the courage it took to pile on our plates various karma and challenges. I thoroughly believe that our soul selects the date, time and place to be born, just as it selects the family into which we are born.  As we progress in our journey, don’t we all look back and see how much we have grown, having learned valuable lessons from the most difficult chapters of life? The planets create the timing of those chapters, but it is we who wished to walk through them in our human form and set up those conditions prior to birth.

6/08/18 – VENUS moves into water sign Cancer, bringing some relief to this sensitive sign, which has been bombarded with the roller coaster ride that lunar node RAHU has brought to those with this Rising or Moon sign since 9/09/17.  Venus represents love, affection, beauty, the Arts, and comforts, so brings these experiences to Cancerians now. Rahu stands for passion, among other things.  The combination of these planets conjunct in Cancer may bring some delightful surprises to our Cancer friends. Venus remains in this sign until July 4th.

6/09/18 – MERCURY enters its own sign of Gemini, bringing greater intellectual clarity and empowering those with Gemini Rising or Moon signs.  To have the ruler of their sign now in their first house strengthens these individuals. It is also very good for Virgos, also ruled by Mercury, as it will now be transiting their tenth house of career, power, name and fame. Both signs may feel more playful now (especially the Geminis) and communication should be flowing. Projects dealing with commerce, i.e. buying and selling, will also flourish more.

6/15/18 – The SUN begins its one month journey through Gemini today, joining its friend Mercury there.  Leos should enjoy this influence of the lord of their charts passing through their eleventh house of income, gain and fulfillment of desire.  Geminis gain more energy and will be busy with numerous projects.  The Sun brings a lot of “heat” their way though, so it’s important not to get overheated physically and also avoid arguments and quarrels as the ego could feel strong right now. 

6/17/18 – More good news for Geminis and Virgos, as Mercury becomes non-combust the Sun today. This is beneficial, overall, for all of us, helping communication become smoother, more tactful and diplomatic.

6/25/18 – MERCURY enters Cancer. Still good house placements for our Mercury-ruled friends, Gemini and Virgo. This is the second house of wealth, family and communication for Geminis, connecting them in a positive fashion with these areas of life. It is the eleventh house of income and gain for the Virgos.  Enjoy it while it lasts!  Cancer Ascendant and Moon people may feel more chatty than usual, and engage in some writing. They may also feel a little more inward though, since Mercury rules their twelfth house of seclusion or isolation. Foreign travel could be a possibility.

6/26/18 – MARS becomes Retrograde. Already situated in Capricorn, its sign of Exaltation, which has made it plenty strong, now Mars becomes even more powerful. It rules Scorpios, and this third house position will make them feel courageous, active, having ambition and drive to get much accomplished. Though we cannot forget that it is traveling there with tricky Ketu. These two planets are now, and will be then, within close proximity by degree. Thus Ketu absorbs even more Mars energy. In a way, it is like having TWO Mars planets in this Earth sign! Good luck with that, Capricorns. You know what I mean.  Harness the energy, is my advice, without letting it go sideways on the wild goose chases that Ketu may like to introduce. Mars helps you have clear focus and helps your ambition, drive and ability to accomplish things now, too.  As I cautioned one client with Capricorn Ascendant, Mars can also bring accidents….and the client reported that a fender bender did occur. Ketu just brings in a tricky, monkey wrench component to practical Capricorns’ best laid plans!  Mars also rules Aries, and for those with this Rising or Moon sign, this position is your tenth house of career, name and family, position and personal power. Thus this transit can support your goals well, as long as you keep the Ketu influence in mind. One thing Ketu can bring is addictions of some type. So all Ascendant and Moon sign people referred to in this paragraph certainly need to be mindful to stay away from those.

All the best, from the Sunshine Corner, here in Boulder, CO.  Tel: 720-448-3742.  Thank you for any referrals you may send me.  I offer many services such as: natal chart readings, yearly updates, couples compatibility or astrocartography (location) readings.  If you would like to book an appointment for yourself, or as a gift for a family member or dear one, please call me, and we can schedule a 90 minutes, recorded session.  Thank you, Mary Stevenson, Vedic Astrologer, healingevents@yahoo.com

 

 

Jupiter photo

January, 2018 – Planets in the Vedic Sky

First, an overview of highlights for 2018, and then I’ll touch on the planet moves for January.

Cancer Rising and Moon sign folks will have to make peace with all the changes that Rahu passing through that sign will bring them throughout 2018.  Cancerians enjoy the peaceful pleasures of home life, but Rahu likes to cause chaos and unexpected events. Change is the “constant” for the year ahead, and possible dealings with “foreigners.” Rahu also stands for transformation, so we can visualize positive changes, if we are willing to embrace growth.

Across the zodiac, those with Capricorn Ascendants or Moon signs are experiencing the transit of Ketu, the south node of the Moon, through their sign. It stands for “hindrance and degradation” so there may be much soul-searching going on, some shyness, and even psychic experiences. Ketu can also bring a sudden mobilization of energy and a sudden manifestation of events. It is the other half of Rahu, the cosmic serpent, so unrest is likely, but again, can be used as a tool for greater understanding of one’s deeper nature, and for growth, if we decide to not resist the experiences it is sure to bring.  In addition, SATURN, ruler of Capricorn, is passing through their 12th house of isolation, seclusion, loss and expenses. This also can bring a focus on spiritual development and enlightenment.

Scorpios are enjoying a nice break now that Saturn finally moved from their sign on 10/26/2017. That is the first time for Scorpios to be free of the heaviness and restrictions Saturn can bring, for the previous 2.5 years. There are more good things to look forward to in the coming year, depending on the transits of Mars, lord of your chart (watch my blog posts, or get a yearly reading with me), and the icing on the cake is benefic Jupiter, friend of Mars, moving into Scorpio on 10/11/2018.

For Libras, Jupiter is not their best planet, based on the houses it rules. Until it moves out of their sign on 10/11/2018, it will bring more work, service to perform, and various projects. That won’t wear you out, but keep you busy, for sure. You’ll have to watch for weight fluctuations if you have Libra Rising or Moon sign.

Sagittarians now have the weight of Saturn on their sign, where it will stay for about 2.5 more years. This brings a more serious disposition to this normally fun-loving sign. It can bring money (rules their 2nd house) but lots of responsibilities and duties, and there’s just no getting around that.  Some may even have bouts of depression, but staying active, finding ways to help others, would be a good remedy for that.

ECLIPSES in 2018: January 31 = total lunar eclipse; February 15 = partial solar eclipse; July 13 = partial solar eclipse; July 27 = total lunar eclipse; August 11 = partial solar eclipse. I will describe each of these more fully, as I get to the monthly blog posts for those months.

JANUARY 2018 Transits: (to fully understand what they mean for YOU, it’s best to book a yearly reading with me. Call 720-448-3742).

1/01/2018 – We begin with a FULL MOON in Gemini. Cancerians (ruled by the Moon) may feel more inward, or even a little lonely or isolated, as this is a 12th house transit for them. On the other hand (a saying Geminis are very fond of…) they may feel a lot of spiritual fullness within as they use this time to meditate or reflect on where they are and the kind of year they’ve just experienced, coming through the challenges triumphantly. A la that song, “I’m still standing!” ♪

1/01/2018 – Both Saturn and Venus go combust the Sun today. This could bring some heightened edginess or easy irritability for the signs ruled by these planets: respectively, Capricorn, Aquarius, Taurus and Libra. Saturn goes non-combust on 1/07/2018.  Venus goes non-combust on 2/19/2018.

1/06/2018 – MERCURY moves into Sagittarius. This is a welcomed position for those with Gemini Rising or Moon signs, as the ruler of their charts now shifts from the house of health problems, to the 7th house of business, partnership and travel. For Virgos, also ruled by Mercury, this is the 4th house of home, friends, vehicles, and self confidence, so it is also a good position.

1/13/2018 – VENUS enters Capricorn.  This is a friend’s sign so Venus is happy there. Good for both signs that Venus rules: for Taureans it will now be in their 9th house of good luck, good fortune, dharma, remedies and Natural Law. For Librans, this is their 4th house of comforts, home, friends, vehicles, self-confidence.

1/14/2018 – now the SUN joins Venus in Capricorn (which is one reason Venus is still combust into February, as they are traveling so close together now) This is not a friend’s sign for the Sun, which rules LEO. It is their 6th house of enemies, rivals, competitors, stress, worries, and health issues for our Leo friends, so they will have to wade through some of the above for a one month period now.

1/16/2018 – MARS happily enters Scorpio, its own sign, filling those who have this Rising or Moon sign with energy, courage, drive, initiative and the like. The only thing to watch for is possible bursts of anger or irritability, if things don’t happen as fast as you would like. Speaking of speed, better slow down, to avoid a speeding ticket during this transit! For the Aries Rising and Moon signs, also ruled by Mars, well…that is their 8th house, so there may be some vulnerability and changes to deal with.

1/26/2018 – MERCURY goes combust the Sun. This cycle in which a planet travels too close to the Sun (which makes a planet grouchy, angry, more reactive than normal) occurs more frequently for Mercury than any other planet, because it habitually travels closer to the Sun than the rest.  You may feel the subtle effects of just being more sensitive or reactive to things you normally would let roll off your back.  It can be helpful to employ meditative techniques to maintain your equilibrium and peace of mind during these cycles.

1/27/2018 – MERCURY enters Capricorn,  joining the Sun, Venus and Ketu in this Earth sign. Capricorn Rising and Moon sign people have a lot to juggle now, with many projects keeping them busy, some vulnerability brought to them by the Sun (ruler of their 8th house) but also some playfulness which Mercury and Venus traveling together generally bring to the party. This is the 8th house for Geminis, which represents vulnerability and transformation. It is the 5th house of education and success for Virgos, the other sign ruled by Mercury, so a better deal for the Virgos.

1/31/2018 – Total Lunar Eclipse, occurring in the sign of Cancer, which is ruled by the Moon. Those with Cancer Ascendants or Moon signs can expect to feel more sensitive than normal, as Rahu tries to “put out the light” of this luminary. Moon represents mind and emotions so can effect the clarity of one’s mental and emotional level now.  This eclipse will be visible in the USA, thus it has more impact on Americans. Here are all the areas of visibility for this one: western North America, North/East Europe, North/East Africa, Asia, Australia, South America, Antarctica,  the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian oceans.  It is interesting that our current president was born during a total lunar eclipse, so I will be watching to see how this one affects him.  It occurs in his 12th house of loss.

This is a perfect time to have your yearly Vedic Astrology reading with me, to see what the year ahead holds for YOU.  Wishing the blessings of the planets to you, from the Sunshine Corner, in Boulder, CO.  Tel. 720-448-3742 (cell); or 928-284-4060 (home).  Thank you for your referrals.

I offer many services such as: natal chart readings, yearly updates, couple compatibilities and astrocartography (location) readings.  If you would like to book an appointment for yourself, or as a gift for a friend, please call me to schedule one of my 90 minute sessions.  Thank you, Mary Stevenson, Vedic Astrologer, healingevents@yahoo.com. vedicstarcharts.com

Big Planet Changes for September, 2017 – Mercury is out of Retrograde

The Sunshine Corner has moved back to Boulder, Colorado! I look forward to providing my Vedic Astrology services to you from this fair city. My contact info remains the same.

There’s a lot to discuss with some major planets shifting this month, starting with:

9/02/17 – Mercury got out of combustion with the Sun, easing the way for smoother communications and especially helping our Gemini and Virgo friends.

9/05/17 – Mercury went Direct motion! This is of even greater importance to the Geminis and Virgos, whose signs are ruled by this planet, so they really feel it whenever Mercury is Retrograde.  In addition, Mercury governs commerce (buying and selling) so things should flow more smoothly for those engaged in commerce, plus it governs communication in general, thus by extension our communication devices, the intellect, and friendships. It also signifies tactfulness and diplomacy. Expect improvements in all of the above areas now.

9/08/17 – RAHU and KETU CHANGE SIGNS!  These are the north and south nodes of the Moon, respectively.  They only move every 18 months, and always in a backwards direction.  I am aware that some empheris users see this movement as occurring on Sept. 9th, but what my software shows is just about 6:00 p.m. Mountain Daylight time for the shift of Rahu into Cancer and Ketu into Capricorn.  The effects are too detailed to mention in this report.  Suffice it to say that those with Leo or Aquarius Rising, Moon or Sun signs will feel some relief, as Rahu and Ketu finally move out of their signs after 18 months.  Those with Cancer Rising, Moon or Sun signs are in for a lot of changes, with Rahu standing for “transformation.” Get ready to turn on a dime, Cancerians, and don’t become too attached to your well-laid plans right now.  Ketu brings more intuition to the Capricorns, but it does also stand for “hindrance and degradation” so they could be in for a time of feeling invisible to some degree, and some embarrassing situations are bound to arise. Either that, or dealing with some situations that arise from past karma.

9/11/17 – Another of our slower-moving planets, benefic Jupiter moves on this date, from Virgo, into the air sign of Libra. He only moves about every 12.5 to 13 months, so this is another big shift of planet energy occurring in September.  Jupiter governs the signs of Sagittarius and Pisces. For the Pisceans, this new position represents the 8th house of transformation, vulnerability, battles and “disunion.”  This could represent internal changes, or changes in aspects of the outer life, including career, as Jupiter governs their 10th house of career. It’s a better setup for the “Sags” as this is their 11th house of gain and income. For Librans, Jupiter does not rule the very best houses, so they may experience some “mixed results.” Having to watch out for weight gain, would be one of them!

9/14/17 – VENUS moves into LEO, bringing its pleasure-seeking, comfort-loving ways to this fire sign.  This move takes place close to midnight MDT, therefore won’t be experienced until the next day in time zones to the east of us here in Boulder.  Because of the houses Venus owns from the viewpoint of Leo Ascendants and Moon sign people, they should feel a nice boost of energy and be more active now, as well as enjoy indulging in their favorite comforts and luxuries. Venus rules Taurus and Libra. The Taureans get to enjoy pleasant times at home, entertaining friends and family; also the possibility is there to enjoy some new vehicle.  For Librans, this is their 11th house of gain, income and fulfillment of desire, so it will also represent positive experiences for them during this transit, which lasts until October 9th.

9/16/17  – TWO planet changes happen this date: MARS gets out of combustion with the Sun (good news for Aries and Scorpios, to feel less pressured and irritated), plus the SUN enters Virgo.  The Sun in this practical, logical Earth sign, brings warmth to the land as we move into the harvest season. Virgos may feel a bit more inward now, as the Sun rules their 12th house of solitude and isolation. They will need to watch their spending habits now. Leos will enjoy having the lord of their chart passing through the 2nd house of wealth, speech and family, enlivening these important areas of life.

9/21/17 – Once again Mercury goes combust the Sun, i.e. traveling too close to the fiery orb for comfort. Thus all that Mercury signifies could get “singed” a little, from diplomacy and tactfulness, to communication and clear thinking.

9/26/17 – Mercury will be so much happier to move into VIRGO today, which is its own sign. This strengthens the logical, clear thinking aspects of all who are ruled by this planet, those with Gemini or Virgo Ascendants or Moon signs.  Mercury stays in this sign until October 13th.

Blessings of the planets to you, from the Sunshine Corner in Boulder, CO.  Tel. 928-284-4060.  Thank you for any referrals you may send me.  I offer many services such as: natal chart readings, yearly updates, couples compatibility or astrocartography (location) readings.  If you would like to book an appointment for yourself, or as a gift for a family member or dear one, please call me, and we can schedule a 90 minute, taped session.  Thank you, Mary Stevenson, Vedic Astrologer, healingevents@yahoo.com. vedicstarcharts.com

December Planets 2016 by Mary Stevenson, Vedic Astrologer

December 2nd – The month begins with VENUS moving into Capricorn on the 2nd, staying in this Earth sign until Dec. 28th

Now it is traveling with Mars. They both give positive qualities to those with Capricorn Rising or Moon signs. The good results range from attracting friends and supporters, to getting a better position, making money, and success in general, even with games of chance. Enjoy it while it lasts!

December 11 – MARS moves into Aquarius.  It stays here until January 20, 2017. Even during its stay in the previous sign of Capricorn, Mars was doing an “exchange of houses” with Saturn, who has long been sitting in Scorpio, ruled by Mars. Both Capricorn and Aquarius are ruled by Saturn. The good news about this upcoming move into the fixed Air sign, is that Mars will get away from Saturn’s aspect, and thus be more comfortable, in that regard. The “other news” though, is that in Aquarius, Mars will be traveling with malefic KETU (the south node of the Moon), which makes for a trickier passage. 

Mars and Ketu will be at the same degree on December 26th. Since Ketu is an “upagraha” (a planet without a body), it absorbs the energies of whatever planet in which it may be in conjunction, as well as those giving an aspect (looking at it). There are some astrologers making a very big deal about this conjunction and warning people to avoid traveling the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. Some of these astrologers throw in the influence of the outer planets (Neptune, Uranus and Pluto) which we do NOT use in Vedic Astrology. 

Yes, Mars can cause accidents, draw blood, represent violence, anger, temper and the like. To me, as far as individuals go, it depends entirely on what the sign of Aquarius represents in your own natal chart. If you have Aquarius Rising or Moon sign, yes, it would pay to be cautious. If you are a  Scorpio Rising or Moon sign, Mars and Ketu will be transiting your 4th house of vehicles, so yes, be careful. Once you have a reading with me, you will know what this sign represents in your own chart and thus, how to plan accordingly.

As always, I urge everyone to listen to his or her own intuition.  Could there be some terrorist activity in this cycle? There may be. For malefic RAHU will be aspecting Mars, from Rahu’s position in Leo. Whenever Mars and Rahu interact there can be fireworks, drama and generally not a good time had by all.

December 15 – The SUN enters Sagittarius, for its one month transit in this fire sign. This will be a nice change, from the Sun’s point of view, to get out of the same sign as its enemy, Saturn.  I expect Leos to feel better, with less restrictions here, and greater success, as the ruler of their chart will be crossing their 5th house. Perhaps governmental functions will also start flowing more smoothly then. Saturn’s influence has been tossing in some obstacles, delays and criticism, for the previous 30 days.

December 19 – MERCURY GOES RETROGRADE, until January 8, 2017. This marks the FOURTH Mercury retrograde period of 2016. Virgos and Geminis are used to taking measures to accommodate the apparent “things going backwards” effect of such a transit. Since Mercury rules communication and commerce, we all feel the impact, so we’ll want to keep in mind the need to be as tactful and diplomatic as possible – it won’t be easy, but let’s try!

December 22 – Mercury goes combust the Sun. This is a period of Mercury traveling too close to this fiery orb and thus some of its get qualities get singed a bit. That does include interpersonal communication, diplomacy, tactfulness and anything connected to communications equipment. This influence will last until January 2, 2017, so Virgos and Geminis especially, take note.

December 26 – Saturn gets out of combustion with the Sun. This is most helpful to those with Capricorn or Aquarius Ascendants or Moon signs. It has been combust since November 23, which makes any planet more grumpy, angry, and unable to present its best side and provide its best benefits.  Thus we should also see improvement in the career fields that are ruled by Saturn, from laborers to police personnel.

December 28 – VENUS enters Aquarius. Here it joins Mars and Ketu, and Venus will stay in this fixed Air sign until January 27, 2017, when it enters Pisces, its sign of exaltation. While traveling with Mars and Ketu in Aquarius, it does bring some sweetness to the planetary mix here, for Venus is Yogakaraka (best planet) for those with Aquarius Rising.

Blessings of the planets to you, from the Sunshine Corner in from Sedona, AZ.  Tel. 928-284-4060.  Thank you for any referrals you may send me.  I offer many services such as: natal chart readings, yearly updates, couples compatibility or astrocartography (location) readings.  If you would like to book an appointment for yourself, or as a gift for a family member or dear one, please call me, and we can schedule a 90 minute, taped session.  Thank you, Mary Stevenson, Vedic Astrologer, healingevents@yahoo.com. vedicstarcharts.com

September Skies: Vedic Astrology Blog by Mary Stevenson

There’s much to report in the realm of planet interactions this month.

9/01/16 – The Sun was eclipsed by malefic north node of the Moon, Rahu, in its own sign of LEO.  However, this eclipse was barely visible anywhere, and not at all in the USA so other than those with Leo Rising or Moons signs, who may have felt some energetic shifts, I do not feel this was a very significant event, for most.

9/06/16 – MERCURY (which is already retrograde) goes combust the Sun.  This condition lasts until 9/16. It does not make Mercury a happy camper, thus misunderstandings and verbal disagreements may ensue, with Mercury not able to provide his usual tactfulness and diplomacy.

MERCURY RETROGRADE began last month and will go until 9/21.  At first, it won’t be too much of a problem, since this planet that deals with communication has been crossing Virgo, its own sign, where it is strong and happy. BUT!  It will back up into LEO, the previous sign on 9/09/16.  There it will be sitting with the Sun (briefly, until it moves) and malefic RAHU.  Things will get more dicey for those ruled by Mercury, Geminis and Virgos.  Especially the Virgos may experience more challenging results at this time, with the ruler of their charts crossing their 12th house of loss, expenses, seclusion or isolation.  Add to this Rahu playing a wild card thrown into this transit.  This condition lasts until 10/03/16, when Mercury will return to Virgo, and peace and order will be restored for you.

9/11/16 – Benefic JUPITER goes combust the Sun.  This condition lasts until 10/10/16 affecting those ruled by Jupiter, Pisces and Sagittarius.  You have a normally happy, upbeat nature, but could feel some inner “pinch” at this time. Take care of yourself and know that “this too shall pass.”

9/16/16 – the Sun enters Virgo. Here it escapes its one month transit with malefic Rahu.  That will come as a relief.  Jupiter and Venus will still be in Virgo at this time.  Those with Virgo Rising and Moon signs may have to watch their tendency to spend now, caused by the Sun, their 12th ruler, crossing the 1st house of self.

9/16/16 – Meanwhile, that same day, there will be a Penumbral Lunar eclipse (partial).  We are fortunate that it will not be visible in the USA. Regions which will be seeing at least some parts of the eclipse: Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, West in South America, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, Arctic, Antarctica. Eclipses are not auspicious in the tradition of  Vedic Astrology, thus those in the areas where the light of this eclipsed luminary is visible, will experience the greatest effects. 

9/17/16 – MARS ENTERS SAGITTARIUS!  Finally this long ordeal that has been going on since 7/12/16, with Mars transiting Scorpio in conjunction with Saturn, will be over. Both planets will breath their respective signs of relief.  This has not been an easy transit especially, for those with Aries Rising or Moon signs, since Scorpio represents their 8th house of vulnerability, battles and disunion, transformation, life and death.  It will be such a blessing for the ruler of your sign to now enter your 9th “best” house in your chart and bring you support of Nature, good luck and good fortune.

9/18/16 – VENUS enters Libra its own sign. This great benefic will be very happy here and benefit those with Libra Rising or Moon signs greatly.  The other sign ruled by Venus is Taurus. They will not have as easy a run of it, since Libra represents their 6th house of stress, worry, enemies, rivals and competitors, plus possible health problems. This transit lasts until 10/13/16.

There is no doubt that next month will be an easier ride for most of us, once Mars finally moves away from Saturn on 9/17; Mercury gets out of retrograde on 9/21 and we get further past the two eclipses of September.

To get a better understanding of how all these transits and other factors affect your personal life, call me for a reading!

All the best, from the Sunshine Corner in from Sedona, AZ.  Tel. No. 928-284-4060.  Thank you for any referrals you may send me.  I offer many services such as: natal chart readings, yearly updates, couples compatibility or astrocartography (location) readings.  If you would like to book an appointment for yourself, or as a gift for a family member or dear one, please call me, and we can schedule a 90 minute, taped session.  Thank you, Mary Stevenson, Vedic Astrologer, healingevents@yahoo.com. vedicstarcharts.com

August: JUPITER Entered Virgo/SATURN Goes Direct

Hello Vedic Astrology fans! Sorry for the delay in getting my August blog out.  Once again, I’m blaming it on the planets.

After a lovely two months visiting my former home town of Boulder, CO and all the dear friends there, I arrived back in Sedona on Sunday night to find I had no internet service.  It took three days of speaking with my carrier Century Link (after long holds on the phone) to finally get it sorted out – to a degree, but it’s not perfect. I was finding that people in the phone department couldn’t help with the internet issue and vice versa. One hand does not know what the other is doing over there!

This is so symptomatic of the type of “push/pull” energy that the Mars/Saturn conjunction continues to throw out, into each of our lives, that is experienced in various ways. Right now viewers are gripped with watching the OLYMPICS on TV. I have watched some of the competitive spirit of these planets spill over into looks and comments between competitors there.  It affects everyone.  Not least of which are the conflict hot spots around the globe and our own presidential politics here in the USA.

August 11 – JUPITER moved into VIRGO, ending it’s one year+ travel through the fixed fire sign of LEO.  Since January 8, 2016, malefic north node of the Moon, RAHU has been traveling there with it, causing upheaval, passion and chaos for some Leo Ascendants.  It is important to note that this is Donald Trump’s rising sign. Now…without benefic Jupiter there to mitigate the effects of raging Rahu, we can expect more unusual and even disturbing behavior. However, at this time, the benefics Venus and Mercury are traveling through Leo, so that helps to sweeten up the energy while that transit lasts.  Don’t hold your breath. Mercury moves on 8/19 and Venus moves on 8/24.

August 13 – SATURN GOES DIRECT, after being in retrograde motion (the appearance of going backwards) since March 25, 2016.  This will be a positive change for those ruled by Saturn (Capricorn; Aquarius) as they can once again experience more ease in circumstance “moving forward” in their lives, vs. all the effort it has taken to get things done these many months. 

We cannot ignore the challenging fact that Saturn’s mortal enemy, Mars, is still traveling with it, through Mars’ own sign of Scorpio, thus it is more powerful than Saturn here.  Right now the two are a little more than five degrees apart.  The negativity gets far more dangerous (accidents, warfare, terrorism, etc.) when these two malefics “duke it out” once they are at exactly the same degree (which is called a “planetary war”). It won’t be comfortable for anyone for that time period, but especially if you have a natal Scorpio Rising or Moon sign.  August 24 and 25 are the days to watch out for, but…the effect of  the two of them “traveling in a close orb of influence” will be felt for some days before, and after, those dates.

August 16 – SUN moves into its own sign of LEO.  Here the Sun is strong and powerful.  Unfortunately for those with Leo Rising or Moon signs, it adds to the excessive “Pitta” (Ayurvedic principle of heat in the body) and their moods could reflect that even more than usual, in terms of irritability, quarrelsomeness and anger.  Furthermore, it adds to the innate tendency towards ego and vanity. Leos know they are natural leaders, and some of them (see above paragraphs) just want everyone to “get out of the way, so I can do my thing.” There is not going to be any “please” or “thank you” to their demands now. These planets do not contribute to any finesse, grace, and thoughtfulness towards others. Remember — the Sun will be conjunct with malefic RAHU in this fire sign.

That brings me to point out that this conjunction is leading up to the solar eclipse that will take place in Leo on September 1st.  Just lucky for us that it won’t be visible here in America, but the Leos may still feel some effects of “having the light go out” as malefic Rahu “swallows” the Sun for a brief amount of time. More on that next month.

August 19th – Mercury enters VIRGO, its own sign, wherein it achieves Exaltation status in the middle degrees of this sign.  Intellect is strengthened, as are tactfulness, diplomacy and principles of commerce (buying and selling).  This is not a moment too soon for those with Virgo Rising or Moon signs. Better to have the ruler of their charts crossing the first house of self and body, then where it has been, crossing their twelfth house of “loss, expenses, isolation” since July 26th.

August 24 – VENUS enters VIRGO – its sign of debilitation which may cause Venus to feel weaker. It does receive some “neecha bhanga yoga” (cancellation of debilitation) from its friend Mercury, with whom it will be conjunct.  This is the fifth house for Taurus Rising and Moon sign people, thus a positive transit for them. The other sign ruled for Venus is Libra, and this is the twelfth house (of loss, expenditures, seclusion or isolation, possible foreign travel) for them, so therefore, not as comfortable.

I will point out again, that once Venus moves on this date,  it leaves just the Sun, transiting with Rahu through the sign of Leo.  I’m sorry but I just must say it, unless we are dealing with very evolved Leos, who have learned to master the lessons of humility and service, well…it will simply be “Ego on steroids” for the Leos you may have to deal with now!  Good luck with that.

August 30 – MERCURY RETROGRADE COMES AROUND ONCE MORE.  This period will last until September 21st.  Take a deep breath, let out a few sighs, and just realize that anything you say may be misconstrued and held against you!  Yes, the planet of communication, each time it goes through this “appearance of going backwards” condition, does really warp or play havoc with either personal communications, or any equipment having to do with communication.  Since I’ve already had to deal with my own internet being out, I hope I’ve already paid my dues in advance!

All the best, from the toasty Sunshine Corner in from Sedona, AZ.  Tel. No. 928-284-4060.  Thank you for any referrals you may send me.  I offer many services such as: natal chart readings, yearly updates, couples compatibility or astrocartography (location) readings.  If you would like to book an appointment for yourself, or as a gift for a family member or dear one, please call me, and we can schedule a 90 minute, taped session.  Thank you, Mary Stevenson, Vedic Astrologer, healingevents@yahoo.com. vedicstarcharts.com

 

 

July Planets: Venus/Mercury/Sun in Cancer

Right, this is the latest I’ve ever gotten my Monthly Planet Blog out! I blame it on having too much fun here, visiting friends in Boulder, CO. And…the planets made me do it. LOL.

July 7 – VENUS entered movable water sign of Cancer, bringing a love of having fun and relaxing to those with Cancer Rising or Moon signs.  There is a “party of planets” building up in this sign, bringing enjoyment, playfulness and a desire for luxury and comforts to this already home-loving sign. 

July 10th –  Mercury entered Cancer.  This is a positive house placement for both signs ruled by Mercury, Virgo (its 11th house of gain and income) as well as Gemini (its 2nd house of family, wealth and communication).  This increases the Cancerians’ desire to communicate but brings some mixed energy, as it owns their 12th house of loss as well.

July 12th – MARS entered Scorpio, once again traversing its own sign after a retrograde sojourn in the previous sign of Libra.  As Mars is once again conjunct with its enemy Saturn, the fireworks begin to fly once more, especially when Mars returns to the very degree it had reached prior to going retrograde. We still have to wait until September 17th before Mars moves onto the next sign to break up this too-long conjunction we have been experiencing. Sadly, we see how violence in the form of yet another horrific terrorist act has erupted since Mars returned to Scorpio. Do your best to stay calm and balanced, those of you with Scorpio Ascendants or Moon signs.

July 13th – Venus gets out of combustion with the Sun, which certainly improves the flow of daily life for the Libra and Taurus Rising and Moon sign people, as this is the ruler of their charts.  Combustion makes a planet “irritable and angry” and this period of traveling too close to the Sun has gone on for a very, very long time, since April 30th. 

July 15th – SUN enters Cancer, so we now have three planets heating things up and bringing more activity to the Cancerians.  Since the Sun rules their 2nd house of wealth, family and communication, these areas of life get positively influenced for those with Cancer Rising or Moon signs. However, if you have LEO Rising or Moon sign, the ruler of your chart is now crossing your 12th house of loss, expenses, and isolation. It’s a good time for some foreign travel, so that’s one fun way to spend your money.

July 19th – Mercury gets out of combustion with the Sun! This is a huge relief for those ruled by Mercury, Virgos and Geminis.  Combustion means traveling so close to the Sun (by degree) that a planet’s significations are “burnt up” – now there can be more ease of functioning for our Gemini and Virgo friends.

July 26 – Mercury moves into fixed fire sign, Leo.  This is a positive for the Leo Rising and Moon signs, as Mercury rules their money houses, and brings better cash flow their way. It’s not as positive for the Virgo Rising and Moon sign folks, as the ruler of their charts will now traverse their 12th house of loss, expenses, isolation. Geminis will feel to get more projects done, with this, a 3rd house transit for them.

July 31 – VENUS enters Leo, bringing the party to the Leos now.  Venus here joins Mercury, Jupiter and Rahu (north node of the Moon and a malefic).  There’s a lot of energy, some positive, some still unpredictable and problematic for those with Leo Rising or Moon signs.  Rahu seizes and lets go.  Both political conventions will have already taken place by this date, but Rahu and Jupiter, of course, are already in Leo anyway, which energizes the GOP candidate in some dramatic ways, as that represents his 1st house of self, body, personality.

All the best, from the Sunshine Corner, currently away from Sedona, AZ.  Tel. No. 928-284-4060.  Thank you for any referrals you may send me.  I offer many services such as: natal chart readings, yearly updates, couples compatibility or astrocartography (location) readings.  If you would like to book an appointment for yourself, or as a gift for a family member or dear one, please call me, and we can schedule a 90 minute, taped session.  Thank you, Mary Stevenson, Vedic Astrologer, healingevents@yahoo.com. vedicstarcharts.com

 

MARCH Planet Report: Total Solar Eclipse on 3/08 – Then Saturn Goes Retrograde 3/25

Anyone have the Total Solar Eclipse Blues Yet?

For all who think solar eclipses are “cool,” er, not so much, in terms of the effects known to the ancient science of Vedic Astrology. The advice of the wise is to avoid looking at, or being out in the eclipsed light of, this Luminary of our solar system. It is also not advised to eat from a couple of hours before, until a couple of hours after, an eclipse. All of the above advice applies even more so, to pregnant women.

This eclipse will be totally visible in Sulawesi, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Borneo, and the middle of the Pacific Ocean.  It will also be partially visible in northern and eastern Australia, in South Asia, and in East Asia. The areas in which an eclipse is seen will feel the astrological effects the most, per the classic texts.

This eclipse is occurring in the fixed air sign of Aquarius.  There will be a five-planet pile up going on in this sign at the time. The Sun and Moon will be at the same exact degree here in Sedona (MST) at 6:00 p.m. local time on March 8th. 

Who feels it the most?  LEOS (those with this Rising and Moon sign) are ruled by the SUN.  When the light is temporarily “extinguished” they will experience something out of the ordinary, even if it is just some feeling of displacement, being out of sorts or not quite themselves. Leos are born leaders and take pride in being noticed for their accomplishment. To suddenly feel “not seen” is not comfortable or fun for them. So hang in there, Leos!  They have already been going through the yo-yo factor with the malefic north node of the moon, RAHU, crossing Leo since January 8 of this year.  Having benefic Jupiter also crossing their sign, has been the saving grace here.

Those with Aquarius Ascendants or Moon signs will feel the intensity as well.  The south node of the moon, KETU, is the culprit trying to swallow the Sun on this day. It is joined in this sign by Venus, Mercury, and of course the Sun and Moon.  There could be issues with some relationships and certain feelings of vulnerability on this occasion, but I still think it will affect the Leos even more.   About the only thing an eclipse day is good for, is having a Yagya, which is an ancient type of remedy in Vedic Astrology; a ritual in which skilled priests take on the job of mitigating the karma which one’s birth chart may show in various aspects of life. I do have a wonderful source for yagyas, done in India on the banks of the Ganges, if anyone is interested in that service.

March 1 – Mercury moved into Aquarius on this date.  This is the 9th house for Geminis, thus a good place to begin feeling more luck and support of nature for those with this Rising or Moon sign. However, for the other sign ruled by Mercury, VIRGO, this represents their 6th house so not as comfortable.  The 6th house represents health problems, worry, anxiety, stress, enemies, rivals and competitors. The only Virgos who may benefit would be lawyers and doctors or health professionals, who may attract more clients at this time.

March 7 – Mercury goes combust the Sun.  This is a time when the nimble Mercury travels too close to the Sun and “feels the burn,” and not in a good way. Thus qualities of tactfulness and diplomacy may suffer. Watch your tempers, Virgos and Geminis!

March 7 – Venus enters Aquarius, a friend’s sign.  Venus rules good houses for those with Aquarius Rising or Moon signs, thus providing some comforts or even “luxuries.” This normally very cerebral sign may even be feeling a little sensuous now. For both Libras and Taureans, the signs ruled by Venus, this position represents very good houses for them both.

March 8 – Total Solar Eclipse in Aquarius. See discussion above. I should add that many Jyotishis (Jyotish is the Sanskrit word for Vedic Astrology) feel that the effects of an eclipse last from two weeks before until two weeks after, they occur. Some even feel the effects last for one month on either side of an eclipse.  That is why many have been feeling unsettled for some time now.

March 13 – Sun moves into Pisces….and not a moment too soon. It will feel more comfortable now, getting away from mean old Ketu, and out of an enemy’s sign (Aquarius) into a friend’s sign now.  However for LEOS, this represents their 8th house of transformation, vulnerability, battles and disunion, as well as knowledge of past and future. I urge Leos to listen to their intuition and be vigilant of their boundaries during this 30-day period.  The Sun represents for Pisces Rising and Moon sign folks, the ruler of their 6th house, thus bringing some discomfort, worry or anxiety and perhaps the tendency to get “overheated” one way or another.

March 18 – Mercury moves into Pisces.  This is a more helpful position for the Virgos, as it represents their 7th house of partners and travel. Being able to connect with others now, becomes smoother and more comfortable.  It’s also a good house for Geminis, also ruled by Mercury, representing their 10th house of career, action, name and fame.

March 23 – PARTIAL LUNAR ECLIPSE.  Usually there are at least two eclipses per year of both Sun and Moon, and they do often occur within the same month, often within two weeks of each other.  This penumbral lunar eclipse will be visible from most parts of Asia, Australia, North America and South America.  There are some very good sites online which you can google and see the full path of this eclipse.  It will occur in the earth sign Virgo.  At least it is just a partial darkening of the Moon’s light…but let’s keep in mind that the Moon represents mind and emotions in the Vedic system, and thus the normally logical Virgos could be slightly thrown off their usual game on this day.

March 25 – SATURN GOES RETROGRADE.  This period of the appearance of “going backwards” begins at 2:57 a.m. MST.   It does not move into direct motion again until August 13th.  There is already the uncomfortable situation that Saturn has been in Scorpio for some time, thus in an enemy’s sign.  Mars is also transiting through Scorpio now, too, and these great enemies being in the same sign together create much friction which spills over into the world scene, adding to the chaos of current times.  The two signs ruled by Saturn are Capricorn and Aquarius.  While this represents good houses for both of them, the retrograde period will bring some delays and obstacles. It may also bring the unavoidable need to finally resolve some issues they have been putting off, or thought were already settled.  Patience will be needed.

March 31 – VENUS  moves into water sign Pisces. Here the great benefic experiences its sign of exaltation.  Those with Pisces Rising or Moon signs should feel rather playful and attractive now, if not downright self-indulgent.  Venus rules Taurus and Libra. For those with Taurus Ascendants or Moon signs, this is a very nice transit, through their house of gain, income and fulfillment of desires.  For the Libras, Pisces represents their 6th house, so efforts will be needed to relax, try and avoid extra stress and worry now, and focus more on taking care of themselves.

All the best, from the Sunshine Corner, here in Sedona, AZ.  Tel. No. 928-284-4060.  Thank you for any referrals you may send me.  I offer many services such as: natal chart readings, yearly updates, couples compatibility or astrocartography (location) readings.  If you would like to book an appointment for yourself, or as a gift for a family member or dear one, please call me, and we can schedule a 90 minutes, taped session.  Thank you, Mary Stevenson, Vedic Astrologer, healingevents@yahoo.com. vedicstarcharts.com

 

 

 

 

February Planets Dance Through the Vedic Star Sky

We start the month with Jupiter being the only planet in retrograde motion.

January 7th is the date Jupiter went retrograde. It gets out of this condition on May 9th, which is when relief comes to the signs it rules, Sagittarius and Pisces. Thus if your Ascendant or Moon sign is one of these, you now have the opportunity to work on finishing up some old business or getting to the bottom of a situation that had eluded your grasp previously.  That is one thing a retrograde period is good for.

A further complication for our Sag and Pisces friends is the situation of Jupiter being conjunct, to the very same degree for some days now, with malefic Rahu, the north node of the Moon, who is known as the “seizer.”  The lunar nodes, Rahu and Ketu, only eclipse our solar system luminaries, the Sun and Moon, in the technical sense. Energetically though, those ruled by Jupiter could feel that something is trying to “eclipse” their goals or feelings at this time.  Because both Rahu and Jupiter are in backwards (retrograde) movement now, this to-the-very-degree situation will continue for some time.  By Feb. 20th they will finally at least be more than one degree apart, which will help some.

Virgos and Geminis in the Vedic Astrology zodiac have been feeling relieved since the ruler of their chart, Mercury, got out of retrograde on January 25. 

Feb. 8 – MERCURY moves into Capricorn, a friend’s sign (its friend Venus joins him there on Feb. 12th).  For Virgos this represents the 5th house of learning, education, success, children and love affairs, plus inclinations of the mind.  Thus Virgos get the good end of this particular transit.  For Geminis, the other sign ruled by Mercury, it is not as much fun, as Capricorn represents their 8th house of battles, disunion, transformation and vulnerability.  We can only ask the all-important question, “What am I to learn from this situation?” rather than let possible insecurities overtake us during this period of changing circumstances.

Feb. 12 – VENUS enters Capricorn, a friend’s sign.  This bodes well for both signs ruled by this great benefic, Libra and Taurus. For the Libras, the ruler of their chart will now be crossing the 4th house of home, real estate, friends, vehicles, self confidence.  There could be some cozy times spent at home or genial social gatherings with friends now.  For the Taureans, Capricorn represents their 9th house of good luck, good fortune, destiny, dharma, remedies, pilgrimage, natural law, higher education, etc.  Thus our Taurus friends should be in for a period of feeling lucky and on point in their endeavors.

As a reminder, your Dashas are King! That means your personal planetary cycles weigh more in the analysis of a chart reading, than do the transits.  I give insights on where the planets are in the sky each month in this Blog, to offer a taste of what this 5,000-year old aspect of Vedic Science can do to offer insights into the trends going on in your life, but nothing replaces a personal chart reading, FYI.

Feb. 13 – The SUN moves into Aquarius.  For the Aquarians, the Sun owns the 7th house, representing partners, thus those with Aquarius Rising or Moon signs could easily attract to themselves a business partner or new personal relationship during this 30-day transit.  Conversely, for the Leos, who are ruled by the Sun, they will find themselves able to and interested in reaching out to other people and partners, as the ruler of their chart will be crossing their 7th house.

Feb. 20 – Things heat up for Scorpios as their planetary ruler, MARS enters their sign, joining its enemy Saturn, which has been transiting there for some time.  Mars remains here until June 17.  Saturn doesn’t move until January 26, 2017.  These two planets represent the cross-purpose concepts of “hurry up, and slow down.”  Mars wants to get everything done YESTERDAY (or sooner), thus bringing much drive, energy, initiative and action into the energy field of Scorpios.  But Saturn wants a more moderate, deliberate pace.  Saturn brings detachment and delays, humility and hard work.  It is not to be trifled with! And certainly won’t let itself be pushed around by impatient Mars, which can sometimes cause an individual to act rashly…the very opposite of Saturn’s cautious nature.  Thus if  you have a Scorpio Moon or Ascendant, you may experience some internal push/pull or paradoxical forces operating within your psyche and your life until Mars moves on, March 1st.

We shall have some interesting changes to discuss next month, with a March 8/9 (depending on your time zone) total solar eclipse, and a partial lunar eclipse on March 23.  As if that were not enough excitement, Saturn goes retrograde on March 25!  Stay tuned.

All the best, from the Sunshine Corner, here in Sedona, AZ.  Tel. No. 928-284-4060.  Thank you for any referrals you may send me.  I offer many services such as: natal chart readings, yearly updates, couples compatibility or astrocartography (location) readings.  If you would like to book an appointment for yourself, or as a gift for a family member or dear one, please call me, and we can schedule a 90 minutes, taped session.  Thank you, Mary Stevenson, Vedic Astrologer, healingevents@yahoo.com. vedicstarcharts.com