This waning cycle encourages forward momentum with commerce, communications and creative imagination. Rahu and Ketu change signs for the coming year and a half, causing grande shifts for all. Shadows and desires, karma and liberation, all find new vantage points, promising transformation in the cycle ahead.

Mercury goes direct Monday, January 25th at 13:46 PST, instigating forward momentum with the mind and all things mental body- including commerce, business, communications and imagination. Retrograde Jupiter continues to give his gaze to Mercury, softening and stabilizing the mind, yet provoking growth and wisdom in ways that may arrive as challenges and learning curves. Jupiter helps you expand. Expand the mind and what you think is possible for yourself. What is in your way of these achievements?

As Mercury continues through PurvaAshada nakshatra,  Apas brings support with her watery ways, increasing flow, fluidity and movement. With the conjunction of Venus and Mercury at this time, a powerful creative energy may be felt. Use this creativity for movement, change and supporting transformation. Mercury won't arrive back into Capricorn until February 8th, when he will ask you to revisit themes around forcing outcomes and pushing hard to achieve. Right now, where can you surrender and release? Where do you need more support? Gather resources now for greater stability. Harness the creative energy to help support ingenuity and new pathways for success.

Rahu and Ketu officially move to Leo and Aquarius at 19:09 PST on January 29th. Rahu leaps into Leo, running right into retrograde Jupiter at the edge of this passionate, heart-centered sign. The corridor will be open wide with Rahu and Jupiter standing in the doorway of Leo (sandhi) at the edge, until Jupiter moves deeper into Leo days later. Rahu, however, doesn't move out of the 28 degree range until March. The netherworld will be activated and alive for most of February, supporting connection with the spirit world, liminal space and the transcendence.

The collision of Jupiter and Rahu in Leo will provoke an interesting dance between the god-self and human-self. Saturn gives his stern, forceful gaze to these two planets from his perch in Scorpio. This focused energy will add an extra layer of intensity to the already powerful force of Jupiter and Rahu. When the energy of Rahu and Saturn conjoin, a Rudra effect is stirred. This can bring power, potency and intense movement as well as quick changes. This combination increases the theme of working with power authentically and carefully which will intensify after Jupiter moves to Virgo in August.

Rahu and Jupiter invite an integration of opposing forces. Rahu is a demon who tricked the gods into giving him a drink of their immortal nectar. His craving for immortality, left him severed, chopped in half and still longing for what he could not have. Rahu expresses your human qualities, shadow nature and strong desires. His opposite is Jupiter- ruler of the devas, the gods. He encourages sattva, spiritual pursuits and pure knowledge.

Read more about Rahu and Ketu moving to Leo and Aquarius.

 
Start 2016 off with clarity, support and extra resources, Schedule a personal session.


*Horoscopes are based on your Vedic (sidereal) rising sign. You can also check your Moon and Sun signs for further insight. Do the same with your Navamsa signs for further clarity. Do not use these horoscopes with your Western sign (Tropical) as there is likely no correlation. These horoscopes are meant to be used as a broad overview of the current transits and obviously do not address the specifics of an individual’s unique chart.


Aries: Rise and shine. With Sun moving through your 10th house of career, it's time to focus on sharing your work with the world in bigger and bolder ways. Wake up and confront the light within you! What old, hidden shadows are keeping you from stepping into your power? What fears stop you from taking action? Get clear on who you are and how you are in relationships. Watch anger, frustration and rage. What resources do you need for more relationship support? Your work right now and in the coming months has a lot to do with how you use your power and authority. Go deeper, listen carefully and notice where you are functioning in unconscious ways.

Taurus: Keep moving towards support and stability. Let the pelvis be a resource for tapping into this feeling within. How can you create more of this feeling? What experiences are helping you increase this awareness within? Notice your emotional responses when you don't feel supported. Who and what increases these feeling within you? There is a lot of learning to be had around these themes right now. A new empowerment is emerging simultaneously. Move through old stories and unconscious patterning. You are able to start re-writing your old programming and conditioning. But first you have to identify what is no longer serving you. Let your heart lead the way!

Gemini: Notice what relationships feel supportive and nourishing to you. Invite those who inspire and encourage you into your sacred space. Clarify boundaries with those who don't help you feel good about yourself. Can you tell? As Sun moves through your 8th house, it's a time for your soul and spirit to regenerate, transform and change. Meditation, rest and extra support are necessary, as well as diving deeply into your personal mythology and old stories. Re-write and re-pattern your past conditioning around what you should do, have to and are supposed to do. You are in charge! Create and activate the life of your desires. How do you hold yourself back? The coming months support your creative courage. Move towards your inspiration.

Cancer: Creativity is oozing out of you. Share your songs and eloquent words with the world. Inspire and uplift! Your creative power has the ability to help you start trusting your gifts more and more. Use it authentically. Use it to heal yourself and others. Use it to transform, change and grow. Let the challenges and pains be resources for your offerings, resources to help you deepen your awareness. You see the light in others, where they do not see it in themselves. You can reflect their wisdom back to them. Speak the sweet truth and use your power and authority in conscious, uplifting ways. Awaken the passion in your heart!

Leo: Working with grief and pain is inevitable right now, yet you are resisting this work simultaneously. How can you lean in closer to the heaviness in your heart and listen more closely? You are bringing light to your wounds and beginning to heal parts of yourself that have been overlooked. This deep listening will help you support others in their pain more intently as well. Use your creative powers to communicate your wisdom, experiences and stories. A certain authority and power is emerging within you. The months to come support your empowerment and visibility in new ways. Activate your relationship with spirit as a new resource. Track your trauma diligently and notice where it effects your ability to connect fully and receive nourishment.

Virgo: Creativity and courage continue to feel stuck, rigid and challenging. Use your grief as a resource for moving, changing and transforming these places of contraction within your being. Let the body be a resource for this process as it is the holding container of all emotion and feelings. Move towards nourishment; the heart will continue to show you the way. Creativity and artistry can support your nourishment and healing process. As you move towards nourishment and create more stability within, empowerment and self-trust deepens. This is vital for your transformation and healing process, as well as getting you closer to your desires and long term goals. Trust your process.

Libra: Your warrior spirit is being activated, awakening your inner light and wisdom. Enliven the passion you have carried silently. Let it stir you and open up new possibilities for you. Creativity is available in your hands and words right now. Make sure you do not stifle this or suppress this flow. Let the body be a channel for your messages and creative wisdom. The coming months will support opening and closing doors. Start now by releasing and letting go of what doesn't serve or support your growth, empowerment and deep nourishment. Let the light within be a resource for gathering insights. Allow spirit to help you with this process. Trust your gut.

Scorpio: You are creating safe, structured containment for yourself right now. Trust your boundaries and your slow, steady steps. This insures stable and supportive outcomes. Creativity is moving out and through your mouth right now. Share your words, thoughts and ideas. Sing, speak and write. People want to hear your message. Your ruling planet, Mars, is in a regeneration phase. Take sacred pauses in order to harvest the wisdom and insights. You are learning a lot about balance. Let the integration of your masculine and feminine energies guides you. The coming months support an increase in visibility and worldly activation. How can you start stepping out and sharing yourself in new, more powerful ways? Where are you resisting?

Sagittarius: Relationships are proving to be supportive and encouraging. Which ones make you feel nourished and connected? Which ones increase anger and resentment? Where are you being malnourished? Healthy boundaries are essential. Take your power back. Who and what are you allowing to leak into your sacred space in unconscious ways? Clarify this! Activate your creativity through spoken and written words and let the computer and internet be a resource for getting your message out. The coming months will require that you look at your dharma more carefully. There is work to be done with your offering to the world. Step towards this purpose with conviction.

Capricorn: The light is on and you are awakening. How are you using this new dawn? Put action steps behind your desires and find ways to activate your passion. You are creating a steady, grounded, clear foundation for yourself. Trust your steps and the roots that are growing deep. Continue to move towards balance and support, while noticing when you force or try to control outcomes. Add more femininity into your approach- more pauses, releases and fluidity. The coming months will provoke deep, inner changes that stir your entire being. Attend to old shadows and illusions that are keeping you in the dark. Use this new wisdom that is awakening as part of your offering. 

Aquarius: Slow and steady still wins the race. Be sure you are taking ample pauses, time for meditation and rejuvenation. With Sun transiting your 12th house, it's not a visible and energized time. Your efforts are best used for attending to your spiritual needs and seeking deeper nourishment. Who and what feels nourishing to you? Move towards this feeling and find new resources that help you deepen this. Release and clarify relationships and environments that don't feel supportive, healthy or satisfying. Strengthen your boundaries. Call upon relationships and resources that can support you in creating new, more nourishing relationships. 

Pisces: Share your creativity in bigger and bolder ways. Let your offerings be seen and heard by the world. Simultaneously it's time to clean up residue and old conditioning that is leaving you playing small, resisting your power and your immense creativity. Gather healing resources, extra guidance and support for activating your desires and visions. Friends can support your process and help you gain new insights. Speak and share authentically and notice where you continue to play small, where you resist your creative powers. Align masculine and feminine forces within, in order to maximize gains. Make time for sacred pauses in order for you to hear the messages of spirit arriving.

The week begins with a waning Moon moving through the 2nd tithi (phase) while still in its own sign, Cancer. As the Moon shifts into Leo late morning Monday, this sets the tone for the week ahead. It will be a powerful week where ancestral support is available. Ask, invite and open your heart to their guidance. Mercury goes direct on Monday, while Rahu and Ketu change signs on Friday, marking big changes for everyone in the months ahead. It is important to have extra guidance, clarity and support for this time of transition- including yagyas.

Monday, January 25th
Moon in 2nd tithi

Late morning Moon crosses the tricky gap (gandanta) between Cancer and Leo, from water into fire. As the Moon arrives in Leo, she lands in Magha nakshatra, Pitr's domain. The morning may be challenging and provoke discomfort on the emotional body level. Take care of your need for comfort and support by preparing in advance for choppy waters. The expression of Magha is fierce and severe- helpful for aggressive and harsh actions. Magha provokes power, increased authority, and is connected intimately to the ancestors and lineage matters. Often this star correlates to strong karmas with the father and his family line. The lower expression of this nakshatra can offer ego work, dominance and not being in right-relationship with power and masculine energy. The higher expression of this nakshatra can offer an activation of familial dharma, strong ancestral support and using one's power in ways that supports one's kingdom. What is your relationship with power today? Inner and outer? Seek resources, guidance and support to help you work with themes around father, power, lineage matters and the masculine.

Mercury goes direct today at 13:46 PST, instigating forward momentum with the mind and all things mental body- including commerce, business, communications and imagination. Retrograde Jupiter continues to give his gaze to Mercury, softening and stabilizing the mind, yet provoking growth and wisdom in ways that may arrive as challenges and learning curves. Jupiter helps you expand. Expand the mind and what you think is possible for yourself. What is in your way of these achievements?

As Mercury continues through PurvaAshada nakshatra,  Apas brings support with her watery ways, increasing flow, fluidity and movement. With the conjunction of Venus and Mercury at this time, a powerful creative energy may be felt. Use this creativity for movement, change and supporting transformation. Mercury won't arrive back into Capricorn until February 8th, when he will ask you to revisit themes around forcing outcomes and pushing hard to achieve. Right now, where can you surrender and release? Where do you need more support? Gather resources now for greater stability. Harness the creative energy to help support ingenuity and new pathways for success.

Tuesday, January 26th
Moon in 3rd tithi

Late morning, Moon moves to Purvaphalguni nakshatra and Bhaga arrives with extra support and resources. Bhaga is an Aditya, a form of the Sun god, which means his purpose is to provide gifts, resources and worldly support in order for wealth, happiness and gains. The ruling planet of this star is Venus, who is currently transiting Sagittarius, conjunct Mercury. Saturn's gaze on the Moon from Scorpio, insures that any resources offered will be structured and may even feel constrictive rather than helpful at first. (Remember, Saturn just wants you to simplify). There is ample creative flow to harvest from today. Use the body as a resource for discovery. Do you know how to capture these currents effectively? What blocks your flow, your ability to receive your inner riches? Money is a vital resource that provides nourishment and support for life. How can you deepen your relationship with receptivity and receiving today? What blockages need to be loosened and removed in order increases?

Rahu and Ketu are at the very edge of Virgo and Pisces right now, while retrograde Jupiter is still in the 28 degree range. The netherworlds will be activated and alive for most of February, supporting connection with the spirit world, liminal space and the transcendence.

Sandhi planets are vulnerable, delicate and powerful in their ambiguity. It's true, sandhi planets lack the grounding and stability that a planet who is clearly situated within a sign may offer. It is as though the planet hasn't fully decided if it is in the house that it is in. It is on its way in or out, but hasn't decided which one it will be. Its bags are still packed, boxes are still full, and it may not know if it's here or there. It's a traveler. It's in limbo. Read more about Rahu and Ketu's transit.

Wednesday, January 27th
Moon in 4th tithi

After noon, Moon shifts to the latter half of the Phalguni constellation, Uttaraphalguni. Ruling deity is Aryaman who is also one of the twelve Adityas. He brings resources and support through a strong physical body and good health, sustenance, marriage, relationships and the ancestors. He likes to see others happy through marriage and children- the ultimate repayment to the ancestors and one's lineage. His ancestral connections bring spiritual support and resources as well as the fruits for our labors. The Phalguni stars bring much fertility and creative energy. Today, ask for support from your ancestors, guides and spiritual resources. Get creative and let your shakti flow into endeavors and dharmic work that have depth and meaning to you.

Late evening, Moon nears the edge of Leo, as it collides with retrograde Jupiter and enters the liminal space propped open right now by Rahu and Jupiter's sandhi movement. As Moon jumps to Virgo, it lands in tight conjunction with Rahu. Watch for extremes, excess and sudden events- especially on the emotional body level. How can you surf these tides and land? Find your grounding cord.

Thursday, January 28th
Moon in 5th tithi

As Thursday arrives, the Moon moves away from Rahu while continuing through Uttaraphalguni nakshatra. Finding stability within is very important today as you will likely feel very ungrounded. Find ways to resource from within, track sensations in the body and create soft landings. As Moon shifts to Hasta nakshatra late afternoon, the emotional body becomes extra sensitive. Keep good company and healthy environments, nourishing foods and gather comfort. The emotions may feel shadowed and triggered- either through highs or lows. Track these emotions and find the underlying need. What do you need for greater stability and support? What action steps can you take to get this need met?

The Moon crossing over Rahu today, receiving direct gaze from Ketu, sets in motion the transit of Rahu and Ketu tomorrow. It's as though an announcement is taking place through the Moon's reflection and it will mirror the transit to come. Notice and observe carefully as the emotional body responds to the changes occurring. What can you do to seek more grounding and stability within?

Friday, January 29th
Moon in 6th tithi

Moon continues through Hasta nakshatra today, the constellation of Savitr. He signals the dawn, the coming of light and the increased awareness and wisdom that arrives with this light. There is a certain intelligence, awareness and insight available with Hasta. The hands are awakened with this star and can be used as a resource for this process of inner resourcing. Savitr uses his wisdom to create, heal and transform, turning all darkness into light. Savitr reminds us that every day there is a new dawn and the Sun will rise again- even when there are challenges, darkness and suffering. Look for the light today, the small sparks within, or the large beams shining down on you. Gather resources and tuck them gently into your heart.

Moon shifts to Chitra nakshatra just before Rahu and Ketu change signs. Vishvakarma brings his strength, creativity and building skills to support action and momentum. Clarify your steps.

Rahu and Ketu enter 0 degrees today, officially moving to Leo and Aquarius at 19:09 PST. Rahu leaps into Leo, running right into retrograde Jupiter at the edge of this passionate, heart-centered sign. The corridor will be open wide with Rahu and Jupiter standing in the doorway of Leo (sandhi) at the edge, until Jupiter moves deeper into Leo days later. Rahu, however, doesn't move out of the 28 degree range until March. The netherworld will be activated and alive for most of February, supporting connection with the spirit world, liminal space and the transcendence.

The collision of Jupiter and Rahu in Leo will provoke an interesting dance between the god-self and human-self. Saturn gives his stern, forceful gaze to these two planets from his perch in Scorpio. This focused energy will add an extra layer of intensity to the already powerful force of Jupiter and Rahu. When the energy of Rahu and Saturn conjoin, a Rudra effect is stirred. This can bring power, potency and intense movement as well as quick changes. This combination increases the theme of working with power authentically and carefully which will intensify after Jupiter moves to Virgo in August.

Rahu and Jupiter invite an integration of opposing forces. Rahu is a demon who tricked the gods into giving him a drink of their immortal nectar. His craving for immortality, left him severed, chopped in half and still longing for what he could not have. Rahu expresses your human qualities, shadow nature and strong desires. His opposite is Jupiter- ruler of the devas, the gods. He encourages sattva, spiritual pursuits and pure knowledge.

Read more about Rahu and Ketu moving to Leo and Aquarius.

Saturday, January 30th
Moon in 7th tithi

Late morning Moon jumps to Libra, joining Mars here. Both receive gaze from Ketu, who instigates sudden events and insights. The heat is turned up today on the emotional body. Seek to calm and soothe it, rather than light the fire. What does your anger really tell you about what you need? Moon transits Chitra nakshatra today as ruling deity, Vishvakarma, offers creative courage and potent action steps. He brings momentum, production, processes that result in outcomes or products, and he is quite the artisan. As the "celestial architect", his name literally has action in it (karma) which insures movement, change and productive steps. Ruling planet, Mars, increases the action-oriented nature of this star. It is said that as the architect of the cosmos, Vishvakarma built the zodiac and the ayanamsa- or jyotish chart- that is used today. He loves artisans, crafters and the creative process. Let today help you clarify steps, actions and plans. Building an empire?! Start today! Your small, consistent steps do add up.

Just before midnight, Moon moves to Swati nakshatra. Movement and momentum arrive. What changes are you creating intentionally? Consciously direct your sails

Sunday, January 31st
Moon in the 8th tithi

Today will fan the flames and stoke the fire within. How do you use this heat for positive forces? Moon moves through the powerful Swati star today as Vayu brings his windy gusts as a resource for change. The wind god can bring soft breezes that cool and refresh, or powerful storms that destroy. Wind supports movement on every level- whether internally in the physical body or through nature's moving air. As a Vasu Deva, Vayu increases illumination and insight and is fond of being seen and noticed, lit up and shining. Keep moving towards your light source. Take conscious steps to activate and bring clarity to your goals and desires. What are you creating in your life? What support and resources do you need to increase your strength and momentum? Connect with your emotional body today very diligently. Let it guide you and give you answers.

Monday, February 1st
Moon in the 9th tithi

Swati's movement and momentum carries through the first half of Monday, guaranteeing a fast paced start. Just after 13:00 PST, Moon shifts to Vishaka nakshatra and the support of allies and companions arrives. Both Indra and Agni rule this nakshatra- each dependent on the other for gains and accomplishments. King and priest are interdependent on each other. Both rely on the others strengths, skills and resources in order to do their own job and carry out their own dharma. This is a reminder that we can not work alone. Relationships, co-creation and connection are vital to humans, and our ability to thrive. Who and what are you calling in today to support you? What do you need for greater nourishment and ease? Who can help you accomplish this task? Reach out, so others can reach back.


* All timing given in Pacific Standard Time Zone.

The confusion around Rahu and Ketu's transit have started well in advance of their change to Leo and Aquarius. In typical lunar node fashion, there seems to be many discrepancies about the actual date Rahu and Ketu change signs. Many astrologers appear to be sharing different transit dates. Using very precise ayanamsa calculations from my mentor and the Jaimini jyotish tradition, my transit date is January 29th at 19:09 PST. (I use Mean Node calculations, i.e. no wobble.)

The effects of this transit have already been felt for weeks now, due to Rahu and Ketu being at the very edge of Virgo and Pisces, preparing to leap. This 1.5 year transit will be official on the 29th. Vulnerability has been arriving and a certain intensification of our personal mythology from the past year and a half has been arriving. Have you noticed where the challenges and themes you've encountered during 2015, are re-surfacing and provoking you right now? Notice where these challenges and overwhelm are effecting you on the mental and emotional body levels. These pieces of your story are being enlivened and charged, brought to the surface of your awareness, so you can more fully release and heal.

Often with major transits like these, we will feel the effects weeks, even months, in advance. Be gentle and kind to yourself right now and remember that others are likely feeling this too! The agitation, frustrations and overwhelm are likely being increased due to the holidays and new year. This season seems to amplify people's emotions- whether they are conscious of it or not.

Rahu will transit Leo until August 17th 2017 and Ketu will transit Aquarius during the same period. Always moving in opposition, seven signs away from each other, the lunar nodes bring us our karma in very tangible ways. In fact, if it weren't for Rahu and Ketu, there would not be a karmic reason for you to be alive in human form. The placement of Rahu and Ketu in one's natal chart very directly expresses the purpose and path of an individual in this incarnation. Study the lunar nodes in your natal chart for a very clear expression of your life purpose- as clear as the nodes can be.

The reality is that Rahu and Ketu are not straight-forward. Nothing they do or say is clear cut or easy to interpret. They are notorious for being confusing, vague, illusive and misinterpreted. If it weren't for Rahu and Ketu, life would run fairly smoothly!

Read more about about the nature of these karmic points below. For personal guidance and support, and to discuss how this transit will effect you, please book a session with me.

Rahu and Ketu: The Gifts of The Shadows

Rahu and Ketu are not planets at all, they are mathematical points on either side of the Moon with rather significant implications on our Self experience. The Moon is arguably the most influential part of the chart- indicating our experiences within the womb and our relationship with mother, as well as our inner nature. The Moon is our guide for emotional well being and our connection to our intuitive self. In fact, the Moon is so important to our life experience, the relationship the nodes have with the Moon indicates their impact on our emotional well being- among other things. Rahu and Ketu, the Moon and the rest of the chart, all create our own unique stories, mythologies and individual karmic dramas. Read more about the importance of the Moon.

The nodes, as Rahu and Ketu are referred to, are mischievous in nature. They present our karmas to us in this incarnation. Without them, and their very valuable life lessons, we would not have incarnated into a human body. They are essential to this lila, this play of life, that we are involved with in this dimension. Both Rahu and Ketu have their own unique array of offerings, but because they are shadow "planets" they often evade prediction. Their nature is to deceive, mystify, to be illusive, and to blind us from our true nature. They represent forces that can't be seen and are the parts of ourselves that go unnoticed and unrecognized. When, and if, the shadow or veil of illusion is removed, and we do see what has been hidden from us, it is often extremely painful. Rahu and Ketu request that we ask ourselves: What am I not seeing or what am I not willing to see? What am I clinging to and unable to let go of?

In order to understand the nature of Rahu and Ketu, it helps to have a little background on how they came to be. In Vedic lore, Rahu (north node) and Ketu (south node) came into being during the famous story of the churning of the ocean of milk (the Milky Way). As the devas (gods) were creating this great churning, amrita, the nectar of immortality arose (think churning milk into butter). The devas, however, needed the asuras (demons) to help them with this task and they had to work together to get the job done. As the immortal nectar was created and obtained from this "great churning", Vishnu made certain that it was only given to the devas. However, one asura named Svarbhanu, outsmarted Vishnu and the other devas. He disguised himself as a deva and got in line to have a drop of the sacred nectar given to him. The story goes that he hid between the Sun and the Moon so no one would notice him.

Just as Vishnu poured a drop of nectar into Svarbhanu's mouth, the Sun and Moon recognized that he was actually an asura! Vishnu chopped him in half, but it was too late. A drop of the immortal nectar was already in his mouth! Thus the two halves, Rahu and Ketu were born. The head of the asura who ingested the immortal nectar became Rahu and the lower half, the body of the asura, became Ketu. Rahu and Ketu are the head and tail of the demon, often referred to as the serpent. A lunar eclipse is connected to Rahu- this happens when he tries to eat the Moon, but it falls right out of him. Ketu is connected to the Solar eclipse. 

This epic story is truly metaphoric on so many levels of life. It expresses the interplay of light and dark and how interdependent they both are on each other. These two facets of life are of course alive and well within our own nature and thus the play of shadow and light becomes our dance in life as well.

Rahu is the head of the serpent and has an insatiable appetite for the material world (his cravings for obtaining the nectar) and intoxicants of all kinds. He brings shock and the dark side of life and he can bring sudden changes, upheavals, even quick boons. Where Saturn brings sorrow, sadness and grief- the natural darkness that is life- Rahu brings an intensified demented version of this darkness; he manipulates and obscures everything he touches. Addictions and confusion are Rahu's domain as well as disturbances and trauma. He does not allow us to think clearly and brings deceit and dishonesty with him. That said, there are worldly benefits that come with him as well. He can give money, profits and excesses from the material world. He loves the foreign and unusual, which can offer great learning and awareness as a result. Enjoyable and exotic travels can also come with Rahu. Professions that require lying, cheating and stealing (politicians for example) will get benefits from Rahu.

Where Rahu may give, Ketu takes away, and is responsible for "cutting the ties that bind us to the material world". If we are attached to it, Ketu can and will cut those attachments loose- eventually. That is his job- to help us realize intimately the impermanence of this life. He is highly spiritual and not interested in the material realms at all. He will either grant access to spiritual advancement or deny it; Ketu is connected to Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Since Ketu is just a body (no head) he literally has no mind. He can either show madness and complete craziness like schizophrenia, or certain zen states of no-mind which are more spiritual in experience. Ketu is a moksha planet, connected to liberation, letting go and deep surrender. Rahu and Ketu are always seven houses away from each other. They are always looking directly at each other, thus, whatever Rahu gives, Ketu will be sure to take it away.

The nodes are always moving against the direction of the other planets, in retrograde fashion. All the planets retrograde periodically (except for Sun and Moon) and when they do, they are said to be acting like Rahu and Ketu as a result. Our cravings, desires and fears are all connected to Rahu and Ketu. They instigate our pains, sorrows and drive us to take actions or no actions. They are our shadowed sides and will indicate what we are moving towards and away from in this life time. Thanks to Rahu and Ketu, we are guaranteed to grow in this life, but it may not be the pleasant kind of growth.

Wondering how this transit of Rahu and Ketu will specifically effect you? Ask me about my jyotish sessions.

On January 29th at 19:09 PST, Rahu leaps into Leo, running right into retrograde Jupiter at the edge of this passionate, heart-centered sign. The corridor will be open wide with Rahu and Jupiter standing in the doorway of Leo (sandhi) at the edge, until Jupiter moves deeper into Leo days later. Rahu, however, doesn't move out of the 28 degree range until March. The netherworld will be activated and alive for most of February, supporting connection with the spirit world, liminal space and the transcendence.

Sandhi planets are vulnerable, delicate and powerful in their ambiguity. It's true, sandhi planets lack the grounding and stability that a planet who is clearly situated within a sign may offer. It is as though the planet hasn't fully decided if it is in the house that it is in. It is on its way in or out, but hasn't decided which one it will be. Its bags are still packed, boxes are still full, and it may not know if it's here or there. It's a traveler. It's in limbo.

This sense of here nor there, however, can offer some profound insights and awareness. Nothing is all good nor all bad, and this is quite true with sandhi planets. The gap offers us a connection to the mystical realms, the nether realms, and can offer great depth and awareness with what feels untouchable most of the time (or all the time depending on the individual). Planets that are sandhi offer potential, possibility, unique insights and depth as a result of their "otherworldly" connections.

The collision of Jupiter and Rahu in Leo will provoke an interesting dance between the god-self and human-self. Saturn gives his stern, forceful gaze to these two planets from his perch in Scorpio. This focused energy will add an extra layer of intensity to the already powerful force of Jupiter and Rahu. When the energy of Rahu and Saturn conjoin, a Rudra effect is stirred. This can bring power, potency and intense movement as well as quick changes. This combination increases the theme of working with power authentically and carefully which will intensify after Jupiter moves to Virgo in August.

Rahu and Jupiter invite an integration of opposing forces. Rahu is a demon who tricked the gods into giving him a drink of their immortal nectar. His craving for immortality, left him severed, chopped in half and still longing for what he could not have. Rahu expresses your human qualities, shadow nature and strong desires. His opposite is Jupiter- ruler of the devas, the gods. He encourages sattva, spiritual pursuits and pure knowledge.

As Rahu conjuncts retrograde Jupiter in Leo, there will be an adjustment phase for the coming weeks and months. This is a time for your inner god to meet your inner demon, your light to meet your darkness. These forces are at play within each one of us. What is your relationship with your darkness? With your light? This will be an opportunity to get more intimate with your modes of operation. Wherever you've been neglecting your darkness, spiritually by-passing, or avoiding it unconsciously, it will show up to test you and your power at this time.

Normally, Jupiter is a comfort and a support, yet the relationship between Jupiter and Rahu is contradictory. Your demon and god qualities will be forced to face each other in the first six months of this cycle. How can both get their needs met, in order for greater harmony within? Where have you been avoiding this integration of your human and god qualities? This is a great time to be aware of where you may be refusing to look at your human parts with authenticity. Simultaneously, spirit is a great ally and a wonderful resource for extra support. However, even spirit wants you to evolve as a human being. It's time to be a fully integrated human. Gather the resources you need for this process.

You may feel a tension between desires and "doing what's right", challenges and resources, darkness and light. This may also be a time where any spiritual by-passing you have created, will work its way to the surface- in order to be acknowledged and released. Darkness and challenges may also receive the gifts of nourishment, ease, comfort and extra support. Opposing forces will find a natural integration, harmony and new found balance. What resources and extra support do you need for more integration and balance?

Let chaos and calamity come in as a cleaning force. What is your relationship with your inner power? With the power of others? Notice your reaction and response to this energy. Do you step in, step out, gain consciousness or unconsciousness? Use your creative powers to shift and transform the intensity into a healing balm. Can you allow in more ease? Do you accept and receive support and resources to help? Where are you saying yes? Where are you saying no?

On August 11th 2016, Jupiter moves to Virgo for his year long transit through this earth sign, leaving Rahu alone in Leo. With the gaze of Saturn now solely on Rahu, without the buffering effects of Jupiter, this will increase Rudra's powerful effect. The last year of Rahu's transit through Leo will provide much work with power, authority, the masculine, passion, pleasure and your desires. Using your power in authentic and balanced ways will be vital. Misalignment with your power will become excruciating. Tolerance for those who misuse their power will lessen. Watch for righteous indignation, refusal to see others' opinions as relevant or important. Resistance, force and aggression may increase towards those with opposing views. Passions may flair and intensify. How are you using your immense power and strength?

Your heart wisdom is your biggest resource of power and strength. It's vital that you honor this part of your nature and learn to express your emotional body wisdom more authentically. Pride and the wisdom of the lion can be called upon for extra support. Let the spirit of the lion become an ally for you during this cycle. The bravery, courage and commitment to honor is encouraged. Let your fearless passion be used for positivity and channel it into worthwhile causes.

Be aware of over-working and being out of balance with how you use your inner fire and air elements. This is a combination for a lot of hot air to increase as well as fire to be blown around unnecessarily. Use this time-period as an opportunity to notice when you are in right-relationship with your power and when you are not. Can you sense this and feel it in your body? What experiences, relationships and actions support this feeling? Which ones do not?

Big movement, shifts and changes will be occurring in this cycle. What changes are you creating? How do you respond to these changes? How will you direct your sails?

Leo and Fifth House Matters

Attributes of Leo, the fifth house and its ruling planet, Sun, will provoke and increase themes related to these parts of your natal chart. Your relationship with Sun, Leo and the fifth house, will determine much of what effects you during this cycle.

Leo, or Simha, in Sanskrit is symbolized by a lion and connected to the fifth house in the jyotish chart. The qualities expressed by this sign are likened to its ruler, the Sun, and being seen in big, bold ways. Goddess Durga is often depicted riding a lion or tiger and is connected to strength, health, power and overcoming challenges. Her power is an invitation to strengthen ourselves during this cycle. Other themes arrive around leadership, dominance, authority and power. Leos often have to work with ego issues, their relationship with authority and power, as well as father issues and ancestral issues. The important body parts connected to Leo and the fifth house are stomach and abdomen, the seat of the solar plexus, our power center.

The fifth house is directly connected to our power and passionate- just like the energy of a Leo. It is also the house of children, creativity and creative life force energy, and the potency of procreation. Romance and lovers are also strong as a result of this energy. Since the stomach, or upper gut, is intimately associated with our instincts, this house combines with intelligence and intellect or buddhi, as well as the intuition. By extension, education and learning are fifth house matters as well as intelligence we gain through life experience- which can sometimes be formal, but not necessarily.

As Jupiter moves through the sign of Leo, many of these themes connected to power, creativity, romance, passion and being seen, will expand for us. Look for deepening awareness, wisdom and visibility with these areas of life as a result of this transit. The personal effects of this transit will be determined by your own Jyotish chart and how well Jupiter is able to express himself in your chart. Now is an ideal time to prepare for the upcoming transit with extra guidance and support, as well as having a Jupiter yagya for a smoother transition.

Shadowed Power

As Rahu and Ketu move into Leo and Aquarius on January 29th, 2016, a conjunction of Jupiter's purity collides with Rahu's shadow and confusion. Rahu has an intense appetite for worldly gains, has strong desires and won't take no for an answer. Jupiter's nature is one of gentle strength, expanding wisdom and pure intentions. Their energies oppose and negate each other. Wherever Jupiter is in one's jyotish chart, he enhances and supports the other grahas (planets) and the house where he is placed. He is after all a strong support and ally. Rahu, however, will ruin Jupiter’s satvic (pure) nature and destroys that which Jupiter values most. Jupiter may be able to soften Rahu, but Rahu’s nature taints Jupiter’s benefic, spiritual qualities.

With Saturn giving his gaze to Leo from his position in Scorpio, he gives his pressure to Jupiter and now Rahu in Leo as well. We get increased pressure, stress and tension with all matters of Leo as a result. The collision of Saturn and Rahu's energy in this powerful and dynamic sign will bring increased strength and potential, while simultaneously offering intensified storms and power issues.

This will be a time to temper one's worldly cravings, as they will likely be stronger and more excessive. We may notice an intense strength increase within us, while we also struggle with our sense of power and identity simultaneously. There may be extra challenges with authority figures, our fathers and those in support roles as a result. If we are in these roles, we may experience challenges and obstructions with regard to sharing our power, strength and passion- depending on the placement of these planets in one's natal chart.

Self identity and self awareness will be very prominent themes for this Jupiter/Rahu in Leo cycle. Finding increased growth, wisdom and nourishment for the ego will be a part of the transit as well. Children, relationships and romance will be important factors at play, as well as creativity and passion. However, the personal effects of this transit will be determine by your own Jyotish chart and how well Jupiter is able to express himself in your chart. The placement of the Sun, your 5th house and other factors in your natal chart will also play a role in the outcome of this year long cycle.

Read more about Jupiter's transit through Leo and the effects on each sign.

Ketu is the moksha planet. He brings liberation, release and letting go. Usually this process is sudden, forced or traumatic. He acts quickly, like a flash of lighting and can fray and frazzle the mind, emotions and body, increasing sensitivity. Ketu symbolizes the spirit world and the ancestors by default. His ways are often harsh, yet necessary for letting go of the attachments of this human existence.

As Ketu shifts into Aquarius, he activates a Saturn and Rahu ruled sign. This dual rulership is symbolic of the Aquarian way. There is an integration of opposites to be had. A necessary balance that must be found. Saturn is your suffering and grief, while Rahu is the shadow and illusion that provokes this. Saturn is the physical body, a grounding force, the substance of the earth, while Rahu is decapitated, ungrounded and lacks stability. Ketu's movement through Aquarius can be a wake-up call that can instigate deeper healing, but it will likely not be accomplished with comfort and ease.

Humans cling and resist change due to past suffering. A false sense of comfort can lead you astray for years without attending to shadow, illusions or challenges effectively. Ketu is the antidote for the natural human tendency to grip. Yet, the release- whether sudden or slow- can be excruciating for most. Your ability to let release take place will determine your discomfort with the process. Can you let go and surrender? Or do you white knuckle it and intensify your grip? Wherever you are not willing to release, Ketu will bring his moksha tactics to force it.

With Ketu in Aquarius, an exchange of sorts will occur with Saturn transiting Scorpio. Ketu is considered exalted in Scorpio, while Saturn rules Aquarius. Ketu does well in Scorpio because it thrives on constant change and transformation- which instigates deeper awareness and growth. Saturn provides the stability and grounding that is vital for the ingenuity of Aquarius. This exchange will intensify the upheaval and growth process of this cycle. The challenge will be to find grounding resources and stabilizing forces in the process. Saturn insures that the physical body will be a valuable resource for this, while this combination will support deep somatic experiences and awakenings as a result. Use the physical body as a conduit for change, for healing and transformation. Let its messages awaken you.

Dr. Gabor Mate and his addiction studies have illuminated the reality that pain is the root cause of addiction. (This corroborates with the Jyotish understanding that Rahu is both addiction, cravings and the illusions that cause ones suffering). The brain craves more suffering to feel "normal" and tries to induce it through substances, experiences or choices in order for another "fix". The only way to break this cycle, is to lean into the pain and work with it, loosen its grip. As you work with your shadows, the illusions that increase your suffering, they can move towards the surface of your being. When darkness becomes evident, it can become light; it can be liberated.

Ketu instigates this process by breaking the darkness (Rahu) open so that the light can enter. Aquarius shows you where you are gripping and must release; what door needs to be closed so another can be opened. Just like the eleventh house, Aquarius poses pluses and minuses. Both express the silver lining of life when we are willing to release and let go. The gain can not arrive without the vital and necessary close of something else.

This cycle will request releasing, closing doors and letting go- in order for new doors to open and gains to be had. What are you willing to let go of? Where are you resisting? How can you lean in closer? Listen to your body wisdom for guidance and resources. Notice where there is gripping and tightening in the physical body. These points of pain, pressure and tenderness are places that request awakening. Places where the body has had to grip at some point in order to support you and stabilize you during challenges, struggles, pains and traumas. Lean in closer to these tender places and use them to help you awaken from your slumber. I'll be sharing more resources along the way to help you with this process.

Aries: Children, romance and pleasure become compelling and potent resources of growth for you in this transit. They provide you with new ways of experiencing your power and purpose. Your gut wisdom is a powerful resource for deepening your inner knowing. Trust it and get intimate with its messages. It has a lot to share with you about your self and will help you grow on multiple levels- including your dharmic work. Luck and gains come when you align more potently with spirit and spiritual resources. Relationships will require re-structuring and letting go. This is an opportunity for you to learn more about being in relationship. How can you clarify your needs and the way you show up for others? Find a new relationship with inner and outer balance.

Taurus: Spirituality is your offering to the world and this cycle is teaching you how. Pay close attention to the resources and support coming to you as these are gifts in disguise. If you aren't on your true path, there will be many challenges and difficulties. If you're neglecting spirit, your steps will be almost impossible. Let your spiritual body lead you towards your offering. The internet and computers, as well as photography, will all be helpful in order to share your message. Allow your heart wisdom to pull you closer to your desires and passions. Be truthful and honest about your need for pleasure and find ways to align with nourishment in more intimate ways. You will know it is nourishing by the way it makes you feel. Pay close attention to your emotional body wisdom and let it guide you.

Gemini: Creativity is your most potent resource in this cycle. Increase your creative courage. Work with your hands and learn their languages of creative intelligence. Dance, create music, paint and let this creative power move through you. Express, share and connect with new resources and relationships in order to broaden your horizons and expand what is possible for yourself. You are aligning with dharma more potently, more directly, so honor your path and say yes more fully. Spirit will help you with this process, but you must be willing to radically let go of all the things standing in your way. That which is not serving your highest purpose, your passions and your awakening. Be the example for others and share your message loud and clear.

Cancer: Nourishment is the driving force for you right now. Deepening inner nourishment and your sense of thriving are compelling- almost compulsive at times. You are learning more intimately what true nourishment actually is and how to create this in your life. Surrender to the messages- forcing will get you nothing but obstacles. What feeds you deeply? Mentally, emotionally, physically and spiritually? Make sure your nourishment is well rounded and supports all levels of your being. There is increase with being fed by life- including money. This comes through your efforts and alignment with your life offerings, your dharma. If there is challenge and struggle, this is a message that you are not in right-relationship with your path. Make necessary adjustments. Simultaneously be diligent about clearing unconscious and subconscious patterns- the ones that keep you in lack, in malnourishment. Let spirit support this clearing and release. Ask for more support and listen to the messages. 

Leo: Let relationships awaken you. Find ways to let spirit into your relationships and honor the wisdom that is being shared. You are getting a wake up call so pay close attention to how you use the mirror being shown to you. Spirit will help you align with your needs and desires more closely. Lean in and listen carefully. The places that are painful and challenging are an invitation to release, let go and re-structure what is not working. You may find there's a lot of letting go of relationships, or finding new ways of being in them. Create new boundaries, new pathways, new possibilities for relating. Simultaneously, people are noticing you in new ways and you are being seen in more powerful ways. Get your priorities straight. Clarify your vision. Be bold in your self expansion. Work with the ego directly and you'll save yourself a lot of headaches.

Virgo: This cycle requires rest, ample alone time and radical release. There is liberation awaiting you, but not without effort and hard work. Dig into unconscious and subconscious inner terrain and acknowledge your shadow parts more directly. Learn from your heart wisdom, as it will show you the way. As you step into this path of deep inner work and powerful transformation, you are awakening your inner healing powers. Ask spirit for support with this process and gather the wisdom being shared to you from the inside. Let this be an offering to others. Share your inner wisdom and let it be a gift for others walking a similar path. You are not alone, even if it feels like it right now.

Libra: Gains and increase come from diligent steps and inner clarity, though it may feel hard to find. Connect with new and foreign people in order to expand your reach. You are learning a lot about your power and purpose. Grow with the obstacles and challenges. These are places where you are resisting or refusing gains and more support in life. Your gut wisdom and intelligence will be supporting this clarity. Clear, purge, release from the gut level- in order for greater clarity on all levels of your being. Get grounded, root into your physical body and first chakra- using legs and pelvis as a resource for feeling extra support and stability within. As you deepen your relationship with this feeling of stability, you can create more of it in your life.

Scorpio: Crack your heart wide open and say yes to the new. Radically release parts of you that are keeping your heart restricted. Where are you resisting this opening? Allow in the heat and pressure- lean in and surrender, rather than pushing against it. Your heart is awakening in new ways, which will help you feel the world in more incredible ways. Say Yes. Be clear with what you need both personally and professionally and then go for the gold. Get seen, noticed and heard. Be more visible with your work and your endeavors. Integrate worldly and spiritual pursuits. Foreigners and foreign lands may be fruitful. Expand your horizons and think bigger.

Sagittarius: This is a powerful transit for your dharma. Part of you will be strongly resisting your dharmic work, while the other part of you will be showing up more fully. Which part of yourself gets the most energy and attention? You are learning from your inner power. Some of it is harsh and brutal, while the rest of it is trying to show you a different way. Can you hold both parts and honor them? This is the recipe for stepping into a new relationship with your power. You will have to befriend your inner authority figure in more diligent ways. Lean in and listen closely to its needs. Get courageous with your creativity. Let go of relationships that are beyond repair, restructure those that need new boundaries. Attract more of what you do want by clarifying your power and purpose. Clearing the limiting beliefs holding you back will create the space you need to invite in the new.

Capricorn: You are in a powerful transformation process. The kind that starts deep within your being and digs up very unconscious material, then brings it to the surface for you to acknowledge. This hidden shadow material is keeping you from the deep nourishment you crave. As you dig deeper, as you face your challenges and inner conflicts head on, you will gain access to the pieces keeping you from more life force energy. This is the key to increasing your power, strength and vitality. All the hidden pain is keeping you dis-empowered and feeling the lack, rather than the potent abundance that surrounds you. Align with spirit for messages that can support your process. Listen to spirit for resources that will bring you a broader reach, more visibility and greater ability to heal yourself and others. These messages come from within. As you clear and release the old, you are creating more powerful space for the new.

Aquarius: This is a shedding phase. One that requires intimate release and radical letting go. Deep surrender is essential- either by choice or force. Right now you are being offered ways to re-structure your life, though it may be extremely uncomfortable. So many opportunities and possibilities are available to you, that you may feel crazy or overwhelmed at times. Grounding and landing in the body is essential. The ability to disconnect and disassociate from your body is too easy. Relationships will likely challenge your ability to stay connected to your self. There's a lot of learning taking place in this cycle with your relationships. Let the mirror of "other" teach you what you want and what you don't want. Make choices and create clear boundaries accordingly. The compulsion to be in relationship is strong, but that doesn't mean it's a good idea. Be selective, be discerning. 

Pisces: Healing is your primary focus in this cycle. Heal yourself and use this wisdom to heal and support others. Clear and clean your gut and colon, in order to clarify your inner awareness and deepen your ability to hear its wisdom. This is vital for your life's work, your offerings to the world. Clearing your gut will also strengthen your inner power and passion. Liberate and release on all levels of your being- physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Simplify and settle into the silence within you. Deepen your relationship with spirit and honor Her wisdom moving through you. Ask spirit for resources to support you with your radical release process. Change your inner and outer environments so they are more harmonized with your need for sacredness.