Showing posts with label Astrology. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Astrology. Show all posts

Friday, January 27, 2017

2017 Year of the Fire Rooster



Chinese astrology is considered to be one of the world's oldest forms of Astrology.  Unlike the other Moon-school traditions; Tibetan, Vedic and Judaic, which are couched in religion, Chinese astrology is purely secular, a direction shared by Sun-school astrologies (Western and Arabian).

Ming Shu (Circle of Animals), is just one form of Chinese astrology, but it seems to be the one that is most commonly recognized by westerners.  This system is what Sun signs are to Western astrology, meaning, you only have to know the year of your birth to create a general personality profile.  Like all of the world's major astrological traditions however, a person's time, date and place of birth are essential to create an accurate, true birth chart.

2017 is the year of the fire Rooster (chi'), and people born between January 31, 1957 and February 17, 1958 are members of the Fire Rooster Zodiac Sign.

Although there are general behavioral patterns associated with the Rooster (chi') sign, the delineation is further augmented according to which element (earth, metal, fire, water, wood) happens to be in control the year that you are born.  For example, the personality of a fire Rooster is different from that of a wood Rooster etc.  So, just because you are a Rooster (chi') in Chinese astrology does not mean that this is your year.

In general, the Rooster (chi') is very intelligent and honest.  They also possess an excellent memory.
He or she can be quite a showman with much vanity, and possesses remarkable candor.  This person can also place too much emphasis on the trees, instead of the forest so to speak.

The fire Rooster is a highly motivated, single minded person.  They can become almost fanatical when it comes to investigation and details.  This can cause problems with coworkers who do not have the same work ethic or are not very conscientious about their work and work habits.

Although in 2017 fire Roosters will have to work hard and be patient to achieve their goals, they will also experience a surge of productive energy in order to do so.  Expect a lot of mental activity.

2017 is Yin year and will be ruled by the fire element.  The fire element is a boiling, hot force that rises upward.  Although a fire element person is enlightened and possesses much wisdom, they can also have an emotional state that is volatile.  A fire element person possesses natural leadership qualities.  they are also highly motivated and optimistic. 

The color for 2017 is red, although it is not advised to wear things that are red.  Instead, concentrate on colors that complement red or calm red.



*Information for this post was taken from Miller and Brown's "The Complete Astrological Handbook for the Twenty-first Century"; Understanding and Combining the Wisdom of Chinese, Tibetan, Vedic, Arabian, Judaic, and Western Astrology.  Also, Qi Journal.





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Thursday, March 13, 2014

The Glass, Astrologically Half Empty

My husband and I recently found ourselves cleaning out my mother's apartment so that we could move her into an Assisted Living facility.  As I went through her library, I was amazed to find book after book after book, on how to be positive and live a good life.  I'm talking about old books.  Books that she has had and referred to for at least 50 or 60 years.

As long as I can remember my mother strived to be a positive person.  Considering that she was someone who managed to envision the worst possible outcome for every conceivable seniaro known to man, and that gloom and doom seemed to dominate her outlook on life, and I'm sure there were times when it was very difficult for her to maintain any kind of positive balance what so ever.  Looking back, her attitude often made me quite tired.   But, I really don't think I truly appreciated how difficult her efforts to be positive must have been for her at the time.

Today I was looking on Facebook and took special note of all the beautiful, positive quotes that normally pop up every morning in my feed.  I know, those are the pages that I select.  Who I choose to friend and who I want to see in my feed.   No, I don't care to see who got drunk last night, or what political spew is trending for the day.  The people and pages that I view are the ones who gently remind me to be happy, centered, and hopefully, more enlightened.  I thought about my mother again as I looked through my feed.  How she off handily would joke that I could somehow manage see the sunshine no matter how rotten the situation.  Yes, I suppose there's truth in that, but is it something that naturally occurs within me? What I naturally gravitate towards?  Do I seek out the constant prompts and reminders?  Or, do they seek me?

A few weeks ago I found my mother's natal chart tucked away in a book that I had shipped home.  My mom was a pretty astute astrologer.  Definitely ahead of her time in many ways, especially given that she grew up and lived her life in a conservative area of the Midwest.   Evidently she had commissioned her own birth chart to be drawn up by a respected astrologer sometime in the early 1950's.  As I looked it over, there plain as day in the interpretation, the astrologer had written - "try as they may, this individual will probably always manage to view life through a half empty glass", and that "they should seek to overcome this tendency during this lifetime".

I was surprised, though not surprised when I read that, yet I couldn't help but wonder.  How set in stone are our lives as designated by our birth charts?  Sure, we can strive to live good positive lives and be the best we can be, but if you are given a predetermined set of parameters to function in within this lifetime, with specific karmic constraints in your path, are you still destined to function within the confines of those set measures?  Can an individual only improve so much or progress so far in this lifetime?  Maybe.  It's a very interesting subject if you think about it.  There are certainly a variety of religious and philological beliefs and interpretations that explore those questions, yet alone the opinions of those who study and practice astrology.

As I write this article and my thoughts continue to wonder, I should point out that if you are a student of astrology or metaphysics and have never had a proper chart drawn up by a respected astrologer, you really should.  My mother, of course, had mine drawn up at birth.  I have to say, it has provided invaluable insights into by life over the years.  I have definitely benefited from knowing what my personal sinkholes are, and also when and how to not fly too close to the Sun, so that I do not become my own Icras.
Going through your birth chart when you are in your 20's vs your 50's is also an eye opener.  The years just affirm and reaffirm what was charted so long ago - what you've noticed about yourself and the trends in your life over the passing years. 

Getting back to subject of positive living and half empty glasses -
In my birth chart did the astrologer say that I would also probably view life through a half empty glass?

You can probably guess -

Not hardly.

Here's to you mom.
You certainly get an A for effort anyway ~



enjoy your day

diane



Flower photo by diane fergurson



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Thursday, February 14, 2013

When Did You Meet? Attraction and the Zodiac's Chart Zones


It's Valentine's Day - love is in the air, and this is probably one of the most popular times of the year for anything having to do with astrology and horoscopes.

In a recent article in Dell Horoscope magazine titled Cosmic Chemistry; The Zodiac's Laws of Attraction, author Sioux Rose reminds us that a person's relationship with their significant other is not only impacted by whether the individual signs are compatible, but also what  Zodiac sign was present when they first met.  In other words, if the couple meets in Taurus, the energy expressed will be quite different then if they would have bonded in Virgo.

 I honestly had to go back and think about that one for myself - when did I meet my husband?  But when I finally remembered and checked with the information in the article, I was pretty surprised how accurate the author was about the nature of the union.

Below are some excerpts from the article.  For more in depth information I suggest you pick up a copy of the April issue of Dell Magazine for yourself.  While it is always wisest to consult the personal astrology chart as a whole, the way couples bond during the influence of specific signs is very interesting, and can certainly cast a new light upon relationships and how they function during this lifetime.
What you find out might surprise you!

Enjoy your Valentine's Day!


- When Aries (March 19/20 to April 19/20) is the cosmic zone where the Sun and Moon or Venus and Mars unite, the couple will be blessed with the gift of innocence.  There is a child-like innocence to the way Aries approaches the world and everything in it. The karmic challenge here is what is inherent in the fire itself (Aries is a fire sign).  Fire can fuel or it can destroy.

- When Sun and Moon or Venus and Mars meet in Taurus (April 19/20 to May 20/21), the magnetic power of Mother Earth Blesses the union.  The Moon is exalted in Taurus, so that means there is an inherent stability built into the bond and it is not unusual to find couples working together or in business partnerships.  The two challenges that stand out in this cosmic bond are stubbornness (Taurus the Bull) and also overindulgence of sensual pleasures...such as over eating and partying too much.

- When the pair meets in Gemini (May 20/21 to June 20/21), there is never a dull moment.  Gemini is an air sign, and the couple will most likely find themselves on the move involved in all kinds of activities and social events. They will be interested and involved in many things during their lifetime.  This is a bond that thrives in a busy household.  The challenge in this relationship is to make sure that the individuals do not over compartmentalize themselves to the point that the work or social persona does not develop too differently from the private or personal self.  An example of this is the politician or business person who espouse values of one type, then act in a completely opposite way in their private life.

-  Attitude and emotions characterize a bond formed in Cancer (June 20/21 to July 22).  The dynamics of each person's natal chart come in to play (particularly aspects to the Moon), and according to the birth blueprint it will either activate or agitate the union.  Couples whose planets come together in Cancer need homes that are free of discord and a place where they can experience a shared state of security.  If too much stress is encountered inside the residence, it could lead to psychological or medical problems in one partner or both.


- When a couple meets under Leo ( July 22 to August 22/23), life becomes the great romance.  It may also become the "great comedy" or tragedy.  The dramatic plays a huge role for the Leo, and as with most things, and "All the World's a Stage".  The sign of Leo is about great creativity, so a union under this category also has the potential to catalyze many joint creative projects and ventures.  This sign also understands the hearts of children so any fusion centered in Leo should see children factor substantially into their lives.  Leo's tie to the Sun inclines those who hold this signature to spread the light of higher understanding.  Pride is the element that can work against it.

- A fusion focused within Virgo (August 22/23 to September 22/23) is apt to focus the couple on healing and therapy.  They want to help people live a better life and most likely will become involved with professions, interests or studies that reflect this.  Virgo is also a very work oriented sign.  They also take their work home with them as a result of their constant need for perfection.  Virgo's inferior mandate for order, added to the urge to fix, edit, clean organize or clear away, is always operating.  That makes it difficult for a couple to relax.  The key to this relationship is to turn recreation into a task, and Virgo will enjoy it.  A couple under this union could also be given to criticism, emphasizing each other's small flaws instead of enjoying the positive side of the relationship.

- Libra (September 22/23 to October 22/23) is the sign that is assigned to the realm of marriage, and it's a wonderful time for a couple to meet each other.  Libra is all about balance, and no other sign is as partnership oriented or more given to the needs of it's partner then Libra.  The most common liability from this union could spring from indecisiveness.  Libra also represents neutrality, so these couples often see the logic on both side of the question, and could become non active on issues as a result.  In other words, noting gets done.

- Scorpio (October 22/23 to November 21/22) is the sign of alchemy and transformation, and a fusion within this sign would result with a deep bonding experienced between partners, both physically and/or spiritually.  It is also the sign associated with regeneration and rejuvenation and couples who connect through Scorpio's Alchemy may also find this a theme throughout many varying aspects of their lives.  There is no sign that holds the lessons of forgiveness higher on it's karmic roster then Scorpio.  Depending on other aspects of the individual charts, Scorpio's retaliatory stinging tail could also cause major afflictions to those who meet under this zone.

- The Sagittarius (November 21/22 to December 21) fusion zone is full of optimism, hope, and a joyous sense of life's wonders and possibilities.  It is also the sign connected to the worlds of religion, academe and publishing...and couples who meet meet during this time may often find themselves connected within those areas.  Sagittarius is also a mutable sign, and mutable signs carry the karmic signature of inner division. Temperaments may ride high with exuberance, but they can also crash with dark moments of despair.  In other words, a rocky road of emotions may be the case with a couple who meets under this influence.

-  Capricorn (December 21 to January 19/20) is the sign directly ruled by Saturn, the zodiac's lord of karma, and any bond formed under this fusion is apt to be karmic, satisfying commitments and promises that were made in previous lifetimes.  It may also involve restrictions on one or both partner's lives.  The Capricorn fusion can be thought of as boot camp.  One or both partners may be strict in nature, or one partner could exert more control over the other.  The pair is also apt to focus particular goals, often professional, and their lives will serve to further those objectives.  If the other planets are supporting, this pair will often bond for life and the root that is planted will grow and prosper over their lifetime.   If both partners support each others goals, they could rise quite high in their respective careers and their relationship will have a very solid, enduring lifetime commitment.

- The Aquarian (January 19/20 to February 18) fusion zone produces enormous electricity.  This is the pair that everyone wants on their party guest list!  They can illuminate the room with their natural charisma, no sign is more gregarious.  What can happen under this influence though, is that both partners could become so popular that they have to schedule time just to be together and enjoy each others company.  Also one of the pair could shine more brightly then the other, be even more popular, and that could cause issues in the relationship too.
  
 - Pisces (February 18 to March 19/20) is the last in the Zodiac, and this is where circle meets itself.  It is the sign of dreamers, and although hopes and dreams might be easier to launch from this zone, it's important that at least one of the partners be well grounded or both people will be caught up in an over sensitive, overt imaginative state of being.  The Pisces fusion zone unleashes a full spectrum of emotions, and among them the seductive allure of illusion.  Should one partner become swept up in into a pattern of addiction or escapist behavior, they may try to find a way to hide it.


 So - to all you couples out there, the best of luck!  :)


~ diane



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Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Gemstones of the Zodiac - Part 1 - Opals

Welcome to a new series on Mind Body Spirit Odyssey.  Over the next 12 months, I will be taking a look at the healing and wellness properties for gemstones of the zodiac.  There are many different gemstones assigned to the zodiac, depending on whether you wish to go with a modern, traditional, or other approach.  For the purposes of this series, and in keeping with the Mind Body Spirit Odyssey tradition, I am going to go with the Mystical Zodiac Stone approach.

                                                                                        ~ Giani


The first sign of the Zodiac is Aries (March 21 - April 20).  The Mystical Zodiac stone for Aries is Opal.



 There are several schools of thought on the origin of the word “opal”.  Some say it is from the Sanskrit “upala”, which means “jewel”.  Some say it is from the Latin “opalus”.  The Romans referred to it as “cupid paedros” (beautiful child that signifies love).

Opal is actually a silica gel that has hardened.  This makes is unique in that, unlike most gemstones, it is non-crystalline.  Precious opal, the kind you most often think of when you hear “opal”, refracts light because of the way the silica aligned in the stone’s formation.  It dates back as far as 250 B.C., when Emperor Constantine was said to have placed an opal in his crown, believing it to protect his life. He, and various scholars, believe it to help you become “invisible” at times when you do not wish to be seen.

Opal is believed to be a stone of great intuition, foresight and inspiration, making it a favorite of magicians and alchemists through the years.  Opal’s abilities and strengths are closely tied to its color.  As there are many different colors of opal, each has its own unique properties:


Fire Opal


 Can enhance power and awaken inner fire, helping to let go of past issues.  It can also be used in rituals to increase the passion in a relationship, and awaken sexual energy.



Blue Opal


Allows you to see beyond this plane, into the ethereal, and to become one with all that is around you.  Helps realign past life issues that are having an impact on the here and now.  Also a great stone to use for wishing.



Blue-Green Opal


Removes constrictions and allows you to see things fresh, with new eyes.



Green Opal


This is a great stone to detox both the body and the mind.  It removes all the obstacles and filters and lets you see and feel things more clearly.

 

Pink Opal


Aides in centering and alignment.  Assists in the opening up of the Third Eye, allowing you better insight.



Black Opal


A powerful stone sought by Wiccans and magicians.  It traps the negative, and releases light.  As a result, it will amplify your magic, increase your strength, heighten your sexuality and get you on the right path.



Blue Peruvian Opal

Reduces stress and tension, allowing your ideas to flow more freely.  It can also quiet the mind and relax you enough to sleep.  


 Pink Peruvian Opal




This stone will raise your spirits, bring you to a higher place, and help you develop the yin and yang you need to be more balanced when it comes to being able to give and receive.



One Caveat About Opals

Even though all opals are believed to be good luck stones, they also have a dark side.  The stones will resonate with whatever emotions you are holding tightly.  These stones will heal you if you allow them to.  However, if you hold on to the negative emotions, and block the stones from helping you release them, then the stones will channel those thoughts and emotions with the same power they would have used to dispel them.  So, if you wear opals when in a particularly down time, they will hinder, rather than help.  It is best to wear these stones when you are ready to let go of your issues.

Charge Your Opals

Astrologists believe opals to be a stone of the moon.  If you wish to charge your stones, offer them up to the full moon, to help increase their power.  

Cleanse and Purify Your Stones

For information on how to cleanse your stones,you can refer to this article by Diane Fergurson, published on Mind Body Spirit Odyssey:





You can also read Giani's Tarot reviews in the Review section of this blog.
I'm definitely looking forward to reading more upcoming articles in this wonderful new series, and I thank Giani very much for his wonderful continued contributions to Mind Body Spirit Odyssey.
                                                                                   ~ diane



Series Article Part 2 - Sapphire
Series Article 3 - Amethyst
Series Article 4 - Moonstone
Series Article 6 - Agate





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Friday, March 9, 2012

Duck, Bob And Weave: Mercury Retrograde Is Coming At You Again





In the past I've written articles for our blog, and posted announcements on our Mind Body Spirit Marketplace Facebook Page about upcoming dates for Mercury Retrograde.  Well, the date is upon us once again for this Spring 2012 - March 12 through April 4.  This time it will not only be coinciding with Income Tax time, but also many "end of the year" dates for businesses.  So for those who have not filed your taxes yet, or to those of you involved in a "numbers crunch" for the end of your business year - um, good luck.








Mercury Retrograde 2012

March 11/12 to April 4
July 14 to August 7
November 6 to November 26

2013

February 23 to March 17
June 26 to July 20
October 21 to November 10

2014

February 6 to February 28
June 7 to June 30
October 4 to October 25

As concisely explained by author James R. Lewis in his book  The Astrology Encyclopedia:

“Retrograde refers to the apparent backward motion of a planet in its orbit. Because all planets in the solar system are moving in orbits of different sizes at different rates of speed, there will be periods in the orbit of the Earth when each of the other planets seems to reverse direction for a period of time. The effect can be compared with that of a jet as it passes a slower-moving airplane that is flying in the same direction at a lower altitude: As the pass is made, the slower craft appears – particularly when viewed against the backdrop of the Earth – to be moving in the opposite direction. Similarly, retrograde planets appear to move in reverse direction when viewed against the backdrop of the fixed stars.”

Lewis continues: “Astrologers tend to pay particularly close attention to the retrograde periods of Mercury, ruler of the Mind, communications, travel, and related matters. The period of Mercury’s retrogradation may be considered fortunate for introverted activities like reflection and meditation but it is considered unfortunate for traveling and making important decisions (e.g., signing contracts). Travel is sometimes delayed while Mercury is retrograde, and decisions made during such periods are often reversed after Mercury goes direct.”


I'm going to end this piece by saying that I always find it rather satisfying, but yet amusing when those who "don't believe" in astrology become introduced to Mercury Retrograde and all of a sudden start paying attention to the dates and the activities in their lives.  Then there's always a conversation that begins something like this:   "Hey Diane, when are those dates again"?  


Regardless of what may or may not happen with Mercury Retrograde, keep your thoughts positive and enjoy your Spring.  


~ diane fergurson




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Monday, January 3, 2011

Our Unique, Yet Charming Zodiac Sign Flaws

In the February issue of Dell Horoscope Magazine there is a delightful article, "The Charming Character Flaws of the Signs" by Brian Clark that examines the character flaws associated with each Zodiac sign.  Clark explains in a humorous yet informative way, that it's all these little flaws and characteristics that combine to make us all unique and interesting individuals.

Probably one of the amusing aspects of the article is that before Clark describes each sign he prefaces it with a little Astrological quote by the 17th century essayist Joseph Addison.  As he points out in the article, it's interesting that even back in the day, our ancestors were fascinated by the zodiacal quirks of character! 

I thought I would share Addison's quotes with you.  If you get a chance, read the article.  It's great.  A lot of good wisdom and information.

~ diane


 Aries
Who works from morn to set of Sun,
And never likes to be outdone?
Whose walk is almost a run?
Who?  Aries.

Taurus
Who smiles through life-
except when crossed?
Who knows, or thinks he knows. the most?
Who loves good things:  baked,
boiled, or roast?
Oh, Taurus


Gemini
Who's fond of life and jest and pleasure:
Who vacillates and changes ever?
Who loves attention without measure?
Why, Gemini

Cancer
Who changes like a changeable season:
Holds fast and lets go without reason?
Who is there can give adhesion
To Cancer?


Leo
Who praises all his kindred do:
Expects his friends to praise them too-
And cannon see their senseless view?
Ah, Leo.

Virgo
Who Criticizes all she sees:
Yes, e'en would analyze a sneeze?
Who hugs and loves her own disease?
Humpf, Virgo.


Libra
Who puts you all off with promise gay,
And keeps you waiting half the day?
Who compromises all the way?
Sweet Libra.

Scorpio
Who keeps an arrow in his bow,
And if you prod, he lets go?
A fervent friend, a subtle foe-
Scorpio
 
Sagittarius
Who loves the dim religious light:
Who always keeps a star in sight?
An optimist both gay and bright-
Sagittarius


Capricorn
Who climbs and schemes
for wealth and place,
And mourns his brother's
fall from grace-
But takes what due in any case-
Safe Capricorn


Aquarius
Who gives to all a helping hand,
But bows his head to no command-
And higher laws doth understand?
Investor, Genius, Superman-
Aquarius

Pisces
Who prays and serves, and prays and
serves some more;
And feeds the beggar at the door-
And weeps o'er love lost long before?
Poor Pisces

~

16th Century Zodiac Woodcut - Wikipedia



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Sunday, December 19, 2010

Winter Solstice: A Time for Light, Release and Transformation


There is a striking thread that runs through many of the winter holidays, whether celebrated in Jewish, Christian, pagan, or other traditions – that of light, the return of light, and an embrace of light, both within and without. The Winter Solstice is a major holiday for pagans, but can be enjoyed by anyone without stepping on the toes of other faiths. It is the shortest day of the year, the day when the sun shines the least – in ancient times it was literally called “sun standing still day.” After the solstice the days begin to get longer, our time under the sun increasing little by little.

Even if we don’t see a reason to celebrate this as a religious or spiritual event we can see how it might have significance psychologically. For a good example of our reliance on light, I need only look back a couple of weeks to when a big windstorm knocked out power for thousands of people in my area – including me and my family. Reading by candlelight had a certain homey appeal, but there was an awkwardness to brushing teeth or simply walking up the steep narrow stairs in the old farmhouse, by candle. Schedules and routines change – bedtimes tend to be earlier, the dark greeted differently when we have no control over it. If we can be so affected by a diminishment of light, imagine the ancients, who truly set their lives by the light of the sun.

Perhaps of greater meaning to us now is the symbolism of light, especially in a season of growing darkness. I believe many of us are in great need of this renewing return of light – enough events have been taking place in our culture that have thrown some of us into the dark. The loss of a job and one’s income, family members in the military or simply news of war, ugly politics and the threat of individual rights narrowing, personal anxieties and fears… Concurrent with days growing ever shorter (not to mention an increase in cold temps, keeping us indoors even more), our moods may be suffering. Through holidays such as Hanukkah, Christmas, and the pagan Yule, we have the invitation to accept and celebrate this return of light, and on the solstice we see the literal return of that light.

Also occurring on the solstice this year, will be a full lunar eclipse. In itself this is a relatively rare event, and one that astronomers are taking note of. Astrologers are also taking note of it, because the belief is that eclipses and solstices affect change… taking place as they will together, this combined event is expected to bring even bigger changes, on social as well as individual levels.
Major shifts are possible (some would say likely), and the general advice is to approach the day of this solstice with an openness to good things and joy, and from a place of acceptance and calm. If transformation is going to take place, embrace it and make it what you would like it to be – or at least to the extent that you can.

I am still a little on the fence about what I believe with regard to astrology. I tend to think who we are and become is not so governed by where the planets were when we were born, but I find myself making simple assumptions based on astrology more often than I’d like and have recognized some uncanny truths when doing deeper reading into it. I do find it exciting to think that a full moon eclipse on a winter solstice might usher in big change, new direction, and inner transformation, while also helping us release old fears or habits; hopefully all good of course! Experts are saying to check your natal charts for planets that fall between 27 and 1 degree in any sign, for those areas will be affected. I plan on going home tonight and pulling out my chart, to see just which houses might start experiencing some influence on Tuesday. I am just slightly nervous, knowing I have quite a few that fall in those degrees. I will also probably emphasize a practice of mindfulness on Tuesday, and perhaps do some simple meditation on opening to more love, joy, and yes, light.

~ nellie levine

photo, "Through Frosted Glass" is by Jude McConkey.  It's available in her Etsy Shop.

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Sunday, December 5, 2010

Mercury Retrograde, For Your Holiday Pleasure

Well, it looks like Mercury Retrograde will be gracing us with it's presence during the Holiday Season this year, December 10-30th 2010.  (November 24 to December 13, 2011.)

What is this astrological transit that always makes me glance over my shoulder and take an extra breath of patience (or just give up) when things aren't going my way? Read on and find out.

2011
March 30 to April 23
August 2 to August 26
November 24 to December 13


2012
March 11 to April 4
July 14 to August7
November 6 to November 26

2013

February 23 to March 17
June 26 to July 20
October 21 to November 10

2014

February 6 to February 28
June 7 to June 30
October 4 to October 25
  ~~~~~~

There are numerous astrological aspects which transit our chart every day, every year. Mercury going retrograde however, is one that has always caused my antenna to rise a little higher and pay a bit closer attention to the situations going on around me.
I grew up with a mother who was a student of astrology. Every time this aspect would approach she would begin her lengthy mantra warning me against signing important documents, beginning anything new, engaging in transactions, and of course...travel plans. Although she is in her mid 80's now, I fully expect a letter AND phone call this week reminding me about the transit. It's something she has obviously learned, by experience, to take seriously.
Perusing through my astrology books to prepare for this blog post, I came across a good description of Mercury retrograde by James R. Lewis in his book The Astrology Encyclopedia Here are some excerpts:
“Retrograde refers to the apparent backward motion of a planet in its orbit. Because all planets in the solar system are moving in orbits of different sizes at different rates of speed, there will be periods in the orbit of the Earth when each of the other planets seems to reverse direction for a period of time. The effect can be compared with that of a jet as it passes a slower-moving airplane that is flying in the same direction at a lower altitude: As the pass is made, the slower craft appears – particularly when viewed against the backdrop of the Earth – to be moving in the opposite direction. Similarly, retrograde planets appear to move in reverse direction when viewed against the backdrop of the fixed stars.”
Lewis continues: “Astrologers tend to pay particularly close attention to the retrograde periods of Mercury, ruler of the Mind, communications, travel, and related matters. The period of Mercury’s retrogradation may be considered fortunate for introverted activities like reflection and meditation but it is considered unfortunate for traveling and making important decisions (e.g., signing contracts). Travel is sometimes delayed while Mercury is retrograde, and decisions made during such periods are often reversed after Mercury goes direct.”

~ diane fergurson
About the image... This illustration of Mercury is originally from De Sphaera, an illuminated astrology manuscript from the Italian Renaissance.

Thursday, December 31, 2009

Vedic Astrology 101


(As the South node was transiting over the natal in my fifth house, I wondered how it would play out. The South node or Ketu as it is called in Vedic astrology, is considered a spiritual planet that pushes people into delving the inner meaning of things. Ten years ago during the planetary cycle of Ketu I wrote my dissertation on Hindu spirituality in the U.S., and when Diane asked me to write a piece about Vedic astrology, I thought how appropriate. It was meant to be. That is the beauty of Vedic astrology. It enables us to see events that are likely to occur. But, first things first.)
Karma and Rebirth: The foundation of Vedic astrology or Jyotish rests on Hindu beliefs about karma and rebirth. The planetary alignment at the time of your birth is a reflection of the karmas that you bring from your previous birth. This beginning karma determines where you are born, who your parents are, your siblings, your childhood and the general contours of your life in this birth. So much of all these is predetermined. Does that mean you are no more than your chart? No—Hinduism and Vedic astrology fully provide for free will within the framework of what is already determined. In fact, if there was no free will, how can we escape the endless cycle of birth and rebirth? Our understanding of the planets in our chart enables us to accept what cannot be changed, change what can be changed towards the ultimate goal of moksha. Inter-connectedness of destinies: Because Hindu culture is very family-oriented with a strong emphasis on dharma (duty), inter-connectedness of destinies is a key element of Vedic astrology. Thus, your chart is not just about you; it is also about your parents, your siblings, spouse, children, even co-workers. An event which is visible in a child’s chart can also be seen in the charts of the parents as well as siblings. People who come in closer contact in mutual relationships or business partnerships will show striking similarities in their charts at appropriate periods. Often, siblings in a family will have common planetary indications relating to the parents. For example, both my son-in-law and his sister have Sun in a dual sign in their charts. Sun in a dual sign can mean multiple marriages for father, which is correct in this instance.
Vedic astrology is considered a divine science. The knowledge contained is said to have been revealed to the ancient sages and is part of the vedic sacred texts. The principal text is called the Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra and its authorship is attributed to sage Parashara. It is considered a science because like science, astrological knowledge is ascertained by observation and experiment, critically tested, systemized and brought under general principles. While grounded in ancient texts, practitioners constantly add new and radical interpretations. For example, not till long ago planets in the 12th house was dreaded since it meant loss, isolation, death etc. but now it is viewed more positively because they are seen as indications of foreign travel and settlement. Now everybody wants them!
How is Vedic Astrology different from Western Astrology? Jyotish is based on the Sidereal Zodiac as opposed to the Vernal Zodiac of Western Astrology. Vedic/Sidereal Astrology uses the fixed observable stars in the sky whereas Western Astrology is more time based, determining the beginning of the zodiac as corresponding to the start of the Vernal Equinox. In the year 2006, the difference between the two systems is considered to be between 22 and 24 degrees and indicates the difference between the point of the Vernal Equinox and the first point of the constellation Aries. Thus, the tropical sign of Aries corresponds to the fixed stars of Pisces. Which means that in your Jyotish chart, the Sun will be located one sign behind one in your western chart. For example, I was born on July 29 and hence my western sun sign is Leo. However, in vedic chart, it is Cancer. If you want to determine your vedic sun sign, move one sign backwards counter clockwise. Leo---?Cancer----?Gemini and so on.
Because of the use of sidereal zodiac, the Sun is not given as much prominence in Jyotish. The Moon is far more important. The Moon represents the mind which is seen as the agency of perception and, consequently, is a major determining factor in how one interacts with the world. The house placement of Moon in one’s chart indicates where a person will play out her karma.
Jyotish also does not use outer planets such as Neptune, Plato and Uranus. It uses nine planets from Sun to Saturn and the north and the south nodes called Rahu and Ketu respectively.
The most distinctive feature of Jyotish is its ability to predict events in one’s life. The Dasa System (the planetary cycles) is a unique feature used in Jyotish which indicates a period during which a planet’s influence becomes fully operative. This enables one to give precise predictions during a particular period. Questions like “When will I get married” or “when will I have a promotion in my job” are possible to ask a vedic astrologer and a good astrologer should be able to time those events to the exact date.
Another system of delineation in Vedic Astrology is planetary aspects called yogas. This is a unique system for understanding the power of the associations between the planets in their placement from one another. When the planets form yogas, they create specific results which are powerful.
to be continued....

*Thanks to Indira Govindan for sharing her vast knowledge on Vedic Astrology with us. Her shop DharmaKarmaArts can be found on Etsy.

Related posts:
Mudras:  Gestures of a Different Kind

Mercury Goes Retrograde


There are numerous astrological aspects which transit our chart every day, every year. Mercury going retrograde however, is one that has always caused my antenna to rise a little higher and pay a bit closer attention to the situations going on around me.
I grew up with a mother who was a student of astrology. Every time this aspect would approach she would begin her lengthy mantra warning me against signing important documents, beginning anything new, engaging in transactions, and of course...travel plans. Although she is in her mid 80's now, I fully expect a letter AND phone call this week reminding me about the transit. It's something she has obviously learned, by experience, to take seriously.
Perusing through my astrology books to prepare for this blog post, I came across a good description of Mercury retrograde by James R Lewis in his book The Astrology Encyclopedia Here are some excerpts:
“Retrograde refers to the apparent backward motion of a planet in its orbit. Because all planets in the solar system are moving in orbits of different sizes at different rates of speed, there will be periods in the orbit of the Earth when each of the other planets seems to reverse direction for a period of time. The effect can be compared with that of a jet as it passes a slower-moving airplane that is flying in the same direction at a lower altitude: As the pass is made, the slower craft appears – particularly when viewed against the backdrop of the Earth – to be moving in the opposite direction. Similarly, retrograde planets appear to move in reverse direction when viewed against the backdrop of the fixed stars.”
Lewis continues: “Astrologers tend to pay particularly close attention to the retrograde periods of Mercury, ruler of the Mind, communications, travel, and related matters. The period of Mercury’s retrogradation may be considered fortunate for introverted activities like reflection and meditation but it is considered unfortunate for traveling and making important decisions (e.g., signing contracts). Travel is sometimes delayed while Mercury is retrograde, and decisions made during such periods are often reversed after Mercury goes direct.”
updated:

Mercury Retrograde 2012

March 11/12 to April 4
July 14 to August 7
November 6 to November 26

2013

February 23 to March 17
June 26 to July 20
October 21 to November 10

2014

February 6 to February 28
June 7 to June 30
October 4 to October 25

2015

January 21 to February 11
May 18 to June 11
September 17 to October 9
About the image... This illustration of Mercury is originally from De Sphaera, an illuminated astrology manuscript from the Italian Renaissance.
~ Diane

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Vedic Astrology 101
The Ancestral Path Tarot Deck

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