Elizabeth longed for something magical to come into her life to help ease the pain of her past memories and to give hope for the future. In her intense search, she was living a life full of expectation hoping tomorrow would be better than all the bad yesterdays. Meanwhile the present became increasingly busy, with pressing demands, obligations and responsibilities. This state of mind is reflected by a busy network of lines in Elizabeth’s hands, denoting an overwhelming feeling that her life was out of control.

Elizabeth felt overwhelmed and alone as a single mother taking care of three children. In her consultation, she was hoping for a magic remedy that could ease some of her stress. I explained to her that her mind was overly occupied, as confirmed by the many crisscrossing lines in her handprints. I promised that we would work together to achieve greater peace of mind, eliminating one line at a time.

She realized her past habit was to try and escape reality by seeking solace in relationships. However as she got involved too quickly, each relationship only ended up adding further disappointment and hurt.  She realized she was depending on her relationships to make her happy, putting aside her need to discover herself and her own self-expression. In her before handprint, in addition to too many lines, there is a faint destiny line showing she is distracted from fully realizing and embracing her life purpose.

After working together for several months, she began to take charge of her life, keeping a specific goal in mind. Rather than dwell on the past or future, she concentrated on being present each moment, enjoying her role both as a mother and as a professional. The satisfaction she began to experience replaced her fears, frustrations and anxieties. She is now feeling more focused, disciplined and structured towards fulfilling her dreams. We can see in the ‘After’ handprint, her destiny line has become stronger. The saying of a great Himalayan yogi, Babaji, really resonated with her, “Banat, Banat, Ban Jai” which translates as “By doing and doing, it is done.” She is really enthusiastic to see the changes in herself one line at the time.  

In my personal coaching, I concentrate on specific areas that my clients would like to work on. I explain to them, however, that what may have taken many years to develop as a negative habit or self-defeating pattern needs time and commitment to bring about change.

Whatever issue you would like to focus on, whether professional or personal, such as building confidence, developing charisma, or attracting love – I would be more than happy to work with you and to see the successful changes in your life, confirmed by the changing patterns in your hands.

For more information about our palmistry programs or to arrange an appointment with me in person or through our Remote Consultation Service, check our website at www.birlacenter.com or call us at 866.428.3799.

As we mentioned in last month’s column, of all the celestial bodies, Jyotish places most emphasis on the Moon, as it takes 28 days (more precisely 27 days, 7 hours 43 minutes) to revolve around the Earth, consequently making us more susceptible to its influence. The Moon, in its orbit around the Earth each month, passes through each of the 12 signs of the zodiac affecting specific areas of our life. The Moon stays in one sign a bit more than two days.

The Moon relates to our innermost feelings and perceptions. In some signs, it motivates us to be more outgoing while in others it necessitates us to be more reflective. This article will introduce a sampling of the diverse influences one can expect as the Moon passes through each sign during the month.

Moon in Pisces, May 15th to 17th

The Moon is now in the emotional water sign, Pisces. This gentle Moon brings with it an openness of mind that is filtered through our sentiments and feelings. This is a positive placement for the Moon, suggesting a sensitive, subtle mind. We are more than likely to be in touch with our feelings and can have an easy, flowing manner of self-expression. We may need to watch, however, that we maintain a balance between our emotions and logic, as we can have a tendency to make emotional decisions. As Rahu and Mars are both aspecting the Moon at this time, the vulnerable, yin Moon may be up for a bit of a tussle. Mars, the warrior planet, can work in one of two ways – it can prompt the Moon, our mind and feelings, to initiate ideas and plans, moving them from thought (Moon) into action (Mars). In contrast, however, as a result of its assertive nature, Mars can inflame our emotions, ones that are already susceptible to being influenced. As a result, we may make hasty, emotional decisions, rather than thinking them out. Rahu, casting its strategic weight upon the Moon, can create some inner confusion and doubt – impairing our intuition.
Over the next few days, then, see to what extent you are experiencing feelings that are intuitively governed or ones that are simply emotion based, provoked as a result of Mars and Rahu. Think of this time, then, as providing the opportunity to do an “emotional stability evaluation”, and to see if you are mostly acting or reacting.

Moon in Aries, May 17th to 20th

The Moon has now moved from the gentle, emotional sign of Pisces to the fiery and actively engaged mind of Aries. Our emotions are ruled by Mars, and we want to get things done. We need to guard, however, against doing things impulsively. Intensifying the fiery temperament of this Moon, Mercury is now aspecting it, electrifying the atmosphere with its own brand of eccentricity.
Saturn is also in aspect to the Moon, and although it can be restrictive in a practical, pragmatic, matter of fact manner, in this scenario it may help create a balance between thought and action. Saturn’s nature is to put a pause on things, and to coordinate and temper other more unruly planetary energies by introducing common sense. Accordingly, with any transactions, contracts or plans that you may be anticipating, Saturn will urge us to “dot the I’s and cross the T’s”, saving yourself from experiencing potential headaches in the future.

Moon in Taurus, May 20th to 22nd

The Moon is now in Taurus, its most favorable placement. Taurus relates to the element earth, whereas the Moon is associated with water. The spontaneous, creative aspect of the mind in this sign is focused and given free rein to flow unhindered, interfered for example through subjective or negative emotions. Think of a riverbed (Taurus – earth element) that provides a channel through which a river (Moon – water element) can effortlessly flow. This Moon placement, then, whether in transit or in a natal chart, indicates a time of creativity whereby we can work more effectively to materialize our thoughts and plans.
Having Ketu aspecting the Moon at this time, however, can create a challenge; we need to stay focused, and not let our thoughts overflow the river banks, flooding our mind with doubts that can deviate us from our original goals. For example, we can get sidetracked, feeling compelled to go after some unfulfilled desire. Ketu has a knack of bringing up old, past issues that can cloud our vision for the present. So keep your priorities in line and don’t get distracted.  

Moon in Gemini, May 22nd to 25th

Those with a Moon in Gemini are full of ideas and with a desire to communicate them with others, regardless the mode of communication. It is fitting that Gemini, ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication and self-expression, is an air sign. Think of various forms of telecommunication, including simple speech that is made possible as sound vibration requires air for its transmission. In its purest forms, thought and telepathy are some of the most refined examples of our Mercurian potential. Here, as opposed to air, these rely on the ether, the element associated with Mercury.
Now that the Moon is in this Mercurial sign, we may feel more artistic or creative in our activities. There can be an aura of effervescence in the air where we may feel more animated and inclined to speak with others and to share our ideas. Keep in mind that as Gemini is a mutable sign – adaptable and open to new concepts – we need to stay focused, and to seriously look at which of our many ideas is doable.
Venus is aspecting the Moon during this short transit. We need to stick with our original creative plans, as Venus sitting in close proximity to the Moon may “seduce” us into taking it easier. This attitude may simply undermine and delay our creative efforts. So put your nose to the grindstone, do what you need to do, and then enjoy yourself. It’s just a matter of putting the horse and the cart in their proper place.

Moon in Cancer, May 25th to 27th

The Moon is now happily situated in its own sign, Cancer, associated with sensitivity, heightened awareness and intuition. This transit can arouse our emotional, feeling side. Often we may find that we need to tuck this gentler, more tender aspect of our nature out of sight perhaps simply out of self-preservation in order to function in typically stressful life situations. This emotional management may be more evident during this short transit, as Saturn is aspecting the Moon; our emotional and creative spontaneity may feel somewhat restricted. Moreover, Rahu is also influencing the Moon; we may feel constrained to behave according to some inner drive based on some subjective strategy of Rahu in Scorpio which can cause some agitation.
As a great saint once said, “A wise man rules his planets”. Taking all of the above into account, the Moon in Cancer can be a time whereby we overrule any restrictions we may be feeling, recognizing the importance of counterbalancing our more practical logical “life is tough, front lines” mentality, with our deeper, inherently intuitive, sensitive and loving soul nature. Life will always present us with challenging situations; however, it is up to us to not lose our heart and to stay open and creative with the inner satisfaction that we have found balance in an often whirlwind existence.

Moon in Leo, May 27th to 29th

The Moon is now in the fiery sign, Leo. Our thinking and emotions now turn from the yin feeling nature of Cancer to those that are yang in nature; we are enthusiastic and motivated with a strong desire to manifest our ideas into some form of constructive reality. We can easily express our feelings outwardly which can have a positive, contagious effect on those around us.
Mars in Leo is conjunct the Moon. Although this aspect can feel a bit too close for comfort, as Mars can be somewhat pushy, yet it can also be a motivating, propelling force to activate further the Moon’s fiery, passionate temperament. That being said, you may really feel like expressing yourself in very certain terms. Just be careful that you don’t overdo it, as both Mars and Moon are intense in this fiery sign.
A hand-written love letter may end up with friction burns just from the speed and passionate intensity of your pen on the paper. Email is probably the way to go, just don’t fry your keyboard in your sizzling enthusiasm to express your feelings.

Moon in Virgo, May 29th to 31st

The Moon, now in Virgo, is ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication. Here again, as the Moon in Gemini, we have many ideas and concepts. Yet Virgo, being an earth sign, we are “down to earth”, pragmatic and practical in how we communicate both our thoughts and our feelings. In our desire to be analytical, detail oriented and organized, we need to guard against being overly critical.
Ketu and Jupiter are both aspecting the Moon, five houses away from their placement in Taurus. As there are often multiple aspects on the Moon from various planets, their combined influence will have interesting and at times complex effects. Ketu’s influence is to provoke us into action, often based on previously engaged past life activity – some of which we may not have been entirely satisfied with. We need to maintain our discrimination and to guard against impetuous, knee jerk urges to act in ways that are not appropriate to our present day situation.
Jupiter in this combination of aspecting planets provides guidance so that we can remain more objective and less reactive. In addition to the planets aspecting the Moon is the unusual stellium (grouping of planets) sitting with Jupiter and Ketu in Taurus, a feature of the chart not yet discussed. There are five planets in total. Whenever there is such a large collection of planets sitting in one house, the imbalance created will have a significant influence depending on which house in the chart they are sitting. Of course, our ascendant, or first house, will determine in which one of the twelve houses these planets will be placed. Knowing this, we can anticipate what we may experience, in addition to the above indications, during this lunar transit.  

Moon in Libra, May 31st to June 2nd

The Moon is now in Libra, an air sign ruled by Venus. This placement indicates that we can focus on the areas of life that provide comfort. We want to be free to dream and to let our imagination soar without restriction. We don’t want any boundaries to limit this free-wheeling aspect of our creative imagination. Unbounded thinking, however, can have its downside; we can be unpredictable if we get lost in an imaginary mental maze of our own creation.
Saturn is aspecting the Moon at this time. As a result, we may feel somewhat restricted, the “nose to the grindstone” nature of Saturn, being in stark contrast to the unrestrained desires of this Moon. Consequently, there can be a conflict whereby we may be a bit confused, claustrophobic or confined in our consciousness. For example, we may feel that our creative dreams have somehow been derailed. This is, however, Saturn’s way of stopping us in our tracks, enabling us to really see if our plans and ideas are simply castles in the sky or feasible in our power to actualize.
During this short transit, we can take a pause, run our ideas through others, and then follow through with whatever creative ideas (Moon) we have planned based on a solid practical strategy (Saturn) for its successful completion.

Moon in Scorpio, June 2nd to 4th

The Moon in Scorpio, like Cancer and Pisces, is in a water sign, the element indicating our emotions, feelings and perceptions. In addition, this Moon is ruled by Mars, a fiery, yang, and intense force. Together, this combination can be quite formidable; we think and feel deeply and passionately. One drawback, however, is that as a result of Scorpio’s inherent silent and secretive nature, we can become overly cautious, and perhaps distrusting and suspicious. In our “holding the cards close to the chest”, we may deny others access to us; we may not be willing to listen to advice; rather, we like to do things in our manner.
To spice up the pot, there are 5 planets in Taurus – Jupiter, Ketu, Sun, Venus and Mercury –aspecting the Moon from 180 away (an opposition). And, for good measure, a 6th planet is also aspecting the Moon, as Mars is in Leo. The technical term for the potentially disruptive effects of this planetary combination is “mayhem”. Actually not, but you get the idea. For example, geologically there can be more flooding and mudslides. Emotionally, there can be much tension and rash, impassioned behavior.
So we will all need to take a collective breath, count to 10 or even better 10,000 to help us stay calm longer, so that we don’t make any impetuous decisions that we could easily regret in the future.

Moon in Sagittarius, June 4th to 6th  

The Moon has now moved into Sagittarius, a friendly placement ruled by noble Jupiter, and away from the “mayhem” of the last few days. Perhaps, if through our collective unconscious wisdom has prevailed, we are no worse off than before. By the time the Moon has gone into Sagittarius, we will know just how wise we have all been.
Now it’s time for a bit of fresh air; we can come out of ourselves and look to the future with a sense of optimism and enthusiasm with an explorative frame of mind.
Moreover, Mercury is aspecting the Moon from its well-placed and friendly position in the communicative and exuberant sign, Gemini. There is a greater chance that, for example, if détente is needed, it can now be more easily achieved. We have the desire to express ourselves peacefully and with diplomacy as Jupiter, the ruling planet of the Moon in Sagittarius can make us more tactful.
Finally Saturn, still in exalted placement in Libra, urges us to maintain a wise and discriminating outlook with those around us. In all, this short transit heralds a time to move forward with optimism and healthier communication.  

Moon in Capricorn, June 6th to 9th

The Moon is now in Capricorn, a sign ruled by Saturn. Over the next few days, we may withdraw a little, somewhat in contrast to the at times overly enthusiastic, exuberant influence of a Sagittarian Moon. We may be a bit more introspective and prudent, as our mind and feelings have a tendency to be filtered through the Saturnian attributes of caution, discipline and strategy. Consequently, a circumspect, “let’s wait and see” disposition may predominate now; we want to see if something concrete will come out of whatever activity we have been doing.
Jupiter is also aspecting the Moon, adding a healthy dose of enthusiasm and ambition to move things forward, as well as adding a livelier flavor to the days ahead.

Moon in Aquarius, June 9th to 11th

In addition to Capricorn, Saturn – the planet of discipline, focus, and strategy – also rules the Moon in Aquarius. And although Saturn is considered a first-rate malefic, ultimately, when we do the work associated with this planet, we create greater structure in our lives. We become more serious and profound, embracing far-reaching objectives. We recognize the importance of our thoughts and actions, and their consequences on others and ourselves.
Accordingly, the thoughts and feelings of those with the Moon in Aquarius partake of these Saturnian qualities. We are visionary and humanitarian. During this short transit, then, we have the potential to lighten up a bit from the more cautious, practical and down to earth nature of the previously experienced Capricorn Moon. Aquarius is an air sign, enabling greater movement, freeing us up to widen our vision and not to get caught up in any one frame of mind.
During this transit, Mars is aspecting the Moon. Mars is an outgoing, forceful, and fast-moving energy coming up against the more introspective, interiorized, and slow-moving energy of Saturn (Aquarius). This can cause some upsets, as these two energies are in contrast to each other. Be careful that you don’t become too self-willed, stubborn, and agitated, holding on to a point of view – one that at any other time could be discussed more agreeably. If you have to agree to disagree, go ahead; there will always be another more peaceful day to come to an agreement.

In summary, by being aware of the Moon’s transits throughout the month, you can familiarize yourself with your innermost feelings and responses. If you would like to learn more about the effects of the Moon, especially how it is affecting the particular house it is transiting in your astrological chart, I would be more than happy to share my insights with you.

Moreover, as astrology can be defined as our response to planetary influences, being a spark of the Infinite, we have the free will to overcome or at least minimize any negative influences. Consequently, through an analysis of your astrological chart, preventive measures can be suggested to help you achieve this end.

Next month, we will look at the effects of the Moon’s position from June 11th to July 9th, 2012.

Moon Position throughout the Signs

The timetable below indicates when the Moon enters each of the 12 signs throughout the month.

Last month, I introduced you to the eight limbs or steps for living a better life through the philosophy and discipline of yoga. This month, we will take an in-depth look at the first of those steps referred to as Yama.
 
Yama is a Sanskrit word which literally means "death". In Vedic mythology, Yama is the god of death. In a sense Yama can be seen as the death of our lower self so that we can attune ourselves and embrace a higher self. Consequently Yama relates to a code of conduct which enables us to transcend our ego and become friends with our spirit.
 
Yama is often seen in combination with the 2nd step, Niyama. Yama and Niyama are referred to as the do’s and don’ts. The yamas (restraints, the don’ts) relate to the correct mode of conduct in the external world denoting how we treat others and the world around us. The Niyamas (the observances, the do’s) comprise the correct mode of conduct related to our inner development. In today’s article I will focus on the Yamas.

While Patanjali, considered by many the Father of Yoga, lists five yamas in his Yoga Sutras, the Hatha Yoga Pradipika lists ten traditional yamas which I felt you might like to be aware of:

1. Ahimsa translates as nonviolence. With ahimsa we refrain from causing pain to any living creature in thought, word, or deed at any time including ourself. In his book, The Divine Romance, Paramahansa Yogananda says, “When there is a fight, at least two parties are involved. So there can be no fight with you if you refuse to participate.” The principle of Ahimsa also applies in a more subtle way that we are also responsible not to injure or kill any positive quality of anyone (including ourselves) for example, happiness or enthusiasm. While it is more rare to actually kill, it is common to hurt others with unkind words or unfriendly glances. As what goes around, comes around we end up only hurting ourselves more. This is preventable! The goal of yoga is to realize oneness with all life.

2.    Satya translates as truthfulness. Satya includes being truthful not only in our communication with others but in our thoughts that are inaudible to most ears. Patanjali gives us a test by which we can tell whether we have achieved perfection in this virtue. He said that by our thought or word we are able to attain what we are wishing for without even acting. For example, a saint can heal others by simply saying to them with deep concentration, “Be well”. Satya also plays a role to help us go beyond the physical senses to perceive the truth that we are more than a physical body. In deep contemplation we can pursue the question, “Who am I, really?” “Who is the real me?” Truthfulness also necessitates that we go beyond likes and dislikes in order to remain objective. Satya also helps us be true to ourselves by being able to perceive things as they are and being open to the idea of listening to others’ opinions even if we have a huge stake in holding onto our own ideas.
 
3.    Asteya translates as non-stealing. Asteya relates to stealing both on a tangible and intangible level. For example, on a tangible level, we can rob a physical object like a car and, on an intangible level, we can rob a quality from someone for example, their happiness or confidence. It also relates to covetousness. As Kriyananada, author of The Path explains, “asteya means not desiring even that which is ours by right, in the realization that whatever is rightfully ours will surely come to us anyway, but that our happiness is not conditioned by whether we get it or not. Desire only keeps us looking to the future for fulfillment, instead of realizing that perfection is ours already.” He goes on to say, “Why feel that we need anything in the universe, when in truth we are the universe. Covetousness is like a rope that ties the balloon of consciousness to the ground, preventing it from soaring. Covetousness is not limited to material objects. We can in the words of Sri Yukteswar, author of The Holy Science, Chop off others people’s heads to appear taller ourselves. When we speak unkindly to another or talk negatively about another, we are claiming an exclusive virtue for ourself. ”
 
4. Brahmacharya translates as exercising self-control (not repression), especially sexually. Many yogis of old were married and had families of their own. The person who practices brahmacharya avoids meaningless sexual encounters and, as Paramahansa Yogananda says, in his book, The Divine Romance, “If you develop the perfect love of your soul, you will begin to get a glimpse of the Divine in all.” Often when the pressure of desire builds up within us, we feel the need to ‘let off steam’. We do not realize that this inner energy is not something to be got rid of, but that we need more of in order to maintain our peace and concentration which can easily be disrupted by physical and emotional tension causing disharmony. It is not repression when we transmute our energy and direct it upward toward the brain. Energy so directed can give us tremendous powers of accomplishment on all levels of life. Kriyananda says, “When there is the consent of the will there is not repression but transmutation. We should try not to waste our energy in physical or mental tension or in restless thoughts and movements.”
 
5. Kshama refers to patience. Kshama denotes our ability to release our mind from the constraints of time allowing us to be fully conscious and functioning in the present moment. Feelings of boredom, anxiety, and restlessness cannot exist when we are fully immersed, focussed, and loving what we are doing. Ghanshyam Singh Birla, the director of the Birla Center, in his book, Introduction to Hast Jyotish, addresses this issue on p. 9 saying, “we are all familiar with the sense of being in the moment where we are no longer aware of the limitations of time and space. Four hours fly by for the child at the zoo, while for his guardian, who would rather be golfing, it seems like an eternity. A professional skater may take a prize for his breathtaking performance, unaware that his ankle is broken. Absorbed by her class, a professor doesn’t realize that two hours have gone by. However, when we do something that has little meaning for us—for example, doing our tax returns when we would prefer to be at the movies with our friends—our hearts and minds are not really engaged. Time seems disproportionately long, and we can feel trapped in the moment.”

6. Dhriti refers to steadfastness. With dhriti we are able to persevere until our goal is achieved. We are able to see each task through to completion without allowing any fear or indecision to get in our way.

7. Daya translates as compassion. With Daya we are able to overcome any callous, cruel and insensitive feelings toward all beings.

8.  Arjava translates as honesty. With the practice of arjava we become straightforward, having no inclination to deceive or fool anyone or harbor any personal agenda.
 
9. Mitahara translates as moderate appetite. With mitahara we neither eat too much nor too little. In some yoga texts it encourages that we abstain from consuming anything with a face on it or born from something with a face on it such as beef, chicken or eggs.

10. Shaucha translates as purity. With shaucha we strive to avoid anything which can result in polluting our body, mind and speech.

Hope you enjoyed hearing about the don’ts. Next month, we will have an in-depth look at the do’s – the 10 Niyamas – the guidelines outlined by the sages for our inner spiritual self-realization.
 
In the meantime, I would like to let you know that every Monday evening I will be giving a yoga class and for anyone who is unable to attend, please book a session at our toll-free number 866.428.3799 or online at www.birlacenter.com. During our time together, I will be happy to develop a routine for you. Also I am available for massage, palmistry consultations and classes. Until next month, looking forward to hearing from you.

Jupiter is considered a benefic planet and for the most part - depending on sign and house placement - has a positive, uplifting influence. Qualities such as innovation, ambition, leadership, nobility, and a justice seeking temperament are a few attributes associated with this giant, expansive planet.

Jupiter takes approximately 12 years to cycle through the 12 signs – staying in each one for about a year. As of May 11th, 2012 Jupiter will move to Taurus, the sign ruled by Venus, the planet of love, beauty, comfort and pleasure. Filtered through the fixed, earth element nature of Taurus, this Jupiter is also determined, practical and likes to get things accomplished. It can also relate, however, to an at times “do it my way” attitude. Jupiter will remain in this sign until May 24th, 2013.

Jupiter in Taurus, then, partakes of both the enthusiastic nature of Jupiter, empowered with the refinement of Venus to seek charm and beauty within and without. In this placement, Jupiter’s good-natured benevolent character is given the challenge to channel the powerful, yet pleasure-oriented aspect of Venus towards creating a dynamic and cooperative balance between thought and action – in this instance having virtuous ideals, and the ability to realize them.
In the following article, we will explore how and to what extent the practical and purposeful nature of transiting Jupiter in Taurus can have a positive influence in your daily affairs – specifically in a particular area of your life. This month, we will examine the first six ascendants, from Taurus, the sign Jupiter is transiting, to Libra.

Taurus Ascendant – Jupiter in the 1st House

Those with a Taurus ascendant are practical and down to earth. They have a love of beauty and enjoy the finer things in life that are pleasing and comforting. Jupiter in Taurus is now sitting on your ascendant or first house of personal expression. How we will express ourselves during this transit, however, will be determined in part by this placement. Jupiter, being in the same sign as your ascendant, indicates one who is practical, ambitious, purposeful, and with a vision to succeed. We need to watch out, however, that we remain “humble”, as issues revolving around pride can be a problem. Keep in mind the expression, “Pride goes before a fall”. In addition, this Jupiter can be experienced through the houses associated with it. For example, Pisces in your 11th house of gains, and Sagittarius in the 8th house of transformation and debts, are ruled by Jupiter. At this time, then, you can be motivated to achieve your goals and ambitions, as you may have a strong intention to gain.
Due to the dual rulership of Jupiter, you may also need to deal simultaneously with managing (as in paying off) your debts; or this may take the form of having to take care of some karmic obligation to someone else, an 8th house issue which, if not done enthusiastically, can at least be carried out with a positive attitude recognizing that our attitude is all important in making our dreams come true. You can see this as providing an opportunity to flex your spiritual muscles. Besides, taking care of 8th house affairs at this time can help lead to greater success in other areas of your life, such as the relationship you have with your children, perhaps the connection you have with your teachers, and within your loving relationships. Of course, it would be necessary to see your personalized natal chart as though this Jupiter transit plays a part in your evolution, it does not provide the entire picture.

Gemini Ascendant – Jupiter in the 12th House

Those with a Gemini ascendant, Gemini being a mutable sign, are flexible and adaptable. As an air sign, they are open to new ideas, many of which they are the first to introduce. Ruled by Mercury, they are intellectually inclined and have the gift of expression.
Jupiter in Taurus is now transiting your 12th house, traditionally associated with loss and expenses, yet also with freedom and liberation. It seems then that there is a choice to be made as to how you will experience this transit. Sagittarius and Pisces, the 2 signs associated with Jupiter, are placed in your 7th and 10th houses respectively. These are two great houses that provide positive support regardless the direction you take with the above-mentioned attributes of the transiting 12th house Jupiter in Taurus.
We have to keep in mind, however, that Jupiter in Taurus is not in its best placement, and though it indicates a realistic and sensible approach to life - we like to get things done - we may also project the challenging nature of this placement, whereby we can be doing things our own way. As pride is associated with ego, the antithesis to spirit, we need to watch that we do not let this challenging character trait override our better judgment and common sense. Accordingly, we have the great potential to experience the more liberating consciousness associated with the 12th house, rather than one of loss, as pride can take us far afield on a journey away from our true soul nature.

Cancer Ascendant – Jupiter in the 11th House

Having a Cancer ascendant, Jupiter in Taurus is transiting your 11th house of gains. Moon, the ruling sign of Cancer, and Jupiter are good friends (yes planets can be friends……and enemies) and so your potential to benefit is enhanced during this transit. Sagittarius and Pisces are placed in your 6th and 9th houses respectively. The 6th house can create some resistance in your movement towards accomplishing your goals, for example you may meet some opposition from someone or something that delays or obstructs your plans. Yet, your 9th house of good fortune has greater promise indicating success in your endeavors. This somewhat polarized situation demands that you see to it that your thoughts and behavior at this time bring about only the latter – success.
The influence of Jupiter in Taurus, not being in its most favorable placement, may test your good intentions, and if you are not attentive, you may find yourself nudged onto the wrong side of the fence. Moreover, Jupiter sitting in the 11th house can be viewed as “malefic” in the sense that we can become engrossed in expectation and wanting, so much so that we forget our inner search for wisdom and our quest for spiritual evolution. And as Venus rules Taurus, our desire for comfort and the good things in life may simply take precedence.
As a result of this potentially testing situation, you need to stick to your good intentions, keep up a sharing attitude, and do it with all humility and modesty – statistics show that these traits really improve the cooperation and trust of those around us – and be persistent, striking the iron “until it’s hot”, not “when it’s hot”. This transit may then prove to be a memorable chapter in your self-development and also one of contentment.

Leo ascendant – Jupiter in the 10th House

The Sun rules Leo. Therefore those with this ascendant are determined, dynamic, and magnanimous. The Sun also is friendly to Jupiter, adding to the potential for this planet to work well for you. Jupiter in Taurus is now transiting your 10th house of the public, karma, and your vocation. Jupiter here, then, indicates that you can express your creativity by putting your mind ambitiously to the task of doing something practical. In the extreme, and depending on other features in the natal chart, this placement can indicate doing something special to support mankind. Be careful, however, that you listen to what others have to offer, as you may, at times, have a somewhat undemocratic vision of how you want to do things. Try to recognize the value of others opinions, and humbly accept them, as this will enhance whatever you are doing at this time.
Sagittarius and Pisces, both ruled by Jupiter, are in your 5th and 8th houses – one positive and the other potentially challenging. The 5th house indicates that during this transit further study, education and creativity can all be areas of focus; specifically, the knowledge gained, increasing your skillset, can be applied effectively in your work place.
The 8th house, however, challenges you to remain peaceful and calm while pursuing your goals in the workplace, as you may experience shifts happening around you that, though necessary, can be emotionally taxing. Whatever transformation you experience at this time is for the good; so surrender to the higher forces at work as this will be to your advantage.

Virgo ascendant – Jupiter in the 9th House

Having a Virgo ascendant, ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication and personal expression, you have an organized mind that is detail-oriented and analytical. This ascendant alone is an indicator of success, as you are exacting, yet optimistic and sensitive. Moreover, as Virgo is an earth sign, your ideas and plans are grounded in practical reality.
Jupiter is now transiting your 9th house of good fortune, Sagittarius, in your 4th house indicating stability and the desire to create strong roots in life, and your 7th house, in part discovering who you are on a deeper subconscious level. These are positive influences supporting you in your endeavors.
This transit augurs well for attracting success, regardless how you define it. However, to facilitate the good that wants to come your way, you need to stay humble, and to help, support, and care for others. Maintaining this attitude, the doors of your success will open wider and faster. Be careful not to be too critical or demanding, as this can work against you at this time. Finally, make sure you use the right means to achieve your goals. With all these caveats in mind, go ahead and enjoy your success during this transit.  

Libra ascendant – Jupiter in the 8th House

Those with a Libra ascendant want to see harmony and balance in the world – sentiments truly noble and worthy of Venus, the ruling planet of this sign. Venus, however longing for equilibrium, needs to persist steadily towards making this a reality, starting first with your own life. The downside of Venus is that we can change our mind quickly, sometimes turning on a dime if it suits our immediate purpose or needs. We would do well to keep this in mind, as Jupiter is now transiting your 8th house of personal transformation and change. Moreover, Jupiter is associated with Sagittarius in your 3rd house, where we need to work hard to materialize our plans and dreams, and your 6th house where the universe throws speed bumps on our path to strengthen our resolve and convictions. All this being said, keep your focus, work hard, stay open-minded and loving and… have fun with what you are doing.

The Birla Center will be holding its next monthly meditation on Saturday, May 5th at its retreat center in Chénéville. Come and celebrate the full Moon in Libra. It is a very auspicious time to embark upon cultivating healing powers, intuition, and, above all, integration of body, mind and soul. Referred to as Guru Poornima in the Indian panchang (ephemeris), traditionally, this full moon provides the opportunity to connect with your teachers, gurus and “guardian angels” in order to seek their blessings. In turn, the students offer them their love, devotion and commitment, as a sign of loyalty, in the form of gifts to God to attract all-round prosperity. The practice of meditating on the full Moon brings fulfillment in all respects of our life.

We are holding a monthly meditation here at our center, provided to help support yours, as well as our continued spiritual growth. The progress you are likely to make during this upcoming year, ushered in part through the group meditation, will improve if you maintain your focus and dedication to meditate consistently throughout the coming months. Consequently, as we are living in tumultuous times, this would be a great time to initiate a spiritual meditation practice – if you haven’t done so already.

Mark this date in your calendar. These monthly meditations can become, a special, and memorable occasions to share some time with like-minded individuals, and to recharge your spiritual batteries, helping you instill greater peace of mind in the midst of a hectic life. You can return home, better equipped to face daily challenges in a more serene manner.

If you cannot take part in person at our center in Chénéville, you can still join us in meditation from the comfort of your home. Though not ideal, in terms of the benefits gained from participating in a group meditation, synchronizing your home meditation with that of ours here at the center provides a fellowship whereby we are all together on a similar spiritual quest.

Please note that our group meditations are free. To reserve your place and/or your room, call us toll free 866.428.3799.

Next Meditations at the Birla Center

Wednesday, June 20 - Summer’s Solstice
Sunday, July 22  -  Sun in Leo
Friday, August 31 -  Blue (full) Moon
Saturday, September 29 -  Harvest (full) Moon
Monday, October 29  - Full Moon
Wednesday, November 28 - Full moon and lunar eclipse
Friday, December 21 - Winter solstice and Christmas meditation