VEDIC ASTROLOGY

Cosmic Soul Journey

IMPORTANT DECEMBER TRANSITS

Please note that these astrological updates are based on the Sidereal system of Vedic Astrology that is Astronomically accurate.
This is the most ancient and complete form of Astrological Science and differs greatly from Western interpretations.

NEW MOON | 1.12.24

New Moon in Scorpio

In the Vedic Astrological sciences, the Moon represents the reflective, conditioned mind and is debilitated in Scorpio, which is the sign of mysticism, secrets, transcendence, alchemy and transformation, often bringing deep insights. New Moon energies last several days following the day and invites us inward to reflect upon our dreams and set intentions.

The Moon joins Mercury and the Sun in Scorpio and is aspected by Jupiter and Saturn. This combination has the potential to bring a lot to the surface that has been hidden. Collectively we may see information coming to light that has been hidden from the public, while personally we may find that we are remembering things from the past and from the subconscious layers of our mind.

In Vedic Astrology we also work with the Nakshatras ~ the 27 stars that are further subdivisions of the zodiac and offer us deeper insights into the energies at play. This new Moon occurs in the Nakshatra Anuradha, which is the star of devotion and letting go of those things that no longer serve us. It asks us to look at our daily habits, which are really rituals, and reflect on how and if they serve us. Where can we make changes? How can we bring greater awareness to our daily habitual behaviours? What are you excited about? These are all worthy questions during this dark moon and throughout the month of December…

Every new Moon is an excellent time for setting intentions, but this particular one is supremely potent for creating some space in our lives to reflect on our dreams and goals, and to spend some time writing those intentions down to help us crystallize a vision for our highest self expression. Grab a journal, light a candle and give yourself the gift of pause and contemplation.

What can we let go of to create space for new energy to flow?
What areas of our life need more attention? after all…Energy flows where attention goes…

MERCURY RETROGRADE | NOV. 25 ~ DEC. 15 / 2024

MERCURY R in Scorpio

Mercury has entered its final retrograde period of 2024 in the Sidereal sign of Scorpio. Mercury governs travel, technology, communication, friends, humour and intellect. As always, this is an excellent time to double check emails and texts, make sure the car is running well and give yourself extra time for travel. You may just thank yourself for it later!

Mercury R in Scorpio holds the potential to uncover hidden information and secrets ~ both personal and within the collective. During this time (and especially after Mars also goes retrograde on Dec. 6 ~ see below), it may be a very interesting period to peruse the headlines and see what kind of new information is coming to light. Jupiter is aspecting Sun, Mercury and Moon encouraging the language of truth and learning. However, take it all with a grain of salt as many reports may not initially be accurate during the retrograde period. However, overall, December promises to be an intellectually enlightening time.

Mercury remains in Scorpio throughout December until very early January ~ the retrograde period lengthening its stay here; however it will direct on December 15th bringing greater clarity to newly revealed information. While in Scorpio, Mercury brings a sharpness to the intellect, heightens intuition and investigative skills uncovering hidden truths.

If you have a mystery to solve, now is the time to be inquisitive. You may also find that you are revisiting old relationships, or receive messages from people you have not spoken to in a long time. Mercury R in Scorpio is digging through our past to see what remains unresolved. This could be a wonderful time for reconnection / closure for relationships that ended suddenly even a long time ago.

Scorpio is deep emotional waters and can bring suppressed psychological traumas and wounds that still need healing to the surface. If the mind and emotions feel out of sync during this time it may be a clue that there are repressed emotions seeking to be processed and released. Take the time to reflect upon how you communicate and what kinds of relationships add value and meaning to your life. Scorpio can be very sharp tongued, so it’s wise to take a minute and think before we speak during this time.

December promises to be a time of deep healing for all. Instead of coming from reaction, it’s a time to reflect and respond with intention. Speak clearly, proofread fine print and take your time. And remember, the way we speak to ourselves is most important ~ be kind, compassionate and patient with yourself and you’ll have a much easier time with everyone else.

SUN in SAGITTARIUS | DEC. 15 / 2024 ~ JAN. 13 / 2025

SUN in Sagittarius

If you are born between December 15th and January 13, in Vedic Astrology, your Sun sign is Sagittarius ~ Happy Birthday!

Sun leaves Scorpio halfway through December and moves into Sagittarius. After illuminating the underworld of Scorpio, the Sun will move through a Gandanta zone as it transits from a water to a fire sign. This period, from around Dec. 14-19th, is a heating up period ~ picture steam rising off a lake when the Sun rises.

Gandanta periods are associated with feelings of release ~ a shifting of energies that can often have us feeling a little disoriented; however, it is a potent time for learning how to trust our inner guidance, connect with Soul and often finds us intuitively leaping into something new.

Sagittarius is governed by Jupiter ~ the great Guru of philosophy, spirituality, deep thought, expansion, exploration, travel and dharma. At the same time, in an imbalanced state, Jupiter is also dogma, extremism and fanaticism. Therefore, if you find yourself digging your heels in about your point of view, it’s good time to practice letting go. You may find this to be a welcome opportunity to expand your consciousness. Therefore, be aware of stubborn attachment to opinions and beliefs, listen more, allow the mind to open and release the ego’s need to be right. After all, if there was one single path that offered liberation to all, the great mysteries of existence would be much easier to solve.

“Living Enlightenment is the ability to be able to see the Absolute in all directions.” ~ AnandJi TAT TVAM ASI

The Sun in Sagittarius is a wonderful and potent time for starting a daily Spiritual practice, known as “Sadhana” in yoga. An ideal time to study Spiritual and philosophical wisdom, pull out your oracle cards and meditate.

Sagittarius loves adventure, travel, foreign lands and being in nature. A highly adaptable sign, Sagittarians welcome new experiences and thrive in exploration and expansive experiences.

The constellation of Sagittarius is symbolized by the Archer pointing her arrow directly at the galactic centre of the Milky Way. For everyone this a time to reconnect with Self, Soul and Source ~ to go within. After all, it is from our centre that we are able to find balance, inner peace and vision. The archer must first pull back the arrow before accurately taking aim.

MARS RETROGRADE | DEC. 6 ~ FEB. 23 / 2025

MARS R in Cancer

Mars entered Cancer in November where it is also considered debilitated. That is because while Cancer is the sign of the home, Mars is the planet of the battlefield, the sports arenas and generally loves to be active and involved in challenge, competition and service. This position brings an increase in intensity and complexity to our home life and, depending on where Mars sits in your birth chart, may bring certain frustrations and conflict.

Mars only retrogrades every two years and rarely in Cancer. Anyone with planets around 11º of Cancer will feel these energies more acutely. Mars retrograde increases feelings of irritability, power struggle, anger, courage, bravery and protection. This alignment in Cancer may bring up issues with the Mother, the home, real estate and vehicles. It is an opportunity for all of us to release any resentments or grudges we may be holding onto and shed some energetic weight.

Aspected by Venus in Capricorn it may bring about tensions around money, inviting a pragmatic approach to our finances. For some of us it may also bring about the opportunity to meet someone new ~ this is a time when “opposites attract”, perhaps bringing a fiery intensity to new encounters.

Mars retrograde intensifies the energy needed for even modest efforts and asks us to dig deep for patience and perseverance. Expect to fluctuate between strong bursts of energy and the lows of lethargy as energy swings are likely to be frequent and sometimes extreme. This can be confusing if not understood, but with awareness and knowledge of these cosmic energies, we are better prepared and therefore, able to surf the waves with grace.

Cancer is the home and it also represents the homeland. While Mars is debilitated in Cancer, in retrograde, however, it acts as if exalted. During this time it is quite possible that there may be an increase in violence regarding the various global conflicts currently taking place. Saturn remains in Aquarius, which is a harmonious, strong placement in its own sign ~ and is an energy that supports the “power of the people” ~ this mutual aspect with Mars holds significant potential for world events pertaining to strikes, demonstrations, revolt and revolution.

Great wisdom teaches us to focus on the things we can change, which generally have to do with ourselves. Therefore, everyone, and in particular, anyone with Scorpio or Aries rising or Moon (according to the Vedic Sidereal system of Astrology), would be wise to use this Mars retrograde season to up-regulate their health, take time to enjoy the home while you can, fix things that need fixing and do your very best to stay out of conflict.

Whenever feeling stressed, angry, overwhelmed and irritated, chant, “Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti.”

For all of us it is a time to practice extra patience and kindness. To listen more and talk less. To drive with awareness and allow for those having temper tantrums to simply go on their way without getting involved.

Depending on where Mars sits in your chart and which houses it governs specifically for you, deeper insight can be gathered during a Jyotish reading of your chart, but in general Mars is the natural karaka of the 1st and the 8th houses. The first house is the physical self ~ therefore, take care of your health during this time. The 8th house is many things including hidden, secretive and occult knowledge and enemies, accidents and everything you cannot see with your physical eyes. The 8th often brings sudden, unexpected life events, so if the waters are calm in your world, try to be grateful and enjoy the peace.

More on Mars in upcoming letters as we move through these next few months. However, if you feel particularly affected by these energies and would like to know, please reach out for a 1:1 reading.

VENUS in Capricorn | DEC. 2 - 28 / 2028

Venus is the planet of economy, wealth, abundance, beauty and of course, relationships. Pragmatic, serious and conservative, Capricorn knows hard work, leadership and authority.

Venus in Capricorn during the month of December is likely to bring up conversations around money in relationships. Aspected by Mars and Jupiter here, Venus gets charged up with energy and insight around finances and power. We may all find ourselves more money conscious during this time and many of us will be looking for new ways to make and save money.

Capricorn is excellent at creating multiple and passive streams of income, so allow yourself to be open to new ideas and proactive about addressing debts and savings. A great time to review spending habits and set up automatic savings plans. Jupiter’s aspect may inspire many of us to contemplate our relationship with money. If you feel charmed and able to donate and give, Jupiter’s grace will be with you.

If you find yourself in conflict over money with a business or intimate partner, remember the intensity of Mars R in Cancer opposing Venus (see above) may be supporting an unnecessary power struggle. Compromise and open-mindedness is paramount for success in any relationship ~ and ~ as long as Mercury is retrograde until Dec. 15th, know that communication (especially around such inherently charged subjects such as money) can feel unnecessarily strained and confusing. So, if it can wait, let it; if it can’t wait, do your best to be open, patient and kind in communicating. You might just thank yourself later!

Money matters will feel a lot less serious when Venus moves into watery and bountiful Aquarius at the end of the month.

JUPITER RETROGRADE | DEC. 6 ~ FEB. 23 / 2025

JUPITER R in Taurus

**JUPITER RETROGRADE in Taurus | OCT. 9 / 2024 ~ FEB. 4 / 2025**
**In Taurus MAY 2024 ~ MAY /2025**

Jupiter also remains retrograde until early February and will remain in Taurus until May of 2025. Jupiter, known as Guru in Vedic Astrology, is a Master teacher and governs wisdom, higher knowledge and spirituality. This retrograde time holds profound significance for all 12 zodiac signs and is a time for deep introspection, reflection and higher learning.

Generally this is not considered a great time for significant life changes, decisions or big investments; however, individual chart analyses may vary. But, generally speaking, the energy of this time is potent for self-discovery, spiritual practice, study and research for future big decisions. Jupiter governs and supports expansion, but when retrograde, this energy is “twisted” and may result in unnecessary challenges which can be avoided by waiting and using this time for proper due diligence and contemplation allowing one to be informed and prepared for taking action with the support of Jupiter when he directs again early next year.

Depending on where Taurus and Jupiter sit in your chart, this transit may be activating all kinds of expansion and new insight into what truly charms you in life. Taurus is ruled by Venus ~ a highly creative, grounded, earthy, strong, stable, dependable and sometimes, stubborn sign, Taureans value beauty, luxury and comfort; they need to feel inspired to act, but posses incredible staying power and momentum once in motion.

Jupiter in Taurus encourages us all to reflect upon our values and challenges us to face stubborn attitudes and steadfast beliefs. If our experience of life feels limited, it’s usually a sign that we are holding onto certain beliefs that narrow our perspectives and therefore, our experiences. Expansion is key for evolution and evolution is fundamental for experiencing joy.

The Experiencer is the Experience,
The Dancer is the Dance,
You are the Path and the Path is You.

IN SUMMATION

This retrograde season promises to bring a lot of insight, clarity, inspiration and change. It may be a bumpy and tough ride at times, but the challenges are ultimately there to help us grow, discover deeper meaning and realize higher purpose. This is a potent time of personal growth and transformation offering us the opportunity to expand beyond our previously accepted ideas of what is truly possible.

In all honesty, just about everyone I know and have been reading for is going through pretty rough times. A lot of deep questions about life purpose and meaning are rising up for people. It’s been a challenging year and promises to end with a bit of bang with this intense retrograde season. If this is true for you, it’s important that you know you are not alone.

From the yogic perspective, everything that happens is happening for us ~ not “to us” and it is this very shift in awareness and perspective that can completely transform our experience of reality. Why is this happening for me? This is ultimately how the Vedic Sciences of Jyotish, Yoga and Ayurveda support us in living our highest potential.

There will be strong energy fluctuations and a sense of survival running through the collective for a while, but with awareness, we can be the calm shores of respite for those friends in need of support.

Through daily spiritual practices such as meditation, breathwork, mantra and self-awareness, we may purify our own energy and elevate our spirits so we can be there for others who need support. And if that is you and this is a time where you need extra support, please do not hesitate to reach out. This is an excellent time for everyone to take a deeper dive into their birth chart and receive insight and clarity into their life.

Remember that retrogrades are all about Reflection, Reorganizing, Reconsidering, Reviewing, Rethinking, Repurposing, Reimagining, Redoing, Rewriting, ReEvaluating, Reworking, Reframe and of course… Relationships!

As we embark upon December and all the busyness that brings to our lives, I hope you may Remember these words and Remind yourself to pause throughout your day for big, deep, long, slow breaths ~ Recentering yourself in love and light.

I invite you to respond to this email with any questions or comments you may have. Please feel free to forward to friends whom you think may benefit from the information. The end of our calendar year is always a potent time for contemplation and reflection ~ if I can be of service to you in any way, please do not hesitate to reach out.

In gratitude,
christina shakti

Om Shanti Shanti Shanti Hari Om Tat Sat

“Life’s extraordinary moments unfold not by planning, but through discovery. Tune into the intelligence of existence, let spirit guide you, and watch as the extraordinary reveals itself. Embrace the joy of the unknown and let life lead you to places you never knew existed.”
~ AnandJi

Alchemy of December Energies