Vedic Astrology is the astrology of India. It’s called Jyotish in Sanskrit which means “Science of Light”. So what is the difference between Western and Vedic Astrology? Both systems have their strengths and deficiencies. If you view the sun from the surface of the earth and then from the surface of the moon, you will still see the sun, but it will be from different perspective. Vedic Astrology uses the sidereal system of calculation, tracking planetary movements against the position of the stars. Western Astrology emphasizes the relationship of the sun to the earth and the seasons. There is a 24 degree difference in the two calculations due to the Procession of the Equinox. In most cases, you will find your Western sun moved back one sign in the Vedic system. Vedic Astrology also incorporates star signs based on the position of the moon. There are 27 mansions or Nakshatras of the moon and each one has its symbols, deities, elements and myths associated with them. There are also other tools specific to Vedic Astrology such as the Vimshottari Dasa System, where each planet is allotted a certain period of influence, and divisional charts called Shodasavargas, providing deeper perspectives into certain areas.
Western
Aries Apr 13–May 14 Mar 21-Apr 21
Taurus May15-Jun 14 Apr 22-May 20
Gemini Jun 15-Jul 14 May 21-Jun 21
Cancer Jul 15-Aug 14 Jun 22-Jul 22
Leo Aug 15-Sep 15 Jul 23-Aug 23
Virgo Sep 16-Oct 15 Aug 24-Sep 23
Libra Oct 16-Nov 14 Sep 24-Oct 23
Scorpio Nov 15-Dec 14 Oct 24-Nov 22
Sagittarius Dec 15-Jan13 Nov 23–Dec 21
Capricorn Jan 14-Feb 12 Dec 22-Jan 21
Aquarius Feb 13 –Mar 12 Jan 22-Feb 19
Pisces Mar 13-Apr 12 Feb 20-Mar 20
An astrological profile is not merely a sun sign or moon sign but the position and relationship between all of the luminaries and planets which create a unique portrait of an individual’s life. A chart in Vedic Astrology considers the rising sign to be of utmost significance. This is why an accurate birth time is so important when calculating someone’s chart. If you would like to know your ascendant, please refer to the free chart calculator on my website www.vedicmoonastrology.com
Mercury will be in retrograde motion from 5/18 to 6/11 in the sign of Taurus (sidereal). Taurus is practical, down to earth, materialistic and obstinate. Mercury is fast moving and thinking and when retrograde in the sign of the bull, can cause frustration when trying to meet deadlines, making us feel we need to move faster to get things done. Needless to say, it may be a frustrating time for those of us that are more methodical in our approach to daily tasks. Also, double check those text messages and calculations, especially if you are prone to transpose numbers and letters.
New Moon periods are times to assess our life situations and sow our magic seeds with the hope our desires are fulfilled when the moon is again full. It is a time best spent in contemplation.
The New Moon was on April 18th at 11:00 am in the Mansion of Ashwini, The Horse Goddess. This is all about having a pioneering spirit and using holistic measures when it comes to our health. The Horse Goddess is a strong, fiery spiritual warrior. A great new moon to step out with our opinion in a healthy way!
Our Full Moon will be on May 3rd at 7:44 p.m. in the Mansion of Swati and it represents the power of the wind. This moon reminds us to be flexible and light on our feet.
The New Moon on 5/17 at 8:15 p.m.is in the Mansion of Krittika. It is represented by the flame or knife which removes an exterior layer revealing the truth. This is an excellent time for ridding ourselves of unnecessary beliefs, situations and behaviors that no longer server our highest good. The moon opposition Saturn and conjunct Mars and Mercury in Taurus represents a busy time right before Mercury goes into retrograde.
July and August’s forecast will focus upon Jupiter moving into Leo for each ascendant.
Jupiter moves to a different sign once every 12 months approximately.
Christine Sessler is a Vedic Astrologer in Bellingham, WA