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Vedic Astrology Services from Juliana
June is the time for being in the world in new ways, for throwing off the cold and dark spots of life. (Joan D. Chittister)
Who’s ready for a new month? It’s been a very cold spring in my home in Santa Fe, so I am excited to welcome summer and the return of warmer weather.
If you would prefer to listen to an abbreviated report instead of reading this article, please check out our free podcast version.
Let’s take a look at what to expect in June:
June 1: The First Day of Meteorological Summer in the Northern Hemisphere - Time to Start a New Season
June 1 marks the first day of meteorological summer in the northern hemisphere. It will be the first day of meteorological winter in the southern hemisphere. The meteorological seasons are based on weather and temperature cycles.
June 1-2: Jupiter Will Transit Into Cancer - A Sea Change
Jupiter will move into Cancer on June 1 in the western half of the world, and on June 2 in the eastern half of the world (including India). Please see my recent article about this incredibly significant transit.
During the first week of June, Jupiter will be transiting through the one-degree edge between Gemini and Cancer, known as sandhi. Vedic astrology shastra teaches that a planet in sandhi will have some malefic (negative) effects. Therefore, we may not start to feel the full positive effects of Jupiter in Cancer until it moves past this sensitive cusp (by June 6-7).
June 2-13: The Vedic Pushkara Festival - Spiritual Nourishment Abounds
Every year, Jupiter transits into a new sign, as it will on June 1 (or June 2 depending on your location). According to the Vedic tradition, the twelve days preceding and twelve days following Jupiter’s entry into a new sign comprise a sacred period of time known as the festival of Pushkara or Pushkaram.
Pushkara honors the sacred rivers of India. This holy festival is a deeply meaningful tradition in which the rivers of India are worshiped as personified deities. This year, the full period of Pushkara will occur in India from May 21 to June 13, but the actual festivals will be celebrated from June 2-13.
Pushkara is based on the allegorical legend of a boon that Lord Shiva granted long ago to an ascetic and pious Brahmin. The boon was that the Brahmin would be able to live in the holy rivers, and that his presence would purify them. The Brahmin came to be known as Pushkara, “the one who nourishes.” Lord Brihaspati (Jupiter) asked Pushkara to let him enter one of each of the twelve sacred rivers every year when he (Brihaspati) entered a new astrological sign.
So, celebrants take holy baths, meditate, perform pujas and prayers, and make offerings along one of the twelve sacred rivers in India during Pushkara. This year, the river being celebrated is the Yamana, the second-largest tributary river of the Ganges.
In my understanding, the spiritual purification of the rivers is also carried into the atmosphere and into the oceans across the whole wide world to bring forth empowerment, cleansing, and divine healing during this celebration. Pushkara is a very important time as it helps to usher in the new transit cycle for Jupiter, the planet of dharma, spiritual matters, and prosperity.
June 7-19: Kala Sarpa Yoga - The Serpent of Time is Back (Again)
The lunar nodes will form a Kala Sarpa Yoga from June 7-19. This formation is also known as a “Draconic Bowl.” Kala Sarpa literally means the “Serpent of Time.” It occurs when all the planetary bodies used in Vedic astrology (Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn) transit on one side of the sky mirror inside the axis of the lunar nodes. In this case, the Kala Sarpa will occur between Leo and Aquarius. This event is an ongoing dynamic that has been occurring for about two weeks each month since March. This pattern will continue into July.
A Kala Sarpa Yoga tends to intensify or exaggerate whatever other astrological energies are at play in a horoscope. It suggests extreme energies and big highs and lows. In mundane astrology, Kala Sarpa Yoga is sometimes described as a state of entrapment in unforeseen or catastrophic karmic events that can afflict us with suffering due to polarizing, predatory, and subversive forces. That said, it is not always difficult. In fact, this yoga can also represent enormous spiritual growth and material success.
June 8 to July 4: Venus Will Transit in Cancer - Maximum Blessings
Venus will transit in Cancer from June 8 to July 4.
In its highest expression, Venus in Cancer is artistic, gentle, elegant, and charitable. During this transit, we may feel more emotionally sensitive and sentimental than usual. We could feel introspective and drawn toward self-nurturing practices. We may also deepen our concerns and feelings for others during this transit. Venus in Cancer typically favors gardening, home improvement, fishing, and real estate and property matters.
Venus will conjoin Jupiter in Cancer on June 9 at one-and-a-half degrees of Cancer in the extremely fortunate fourth pada of Punarvasu nakshatra. This is the pushkara navamsa, a special area of the lunar zodiac which brings maximum blessings. Venus and Jupiter conjoin every year, but it is very rare that they come together in this particular section of Punarvasu, which means the “Return of the Light.”
The conjunction of Jupiter and Venus is known as Guru-Shukra Yoga, a combination for great luck, happiness, generosity, and wisdom. The two gurus, as they are known, will be visible in the western sky about an hour after sunset, with both shining brightly until they set well before midnight. The much brighter Venus will be slightly to the north of Jupiter.
Some astrologers may consider this a graha yuddha (a planetary war formed within a one-degree conjunction). But as to this particular aspect, I am more in accordance with the description by Sage Varahamihira in Brihat Samhita (Ch. XVII, p. 210), which states that “when both planets at conjunction are radiant, large, and glossy, they being in love with each other conduce to their respective parties establishing peace and friendship between them.”
This looks to be a generally auspicious day for travel, beginning a new creative project, making an investment, or beginning a new relationship. After their close meeting, Venus will begin moving past Jupiter. Until Venus leaves Cancer on July 4, the two planets will be forming an in-sign conjunction. This will bring many potential blessings to the house that Cancer occupies in a natal or mundane horoscope, and to the houses (and any planets therein) that they aspect (Capricorn, Pisces, and Scorpio).
June 10-14: Balsamic Moon Phase - Time for Healing, Rest, Rejuvenation, and Clearing in Preparation for the New Moon
The Balsamic “Dreamtime” lunar phase will occur from June 10-14. This is the time to pause, listen within, clear, clean, and heal in preparation for the upcoming New Moon. Pay attention to dream messages and everyday oracles and notice how much easier it is to meditate and tune in to your intuition during this time.
June 9-11: Saturn and the Moon Square Mercury - Potential for Emotional Tension, Communication and Transportation Challenges, Fear, and Pessimism
From June 9-11, and exactly on June 10 at the beginning of this month’s Balsamic Moon phase, Saturn will conjoin the Moon near 19 degrees of Pisces. Mercury near 19 degrees of Gemini will square Saturn and the Moon. This is a heavy aspect pattern that can represent emotional tension, fear, pessimism, procrastination, and challenges with communication and transportation matters. It will be a good time to mind the mind, avoid negative thinking, and take extra care.
June 13: Mercury’s Pre-Retrograde Shadow Period Begins - An Astrological Prologue to the Upcoming Mercury Retrograde Season
On June 13, Mercury will enter its pre-retrograde shadow phase. This period will last until Mercury stations retrograde on June 29. During this time, we should pay attention to any resurfacing past issues or new pressing concerns appearing in our lives. Such matters may point to the important themes that will be playing out during the upcoming Mercury retrograde cycle. It’s important to remain mindful and be aware of our triggers, emotional responses, and mental anxieties now, as these will be clues to help us prepare for whatever may be brewing.
June 14/15: The New Moon in Taurus (Again) - Time for a Major Reset
The New Moon (Sun + Moon) will occur on June 14, at 10:54 PM EDT (June 15 at 2:54 AM UTC). Check out WorldTimeBuddy to convert to your local time if it is different. According to Vedic astrology, the day leading up to the New Moon is called Ashadha Amavasya, and you can check DrikPanchang for the exact timing of this holy day for your location. It is a day particularly suited to ancestral healing rituals.
In the New Moon chart, the Sun and the Moon will occupy 29 degrees and 49 minutes of Taurus. Some of my readers may notice that this New Moon is occurring in the same sign as last month’s New Moon, which occupied one degree and 44 minutes of Taurus. Occasionally, two New Moons will occur two months in a row just like this. The last time this occurred in Taurus was in May and June of 2018, when the New Moon occupied zero degrees and 29 minutes of Taurus in the first month, and 28 degrees and 37 minutes of Taurus the second month.
Two New Moons occurring in the same sign like this marks a significant astrological event, because it places added emphasis on the themes of Taurus, as well as on the themes of the house that Taurus occupies in a natal or mundane horoscope. This could point to major changes and even a reset related to the sign of Taurus, which in mundane astrology represents national trade, business, agriculture and food production, the automobile industry, and generally, all economic matters (earning capacity of the nation, banks, stocks and securities, and loans).
By itself, the New Moon occurring at the end of Taurus signals some dramatic transitions leading to fresh new perspectives. The New Moon further occurs in Mrigashira nakshatra, known as the Searching Star, and in Virgo navamsa, which seeks to establish more clarity, order, and efficiency.
The New Moon falling at the end of Taurus can also indicate feelings of uncertainty or futility, and perhaps an impulse to look for meaning and satisfaction outside oneself. However, New Moon periods are always a time for recharging and focusing inward through healing and contemplative practices. In other words, we must reconnect within ourselves to find what we are seeking, and especially in this particular lunation
The New Moon (Sun+Moon) will be in a close conjunction to the fixed star Capella, or Alpha (α) Auriga, the 6th largest star in the sky marking the little she-goat carried on the Charioteer’s left shoulder. When aligned with the Sun and the Moon, Capella is sometimes associated with severe earthquakes or volcanic eruptions, which would be likely to occur in the weeks ahead anytime up the the Full Moon on June 29.
June 15 to July 16: The Sun Will Transit in Gemini - A Time for Fun, Creativity, and Connection
The Sun will transit in lighthearted Gemini from June 15 to July 16. The Sun in Gemini is communicative, creative, and playful. In general, this can be a very pleasant transit for the Sun. During this time, you may become very busy. You might also focus on learning, socializing, traveling, or engaging in creative pursuits and business matters. The downside can be a tendency for restlessness, impatience, or superficiality.
The Sun will not enter Gemini until early on June 15. This means that the day before will be the sankranti time, when the Sun is in transition on the vulnerable edge of two signs (sandhi). This is typically considered an unstable period that can have negative consequences.
Big earthquakes, major storms, floods, accidents, and violent civil or military conflicts have occurred on previous occasions of the sankranti Sun moving from Taurus into Gemini, and also for a few days around this transitional period. So we should not “rock the boat.” Instead, you should stay steady and alert, and take it easy out there!
On a more positive note, the day that the Sun enters Gemini is called Mithuna Sankranti in the Vedic tradition. In certain parts of India, Mithuna Sankranti marks the start of the joyful monsoon season.
June 20 to August 2: Mars Will Transit in Taurus - Slow and Steady Wins the Race
Mars transits in Taurus every two years, and this year it will be in Taurus from June 20 to August 2.
Mars can be motivated and ambitious here in the sign of the Bull. In addition, it provides a sense of strength and stability. The key expression for this placement is “slow and steady wins the race!” Mars in Taurus reflects a powerful drive for material security. In Vedic astrology, Mars is known as Bhumi Karaka, the son of the Earth, whereas Taurus is the first earth sign in the zodiac. Therefore, Mars in Taurus relates very much to the natural world and all human endeavors. At the same time, the lower expression of this placement manifests in stubbornness, inflexibility, self-indulgence, and relationship conflicts.
Mars in Taurus points to the everyday mundane struggles and conflicts that affect all of us in our ever-changing world. This transit has previously been associated with losses on the stock exchange, financial panics, and banking failures. The threat to human lives and the depletion of worldwide resources due to involvement in wars, consumer fraud, and wasteful government spending becomes ever more real and troubling during this transit. Mars in Taurus may also highlight complex challenges in the economy and business in general, jobs and wage growth, supply chains, food and agriculture, and the automobile industry.
From June 15 to July 5, Mars will transit in Krittika nakshatra, which spans from 26 degrees and 40 minutes of Aries to ten degrees of Taurus. Krittika is ruled by Agni, the God of fire, whereas Mars is the lord of fire.
This indicates a heightened period of fiery energy, including (literally) major disastrous life-threatening wildfires. Mars in Taurus is also associated with earthquakes, and this is especially a risk now as Mars will be conjunct Uranus in Taurus through the next several weeks (Mars and Uranus will be exactly conjunct July 4.)
June 21: The Solstice - Be Cautious, and Focus on Spiritual Attunement and Communion with Nature
The solstice will occur on Sunday, June 21 at 4:24 AM EDT (8:24 AM UTC). Use World Time Buddy to find the exact time if your location is different.
This will be the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, and the first day of summer in the northern hemisphere. It will be the winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, and the first day of winter in the southern hemisphere. On the June solstice, the Sun will appear to touch the northernmost point along the horizon and rest for three days before embarking on its six-month southerly journey.
Solstices generate subtle magnetic changes within us and in the world at large. Those who are especially sensitive may start to feel these shifting energies three days in advance of the solstice standstill, and for three days afterward, as well. During this time, our mental activity may be amplified, which can trigger psychological imbalances or relationship conflicts. Our physical health may be vulnerable, so it’s important to be extra mindful and vigilant.
June 22: Dhumavati Jayanti - Happy Birthday to the Goddess of Letting Go
Dhumavati Jayanti is an auspicious day celebrating the birth of Mata Dhumavati, one of the ten Tantric Wisdom Goddesses (Dasa Mahavidya). Dhumavati represents the impermanence of life, and is thus depicted in a cremation ground riding a chariot driven by crows, or sometimes perched on a crow. Her name means the “Smoky One,” because part of her power is to conceal the material realm in order to reveal the deeper reality beyond the worldly illusions of Maya.
Dhumavati can be invoked to help us liberate the mind and let go of egoistic attachments in order to attain spiritual and emotional freedom. According to Vedic astrology, Dhumavati can also be propitiated as a remedy for problems related to Ketu.
June 22 to July 7: Mercury Will Transit in Cancer - Emotional Intensity and Sensitivity
Mercury will transit in Cancer from June 22 to July 7 (and it will come back into Cancer in August due to its retrograde cycle).
Mercury has just transited into Cancer (June 22), where it will remain until July 7 (and it will come back into Cancer in August due to its retrograde cycle). Mercury represents our intellects and our nervous systems. This planet is gentle, intuitive, sentimental, and very sensitive here in the sign of the Crab.
However, Mercury can also be melancholic, irrational, and anxious here. We will benefit from maintaining consistency and objectivity and avoiding emotional reasoning during this transit, especially as Mercury will station retrograde here next week on June 29.
On the physical level, Mercury in Cancer can also point to various kinds of illnesses such as allergies, coughs and colds, stomach ailments, inflammation, and nerve or gas ailments. Also keep in mind that Mercury rules wind and weather, and Cancer is a water sign, so heavy rains and floods are sometimes a concern with this transit.
On the positive side, from June 23 to July 4, Mercury will conjoin Jupiter and Venus, forming a Saraswati Yoga in the sign of Cancer. This lovely combination is formed when these three benefic planets conjoin while Jupiter is exalted (as it is now in Cancer); or when it is in its own or a friendly sign; and in an angle, trine, or the second house from the Ascendant or the Moon.
This means that this combination will be activated for those whose charts have the Ascendant or Moon in Cancer, Libra, Scorpio, Capricorn, Pisces, Aries, or Gemini. Saraswati Yoga signifies a harmonious blend of good fortune, creativity, eloquence, and inspiration. I believe that for many of us, the Saraswati Yoga will bring out the best that Mercury in Cancer can offer.
June 25: Gayatri Jayanti - Happy Birthday to Gayatri Mataji!
Gayatri Jayanti is the birthday of the goddess Gayatri. She is recognized as Veda Mata, the mother of the Vedas and all the deities. She embodies the pure essence of Saraswati, Parvati, and Lakshmi. This is a special day in the Vedic calendar for pujas, fasting, offerings, and especially for chanting the supreme Gayatri mantra.
June 27: Shani Trayodashi - Jai Shani Dev and Om Namah Shivaya!
Shani Trayodashi is a Vedic holy day that occurs when the Trayodashi tithi (the thirteenth day of the waxing lunar cycle) falls on a Saturday (Saturn’s Day). This is a special day in the Vedic calendar for worshiping Lord Shani (Saturn) through pujas, fasting, mantra practices, ritual offerings, and other such observances. It is said to be a day of peace and prosperity when devotees will be protected from negativity.
Special offerings and prayers are also made to Lord Shiva this day, as Shani is his devotee. The auspicious three-hour period one-and-a-half hours before and after the sunset is the most optimum time for worship of Lord Shiva and Shani on this date.
June 29: Mercury Will Station Retrograde in Cancer - Potential for Disruption and Delays
Mercury will station retrograde on June 29 at 1:36 PM EDT (5:36 PM UTC). Mercury will be transiting at two degrees of Cancer at its retrograde station, will move back into Gemini on July 7, and will station direct about 24 days later on July 23 at 22 degrees of Gemini.
Mercury retrograde periods are often related to disruptions, delays, frustrations, and changes in our lives. This is all likely to be heightened because Mercury is stationing retrograde on the Full Moon day, and in a 6/8 quincunx with the Full Moon!
On a more positive note, these cycles can help us to deepen our understanding of ourselves and of others. In my astrological practice with clients, I note the houses that Cancer and Gemini occupy in a natal chart, along with any natal planets or chart points that will be aspected by transiting Mercury. This gives me more information about this retrograde cycle and some of the challenges, lessons, and opportunities that might occur.
Mercury is the Messenger who is said to be traveling in the Underworld during his retrograde cycle. During this time, he can help us access our deeper unconscious mind and solve problems in surprising ways. New awareness can be brought to light to help us overcome perceived limitations, resolve problems, and bring peace to our past. This is also a wonderful time to catch up, regroup, and reorganize. We can step back, reflect, and reconsider where we have come from and where we are going.
June 29: Full Moon in Sagittarius - The Moon of Invigoration and Inspiration
On June 29, the Full Moon will occur at 14 degrees of Sagittarius, at 7:57 PM EDT (11:57 PM UTC). This Full Moon is traditionally known as the Hot Moon or Summer Moon, for obvious reasons.
The Full Moon will align with the invincible and invigorating nakshatra of Purva Ashadha, signifying that this will be an opportune time to do contemplative and healing practices and rituals that recharge our life force. This is also a great time to review and renew our commitments and goals in harmony with our values and aspirations.
The Full Moon in Purva Ashadha is favorable for agricultural activities, visiting ancient sites, artistic or musical performances, water sports and travel over water, and all kinds of sports and adventures. It’s also a great time to inspire others, to settle debts, and to confront difficult relationship issues with an eye toward peacemaking and reconciliation.
And that's a wrap for June! There will be some difficulties this month, as Mercury, the Lunar Nodes, and Mars will be in challenging positions. That said, we will also receive many blessings in June, especially as Jupiter and Venus promise to send us some uplifting, positive energy. Overall, this is a wonderful time to celebrate the beginning of summer and the warmer months ahead. And for those in the southern hemisphere, it is a wonderful time to celebrate the beginning of the deeply mystical winter season.
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