When we speak about the winter Solstice as a celebration of the Sun’s rebirth in the northern hemisphere, we must also acknowledge an astronomical fact: The Solstice no longer occurs in the same star sign it once did.
The seasonal cycle is fixed, but the stellar backdrop has shifted, and with it, the symbolism and meaning of our Solstice - and Christmas - celebrations.
Precession of the Equinoxes (and Solstices)
The slow backwards drift of the Equinoxes - and Solstices - approximately 1° every 72 years, is caused by the precession of Earth’s axis. Over millennia, this causes the Tropical zodiac (seasonal) and the Sidereal zodiac (star-based) to separate.
In Indian astrology, this drift is measured using different ayanāṁśa, with citrapakṣa used as the midpoint of the lunar mansion citrā – 0° Sidereal Libra - marked by the ‘fixed star’ Spica. This point acts as a stellar anchor for the beginning of the opposite 0° Sidereal Aries.
Approximately 2,500 years ago, the Equinoxes and Solstices aligned closely with the beginning of the cardinal Sidereal signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn). However, since then, these have been slowly moving backwards through the stars, i.e., the Sidereal zodiac.
The Moon meets the Sun at the beginning of Sagittarius, in the lunar mansion Mūla. Mūla means 'root', pointing both to our cosmic origins (the galactic centre viewed through this sign), and to our personal and collective roots as a family and as a species. These themes often rise to the surface as we enter the holidays and reconnect with relatives we may not see all year.
Mūla helps us get to the root of things, revealing long-held beliefs that need to be released. Its symbol, a bunch of roots, also speaks to healing, especially through herbs. This is a time when family wounds can be healed, but the process can cut deep as buried issues come to light.
Mūla is ruled by Niritti, the 'goddess of destruction', reminding us that anything standing in the way of truth must be cleared. At the Christmas table, remember that everyone holds their own version of the truth, especially with Jupiter retrograde in Gemini amplifying opinions!
With Mars in combustion and Venus crossing the Scorpio–Sagittarius juncture, tensions may rise, and arguments can break out easily. To maintain peace, avoid discussing sensitive topics and simply enjoy your meal - unless you need to clear the air.
The New Moon occurs a day before the Solstice, which is itself a turning point, and with Jupiter, the New Moon's ruler, bright at the mid-way point of its retrograde phase. Ultimately, this period is about reconnecting to the truth within, so you can meet the truth within others with more grace.
Darinka Maja joins me to discuss the various indicators of mental health and well-being in the Vedic chart, and how these might be obstructed.
The Full Moon occurs in sidereal Taurus, in the lunar mansion Rohiṇī, which I like to call ‘the comfortable one’. This reflects Taurus’ warm, passionate, and pleasure-seeking nature. Its symbol, a chariot, represents wealth, comfort, and the finer things in life.
In myth, Rohiṇī was the Moon’s favourite wife (nakṣatra), and the Moon stayed with her longer than the others. This represents staying longer with what feels good. As the story goes, the Moon was cursed to wax and wane because of this attachment, reminding us that pleasure also has its ups and downs.
Still, comfort and enjoyment are essential, represented by this lunar mansion and the ruler of Taurus, Venus. Without the nicer things in life, we have little protection from more challenging experiences, especially those represented by Scorpio, the opposite sign. With many planets, including the Sun, moving through Scorpio at this time, our focus can lean heavily toward what could go wrong. This Full Moon offers a necessary counterbalance.
The Full Moon is also at the ‘bending of the nodes’, halfway between the eclipses, which brings a change of fate. Yet this could be a pleasant surprise. A pleasant experience with supportive people can help you address the deeper issues you cannot ignore.
Jupiter retrogrades back into Gemini on December 5, with planets moving into Sagittarius for a fiery exchange. By the end of the month, a Mercury–Jupiter sign exchange brings more clarity, even if we are still sketchy on the details or feel somewhat confused (Saturn-Neptune).Jupiter’s return to Gemini asks us to review our hopes (9th house) and dreams (12th house) and communicate something more meaningful and truthful. I recently read a report that stated more and more people are posting less and less on social media platforms. This trend reflects Jupiter’s transit in Gemini, where meaningless engagement no longer satisfies. When you’re ready to let go of what is not your purpose, how to achieve your purpose becomes clearer. Saturn stations direct in Pisces, conjunct Neptune, moving long-term goals forward, which must include ending an illusion. Certain things are no longer sustainable, including the ‘AI bubble’ everyone is worried about bursting. Mercury re-enters Scorpio and opposes Uranus on December 10, bringing more revelations. More hidden information resurfaces (Epstein files!) before a more open dialogue emerges later in the month as Mercury enters Sagittarius. We see four planets move from Scorpio to Sagittarius in December. Mars enters Sagittarius on December 7 (square Saturn), followed by the Sun (Dec 15), Venus (Dec 20), and Mercury (Dec 29). These planets are opposite retrograde Jupiter in Gemini, firing up a fight for truth. Yet Saturn’s restrictive gaze may delay full disclosure.If you know your purpose, you’re more likely to fight for it. However, with several planets in combustion (close to the Sun), motivation may be high, but your conviction may blind you to objective reality.The Full Moon in Taurus (Rohiṇī) on December 4 offers warmth and grounding amid uncertain changes during the first week of December, reminding us of the cyclical nature of enjoyment as a necessary counterbalance to Scorpio themes. The New Moon in Sagittarius (Mūla) on December 20 cuts to the chase, bringing both healing and confrontation, especially around family, beliefs, and long-held patterns. This occurs just before the Solstice, which is itself a turning point.
As the year ends, Mercury enters Sagittarius and inspires hope and enthusiasm.
In the second part about remedial measures in Indian astrology, I'm joined by Marian Babity, a long-time student of astrology. We discuss what karma is and how best to approach our remedies so they help us align with what is.
The Moon reaches its exact degree of debilitation as it joins the Sun and Mercury (retrograde) in Scorpio during the dark lunar phase. This can bring feelings of vulnerability along with deeper insights. Mars’s presence adds strength and renewal.
Though Mercury’s retrograde may cause setbacks, this period is ideal for rethinking what or who you are dedicating yourself to. With Jupiter’s supportive aspect, there’s reason for optimism despite challenges, bringing more discernment about what needs to go, so you can focus on what’s important.
The New Moon phase begins in Viśākhā, which is about making a decision, before moving into Anurādhā, a sign of loyalty and devotion. Anurādhā, ruled by the god of friendship, Mitra, reflects commitment and steadfast dedication once a decision is made.
Yet you may struggle with what to commit to at first, as events realign to help you settle into something more stable. Be mindful not to settle into patterns that no longer serve you.
How to spot them. What they mean.
All planets periodically appear to move backwards in the sky. Retrogrades highlight turning points, where a planet’s influence becomes more complex and internalised. They invite us to slow down, revisit unfinished business, and redirect energy inward for renewal.
Whether it’s Mercury stirring up communication issues or Jupiter challenging clarity of purpose, each retrograde reveals distinctive life themes. Critical moments come when planets station—standing still before shifting direction—marking powerful times for reflection and recalibration.
Kishori joins me to discuss Kṛttikā, the lunar mansion that bridges Aries and Taurus.
Kṛttikā means ‘to cut’ and shows a critical nature. Its symbols are a knife and a blade. Its ruling deity is the god of fire. Fire can either warm or burn, and this sign can do both, while blades can be used to heal or to kill.
The Full Moon falls in Bharaṇī, a Venus-related lunar mansion. With Venus positioned opposite in Libra, there’s potential for balance amid intensity. Venus’ fiery nature fuels passion and creative expression. Bharaṇī, meaning ‘she who bears’, represents creative power and the endurance required to bring something into being. It teaches that to achieve something, we must release something else.
A Full Moon in Aries is typically bold and proactive, and with Mars strong in Scorpio, it is determined. The challenge lies with the Sun, at its exact (?) degree of debilitation (19° Libra). Authority figures or those in leadership roles may need to yield. On a personal level, this calls for awareness of how our actions affect others. If confidence wavers, channel Mars’ courage.
Full Moons signify culmination and surrender; this one encourages taking bold action, then letting go of the outcome. Use this potent energy to make something happen, while remembering that compromise invites completion.
Venus enters Libra by the beginning of November, strengthening the Sun’s weaker position and encouraging cooperation after a period of less-than-ideal relational transits. Fairness may prevail, but tension between Mercury and Mars in Scorpio continues to test peaceful negotiation.
When Mercury stations retrograde on November 9, returning to clash with Mars for a second time on November 12, communication issues may resurface, potentially escalating into further conflict. This is likely to show some disturbances in travel and technologies. In our communications, it’s likely to set something off.
Mars’ aspect to the North Node (Rahu) in Aquarius triggers revolutionary change, although Saturn’s continued conjunction with Neptune in Pisces adds to the uncertainty that has been ever-present in recent months. This has led to a feeling of being caught between two worlds: between what is (Saturn) and what could be (Neptune).
Jupiter, exalted but retrograde in Cancer, by November 11, brings alternating waves of hope and doubt. Its retrograde at the first degree of Cancer keeps progress feeling stalled, as optimism wavers when results are not forthcoming. This may feel more like Jupiter's debilitation in Capricorn, but remind yourself that it will return here in June 2026. Whatever sense you get of what is possible now, keep the faith if these things are delayed.
Supportive links among Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Neptune hint at cautious optimism, even if events don’t unfold as planned in November. Mercury’s retrogression into Libra by November 23 asks us to reassess the details of the negotiations before we can move forward. With Venus moving into Scorpio by November 26, their crossover between Libra and Scorpio is a warning trigger for the end of peaceful conversations, promoting tougher discussions.
November is a Mars-type month, with Mars in Scorpio as planets transit alongside, and with the New and Full Moons in Mars’ signs: The New Moon on November 5 is in Aries; the Full Moon on November 20 is in Scorpio.
Yet this may not be an obvious Mars-like impulse, as April is, for example. This is when the Sun enters Aries, when we’re generally full of energy and drive to do something new. In November, planets’ transits through Scorpio are more inward and downwards, drilling down into our depths to find the strength within, before we begin anything.
With Jupiter holding its ground opposite Pluto in Capricorn, we’re reminded to have faith in meaningful progress, even amid slow or uncertain developments.
The dark Moon on October 21 marks the darkest period in the Indian astrological year, though the literal darkest days of winter come later. In India, this time is celebrated as Diwali, the festival of lights.
The Sun, Moon, and Venus are all in their signs of debilitation — the Sun in Libra, the Moon in Scorpio from October 24–26, and Venus in Virgo, making this a low point. Yet there’s a blessing amid the darkness: Jupiter has just entered exaltation in Cancer, casting its uplifting influence toward the dark themes of Scorpio, as well as Saturn and Neptune in Pisces and Pluto in Capricorn.
This suggests that, even in times of chaotic change (or because of them), we can better perceive the Divine. Jupiter in Cancer inspires faith, growth, and purpose born from having been lost in the world.
The New Moon falls in Citrā nakshatra, meaning brilliant, symbolised by a shining jewel. Its bright star, Spica, reminds us that stars are only visible in the dark. Likewise, our own light often reveals itself through struggle. Citrā, ruled by the celestial architect, encourages us to refine our craft, master our skills, and share our creative gifts (Libra), to sometimes put aside our own needs for others.
Though the weather ahead may appear gloomy, Mars and Mercury in Scorpio strengthen courage and determination, helping us dig deep and persevere. Remember: it’s always darkest before the dawn.
The Moon reaches fullness in Revatī, the final lunar mansion, marking a natural point of endings. This Full Moon invites peace through surrender.
Letting go is a gradual process, but when we allow things to unfold, we create space for simply being. Pisces reflects the need for withdrawing despite a Full Moon typically being a more social time of the month.
Revatī, meaning 'abundant'. It shows the end of a journey, where we have gained much. Even what we lose along the way helps us gain wisdom. Ruled by Pūṣan, a guardian and shepherd deity, Revatī supports us in moving from one life stage to the next. Something may be ending now, even if only a quiet inner shift. Honour it. Take a moment to acknowledge it and release whatever needs to be released.
Revatī points to religious faith in the truest sense. This Full Moon invites you to 'let go and let God'. What awaits is already within. The next steps will come when you're ready.
Venus enters Virgo, its sign of debilitation, on October 9. The mood dips, with more fault-finding. Mercury’s exchange with Venus softens the blow: thoughtful words can improve what feels off.
The Sun enters Libra on October 17, a yearly low, yet Jupiter’s move into exalted Cancer on October 18 brings hope. Faith grows stronger when darkness descends. Yet Jupiter’s stall at Cancer’s first degree (November 11) before retreating to Gemini on December 6 suggests suspended progress—blueprints must be redrawn before new growth can take root.
By October 24, Mercury enters Scorpio, followed by Mars on October 27. Action outweighs words, though words may cut sharply, especially as Venus weakens further, reaching exact debilitation on October 31.
This late-October brew may feel like 'double, double toil and trouble,' but meaning—and faith—outlast fleeting moods. Hold fast to what makes life truly worthwhile.
Two weeks after the Full Moon and total lunar eclipse on September 7, this partial solar eclipse (almost total) releases the built-up emotions, shifting the focus inward as the Sun and Moon align.
Though only visible in parts of the southern hemisphere, its effects ripple worldwide. The eclipsed Sun opposes Saturn, highlighting clashes between authority and the masses, with protests and social unrest likely to continue. Mars and Ketu flanking the Sun intensify the sharpness and insist we cut something out.
On a personal level, this eclipse invites us to break unhealthy patterns and begin anew. It’s a major reset point in the year. Yet, because it falls in Uttara Phālgunī—linked to commitments and agreements—negotiations with others may be an issue. Caution is necessary in all types of relationships; it is a moment to pause and reflect before making commitments you cannot follow through on.
This is also the last day of pitṛpakṣa, the fortnight for the ancestors, with this New Moon being the most important day to honour those who grant your gifts.
This Full Moon is a total lunar eclipse that falls in Pūrva Bhādrapadā, with Rāhu eclipsing the Moon. The Moon represents the mind, and Rāhu brings unreality, anxiety, and distortion—though this can also bring innovation.
Eclipses shake us from ordinary perceptions, opening possibilities and insights that fuel our evolution, especially in the sign of Aquarius. Jupiter’s aspect offers some stability, but this is obscured by Rāhu, blurring the line between insight and illusion.
The days following bring loss and uncertainty as the Sun conjoins Ketu on September 10 and Mercury on September 12, clouding clarity and decision-making.
Expect intensity in the coming days, peaking with the lunar eclipse, before a gradual release as the Moon wanes. Use this two-week eclipse window (September 7–21) for reflection, emotional processing, and necessary tasks.
A total lunar eclipse in Aquarius on September 7 sets the tone for a month of upheaval and change, followed by a partial solar eclipse in Virgo on September 21, marking a major reset. In between, the Sun conjoins Ketu on September 10, amplifying rebellion and unrest.
These eclipses highlight the lunar nodes in Leo and Aquarius for the first time since entering the signs earlier this year. Expect disruptions in leadership and governance, with scandals and resignations likely to surface.
Eclipses stir imbalance, creating urgency without clear direction. Jupiter’s involvement in the lunar eclipse—locked in an exact trine with Rāhu—brings both insights and delusions, making clarity hard to find.
On September 12, Mercury joins Ketu, adding mixed messages and unexpected revelations from leaders. Stay open to unconventional solutions.
The New Moon falls in sidereal Leo and the lunar mansion Maghā. I call it 'The Mighty One'. Its symbols are a royal throne and crown, which denote power, privilege, and entitlement. It is ruled by the ancestors, who grant us whatever privilege we have.
Even when we don’t have something we think we should, we feel entitled to complain about it. When this impulse becomes exaggerated, as it will be for this New Moon and subsequent eclipses, powerful figures who misuse their positions are exposed. We could see someone lose their position because of this in the coming months.
With Ketu moving through Leo in 2025 and 2026—moving through Maghā in 2026—it strips away entitlements that are not aligned with the greater good (Rāhu in Aquarius). From another, more spiritual perspective, Ketu reminds us that nothing and no one belongs to us. We’re just passing through. Everything is eventually taken back, leaving only the unchanging witness within.
Kishori joins me to look at the second lunar mansion within the star sign (sidereal) Aries: Bharaṇī.
Bharaṇī means ‘she who bears’ and represents the power of creation, as well as the forbearance that is required in giving birth to something. The symbol is the female genitalia, and the ruling deity is the god of restraint. Something must be relinquished to achieve a goal. This is a very creative and lustful sign, but also very disciplined - a force to be reckoned with.
This Full Moon in sidereal Capricorn peaks as Mars opposes Saturn, creating tension and heightened emotions, especially around feelings of restriction or pressure. Capricorn demands patience and focus—qualities needed even more with this intense Mars-Saturn opposition.
The Moon aligns with Śravaṇa, the 'star sign of listening', symbolised by an ear and three footsteps. Śravaṇa connects us to knowledge passed down through oral tradition and encourages inward focus, although Full Moons are generally more outgoing. It’s a good time to absorb spiritual teachings, enjoy music, or take short trips—though Mercury opposite the Moon and about to station direct suggests potential delays to be mindful of.
Mercury’s shift in direction may stir confusion, particularly as it occurs in Cancer, heightening emotional and mental noise. Communication challenges are likely, so it’s best to slow down and listen before stating anything as fact.