|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Category: astrology
-
4 May 2026 Michelangelo and Creativity
Astrology Monday! Creativity: Michelangelo, God’s intention, and Fashionistas 😊 -
27 April 2026 Creativity and the Sun
Astrology Monday! Creativity, the Sun, and why it matters 😊 
This Week’s Focus
The Creative Process
…and why it matters
Issue 17 Volume 9 27 April 2026
Image Credit: José Ibarra
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” – Genesis 1:1
The Creative Process
I’m past patiently waitin’. I’m passionately smashin’ every expectation. Every action’s an act of creation! ~ the character Alexander Hamilton from Hamilton: an American Musical (2015); lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda
What do we do with chaos (in our lives)? Creativity has an answer. We are told by those who have studied the processes of nature that creativity happens at the border between chaos and order. Chaos is a prelude to creativity. We need to learn, as every artist needs to learn, to live with chaos and indeed to dance with it as we listen to it and attempt some ordering. Artists wrestle with chaos, take it apart, deconstruct and reconstruct from it. Accept the challenge to convert chaos into some kind of order, respecting the timing of it all, not pushing beyond what is possible—combining holy patience with holy impatience–that is the role of the artist. It is each of our roles as we launch the twenty-first century because we are all called to be artists in our own way. We were all artists as children. We need to study the chaos around us in order to turn it into something beautiful. Something sustainable. Something that remains.
~ Matthew Fox (1940 ) American priest, theologian, and author of Where the Divine and the Human Meet
The truly creative mind in any field is no more than this: A human creature born abnormally, inhumanly sensitive… By some strange, unknown, inward urgency he is not really alive unless he is creating. ~ Pearl S. Buck (1892 – 1973) American writer and humanitarian, and first American woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature (1938)
Astrology Monday’sArea 51
Research finds the average user only spends 51 seconds skimming a newsletter… This section’s for you. 🤓
This week’s Astro Outlook
Key Happenings
Mars Square Jupiter. Think of this aspect like two friends having a quarrel. It’s not going to get out of hand, but it may leave both in a bad mood. Mars shouts, “Go!” Jupiter asks, “Go where?”
Uranus enters Gemini (for 7 years): This points to technological breakthroughs in how we communicate with one another. A better breakthrough would be in learning to communicate with integrity and not as others expect us.
Next week: Mercury enters Taurus. Mercury likes visiting Taurus, ruled by Venus. Venus is diplomacy and Mercury the vehicle of good communication that makes it happen. Taurus is about safety and security; for breakthroughs to happen, these need to be addressed.
Full Moon Scorpio 1 May 17:23
What at first appears monstrous, becomes your ally
The Moon in Scorpio is generally intense because of the transformative nature of Scorpio, a sign related to karma, the shadow mind, creepy crawlies, and things that go bump in the night. Such things can play havoc on the Moon’s emotional sensibilities. The potential lies in exploring these areas consciously with the intention of peeking into the cellar of your mind. If you go blindly in, you may meet things you don’t like. Armed with the torch of knowledge, however, the shadow you thought was a ten-foot monster becomes a cute little ant. Spend this full Moon quietly exploring your own psyche by pushing your comfort zone.
Your Sun-sign Horoscope
A short guidance to help you through the week 😉
Aries: taking long walks by the sea or a pond will help calm home and family issues
Taurus: spiritual breakthrough is not always about what we gain, but what we let go
Gemini: skeletons in the family closet may be wanting to see the light of day; it’s fine
Cancer: work possibilities and impossibilities are all over the map; follow your bliss
Leo: you finally gain some recognition you deserve at work; hopefully, income, too
Virgo: the past months have been challenging, but unexpected relationships help out
Libra: partnerships are best quietly productive; yours needs some help to keep smooth
Scorpio: if you ever wanted to explore the mysteries of life and death, now’s the time — there’s a gentle hand upon you
Sagittarius: unexpected relationships bring work possibilities and even the chance of true friendship
Capricorn: home life is unsettled, but partnerships divine
Aquarius: the past is not a four letter word; it’s a stairway to heaven and a road to resolution
Pisces: the written word brings insight and recognition; the spoken word not so much
Want a deeper analysis? Try a newsletter special: £49 one hour online session.
Everyone knows how creative the Scots are. They’re always sculpting, painting, singing songs, and writing plays. They invented television, the telephone, and deep-fried Mars bars. 😁
~ David Baillie (1977 — ) Scottish writer and artist best known for creating the Red Thorn comic series
Dear friend and neighbour and fellow traveller;
Uranus into Gemini indicates an explosion in the the communications and information processing fields. Before you roll your eyes and ask, “What now, Uranus?” understand technology is not the issue; it’s the way we use technology that gets us into trouble. In the same way, the creative power within us can be used or misused — it’s always up to us.
In astrology, the creative process is a multi-planetary dance that involves a path drawn from the Sun’s authenticity where the creative power is first sparked and given to Jupiter (creative power), then carried to Mars (will) and expressed through Venus (manifestation). Even Saturn and Mercury who at first glance seem to have no role to play, are involved. Saturn paves the road and removes the obstacles and Mercury greases the gears of the intellect so creativity can be fully unfurled.
PART I: The Sun’s Role
The integrity of any process is only as robust as its weakest link. Given the intensity of our karmic map, in reality we may experience multiple failures. When the Sun is afflicted, we are disconnected from our true nature creating confusion about who we are. Such a person tends to wander through life rather than drive with confidence. They frequently change fields of study at the university or go from job to job not because they are inept; because they are bored. Finding satisfaction and contentment eludes them because their unconscious is steering them towards what is safe and comfortable rather than what is fulfilling and natural.
Fulfilment is a product of living true to our authentic nature. The afflicted Sun person lives behind a veil of delusion about who they are. They have assumed a false identity that is dominating their existence as a means to protect themselves from pain. This identity can take many forms and contains all the “I ams” that reverberate through the psyche. We can spend a lifetime attempting to prop up a false identity. Eventually, if we are fortunate, we come to the realisation that the heavy weight that suffocates us is our own doing and we seek a deeper answer through self-improvement and therapy. If we even more fortunate, we find answers through the grace and guidance of a spiritual master.
I worked with a young fellow in the ashram kitchen many years ago who had embraced a kind of gothic/punk identity since his teenage years. Personality wise, he was very intelligent, very kind, and quite unruffled. He had a high intensity position in the kitchen office, but in the ten years I knew him, I never saw him lose his cool. I was personally present when the guru commented that he was the only strong person in the kitchen. Being an athlete at the time, I knew she was not speaking about physical strength for his arms were like the legs of a chicken. She was speaking about his inner state. I took notice.
I never saw him wear any colour but black. He listened to heavy metal punk, kept his hair cut like a punk rocker, wore skull earrings, eye shadow, and a black leather jacket and boots. The question, of course, was not whether he was a punker. His outward appearance and lifestyle were not an issue for any of us nor should it have been. To the guru, of course, authenticity is not something we wear, but a state of being. The guru is not interested in what we we do but how we do it. If we are not being true to ourselves, eventually the guru’s fire of love will sandblast the false ideas and notions we have carried for an eternity.
After a year’s absence from the ashram, I could not believe the transformation that had occurred in not only his appearance but in his aloof, detached demeanour that somehow always seemed to be a form of self-protection. Now dressed in a sport coat and tie in shades of brown and tan, he was a first class executive. No makeup, no skulls, and no black leather. Married to one of the guru’s secretaries, he had a prestigious position in the ashram foundation. All this time, there had been another, more authentic fellow underneath the black clothes waiting to be expressed. He lived as Saturn, but became the Sun.
How does the Sun show its afflictions?
The Sun’s most powerful enemy is Ketu, but Ketu only afflicts the Sun if conjunct (in the same sign). When it is, the effects are like a cloud passing over the Sun and we have enormous trouble seeing who we really are. Ketu is the past, and its influence upon the Sun reveals profound trauma in previous lifetimes around expressing oneself authentically and living true to one’s nature.
In a similar vein, Saturn is the next most powerful enemy to the Sun. In Vedic mythology, Saturn is the son of the Sun who became inimical when the Sun and his court rejected Saturn because of his lack of brilliancy. In the Sun’s kingdom, Saturn plays a crucial role. Saturn is the castle, the fortified walls that offer protection and survival. Together, however, Saturn causes the Sun to focus on survival at the expense of the individual’s creative nature. In such individuals, you find them caught in an unfulfilling cycle where they feel they need to choose practicality over what truly fulfils them. These are the people you hear later in life regret “the other road” not taken. The other road was their true nature, but it was pushed aside “to pay the bills.”
Next up is Venus. Venus is an enemy to the Sun because its influence causes the Sun to believe that fulfilment comes not through fulfilling its destiny, but in helping others fulfil theirs. This is easy to see in couples where one of the two has turned away from their authentic nature to support the other. In essence, they allow the partner to become their Sun.
This does not need to only happen in a couple relationship. We give away our sun to friends, relatives, or work colleagues. Groupies and super fans are other extreme examples of how this dynamic manifests. In short, such people are living through someone else. As long as that someone is there to live through, they may sustain this dynamic for a while. Eventually, however, the other leaves, either by choice or by death. From the perspective of the Self, either way is a blessing as it offers a chance for the individual to finally live through their own volition.
As always, it’s much better to take our destiny out of the hands of Destiny. 😉
🤗
Warm thoughts and many blessings,
David 🙏🏻
astrologyofjoy.comTaurus/Gemini Birthday?
Claim your free gift.
A one page emailed review highlighting what’s ahead.
Astrology Monday
Taurus Sun:
Transformation through Friendship and Loyalty
20 April—21 May
The Sun in Taurus helps us align our identity with the power of transformation.
In Vedic astrology, the symbol for the nakshatra Krittika, the first constellation of the Moon in Taurus, is symbolised by the razor indicating the power of Taurus to transform through a cutting away of the illusion of materiality. It is the razor’s edge we traverse in Taurus. Ruled by Venus, the ruler of sensuality and external comforts and pleasures, we bring suffering upon us when we seek fulfilment through the senses. The senses allow us to enjoy the world, but fulfilment can only come through Jupiter, our inner guru, grace, and highest intention. Venus is an enemy to Jupiter and when we seek pleasure above what is beneficial, we “sell our soul to the devil”, so-to-speak, and lose the kingdom within. Sun in Aditya Mitra
Before the arrival of the Greeks, the ‘zodiac’ used in India was a 360 degree circle based upon the Sun’s movement (Adityas literally means sons of Aditi, the mother of all). The Aditya corresponding to Taurus is Mitra which relates to friendship, alliances, oaths, contracts, and harmony. Mitra is particularly associated with the life-giving rays of the morning sun symbolising the triumph of light over darkness, of wisdom over sensuality.People born with planets in Mitra, especially Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, and Saturn are loyal partners and friends and seek to make the world a secure and safe place for all.
Important dates (2026+)
Now thru 2026 and beyond
JUL 26 2026: Rahu in Pisces: Loss of boundaries; excessive empathy; heightened creative expression and imagination.
Now thru JUN 30, 2026: Jupiter exalted in Cancer: Heart-centred approach brings rewards when emotions are tied to your good intention and not selfish gain.JAN 26 thru 2039: Neptune in Aries. Tension between acting and visualising disrupts progress.
FEB 14 2026— APR 12 2028: Saturn in Aries: Weakening foundation; supports taking calculated risks. Prudence is fine; obsessively cautious denies needed change.APR 25 2026 — Uranus re-enters Gemini and stays there until 2032. War? Liberation?
Hero’s Journey
The journey of the hero is about the courage to seek the depths; the image of creative rebirth; the eternal cycle of change within us; the uncanny discovery that the seeker is the mystery which the seeker seeks to know. ~ Joseph Campbell,Wise Quotes from Regular Folks
We are the creators of our own destiny. Be it through intention or ignorance, our successes and our failures have been brought on by none other than ourselves.
Garth Stein (1964 — ) best known for his NYT best-selling novel The Art of Racing in the Rain; explores themes of destiny, the present moment, and the bond between humans and animals
The Lunch Date
…is an Oscar-winning short film written and directed by Adam Davidson. It was his thesis project at Columbia University, where fellow student Garth Stein served as producer and editor. The film is a powerful, dialogue-light exploration of assumptions, prejudice, and misperception.
*An ex-military boss I worked for once during a summer job, “Don’t ever assume. You make an ASS out of U and ME.” 😉
(video duration: ~ 10 minutes)
Free and low cost programmes and discounts…
Miracle of Mind! FREE Meditation App!
Recent science shows that even a short amount of time is enough to spark positive neuro-physical changes in your brain. Stick with it, and these quick sessions build up, boosting your mental resilience and overall happiness.
Launched by Sadhguru this past Mahashivratri, Miracle of Mind is a free app to download that empowers you through a daily 7 minute meditation. For more information, follow this link.
Isha flagship programme:
Inner Engineering online. Highly recommended.
Consultations
20% paid bonus for referrals
Astrology is not what you think it is…Forget predictions — they keep you enslaved to fate. Astrology of Joy offers a blueprint for taking charge of your life and living joyfully. Based upon the time-honoured system of astrology practiced in India for thousands of years, Astrology of Joy is inspired by four decades living in ashrams and learning from enlightened beings who taught, “You are more than a body and a mind. You are That!”
Astrology Consultations
Concession/economy…….. £49/hr onlineDesigned for the budget conscious, returning clients, or anyone seeking a review of their current astrological trends and trajectories. Includes 1-hr of pre-session chart analysis. Audio file included.
In-depth consultations.……. £69/hr onlineThese readings include 2 hours of pre-session chart analysis. Audio file included at no charge.:
Relationship/Compatibility
Career/Finances
Health and Wellbeing
Relocation (analyse up to 3 locations)
Spiritual Development
In-depth examination of any area of your choosing
Rahu/Ketu elemental reading
Muhurta: Auspicious date determination for wedding, baby planning, business start up, medical procedures, home purchase, etc.
Optional add-on personally written eBook available for any reading… £49
For more information, visit astrologyofjoy.com/consultations.
About David: Personally certified by Dr. David Frawley, author and founder of the American Institute of Vedic Studies, David has been a professional astrologer for over 30 years. David learned the art and science of Indian astrology while a ten-year resident in the ashram of a realised spiritual master. David guides clients throughout the world on achieving fulfilment in their spiritual and personal lives and wellbeing.
David served as editor of Isha Yoga’s European newsletter for two years, was Vice President of the Rosia Montana Cultural Foundation in Romania, and has a Masters in Archaeology (with Distinction), studying the challenges and issues facing contemporary society from the archaeological perspective. He also wrote and published a parent-child picture book with his brother, Steve (illustrator), about the life of Adiyogi, the first yogi. He currently resides in Scotland.Copyright © 2026 Elemental Astrology, All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is: Elemental Astrology, Burntisland, Scotland
Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe here.
-
Newsletter 14/JULY/2025 Shadow Mind
Astrology Monday! Shadow Mind — the battle that must be fought 😉 View this email in your browser
This Week’s Focus
Uranus and the Shadow Mind
Issue 28 Volume 8 14 July 2025
The psychological rule says that when an inner situation is not made conscious, it happens outside, as fate. That is to say, when the individual remains undivided and does not become conscious of his inner contradictions, the world must perforce act out the conflict and be torn into opposite halves.
~ Carl Jung (1875 – 1961) Swiss psychiatrist and founder of analytical psychologyAstrology Monday:
Just the facts, please!
An American icon from 60s television, hard-boiled detective Joe Friday always insists on “just the facts”.
This week’s no-nonsense forecast:
Mercury Retrograde? Great!
July 18 thru August 11 Mercury goes retrograde in Leo. In astrological circles, Mercury retrograde often finds armchair astrologers wringing their hands and doing special incantations to ward off computer breakdowns and communication meltdowns. No worries! As always, the planets are simply your deeper self trying to get your attention. Mercury in Leo wants you to learn how to gauge people and situations accurately — does the potential in your head match with realistic possibility? Very possibly it does not so step back, don your objectivity lab coat and look again. Now you’re ready to take action!
Saturn Retrograde? No worries!
In Vedic astrology, when a debilitated planet, in this case Saturn in Aries, goes retrograde, an amazing thing happens: it actually can do more good than harm! Cool! Saturn will be retrograde from now thru 28 November. This brings an opportunity to review your plans and fundamental vision; are they realistic? Practical? Supportive of where you want to go? In short, now’s the time to review, review, and review your plans. Tweak where necessary — abandon ship and climb aboard another if the one you are on is sinking.
Ongoing
Uranus in Gemini!
Uranus entered Gemini for four months, giving us a preview of his ways for the next seven years. On November 8, 2025, Uranus exits Gemini and returns to Taurus, then on 26 April, 2026: Uranus re-enters Gemini, beginning the main phase that will last until 2033. Hint: Uranus is is your authentic nature crying to be freed. If you are struggling, it simply means you are not honouring your authenticity. You are living a lie and Uranus wants to put an end to your falsehoods and pretence. Let it show you the way.
Feel like a King?
The final week of this year’s powerful Sun-Jupiter conjunction. The Sun is your King and Jupiter your wise prime minister. Together they create amazing opportunity. This is particularly helpful if you want to launch a new project or path, and especially true for matters relating to home or home business, education, family, and real estate ventures. This combo helps you take the lead and assume roles of authority, but with the wisdom of compassion. In the Aditya of Indra, this time can help you overcome long-term obstacles.
Strengthen your foundation!
Saturn in Aries is a bit like a ship at sea taking on water during a storm. Knowing what to keep and what to throw overboard can be confusing. Seek a safe harbour through the healthy masculine (authenticity and generosity). Act on your loftiest goals and activate your heart chakra through nature, song, art, and devotion. This is not the time for sensuality and sense gratification, but for sensible action and sensitivity.
Quick World View
Mercury retrograde in Leo on the world stage brings forth muddled contracts, rehashing old wounds, and misspeak. Not too different than what usually happens, actually. Nevertheless, it creates some confusion in law and order which prevents the full realisation of what would essentially be good for society. Setbacks for sure, but only temporarily. The good vibe Jupiter/Sun in Cancer is still helping keep our heads above water and, lo and behold, retrograde Saturn is forcing our leaders to review their plans and right the ship.Questions? Send your questions and feedback here. Questions will be answered in future issues as long as they are relevant to a broad audience. Specific questions require a scheduled reading.
Dear wonderful neighbour and
fellow traveller;
This week while doing research on the unconscious, I rediscovered Carl Jung, the imminent Swiss psychiatrist who ultimately broke his collaboration with Sigmund Freud when, in my limited estimation, Jung outgrew the childish fixation Freud had on the importance of the sexual instinct. Jung was simply a much brighter candle than Freud. Perhaps it was his association with the spiritual philosophies of India during his trip to India in 1937-38 — I suspect Jung had always been a bud waiting to blossom in the right soil.
Jung noted how people often have two different personas. For example, one persona at home and a different persona at work, one of which is more authentic than the other. Interestingly, he surmised that this is not a problem if you are aware you are playing a role in the inauthentic one. However, if you are unconscious of your inauthenticity, you invite neuroses. Can our struggles be as simple as this?
The Shadow Mind
This view goes hand in hand with one of Jung’s most well-known hypotheses, that of the shadow mind. According to Jung, the shadow mind is the unconscious aspect of ourselves that contains repressed thoughts, feelings, and impulses we have deemed unacceptable or undesirable. Jung believed that the shadow mind is not solely negative but also contains valuable attributes such as instincts, emotional energy, creativity, and realistic insights we have suppressed. In essence, our shadow mind is our repressed authenticity which is always seeking to get our attention, sometimes through aggressive, self-sabotaging, or even violent behaviour.
Astrology, Ketu, and the Shadow Mind
In Vedic astrology, Ketu (South node) represents your unconscious, those aspects of your authentic nature you have repressed. To escape their feelings of suffocation, disillusionment, and confusion, you seek relief through unconscious choice. Rahu, the North node, represents these unconscious actions and the resulting dead end and suffering you create for yourself.
The Mirror
Jung says we can get hints as to what is suppressed by paying attention to what it is we most criticise in others. In yoga, we informally call this “the mirror theory” which basically cautions that whatever you don’t like in others is simply a reflection of what you don’t like in yourself and what you don’t like in yourself is your repressed authenticity calling out to you for help. When repressed, our authenticity transforms into what we hate the most.
The Cry of the Heart
Vedic astrology points us towards where we are suppressing our authentic nature. Simply look at the sign which holds your Ketu, then the house it occupies by counting the number of signs from the Ascendent. This will tell you where you are keeping your opportunities and circumstances stuck because of past life experiences.
More
There are many layers to this, but doing this simple technique will give you a great start. A little knowledge in this sense does go a long way. Knowing where you are stuck reveals your shadow mind and where you are trying to protect yourself. These areas are where you are micromanaging your life and the reason you struggle. Once you know where these areas are, do what you can to loosen up, relax, and not take life so seriously. It is only ourself who keeps us locked in the cage, but the really crazy reality is we have the key to let ourselves out. We are like the poor man lamenting his misfortune when all the time he has a diamond in his pocket…
Uranus
Fortunately, we have a dear friend coming to visit in Gemini who wants nothing better than to see us embrace our authenticity. He has not been to our house in Gemini since 1949, before must of us were born. Sometimes he gets a bit carried away in his excitement and will throw us into many unexpected situations, but he never creates anything on his own; he simply uses a torch to shine a light on our shadow mind and encourages us do the work with a friendly nudge. He’s going to be a guest for about 7 years — I hope he doesn’t overstay his welcome. We should bend to his will, not the other way around. 😉
In the meantime, examine Ketu and its location in your chart. Then check your pockets. You have the key; you’v’e had it all along. All you need do is use it.
🤗
David 🔆astrologyofjoy.com
In this issue:- Weekly Planning Forecast
- Astrology of Now: The Shadow Mind
- Hero’s Journey: Free App
Shadow Mind Special! Want to know the potential and possibility of Uranus, your “personal authenticity meter”? Contact me here. £45/hr online Astrology Monday
Weekly Planning ForecastSuggestion: match the significations of the following dates to what you wish to accomplish. To plan important events further into the future, contact David for a Muhurtha reading which finds the best date(s) for your specific tasks or goals.Cancer Sun…
The Sun in Cancer, a sign ruled by the Moon, highlights an individual who relies on emotional connection to feel safe and secure. Home and family are important and they tend to lead with their feelings and emotional expression. They exhibit good looks and are friendly and sociable.
21 June — 22 July
Sun in Aditya Indra…
Fun Fact: Zodiac comes from the Greek zodiakos (kyklos) which literally means “circle of little animals” and reveals how astrological knowledge was shared between the cultures of Greece and India beginning in the time of Alexander the Great. For thousands of years before the Greeks, the Vedic culture used a 12-part circle which represented 12 aspects of the Sun. These Adityas offer us fascinating insights into our human potential.
The Aditya that corresponds to the Greek zodiacal sign of Cancer is Indra which symbolises victory and triumph over adversity and challenge. Jupiter does very well here and will be in Indra thru June 2026. When the Sun is in Indra, we are inspired to pick up the banner of right action and address the evils of the world. Patriotism and nationalistic pride is strong here; we want to secure our home, family, and community against the unrighteous. The Sun in Cancer is auspicious and much can be accomplished when the Sun is here.
😊
Important dates (2025 — 2026)
JAN 12 2025 thru summer 2026: Rahu enters Pisces
— Loss of boundaries; excessive empathy; heightened creative expression
MAY 25 — AUG 31: Saturn enters Aries, its sign of debilitation
— Weakening of foundation; supports taking calculated risks
JUN 9 — JUN 30, 2026: Jupiter exalted in Cancer
— Oh, boy! We finally get some help from the good guys!
JUN 17 — AUG 6: Mars in Virgo
— Taking on too many responsibilities; supports fitness programmes; Mars gets confused by so many choices in Virgo. Stay focused on what it is you really want.
JUL 14 — 28 NOV: Saturn retrograde; great time to review your long range plans and vision.
SEP 1 — FEB 13 2026: Saturn in Pisces
— Tendency towards fear-based decisions; loss of boundaries; strong creative ideas
FEB 14 2026— APR 12 2028: Saturn in Aries
— Weakening of foundation; supports taking calculated risks
Astrology of Now
Disclaimer: I hold no party affiliation and have supported both sides of the aisle with my vote. My aim is to offer you an unbiased perspective of world events through the lens of archaeology, astrology, and yoga. As an extra bonus, I hope to widen your horizons. 🤭😁The Shadow Mind
Spiritual practice brings the clarity you need…
The challenge
Carl Jung on the challenge we face when exposing the Shadow Mind:
This confrontation is the first test of courage on the inner way, a test sufficient to frighten off most people, for the meeting with ourselves belongs to the more unpleasant things that can be avoided so long as we can project everything negative into the environment. But if we are able to see our own shadow and can bear knowing about it, then a small part of the problem has already been solved: we have at least brought up the personal unconscious. The shadow is a living part of the personality and therefore wants to live with it in some form. It cannot be argued out of existence or rationalised into harmlessness.
Clarity or courage?
Sadhguru on the need for clarity:
If there is total clarity, there is no need for courage, because clarity will carry you across.
The purpose and importance of practice
Sadhguru on the need to address our energies through practice;
If you want to consciously move your hand, you can. If you want to move your mind somewhere, you can do that too, to some extent. Similarly, you can move your emotions. Can you move your energies? No. We do the practices so that that part of your life begins to move too. If everything moves – your body, your mind, your emotions – but your energies don’t move, you still don’t go anywhere. The (spiritual) practice is to loosen that dimension of your life which is normally not in your hands…
You have to remind yourself. Otherwise, your thought, your emotion, your physicality keeps getting entangled with just about everything around you. If you are just trying to pump up your energies, it won’t go anywhere because three wheels are stuck, one wheel is spinning. So, every day, every hour, or why not every minute, remind yourself. It just takes ten seconds.
Practice brings authenticity
Ekhart Tolle on becoming subtle:
It takes practice to hear your true desires. Your passion will often come as a whisper or serendipitous event that reminds you of what’s important and what makes you happy.Hero’s Journey
The journey of the hero is about the courage to seek the depths; the image of creative rebirth; the eternal cycle of change within us; the uncanny discovery that the seeker is the mystery which the seeker seeks to know. ~ Joseph Campbell,
Sadhguru on finding a spiritual teacher:
You seek the beyond not for solace but for liberation, to become free from everything that you are right now. So, if you are seeking a guru for solace, there are many. If you are seeking a guru for liberation, then if you sit with him you feel threatened, you want to run away from him but at the same time, you don’t want to leave him for a moment.
If you constantly feel threatened by him, at the same time you want to be with him, that means he’s a good guru for you. If you are very comfortable with him, he is a no good guru for you. You must be constantly uncomfortable with him; at the same time, you long to be with him, that is a good prescription for you.True gurus are those who have reached the highest expression of human potential and help us find the way. I most often quote Sadhguru and highlight his practices and events simply because he is arguably the most publicly available guru today. Initially, his mission on Earth was to install the Dhyanalinga, an energy form not seen for over 2000 years, but something wonderful happened after his body recovered from the enormous energy drain of such a profound process: he decided to stick around to touch the lives of as many as possible… 😉 Free and low cost programmes and discounts…
Miracle of Mind! FREE Meditation App!
Recent science shows that even a short amount of time is enough to spark positive neuro-physical changes in your brain. Stick with it, and these quick sessions build up, boosting your mental resilience and overall happiness.
Launched by Sadhguru this past Mahashivratri, Miracle of Mind is a free app to download that empowers you through a daily 7 minute meditation. For more information, follow this link.
ConsultationsBecome an Astro Affiliate! Receive 20% cashback on any referrals.
Visit astrologyofjoy.com/special-offer for more information.
What is the Astrology of Joy? It’s a tool for finding your bliss and living a joyful life. It’s a gentle “push” to get you back on the right track. Based upon the time-honoured system of astrology practiced in India for thousands of years, Astrology of Joy is inspired by David’s four decades living in ashrams, seeking truth, and learning from enlightened beings who taught, “You are more than a body and a mind. You are That!”
Recommended Schedule
1. One-time Natal in-depth overview:
£195… 2hr online reading. Includes £29 add on eBook and session audio file.
2. Varshaphala (6-month Solar return)
£95… 2hr online reading. Optional: £29 add on eBook. includes session audio file.
3. Rahu/Ketu Elemental Reading
£95… 2hr online reading. Optional: £29 add on eBook. Includes session audio file.
4. Specialised Consultations:
£95… 2hr online reading. Optional: £29 add on eBook. Includes session audio file.- Relationship/Compatibility
- Career/Finances
- Health and Wellbeing
- Spiritual Development
- In-depth examination of any area of your choosing
5. Muhurta Consultation
Auspicious date determination for wedding, pregnancy, business start up, surgery, etc
£79 for three month analysis. Months do not need to be successive.
All readings are recorded as an MP3 file for your continued reference.
Financial concessions available.
For more information, visit astrologyofjoy.com/consultations.About David: Personally certified by Dr. David Frawley, author and founder of the American Institute of Vedic Studies, David has been a professional astrologer for over 30 years. David learned the art and science of Indian astrology while a ten-year resident in the ashram of a realised spiritual master. David guides clients throughout the world on achieving everyday fulfilment in their spiritual and personal goals, relationships, and wellbeing.
David served as editor of Isha Yoga’s European newsletter for two years, was Vice President of the Rosia Montana Cultural Foundation in Romania, and has a Masters in Archaeology (with Distinction), studying the challenges and issues facing contemporary society from the archaeological perspective. He also wrote and published a parent-child picture book with his brother, Steve (illustrator), about the life of Adiyogi, the first yogi. He currently resides in Burntisland, Scotland, where he serves on the board of the Burntisland Harbour Access Trust helping maintain public access to the historically significant harbour.Copyright © 2025 Elemental Astrology, All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is: Elemental Astrology, Burntisland, Scotland
Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe here.
-
Newsletter 7/JULY/2025 Uranus in Gemini — War?
Astrology Monday! Uranus in Gemini — War? 🤔 View this email in your browser
This Week’s Focus
Guru Moon
Issue 27 Volume 8 07 July 2025
It is on this day, for the very first time in the history of humanity, that human beings were reminded they are not a fixed life. If they are willing to strive, every door in the existence is open. ~ Sadhguru, yogi, mystic, humanitarian, NYT bestselling author
More information: https://isha.sadhguru.org/in/en/guru-purnima
Join Livestream: 8:30AM CST/2:30PM BST/ https://www.youtube.com/live/b0vOadWiBQgAstrology Monday:
Just the facts, please!
An American icon from 60s television, hard-boiled detective Joe Friday always insists on “just the facts”.
This week’s no-nonsense forecast:
Guru Moon
See below (Moon Planner).
Uranus in Gemini!
Oh, boy! Strap yourself in — not too tight, though. You might want to bail out. 😄
On 7 July, 2025 (today), Uranus enters Gemini for four months, giving us a preview of the energy that will contribute to the next seven years. On November 8, 2025, Uranus exits Gemini and returns to Taurus, then on 26 April, 2026: Uranus re-enters Gemini, beginning the main phase that will last until 2033. Hint: Uranus can signify unexpected challenge mostly because we do not understand what Uranus represents. It is your own higher Self pushing you to be authentic. Even more so during this time, if you are struggling, it simply means you are not honouring your authentic nature. You are living a lie and Uranus wants to put an end to your falsehoods and pretence. Are you up to the challenge? I think, ‘Yes!’
Feel like a King?
The Sun-Jupiter conjunction is a powerful combination when you can make great strides towards embracing your authentic nature. The Sun is your King and Jupiter your wise prime minister. Together they create amazing opportunity. This is particularly helpful if you want to launch a new project or path, and especially true for matters relating to home or home business, education, family, and real estate ventures. This combo helps you take the lead and assume roles of authority, but with the wisdom of compassion. In the Aditya of Indra, this time can help you overcome long-term obstacles.
Strengthen your foundation!
Saturn in Aries is a bit like a ship at sea taking on water during a storm. Knowing what to keep and what to throw overboard can be confusing. Seek a safe harbour through the healthy masculine (authenticity and generosity). Act on your loftiest goals and activate your heart chakra through nature, song, art, and devotion. This is not the time for sensuality and sense gratification, but for sensible action and sensitivity.
Quick World View
While the world gets hammered by Mars in Virgo (disagreement on which way to go), Saturn in Aries (acts like a wrecking crane to faulty vision), and Uranus in Gemini (revolution) which are stirring the pot from every direction, the Sun and Jupiter continue to offer hope and beneficial results. Expect ups and downs, but don’t believe unfounded rhetoric, especially from those who appear as sheep in wolf’s clothing. Do your homework and seek out information from sources on the OPPOSITE end of the spectrum from where you are. If you do, you will undoubtedly find you are moving towards centre and making better choices for you and your loved ones. As an optimist, I see great opportunity. 😊Questions? Send your questions and feedback here. Questions will be answered in future issues as long as they are relevant to a broad audience. Specific questions require a scheduled reading.Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. John 14:6
Dear wonderful neighbour and fellow traveller;
I began my search at the age of ten for someone who could introduce me to God. Jesus was no longer in the flesh, so my prerequisite was that this person needed to know God personally. I was not interested in theory or assumption or faith. Faith was for those who did not know. I yearned to know, so I needed to find one who themselves knew God.
Though my quest was not fulfilled until after I turned 21, the process of seeking eventually brought to me an enlightened being who opened the door and showed me the way. Up to that point, as far back as I can remember, a nightmare had visited me each month. It was always the same: I would find myself walking down a dark, foreboding corridor with a door at the end. I did not want to open this door under any circumstances. I did not want to see what was behind the door — I was terrified — but my hand always reached for the knob…
I always awoke in a cold sweat just before the door opened, my heart pounding wildly, looking across the room in the darkness at my older brother’s bed for assurance. Three months after I met my guru, I again had this dream only this time I had the courage to open the door at the end of the hall. What I experienced was Love… nothing but pure, unattached, unconditional Love which filled every part of my being. I woke up absolutely ecstatic. Never again did I have that nightmare. Indeed, I have never had any nightmares since. That was several decades ago. 😉
Guru Purnima marks the brightest full moon of the year and is the day celebrated in India that celebrates the day Adiyogi, the first yogi, shared his knowledge with seven sages over 15,000 years ago (though Sadhguru has informally told us it is closer to 40,000 years). It was from Adiyogi that the yogic sciences first originated and from his directive this knowledge was imparted across the world and became the basis for all spiritual paths.
Sadhguru tells us that Adiyogi had no desire to teach, but on this day, his compassion overflowed; he was compelled to become a teacher, a guru:
On Guru Purnima, there is a certain alliance between the Moon and the planets which creates a receptivity in people to that dimension which we refer to as the guru… So, this month is the month of Grace. Grace is like manure for growth, that a human being can catapult himself to another dimension of existence, capability and possibility.
One way to open the door to grace is to spend time in the company of those who have made friends with God. To this aim, Sadhguru is offering a live webcast 10 July. For more information, visit this page.
During my readings, I always tell my clients that Vedic astrology is a great tool, but without a guru, a spiritual master who has climbed the highest peak, like any tool, astrology is limited. You may have the best Italian paints, canvas, and brushes, but without an accomplished teacher, your efforts will be limited.
One of the great mysteries is though we have a teacher for everything else in life, we are hesitant to find one who will show us the mysteries of Life and Love, the nature of our existence. May this Guru Purnima remove all your hesitancy and bring to you the one who will show you across the ocean of worldy existence.
🤗
David 🔆astrologyofjoy.com
In this issue:- Weekly Planning Forecast
- Astrology of Now: Uranus Revolution
- Hero’s Journey: Free App
7-yr Uranus Special! If you would like to know the potential and possibility of your personal Boundary Buster for the next 3 years, contact me here. £45/hr online Astrology Monday
Weekly Planning ForecastSuggestion: match the significations of the following dates to what you wish to accomplish. To plan important events further into the future, contact David for a Muhurtha reading which finds the best date(s) for your specific tasks or goals.Cancer Sun…
The Sun in Cancer, a sign ruled by the Moon, highlights an individual who relies on emotional connection to feel safe and secure. Home and family are important and they tend to lead with their feelings and emotional expression. They exhibit good looks and are friendly and sociable.
21 June — 22 July
Sun in Aditya Indra…
Fun Fact: Zodiac comes from the Greek zodiakos (kyklos) which literally means “circle of little animals” and reveals how astrological knowledge was shared between the cultures of Greece and India beginning in the time of Alexander the Great. For thousands of years before the Greeks, the Vedic culture used a 12-part circle which represented 12 aspects of the Sun. These Adityas offer us fascinating insights into our human potential.
The Aditya that corresponds to the Greek zodiacal sign of Cancer is Indra which symbolises victory and triumph over adversity and challenge. Jupiter does very well here and will be in Indra thru June 2026. When the Sun is in Indra, we are inspired to pick up the banner of right action and address the evils of the world. Patriotism and nationalistic pride is strong here; we want to secure our home, family, and community against the unrighteous. The Sun in Cancer is auspicious and much can be accomplished when the Sun is here.
😊
Moon Planner
Has the Moon got you hurried and harried?
No worries! The Moon represents the feminine and your capacity to receive and recognise the resources you have available to fulfil your emotional needs. Too often, we get distracted with what is not ours and miss out on the available opportunity, experiencing disappointment and disillusionment, or worse, we become like my hairy friend, Monsieur Lou Garou. 🤭
GURU PURNIMA
Thursday, 10 July: Full Moon in Capricorn (21:36 BST )
Full moons magnify your emotional mind, good or bad. There is science behind this: just as full moons create higher than usual tides on earth, so there is a natural draw of fluids into your brain. Full moons are a great opportunity to access profound emotions through spiritual practice and alone time bringing you deeper insights and intuition.
This Capricorn Full Moon packs a powerful influence from Jupiter and the Sun in Cancer. The Moon represents needs and Jupiter/Sun energises the inner urge to benefit those around you through your talents and abilities. Watch yourself closely for hints as to your authentic nature. Only through your authenticity are you able to live a fulfilling life.
Yes, it is true emotions are heightened on full moons, but emotions are not meant to destroy; they are part of nature’s way of enhancing life. Yet, every day our emotions rain destruction upon ourselves and the world because we allow the survival mechanism to influence their expression. Contrary to popular opinion, life is not ultimately about “me”; life is a multiplayer game where the only rule is to express yourself as a piece of the Cosmos. This is not selfish; it’s about experiencing yourself as a part of the whole while unabashedly playing your role as God intended.
The bright half of the moon cycle is an opportunity to expand your capacity for emotional expression in a healthy way using the resources available to you. Capricorn is the sign that relates to learning to listen — to God, to wise teachers, to yourself. Allow yourself to be open to Guru’s Grace which shines upon everyone equally like the Sun, whether you have a guru or not. Only when we allow clouds to gather in our mind does the sunlight get diminished.
Mother’s milk from mother Moon: Gurumayi of the Siddha lineage once shared with us two practical ways to imbibe the full moon energy. The first is to simply go somewhere quiet and gaze at the beauty of the full moon for an extended time paying close attention to the source of the feelings that arise within you. Another is to leave milk in a clear, covered glass overnight in a window sill where it will catch the full moon’s rays. In the morning, consume the milk. Milk easily absorbs positive energy as well as neutralise negative energy, Milk is also used to purify jewellery of negative energies or unhelpful karmas that may be associated with the jewellery maker or previous owners. You can also do this as a jewellery rejuvenator every six months or so to keep your jewellery energetically fresh. It is best to use organic whole milk, raw if possible.Important dates (2025 — 2026)
JAN 12 thru summer 2026: Rahu enters Pisces joining Saturn and Neptune
— Loss of boundaries; heightened creative expression
MAY 25 — AUG 31: Saturn enters Aries, its sign of debilitation
— Weakening of foundation; supports taking calculated risks
JUN 9 — JUN 30, 2026: Jupiter exalted in Cancer
— Oh, boy! We finally get some help from the good guys!
JUN 17 — AUG 6: Mars in Virgo
— Taking on too many responsibilities; supports fitness programmes; Mars gets confused by so many choices in Virgo. Stay focused on what it is you really want.
SEP 1 — FEB 13 2026: Saturn in Pisces
— Tendency towards fear-based decisions; loss of boundaries; strong creative ideas
FEB 14 2026— APR 12 2028: Saturn in Aries
— Weakening of foundation; supports taking calculated risks
Astrology of Now
Disclaimer: I hold no party affiliation and have supported both sides of the aisle with my vote. My aim is to offer you an unbiased perspective of world events through the lens of archaeology, astrology, and yoga. As an extra bonus, I hope to widen your horizons. 🤭😁How do you spell revolution?
U-R-A-N-U-S
Consider the following:
The American Revolution began on 19 April, 1775 with Uranus at 0 degrees Gemini. The American Civil War began in 1861, during a period when Uranus was at 9 degrees Gemini and America entered World War II in 1941 just after Uranus entered Gemini.
Do you see the pattern? When Uranus is in Gemini, the United States is at war. A bit alarming considering Uranus moves into Gemini today…
Skeptics argue that the US has been at war while Uranus has been in every sign of the zodiac:
War of 1812 (1812-1815): Uranus is in Scorpio
Mexican war (1846-1848): Uranus in Aries
Spanish-American War (1898): Uranus is in Sagittarius
World War I (1917-1918): Uranus in Aquarius
Korean War (1950-1953): Uranus in Cancer
Vietnam War (1959-1975): Uranus in Leo, Virgo, and Libra
Gulf War (1990-1991): Uranus in Capricorn
War in Afghanistan (2001-2021): Uranus in Aquarius, Pisces, Aries, Taurus
Iraq War (2003-2011): Uranus in Pisces, Aries, Taurus
What piques the interest, however, is when you consider Uranus and the kind of conflict in which the US was involved. Uranus, a planet that traditionally represents revolution, was in Gemini during the American Revolution which heralded the rise of democracy and government by the people, a radical idea at the time. Moving to the American Civil War, this was basically a revolution that established the power of the federal republic over state’s rights with the slavery issue serving as the powder keg. If the South had triumphed, there would have been two countries instead of one which would have profoundly effected future events. World War II drew the United States out of the 1930s Depression and eventually established the US as a world power. This period also saw the beginning of the Anthropocene period marked by the atomic bomb developed by the US.
The point I am highlighting is that each time Uranus occupied Gemini since its founding, the United States was involved in a major conflict that had global implications. Three times Uranus occupied Gemini since its founding and three times America has been at war. Should we be concerned?
As always, I want to emphasise that astrology is a system of probabilities based upon past karmic tendencies. In order to accurately ascertain the karmic impetus of a nation, we need to consider many variables like national tendencies based upon the nation’s birth chart. In this particular case, we must also consider where the other planets were at the time of Uranus in Gemini, especially Saturn (death and destruction) and Mars (conflict and war). Even if everything points to war, to pinpoint timing one should consider the birth charts of the rulers of the nations at conflict. Other things to consider is current solar activity and the planetary period (Vimshottari).
I will keep you updated as I look deeper into Uranus in Gemini. I have already mentioned that Saturn in Aries has me concerned since Saturn represents instability and for the US, conflict coming from the West (China?). Solar activity as I have pointed out is unexpectedly high and corresponds to historical events, both difficult and revolutionary.
As it is, one bright spot is that an anti-war president was elected in the United States, so it would seem that if the US went to war, it would be because it was pushed into a corner much like how the US entered WWII after the surprise attack on Pearl Harbour in December 1941. Of course, there is compelling evidence that the ‘surprise’ was not such a surprise, instead allowed to happen so that the isolationist US DID go to war. Many economists believe FDR’s economic policies in the 1930s actually prolonged the Depression and it was the US entry into World War II that pulled the US out of the economic abyss. Planned? 🤔
Such conspiracies are better left for another day and another forum. We’ll stick to planetary shenanigans which seem to be quite prolific these days. 😁Hero’s Journey
The journey of the hero is about the courage to seek the depths; the image of creative rebirth; the eternal cycle of change within us; the uncanny discovery that the seeker is the mystery which the seeker seeks to know. ~ Joseph Campbell,
There are more fake guides, teachers in the world than stars. The real guide is the one who makes you see your inner beauty, not the one who wants to be admired and followed. ~~ Shams Tabriz (1185–1248) Sufi poet, guru of RumiTrue gurus are those who have reached the highest expression of human potential and help us find the way. I most often quote Sadhguru and highlight his practices and events simply because he is arguably the most publicly available guru today. Initially, his mission on Earth was to install the Dhyanalinga, an energy form not seen for over 2000 years, but something wonderful happened after his body recovered from the enormous energy drain of such a profound process: he decided to stick around to touch the lives of as many as possible… 😉 Free and low cost programmes and discounts…
Miracle of Mind! FREE Meditation App! 
Recent science shows that even a short amount of time is enough to spark positive neuro-physical changes in your brain. Stick with it, and these quick sessions build up, boosting your mental resilience and overall happiness.
Launched by Sadhguru this past Mahashivratri, Miracle of Mind is a free app to download that empowers you through a daily 7 minute meditation. For more information, follow this link.
ConsultationsBecome an Astro Affiliate! Receive 20% cashback on any referrals.
Visit astrologyofjoy.com/special-offer for more information.
What is the Astrology of Joy? It’s a tool for finding your bliss and living a joyful life. It’s a gentle “push” to get you back on the right track. Based upon the time-honoured system of astrology practiced in India for thousands of years, Astrology of Joy is inspired by David’s four decades living in ashrams, seeking truth, and learning from enlightened beings who taught, “You are more than a body and a mind. You are That!”
Recommended Schedule
1. One-time Natal in-depth overview:
£95… 2hr online reading. Optional: £29 add on eBook.
2. NEW! Varshaphala (6-month Solar return)
£95… 2hr online reading. Optional: £29 add on eBook.
3. Rahu/Ketu Elemental Reading
£79… 2hr online reading. Optional: £29 add on eBook.
4. Specialised Consultations:
£79… 2hr online reading. Optional: £29 add on eBook.- Relationship/Compatibility
- Career/Finances
- Health and Wellbeing
- Spiritual Development
- In-depth examination of any area of your choosing
5. Muhurta Consultation
Auspicious date determination for wedding, pregnancy, business start up, surgery, etc
£29 per month analysis; £60 for three month analysis. Months do not need to be successive.
All readings are recorded as an MP3 file for your continued reference.
Financial concessions available.
For more information, visit astrologyofjoy.com/consultations.About David: Personally certified by Dr. David Frawley, author and founder of the American Institute of Vedic Studies, David has been a professional astrologer for over 30 years. David learned the art and science of Indian astrology while a ten-year resident in the ashram of a realised spiritual master. David guides clients throughout the world on achieving everyday fulfilment in their spiritual and personal goals, relationships, and wellbeing.
David served as editor of Isha Yoga’s European newsletter for two years, was Vice President of the Rosia Montana Cultural Foundation in Romania, and has a Masters in Archaeology (with Distinction), studying the challenges and issues facing contemporary society from the archaeological perspective. He also wrote and published a parent-child picture book with his brother, Steve (illustrator), about the life of Adiyogi, the first yogi. He currently resides in Burntisland, Scotland, where he serves on the board of the Burntisland Harbour Access Trust helping maintain public access to the historically significant harbour.Copyright © 2025 Elemental Astrology, All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is: Elemental Astrology, Burntisland, Scotland
Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe here.
-
Newsletter 16/JUNE/2025 Saturn Debt, Jupiter Gift
Astrology Monday! Saturn’s Debt; Jupiter’s Gift 🤗 View this email in your browser
This Week’s Focus
Saturn’s Debt; Jupiter’s Gift
Issue 25 Volume 8 16 June 2025
The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.~~ Martin Luther King Jr. (1929 – 1968) American Baptist minister and civil rights activist
Image Credit:© 1999 US Postal ServiceAstrology Monday:
Just the facts, please!
An American icon from 60s television, hard-boiled detective Joe Friday always insists on “just the facts”.
This week’s no-nonsense forecast:
Saturn square Jupiter in Cancer ends signalling expansion
Saturn ends its square of Jupiter on 21 June allowing Jupiter to fully manifest its expansion and optimism through next summer.
If your sun-sign is Aries, Cancer, Leo, Scorpio, Sagittarius, or Pisces, much progress can be made through the higher emotions and sense of home.
If your sun-sign is Taurus, Gemini, Virgo, Libra, Capricorn, or Aquarius, greed can masquerade as worthy ambition. Remain focused on what is good for all.
Summer Solstice 21 June 3:42 am GMT
The Summer Solstice is a time when we begin the shift towards less light and more darkness. Sound troubling? No worries! This heralds a wonderful time of the year to do spiritual practices because this period is “in your hands” — your choice, your effort. As Sadhguru says: Watering and putting manure to a plant is important. Flowers will come as a consequence of that. It is not our doing. This is just like that. These six months are the sadhana pada and this time is important because now you can do the right things. If you do the right things, when the time to harvest comes, the right kind of harvest will come.
Choose expansion over survival; courage over fear
Saturn’s foray into Aries creates a bumpy road. Our need to survive diminishes Jupiter’s brilliance and optimism. Allow enthusiasm to guide necessary choices, not your pain body, worry, or concern. Prudence is good; anxiety not. Saturn in Aries can bring needed change. Look below the surface of life events. The deeper you go, the clearer it is.
Strengthen your foundation
Saturn in Aries is a bit like a ship at sea taking on water during a storm. Knowing what to keep and what to throw overboard can be confusing. Seek a safe harbour through the healthy masculine (authenticity and generosity). Act on your loftiest goals and activate your heart chakra through nature, song, art, and devotion. This is not the time for sensuality and sense gratification, but for sensible action and sensitivity.
Quick World View
Expect more turmoil in the world as good intentions (Jupiter) meet resistance (Saturn). The great mystery is why so many genuinely good people set aside their common sense and objectivity and express their individual choice like a lemming jumping over the cliff with a thousand others. Group-think not only causes a poverty of consciousness, it can destroy whole nations, even the world. Jupiter in Cancer thru 2026 then in Leo thru 2027 offers the chance that, despite the tribalism of the masses, clear heads will prevail. Expect more turbulence as society attempts to rebuild itself after decades of disastrous policies. Whether it leads to breakthroughs or breakdowns depends in large measure upon how clearly we, the individual, see the world… HINT: things are rarely what they seem. 😊Questions? Send your questions and feedback here. Questions will be answered in future issues as long as they are relevant to a broad audience. Specific questions require a scheduled reading.Slavery is slavery. The chain of gold is quite as bad as the chain of iron.
~ Swami Vivekananda (1863 — 1902) self-realised yogi who lectured in America in 1893
Dear wonderful neighbour and fellow traveller;
This week, Juneteenth (June 19th) is celebrated in America to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States. Juneteenth traces its roots to June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to inform enslaved African Americans of their freedom. To its credit, the United Kingdom gave full emancipation to its slaves in 1838, nearly 30 years before America. Yet, it must be asked, “How many of us are truly free?”
Saints, sages, and Siddhas from all traditions are very clear: the experience of freedom arises from within and has nothing to do with external circumstances. This means a prisoner who knows the source of his existence knows freedom whereas the billionaire who has every desire fulfilled but is ignorant of his divinity lives in the chains of his own making. For the astrologer who understands the nature of both, he considers the difficult chart a blessing and the comfortable chart a curse. It’s only through the smelter’s fire that ore reveals the gold.
Saturn and Jupiter each have a role to play in our unfoldment: Saturn is the “hard knocks” of life which unexpectedly befall us. Yet, Saturn is a stern schoolmaster who believes in us more than we do. Saturn is our karma manifested and through the expansive eye of Jupiter are we able to discern the rhyme and reason in the challenge. Jupiter is the compassionate god who grants understanding and wisdom and when we allow Jupiter to fully manifest in our life, we prosper both materially and spiritually.
Is there a rhyme and reason? 🤔
In life, terrible things happen. Nevertheless, as an old astrologer-colleague once said to me, “Pain is obligatory; suffering is optional.” As difficult as it seems in those darkest moments, something eternal within your own being is calling to you to let go everything you have known to be true. Only in the space created when something leaves, will you find your answer and that answer will be in what comes in to fill the void.
Life will give you whatever experience is most helpful for the evolution of your consciousness. How do you know this is the experience you need? Because this is the experience you are having at the moment.
― Eckhart Tolle, A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose
As hard as it seems, I believe in you. You got this. You really do.
🤗
David 🔆astrologyofjoy.com
In this issue:- Weekly Planning Forecast
- Astrology of Now
- Hero’s Journey: Free App
Saturn Special! If you would like to know the potential and possibility of your personal Boundary Buster for the next 3 years, contact me here. £45/hr online Astrology Monday
Weekly Planning ForecastSuggestion: match the significations of the following dates to what you wish to accomplish. To plan important events further into the future, contact David for a Muhurtha reading which finds the best date(s) for your specific tasks or goals.Cancer Sun…
The Sun in Cancer, a sign ruled by the Moon, highlights an individual who relies on emotional connection to feel safe and secure. Home and family are important and they tend to lead with their feelings and emotional expression. They exhibit good looks and are friendly and sociable.
21 June — 22 July
Sun in Aditya Indra…
Fun Fact: Zodiac comes from the Greek zodiakos (kyklos) which literally means “circle of little animals” and reveals how astrological knowledge was shared between the cultures of Greece and India beginning in the time of Alexander the Great. For thousands of years before the Greeks, the Vedic culture used a 12-part circle which represented 12 aspects of the Sun. These Adityas offer us fascinating insights into our human potential.
The Aditya that corresponds to the Greek zodiacal sign of Cancer is Indra which symbolises victory and triumph over adversity and challenge. Jupiter does very well here and will be in Indra thru June 2026. When the Sun is in Indra, we are inspired to pick up the banner of right action and address the evils of the world. Patriotism and nationalistic pride is strong here; we want to secure our home, family, and community against the unrighteous. The Sun in Cancer is auspicious and much can be accomplished when the Sun is here.
☺️
Important upcoming dates (2025)
JAN 12 thru summer 2026: Rahu enters Pisces joining Saturn and Neptune
— Loss of boundaries; heightened creative expression
MAY 25 — AUG 31: Saturn enters Aries, its sign of debilitation
— Weakening of foundation; supports taking calculated risks
JUN 9 thru Jun 21: Saturn squares Jupiter
— Causes tension between what to embrace and what to let go.
JUN 9 — JUN 30, 2026: Jupiter exalted in Cancer
— Oh, boy! We finally get some help from the good guys!
JUN 17 — AUG 6: Mars in Virgo
— Taking on too many responsibilities; supports fitness programmes; Mars gets confused by so many choices in Virgo. Stay focused on what it is you really want.
SEP 1 — FEB 13 2026: Saturn in Pisces
— Tendency towards fear-based decisions; loss of boundaries; strong creative ideas
FEB 14 2026— APR 12 2028: Saturn in Aries
— Weakening of foundation; supports taking calculated risks
Astrology of Now
Disclaimer: I hold no party affiliation and have supported both sides of the aisle with my vote. My aim is to offer you an unbiased perspective of world events through the lens of archaeology, astrology, and yoga.Saturn’s Wild West Show
“Fear’s just another critter in the wild—learn to ride it or it’ll throw you.”
Israel and Iran… ICE and LA… Peacekeepers and activists clashing across the globe… a volcano in Sicily and a medium-sized earthquake in California… even a seismic shift in the UK: PM Starmer announced a national inquiry into the UK grooming gangs after months of stonewalling! On top of it all, after a quiet spring, the sun’s solar activity has reawakened. What’s going on? 🤔
As mentioned in earlier issues, the world is politically and energetically unstable. Business as usual has given way to a Wild West show that would make Wild Bill Hickok proud. As my mother used to tell us, “Round and round it goes. Where it stops, nobody knows!”
All in all, it is simply life unfolding according to individual karma, and individual karma brought together in a single moment is global karma. The important consideration to remember is how you have complete control over your inner experience. Pain is a necessary part of life; suffering is not.
Embrace spiritual knowledge. It’s the only way. Everything else you attempt will be like plugging a boat full of holes with your fingers — soon you run out of fingers! The Summer Solstice is a good time to start. Jupiter in Cancer is your method. Cancer is your higher emotions: love, gratitude, compassion, ecstasy. As with everything else, you must practice the methods shown by the spiritual pioneers before you. They will show you how to get from point A to point B in the least amount of time. The point is, practice makes perfect. Still, remember what the American football coach Vince Lombardi told his players:
“Practice does not make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect.” The meaning for us…?
Learn from the best — those who are where you want to be. 😉
🙏🏻Hero’s Journey
The journey of the hero is about the courage to seek the depths; the image of creative rebirth; the eternal cycle of change within us; the uncanny discovery that the seeker is the mystery which the seeker seeks to know. ~ Joseph Campbell,True gurus are those who have reached the highest expression of human potential and help us find the way. I most often quote Sadhguru and highlight his practices and events simply because he is arguably the most publicly available guru today. Initially, his mission on Earth was to install the Dhyanalinga, an energy form not seen for over 2000 years, but something wonderful happened after his body recovered from the enormous energy drain of such a profound process: he decided to stick around to touch the lives of as many as possible… 😉 Free and low cost programmes and discounts…
Miracle of Mind! FREE Meditation App!
Recent science shows that even a short amount of time is enough to spark positive neuro-physical changes in your brain. Stick with it, and these quick sessions build up, boosting your mental resilience and overall happiness.
Launched by Sadhguru this past Mahashivratri, Miracle of Mind is a free app to download that empowers you through a daily 7 minute meditation. For more information, follow this link.
ConsultationsBecome an Astro Affiliate! Receive 20% cashback on any referrals.
Visit astrologyofjoy.com/special-offer for more information.
What is the Astrology of Joy? It’s a tool for finding your bliss and living a joyful life. It’s a gentle “push” to get you back on the right track. Based upon the time-honoured system of astrology practiced in India for thousands of years, Astrology of Joy is inspired by David’s four decades living in ashrams, seeking truth, and learning from enlightened beings who taught, “You are more than a body and a mind. You are That!”
Recommended Schedule
1. One-time Natal in-depth overview:
£95… 2hr online reading. Optional: £29 add on eBook.
2. NEW! Varshaphala (6-month Solar return)
£95… 2hr online reading. Optional: £29 add on eBook.
3. Rahu/Ketu Elemental Reading
£79… 2hr online reading. Optional: £29 add on eBook.
4. Specialised Consultations:
£79… 2hr online reading. Optional: £29 add on eBook.- Relationship/Compatibility
- Career/Finances
- Health and Wellbeing
- Spiritual Development
- In-depth examination of any area of your choosing
5. Muhurta Consultation
Auspicious date determination for wedding, pregnancy, business start up, surgery, etc
£29 per month analysis; £60 for three month analysis. Months do not need to be successive.
All readings are recorded as an MP3 file for your continued reference.
Financial concessions available.
For more information, visit astrologyofjoy.com/consultations.About David: Personally certified by Dr. David Frawley, author and founder of the American Institute of Vedic Studies, David has been a professional astrologer for over 30 years. David learned the art and science of Indian astrology while a ten-year resident in the ashram of a realised spiritual master. David guides clients throughout the world on achieving everyday fulfilment in their spiritual and personal goals, relationships, and wellbeing.
David served as editor of Isha Yoga’s European newsletter for two years, was Vice President of the Rosia Montana Cultural Foundation in Romania, and has a Masters in Archaeology (with Distinction), studying the challenges and issues facing contemporary society from the archaeological perspective. He also wrote and published a parent-child picture book with his brother, Steve (illustrator), about the life of Adiyogi, the first yogi. He currently resides in Burntisland, Scotland, where he serves on the board of the Burntisland Harbour Access Trust helping maintain public access to the historically significant harbour.Copyright © 2025 Elemental Astrology, All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is: Elemental Astrology, Burntisland, Scotland
Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe here.
