Chakrapani Vedic Astrology

When reflecting on Chakrapani I often imagine him at his desk, headset on, eyes closed, rocking gently from side to side, totally absorbed in the reading at hand. Maybe he would notice me as I left some tea or hot water, but typically he wouldn't engage. He was in another world which all of us around him understood and respected. When it came to his work, he couldn't be rushed or interfered with - he always treated it with reverence. He was up every day by 6:30, 7 a.m. lat...Continue reading

Remembering Chakrapani

My son, Amiya has arranged for a group of approximately 20 students and 5 professors from his school, Hamilton College to visit the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) in New York City, to experience the current exhibit featuring Chakrapani on Saturday, December 2 at 2pm. We are letting you know about it, in the event that you would like to join us. I am planning to fly in from Los Angeles, joining Richard and Suzanne Cohen (from NY), who introduced Chakrapani to the artist, David H...ammons, the exhibit curator. David and his wife, presently in Japan, have assisted in arranging that a museum curator, Esther Adler, (with expertise on Charles White, one of the featured artists), meet with us at 2:30 pm in the Gallery to welcome us and share her thoughts about this unusual and unique exhibit. If you were hoping to view the exhibit, this will be an ideal time to come. For our part, will be delighted to have you join our celebration of Chakrapani as he is acknowledged by the heady ranks of contemporary art enthusiasts! We will be following up with additional information to all of those who respond here that they are thinking of attending. For those who are interested, we will also be looking for a restaurant where we can have dinner together after our museum visit. We will appreciate knowing who may be thinking of coming, (for a general headcount). That being said, we want to keep things loose to accommodate movable parts and fluctuating circumstances that we're not sure about as yet. So we're not looking to create a rigid plan; but we also do want some kind of a loose plan! Thank you for your interest and wishing you all the best during the upcoming holidays. Warmly, Dianne Brown

We did not have an opportunity to give you a heads-up about Chakrapani being recently featured in an art exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art "MoMA" in New York City. It opened Oct. 7, 2017, curated by the much sought-after, often elusive artist, David Hammons. In August, Hammons and his wife flew in from New York to meet with Chakrapani to tape Chakrapani's astrological readings for the exhibit. In the interview, he asked Chakrapani to reflect on the horoscopes of Leonardo da... Vinci and one of David's mentors, the late artist, Charles White. The exhibit, titled "Charles White-Leonardo da Vinci. Curated by David Hammons," takes up an entire room at MoMA. Chakrapani's audio recordings are included to be listened to with the headphones that are available while viewing the two pieces of art that are on display. The first is an original drawing by Leonardo da Vinci that is on loan from the Queen of England's private collection at Buckingham Palace. The second is a large painting by Charles White titled "The Black Pope." There is also an entire third wall which is covered with numerous enlargements of Chakrapani's astrological readings, including a nameplate acknowledging Chakrapani's contribution to the exhibit. MoMA's press release says: "By presenting their destinies as written in the stars, Hammons shifts our attention from the gallery to the galaxy and asks us to consider commonalities between these two artists." We feel confident in claiming that Chakrapani is the first astrologer to be featured in a contemporary art museum! Chakrapani's audio readings are provided by MoMA when you enter the exhibit along with a large, beautiful program that includes the text of Chakrapani's audio readings, a large image of the two works of art superimposed on a background of stars, as well as a large, beautiful quote from Chakrapani. We hope that for those of you who are in a position, that you will be able to attend the exhibit which runs until January 1, or perhaps you may want to mention it to friends living in the NYC area. It is interesting that this unique opportunity found Chakrapani days before he was taken ill, as it records for posterity his last public interview before his passing. To read more about the exhibit, and listen to the audio recordings online, you can do so here: https://www.moma.org/calendar/exhibitions/3884?locale=en I think that is how we all experienced Chakrapani - his words came from a place of deep inner silence which infused them with unusual power. They calmed and reassured us, or communicated joyfulness and lightness of spirit - whatever was needed. His understanding transcended the intellect - it was something more profound having to do with appreciating the play of life. He had perspective. That perspective helped us face our challenges and appreciate our blessings; it helped us heal. Mourning our loss, but rejoicing in his liberated spirit, Dianne Brown

As you know, our concern regarding the August 21 eclipse has been more for what will unfold over the next few months than the time of the eclipse itself. Much the way your body might react to your heart stopping for several minutes, the consequence is not just the immediate phenomena but the long-term impact to your organ systems and your overall body which becomes apparent with time. We knew to steel ourselves for the possibility of natural disasters. Likewise, to prepare o...urselves for incidents of conflict in the global arena and troubles for leaders throughout the world. We knew that the problems with the Trump administration would accelerate, and that on a personal level that this is a time of general struggle, as well as difficulties for people with health issues. This is the time for these kinds of problems. As with all periods of challenge, the value of foreknowledge is the advantage of taking precautions of one kind or another, or in having a fall-back position or to prepare ourselves for a tough road ahead. We want to do these things in a practical way, not contriving our lives to accommodate our concerns - rather employing some simple measures that will serve as insurance, in case. In some cases, there is nothing to be done and we just need to cultivate an attitude of "acceptance". Acceptance functions on many levels - at its deepest it removes all fear because we have entered into a state of trust in a higher power that provides for all. Challenges herald a time of testing one's ability to accept in the most profound sense. It is a lesson that we all require to advance in our growth. It is not an easy lesson and it doesn't come when we're comfortable and enjoying the high life. An eclipse signals a challenge that we all will face together. It helps to remember that it's not just a meaningless exercise. It's always for the greater good. "To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven." It is all a manifestation of Divine Will and there is always a purpose.

Some simple guidelines for ECLIPSE DAY, tomorrow, August 21: In folklore from around the world there are references to avoiding FOOD, throwing out food prepared... before or on eclipse day, etc. Presumably this reflects customs that evolved out of a concern for the elevated carbon dioxide content in the atmosphere during an eclipse. Generally you can say it is preferable to keep food intake minimal so that the digestive system is not too much engaged during this toxic period. It would be ideal to avoid a heavy meal tonight and to eat lighter on Monday. For those who are so inclined, they can choose to fast; drinking a lot of liquids is always a good idea. The eclipse has a direct effect on our overall HEALTH, strength, and vitality. Anyone who has a health challenge should be especially cautious tomorrow and in the days to follow. But everyone should consider taking it easy; do not unnecessarily tax yourself physically, mentally or emotionally. Avoid starting NEW UNDERTAKINGS as they will not have the environmental support they would otherwise enjoy. However, if you have an unavoidable commitment simply undertake it carefully, looking to adapt to evolving or changing circumstances. Since it is not an ideal time, we basically want to be more alert. Do not worry if there is something you need to do -- just be more careful. If you want to observe the eclipse, be sure to wear proper EYE PROTECTION (not just regular sunglasses) and observe other safety precautions. I have included a link below from NASA that gives more information regarding viewing the eclipse. If you attend an eclipse event they often offer glasses; it appears that supplies are running low in stores. One way or another you do not want to put your eyes at risk. If you are in a position to do so, tomorrow is an ideal day to TAKE IT EASY, to reflect, to meditate or chant, or give expression to feelings of respect or devotion to whatever/whomever you believe in. The basic idea is to step back from one's daily responsibilities and reflect on your appreciation for the grandeur and mystery of life. How one might do this is a personal matter according to one's values and cultural/religious/philosophical orientation. Vedic astrology is always about becoming more conscious -- becoming more aware of the element of choice that is present in any given situation. Becoming more aware of the choices is made possible through foreknowledge -- what you do with it is your part in the play. The play carries on regardless. There will be an eclipse -- it will have certain effects, but that is not your focus because nothing can be done to alter the unfolding of the planetary influences -- only your response is at issue. The workings of the universe are out of view to our human understanding, but we can see that intelligence permeates all of life. The precision with which the heavenly bodies move demonstrates that, and the connection between their movements and human phenomena further underscores the marvelous, incredible nature of the interconnectedness of life. We are all in this together. Good luck and stay safe. For more information: www.vedicastrology.com. To schedule a consultation: 323-962-9911 or [email protected]. Links for Eclipse Glasses: https://www.consumerreports.org//where-to-find-eclipse-gl/ https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov/safety Image Credit: People Magazine

You only need check out the action on the political scene to get a sense of the tone and tenor of our current eclipse period. It started with the LUNAR ECLIPSE on August 7, continuing on this Monday, August 21 with the SOLAR ECLIPSE. This upcoming historic eclipse will significantly amp up an already contentious situation within the upper echelons of the American presidency. As I have previously explained, because the SUN presides over the "ruler" of any given place, it is an... especially difficult period for Trump and his top people because the eclipse occurs directly over the continental United States. Tensions, problems and discord will heighten. Remember, astrologically speaking, the significance of the eclipse is as much about conditions that continue to unfold for up to 6 months thereafter as it is about the eclipse day itself. Shortly I will post some practical considerations regarding how to approach eclipse day. The August 21st eclipse will start in Oregon (10:20 am PST) and culminate in South Carolina at (2:40 pm EDT). For more information: www.vedicastrology.com. To schedule a consultation: 323-962-9911 or [email protected].

The August 21 SOLAR ECLIPSE passes directly over the continental United States, border to border which means the influence is strongest in the states. However,... the eclipse influences life across the globe, to be sure. The DOMAINS over which the SUN PRESIDES, astrologically are the areas of greatest vulnerability. As mentioned previously, one result is with regards to HEALTH - an eclipse can weaken the body for a period of up to 6 months, being especially problematic for those who already have health complaints or are in a weakened state of body for any reason. An eclipse exploits weakness and incites confrontation and conflict. An eclipse has special significance for people in government, notably the AMERICAN PRESIDENT and those in his inner circle, but also heads of government around the world. Because the Sun presides over the "ruler" of any country, the eclipse signals a time of caution for those in power across the global community. This means concern for the health and safety of these individuals as well as the success of their respective undertakings. By the way, beyond TRUMP'S vulnerability as Head of State, his personal horoscope further underscores that this is not a good time for him. In astrology, important themes are often echoed or restated in several ways as is the case here. The LUNAR ECLIPSE of August 7 ushered us into this problematic period which has brought the current NORTH KOREAN situation, and the tensions there will continue to mount. Existing problems on the world stage will be further aggravated; this is the nature of eclipses. Important to remember that an eclipse brings affects that do not necessarily appear immediately, but develop over the subsequent months. There is also the concern for NATURAL DISASTERS around and after the eclipse: climate related issues, earthquakes, hurricanes, flooding, fire, etc. as well as the possibility for accidents. The solar eclipse brings with it the possibility for any of these events for 3-6 months (and even longer), but it does not say that it has to happen. As I've said during troublesome periods in the past - it serves no purpose to become overly concerned about things out of our control. It is a CAUTIONARY PERIOD so we take precautions and then continue living out our days in a natural way. Ultimately, God's will prevails; our part is to remain mindful. Photo: Rahu Devouring the Sun Photo credit: @Bigstockphoto.com/wuttichok

The coming SOLAR ECLIPSE of August 21st has great significance to the American government as well as its leaders. As you may know, SUN represents the king or ...ruler, so a solar eclipse results in a condition where the ruling elite are impacted. An eclipse affects both the health of the ruler and his/her adjuncts as well as the health, vitality and viability of their projects and programs. This effect is strongest at the time of the eclipse, but continues for at least 3 months thereafter, maybe as long as 6 months. As you might imagine, this suggests a problematic period for TRUMP going forward. A solar eclipse is created when the moon travels in front of the sun resulting in a period where it is fully blocking the sun's light. The upcoming eclipse is the FIRST SOLAR ECLIPSE in roughly 40 YEARS, occurring directly over NORTH AMERICA from beginning to end, resulting in a 70 mile wide ribbon from coast to coast where a total eclipse will be visible. A partial eclipse may be seen from anywhere in North America. The eclipse, essentially created by the MOON blocking the SUN thus creates a shadow on the EARTH. It will proceed on its path coast to coast over a period of about an hour and a half resulting in an eclipse that one can view overhead of approximately 2 and half minutes. The visual effect will vary depending on surrounding topography. The August 21st eclipse will start in Oregon (10:20 am PST), and culminate in South Carolina at (2:40 pm EDT). For more information: www.vedicastrology.com. To schedule a consultation: 323-962-9911 or [email protected].

Many people don't realize that an ECLIPSE refers to a period of time that the energy from any given luminary is obstructed. An eclipse of the SUN or the MOON, c...onsidered the life-giving planets, is a most inauspicious period. During either a SOLAR or LUNAR eclipse, these planets' critical energy is blocked and there is an increase in the content of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This has adverse health effects, especially on those of weak constitution or whomever may already be suffering from some health complaint. Depending on the birth chart, some people are more vulnerable to these transits than others. Generally speaking, an eclipse adversely affects the health and vitality of any new undertaking, so we try to avoid starting something significant during the period of an eclipse. Depending on the particulars, the effects of an eclipse lasts between one to three months, with the most intense effects immediately surrounding the actual eclipse date. The upcoming LUNAR ECLIPSE on August 7 is something to keep in mind as you plan your daily affairs, but it is not a singularly noteworthy event. However, the SOLAR ECLIPSE of August 21 is of considerable importance and may have a significant impact on earthly phenomena. For more information: www.vedicastrology.com. To schedule a consultation: 323-962-9911 or [email protected].

The sun has entered Cancer on July 17th where Mars is also situated. Since then aggravation has increased in the various global power centers. That agitation, tension, and struggle continues beyond the Sun’s transit into Leo August 17th because of the upcoming solar eclipses in August. I will address eclipse phenomena in the next post.

If a Vedic Astrologer were to ask "WHAT'S YOUR SIGN?" (which they wouldn't...but if they did) they would likely be referring to your MOON rather than your SUN sign. The single most telling planet in the Vedic system is considered the MOON, viewed as the agent of perception, the lens through which all is filtered. The unique features of the Vedic system allows the Astrologer to evaluate the MOON in great detail and subtly including which of the 27 CONSTELLATIONS (or NAKSHATRAS...) it occupies; in which LUNAR MANSION (house) it is situated; who is the ruler of that HOUSE; who is influencing the MOON by aspect or association; (and more). All of these dimensions to the MOON's placement give valuable insight into the horoscope which is then viewed in the context of the overall planetary influences indicated. From just this brief explanation you can see how useless it is to try to know someone in any meaningful way by virtue of the HOUSE their MOON occupies, (likewise, with regards to the SUN, or any planet, for that matter). But in the case of the MOON, the depth of analysis that is facilitated by the Vedic methodologies demonstrates the critical importance of the MOON to understanding the individual's horoscope. See more

Today marks the end of the caution period I referenced in my last post with regards to a particularly potent, sometimes problematic FULL MOON period the Full Moon having occurred on July 8th. Worth noting, if you're not already aware, the Lunar Cycles have great impact on earthly phenomena. It's very useful to keep an awareness of the lunar phases in planning everyday affairs with relation to the moon in your chart. Immediately following the NEW MOON (New Moon is DARK MOON ...- no light) is the best time to initiate new projects. The first day after the New Moon and during the days preceding the light is steadily growing for 15 days up until the Full Moon. This is the WAXING MOON period. If you begin something at that time, especially in close proximity to the early WAXING MOON you will be in harmony with the thrust of nature that is supporting the blossoming of new life. The FULL MOON is the Moon giving its total light - a time of fullness and abundance, especially with regards to the emotions, (both positive and negative), but the light is diminishing each day thereafter. The diminishing Moon or WANING MOON is not the best time to begin new projects. This is a general rule of thumb that applies to everyone independent of other elements in the Natal or Progressed horoscope. The LUNAR CYCLE is roughly 30 days (29.5): 15 Waxing and 15 Waning. The next NEW MOON is JULY 23rd, 2017. For more information: www.vedicastrology.com. To schedule a consultation: 323-962-9911 or [email protected].