I love how what seems to be a random thought can gather momentum and become yet another life-defining experience....

Hopefully these experiences are more in the positive, expansive realm, and not in the “oh no what was I thinking” realm. Thankfully what I want to reflect on is the former!

I have just completed a 6 week training in Jyotish, Vedic astrology in Rishikesh, India. The knowledge is ancient, dating as far back as 5,000 years. Its origins are traced back to the Vedas, the oldest sacred scriptures of India. The knowledge of the solar system, the constellations and their energetic effects on us here on earth was perceived by the Rishis (seers) and shared orally down through the ages. Remarkably all the calculations that are used in reading a Jyotish birth chart have been verified by our modern day telescopes and formulas. Who doesn’t love an ancient mystery….?

I’ve had a couple of Jyotish readings over the last 5 years and have been amazed by the depth of detail which has shed a light of understanding on the way my life has unfolded and continues to unfold. The Science of Light, as Jyotish is known, is an apt definition.

This profound Vedic science helps you align with your highest potential by revealing the unique planetary placements at the time of your birth. It provides you with a cosmic blueprint. Helping you navigate through cycles of change, shifting your mind state from confusion to clarity and empowering you to move through life’s experiences. And along the way you gain a deeper trust....life is happening for you.

Through a reading personality traits and body type are revealed. But a chart reveals much more than that. Early childhood and family influences can be seen. Career, relationships, wealth, spiritual and religious inclinations and challenges are highlighted. What is shown is not static; it's a dynamic, progressive guide.

As the planets and constellations are constantly moving, the energy we feel on earth constantly changes affecting our lives and our experiences. Think of the effect a full moon can have on our emotional and physiological state. Some of the planets have a fiery, heated, luminous effect, think Mars and the Sun; some have a calming, nurturing, loving and creative effect, think the Moon and Venus; Mercury's placement points to our intellect and the way we communicate; while Saturn and Jupiter will draw challenges to us, growth, expansiveness and wisdom.

The lectures early on left me wondering whether this was going to be an “oh no….” moment. The knowledge, nuances and layers we had to absorb and the calculations of degrees and minutes had my brain in meltdown many times. But I can now say I loved the challenge! Reading the charts for two fellow students in the last couple of days of the course showed the lessons have started to be absorbed….phew…!

As well as the lectures there was daily puja (a ritual to begin the day), meditation and yoga classes. We had a number of fire ceremonies to honour each planet, chanting mantras (a phrase repeated for a set number of repetitions/man[mind] tra[tool]) to connect with their energy. Interestingly emotions were stirred - this is a powerful practice.

There was a group of about 30 studying in person with another group of about 10 online. It was an interesting mix of people with a range of ages and life experiences which added extra flavour. Many laughs were shared, along with some tears, many hugs and encouraging words. New friends made. My life is richer for the experience.

Immersions of any variety will leave long-lasting impressions on your psyche. Being in-situ for 6 weeks for this training in the Himalayas, I have to say has definitely shifted something deep within me. I haven’t been home a week yet, but early reflections have revealed an inner sense of bubbling bliss (as my friend Annemarie would say)! The wisdom shared has made me consider my place in the scheme of things. I have a deeper reverence for life as I know it. There is genuine acceptance for the challenges I’ve faced and the new ones which will show up in the future. Importantly I have a felt sense of guidance and support from an invisible hand on my shoulder.

Jyotish, Vedic Astrology, is more than a horoscope reading. This Vedic knowledge is a roadmap for your soul’s journey, and a foundation for knowing yourself.  It can help you understand your talents, fears, shadows and shine a light on your true purpose.

And yes, my spiritual exploration is front and centre in my chart!

Julie x