Please note that I am a sidereal Vedic astrologer and my calculations are based on the sidereal zodiac, Lahiri ayanamsa, not on the tropical system used by most western astrologers.
The waning Moon moved into its last Balsamic phase on Sunday, November 20th. This is the three-to-four day lunar cycle for clearing, cleaning, resting, dreaming, meditating, healing, and “letting go” as we prepare for new beginnings at the New Moon, which will occur on Wednesday, November 23rd at 5:57 PM ET. (Use the World Time Buddy to convert this to your time zone if necessary).
The New Moon will occur in the sidereal sign of Scorpio at around 7 degrees. In the days leading up to the Scorpio New Moon, shadowy themes may emerge, such as those revolving around money, control, personal power, fear, aggression, sorrows, sexuality, or death and rebirth. The energy at this time can feel tamasic, as in heavy, frustrated, worried, stuck, or weary. It’s important to balance any such tendencies by spending time in nature, and with physical activity or healing body work.
The most important focus during the Balsamic Moon is to consciously tune into the divine light within, release our anxieties and negative thoughts, and actively cultivate more positivity, love, joy, forgiveness, and peace. This is even more important now since this waning/New Moon phase mirrors the current waning Sun phase in the northern hemisphere, which occurs as we are moving closer to the winter solstice on December 21. Now the days are growing darker and shorter, and all life force is spiraling deeper and deeper within.
According to Vedic astrology, the darkest lunar day of every month occurring before the culmination of the New Moon is known as the amavasya tithi. It will take place from November 22nd to 23rd (Tuesday evening into Wednesday evening ET). You can use the Drik Panchang to see exactly when amavasya occurs in your location. This will be the last New Moon phase in the Dakshinayana (waning solar half of the year). The next amavasya and New Moon will occur right after the winter solstice in the Uttarayana (waxing solar half of the year), on December 22nd-23rd.
The Sun and Moon represent our higher brain and chakra centers, as well as many psychological, metabolic, and physiological processes. So, these diminishing Sun-Moon cycles can reflect in weariness or emotional vulnerability. Therefore, introspection, awareness, and repose are of utmost importance during this period.
The New Moon will occur in the goal-centered Anurdaha nakshatra, which is known as the “Star of Success.” Therefore, Wednesday night into Thursday this week will be an opportune period for getting organized and setting new intentions for the month ahead. Ruled by Lord Mitra, god of friendship, oaths, and the morning Sun, Anuradha nakshatra symbolizes cooperation, devotion, compassion, and harmony among friends and family. This will be especially beneficial for those who are celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday in the United States.
There are a few other bonuses in this New Moon. First, it occurs in conjunction with the benefic (harmonious) planets Mercury and Venus. Second, and more importantly, Jupiter is stationing direct in a beautiful trine with the Sun and Moon at the same time that the New Moon occurs (well, technically just a few minutes afterward). This is an incredibly auspicious blessing that empowers our New Moon intentions and the lunar month ahead! (In case you missed it, check out my previous article about the Jupiter Direct Station).
I wish you a blessed New Moon and Happy Thanksgiving.
Love your detailed information! Thank you!
EXCELLENT, AS ALWAYS:)...MANY THANKS:)