Dear Friend,

Astrological texts are invaluable for astrologers, and for centuries, they have been preserved by individuals who understood their importance. This preservation has made it possible for astrologers like myself to study and benefit from these works. Therefore, safeguarding these texts remains essential.

Dr. Jenn Zahrt is doing a remarkable and noble job of preserving astrological literature through her CAELi Institute, ensuring that centuries of wisdom are not lost. I believe that as a community, it is our moral duty to support her efforts, not only for our own benefit but for the future generations of astrologers who will rely on these texts.

As Jenn shared on social media, the CAELi Institute is aiming to gather 555 members, and they currently have only 32 members. There’s a tremendous opportunity to contribute and help ensure that these vital resources are preserved for future generations of astrologers.

Mercury is retrograde and preparing for another conjunction with Rahu in Aquarius. With the world in complete chaos, polarity has intensified more than ever, and none of this is going to end soon. This doesn’t necessarily mean that the war will end soon.

There is a reference in the Mahabharata that when Rohini Nakshatra is afflicted, destruction to humanity occurs. Mars is currently squaring Rohini, while Saturn is sextiling it. Rohini has been under affliction for some time now.

These configurations will move away by April, and we can expect things to return to normalcy soon. In January, I made a video about the unfolding circumstances in Iran, where I mentioned that the situation indicated a regime that wasn’t necessarily authoritarian. While I’m not claiming that I made a prediction that came true, I reflect back with hope that everything settles soon, for the benefit and peace of everyone, especially innocent civilians.

Venus is preparing for an exact conjunction with Saturn in Pisces, offering us a realistic perspective on relationships and other Venusian matters. Just because Venus is exalted doesn’t mean it’s free from Saturn’s influence. Every configuration holds significance, and I delve deeper into this in my 1-year Diploma in Indian Astrology, with a new batch starting in June 2026.

Venus’ conjunction with Saturn isn’t negative; but it points to something deeper: the need to contain our expectations in relationships, reflecting on what is significant and what is unrealistic. With this conjunction, we’ll experience clearer boundaries in relationships, providing protection by preserving each other’s space. Sometimes, that gap is necessary as it helps us gain a fresh perspective and approach relationship needs with renewed clarity.

That gap is the emotional protection we each need, much like how we require the night after a day of light and hard work. We need a safe place to dwell, and Saturn is offering us this opportunity. There’s no need to judge or qualify any relationship’s nature; it’s important to recognise that not every gap is bad and sometimes the space improves our overall consciousness. If consciousness is your interest, I highly recommend astrologer Christina Montsma's services, who is also a diligent scholar getting ready to pursue her PhD.

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Diploma in Indian Astrology - Batch 3

The course I began in July 2025 has taken shape and progressed wonderfully well, thanks to those who study with me. With more zeal and motivation, I look forward to welcoming you if you are interested in studying Indian astrology. 

Enroll Here

Personal consultation slots for March 2026 are open now. If you are interested in a session, I’d be privileged to work with you.

Personal Consultations

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Inward Glance

Epictetus' Discourses: A Retelling

Book I, Chapter 9, 1.9.10 to 1.9.16

Epictetus now brings a personal reflection to the forefront. He acknowledges the gap between himself and the young men listening to him, and he gently nudges them towards a deeper understanding of what it means to be related to the divine. He says, “I’m older, so I won’t try to have you think small or have humble thoughts about yourselves.” He doesn’t want them to settle for small, narrow views. He is encouraging them to elevate their thoughts, their understanding, and their place in the world.

His message becomes clearer: If young people understand their kinship with the gods, they shouldn’t view their physical body or its needs (like food, rest, and even cleaning) as burdens. The body, with all its demands, is often seen as a chain, something that ties us to earthly life. But instead of wanting to shed it or escape its reality, we should see these “chains” as necessary for our biological survival and for supporting our spiritual and intellectual work.

Epictetus imagines what it would sound like if one of his students came to him, saying, “I can no longer stand being tied to this body. I want to be free of these limitations.” The young person might think they are akin to a god: free from earthly concerns, able to transcend this physical form. Epictetus calls this kind of thinking “the effort that should absorb your teacher,” meaning that any teacher worthy of guiding them would help them move past these superficial ideas and back into an understanding of life’s true purpose.

His advice is simple: Let’s leave the world of judgment, of law courts, and oppression. Let’ us return to the divine freedom from suffering that comes when we realize we are much more than our bodies and possessions. He challenges them to recognize that the robbers, thieves, and tyrants who wield power over others do so only because people are attached to their bodies and material things.

Now, Epictetus shifts to his role. If the student were to be convinced by these thoughts, he would say, “Alright, friends, if God permits, then freedom is waiting for you.” But until that time comes, they must live in endurance of what the world asks of them. They shouldn’t be swayed by the external pressures of those who seem to have power over them because of their bodies. Instead, they must live according to reason and the deeper understanding of their true identity as divine beings.

This passage is a reminder to see beyond the immediate struggles of the body and possessions, to embrace the reality of our divine nature, and to act accordingly. The world will continue to trap us with superficial things, but Epictetus encourages us to focus on the deeper, spiritual work we must do.

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Have a wonderful time.

Until Next Letter,

Love,

Aswin