The universe is giving its first major shock to the world as we welcome the high-octane energy of the year 2026—a Universal Year 1. A shift in the Moon’s position will take place on the night of January 5th, leading into January 6th, when the Moon will enter the Ashlesha constellation, which is well known in Vedic astrology as the Serpent Moon. A coiled serpent is the symbol of Ashlesha in the spiritual domain. It signifies profound intuition, buried secrets, and “Naga” energy. During this time, there can be extreme knowledge, but at the same time, a “venomous” edge can be felt by the unprepared ones. The Serpent Moon is known for bestowing “Shadow Luck”—an era when the situation is not exactly what it seems, and hidden foes or self-sabotaging thoughts may emerge from the darkness. Those born on certain dates will need to be extremely cautious of the first lunar serpent of the year.
What is the Serpent Moon (Ashlesha)?
The planetary ruler of Ashlesha Nakshatra is Mercury, and the Nagas (gods of the underworld) keep a watchful eye over it. Unlike the supporting “Pushya” energy that came before it, the Moon of the Serpent is sharp, intense, and possessive. It is the dance of “Entwinement.” The time when the Moon is in this position brings to the fore our “Sarp Dosha” or karmic entanglements. The Moon position marks a day when the people are more likely to be manipulative, suspicious, or to have emotional outbursts all of a sudden. In the light of 2026, a year of adventurous new starts, the Serpent Moon acts as a “filter,” determining if your bases are laid upon truth or upon deceit. It is a time of Shadow Work, where the cosmos beckons you to encounter the aspects of your self that you normally keep away.
Birth Dates Most Affected by ‘Shadow Luck’
The Serpent Moon’s influence extends to the entire human race, but people born on the dates listed below might have a hard time coping with it for the next two days. If your birthday is one of these, the “poison” of Ashlesha may show itself through misfortunes in communication or even sudden betrayals.
The Truth-Seekers: Birth Dates 9, 18, 27 (Number 9s)
As a Number 9, Mars is your planet. Mars and the Serpent (Ashlesha) have an unstable relationship. The Risk: You may have unexpected, very intense discussions with your relatives and coworkers. The Serpent Moon loves to manipulate words. An innocent remark made by you today could turn into a declaration of war. The Advice: Your strongest protection is silence. Don’t participate in arguments or enter into any “final” agreements today. The energy is too tricky for solid commitments.
The Intellectuals: Birth Dates 5, 14, 23 (Number 5s)
Mercury governs you, the very same planet that governs Ashlesha. This “Double Mercury” effect brings about a mental influence that is too much to bear. The Risk: Your “Shadow Luck” shows up as a lack of clarity in your thoughts or a series of tech mishaps. Your hard drive gets corrupted on this day, or an important email goes “missing.” In addition, your mind may also get into a loop of suspicion, and you will start doubting those who are actually supportive. The Advice: Keep your feet on the ground. The Serpent energy is “Breezy” and “Mesmerising.” Consume root plants, and do not spend too much time analysing social media interactions today.
The Sensitives: Birth Dates 2, 11, 20, 29 (Number 2s)
The Moon governs you, hence you experience each of its shifts very strongly. The movement from the “King Star” (Pushya) to the “Serpent Star” (Ashlesha) might seem like a tremendous emotional fall. The Risk: A sudden loss of self-assurance or an aura of “unexplained fear” might be felt by you. It is just the Serpent Moon awakening your subconscious. Don’t take any big decisions regarding love today, as the lunar magnetic field is diverting your “Internal Compass.”
The ‘Snake-Shedding’ Ritual: How to Neutralise Bad Luck
To escape the Serpent Moon’s “bite,” you need to imitate the snake, i.e., getting rid of your old skin. This is the method for turning “bad luck” into a “power move.” Salt Water Cleanse: The last thing you do tonight is wash your hands and feet with warm water and rock salt. The “Rahu-like” shadow energy of the Serpent Moon is neutralised by salt. The ‘Mouna’ (Silence) Practice: Today, be in silence for at least one hour. Phone, music, and talking are not allowed. This stops the “tongue” (the serpent’s weapon) from incurring karmic debt. Light a Camphor Lamp: In the middle of your house, burn a tiny piece of camphor. The smell of camphor is said to keep negative “Naga” vibrations at bay and to eliminate the “Nazar” (the evil eye), which usually intensifies during Ashlesha.
About the Author
