Beginning with the simple information of the time, date and place of birth, Vedic astrologers combine and analyze the data in conjunction with the nine planets and the twelve houses and twelve signs, to create a multitude of charts and readings.

If you are unsure of your time of birth, the astrologers use a method called “Chart Rectification” using ancient technique called the Nadi System, which usually involves filling out a questionnaire about events in your life. They then use this information to determine when you “must have” been born, evidenced by your experience of those particular events. This may sound a trifle dubious, but nevertheless, the Jyotish claim that it is highly accurate. There is typically an additional fee for this, depending on the degree the problem poses.

Initial readings involve the making and analysis of a Birth or Natal chart, and this should take about two to three hours at the very least to evaluate with your astrologer. Obviously, this depends on your individual needs, the kind of reading you have requested and any questions you want answered, so it is best to be prepared before the reading itself.

Below is a list of some of the Charts and Readings offered by the Jyotish, along with some tips to get the most out of these services. For a listing of places online and astrologers that offer these services, do see our Resources page. For help on selecting a reputable astrologer, see Choosing an Astrologer

Birth or Natal Chart
This chart is what makes up the backbone of Vedic Astrology readings, giving a well-rounded general overview of the individual and his potential in life. Depending on the reading you ask for, the forecasts and areas of prediction covered can vary from a one year or five year period, or even longer.

Included in this are the following:

• Ascendant and Moon sign, lucky name.
• Physical and Health characteristics and Ayurvedic advice.
• Innate Nature and Psychology, personality characteristics and qualities.
• Intellectual and Academic Potential and achievements.
• Relationship characteristics and interaction skills.
• Marriage and Children
• Material Life and Home
• Financial status and Income, Spending characteristics, capabilities and predictions.
• Travel and Leisure
• Working Ability
• Suitable Professions and Careers, line of work.
• Life Span
• Spiritual Life
• Year Forecast (this period varies on the type of reading you purchase)
• Lucky Days For Business, Travel etc.

Update Readings or Varshaphala
If the general Birth reading has left you wanting more, there are “update readings” that can give you the finer details of your chart, by analyzing the data in smaller segments of time. These updates can take another 2-3 hours of evaluation with your astrologer, and you can generally choose from a year overview, a year month-by month view, or a reading of one Mahadasha, or specific planetary period.

The Book of Life Reading
This is what the Jyotish claim to be the “Mother of all Readings”, very detailed and complete and of which there is “no comparison”. It contains about 20-30 pages of in depth information beginning from the individual’s previous life, to the past in this lifetime, to the current situation and to the future, which can contain up to 10-12 years of precise predictions.

Specific Readings
Once you’ve gotten your basic natal chart, you might want to go for a more specific reading on a subject of your choice. Most Jyotish offer the following, with online prices ranging from around $100 - $200. Many astrologers also offer “tailor-made” reading requests, where you can combine any of the different readings and services to create the particular analysis you want.

Special Time Span - is the next year important to you? This sort of reading can give a detailed emphasis or an overview of a particular time period of your choice - from one to two to 10 years or more.

Relationship Analysis - for marriage, business, friendship or family, this reading can give you guidance on the dynamics of the particular relationships, including tips on how to improve the relationship. This is especially useful for marriage and business partnerships.

Spirituality Reading
This reading analyzes the unique path to spirituality of an individual. It can give guidance and helpful information, as well as predictive data to enhance spiritual growth.

Spiritual-Psychological Reading
This type of reading touches on the mentality of the individual, why he is the way he is, and also the deeper, esoteric meaning of why he has taken his present birth and what he is meant to learn in this life. Each element of the horoscope--sign, planet, house, etc.--has a deep spiritual significance. By analyzing these elements the astrologer can help the seeker to understand what it is he should learn in this lifetime, and how he must act to accomplish that mission. This kind of reading is most useful for those who are on a spiritual quest, trying to find a deeper meaning to their life, seeking self-understanding, etc.

Predictive Reading
This particular reading’s emphasis is on predictive information according to the individual’s birth chart. People who want to plan for their future usually find this sort of reading exceedingly useful.

Various Services

Muhurta
This is all about timing, as Muhurtas can give exact dates and times for success in nearly all of your activities. Depending on what you request from the astrologer, you can find out which times are best for marriage, moving into a new home, purchasing something significant, starting a new business and so on.

Medical or Health Astrology
The Jyotish may also use your chart to analyze and inform you of what elements are needed in your life for good health, such as diet and lifestyle tips, mantras, herbs, stones, and exercise that complement your individual characteristics. This usually involves the use of Ayurvedic techniques.

Auspicious Rituals
Vedic Astrologers can perform various rituals, from marriage, baptism, opening a business, to other Hindu ceremonies. They may also prescribe and carry out specialized rituals or Upayas, for the purpose of overturning bad luck, and overcoming problems seen in the Natal chart.

Astrological Name
The service is generally used for newborn children though adults can also benefit from it. The idea is to choose a name which will synchronize with the mind of the child and be helpful for the rest of their life. This can vary from a syllable to an entire name, depending on the technique or formula they use. Of course, the more complex the technique used, the more it will cost you.

Relocation Astrology:
Relocation Astrology refers to how your life is affected by changing location. In this kind of reading, the astrologer can inform you of the best places for improved health, creativity, money, career, marriage, etc. according to your Natal chart. You do not even have to move to the location, and often the Jyotish can offer suggestions of how simple connections to that area or place can prove beneficial. Relocation Astrology is made up of two different methods which can be classified as stula (gross) and suksma (subtle). The stula method is called AstroMaps, while the suskma is doing a Prasna, or question astrology

Lifespan Calculation
Vedic astrologers calculate this for the practical reason of knowing when the reading should end, but for those who are curious enough to know the exact date of their earthly departure, it can be done.