The Sun enters into Aries, the first sign of the zodiac, on March 20, marking the Spring Equinox – the beginning of a new solar year. Spring stimulates a reawakening of nature, which manifests as increased activity in the plant and animal kingdoms. Even though the outer world may be blanketed in white up here in the Sierra, there is still an inner stimulus and awakening on the level of soul and spirit.
Aries is a cardinal fire sign, expressed as spiritual will power. The fire element is highly animated and is the source of enthusiasm, inspiration, and the joy of life, bursting with energy in order to express itself in action.
The fundamental keywords for Aries are ‘I Am.’ Of all the signs of the zodiac, it is the most dedicated to self-discovery. Aries stimulates a quickening of the soul occurs that pushes us to engage in another cycle of self-discovery.
There are strong societal pressures to live a life in conformity with conventional norms, and it can often be difficult to be true to oneself. From a spiritual standpoint it is very important that we listen to and follow the urgings of our inner voice. If we do so, our quality of life and level of fulfillment grow. Our dharma, or spiritual purpose, is a key factor in our personal quest for self-realization, which becomes the central element of our life and leads us to our destiny.
Aries rules the sense of adventure: to boldly step forward and embrace life, creating the opportunity for self-discovery. Fear and the desire for safety and security can dominate awareness, resulting in a limited small life. Aries helps us to overcome our fears and engage the world.
This is also one of the most passionate signs of the zodiac. It is connected with the soul quality of devotion. To live life authentically, we must follow our bliss and express our passion. Each year, the beginning of spring stimulates these important qualities of consciousness in our lives, allowing us to reconnect with our passion and unfold the next chapter of self-discovery. Be sure to take advantage of it.
Aries (March 21-April 19): This month the focus is on taking the next step in your self-development. Your usual aggressive, competitive behavior is muted now as a subtle idealistic mood overtakes you. You feel the need to search for understanding and meaning to life. Travel can provide situations that can open you up to new aspects of your being. The drive to actualize your potential is strong. Involvement with friends and groups is also highlighted.
Taurus (April 20-May 20): Your ruling planet, Venus, is moving retrograde for the next five weeks. This is emphasizing the need to take care of old unfinished business in your financial affairs. There are opportunities now to improve your monetary situation. If you have been thinking of buying or selling, now is the time. You may feel emotionally conflicted about letting go of something, but you should do it. There are career-related opportunities that can inspire and serve you well.
Gemini (May 21-June 21): Your mental creativity is stimulated now. New visions of possibilities open up to you. The inner worlds of soul and sprit are sending you important messages. Be sure to listen in order to receive this information. Then find a way to communicate and share it with others. There is potentially money in it for you. Your connection with home, family, and nature is an important part of the equation. There are some blocking influences, so you may need a little patience and perseverance.
Cancer (June 22-July 22): This is a deeply inner month for you. Meditation and spiritual practice should be at the forefront of your daily activities. You feel an inner strength and grounding and, at the same time, an elevated feeling of transcendence. This unique state wants to manifest in your life as inspiring ideas and new directions. If implemented effectively, you can make money from these enlightened thoughts. You may experience some emotional conflict over how to best articulate these ideas. You will make the right choices.
Leo (July 23-August 22): This month you need to take action on money issues. Whether it’s working extra hours to make more or addressing credit card/mortgage issues, now is the time to do it. Watch your spending. If you are in a relationship, there may be some issues to be addressed, perhaps related to power struggles that are not supporting the two of you. Competition is not good for your love relationship.
Virgo (August 23-September 22): This month can seem like an emotional rollercoaster as you are pulled between extremes. Love and money affairs are highlighted. If these are your volatile areas, then a well thought-out plan for the future is needed. Your excellent ability with details needs to be supplemented by a vision of the big picture. Some inner reflection will help you get everything organized into a workable whole.
Libra (September 23-October 23): This month relationship issues regarding finances can come up. There is some old unfinished business that needs to be dealt with. It is important that you look out for your own interests now. You must keep your tendency to please others in check. Emotional conflicts in the workplace can arise. But overall there is a genuine sense of optimism and positive opportunities for personal growth.
Scorpio (October 24-November 21): There are excellent opportunities for you to shine in group situations now. People want to hear what you have to say. Your wisdom and motivation for personal growth can inspire others. Most people realize that this is a time of change, and you can show people how to embrace this universal growth opportunity. See if you can find a community-oriented outlet for your drive and energy. Go for it.
Sagittarius (November 22-December 21): There are career and professional opportunities this month. You are inspired with new creative ideas that address issues in a holistic manner. Your ability to see the big picture and formulate a businesslike plan can result in financial rewards. There is also an element of spirituality and idealism that should be incorporated into these plans. You have a valid sense of optimism and self-confidence about the future.
Capricorn (December 22-January 19): There is a strong inner-directed quality to your attention this month. Self-reflection is appropriate now. Before you take your next step, check your inner compass to make sure you are on target. There is a need for you to look beyond the dictates of only fulfilling your personal self-interest. You are looking for a way to uplift others. Stay focused because your mind will have a tendency to be restless. You can do it.
Aquarius (January 20-February 18): You experience a definite feeling of new beginnings and rebirth. There is an expanded sense of self that is truly inspired. You are ready to take the next step in your life’s adventure. The inner and outer aspects of your life are both accentuated now, and it is an excellent time to achieve balance in your life. Your challenge is to effectively integrate the valid elements of your past with the correct direction for your future. Making this transition is important at this time.
Pisces (February 19-March 20): This month the emphasis is on integrating your spirituality into materiality. Your artistic, creative sense wants to manifest in ways that can result in increased wealth. There is abundant opportunity for unfolding a new sense of self. Look for group and community formats to share your inspired visions of how to create a better world. Your talents are needed now as never before. Enjoy!
~ Robert Ayres is a Truckee resident and internationally known astrologer with 40 years of experience. He can be contacted for personal consultations at 530-550-1118.
