Aries (March 21 - April 20)

Aries is the first Sign of the Zodiac. It represents birth and the first realization of Self. Aditionally, because it represents the beginning of the Astrological year, people born under this Sign like to get things started. They tend to display strong leadership, and their extroverted and assertive natures let them lead off the new cycle eagerly. They are the pioneers of the Zodiac, tramping courageously into the wilderness. Aries is the Sign of new beginnings. They are dynamic and active, as befits the beginning of the Astrological cycle. As the first Sign, Aries also rules the first House: the House of Self, also known as the House of Personality. The Astrological Symbol of Aries is the Ram. Like the popular conception of the Ram, Aries people are able to accomplish many things by sheer energy and force of will: "ramming" their way to their goals. In this way, Aries exemplifies the Cardinal Quality assigned to it. Arians can be blunt, and they are bold and strong. Within the Zodiac, Aries is opposite Libra, the Scales of Balance, so Aries tend to be about self and ego rather than the balance between people. They are self-contained, and sometimes selfish, but they are not loners. Aries is ruled by the Planet Mars. In ancient Roman mythology, Mars (and his Greek equivalent, Ares) was the God of War. He was bold, aggressive, energetic, and courageous. On the negative side, he was impulsive and compulsive, quick-tempered, and he could give in to anger and a will for destruction. Mars rules both Aries and Scorpio; Aries is the masculine (day) aspect of Mars and Scorpio is the feminine (night). Both Signs are associated with war: Aries is on the front lines and Scorpio is the strategist. Mars was active and high-spirited, full of physical energy and vitality; and the Aries-born reflect his leadership and initiative. They are strongly independent and determined, and have the physical stamina to stay their course. They tend to be very competitive, and may sometimes seem arrogant, domineering, or intolerant. But all these qualities make Aries the natural choice to initiate projects and get things started. They are adept at "taking the ball and running with it," and projects tend to progress quickly under their guidance. But a well-run project may become boring for Aries, and they can lack follow-through and lose interest before it's completed. Many successful Aries learn to discipline themselves to see their projects through to completion. The Element associated with Aries is Fire. Fire Signs are physical: they tend to respond to the world through action, rather than practicality, intellect, or emotion. When presented with a new project or idea, their innate enthusiasm and need for challenge cause them to jump in right away, leading the way. One of their great skills is reaching beyond normal limitations. Occasionally their tendency for haste and hurry can get them into trouble if they don't think things through carefully enough, and this can lead to frustration. At times, people can think they are brash, rude, and inconsiderate. But Aries is only doing what the Ram's nature tells them to do. As soon as they discover a new project, all else is forgotten! Arians tend to want what they want and when they want it. Aries need to accept that this isn't always possible, and stop butting their heads, Ramlike, into the nearest wall. This is a valuable lesson that enables them to develop their understanding of themselves. But because of the ego that can manifest itself in Aries, some Rams may feel that they are the center of the universe. Aries who wish to develop themselves learn that they are part of the larger order of all people. In their leisure time, Aries tend to play as hard as they work at the office. They greatly enjoy athletics, as sports give them a positive and healthy outlet for some of their natural aggression. They appreciate both individual challenge, especially aerobics, as well as the group challenge of football and soccer. Working out some of their great physical energy on the playing field helps them focus better once they return to the office. In love relationships, Aries is playful and romantic. Aries rules the head, face, and brain. People born under Aries may be more susceptible to headaches and nosebleeds than people of other Signs. Red is the color of Mars and is often associated with physical action and war, so it is natural color for Aries. The great strength of the Aries-born is in their energy, initiative, and courage. Their ability to take a project and go with it is unparalleled. The fire they bring to their lives makes them one of the most dynamic characters of the Zodiac.