Aries/Taurus April 19 to April 23

Aries is the first sign of the zodiac. It represents birth and the first realization of self. Taurus, the second sign of the zodiac, moves beyond what is represented by Aries. Taurus begins to physically explore the world. Aries tend to display strong leadership, and their extroverted and assertive nature lets them eagerly lead the new cycle of the zodiac. Taureans tend to be richly sensual, enjoying the good things in life and the physical pleasures that come with them. Together, these two astrological signs denote an active and dynamic pioneer who responds to the world by examining the worth of each possible response. The ability to follow through and complete projects that others may have abandoned through boredom or because it was too difficult is blended with the sign of new beginnings. This promises a tremendous amount of fulfilling adventure and achievement for those born on the Aries/Taurus cusp. The astrological symbol of Aries is the Ram. Like the popular conception of the Ram, Aries people are able to accomplish a lot by sheer energy and force of will, ramming their way to their goals. In this way, Aries exemplifies the cardinal quality assigned to it. The astrological symbol of Taurus is the Bull. The term bullheaded applies to Taureans in both its positive and negative connotations, and Taurus exemplifies the fixed quality assigned to it. The Aries/Taurus can be blunt, and they are bold and strong. They are among the strongest combination of signs when it comes to meeting goals because of their reliable persistence. Those born under the influence of both astrological signs are able to initiate and successfully complete projects and activities. Aries is ruled by the planet Mars. In ancient Roman mythology, Mars (and his Greek equivalent, Aries) was the god of war. He was bold, aggressive, energetic and courageous. On the negative side, he was impulsive, compulsive and quick-tempered, and he could give in to anger and a will for destruction. Taurus is ruled by the planet Venus. In ancient Roman mythology, Venus (and her Greek equivalent, Aphrodite) was the goddess of love, beauty and pleasure. She represented joy, happiness and appreciation of beautiful things. On the negative side, her appreciation for sweets and luxury could result in overindulgence. Mars was active and high-spirited, full of physical energy and vitality; the Aries/Taurus-born reflect his leadership and initiative. They are strongly independent and determined and have the physical stamina to stay their course. They have a great love for culture. It's important for them to feel good. They often maintain extensive art collections and tend to be artistic themselves, sometimes through singing. They enjoy partnership and marriage, and use their charm -- as well as their focused perseverance -- to work toward harmony and personal security. An individual born on the Aries/Taurus cusp has the potential for great satisfaction in life, thanks to the balance of great action and great will. The element associated with Aries is fire, and the element associated with Taurus is earth. Fire signs are physical beings who tend to respond to the world through action. Earth signs tend to respond to the world by examining the worth of each possible response. The combination of these two elements provides a solid foundation to pioneer uncharted territories. The Aries/Taurus tends to want what they want, when they want it. The Aries side of their character needs to accept that this isn't always possible and stop butting their heads, ram-like, into the nearest wall. Aries/Taurus people can also be extremely patient and dependable. Their ambition ensures that they are hardworking and helpful to others. The blending of their elements, earth and fire, gives them a general focus on building things and seeing their ideas through to completion. However, the fixed opinions of the Aries/Taurus can be surprisingly unchangeable, even when they have discovered a flaw in their logic. In their leisure time, Aries/Taurus 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. Aries/Taurus tend to enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, that allow them to get close to the earth. Conversely, their appreciation of art and culture sends them to the opera and exclusive galleries. The Aries/Taurus cusp individual could possibly be an expert rock climber, kayaker or skier. Intense activity and drive channeled through a great love and respect for the natural beauty of the outdoors is often seen with this astrological aspect. The great strength of the Aries/Taurus-born is in their energy, initiative and courage. Their ability to take a project and go with it is unparalleled. Their more earthy side brings out their stability and perseverance. Methodical determination enables them to be productive when others have long since given up. With the combination of fire and earth, they are one of the most dynamic, stable and passionate characters of the zodiac.