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March 21 – April 19
Ruling Planet: Mars
Natural House: 1st
Element: Fire
Modality: Cardinal
Rules: The Head
Key Phrase: I Am
Key Words: Action ~ Assertive ~ Brave ~ Competitive ~ Eager ~ Energetic ~ Hasty ~ Impatient ~ Impulsive ~ Independent ~ Initiating ~ Motivated ~ Optimistic ~ Pioneering ~ Provocative ~ Reactive ~ Spontaneous ~ Warrior
Aries is the first sign of the zodiac. In ancient times it was considered the start of a new year, consistent with the birth of Spring in the Northern Hemisphere. This is a sign of beginnings and one can think of it as the start of new growth, much like the initiation of new buds on trees, or the sprigs of plants sprouting through the earth and reaching upwards starting their cycle of growth. Symbolized by the Ram, a creature that that thrusts its head against whatever may be in its way, strong Aries types are often singularly focused and driven towards achieving their wants and desires. A somewhat adolescent energy, Aries is a lot to do with “self-interest” and there is not always much consideration for how others may be affected. Acting independently and for themselves, there is generally strong ego associated with this sign.
Not easily daunted, an Aries native can be both fearless and relentless in their pursuit of a goal. They can be natural motivators for themselves and others. At times, one can get caught up in the exuberance of the Aries energy, which seems to be ever present and unstoppable. Aries is self-directed and the phrase “I am” speaks volumes as they announce their intent and initiate action. There is a determined confidence within Aries to pioneer and blaze new trails, or to take up the “battle” and fight for what they want. Feeling as though they can take on the world and win the challenge, their optimism and impulsiveness can prevent them from seeing the obstacles and consequences of their actions. I’ve known a few strong Aries types who’s spontaneity and hasty actions have frequently left them wishing they had taken a moment to pause and consider the possible outcomes.
The sign of Aries is ruled by the planet Mars. Named for the Roman God of war, that association brings to mind visions of warriors, battles, passion, and bravery…all consistent with key words for the sign it governs. The fourth planet from the Sun, Mars can be seen from Earth with the naked eye, its red colour making it unmistakable. We associate the colour red with Mars, and thus with Aries. It rules what angers us, what gets us stirred up, and what we are passionate about. It should be no surprise then that both are associated with the element of fire. Aries is reactive and can be quick to anger. The expressions “she was so angry she saw red” and “he was all fired up about something”, are very indicative of Aries and Mars energy.
In the natal chart, the natural house of Aries is the First House. Regardless of where Mars appears in your chart, there is always a reflection of that “me” energy, as the First House represents how we “come forth in the world”. It’s very much about how we show up and how we react to our environment and the world around us. The first thing we usually notice about a person is their face. Aries rules the face and head, easily remembered since the horns of the Ram frame its face, which is the strongest representation of that animal.
Where Mars appears in our natal chart, by house and sign, there are clues as to how we take action in our everyday lives. If one’s Mars is in the sign of Gemini, it might suggest a very active mind, strongly motivated by the acquisition of knowledge, and with an ability to communicate quite forcefully at times. If the Mars in Gemini happens to be in the Twelfth House, like mine is, there is likely to be some connection with Karma, things hidden, secrets, causes, or isolation, to name a few possibilities. To illustrate the combination of a 12th House Mars in Gemini, I’ll share this brief personal example. When I was young my Mars was most clearly characterized by hidden anger which could readily and forcefully express when that pent up energy exploded and the cork blew off of the container. As time went on, I focused that angry energy towards physical activity. I remember leaving the house and walking very brusquely to work off some anger, and other times I would aggressively clean my house…it was spotless in record time! I remember thinking that “with enough determination and energy, I could tackle anything I set my mind to”. These are examples of burning up that energy, and working towards using it in a more positive and productive way…like focusing the blast if you will. Do you see the symbolism playing out here? Of course, this is only one aspect of my Mars but it clearly illustrates some of the key concepts of the planet, the sign it rules, and how it may manifest in certain aspects of one’s life.
With the benefit of Astrology, I have come to understand the placement of my Mars and appreciate the growth I’ve experienced dealing with my emotional reactions at those times when I get riled up. Take note of where Mars is in your chart, and which of your houses is ruled by Aries. What do you notice about these aspects of your life? How are you managing your Aries and Mars energies?
~ Jayne Logan
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