Don’t expect too great a shift in the astral weather this week. The planetary heat concentrated in Aries continues to be at the epicenter of human interaction. For those of you just tuning in, for the last several weeks we’ve been in a “how many planets can fit into Aries at once?” pattern. And even if you’ve managed to handle this fiery intensity with skill and avoided erupting like a volcano (which, by the way, I haven’t), this week you or someone close is likely to spew molten lava — emotional, mental, or spiritual. Expect almost everyone’s capacity for control to be challenged. But also understand that catharsis is sometimes necessary and occasionally beneficial, especially if you’ve been in denial of your own or enabling someone else’s negative behavior. Sometimes a good release is necessary, and although there are always consequences, often those consequences are worth it — but only if you or others can move beneath the superficial squabbles and identify the true issues at the core of the eruption.
Uranus, Venus, Mercury (now Direct), Mars, and Jupiter are all transiting Aries. This fiery aggregation started mid-March, when Mercury, Uranus, and the Sun joined Jupiter, already in Aries. Aries is a tempestuous, impetuous, dynamic energy that needs to move and express, physically as well as every other way. This need for motion was restrained somewhat by Mercury Retrograde. Saturn, in Libra, further challenged unrestricted and uninhibited movement; as all of the planets (with the exception of Uranus) moved through Aries, each had a “confrontation” with Saturn’s often-critical eye. Venus is the last to pass through the Saturn portal; her test will occur on Saturday, April 30. Normally there would be nothing to dread about this Venus/Saturn opposition, but the Moon also enters Aries on Friday, April 29, and during its two-day-plus journey its sparks will ignite the fires of emotional bodies — despite previous efforts to contain certain feelings. Be prepared for meltdowns, yours or others. Also understand that what’s likely to spew is pent-up frustration over issues or incidents that have been dormant for too long.
I’m not sure what the best way through the brushfires of the week might be. Aries is an impulsive Sign, but it doesn’t necessarily hold a grudge. When stressed, Aries tends to bark, much like dogs do with each other when they aren’t interested in playing; their moods pass swiftly. But a full-scale meltdown is more than momentary grumpiness, and always indicative of some deeper, long-standing difficulty. If you or someone on your field starts to erupt, do your best to discern the depth of the disturbance. If it feels superficial, let it pass without a thought. If it feels deeper, try to give it thoughtful consideration. And if you react before you have a chance to figure out what’s going on, try not to be too harsh on yourself or others.
If you know your Ascendant and/or your Moon Sign, read that, too.
ARIES Mercury’s forward motion is sure to release a huge amount of pent-up energy, as it concurrently inspires ideas on how to use that force. Listen to your intuition, but also notice where unconscious projection creates unrealistic expectations.
TAURUS Knowing what to say and how to say it has taken an emotional toll, and your reserves are almost empty. Remember: Part of the charge is related to issues of safety and security, themes best addressed by personal work.
GEMINI Personal obligations take more time than planned, career responsibilities devour what time is left, and friends need more attention than you can provide. The best way through is to simply take life one day at a time.
CANCER You’re overwhelmed, but you can’t actually retreat into your shell. You need to stay present for all the developments. Don’t be afraid to engage. Not all of your opinions will be heard, but your contribution will be greatly appreciated.
LEO Life would be much easier if you could commit wholeheartedly to being a workaholic, but you like fun too much to make that commitment. Don’t hesitate to make room for joy — it will only enhance your charismatic charm in every area of concern.
VIRGO Clashes with significant others could contribute to extreme mood swings, especially if you take every word to heart. Rather than internalize these encounters, let them pass. Eventually everyone will settle down.
LIBRA Think about how you could make a positive contribution to your community. Whether it’s for family, friends, co-workers, or complete strangers, do whatever it takes to lend a helping hand to those in need.
SCORPIO Your focus remains on all that must be done, but that’s no reason to brood — brooding will only squander your energy. Prioritize your goals, stick to a disciplined, reasonable schedule, and you’ll do fine.
SAGITTARIUS You could fall in love, or you could just as easily decide to devote yourself to making m-o-n-e-y. Of course, you could also try to manage both pursuits, but the stress of too much at one time might nullify all efforts.
CAPRICORN Home improvements, inside and out, are a top priority, especially if you want to maintain your equilibrium. Whether it’s meditation or a visit to IKEA, find activities that will help you to settle.
AQUARIUS You probably won’t be able to think before you speak, and some of what’s said might be more forceful than intended. If you’re startled by the intensity, just remember — you can always qualify as you download.
PISCES The first rule of magic: Whatever you focus your attention on becomes your reality. It’s up to you: Focus on what’s missing, or delight in all the places where your life is abundant.
