As we approach the beginning of the astrological year in the first house, Aries, March 21 – April 19, there are elements of this sign that are helpful to know. For example: The symbol of the sign is the Ram. The ruling planet is Mars, the element is Fire, the mantra is "I Am," the colors are Red and Golden Yellow, and the Tarot card is The Emperor. But what about the chakra, the crystal for Aries, or the essential oil?

Aries is filled with passion, drive, and the desire to be number one. Aries people are confident, cheerful, and highly motivated, and they like things done now. Mostly these traits are due to the fact Aries is the first sign of the zodiac. Aries represents the seed moment, the germ of all actions and the point at which forward movement commences. Aries is entrepreneurial, a leader, an adventurer, and can be impulsive and driven.

Remarkably, Aries performs their determined activity quietly. They are more concerned with the thrill of the action as opposed to the glamour. Aries gets that from Mars. Aries can be headstrong and, like the Ram, charge any obstacle in its path. It is capable of leaping between mountain tops and frequently learns life-lessons the hard way. Often, they are the blind optimist operating from impulse rather than wisdom.

Aries needs to be concerned that their passion does not consume them and burn them either up or out. Aries needs to take time out to replenish both inner and outer resources. In medical astrology, this sign rules the energies of the head, the brain, the jaw, the blood, muscles, and the pituitary gland. Headaches are a common occurrence for Aries as are imbalances in the pituitary gland, which governs hormonal function. Since blood is a primary source of human life, Aries governs the flow of nutrients and oxygen transported throughout the body. It also governs the seed that is thought before action. Its opposite sign is Libra, the sign of balance and weighing both sides. Aries can use balance before acting.

Aries should guard against the attitude, "Everyone for themselves," or, "It's all for me." Aries by itself can be a lonely sign and needs to practice inclusion for ultimate success.

Chakra:
Aries is associated with the Solar Plexus chakra, the source of drive and power in the body. The Solar Plexus, Manipura in Sanskrit, means "lustrous gem," and is located behind the navel, in the center of the stomach. The Solar Plexus mantra is, "I do," which merges perfectly with the driven nature of Aries.

When this chakra is out of balance you can expect to feel irritable, impatient, reckless, and quick to anger. When balanced, you will feel like a well-tuned engine ready for the long haul and on the right path. Risks will feel integrated and appropriate instead of like a huge gamble.

Essential Oils:
Essential Oils that are compatible with Aries are: Black Pepper, Frankincense, Rosemary, Lemon. Peppermint will help with the headaches. For balancing Aries energy, try the Libra essential oils: Geranium, Fennel, Roman Chamomile, or Lavender.

Crystals:
Aries needs citrine for balance and because citrine is self-cleansing; it will absorb and release negativity by itself. Carnelian is a stone of creativity, leadership, passion, and righteous purpose. It stimulates the mind toward heroic purpose. For balance: Aries can use Libra's stone of rose quartz to stimulate the heart and as a reminder to come from a place of love.