By Dorene A. Carrel

April is a dynamic month, highlighted by a large cluster of fiery Aries planets. Aries is a trail-blazing and courageous sign, but it can also be very impulsive and volatile. These tendencies are enhanced by ruler Mars in challenging aspects to all of the outer planets. April is also highlighted by Neptune entering Pisces, a stationary Pluto and the continuation of Mercury retrograde.  Although April begins with much momentum for change, it would be wiser to wait until later in the month (or May) to make any significant new beginnings.

On April 3 the New Moon occurs at 13 Aries 30.  Aries is the pioneer of the zodiac, with the traits of being energetic, assertive, independent and living in the present. This month favors taking new approaches to ongoing situations. As this lunation opposes Saturn, we may feel more limited and tested, but can also receive substance and grounding for new ideas. The trine to Jupiter provides optimism and inspiration. As we are still in a Mercury retrograde period, it is best to recheck all the details and take a more cautious step-by-step approach.  The Sabian symbol for this degree, “a serpent coiling near a man and a woman,” reminds us that wisdom comes from integrating both the female (intuitive) and male (logical) sides of our awareness.

On this same day, there is a challenging alignment of Mars and Uranus in Aries.  This aspect brings a great drive towards self-assertion, as well as more freedom and independence. There is great potential for angry, impulsive and reckless behavior, so be careful when driving and avoid any unnecessary risks. Also be more patient in dealing with others at this time. As this aspect occurs near the World Degree, greater potential exists for sudden earth changes or explosive events this week and suitable preparation is advised.

On April 4 Neptune enters its own sign of Pisces for the next fourteen years.  It will retrograde back to Aquarius from August 4, 2011 to February 4, 2012 before its final entry into Pisces. Neptune in Pisces will bring out its other-worldly nature and attune us to the higher realms of spiritual expression, transcendence and unity. Other dimensions may become a part of our reality and it will be easier to develop our intuitive abilities.  Alternative healing and energy medicine will also gain more recognition. 

Pluto turns stationary retrograde on April 8 at 7 Capricorn 30.  This is a transformative time when power issues are heightened on both collective and personal levels. Dramatic shifts can occur, which can be triggered on April 11 when Mars in Aries squares Pluto. The intensity increases when these two volatile planets come together in cardinal signs. We can use this energy more favorably by tackling obstacles and eliminating what is not needed for our greater growth.  On this same day Mercury aligns with Jupiter in Aries, which brings an original approach through inspired thinking.

On April 17 the Full Moon occurs at 28 Libra.  While Aries is very self-oriented and assertive, Libra is receptive and focused on relationships.  This period can be used to examine the power dynamics in our relationships to bring them more into balance.  Libran energy provides more detachment so we can see both sides of an issue, along with a heightened sense of fairness and equality.  As Libra is an air sign, communication will also be very important.  The Sabian symbols for this degree emphasize the importance of preparation, as well as becoming aware of the “community” of spiritual forces that surround and assist us.

On April 18-19 an alignment of Mercury and Mars in Aries will oppose Saturn in Libra.

As this aspect occurs around the same degree as the new moon, we may see the outcome of situations that occurred earlier in the month.  We may have a growing need to take action on certain new ideas and plans, but again Saturn may indicate that either forces aren’t in place yet or we are not quite ready.  This time can best be used for further assessment and to gather support. 

On April 21, a challenging Mars/Neptune aspect can reveal something we have overlooked and a correction may need to be made.

Mercury turns direct on April 23 at 13 Aries. Within a few days we will regain a new sense of clarity and connections to people and data should flow more easily.  It is likely best to wait until the new moon in early May for any important new beginnings, signing contracts, etc.

On April 30 Mars aligns with Jupiter in Aries, expanding our vision and providing new optimism and a sense of adventure. This aspect favors having a good outlet for physical energy, such as sports or spring cleaning. On this same day Venus in Aries opposes Saturn in Libra, which will bring more awareness to our personal needs in relationships.

May features a Scorpio Full Moon to prepare us for the eclipses of June and July.  Blessings for a wonderful Spring and stay tuned!

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Dorene Carrel is a professional astrologer with over thirty years of experience, offering birth chart, transits/progressions and relocation astrology readings.  She is certified in Astrocartography.  For more information, contact Dorene at dorenea5@yahoo.com.

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All references to Sabian symbols are from An Astrological Mandala: The Cycle of Transformation and Its 360 Symbolic Phases, by Dane Rudhyar. 

Check out my astrology blog at www.astroconnections.blogspot.com for ongoing astrological observations on current events, people, trends, etc. 

Background and previous columns can be found at www.alcseattle.com. Donations also gratefully accepted.  Send to P.O. Box 432, Seahurst, WA 98062