New Moon in Aries (Aśvinī)

The New Moon in Aries makes it feel as though the year is finally getting underway. Although the Lunar New Year begins with the New Moon in Pisces, Aries transits often feel more decisive, bringing a stronger impulse for new beginnings.This lunation encourages you to start something new in your life—especially as the days following lead into Akṣaya Tritiya, traditionally one of the most auspicious times of the year for initiating important actions. The New Moon occurs in Aśvinī, the lunar mansion I call “the swift one.” True to its nature, it supports fresh starts after the endings that typically accompany the previous Pisces cycle.There is an important lesson embedded in this time of year: every new beginning requires letting go of an old way of being. As one part of the zodiac closes, another opens. While earlier in the year we are often completing what was previously begun, this period brings new opportunities we are eager to engage with.That said, there are still several caveats to keep in mind. Mercury, Mars, Saturn, and Neptune are all gathered closely together in Pisces, forming a dense cluster that may make it feel as though the past is lingering. Even as new beginnings appear, some endings may still be unfolding, leaving us feeling temporarily stuck.Despite this, the Sun’s exaltation in Aries is something to celebrate. Whatever is still resolving behind the scenes, you may at least feel a growing sense of confidence about your next step.One final caution: a New Moon in Aśvinī can encourage impulsive action. If you feel eager to move forward—perhaps because you’ve felt held back for too long—it may be wise to pause before rushing ahead.By all means, begin something as this new energy enters your life again, but consider waiting until April 19, when both the Sun and Moon are exalted, and the Moon has begun waxing once more. Until then, the dark phase of the Moon—the New Moon itself—is better suited to planting seeds rather than acting too quickly.