In general: The sun is now in spontaneous Aries. Coupled with the Aries New Moon on March 22nd, this should make it an outstanding time for new beginnings, including relationships and professional. A New Moon in Aries is customarily a good time to attempt something fresh, however this New Moon does occur during a Mercury retrograde cycle, which just happens to be in the same sign- Aries, so although we may feel desirous of something new in our lives, it won't necessarily flow with ease or grace! If the restless energy gets the better of you then it'd be vital to express it through something you've tried before but perhaps with an additional or innovative twist. This New Moon conjuncts the retrograding Mercury, so we'll have to be watchful that we're choosing our words prudently and not creating pointless arguments. On March 23rd, Mercury moves back into Pisces. It would be a good time to take a spiritual retreat, or schedule some more meditation time. If you are enjoying a birthday this week then it should herald a year of polishing and refining in all areas of your life. On the world scene this week can be a frustrating one and anything new attempted will have later difficult repercussions. Locally be careful of what you say!

Thought for the week: Wisdom is the reward you get for a lifetime of listening when you'd have preferred to talk. ~Doug Larson

Aries
You should feel an increase in vitality this week! But you may also feel the need for more attention and this might cause you to act and speak before you think! It may also feel as if no matter how you try nothing is going your way. Listen to the messages and you will realise that you are meant to be quiet and reflective now, even if it’s not what you feel like!

Taurus
You guys are happy to withdraw your energy from the crowds now and keep your council. It’s a good thing as other’s energies can be draining this week. The new moon on Wednesday brings a part of your life to its conclusion and allows something new to begin. Some cleaning and sorting will be necessary in the process.

Gemini
You need to be with others now as being alone just makes you feel restless. It’s a great time for helping others or getting involved in a worthy cause. New goals and plans can be nutted out around the new Moon and these may require some considerable rethinking of previous plans. Communication needs your full attention.

Cancer
There are opportunities to put more energy into career goals now and you will want to make sure that others realise your true worth. Some positive outcomes are likely where work is concerned in particular. Long distance travel, family, writing and spirituality are all areas where some rethinking will be required and this could be challenging for you.

Leo
Educational activity, philosophical discussions and spiritual activity are all favoured this week and provide opportunities for you to feel more positive about life in general. Creativity is also looking good at this time. It can however be a difficult period in which to bring about immediate change. Money matters can be confusing.

Virgo
It’s time to consider your future goals and direction and to review plans and strategies o achieve these. You still have a good deal to be pleased about so try to focus on this as Mercury brings its many little hiccups into your world. Money and resources are on your mind and yes, there are ways to make more for less!

Libra
Its time to give your partner some much needed attention. It’s a week where energy levels are low for you and you may feel as if you just haven’t got the get up and go you require in order to complete tasks. You may also need to pay extra attention to the tasks you do attempt as some may need doing over.

Scorpio
Your health and energy levels are excellent now and you are happy to put extra focus into your work. An old unresolved issue will be back to become settled. Romance seems to have found a quieter place in your life at the moment and you feel like going out with your mates. Its ok, you are both just finding your individual places in the world.

Sagittarius
Going out, being social and romantic are the best ways for you to feel good about yourself this week. It’s a crucial time to rekindle romances and put energy back into your home and family. Others will need your love and support. A creative hobby can be a good way to put balance into your very demanding world.

Capricorn
Home and family take on a new importance this week and you feel most comfortable and content when you are in home base. Mercury is playing havoc with you guys and others do not understand you at all whilst you in turn are apt to severely misunderstand them. Whatever you do not jump to hasty conclusions.

Aquarius
You are restless and have very little patience for the mundane and boring this week. Finances can cause some concern now too and a purchase you had not considered may come up. It’s definitely not a good time to spend up big or make any unnecessary purchases. Things will ease up next month so go slow for now.

Pisces
Using money without forethought can make you feel poorly about yourself now and you are at your most balanced if being sensible about this. It’s an emotional and difficult week and you seem more sensitive than usual which is a lot of sensitivity!! You feel as if others do not really listen to you and life is very confusing. Try to stay smiling.

Astral Peeks: Astronomy nights

If you are planning a holiday break in Sydney this coming school holidays then consider this:
“If you have a budding "astronomer" at home, bring him or her to the Astronomy Night at Macquarie University Observatory. At the Astronomy Night session, professional trained staff will show participants the moon, planets, binary stars, nebulae, star clusters, and bright galaxies through their 12" and 16" in-dome telescopes. It's a wonderful experience to be able to spot heavenly astronomical bodies in our night skies!
DATE: Every Friday from March to November 2012 (excluding public holidays or when there's inclement weather)
VENUE: Macquarie University Observatory, Gymnasium Rd, Macquarie Park. Macquarie Park is part of the Northern Sydney suburbs located 12 kilometres north-west of the Sydney CBD.

Meditation Moments: Mudras and the art of patience

Mudras are hand positions used to regulate and balance the flow of subtle energy throughout the body. Joining the fingers or touching them to another part of the body creates a circuit that allows the energy, or prana, to flow. Mudras are sacred hand gestures, sometimes considered a form of moving focus and cultivation. They are found in Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism and other related practices..
Here is one to try: Shuni Mudra
Known as “the seal of patience,” the Shuni mudra is formed by placing the tip of the middle finger on the tip of the thumb. The Shuni mudra is said to promote patience and discernment, as well as the courage to fulfil one’s life purpose.