This article originally appeared on Yoga_Journal

We start the astrological new year on March 20 with the beginning of Aries season and the spring equinox. This time stirs up both our inner and outer lives by awakening courageous energy that affirms our truest selves. As Aries' fiery energy builds, it enables us to live increasingly authentic lives through more enjoyment and less expectation. This is a time for deep commitment to living your life for your highest good and the good of all.

Hey baby, there ain’t no easy way out,
But I won't back down
--Tom Petty

Aries season commences

The mantra associated with Aries, a fire sign is, "I am." Aries energy holds the power to manifest. As we transition through Aries season, we’ll be able to bring a boogie to our step and make things happen. The confident spirit of the first sign of the zodiac helps us release fear and self-doubt, making faith the focus for our new direction. Take the time to listen in the quiet and be very open to what you hear. Ask yourself, what is it that I really want? What is blocking me from getting it? Finding these answers will help you hold your vision for a better life with clarity and trust. We are ready to forge a new way with self-confidence, self-love, self-assurance, and self-trust.

Aries reorganizes our mental faculties to believe in our abilities. This helps us make positive changes in our lives, giving us the opportunity to put our head and heart in the same direction, endowing us with the ability to make good choices for our lives. A passion for unity and a healthy curiosity are what leads Aries to become leaders and protectors, always inspiring and guiding those around them to the correct action to enhance our lives.

When a ram, or Aries, is defensive, it will butt heads and become almost singularly focused on getting the obstacle out of the way. Instead, open your heart and lean into your experience. Sometimes we would rather push away the facts and keep the old wounds fresh by telling the same story. We experience both peace and grace from our willingness to be vulnerable to the truth and stay present, letting things naturally move in and out of our lives. Ultimately, what truly liberates us is the decision to give up the old way of being.

(editor：)