Aries Season: Emerging New Life
After a long, dormant winter, the world around us suddenly bursts into action.
The first buds of spring pop open, animals shake off their winter sleep, and there's a palpable buzz of energy, all around March 21st- April 19th.
This is the essence of Aries as the sign of the Energetic New Year and the first chapter of Spring – vibrant, spontaneous, and a bit impulsive.
Aries is the first sign of the Zodiac, and the sign that a new cycle of life has begun.
Dubbed the baby of the Zodiac, it is the burst of soul fire needed to begin new things. Aries represents the seed, the inception of ideas, the spark that ignites action. This is the energy of the flowers blooming, pushing up through snow that has not yet melted, or the birds chirping louder and clearer as longer days return. And it's a time when we too feel a surge of newfound energy, a fiery urge to adventure out and into a newly reborn world.
As the Earth renews itself, so should we. Nature asks us to sync our personal cycles with the natural world, honoring the start of the Astrological New Year by setting intentions, and putting in action towards our goals. For months now, we have conserved and turn inward, but now the green light is lit, and our message is to push out and forward on a grand new path.
The Myth of the Golden Ram
The Golden Ram, the shape of the constellation of Aries, tells us the story of embarking on these new adventures, as well as the sacrifices they may ask of us.
The journey of Phrixus and Helle on the Golden Ram is both miraculous and tragic. As they soar across the sky, Helle's loses her grip, and falls to her death in the treacherous seas below them. Her fall is marked by the name "Hellespont," a stretch of water now known as the Dardanelles. Her story reminds us that great gains often come with significant losses.
Winter may have claimed relationships, jobs, or entire ways of being. After months of deep reflection we may have allowed certain things, people, or places in our life to rest permanently, aware that they are no longer able to join us on the next leg of our journey. Loss is a part of the cycle of life and all of its gifts.
Helle’s brother and the Ram prevailed, arriving to the safe home of the King Aeëtes, and marking a moment of rebirth. Despite the heavy loss of his sister, Phrixus felt joy and gratitude for his newfound safety, so he sacrificed the ram to Zeus, and offered its Golden Fleece to the King, who placed it in a sacred grove guarded by a dragon.
Over time, the Golden Fleece came to be known as a symbol of royalty and authority, coveted by many. It is the quest for this fleece that propels Jason and the Argonauts into their legendary journey, highlighting these themes of heroism, the pursuit of honor, and the challenges faced by those who seek to reclaim what they believe is rightfully theirs. These motifs resonate through the ages, making the season of Aries a guide for those who dare to venture into the unknown, driven by the promise of rejuvenation and the thrill of beginning anew.
Mars and Fire
Initiating, Motivating, Combative
In Roman mythology, Mars was the God of War but also a Guardian of Agriculture, embodying the story of both destruction and creation, the dance found in the ever moving circle of life and fire itself.
Soldiers showed their devotion to him through rituals and sacrifices, hoping that he would be pleased and share his spirit with them on the battlefield.
Yet, his influence also extended into the nurturing fields of food, where he was seen as a protector and patron of farmers and their lands. This role shows us Mars' importance in the cycles of the Universe; connecting the life force energy of the Earth and the people it sustains, as they consume and rebirth one another.
In this imagining, Mars was associated with the fertility of the land, the cycle of the seasons, and the essential balance between taking and giving. He symbolized the hope of sewing new seeds in the aftermath of destruction, laying the foundation for a rejuvenated world with each coming Spring.
The Red Hawk and Leadership
This season honors the wisdom of the hawk, viewing it as a protector and guide for us as we venture into the new.
The hawk's dominion over the skies show us its natural freedom and strength; but it's also a masterclass in diving in headfirst. Watching it soar, you're reminded that to lead is to have a vision that goes beyond what is immediate—to see the details of the forests and the trees all around you, and to understand the delicate balance that holds it all together. Only then can you act with precision.
The hawk knows when to glide with the currents and when to dive, when to strike and when to watch. Its perspective is broad, encompassing everything below, yet it's also focused, able to pinpoint a single point on the ground with accuracy. This duality, the ability to maintain a wide view while focusing on the details, is at the heart of a good leader.
This lesson is powerful in today's world, where the challenges we face—be they personal, professional, or global—are often complex and interconnected. Like the red hawk, we must learn to elevate our viewpoint, to see beyond the immediate troubles and distractions, and to focus on the bigger picture. We must learn to lead ourselves into the chaos with fierceness and the vulnerability of our intuition.
Aries and the Body
I want you to imagine you’re a sprinter at the starting line, muscles coiled, mind laser-focused, every part of you ready for the cue to let go in an explosive burst of speed.
That is the energy of this season—fiery, fierce, and ready to leap into action at a moment's notice.
The first moments of Spring are ripe with the thrill of the chase, the spirit that blazes trails and leads the charge. But what happens when this particular race is over, and all of the excitement and anticipation fades? We must recover, rebuild, and prepare for the next challenge. This season shows us how to do that for our bodies and spirit through the element of fire.
Aries rules the head, brain, and eyes—parts of us that lead the way.
This fire sign’s influence can stoke our internal engines, revving up our metabolism and immune response.
But, just as a fire that burns too hot can exhaust its fuel, our bodies can also suffer from an overabundance of Aries’ intensity, and we’ll need to keep it healthy with the right nutrients!
Nurturing the Adrenals
This season feels like life accelerates, demanding quick decisions and action. Yet, this can put our bodies into overdrive, triggering a stress response that keeps us in a perpetual 'fight or flight' mode. Our adrenal glands, the tiny sentinels that govern our stress hormones, can become overworked, and need periods of rest and restoration to function properly. This looks like getting proper rest, meditating, and channelling our energy into action when our body allows for it.
Regulating Blood Sugar and Metabolism
Healthy blood sugar levels are the difference between a steady, sustained flame and a series of short, flaring bursts. When our blood sugar spikes and dips, it's like erratic gusts of wind on a fire—unsettling and unsustainable. Keeping that fire steady is key to a calm and focused mind, healthy immune response.
Metabolism, the process by which our bodies convert food into energy, is a perfect example of the internal fire at work. This complex biochemical process is like a controlled burn, where nutrients are broken down and transformed into energy that fuels our every action, from the simplest movement to the most complex brain functions. This metabolic fire is essential for maintaining life, driving the cellular processes that underpin growth, repair, and the maintenance of vital functions.
However, feeding our fire doesn't just mean stoking it; it means sustaining it with the right kindling. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and a rainbow of fruits and vegetables can act as the perfect fuel. They’re the kind of logs that burn long and steady, providing enduring energy. And hydration is also important—water is essential, the life-giving river that allows our body and adrenal responses to function properly. Cooling water is the balancing element for fire, able to quell bursts and explosions of energy.
Guardian Herbs and Recipes
Nurturing our Qi and Fire
While this season is celebrated for its burst of energy to the brain and body, it also comes with its challenges. The fiery energy that jolts us into spring, if left unchecked, can lead to issues, like inflammation and injuries from overexertion, to impulsive decisions and spiritual burnout. This is a great season to give caffeine alternatives a try! Below are some of our favorite herb allies to help make the most of your Aries Adventure.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
This root, known as Zingiber officinale, acts as a warming and stimulating boost to the body. It’s especially great in boosting the immune system, which is crucial as we acclimate to the changing weather of spring.
Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties also make it an excellent remedy for muscular strains and pains, common during this time of high physical activity.
And its warming effect on the body is not just physical; ginger also invigorates the spirit, providing a gentle boost to anyone who may be feeling overwhelmed in the rush of Aries' intense energy.
RECIPE: Ginger Honey Citrus Dressing
Combine 1/4 cup grated ginger, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, 1/4 cup of orange juice, and 2 tbsp honey in a bowl. Whisk until the honey is dissolved.
Slowly pour in 1/2 cup of olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify the dressing.
Let the dressing sit for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. For a stronger ginger flavor, you can gently heat the mixture before adding the olive oil, then cool and strain.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Yarrow, also known as Achillea millefolium, is a resilient plant, with its delicate white flowers, that has a long history of use as a healing herb. It's known for its ability to aid in wound healing – both physical and emotional which can be so helpful during the assertive and sometimes rash energy of Aries season. Yarrow's properties can help us deal with the minor cuts and bruises that might come with being outside more and being more active.
It's said to have been used by the Chinese philosopher Confucius in the I Ching, the ancient divination text, for these healing properties, highlighting its deep spiritual significance. European folk magic also tells of yarrow being used in love spells, and its Latin name is even thought to derive from the Greek hero Achilles, who used it to heal soldiers' wounds during the Trojan War.
It's also known for its ability to support digestion and circulation, both of which can be challenged during the transition from the sluggish energy of winter to the vibrance of spring. For those who find themselves a bit overwhelmed by Aries' intense energy, Yarrow can be a grounding force, helping to soothe stress and anxiety.
HOW TO USE IT: Yarrow Skin Oil
Place 1 cup of dried yarrow flowers and leaves into the clean, dry jar. If you're using fresh yarrow, ensure it's completely dry to avoid introducing moisture into the oil, which can lead to spoilage.
Pour 2 cups of the carrier oil (almond, olive, jojoba, etc) of your choice over the yarrow, making sure that the herbs are completely submerged. If necessary, use a spoon to stir and release any air bubbles trapped under the herbs.
Seal the jar tightly. For a slow infusion, place the jar in a warm, sunny spot and let it sit for 4-6 weeks, shaking it gently every few days. For a faster infusion, use a double boiler: place the jar in the double boiler, fill the boiler with water to about halfway up the side of the jar, and gently heat the water to a simmer for 2-3 hours, ensuring the jar doesn't get too hot or run out of water.
After the infusion period, strain the oil through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a clean bottle or jar. Make sure to squeeze out as much oil as possible from the yarrow.
Label your yarrow-infused oil with the date and store it in a cool, dark place. The oil should be good for up to a year if stored properly.
Orange Peel (Chen Pi)
Orange peel is a powerhouse of vitamins, particularly vitamin C, and antioxidants, which protect the body against free radicals. It's also rich in fiber, aiding digestion, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
As the orange peel ages, it undergoes a transformation, deepening in both flavor and medicinal properties. It can harmonize the stomach, promote the flow of qi (vital energy), and expel dampness from the body.
This makes it great for digestive issues like bloating, indigestion, and nausea. Chen Pi is also used for its ability to break up phlegm, making it a go-to remedy for coughs and colds.
Traditionally, Chen Pi is associated with good fortune, longevity, and prosperity. In mythology, the orange tree is considered a symbol of abundance and happiness, with its evergreen leaves representing eternal life.
RECIPE: Orange Chicken
In a bowl, combine 1lb of chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 1tsp of cornstarch. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Soak 3-4 pieces of Chen Pi in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften it slightly. This will help release its flavors more easily when cooked.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it is nearly cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the softened Chen Pi, garlic, and ginger, sautéing for about a minute until fragrant. Add green and red bell peppers and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
Return the chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Add 1 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp hoisin sauce, 1 Tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tsp sugar, and 1/2 cup of chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is cooked through.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving, if desired. Serve your Chicken hot with a side of steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)
Known for its cooling effect on fire elements, this beautiful flowering plants is often used in African traditional medicine to manage body temperature, treat heart conditions, and soothe sore throats.
The rich, red tea made from hibiscus flowers is a refreshing drink, but also a potent concoction believed to support our heart health and lower blood pressure. Its diuretic properties also help our kidneys to expel excess fluid and keep things flowing. In fact, it is also often prescribed to get rid of stagnation, a condition believed to be at the root of a majority of common disorders. By promoting circulation, hibiscus also helps us feel pain relief, especially in the abdomen and muscles.
The vibrant color of hibiscus is thought to embody fire itself, linking it to the heart and spirit, and illustrating the plant's role in nurturing not just the body but the soul.
RECIPE: Hibiscus Sorbet
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Remove from heat and add 1 cup of dried hibiscus flowers. Cover and let steep for about 20 minutes. This infusion will have a deep red color and a tart flavor.
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing on the flowers to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the flowers.
Return the strained liquid to the saucepan, add1 cup of sugar and a pinch of salt, and heat over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from heat.
Stir in 1 Tbsp of lime juice and lime zest (if using) into the hibiscus mixture. The lime not only adds a refreshing citrus note but also balances the tartness of the hibiscus.
Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature. Then, cover and refrigerate until it is thoroughly chilled, at least 4 hours or overnight. It's important for the mixture to be cold before churning.
Pour the chilled hibiscus mixture into an ice cream maker and churn. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes. Transfer the churned sorbet to an airtight container and freeze until firm, about 2-3 hours or overnight, to achieve the perfect sorbet texture.
Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
Many Indigenous tribes of Turtle Island speak of bearberry as a sacred plant, gifted to them by Creator or shown to them by animals like bears, who were observed consuming it for health.
Known scientifically as Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, bearberry is truly amazing for its urinary tract benefits. It's a powerful antiseptic that has been used for centuries to treat urinary tract infections.
Its leaves contain compounds like arbutin, which metabolize into hydroquinone, a potent antimicrobial agent, helping to soothe inflammation and combat infection in our body. This is complemented by bearberry's spiritual stories. Bearberry is seen as a protector and purifier, cleansing the body and spirit of toxins and negative energies, themes deeply embedded in the fabric of spring and Aries season.
HOW TO USE IT: Bearberry Salve
Infuse the Oil with Bearberry Leaves
Place 1/4 cup of dried bearberry leaves in a jar and cover them with the carrier oil.
Seal the jar tightly and place it in a sunny spot for about 2-3 weeks to allow the oil to infuse with the properties of the bearberry leaves. Shake the jar gently every day to mix the contents.
After the infusion period, strain the leaves from the oil using a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve. Ensure you squeeze out as much oil as possible from the leaves.
Making the Salve
In a double boiler (or a glass bowl set over a pot of simmering water), gently heat the infused oil. Add 1/4 cup of beeswax pellets to the oil and stir until the beeswax is completely melted, creating a uniform mixture.
If using, add a few drops of lavender essential oil to the mixture for its calming scent and skin-soothing properties. Stir well.
Once everything is thoroughly mixed and melted together, carefully pour the mixture into small tins or jars. Let the salve cool and solidify at room temperature.
Apply the bearberry leaf salve to the skin as needed, focusing on areas that are irritated, dry, or in need of gentle care. Remember, this salve is for external use only.
Sweet Wormwood (Artemisia annua)
This plant, with its silvery-green leaves and aromatic qualities, is known in various cultures for its ability to heal, protect, and mystify.
Physically, wormwood is a powerhouse of medicinal benefits. It's been used to stimulate digestion, combat parasites, and alleviate fever and pain. Its bitter compounds, particularly thujone, are known to stimulate the digestive system as well.
As we emerge from the introspection and stillness of winter, wormwood supports our body's transition, mirroring the budding life around us.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, wormwood takes on a slightly different role, being used in moxibustion to promote healing through warmth and circulation. The practice involves burning wormwood near or on the skin, facilitating the flow of Qi (energy) and blood, and expelling cold from the body.
African and Indigenous medicinal practices also recognize wormwood's significance, though their emphasis focuses on its spiritual cleansing properties, and its role in rituals and protection against evil spirits. It's also been a key ingredient in absinthe, a spirit as infamous for its hallucinogenic properties as it is celebrated for its association with artists and creatives of the 19th and early 20th centuries. This connection to creativity and the transcendent really shows us wormwood's ability to touch the spiritual realm!
HOW TO USE IT: Wormwood Insect Spray
Place 1/2 cup dried wormwood leaves in a large jar or bowl. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over the leaves, ensuring they are completely submerged.
Cover the jar or bowl with a lid or plate and let the mixture steep for at least 24 hours. This long infusion time allows the water to become fully infused with the wormwood's aromatic and repellent properties.
After steeping, strain the liquid through a strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bowl, removing all the solid parts of the wormwood. Compost or discard the leaves.
If you're using essential oils, add a few drops to the strained liquid. Essential oils can enhance the repellent effect and make the spray more pleasant to use.
Pour the prepared liquid into a spray bottle. If you do not have a spray bottle, any clean bottle with a tight-sealing lid will work, though you will need to dab the solution onto your skin or surfaces rather than spray.
Spray the wormwood repellent onto your skin, avoiding sensitive areas such as eyes and mouth. It can also be sprayed on clothing or around doorways and windows to deter pests. Reapply as needed, especially if you are spending a long time outdoors.
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
Indigenous cultures, particularly those from Australia where the eucalyptus tree originates, have long understood this tree's medicine.
Among some cultures, it's believed that the eucalyptus tree houses the spirits of ancestors, offering protection and guidance.
They have traditionally used eucalyptus leaves for wound healing, to ward off evil spirits, and in ceremonial cleansing practices, highlighting its role in fostering both physical health and spiritual harmony.
Its ability to purify the air and uplift the spirit is so helpful as nature awakens and we do too!
HOW TO USE IT: Eucalyptus Steam
Bring a pot of water to a boil and then remove it from the heat.
Add a handful of fresh eucalyptus leaves (or a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil) to the water.
Lean over the pot, drape a towel over your head and the pot to trap the steam, and inhale deeply for 5-10 minutes. This practice can help clear your mind, invigorate your senses, and support respiratory health, making it a perfect ritual for embracing the vitality of spring and the fiery energy of Aries season.
Galangal Root (Alpinia galanga)
Galangal is valued for its ability to regulate the vital life force that flows through the body. By harmonizing the stomach and spleen meridians, it helps in ensuring the smooth flow of energy to get us ready for a new cycle.
Traditionally, galangal has been utilized in all kinds of ways, from culinary spices that add a distinct flavor to dishes, to medicinal brews and poultices.
Its use in teas, for example, is a common remedy for colds, digestion issues, and to invigorate the senses.
RECIPE: Coconut Galangal Soup
In a large pot, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Stir in grated galangal, carrot, and red bell pepper, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
Pour in vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Add coconut milk and soy sauce (or tamari), and stir well. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5 minutes, making sure it's heated through but not boiling.
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of chili flakes if you like a bit of extra heat.
Prickly Ash (Sichuan Pepper)
Prickly ash, known scientifically as Zanthoxylum, is a genus of plants that belongs to the Rutaceae family. Among this are the species known for producing Sichuan peppers, which are native to the Sichuan province of China and other parts of Asia.
Sichuan peppercorns, despite their name, are not true peppercorns like black or white pepper. Instead, they are the dried husks of the seeds from these Zanthoxylum species. This numbing effect is due to the presence of hydroxy-alpha sanshool, a compound that interacts with the nerve endings in the lips and mouth, creating a unique sensation that is characteristic of Sichuan cuisine.
Physically, prickly ash is hailed for its ability to stimulate the body and get us moving! In TCM, it is known as a herb that moves Qi, the vital life force, helping to awaken the body's dormant energies and alleviate stagnation. This makes it an excellent remedy for conditions like circulatory disorders, chronic pain, and digestive issues. The African and Indigenous traditions similarly acknowledge its power to revitalize the physical body, often using it to boost immunity, enhance vitality, and stimulate healing. On a spiritual level, prickly ash is believed to cleanse and protect. Its fiery nature is thought to burn away negative energies and purify the aura, making it a favored herb in rituals and ceremonies aimed at spiritual healing and protection.
RECIPE: Sichuan Pepper Chicken
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and stir-fry until they're just cooked through. Remove the chicken from the wok and set aside.
In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Lower the heat to medium and add Sichuan peppercorns. Stir-fry for about a minute until fragrant—be careful not to burn them. Add dried chilies and stir for another 30 seconds.
Add minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the spring onions to the wok. Stir-fry for about a minute until you can smell the aromatics.
Return the chicken to the wok. Stir in soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Chinese rice wine, a pinch of sugar (if using), and salt to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and the chicken is coated in the sauce.
Sprinkle the green parts of the spring onions over the chicken right before serving. Give everything a final stir and then transfer to a serving dish.
Pine Pollen (Pinus spp.)
Pine pollen is used for its ability to boost energy levels, improve our endurance, and make us feel stronger and healthier.
And its adaptogenic properties help in regulating the body's response to stress, supporting adrenal function, and keeping our hormones balanced. Great goals for this season!
The timing of its use during spring also coincides with the liver's natural period of detoxification, helping us with the cleansing process.
RECIPE: Pine Pollen Smoothie
Blend together a ripe banana, a handful of spinach, a cup of almond milk (or any milk of your choice), a tablespoon of pine pollen, honey, and a few ice cubes.
Herbal Recipes for Fire
