OH dark, dark, dark, amid the blaze of noon, Irrecoverably dark, total eclipse Without all hope of day!John Milton

AS Springtime on the planet signals a time of rebirth, new life bursting from old roots, and the sweet wonder of nature following its own orderly course, so too does springtime in the heavens as it offers the promises of new insights, fresh starts and the blessed comfort in observing the orderliness of change. Astrologically speaking, Spring is all about purging, a time to rethink our old patterns, a period in which to reevaluate

ARIES IS HIGHLIGHTED - ( March 20- April 19) - A direct hit for the Rams, as the eclipse takes place in your own sign. For many this can be a time where closure occurs and a new beginning emerges. In addition as it conjuncts the North node, you may feel a tremendous surge of luck, a feeling of euphoria as you begin a new chapter in your life. Flow with it, don't push back.

APRIL 8 - THE ENERGIZER BUNNY AT ITS BEST -TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE - NEW MOON TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE IN ARIES - A total Solar Eclipse happens when the Moon lies exactly between the Sun and the Earth, casting a shadow on a small patch of the earth. If you're lucky, you can see the path of "totality" as the moon slides in front of the Sun, reducing it to a crescent or even blotting the Sun out all together. It's a phenomenon to behold. The last total solar eclipse occurred in August 2017 and was visible in the US. The first Total Eclipse to pass over the continent in 100 years. Prepare to be energized, and totally alert by the New Moon Total Solar eclipse in Aries. It's all about motivation, new ideas and increased physical activity. Impatience can be an issue, so take a step back before taking on too much. Generally the effects of a New Moon begins a week before, and can last up to a week after. This is generally a great time to rid ourselves of bad habits, begin a fresh start, and re-invent yourself if need be. Those born under the sign of Aries will feel energized while those born under Libra are affected through partners, Cancer and Capricorn will feel a sense of restlessness in home and/or work similar to that of a Full Moon. Nonetheless wherever The New Moon falls in your birth chart is an indicator of where the influence is.

APRIL 23 -FULL MOON IN SCORPIO APRIL 23 - When the Full Moon occurs the gravitational pull between Moon, Earth and the Sun have a huge effect on our bodies, mind and spirit. You may begin to feel this influence as early as week prior, lasting two weeks depending on where it fell into your birth chart, and on how powerful the Moon influence is with regard to other plants. Sometimes things become more clearer as well as intense under the illumination of the Full Moon - emotions ignite, egos are inflated and though we are deeply energized by the Full Moon we need to take care when dealing with others. This particular Full Moon centers around our deepest fears, financial insecurity, job related issues, and even love relationships that go array. Nonetheless, those born under Taurus will no doubt feel the significance of this Full Moon as partnerships, both work and play are exposed. Those born under Leo and Aquarius may find themselves in a tailspin where work and home is concerned. Nonetheless, wherever it falls into your chart depends on your time of birth, indicating the intensity of this Full Moons effect.

APRIL 6- APRIL 29- VENUS, IN ARIES - Be aware that Venus in Aries can be costly if you are not aware of your finances. Not a good time to go spending as the fire influence may cause your money to itch in your pockets. Also, romance can be unpredictable, as a love connection may not have much longevity. Again, depending on the situation does count for something. However easy come easy go is the motto here. So be aware, and don't rush in.

APRIL 2- APRIL 28 - MERCURY, THE PLANET OF REASON, TURNS RETROGRADE - Retrograding in the self contained sign of Aries - A good time to rethink old patterns, old habits, letting go of matters that need resolution. Though not a good period to implement new strategies, however a good cycle in which to plan accordingly, then full speed ahead after April 27. Those born under Virgo, Gemini and Taurus may feel the confusion of this transit. Others may be affected by how it is taking place in your own charts.

HOW are you affected by April's Total Eclipse? The affects of a total eclipse can last for a few weeks.

ARIES - ( March 20- April 19) - A direct hit for the Rams, as the eclipse, along with Mercury retrograde, occurs in your own sign. For many this can be a time where closure occurs, and a new beginning emerges. In addition as it conjuncts the North node, you may feel a tremendous surge of luck, a feeling of euphoria as you begin a new chapter in your life. Though Mercury in retrograde, may have you questioning yourself. A double edge sword. Flow with it, don't push back.

TAURUS - ( April 20- May 20) - The hidden sector of your chart, that part of you that remains hidden is triggered by Mercury retrograde as well as the eclipse. With that said, you may feel a sudden need to look from within, ruminating, seeking solitude as well as reflection. If you are working on letting go of unresolved matters, this could be a time where you hopefully find solutions. Or on the flip-side, it can also lead you down a path of over thinking and over dwelling. Allow these transits to help you in unloading past trauma's that need to be put to rest. Allow it to generate you, not push you back.

GEMINI - ( May 21- June 20) - During this phenomenal eclipse your dance card is about to surge, as well as purge. You may feel a sudden need to focus on the quality of your peeps as opposed to the quantity. Your awareness of those in your inner circle is on full alert!. Questioning motives as well as intentions will occur as your inner radar magnifies. With Mercury your ruler in retrograde, you will be motivated to sift through situations that no longer serve your higher good. The Eclipse can help to push it further, where it needs to be.

CANCER -( June 21 - July 22) - With the total Eclipse hovering over the zenith part of your chart, opportunities beckon. A sudden desire and need to explore new options, to aim higher than imagined await. A stronger sense of purpose is initiated, as you shift into full gear. Stepping up your game is in your hands, though with this months eclipse lending itself, you can only excel. Though Mercury in retrograde, can also cause you to pull back. So bear with it and trust your gut.

LEO -( July 23 - Aug 22) - During this months eclipse taking place in the 9th house of higher aspirations, your mind, body and spirit reach a more elevated level of consciousness. For many, tapping into your psyche, through meditation, yoga, breath work is what this is all about. Feeling your soul's purpose from the inside out. This is a magical transit, meant for reaching your spiritual awakening. Mercury in retrograde can allow you to introspect on a much deeper level. Trust in the cosmos.

VIRGO - ( Aug 23- Sept 22) - An 8th house total eclipse is monumental, tapping into money received as well as provided. This could relate to an investment of some kind, the lottery, or a settlement. It's about establishing a balance of some sort. No matter what, it's about finances, coming in or going out. However, most of the time, it is extremely favorable, though with Mercury, your ruler, conjunct the eclipse, you may need to rethink financial strategy.

LIBRA - ( Sept 23- Oct 22) - This particular eclipse settles in the union area of your chart. Your need for partnerships, love or work, is clearly part of your mantra. It's all about connecting. However, during this total eclipse, you may suddenly find yourself less tolerant, more uncomfortable with substandard relationships. It's all about your need to create more of a healthy balance. Let it speak to you! Though on the flip side as Mercury retrogrades your area of partners, you may feel a bit hesitant in making any moves. On one level you are inspired, on another level, you're cautious. Trust your inner voice.

SCORPIO - ( Oct 23- Nov 21) - Your health is the focus during this particular eclipse. Focusing on fitness goals, working towards accomplishing what you set out to do, and getting it right! The also places importance on your area of work, as your sense of responsibilities increase. Though you may be reluctant to make changes, this period could inspire you. Mercury's retrograde conjunction to the eclipse can have you wavering back and forth, so stick to what you need to do.

SAGITTARIUS - ( Nov 22- DEC 21) - Matters of the heart ignite during this lunation in your 5th house of love is inspired. For all you archers whether you're in a relationship or not, remaining open and receptive to see where you land. Sometimes this transit can awaken your more creative side, or if the desire for expanding your family should come about, this cycle can open the flood gates. Either way, it's all about creating. However not the best time to chance, take, step back and give yourself a breather.

CAPRICORN -( DEC 22- Jan 19) - Home and your inner sanctuary is triggering a need to either isolate, improve your current situation and/or make changes that will inspire your need for growth. This particular eclipse is intense, as family matters play into the need for self understanding. Your a part of all that occurs, and you may find yourself more open. Though, with Mercury in tow, conjunct the eclipse, you may find yourself less patient than usual.

AQUARIUS - ( Jan 20- Feb 18)- Words, actions and delivery counts during this month eclipse. The light is green, and you may find yourself going full speed ahead. Your mind is working at an incredible speed, allowing you to explore new outlets such as writing, traveling, healing work & more. This can be an adventurous ride as you seek out. Though with Mercury transiting your area of chat, your words and actions may not meet. So be aware.

PISCES - ( Feb 19 - March 19 )- Much like your polar opposite sign, Virgo, finances play a major role in this months eclipse. However, you may be more prone to spending more than you allow. Your generosity has no bounds, and during this eclipse, your true giving nature may emerge. Though, stepping back, and reassessing may be your saving grace. This can also be a lucky cycle, as you be more fortune in what comes your way. Watching your finances is key at this time, be well aware of your limits.

*Janet Amid is a columnist & radio/media personality and can be heard Monday morning's 8:10 AM to 8:20 AM with Denny, Suzi, and Paul on 93.5 FM. Text or call 419-240-1935, as I take your astrological questions/requests! *

~Janet writes for TOLEDO CITY PAPER &THE SYLVANIA ADVANTAGE and can be reached at 419-882-5510 or by e-mail at JanetAmid@aol.com