Ashwini is the first of the 27 nakshatras, lying in the first 13°20′ of Aries. Its deities are the Ashwini Kumaras, the twin horsemen who are physicians to the gods, arriving at dawn to heal and rescue. Its symbol is a horse's head, the image of speed, vitality and readiness. It is ruled by Ketu, which begins the whole Vimshottari dasha sequence.
This is a nakshatra of beginnings and quick help. It is classed as light (kshipra), favouring swift actions that should be done and finished cleanly. There is something youthful and fresh about Ashwini: it starts eagerly, acts on instinct and brings relief where it goes.