Astrology for May
Transformative Visions
Susan Heinz, Astrologer
Music of the Spheres
(June 1& 2, Join Susan’s workshop for understanding the powers of the unique Venus lineup with the Sun)
Astrology for May:
May brings the beauty of the Taurean time of year, the first blossoming of nature. Beauty and creativity are at the heart of Taurus, the sign of manifesting. As John O’Donahue writes, “We are created to be creators. At its deepest heart, creativity is meant to serve and evoke beauty. When this desire and capacity come alive, new wells spring up in 
parched ground; difficulty becomes invitation and rather than striving against the grain of our nature, we fall into rhythm with its deepest urgency and passion.” This is the potential of Taurus in this intense year of transitions, death and renewal. “Difficulty becomes an invitation!”
May 1st marks the midpoint between Spring and Summer as we turn the wheel of 2012. May Day is a portal to our ancient lineage of respecting the powers of fertility, a call to stop our busy lives, for a day, come to our senses, and feel the beauty of this planet.
The full moon takes place on May 5th, known as the Wesak Moon, honoring the day of Buddha’s enlightenment. During this full moon it is said that a directed energy of light comes to earth, and meditation is enhanced. “Meditation at Wesak creates a balance between the lower self and the Higher Self.”
This month we can consciously set the stage to align with greater perspectives that hold the tension of this time as a bridge to transformation. We are passing through patterns of conditioning, extremes of polarity and conflictual belief systems. Our mindfulness during this time is a container through which rebirth happens. “Saving the world means holding the darkness and light together, not rejecting one and claiming the other…that’s a rule on this earth where joy and despair appear on every threshold and secretly attend the opening of each door.” Michael Meade
The Sun aligns with Jupiter on the 13th, at 23 Taurus, bringing forth blessings, abundance and positive energies. A grand earth trine forms with Mercury, Pluto and Mars allowing for powerful communications to transform situations or heated responses to destroy possibilities.
Venus goes retrograde on May 16th in Gemini, (until June 27th), beginning a powerful Venusian influence, with the potential to assist humanity in moving beyond polarization. Venus, with its rare extended stay in Gemini, the Twins, supports mending the shadow elements of ourselves into greater wholeness. The Mayans and many ancient cultures tracked the unique and unusual movement of Venus in front of the Sun that will take place in June 5th. This follows a powerful Lunar Eclipse, and reappearance on June 13th as the morning star. With Venus retrograde we are asked to reflect on our quality of life, on our relationships and incorporating that which is split off or repressed. May is a very potent preparation time for the strong energies of June, July and August.
The Sun enters the sign of the twins, Gemini, on May 20, followed by a Solar eclipse on the same day, the first eclipse of the 21st century moving through the U.S., last, 1994). Many people experience exhaustion because the energies are so intense. The effects of eclipses are like shining a beam of light on issues that have been hidden or ignored and now must be dealt with.
Twelve opportunities for May:
Aries (Mar 20-Apr 19): This month you make a sudden leap forward after feeling stalled. It may feel like many situations are unfolding at once. For best results, manage your time wisely, otherwise, situations get stressful. Your finances look more promising and work becomes more rewarding. With Venus retrograde this month, practice mindfulness and bring thoughtfulness to all communications.
Taurus (Apr 20-May 20): May is a very productive month for you. There is strengthening and clarifying of your intention and goals. You are especially industrious and can transform many situations in your life now. Thinking positive brings desired results. Review your finances and ask yourself if there is a balanced flow of giving and receiving in your life.
Gemini (May 21-Jun 20): Take time at the beginning of May to quietly reflect on this last year and where you are heading. Go to nature for her restorative and curative powers. Release the old stories that populate your life. Attend to home projects and domestic issues. This can unfold into a loving and creative time. Forgive yourself and honor the creative person you are.
Cancer (Jun 21–Jul 21): Have you been feeling stuck for awhile? Situations can now transform rapidly. Friends are helpful and want to support you emotionally. Meditation, yoga, spiritual teachings are particularly helpful now. A secret love or old friend may reappear in your life. Consider the bigger meaning of your life and the quality of consciousness you are cultivating to lead you into the future.
Leo (Jul 22 – Aug 22): Early May brings enjoyment and positive shifts in work and day-to-day life. You are receiving recognition. An opportunity to grow, learn or travel comes your way. Friendships are highlighted, with the need for clear communications, otherwise misunderstandings come about.
Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22): So much is being asked of you. More busy than usual, you are in a balancing act now. Writing or a creative outlet can transform your experience. This month you review your goals with the need to reconnect with what you love. Travel is highlighted later in the month.
Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22): Gratefulness and support from others will be coming your way. You feel the benefit of financial changes you have made. You have been busy behind the scenes, clearing out things, putting things in order. Travel is highlighted the second half of the month. Take things more slowly as you process deep feelings now. It is a good month for publishing.
Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21): You feel appreciated this month, though the full moon in Scorpio, on the 5th, does bring out your sensitivities. Disengage from the drama or intensity and let your feelings stream through you as you walk or exercise. Projects with others are highly favored. Take time to value those you love, as intimacy is favored.
Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 20): Work is very busy now. You can really move ahead with goals and intentions. Mid month communication is very powerful, clear, and direct, allowing transformation of those you connect with. At the New Moon make a day for someone you love, be unscheduled and open hearted.
Capricorn (Dec 21- Jan 19): This month you journey to a place you love and enjoyment is enhanced. You feel energized and productive. People are moved by what you say and this can be a very personally creative time. Re-evaluate habits, invest in new routines. Attend to your health.
Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 17): You feel the importance of home and family. You are establishing deeper roots or greater awareness of your family, as challenges and the unexpected have affected and transformed your life. This month take time to feel the love in your life and make space to express it!
Pisces (Feb 18-Mar 19): May brings collaborative possibilities, especially as you honor the creative and spiritual forces that open us beyond what we know. Take time to bring clarity, organization, and clear intent to all endeavors. Writing projects are enhanced this month, as is enjoyment of friends and harmony within your home.