May 1 2012

May is highlighted by two of the most significant cycles of the year, with the first of two solar eclipses and Venus turning retrograde. We will also have another grand earth trine in mid-month. The focus on Gemini makes this a critical period for examining our sources of information, beliefs and patterns of communication. The secondary focus on earth signs encourages us to express our values and ideas in tangible ways in the outer world.
The month begins under the waxing April New Moon in Taurus, with a focus on personal finances/resources and taking a more practical, patient approach.

On May 2-3, a favorable sextile aspect assists us with resolving any conflicts and creating harmonious communication.

On May 5 the Full Moon occurs at 16 Scorpio. Scorpio traits include being powerful, intense, resourceful, penetrating, controlling, compulsive and secretive. This lunation is also a Super Moon in opposition to Jupiter and Ceres, which heightens the intensity over the next few weeks, while a Mercury/Saturn opposition increases the need for control. Also favored is in-depth research that uncovers hidden secrets, enabling us to gain a more truthful perspective. The Ceres focus can reveal new ways we can support and care for ourselves, each other and the earth. The Sabian symbols for these degrees in Scorpio/Taurus encourage us to be true to our own higher ideals.

On May 13 the Sun aligns with Jupiter at 23 Taurus, providing us with abundant optimism and an expansive viewpoint. This transit favors all educational and writing/publishing pursuits. From May 13-16, an earth grand trine pattern occurs between Mercury in Taurus, Mars in Virgo and Pluto in Capricorn. This pattern will help us put our creative ideas into tangible forms that will lead to gaining more prosperity.

Venus turns retrograde on May 15 at 24 Gemini. This cycle will last until June 27, allowing us time to re-evaluate our personal resources, values and relationships. These areas are influenced by outer sources of information (Gemini), such as the media, family and friends. This cycle provides us with an opportunity to re-evaluate our own inner truth about them and how best to express our ideals and needs. On May 15 a difficult Mars/Saturn aspect can cause some temporary frustration. It would be best to not make any important decisions or purchases during the day before and after May 15, if possible.

The New Moon Solar Eclipse occurs on May 20 at 0 Gemini 21. The eclipse increases the potency of this new moon and the likelihood of major changes that can happen this month (and up to six or more months from this date). If it aligns with a personal planet in one’s chart, that will indicate an important area of change this year. Gemini rules our sources of information (such as the mass media, family and friends), as well as how we perceive, communicate and learn. Gemini traits include being versatile, flexible, articulate and quick-witted; the shadow side is being superficial and scattered. The alignment with optimistic Jupiter helps us to dream on a larger scale, but the challenging aspect to Neptune warns of deception and illusion. The Sabian symbol for this degree, “A glass-bottomed boat reveals undersea wonders; the revelation of unconscious energies and submerged psychic structures,” suggests that we may have hidden gifts and potentials that lie waiting to unfold as we experience and integrate the newer frequencies and dimensions.

The harmonious Mercury/Jupiter alignment on May 21 brings a new optimism to our thinking and communications. Abundant opportunities can manifest now, along with creative energy for new projects. On May 25, the Mercury/Neptune square can bring temporary confusion and possible errors in details. However, unique and innovative improvements can be made on May 27-28 with the favorable Sun/Mercury/Uranus alignment. Blessings for a prosperous month!

June features a rare Venus transit across the Sun. Stay tuned!