MOON ASTROLOGY for May 2022
by Raven Moondance
May 1/2 is the mid-point of Spring—a Cross Quarter day, also known as Beltane—one of the eight holy days of the year. “Imagine the holy days—the solstices and equinoxes, the seasonal mid-points or cross quarter days—as sanctuaries. The original meaning of the word holy is “set apart.” Around this sacred time on the Wheel of the Yea, we surrender our engagement with the outer world, to be restored and renewed.” (We'Moon 2018, p.30) As you contemplate and appreciate the beauty of Spring unfolding around you, spend time in Nature honoring this significant time of the seasonal cycle. Breathe in the fresh air and feel yourself renewed.
During Sun in Fire sign Aries (March 20-April 19) we were inspired and our imagination was ignited
to create new plans, goals and outcomes. Now during Sun in Earth sign Taurus (April 19-May 20)
we begin to ground those grand ideas seeing them take hold in our life in a real and concrete manner.
During Taurus "the Egyptian Nile River Goddess stands in an upraised gesture of joyful blessing, drawing down transformative energies of the Moon bringing the annual floods that enriched the fields for spring planting. The temples of the Goddess may be gone, but the Magic of the Moon cannot be drained from our heart. We are all royal daughters. When we dare to create ourselves from what is truly real, choosing to become all of who we are meant to be, the sacred rivers will flow freely again, quenching our parched and thirsty souls. Each morning, stand tall with your arms upraised in a gesture of self-acceptance and certainty. Make choices that support all of who you are. Affirmation: Joy and peace of mind are within reach. I take the necessary steps to create healthy change. I focus and direct my energies on what is truly important to me."(from Goddesses for Every Season by Nancy Blair)
Open your heart and mind to the new, the different, the unique, to all those around you, to Mother Earth as we move into this new moon cycle initiated by a New Moon Solar Eclipse on April 30 with both Sun and Moon in Taurus. On a new moon both the Sun and Moon are in the same sign allowing our body, mind and spirit to align more fully. It is an inward time of self-examination and preparation for a new cycle to begin. During the first week of the moon cycle, we contemplate what we would like to manifest in the days, weeks and (with the power of the Solar Eclipse) months ahead. Utilize the 7 Day New Moon Ceremony to consistently focus on your wishes. Envision, imagine, perhaps even create a vision board or treasure map, as you think of the most positive, loving, nurturing possibilities for yourself and our world. Let peace, love and joy fill, surround and radiate from your being.
7 Day New Moon Ceremony
This ceremony is a concrete way to put your desires out to the Universe. Begin a day or two after the new moon occurs, on the night you see the first sliver of the moon. Write down or visualize what you would like to manifest. Choose a candle in a color that feels right for your vision. Then every night for 7 nights (beginning with the first appearance of the new moon) burn some sage or incense if you like, light your candle and read what you wrote or visualize what you would like to see manifest in your life. You may add to your vision throughout the 7 days. On the 8th day, burn your written vision (if you wrote one) and bury the ashes in the earth along with the remainder of your candle and any ashes from the sage or incense. Release your vision to the Universe asking for this or something better and to manifest in line with the highest good for all.
Each one of us has a role in creating the overall energy on our planet. Our thoughts, words and actions are much more important than we may think! A powerful conjunction of Jupiter and Neptune in Pisces in mid-April has been creating waves of consciousness shifting energy for a while now and will continue to do so. The consciousness of our planet is indeed evolving! When we look around at the world it may not feel like it, but the more light that flows onto our planet bringing upliftment, the more those actions, behaviors and beliefs that truly do not serve humankind are brought into our awareness. Do not allow yourself to get caught up in the negativity, fear and separateness. Instead, focus on love, harmony, unity and pray for the highest for all beings, our nation and our world.
Jupiter is the planet of expansion, spirituality and blessings. Neptune rules the oceans, our deepest emotions, imagination and psychic abilities. Pisces is a water sign and the last signof the zodiac encouraging us to let go of ego and merge with higher states of consciousness.
What does this Jupiter/Neptune conjunction really mean to us here on earth? The positive expression of this magical, mystical very high-level energy has the potential to magnify our manifesting abilities; enhance our psychic sensitivity and telepathic abilities; give us a desire to have more spiritual meaning in our lives; and strengthen our telepathic connection with others and even other species. Have you been noticing how quickly your thoughts are manifesting lately? Have you felt more tuned in to others? to nature? to your pets? Are you having more moments when you just know who is going to call or what may happen next?
The high vibratory frequency of Jupiter/Neptune also opens our minds and hearts to step into a deeper level of spiritual service as we envision a positive future for our planet. This powerful conjunction can shift our frequency quickly towards establishing the New Earth and each one of us has a role in creating the New Earth beginning with our thoughts, prayers and the intentions we set, especially with each new moon. Now may be the time for you to step more fully into your role or soul's path! Ask your Angels, Spirit Guides, Ancestors, God/Goddess for any guidance, insight or clarity you may need regarding your path. They are there for you!
May 10-June 2, 2022--Mercury goes Retrograde The Universe is indeed perfection! While we are given opportunities to garner insight, make choices and move forward, we are also given times on a very regular basis to rest, re-group, re-evaluate and contemplate so that we may assimilate and download the quickly changing energies we are experiencing every day. The motion of the planets gives us regular periods of “downtime” that can be consciously utilized to our advantage.
The planets periodically go into Retrograde motion—when a planet gives the illusion of moving backwards from our perspective here on Earth. When in Retrograde, the planet goes back over what has recently occurred, giving us a chance to re-examine, re-work and perhaps see situations from a different perspective. When the planet then goes into Direct motion, we again go over the same “stuff” perhaps finally working through, completing or cleaning up projects or situations. During a Retrograde, we are asked to examine more closely and carefully whatever that particular planet governs. We are most familiar with Mercury Retro which usually elicits moans about how it will muck up the works. Mercury goes into Retro three times a year and governs all types of communication and mechanical devices. During this time, it is helpful to be aware in order to consciously work with the energies being offered. It a break from outward communication and an opportunity to bring our focus to what is occurring within our mind, emotions and heart. Yes, we still have to work and take care of business, but detach a bit, do your best and trust that all will work out as it is meant to--no need to worry, remember to breathe and flow with it.
April 29-October 8, 2022--Pluto in Retrograde in Capricorn
Pluto, the planet of transformation digs deep into our consciousness and the structures of our world to unearth and expose what is no longer viable, workable or supporting the highest expression of who we are as individuals and a society. Old wounds may resurface for cleansing and healing. Pluto may initiate breakdowns, disruptions and destruction as a way to create positive change, transforming our world in so many needed ways as we shift from the Age of Pisces to the Age of Aquarius. Notice what surfaces for you personally. Do the work needed to release and heal. See it as a gift to strengthen and expand who you truly are!
May16--FULL MOON LUNAR ECLIPSE in Scorpio/Taurus--a time for balancing polarities as the Sun and Moon are in opposite signs. “With the Sun in Taurus directly opposite the Moon in Scorpio there is a tension between calm solidity (Taurus) and intense passion (Scorpio). Taurus and Scorpio are both “fixed” signs. Taurus is fixed Earth (body) and Scorpio is fixed water (soul). When in balance, Taurus calms and grounds the intensity of Scorpio, and Scorpio brings some spiciness and passion to Taurus. Since they are both fixed signs, there can sometimes be a tug of war between them, with neither giving up.” (Perspectives from the Sky by Leo Knighton Tallarico) Tug of war, inflexibility, power, control, holding onto to old patterns?
As we continue to integrate the full moon energies; how do you see these energies playing out in your life and in our world? Eclipses tend to intensify whatever is occurring and often reveals what may be hidden under the surface, may expose untruths and shed more light onto what is real and what is not. Utilize the 7 Day Full Moon Meditation Focus to ground and center yourself and as a way to consciously work with the energies being showered upon us.
****7 Day FULL MOON Meditation Focus*****
**Begin on Friday, May 13**
Friday, May 13 is the first day of our Meditation focus. Affirm your faith and trust that the Universe is guiding you in whatever it is you are working on or that you are generally being guided in life at this time.
Saturday--a day of upliftment--think positive thoughts, sending love and light to everyone and the earth. Smile more and
see the Divine aspect of everyone! Yes, even in that one!
Sunday--dedicate yourself to your path, whatever it may be! Note the little things may happen on this day guiding you to
your true work!
Full Moon Day!!! Monday, May 16--Be positive, observe any insights, dreams, experiences and take deep breaths. Try not to make any important decisions today, especially on impulse. Pray for the highest to unfold in our world, sending light to our leaders and all those in need!
Allow the energies of the full moon to gradually become absorbed, integrated and processed over the next three days. Then, feel more confident to make decisions with greater awareness and clarity.
Notice any shifts in the overall energy as the Sun moves from grounded fixed Earth sign Taurus into mutable Air sign Gemini in the days after May 21. SUN in GEMINI (May 20-June 20) “Cross pollinate. Under Mutable Air Gemini we scatter our thoughts to the wind, germinate ideas and learn to communicate with our sisters and brothers. Breadth and versatility of ideas is a Gemini gift; we need to bring depth and concentration.” (We'Moon 2016, p.13) As an Air sign, Gemini brings our attention to thoughts, communication, writing, speaking and ideas encouraging us to investigate, contemplate and create. As a Mutable sign, during Gemini we are more adaptable and find it easier to make a transition from old paradigms to something more relevant for today.
Love, Light and Blessings from Raven
Raven Moondance (aka Shenna Benarte) has been working with Grandmother Moon through ceremony and self-exploration
for over 30 years. Aligning with the lunar cycle has facilitated all aspects of my life from teaching yoga, to Shamanic and Reiki Healing, to Energy Clearing and Feng Shui. Raven is the director of The Sacred Earth Center in Gainesville and can be contacted at moondance_raven@hotmail.com
by Raven Moondance
May 1/2 is the mid-point of Spring—a Cross Quarter day, also known as Beltane—one of the eight holy days of the year. “Imagine the holy days—the solstices and equinoxes, the seasonal mid-points or cross quarter days—as sanctuaries. The original meaning of the word holy is “set apart.” Around this sacred time on the Wheel of the Yea, we surrender our engagement with the outer world, to be restored and renewed.” (We'Moon 2018, p.30) As you contemplate and appreciate the beauty of Spring unfolding around you, spend time in Nature honoring this significant time of the seasonal cycle. Breathe in the fresh air and feel yourself renewed.
During Sun in Fire sign Aries (March 20-April 19) we were inspired and our imagination was ignited
to create new plans, goals and outcomes. Now during Sun in Earth sign Taurus (April 19-May 20)
we begin to ground those grand ideas seeing them take hold in our life in a real and concrete manner.
During Taurus "the Egyptian Nile River Goddess stands in an upraised gesture of joyful blessing, drawing down transformative energies of the Moon bringing the annual floods that enriched the fields for spring planting. The temples of the Goddess may be gone, but the Magic of the Moon cannot be drained from our heart. We are all royal daughters. When we dare to create ourselves from what is truly real, choosing to become all of who we are meant to be, the sacred rivers will flow freely again, quenching our parched and thirsty souls. Each morning, stand tall with your arms upraised in a gesture of self-acceptance and certainty. Make choices that support all of who you are. Affirmation: Joy and peace of mind are within reach. I take the necessary steps to create healthy change. I focus and direct my energies on what is truly important to me."(from Goddesses for Every Season by Nancy Blair)
Open your heart and mind to the new, the different, the unique, to all those around you, to Mother Earth as we move into this new moon cycle initiated by a New Moon Solar Eclipse on April 30 with both Sun and Moon in Taurus. On a new moon both the Sun and Moon are in the same sign allowing our body, mind and spirit to align more fully. It is an inward time of self-examination and preparation for a new cycle to begin. During the first week of the moon cycle, we contemplate what we would like to manifest in the days, weeks and (with the power of the Solar Eclipse) months ahead. Utilize the 7 Day New Moon Ceremony to consistently focus on your wishes. Envision, imagine, perhaps even create a vision board or treasure map, as you think of the most positive, loving, nurturing possibilities for yourself and our world. Let peace, love and joy fill, surround and radiate from your being.
7 Day New Moon Ceremony
This ceremony is a concrete way to put your desires out to the Universe. Begin a day or two after the new moon occurs, on the night you see the first sliver of the moon. Write down or visualize what you would like to manifest. Choose a candle in a color that feels right for your vision. Then every night for 7 nights (beginning with the first appearance of the new moon) burn some sage or incense if you like, light your candle and read what you wrote or visualize what you would like to see manifest in your life. You may add to your vision throughout the 7 days. On the 8th day, burn your written vision (if you wrote one) and bury the ashes in the earth along with the remainder of your candle and any ashes from the sage or incense. Release your vision to the Universe asking for this or something better and to manifest in line with the highest good for all.
Each one of us has a role in creating the overall energy on our planet. Our thoughts, words and actions are much more important than we may think! A powerful conjunction of Jupiter and Neptune in Pisces in mid-April has been creating waves of consciousness shifting energy for a while now and will continue to do so. The consciousness of our planet is indeed evolving! When we look around at the world it may not feel like it, but the more light that flows onto our planet bringing upliftment, the more those actions, behaviors and beliefs that truly do not serve humankind are brought into our awareness. Do not allow yourself to get caught up in the negativity, fear and separateness. Instead, focus on love, harmony, unity and pray for the highest for all beings, our nation and our world.
Jupiter is the planet of expansion, spirituality and blessings. Neptune rules the oceans, our deepest emotions, imagination and psychic abilities. Pisces is a water sign and the last signof the zodiac encouraging us to let go of ego and merge with higher states of consciousness.
What does this Jupiter/Neptune conjunction really mean to us here on earth? The positive expression of this magical, mystical very high-level energy has the potential to magnify our manifesting abilities; enhance our psychic sensitivity and telepathic abilities; give us a desire to have more spiritual meaning in our lives; and strengthen our telepathic connection with others and even other species. Have you been noticing how quickly your thoughts are manifesting lately? Have you felt more tuned in to others? to nature? to your pets? Are you having more moments when you just know who is going to call or what may happen next?
The high vibratory frequency of Jupiter/Neptune also opens our minds and hearts to step into a deeper level of spiritual service as we envision a positive future for our planet. This powerful conjunction can shift our frequency quickly towards establishing the New Earth and each one of us has a role in creating the New Earth beginning with our thoughts, prayers and the intentions we set, especially with each new moon. Now may be the time for you to step more fully into your role or soul's path! Ask your Angels, Spirit Guides, Ancestors, God/Goddess for any guidance, insight or clarity you may need regarding your path. They are there for you!
May 10-June 2, 2022--Mercury goes Retrograde The Universe is indeed perfection! While we are given opportunities to garner insight, make choices and move forward, we are also given times on a very regular basis to rest, re-group, re-evaluate and contemplate so that we may assimilate and download the quickly changing energies we are experiencing every day. The motion of the planets gives us regular periods of “downtime” that can be consciously utilized to our advantage.
The planets periodically go into Retrograde motion—when a planet gives the illusion of moving backwards from our perspective here on Earth. When in Retrograde, the planet goes back over what has recently occurred, giving us a chance to re-examine, re-work and perhaps see situations from a different perspective. When the planet then goes into Direct motion, we again go over the same “stuff” perhaps finally working through, completing or cleaning up projects or situations. During a Retrograde, we are asked to examine more closely and carefully whatever that particular planet governs. We are most familiar with Mercury Retro which usually elicits moans about how it will muck up the works. Mercury goes into Retro three times a year and governs all types of communication and mechanical devices. During this time, it is helpful to be aware in order to consciously work with the energies being offered. It a break from outward communication and an opportunity to bring our focus to what is occurring within our mind, emotions and heart. Yes, we still have to work and take care of business, but detach a bit, do your best and trust that all will work out as it is meant to--no need to worry, remember to breathe and flow with it.
April 29-October 8, 2022--Pluto in Retrograde in Capricorn
Pluto, the planet of transformation digs deep into our consciousness and the structures of our world to unearth and expose what is no longer viable, workable or supporting the highest expression of who we are as individuals and a society. Old wounds may resurface for cleansing and healing. Pluto may initiate breakdowns, disruptions and destruction as a way to create positive change, transforming our world in so many needed ways as we shift from the Age of Pisces to the Age of Aquarius. Notice what surfaces for you personally. Do the work needed to release and heal. See it as a gift to strengthen and expand who you truly are!
May16--FULL MOON LUNAR ECLIPSE in Scorpio/Taurus--a time for balancing polarities as the Sun and Moon are in opposite signs. “With the Sun in Taurus directly opposite the Moon in Scorpio there is a tension between calm solidity (Taurus) and intense passion (Scorpio). Taurus and Scorpio are both “fixed” signs. Taurus is fixed Earth (body) and Scorpio is fixed water (soul). When in balance, Taurus calms and grounds the intensity of Scorpio, and Scorpio brings some spiciness and passion to Taurus. Since they are both fixed signs, there can sometimes be a tug of war between them, with neither giving up.” (Perspectives from the Sky by Leo Knighton Tallarico) Tug of war, inflexibility, power, control, holding onto to old patterns?
As we continue to integrate the full moon energies; how do you see these energies playing out in your life and in our world? Eclipses tend to intensify whatever is occurring and often reveals what may be hidden under the surface, may expose untruths and shed more light onto what is real and what is not. Utilize the 7 Day Full Moon Meditation Focus to ground and center yourself and as a way to consciously work with the energies being showered upon us.
****7 Day FULL MOON Meditation Focus*****
**Begin on Friday, May 13**
Friday, May 13 is the first day of our Meditation focus. Affirm your faith and trust that the Universe is guiding you in whatever it is you are working on or that you are generally being guided in life at this time.
Saturday--a day of upliftment--think positive thoughts, sending love and light to everyone and the earth. Smile more and
see the Divine aspect of everyone! Yes, even in that one!
Sunday--dedicate yourself to your path, whatever it may be! Note the little things may happen on this day guiding you to
your true work!
Full Moon Day!!! Monday, May 16--Be positive, observe any insights, dreams, experiences and take deep breaths. Try not to make any important decisions today, especially on impulse. Pray for the highest to unfold in our world, sending light to our leaders and all those in need!
Allow the energies of the full moon to gradually become absorbed, integrated and processed over the next three days. Then, feel more confident to make decisions with greater awareness and clarity.
Notice any shifts in the overall energy as the Sun moves from grounded fixed Earth sign Taurus into mutable Air sign Gemini in the days after May 21. SUN in GEMINI (May 20-June 20) “Cross pollinate. Under Mutable Air Gemini we scatter our thoughts to the wind, germinate ideas and learn to communicate with our sisters and brothers. Breadth and versatility of ideas is a Gemini gift; we need to bring depth and concentration.” (We'Moon 2016, p.13) As an Air sign, Gemini brings our attention to thoughts, communication, writing, speaking and ideas encouraging us to investigate, contemplate and create. As a Mutable sign, during Gemini we are more adaptable and find it easier to make a transition from old paradigms to something more relevant for today.
Love, Light and Blessings from Raven
Raven Moondance (aka Shenna Benarte) has been working with Grandmother Moon through ceremony and self-exploration
for over 30 years. Aligning with the lunar cycle has facilitated all aspects of my life from teaching yoga, to Shamanic and Reiki Healing, to Energy Clearing and Feng Shui. Raven is the director of The Sacred Earth Center in Gainesville and can be contacted at moondance_raven@hotmail.com