

The month of May brings a much welcome shift from the hustle and bustle of Aries season to a more laid back, sensual approach to life.
On May 4th, the New Moon in Taurus is the perfect opportunity to plant the seeds for what you would like to grow in your life—particularly as it's related to your finances and material wealth. This energy can also show up in the form of a new talent, skill, or idea that could make you a lot of money, given your willingness to invest the time. Mercury, planet of communication, shortly follows suit entering Taurus on the 5th making Venusian themes such as art, fashion, and music the topic of discussion.
Creative expression is favored at this time and holds the potential to be a new source of revenue for you.
On May 9th, Jupiter and Pluto's harmonious aspect can bring a lucky breakthrough or a defining moment that brings positive change into a difficult situation. Venus, planet of love and money, returns home on May 15th bringing the gift of enhanced personal magnetism and sex appeal. As one of the benevolent planets, Venus loves to bring good fortune our way through new opportunities, connections, and a boost of self-esteem. Mars settles into Cancer, slowing down the momentum and giving you time to nurture yourself before we enter into one of the busiest seasons of the year. On the 18th, the Full Moon in Scorpio invites you into a transformative experience through self-exploration, your intimate connection, or a peak spiritual experience. The month wraps up with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini on the 21st, kicking off the most sociable, adventurous time of the year.
Check out what May has in store for your zodiac sign:
Aries
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The month starts off with a New Moon opening up doors for you in finance and material possessions. This is a time to think big when it comes to what you want to accomplish in the next year. Start planning for those major purchases in advance by getting your money in order. Work on a plan to pay off debt, save money, and invest to gain long-term wealth. This may also be a time to consider buying property or getting into stocks and trades. Mercury moves into Taurus on the 6th, bringing your conversation and attention to improving your financial literacy. Checking out a podcast or attending a conference can provide you with just the insight you need to solve any long-standing money issues.
A stroke of good luck may be headed your way on the 9th, granting you a much-needed breakthrough in career and social status. You may find yourself wielding more power than usual due to a sudden promotion or opportunity that could require you to guide, teach, and mentor others. On the 15th, Venus moves into her home sign Taurus, bringing lessons of self-worth into focus. This is usually a time of year in which you examine whether your love needs are being met and how you need to adjust to fill your cup. Keep in mind that self-love is the best love. Explore new ways that you can support yourself more fully. Mars moves into Cancer on the same day, forcing you to lay low and enjoy the comforts of home and family. The Full Moon on the 18th marks a powerful time of liberation from any shame and fear that keeps you from living up to your potential. By the time we enter Gemini season at the end of the month, you may be in a position to share your transformative experience through written or spoken word. Giving a voice to your shadow is where the healing begins.
Taurus
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Happy birthday to youuuu! It's your season, baby! The New Moon on the 4th is a powerful new beginning for you so make the most of this. You only get one new moon every year, making this a good time to map out what you'd like to accomplish in your next year around the Sun. Mercury moves into your sign on the 6th, blessing you with the gift of gab. Keep in mind that you'll catch more flies with honey. On the 9th, a peak intimate experience can unlock your coochie chakras giving you a completely new outlook on life. On the 15th, your ruling planet returns to her home sign. Use this extra attention you're receiving to attract all of the right elements that you need to experience the most spectacular year yet.
Mars moves into Cancer on the same day, making you even more lazy -- I mean "laid back" -- than usual. This energy can be a little passive-aggressive and sibling rivalries are likely to come to the surface at this time. You can be direct without being an asshole. Embrace healthy conflict-resolution. The Full Moon on the 18th highlights your relationships, particularly marriage or business partnerships. You may decide to leave a situation that isn't working for you or you may finally experience the breakthrough you need to bring a relationship back into harmony. The month wraps up with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini, encouraging you to get out there and connect. You may just be one social networking mixer away from meeting your new investor or business partner.
Gemini
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May is typically a more lowkey month for you, Gemmie. There's a ton of action going on in Taurus, which brings your focus to your inner-world for the first couple weeks. The New Moon on the 4th enhances your dream world. Pay attention to any messages that you're receiving around this time as they contain key information helping you tap into past-life gifts and talents. Mercury, your ruling planet, moves into Taurus on the 6th, making you more curious about Venusian themes like art, music, and fashion. This is a good time to watch a documentary about your fav musician or pick up a new hobby that you can enjoy in your solitude. On the 9th, good luck comes your way through a key relationship that provides you with a lighter approach to releasing a heavy emotional burden.
On the 15th, Venus moves into Taurus and love matters take on a more private approach with you preferring to spend time at home and in the bedroom. Mars moves into Cancer on the same day, encouraging you to see the value in your talents by actually doing something with them. The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 18th illuminates your daily routines, health, and work. You may receive some news around this time that motivates you to make some changes in one of these areas of your life. Work-life imbalances will likely come to a head, encouraging you to make some changes in the way you manage your time. The month closes out with the Sun and Mercury moving into your sign, giving you a much-needed boost of energy that you'll need for your birthday season.
Cancer
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The month begins with a New Moon in Taurus on the 4th, bringing your focus to your social network and big hopes and dreams. This is a favorable time to collaborate with the right people that can help turn your vision into reality. On the 6th, Mercury moves into materially-driven Taurus, making this the perfect energy for strategizing about how you and your tribe will make your mark on the world. When it comes to these money moves, Jupiter and Pluto favor you around the 9th in regards to a business partnership or work connection that may offer the breakthrough you've been banking on.
Venus moves into Taurus on the 15th, which could surprisingly have you crushing on someone in your circle of friends. If you're open to love, going to a networking event or joining a charitable organization can be a great way to meet someone who shares common interests. Mars moves into your sign on the same day, giving you a much-needed boost of energy and confidence. Your temper may be running short during this transit so find healthy ways to release your anger. The Full Moon in your sister sign, Scorpio, heightens romance and fertility, making the 18th the perfect sultry date night. Healing through creative expression is also favored during this time. The month wraps up with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini on the 21st, inviting you to rest, reflect and close out cycles before your solar return.
Leo
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Career and social status are highlighted for the first few weeks of May with the New Moon in Taurus on the 4th bringing in an opportunity that could benefit you in the long run. Mercury moves into Taurus on the 6th and there could be an important conversation with higher-ups around this time. If you've been proving yourself as an asset on the job, you may finally be receiving the recognition that you've been waiting for. A stroke of good luck can spice up your love life around the 9th and you may find yourself under the spell of a workplace romance. Venus, planet of love and money, moves into a favorable position for you on the 15th that will help you attract all types of good fortune and opportunities when it comes to your career advancement. You could even be attracting someone in a position of authority.
Mars moves into Cancer on the same day, heating things up behind the scenes. Your bedroom will be getting a lot of attention over the next month, whether you're enjoying the company of your lover or just catching up on some sleep. The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 18th illuminates themes of home and family. This can be a powerful time of releasing ancestral karma particularly related to the mother and maternal figures. This time can also indicate you relocating from one place to another. The month closes out with the Sun and Mercury, moving into sociable Gemini making you the center of attention amongst all of your friends.
Virgo
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The month starts off with an exciting New Moon in your sister sign, Taurus, taking place on the 4th in a part of your chart that has to do with higher learning and travel. You may consider going to school or simply indulging in your own personal research about a topic of interest. Mercury moves into this same part of your sky around the 6th and you are itching to soak up as much knowledge as you can. An interest in foreign cultures and different spiritual practices is common around this time. If you're traveling, you could meet an interesting companion that opens your mind to a different way of life. On the 9th, Jupiter and Pluto support positive breakthrough in areas related to family and your childhood. Around this time, you'll find it easier to embrace personal self-expression and you may feel like you have a voice after years of being silenced throughout your youth.
On the 15th, Venus moves into Taurus and you're more inclined to connect with people that stimulate you intellectually and even spiritually. If you're looking for a new money opportunity, consider what knowledge you have that others don't. Others may be seeking you out for guidance more than usual during this transit. Mars moves into Cancer the same day, bringing your focus to nurturing your social life and your big aspirations that could use a little more team effort. On the 18th, the Full Moon in Scorpio encourages you to be mindful of your projections and journal it out instead! The month closes out with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini bringing your focus to the career moves you plan on making over the next few weeks.
Libra
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A lot of the action this month takes place in a part of your sky that has to do with intimacy, healing, and deep transformation. The New Moon in Taurus on the 4th represents the beginning of this metamorphosis that you're undergoing. On the 6th, Mercury moves into Taurus, making you even more open to this period of soul-searching that you're in. An interest in psychology, the occult, and shadow work is likely around this time. You may even consider committing to therapy if you need some support working through a complex issue. On the 9th, an opportunity to express your truth can help you release any long-standing mommy issues. Love and romance gets deep this month with Venus attracting people and experiences to you that either trigger the hell out of you or help you heal some of your lingering emotional wounds.
Mars moves into Cancer on the 15th, making you a force to be reckoned with when it comes to your career aspirations. It's important to show people that you're in control but avoid being overly aggressive. A more gentle approach can be just as impactful for your reputation and advancement. The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 18th can illuminate a money drain, making this a good time to review your bank statement. This energy is also powerful for helping you release stagnant emotions related to an experience that damaged your self-esteem. The month closes off on a lighter note with your sister sign, Gemini, moving into a part of your chart that will bring about travel and learning opportunities.
Scorpio
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The month begins with a New Moon in your opposite sign on the 4th, bringing your focus to relationships. This energy supports any long-term commitment or business partnership that you're beginning. Mercury moves into Taurus on the 6th and the conversations over the next month will revolve around your key partnerships. You may be taking things to the next level with your significant other or even signing a contract with a new employer. A lucky financial break may come your way around the 9th so make sure you're staying on top of your emails and communication around this time.
On the 15th, Venus returns home and love takes center stage for you. When the planet of love is in this part of your sky, you'll appear even more attractive than usual. Expect to receive tons of attention from people interested in you romantically and even professionally. The cosmos is extremely supportive of bringing you together with someone special during this transit. Mars moves into Cancer on the same day and the wanderlust kicks in. Traveling home or to a place that brings you comfort can be just what your heart needs right now. On the 18th, the Full Moon in your sign is a powerful catalyst for releasing residual pain and trauma that inhibits you from being more real with yourself and with others. It's time to take off the mask and reveal who you are underneath your perpetual state of being unbothered. The month winds down with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini as you continue unraveling the complexities of how your experiences have shaped you into the person you are today.
Sagittarius
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This month brings most of your focus to improving your health with the New Moon on the 4th encouraging you to start a new habit or routine that can benefit your physical well-being. Mercury moves into Taurus on the 6th, motivating you to learn about new approaches to improving your health. Explore different forms of exercise and approaches to your nutrition that can help you live a better lifestyle. On the 9th, a financial stroke of good luck may come your way. If you've dealt with long-standing issues about your self-esteem or money mindset, this energy can provide a positive breakthrough that sets you on a path of deeper self-love and a greater abundance.
On the 15th, Venus moves into her home sign, Taurus, which is helping you attract opportunities and connections that actually benefit the lifestyle changes you're making throughout the month. Making sound choices about the energy you want to engage with can benefit your overall health and well-being. Mars moves into Cancer on the same day, motivating you to work through your mommy issues and intimacy blockages. On the 18th, the Full Moon in Scorpio enhances your psychic abilities and dream world. Pay attention to the messages you receive around this time, which may actually be prophetic. The month closes out with the Sun and Mercury moving into your opposite sign, making the next few weeks all about your key relationships and the important connections you'll be making during the most sociable season of the year.
Capricorn
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This month brings most of your focus to romance, creativity, and self-expression. It's time to let your hair down and have some fun. As one of the hardest working signs of the zodiac, you have a tendency to neglect your inner child the most. The New Moon in Taurus on the 4th invites you to play with this forgotten aspect of yourself. What new (or old) hobby can you partake in that brings you joy? On the 6th, Mercury moves into the same part of your sky and your mind is overflowing with creative inspiration. During this transit you may create one of your greatest masterpieces to date. Positive breakthrough takes place around the 9th, providing a sense of relief when it comes to a tough habit or lesson you've been trying to come to terms with.
On the 15th, Venus returns home to Taurus making you super sexy and alluring. If you've been experiencing a love drought, get out there! This is one of the most favorable times of year for you to enjoy the adventure of romance. Mars moves into your opposite sign on the same day, which can make you a little aggressive when it comes to love. Try not to be too pushy with your crush or significant other. You'll catch more flies with honey, Cappie. On the 18th, the Full Moon in Scorpio illuminates some weird stuff that's been going down in your friendships. This energy can help you address the issue head on to find a compromise or you may decide the connection isn't worth the energy. The month wraps up with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini on the 21st making the next few weeks at work one of the busiest seasons of the year.
Aquarius
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Home and family takes front and center stage during this time of the year. You may be planning a move or a trip to your hometown around the New Moon in Taurus on the 4th. This part of your chart is also associated with motherhood so don't be surprised if your baby fever is through the roof this month. If you're in the space for it, there can be talks about starting or expanding your family as Mercury, planet of communication, moves into Taurus on the 6th. Babies may be the last thing on your mind, and in that case, you may be more interested in expanding your knowledge about real estate or even your family ancestry. Around the 9th, you can experience a mental breakthrough that helps you reunite with your divinity and connection to God.
Venus returns home on the 15th and love matters are nurtured behind the scenes in your home. You and a significant other may decide to move in together to establish the beginning stages of your family. Mars moves into Cancer on the same day. Over the coming weeks, you'll be motivated to nurture you health and well-being by creating more balance in your daily routines. The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 18th brings recognition in career and social status. Avoid gossip and romance on the job as things have the potential to be exposed at this time. The month ends on a high note with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini, boosting your romance and creativity over the weeks to come.
Pisces
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The month begins with a New Moon in Taurus on the 4th, encouraging you to activate your throat chakra. In what new way can you share your thoughts with the world? On the 6th, Mercury moves into Taurus, which is great energy for learning about a new topic of interest or communicating your ideas. Starting up a vlog or podcast is favorable right now. You've got something to say and the world needs to hear it. Positive breakthrough can take place around the 9th when it comes to any power struggles you've experienced in your friendships. Any subconscious programming that has your social life running amuck can be dissolved around this time.
On the 15th, Venus returns home to Taurus and your conversations get a little sweeter during this transit. You are very persuasive given this energy so use it to your advantage. If you're open to meeting someone new, you may actually get lucky with online dating. Even if you're taken or not interested in love, your IG will be getting plenty of attention from potential suitors. Mars moves into your sister sign, Cancer, on the same day heating things up when it comes to dating, fertility, and creativity. This is the perfect time to seal the deal if you and your partner want to start a family. Depending on your priorities, a creative project may be getting all of your focus during this transit. On the 18th, the Full Moon in Scorpio enhances your connection between you and your Higher Self, offering you a life-changing encounter that reminds you of just how powerful you truly are. May wraps up with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini on the 21st, making the next month all about home and family matters.
Taurus
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
Happy birthday to youuuu! It's your season, baby! The New Moon on the 4th is a powerful new beginning for you so make the most of this. You only get one new moon every year, making this a good time to map out what you'd like to accomplish in your next year around the Sun. Mercury moves into your sign on the 6th, blessing you with the gift of gab. Keep in mind that you'll catch more flies with honey. On the 9th, a peak intimate experience can unlock your coochie chakras giving you a completely new outlook on life. On the 15th, your ruling planet returns to her home sign. Use this extra attention you're receiving to attract all of the right elements that you need to experience the most spectacular year yet.
Mars moves into Cancer on the same day, making you even more lazy -- I mean "laid back" -- than usual. This energy can be a little passive-aggressive and sibling rivalries are likely to come to the surface at this time. You can be direct without being an asshole. Embrace healthy conflict-resolution. The Full Moon on the 18th highlights your relationships, particularly marriage or business partnerships. You may decide to leave a situation that isn't working for you or you may finally experience the breakthrough you need to bring a relationship back into harmony. The month wraps up with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini, encouraging you to get out there and connect. You may just be one social networking mixer away from meeting your new investor or business partner.
Gemini
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
May is typically a more lowkey month for you, Gemmie. There's a ton of action going on in Taurus, which brings your focus to your inner-world for the first couple weeks. The New Moon on the 4th enhances your dream world. Pay attention to any messages that you're receiving around this time as they contain key information helping you tap into past-life gifts and talents. Mercury, your ruling planet, moves into Taurus on the 6th, making you more curious about Venusian themes like art, music, and fashion. This is a good time to watch a documentary about your fav musician or pick up a new hobby that you can enjoy in your solitude. On the 9th, good luck comes your way through a key relationship that provides you with a lighter approach to releasing a heavy emotional burden.
On the 15th, Venus moves into Taurus and love matters take on a more private approach with you preferring to spend time at home and in the bedroom. Mars moves into Cancer on the same day, encouraging you to see the value in your talents by actually doing something with them. The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 18th illuminates your daily routines, health, and work. You may receive some news around this time that motivates you to make some changes in one of these areas of your life. Work-life imbalances will likely come to a head, encouraging you to make some changes in the way you manage your time. The month closes out with the Sun and Mercury moving into your sign, giving you a much-needed boost of energy that you'll need for your birthday season.
Cancer
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The month begins with a New Moon in Taurus on the 4th, bringing your focus to your social network and big hopes and dreams. This is a favorable time to collaborate with the right people that can help turn your vision into reality. On the 6th, Mercury moves into materially-driven Taurus, making this the perfect energy for strategizing about how you and your tribe will make your mark on the world. When it comes to these money moves, Jupiter and Pluto favor you around the 9th in regards to a business partnership or work connection that may offer the breakthrough you've been banking on.
Venus moves into Taurus on the 15th, which could surprisingly have you crushing on someone in your circle of friends. If you're open to love, going to a networking event or joining a charitable organization can be a great way to meet someone who shares common interests. Mars moves into your sign on the same day, giving you a much-needed boost of energy and confidence. Your temper may be running short during this transit so find healthy ways to release your anger. The Full Moon in your sister sign, Scorpio, heightens romance and fertility, making the 18th the perfect sultry date night. Healing through creative expression is also favored during this time. The month wraps up with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini on the 21st, inviting you to rest, reflect and close out cycles before your solar return.
Leo
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
Career and social status are highlighted for the first few weeks of May with the New Moon in Taurus on the 4th bringing in an opportunity that could benefit you in the long run. Mercury moves into Taurus on the 6th and there could be an important conversation with higher-ups around this time. If you've been proving yourself as an asset on the job, you may finally be receiving the recognition that you've been waiting for. A stroke of good luck can spice up your love life around the 9th and you may find yourself under the spell of a workplace romance. Venus, planet of love and money, moves into a favorable position for you on the 15th that will help you attract all types of good fortune and opportunities when it comes to your career advancement. You could even be attracting someone in a position of authority.
Mars moves into Cancer on the same day, heating things up behind the scenes. Your bedroom will be getting a lot of attention over the next month, whether you're enjoying the company of your lover or just catching up on some sleep. The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 18th illuminates themes of home and family. This can be a powerful time of releasing ancestral karma particularly related to the mother and maternal figures. This time can also indicate you relocating from one place to another. The month closes out with the Sun and Mercury, moving into sociable Gemini making you the center of attention amongst all of your friends.
Virgo
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
The month starts off with an exciting New Moon in your sister sign, Taurus, taking place on the 4th in a part of your chart that has to do with higher learning and travel. You may consider going to school or simply indulging in your own personal research about a topic of interest. Mercury moves into this same part of your sky around the 6th and you are itching to soak up as much knowledge as you can. An interest in foreign cultures and different spiritual practices is common around this time. If you're traveling, you could meet an interesting companion that opens your mind to a different way of life. On the 9th, Jupiter and Pluto support positive breakthrough in areas related to family and your childhood. Around this time, you'll find it easier to embrace personal self-expression and you may feel like you have a voice after years of being silenced throughout your youth.
On the 15th, Venus moves into Taurus and you're more inclined to connect with people that stimulate you intellectually and even spiritually. If you're looking for a new money opportunity, consider what knowledge you have that others don't. Others may be seeking you out for guidance more than usual during this transit. Mars moves into Cancer the same day, bringing your focus to nurturing your social life and your big aspirations that could use a little more team effort. On the 18th, the Full Moon in Scorpio encourages you to be mindful of your projections and journal it out instead! The month closes out with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini bringing your focus to the career moves you plan on making over the next few weeks.
Libra
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
A lot of the action this month takes place in a part of your sky that has to do with intimacy, healing, and deep transformation. The New Moon in Taurus on the 4th represents the beginning of this metamorphosis that you're undergoing. On the 6th, Mercury moves into Taurus, making you even more open to this period of soul-searching that you're in. An interest in psychology, the occult, and shadow work is likely around this time. You may even consider committing to therapy if you need some support working through a complex issue. On the 9th, an opportunity to express your truth can help you release any long-standing mommy issues. Love and romance gets deep this month with Venus attracting people and experiences to you that either trigger the hell out of you or help you heal some of your lingering emotional wounds.
Mars moves into Cancer on the 15th, making you a force to be reckoned with when it comes to your career aspirations. It's important to show people that you're in control but avoid being overly aggressive. A more gentle approach can be just as impactful for your reputation and advancement. The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 18th can illuminate a money drain, making this a good time to review your bank statement. This energy is also powerful for helping you release stagnant emotions related to an experience that damaged your self-esteem. The month closes off on a lighter note with your sister sign, Gemini, moving into a part of your chart that will bring about travel and learning opportunities.
Scorpio
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The month begins with a New Moon in your opposite sign on the 4th, bringing your focus to relationships. This energy supports any long-term commitment or business partnership that you're beginning. Mercury moves into Taurus on the 6th and the conversations over the next month will revolve around your key partnerships. You may be taking things to the next level with your significant other or even signing a contract with a new employer. A lucky financial break may come your way around the 9th so make sure you're staying on top of your emails and communication around this time.
On the 15th, Venus returns home and love takes center stage for you. When the planet of love is in this part of your sky, you'll appear even more attractive than usual. Expect to receive tons of attention from people interested in you romantically and even professionally. The cosmos is extremely supportive of bringing you together with someone special during this transit. Mars moves into Cancer on the same day and the wanderlust kicks in. Traveling home or to a place that brings you comfort can be just what your heart needs right now. On the 18th, the Full Moon in your sign is a powerful catalyst for releasing residual pain and trauma that inhibits you from being more real with yourself and with others. It's time to take off the mask and reveal who you are underneath your perpetual state of being unbothered. The month winds down with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini as you continue unraveling the complexities of how your experiences have shaped you into the person you are today.
Sagittarius
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
This month brings most of your focus to improving your health with the New Moon on the 4th encouraging you to start a new habit or routine that can benefit your physical well-being. Mercury moves into Taurus on the 6th, motivating you to learn about new approaches to improving your health. Explore different forms of exercise and approaches to your nutrition that can help you live a better lifestyle. On the 9th, a financial stroke of good luck may come your way. If you've dealt with long-standing issues about your self-esteem or money mindset, this energy can provide a positive breakthrough that sets you on a path of deeper self-love and a greater abundance.
On the 15th, Venus moves into her home sign, Taurus, which is helping you attract opportunities and connections that actually benefit the lifestyle changes you're making throughout the month. Making sound choices about the energy you want to engage with can benefit your overall health and well-being. Mars moves into Cancer on the same day, motivating you to work through your mommy issues and intimacy blockages. On the 18th, the Full Moon in Scorpio enhances your psychic abilities and dream world. Pay attention to the messages you receive around this time, which may actually be prophetic. The month closes out with the Sun and Mercury moving into your opposite sign, making the next few weeks all about your key relationships and the important connections you'll be making during the most sociable season of the year.
Capricorn
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
This month brings most of your focus to romance, creativity, and self-expression. It's time to let your hair down and have some fun. As one of the hardest working signs of the zodiac, you have a tendency to neglect your inner child the most. The New Moon in Taurus on the 4th invites you to play with this forgotten aspect of yourself. What new (or old) hobby can you partake in that brings you joy? On the 6th, Mercury moves into the same part of your sky and your mind is overflowing with creative inspiration. During this transit you may create one of your greatest masterpieces to date. Positive breakthrough takes place around the 9th, providing a sense of relief when it comes to a tough habit or lesson you've been trying to come to terms with.
On the 15th, Venus returns home to Taurus making you super sexy and alluring. If you've been experiencing a love drought, get out there! This is one of the most favorable times of year for you to enjoy the adventure of romance. Mars moves into your opposite sign on the same day, which can make you a little aggressive when it comes to love. Try not to be too pushy with your crush or significant other. You'll catch more flies with honey, Cappie. On the 18th, the Full Moon in Scorpio illuminates some weird stuff that's been going down in your friendships. This energy can help you address the issue head on to find a compromise or you may decide the connection isn't worth the energy. The month wraps up with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini on the 21st making the next few weeks at work one of the busiest seasons of the year.
Aquarius
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
Home and family takes front and center stage during this time of the year. You may be planning a move or a trip to your hometown around the New Moon in Taurus on the 4th. This part of your chart is also associated with motherhood so don't be surprised if your baby fever is through the roof this month. If you're in the space for it, there can be talks about starting or expanding your family as Mercury, planet of communication, moves into Taurus on the 6th. Babies may be the last thing on your mind, and in that case, you may be more interested in expanding your knowledge about real estate or even your family ancestry. Around the 9th, you can experience a mental breakthrough that helps you reunite with your divinity and connection to God.
Venus returns home on the 15th and love matters are nurtured behind the scenes in your home. You and a significant other may decide to move in together to establish the beginning stages of your family. Mars moves into Cancer on the same day. Over the coming weeks, you'll be motivated to nurture you health and well-being by creating more balance in your daily routines. The Full Moon in Scorpio on the 18th brings recognition in career and social status. Avoid gossip and romance on the job as things have the potential to be exposed at this time. The month ends on a high note with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini, boosting your romance and creativity over the weeks to come.
Pisces
Laci Jordan for xoNecole
The month begins with a New Moon in Taurus on the 4th, encouraging you to activate your throat chakra. In what new way can you share your thoughts with the world? On the 6th, Mercury moves into Taurus, which is great energy for learning about a new topic of interest or communicating your ideas. Starting up a vlog or podcast is favorable right now. You've got something to say and the world needs to hear it. Positive breakthrough can take place around the 9th when it comes to any power struggles you've experienced in your friendships. Any subconscious programming that has your social life running amuck can be dissolved around this time.
On the 15th, Venus returns home to Taurus and your conversations get a little sweeter during this transit. You are very persuasive given this energy so use it to your advantage. If you're open to meeting someone new, you may actually get lucky with online dating. Even if you're taken or not interested in love, your IG will be getting plenty of attention from potential suitors. Mars moves into your sister sign, Cancer, on the same day heating things up when it comes to dating, fertility, and creativity. This is the perfect time to seal the deal if you and your partner want to start a family. Depending on your priorities, a creative project may be getting all of your focus during this transit. On the 18th, the Full Moon in Scorpio enhances your connection between you and your Higher Self, offering you a life-changing encounter that reminds you of just how powerful you truly are. May wraps up with the Sun and Mercury moving into Gemini on the 21st, making the next month all about home and family matters.
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Originally published on May 1, 2019.
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Devale Ellis On Being A Provider, Marriage Growth & Redefining Fatherhood
In this candid episode of the xoMAN podcast, host Kiara Walker talked with Devale Ellis, actor, social media personality, and star of Zatima, about modern masculinity, learning to be a better husband, emotional presence in marriage, fatherhood for Black men, and leading by example.
“I Wasn’t Present Emotionally”: Devale Ellis on Marriage Growth
Devale Ellis On Learning He Was a ‘Bad Husband’
Ellis grew up believing that a man should prioritize providing for his family. “I know this may come off as misogynistic, but I feel like it’s my responsibility as a man to pay for everything,” he said, emphasizing the wise guidance passed down by his father. However, five years into his marriage to long-time partner Khadeen Ellis, he realized provision wasn’t just financial.
“I was a bad husband because I wasn’t present emotionally… I wasn’t concerned about what she needed outside of the resources.”
Once he shifted his mindset, his marriage improved. “In me trying to be of service to her, I learned that me being of service created a woman who is now willing to be of service to me.”
On Redefining Masculinity and Fatherhood
For Ellis, “being a man is about being consistent.” As a father of four, he sees parenthood as a chance to reshape the future.
“Children give you another chance at life. I have four different opportunities right now to do my life all over again.”
He also works to uplift young Black men, reinforcing their worth in a world that often undermines them. His values extend to his career—Ellis refuses to play roles that involve domestic violence or sexual assault.
On Marriage, Family Planning, and Writing His Story
After his wife’s postpartum preeclampsia, Ellis chose a vasectomy over her taking hormonal birth control, further proving his commitment to their partnership. He and Khadeen share their journey in We Over Me, and his next book, Raising Kings: How Fatherhood Saved Me From Myself, is on the way.
Through honesty and growth, Devale Ellis challenges traditional ideas of masculinity, making his story one that resonates deeply with millennial women.
For the xoMAN podcast, host Kiara Walker peels back the layers of masculinity with candid conversations that challenge stereotypes and celebrate vulnerability. Real men. Real stories. Real talk.
Want more real talk from xoMAN? Catch the full audio episodes every Tuesday on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and don’t miss the full video drops every Wednesday on YouTube. Hit follow, subscribe, and stay tapped in.
Featured image by YouTube/xoNecole
My personal relationship with birth control pills is a bit of an odd one. Back when I first became sexually active (I started having sex with my first boyfriend a couple of months shy of 19), I took them for a couple of months, didn’t like how they made me feel, and so I quit using them altogether (and got pregnant almost immediately after). The rest of my adult life, I stayed off of the pill and pretty much only used condoms (and even then, not consistently — SMDH).
And yet here I am, now, all these years later, back on them again: surprise, surprise.
These days, it's for a completely different purpose, though. Now that I am in the hopefully latter stages of perimenopause (I’m not sure because my mother had a full hysterectomy at 29, her mother died at 53 and I don’t deal with my paternal grandmother because…chile… ) — although I have always had relatively easy cycles and I could definitely set my watch to them, about two years ago, my periods started to show up whenever they felt like it and it was damn near a crime scene once they did.
It was driving me crazy, and so, my nurse practitioner recommended that I take progestin-only pills to shorten, if not completely stop, my cycle: “After a year or so, we can wean off and see if you are entering into menopause on your own.” (Whew, perimenopause, chile.)
Although the first five months of being on this particular pill made me wonder if it was worth it to take this approach, I actually re-upped for another 12-month cycle because the extra progestin (a synthetic form of progesterone) has benefitted me in other areas as well because I am sleeping more soundly and my weight is more stabilized (by the way, when these things are “off,” they are signs of low progesterone levels). However, I did ask my nurse practitioner if, once I do decide to wean off of the pill, would there be any issues.
Her response is what inspired me to write this article because, until she said “post-birth control syndrome” to me, I had no idea there was such a thing. Anyway, if you give me a sec, I’ll explain to you what it is and why you should care if hormone-related birth control is currently a part of your life.
Yes, Post-Birth Control Syndrome Is a Very Real Thing
Okay, so it’s important to always remember that the way that birth control works is it “manipulates” your hormones so that you can significantly reduce your chances of conceiving. This means that taking them could result in some side effects including nausea; weight gain; headaches; irregular periods and/or spotting; increased stress; depression; blurry vision; breast tenderness, and/or a lowered libido.
That said, even though birth control pills are basically 99 percent effective (when taken correctly and consistently), if the side effects that you are experiencing are making you close to miserable, you should absolutely share that with your healthcare provider because…what’s the sense in preventing pregnancy when you don’t even feel up to having sex because you don’t feel good or your sex drive is shot? More times than not, your provider can find you another pill brand or option that will help you to feel more like yourself.
With that out of the way, think about it — if going on the pill can produce side effects, why would going off of it…not? And this is where post-birth control syndrome comes in.
For the most part, it’s what can happen to your body once you decide to come off of birth control. Typically, the symptoms will last anywhere between 4-6 months and, although the symptoms seem to present themselves most intensely as it relates to going off of the pill, any hormone-related birth control (like IUDs, injections, patches, the ring or implants) could produce similar outcomes.
Outcomes like what?
- Irregular cycles
- Breakouts
- Excessive gas and/or bloating
- Weight gain
- Anxiety and/or depression
- Fertility issues
- Migraines and/or headaches
- Shifts in your libido
- Sleeplessness/restlessness
- Hair loss
Whoa, right? And if a part of you is wondering, “Okay, if this is indeed the case, why have I not heard of this syndrome before?” It’s because it’s not a term that conventional method uses nearly as much as alternative medicine does. Still, it makes all of the sense in the world that if your body has to adjust to an uptick in hormonal intake, it would also need to adjust to removing those extra doses of hormones from your system as well. COMMON. DAMN. SENSE.
Anyway, if you were thinking about taking a break from birth control and taking all of this in has you feeling a bit…let’s go with the word “trepidatious” about doing so, I totally get it. There are some things that you can do to make experiencing post-birth control syndrome either a non-issue or a far more bearable one, though.
7 Home Remedies That Can Make Coping with Post-Birth Control Syndrome Easier
1. Take a multivitamin.Something that’s fascinating about what going off of birth control can do is it sometimes has the ability to lower your nutrition levels as it relates to certain vitamins and minerals; this is especially the case when it comes to vitamins B, C, E and minerals like magnesium, selenium and zinc. So, if you don’t currently take a multivitamin, now would be the time to start (along with consuming foods that are particularly high in those nutrients as well).
2. Up your vitamin D intake. Speaking of nutrient levels, a vitamin level that commonly drops after going off of birth control isvitamin D. This is hella critical to keep in mind as a Black woman since many of us tend to be naturally deficient in the vitamin as-is and vitamin D is important when it comes to fighting off diseases, regulating weight and keeping your moods stabilized (for starters). So, make sure that your multivitamin has vitamin D in it. Also make sure to consume vitamin D-enriched foods like fatty fish, eggs, mushrooms, yogurt and fortified orange juice.
3. Drink herbal teas. Since going off of birth control will cause your hormones to be all over the place for a season, consider drinking some herbal teas that will help to stabilize them. Black cohosh contains phytoestrogen properties, Chasteberry can help to level out your prolactin levels and green tea can help your hormones out by helping to balance out your insulin (which can sometimes directly affect them).
4. Keep some ibuprofen nearby. The headaches and migraines? Until those subside, you and ibuprofen are probably going to become really good friends; although I will add that ginger tea and inhaling essential oils like chamomile and lavender can help to ease migraine-related symptoms too.
5. Do some meditating. Waiting for your hormones to get back on track can be stressful as all get out. That said, something that can get your cortisol (stress hormone) levels to chill out is to meditate. If meditation is new for you, check out “7 Meditation Hacks (For People Who Can't Seem To Do It).”
6. Get massages. As if you needed an excuse to get a massage, right (check out “12 Different Massage Types. How To Know Which Is Right For You.”)? However, there is some evidence to back the fact that regular massages (somewhere around once a month) can help to lower your stress, boost your dopamine, increase blood flow and drain your lymphatic system so that you will have more energy.
7. Sleep/rest more. There is plenty of scientific research out here which says that sleep deprivation can throw your hormones out of whack — and since your hormones are already trying to stabilize themselves, you definitely need to get 6-8 hours of sleep and not feel the least bit guilty about taking naps sometimes too.
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Post-birth control syndrome may not be the most pleasant thing about getting off of birth control yet it is manageable. So, now that you know all about it, you can feel more confident about taking a birth control break (or getting off altogether) — without the surprises that can come with doing it. Give thanks.
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