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May’s Full Moon Brings Clarity and Change—What It Means for Your Sign

This month's full moon is in the sign of mysterious and seductive Scorpio.

  • May’s full moon is all about the clarity we need to move forward.
  • This year, the Flower Moon is in the sign of mysterious and seductive Scorpio, so we can expect plenty of intrigue.
  • The fixed signs, Scorpio, Taurus, Leo, and Aquarius, will be most impacted by this moon.

Each year, the full flower moon arrives to remind us that we must let go of old baggage in order for new life to bloom. Named for the flowers springing forth this time of year, May’s full moon is all about the clarity we need to move forward, as well as the practical matters that need handling in order to do so.

This year, the flower moon is in the sign of mysterious and seductive Scorpio, so we can expect plenty of intrigue. And as a sign associated with the powers of the underworld, we should all be prepared for the harsh realities Scorpio can reveal, as well.

The full flower moon is set to reach its peak illumination at 12:56 p.m. EDT, on Monday, May 12th. Ahead, we dive deep into what this full moon in Scorpio represents astrologically, how to work with this energy, as well as what all 12 zodiac signs can expect.

What the flower moon brings. 

The upcoming full moon, known as the flower moon, was named for the wildflowers that bloom across the Northern Hemisphere in springtime, astrology and human design expert, Amy Lea, explains. “The name comes from Native American traditions, honouring the natural rhythms of the land and the springtime season that brings renewal and blossoming,” she says.

And in Scorpio, notes astrology expert and author of Astrology SOS, Imani Quinn, this full moon could feel extra intense. We might be releasing or surrendering more than usual, she says, adding, “It could mean truths and secrets being revealed, true feelings coming to light, and deep internal transformations happening.”

Speaking of secrets being revealed, don’t underestimate the power of Scorpio’s oh-so-scrutinizing magnifying glass. Full moons shed light on what’s been hidden to begin with, Lea explains, clarifying our path and revealing what requires attention. Meanwhile, Scorpio’s favorite pastime is sleuthing, potentially dredging up more of our shadow side than we care to face.

According to Lea, this Scorpio full moon links back to the Scorpio new moon just six months ago, so think of this full moon as the halfway point in a larger cycle. She suggests asking yourself what intentions, desires, or transformations were beginning to stir back then, as well as reflecting on how far you’ve come, what you’ve learned about yourself, and where you’re being asked to switch gears.

“Scorpio governs the underworld of our experience of personal power. It speaks to hidden layers, unspoken truths, and things we feel but rarely say aloud,” she adds. That said, according to her, this full moon may stir emotions or insights around everything from personal power and energetic sovereignty, to boundaries, intimacy, trust, and transformation.

Person standing outdoors at sunset, backlit by the sun

Scorpio, Taurus, Leo, and Aquarius will feel the heat.

The signs that tend to be the most affected by certain lunations are the signs that have the same modality as the sign the moon is in. (Signs of the same modality form clashing angles on the zodiac wheel, in case you’re wondering why.) As such, Lea explains, the fixed signs will be most impacted by this moon, which are Scorpio (fixed water), Taurus (fixed earth), Leo (fixed fire), and Aquarius (fixed air).

Leo adds that the two other water signs—Cancer and Pisces—will also likely feel this one more intensely, given they share their emotionally sensitive water element with Scorpio. If you have any of these signs as your sun, moon, and/or rising, consider yourself warned.

Now, let’s get into what your zodiac sign can expect under this flower moon. Be sure to check your sun and rising sign.

What the Flower Moon will bring for each zodiac sign. 

Aries

With the flower moon in your eighth house of transformation, intimacy, and vulnerability, you might be feeling more exposed than usual. And according to Quinn, this full moon invites you to get real with yourself, unlock your truest desires, and allow yourself to have a true rebirth. She suggests asking yourself, What needs to die within you in order for your desires to live?

Taurus

Your closest relationships could be under scrutiny right now, as this potent flower moon in Scorpio revs up your seventh house of partnerships and long-term commitment. According to Quinn, in fact, your relationships are coming in with extra revelations. “This full moon, look out for unexpected news from loved ones or even news you may share yourself,” she says, adding, “Changes of heart may be on the horizon.”

Gemini

You’re known for being a social sign, but right now, this Scorpio spotlight is encouraging you to slow down and tend to yourself. As the flower moon makes its way through your sixth house of self-care and habits, Quinn says, it's time to look at where you have let yourself go. It will feel impossible to ignore now, so make sure you’re being honest with yourself about your needs, and that way you can show up as your best self, she adds.

Cancer

Feeling passionate, Cancer? If not, what’s stopping you? That is the question under this flower moon, as your fifth house of creativity and self expression gets a healthy dose of self-assessment. With Scorpio at the helm, Quinn explains, this is a moment to assess where you’re not being truthful with yourself when it comes to your passions, as well as what you want and love. “Express it so that it can manifest for you,” she adds.

Leo

If you’ve been itching to make a change in your living situation, this moon is your chance to do it. The flower moon in Scorpio is making waves in your fourth house of family and home, according to Quinn, and as such, you’re looking at how your home life aligns with your fullest potential. This could look like anything from a change in decor, to a change in roommates, to a change in your address all together. Your move! 

Individuals practicing yoga stretching in a studio

Virgo

Your words could hold extra weight right now, so get clear on what it is you actually want to say. As the powerful Scorpio full moon transits your third house of communication, Quinn notes, you’re being encouraged to speak your truth. “If not now, then when?” she asks, adding that this is the time for you to say what’s on your heart and mind. “If you are looking for change in your life, it starts with you.”

Libra

This flower moon in watchdog Scorpio could have you assessing your finances. It’s moving through your second house of possessions, money, and material security, which Quinn notes is the perfect push you need to get your money right. Whether you double-down on your budget or let go of an investment, “Take a close look at your spending habits, make sure they’re lining up with your goals, and adjust accordingly,” she says.

Scorpio

With the flower moon in your sign, the spotlight is on you—and your first house of self image and identity. As such, according to Quinn, this is your time to shine. “Be your most authentic self and everything else will fall into place as it should,” she says, adding, “You’ve never been afraid of a rebirth, so be open to the unexpected changes it could bring your way.”

Sagittarius

You could feel especially introspective—even somber—under these Scorpio skies. The flower moon transits your 12th house, which deals with the subconscious, as well as spirituality, illusion, and closure. According to Quinn, you might be surprised by yourself, as well as what your dreams and subconscious beliefs have been telling you. “Pay close attention to the internal shifts that want to happen,” she adds.

Capricorn

Things could be changing in your social circle, as this full flower moon in Scorpio makes its way into your 11th house of networking and larger community. For one thing, Quinn says, you may be finding out who your true friends are this season, as quiet intentions start to shift (whether their yours or others). Your main prerogative? Simply to let yourself grow and evolve, and you’ll find your tribe, she notes.

Aquarius

If things at work have needed a bit of a shakeup, now’s the time to do it. The flower moon is shining a spotlight on your 10th house of career and public image, so consider this your invitation to stop playing small. “Be honest with yourself about what you want in work,” Quinn suggests, adding, “It may be time to ask to take lead on that project you want or that raise you deserve.”

Pisces

Where are you holding yourself back from dreaming bigger? As the flower moon peaks in your ninth house of travel, growth, and higher education, anything inhibiting your own expansion will feel front-and-center right now. Whatever it may be, Quinn says, traveling or picking up a new course can help you rediscover yourself. “ It may be time to allow the unexpected to take you to new heights,” she adds.

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