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Springtime is a season of awakening, a time when the earth breathes new life into everything it touches. Flowers bloom, fresh energy stirs in the air, and the world around us seems to glimmer with possibility. Still, spring isn’t just about what we see; it’s also a reminder of what lies beneath the surface, waiting to emerge. This duality is perfectly embodied by the astrological axis of Taurus and Scorpio, a symbol of as above, so below.
While Taurus grounds us in the physical, heightening the pleasures of our five senses, Scorpio invites us to explore the mysteries that lie beneath the surface, to dive into the emotional depths and uncover what has been buried.
As the moon waxes and wanes, we experience shifts that reflect our inner world. With each phase, Mother Moon guides us, phase by phase, into new stages of emotional and spiritual awakening. May’s full moon in Scorpio, for instance, is a powerful moment in this larger, cyclical dance, highlighting the areas where we must confront our shadows, embrace change, and honor the wisdom of what we’ve outgrown.
On May 12, at exactly 12:56 p.m. ET, the moon will reach its peak at 22 degrees of Scorpio. This mystical lunation is an invitation to dive deep into the emotional currents that flow just beneath our conscious awareness. You could feel a sense of stirring from within, as if something you’ve been avoiding or repressing is suddenly coming to light.
This full moon doesn’t just shine a spotlight on our feelings; it asks us to look at what’s been hidden, what’s been simmering below the surface, so we can confront it, claim it, and transform it. Scorpio is, after all, a sign of transformation and this lunation is no exception.
It’s a time when what we’ve been working through—perhaps a deep, heavy emotion or an old fear—finally comes to the forefront. It’s a call to release what’s been lingering beneath the surface, so we can allow something new to take root. If it feels like a potential “rebirth” is in the works, that’s because it is.
The essence of Scorpio has everything to do with endings that lead to powerful new beginnings and this lunation is helping us shed what no longer serves us, making way for the next chapter of our lives.
The full moon in Scorpio is an amazing time for shadow work, the process of bringing the unconscious parts of yourself to light. If you've been curious about shadow work but don't know where to begin, our Shadow Work Companion is the perfect, supportive guide. Beautifully designed, simple, and approachable, this journal walks readers through foundational lessons in shadow work + thought-provoking prompts. Get it now here.
Consider what you’ve been emotionally and spiritually navigating through since November 2024, when Scorpio’s celestial rulers, Mars and Pluto, first came into opposition. What was initially hidden is ready to be released, and as we face it, we are reminded of our own strength and the personal transformations we've been quietly working through.
It’s time to reclaim your power, to let go of what no longer serves you, and to honor the deep changes that are unfolding from within. It’s time to close out chapters, let go of old attachments, and make room for the new emotional landscape that’s being carved out for us.
Moreover, as the sun approaches its conjunction with Uranus just days after this full moon, we can expect fast-moving revelations and surprises. Rebellious Uranus always brings the unexpected, and it’s here to shake up our sense of stability, especially in the emotional realm.
What’s coming up for us now is something we’ve been energetically preparing for, even if we didn’t realize it. This is the cosmos’ way of helping us break free from old patterns and step into the unknown with a sense of inspiration and possibility.
Also, with Saturn (the keeper of time) and the North Node (of Fate) in Pisces in the mix, this lunation aligns with the energy of endings, signaling a time to release what we no longer need. So, as we close the door on one chapter, we open ourselves up to new opportunities and emotional experiences.
Quiet but potent, Mother Moon asks us to surrender to what’s been unfolding behind the scenes and trust that the changes happening are for our highest good. Trust that, even in the midst of change, you are exactly where you need to be. Allow yourself to step into the next chapter with a sense of peace.
It’s time to bloom in your own beautiful, unique way.
In the meantime, read on for what the full moon in Scorpio means for you, along with a lunar reflection for your zodiac sign.
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Aries
You’re shedding old skin, emerging anew, Aries. What emotional baggage or limiting beliefs are you ready to release to welcome in your full potential? The full moon in Scorpio illuminates your eighth house, where the mysteries of life and death intertwine. This is a time of intense transformation as the energies surrounding you are shifting, both internally and externally. Whether it’s a financial matter, an intimate relationship, or a deep-rooted fear, something is coming to a close. Full moon reflection: How can you trust the process of surrender and transformation, even when it feels uncomfortable?
Taurus
What relationship dynamics need to transform so they can align with your core values, Taurus? As the full moon lights up your seventh house of partnerships, your one-on-one connections take center stage. This lunation brings clarity to where you’ve been holding on to outdated patterns or where you’ve been avoiding truth in matters of love and intimacy. It’s time to let go of any ties that no longer resonate with your soul’s deepest desires. Full moon reflection: Are you ready to honor your needs and prioritize your truth within your connections, even if it means releasing something familiar?
Gemini
Examine your daily routines and health habits, Gemini. The full moon in Scorpio is a powerful moment for emotional healing and transformation, specifically when it comes to your work-life balance and wellness routines. What old habits or self-sabotaging patterns are you finally ready to release in order to create a more balanced and empowered life? Consider where you've been neglecting your well-being, whether it’s physical, emotional or spiritual. Full moon reflection: How can you nurture your body and soul with more care and intention, and create space for a life that feels more balanced and aligned?
Cancer
Hidden desires and talents are ready to be expressed, Cancer. As the moon reaches its peak of fullness in your sister sign, Scorpio, it will activate your fifth house of creativity, pleasure, and self-expression, signaling a time to look at where you’ve been inhibiting yourself from experiencing joy. Perhaps you’ve been too focused on responsibilities and forgotten the importance of play. Now, the full moon in Scorpio is here to remind you to embrace the transformative power of your passions. Full moon reflection: What inner desires or creative passions have you been suppressing?
Leo
The energies are ripe for releasing old emotional patterns tied to your upbringing or past, Leo. What wounds from the past are you ready to heal so you can create the home and peace you truly deserve? After all, it’s not every day Luna peaks in Scorpio and your fourth house of home, family and ancestral roots. Whether it's an issue with family or a desire to create a more nurturing environment for yourself and loved ones, this lunation invites you to transform your emotional foundation. Full moon reflection: What family wounds or old emotional patterns are you holding onto that no longer serve your peace and stability?
Virgo
What old stories are you ready to rewrite, Virgo? The full moon in Scorpio will shine a light on your third house of communication, learning and immediate environment. This is a potent time to let go of any mental clutter or outdated beliefs that have been holding you back from fully expressing yourself. Whether it’s a relationship with a sibling, a neighbor, or how you communicate in your daily life, it’s time to clear the air and embrace a new, more authentic way of speaking your truth. Full moon reflection: What mental patterns have you been carrying that restrict your ability to communicate openly and authentically?
Libra
What can you release to create a more authentic and empowered sense of self, Libra? With the full moon in Scorpio activating your stability-seeking second house of possessions, finances and self-worth, you’re being asked to assess what truly matters to you. It’s time to release any limiting beliefs surrounding money, security, and your sense of self-worth. The essence of Scorpio supports your transformation, presenting you with the opportunity to shed old attachments to material possessions or relationships that no longer resonate with you at a soul level. Full moon reflection: What beliefs about money, success, or self-worth have you been holding onto that no longer align with your higher self?
Scorpio
Happy full moon, Scorpio! Spotlight’s on you as the moon illuminates your first house of appearances, identity and approach to relationships. On top of this full-circle energy, this is your time to shine as you celebrate a profound moment of transformation after shedding old identities and fully embracing a new and improved version of YOU. The powerful energy of this lunation brings clarity and emotional depth, revealing who you’ve truly become, despite the trials and hardships. Full moon reflection: What old masks, fears, or burdens are you ready to release to make room for your truest essence?
Sagittarius
Allow this moon to guide you to a place of spiritual healing and release, Sagittarius. Something’s been weighing over your head and the full moon in Scorpio is bringing your shadows to the surface. Activating your 12th house of healing, dreams and unconscious patterns, this deeply introspective lunation signals a time where hidden emotions and unresolved fears rise to the surface. It’s a time to let go of what you’ve been carrying in your subconscious, whether it’s guilt, shame, or self-doubt. Full moon reflection: What unseen burdens have you been consciously carrying in your heart?
Capricorn
Your soul tribe is out there, Capricorn. This comes to mind with the moon reaching its peak in Scorpio, activating your 11th house of community, friendship and future visions. Still, it’s time to assess and reflect on where you’ve been investing your energy, along with the social circles you collaborate with. Are there relationships or group dynamics that are no longer aligned with your values and dreams? The essence of Scorpio invites you to step away from what no longer resonates, making space for new, authentic connections and, more importantly, new goals for the future. Full moon reflection: Are you ready to step away from what’s holding you back and make space for authentic connections that reflect the path you’re on?
Aquarius
The power you hold is palpable, Aquarius. With the full moon in Scorpio highlighting your public 10th house of authority, career and reputation, you’re called to release outdated goals and ambitions that no longer serve your higher purpose. If you’ve been holding on to a certain career path or societal expectations, this lunation is urging you to step into your power and embrace a new, more authentic trajectory. Full moon reflection: What parts of your career are you clinging to out of habit or external expectation, but no longer reflect who you are becoming?
Pisces
Expand your consciousness and embrace your higher wisdom, Pisces. The full moon in Scorpio will shine a light on your adventurous ninth house of philosophy, higher learning, and travel, signaling a moment to surrender old beliefs or patterns in your worldview. Whether it’s a way of thinking or a belief system that no longer resonates with your spiritual evolution, this lunation is a call to break free and embrace new ways of thinking and seeing the world. Full moon reflection: How can you let go of limitations and make space for new wisdom and greater adventures?
Valerie is an astrologer, writer & visual storyteller. She writes horoscopes for PEOPLE, PopSugar, StyleCaster, Elite Daily, among others. For more of her work, check out valeriemesa.com or follow her on Instagram @valeriemesa.
