What the May 2022 lunar eclipse means in astrology

May 2022 lunar eclipse astrology - moon phases on a pink sky background

(Image credit: Future)

last updated 19 May 2022

Ready for the May 2022 lunar eclipse? Astrology-minded folks just wrapped their heads around Mercury retrograde 2022, and now they're forced to move on.

This month's full moon in Scorpio—affectionately known as the Flower Moon—will coincide with the second eclipse of the spring season, and things are bound to get a bit heavy.

"Scorpio is one of the most intense signs of the zodiac, and eclipses by nature are known for bringing rapid shifts and realizations, so this certainly has the makings for a pretty intense full moon," says astrologer Nina Kahn (opens in new tab).

But not to worry: we'll fill you in on the nitty-gritty details about the dark side of the moon.

When is the May 2022 lunar eclipse?

When: Sunday, May 15 and Monday, May 16 (4.30am BST, 9pm PT and 12am ET)

What does the May 2022 lunar eclipse mean in astrology?

During this time, we, particularly the fixed signs (Taurus, Scorpio, Leo and Aquarius), can expect to encounter changes. But on a universal level, all members of the zodiac will likely part ways with something, or someone, that's no longer serving them.

"Eclipses are known for helping to align us on the path that we’re meant to be on," Kahn says. "While yes, it’s bringing a massive release, it’s helping us to let go of things that are deep-seated so that we can transform ourselves into something new."

In the midst of this celestial cycle, the sun will be in Taurus, which will give us a heightened sense of awareness around our bodies, and there will be a deep configuration with Saturn and the asteroid Vesta, which will likely force us to make a decision.

All in all, this is code for "take a breather."

"Take time to rest and [think about] awareness you give to others and yourself and how has that been out of balance," says astrologer Narayana Montúfar (opens in new tab), author of Moon Signs: Unlock Your Inner Luminary Power (opens in new tab).

Time to review the best self-care practices and stock up on candles and crystals, great gifts astrology-obsessed friends will love.

Low Angle View Of Lunar Eclipse - stock photo

We cannot lie: this does not necessarily sound like a simple transition, but the pros say it's all in the name of good.

"The general theme of this eclipse is about releasing and letting go of those deep-seated emotions and secrets and letting them go in the name of transformation and rebirth," Kahn says. "Let the universe take the wheel and show you what can be possible in your life."

Then, when all is said and done, be mindful of what you took away from the experience—a very similar one will head our way this fall.

"I think once the dust of eclipse season settles, we’re going to really be able to process and integrate some of the shifts that took place in our lives over this past month," Kahn adds. We should also keep in mind that these eclipses are part of a longer story."

For more on what to expect in the astrological realm, be sure to check out our 2022 moon guides. If you're always questioning "When is the next full moon?" we've got you updated with any and every detail worth noting.

Our astrology experts:

Nina Kahn

Nina Kahn is an author and mystical content creator, covering the cosmos for Bustle, Horoscope.com and CosmicAF. Check out her books, Astrology For Life and The Joy Of Hex.

Narayana Montúfar

Narayana is an astrologer, content strategist, visual artist, and the author of Moon Signs: Unlock Your Inner Luminary Power.

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Danielle is a writer for woman&home and My Imperfect Life, covering all-things news, lifestyle and entertainment.

The heart of her time at Future has been devoted to My Imperfect Life, where she's been attuned to the cosmos, new TV shows and relationship trends.

Before her time at Future, Danielle was the editor of Time Out New York Kids and a news editor at Elite Daily. Her work has also appeared in Domino, Chowhound, amNewYork and Newsday, among other outlets.

When Danielle is not working, you can usually find her reading a book, coffee at hand, or attempting a new recipe. (Recommendations always welcome!)