APRIL 19

GIFTS Persistent, Good Taste, Stylish	NUMBER 5
CHALLENGES Headstrong, Contrary, Lazy	(1+9) + (4) = 14 = (1+4) = 5

Instead of questioning the unexpected, I embrace it with enthusiasm

You

As somebody born under the first day of your sign, you could be termed pure Taurus. You benefit from all of the assets of your sign, but are occasionally bewildered by the rest of the world, especially those who don’t see things the way you do. As an earth sign, you’re practical and benefit from an ability to enjoy life. And, equally, you have a strong sense of beauty. You appreciate it in life, in food, even in the character of others. What’s more, you have a gift for bringing joy to those around you.

This, in turn, benefits your relationships, from family to personal and even more worldly links. Your gift for enjoying the physical side of life extends from your own body to an appreciation of movement and music, possibly even dancing. And then there’s food, and often amazing gardens. If there’s any challenge, it is differences with others.

You’re often puzzled that the values and interests of certain individuals are so at odds with yours. Once that is clear, even challenging relationships with others, and your own comfort with yourself, will grow enormously. We’re all here to grow. And one of your most important journeys as someone born under the first day of Taurus is being able truly to savor the influence of your ruling planet, the harmonious Venus, and bring love, joy, and pleasure into your life.

You and others

Venus, your ruling planet, accents harmony in all relations, from family and loved ones to friends and even colleagues. You’re not casual about any of them. But it is confusing when others seem determined to do things that provoke clashes. Learning to understand each other is a valuable part of your journey.

Health and well-being

Because Venus accents beauty and abundance, you can sometimes overdo these. The trick? Take care of yourself, but do it luxuriously, whether it’s in a gym, on a walk, or dancing. Balance the luscious food you enjoy with activity you love, and you will fit into the beautiful clothing you enjoy as well.

Goals and challenges

For you, once life is organized the way you want, you like to keep it that way. Consequently, sudden events that upset arrangements can be annoying. But not only are these changes vital, they encourage you to rethink what you enjoy and make improvements where they are needed.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Mostly, you enjoy tackling issues as a team. Yet you’re uneasy about trusting certain individuals. This is mostly because you are in unfamiliar territory, so feeling anxious in general. As with all feelings, however, these will pass. Knowing that, get involved, but adopt an uncharacteristically slow pace.

APRIL 20

GIFTS Generous, Luxury-loving, Scent-aware	NUMBER 6
CHALLENGES Uncompromising, Stubborn, Immoderate	(2+0) + (4) = 6

Increasingly, I recognize the unexpected drawing me into rewarding experiences

You

All Taureans are ruled by the planet Venus, and in fact, your birthday honors Venus, which is named after the beautiful goddess that signifies all of life’s joys and pleasures—everything from scent to flowers to eating well. But it also accents what you own and earn, money and any assets.

What’s more, the typical Taurean is interested in collecting, but not just anything. It’s about acquiring knowledge that expands your appreciation and understanding of what you’re collecting. This may not involve objects; it could focus on a garden or a skill. The most important thing is the pleasure they give you. It is the same with close alliances—with those you care about. It’s not so much what you might call the quality of the character of the individual, but the place they hold in your life and what you give back to them.

And this is one of your greatest gifts and skills as a Taurus, and somebody ruled by charming Venus. It is not until you observe the behavior of others that you recognize that, often, people simply don’t know how to share the experience of being together. For you, it’s not only your special gift, it’s one you can share generously with others: that is, family, friends, and your broader circle—something that improves your life and theirs and, ultimately, in some ways, the world.

You and others

While spending time relaxing with family and friends is important, it is just as vital that special individuals bring something new into your life. Part of your nature thrives on discovery, on the magic of broadening your horizons. This is linked to your birthday, so it isn’t just special; these experiences are like vitamins that supercharge your life.

Health and well-being

You wouldn’t necessarily think of health and well-being and sensuality in the same phrase. But for you especially, and your sensual Taurus nature, pleasure in the process is as important as the result. Once you discover how to turn achieving your objectives into a joyous endeavor, the rest is easy.

Goals and challenges

The trick to transforming challenges into a game involves exactly that: finding the fun in them. While, initially, this may not be easy for you, instead of dwelling on getting things done because you must, try focusing on the joy of discovery. Do that, and each task will become exactly that—a joy.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Sudden changes in plans are unsettling, and could be upsetting to others, too. Still, these are in everybody’s best interests. Knowing that, discuss recent developments, not with the objective of keeping everybody happy but to defuse issues before they turn into serious problems.

APRIL 21

GIFTS Well-presented, Sensual, Loving	NUMBER 7
CHALLENGES Selfish, Willful, Inflexible	(2+1) + (4) = 7

Each time I say “No,” I explore what a “Yes” would bring my way

You

As an April 21^st Taurus, there are big questions in your life and they are important for you as an earth sign and somebody who appreciates what you have. These questions are: Am I what I possess? Am I what I have created? While you should take pride in that, the question also is whether to go deeper in your thinking and consider if elements of your life that aren’t involved with what you, as an individual, have created are as important.

We are in a world that focuses a lot on material things, so it’s easy to get lost in conversations about those more practical, financial, or physical achievements. Yet being ruled by Venus, the planet of relationship and beauty, the less tangible, more intuitive side of life is equally important to you. That balance between assessing what you have and what you have achieved, and the nature of your relationship with others, and even with Mother Nature, is important.

In some ways, these support you and feed you in ways that material possessions or even achievements can’t. This is an essential component: to examine what you’re doing with your time and your priorities, and whether you’re getting enough good feelings in the process. If these are lacking, it is not difficult to recognize them. It’s simply a matter of spending time dwelling on them each day.

You and others

Family and old friends are important. But, also, those who remind you of the joys that come with life’s simple pleasures, with nature, even small yet beautiful possessions, all add to each day’s enjoyment. One of the joys of this is that the balance changes as each year moves on, and as you evolve as well.

Health and well-being

You can be a creature of habit. If you have found ways to take care of yourself that work for you, that’s great. You’ll be eating, living, and moving in ways you enjoy, but that also benefit your mind and body. However, from time to time, some of those habits may belong in the past and need to be rethought, if not radically altered.

Goals and challenges

Few individuals are happier than a Taurus who appreciates what he or she has, and has a few projects in mind or actually happening. Yet as you know, it’s easy to settle into a routine and to put off even exciting changes. That’s your challenge, and potentially a source of great excitement.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Although you are likely to be short of facts about recent amazing developments, that shouldn’t keep you from taking action on what you do know. If others say you should organize plans beforehand, thank them politely but ignore them. With things moving swiftly, you’ll need to think and act fast.

APRIL 22

GIFTS Beauty-lover, Practical, Insistent	NUMBER 8
CHALLENGES Excessive, Insensitive, Single-minded	(2+2) + (4) = 8

Just when life seems tough, I realize what an exciting adventure it is

You

You’re often described as a sensual Taurus, but that description suggests you indulge yourself broadly. And while it is true, you enjoy your pleasure, another side of your nature, as an earth sign, prefers life to have a certain order, and you enjoy organizing arrangements and setting goals. What’s more, you’ll ensure the process of achieving those goals will be fun. But you will sometimes put off that gratification until you’ve achieved everything you have in mind, whether in regard to your personal life, your activities out in the world, or a long-term goal—perhaps something at school or at work.

Similarly, this involves studying, even when you are simply lounging around. You might set yourself the target of learning about art or a particular sport. And for you, this process of making plans and achieving goals is a kind of vitamin. However, finding a balance between this and two other components of your life—close alliances, and simply to enjoy life for what it is—is one of your challenges.

Once you manage to achieve this—linking certain goals with the pleasure of others’ company, while learning something new, or simply allowing exciting developments to take over your life for a few days, weeks, or even months—you’ll find a balance that will turn a life of objectives into a life of joy as well.

You and others

With Venus ruling Taurus, you care deeply about the happiness and well-being of others. And if you are asked to do too much or someone else is overwhelmed, you will try to achieve a balance. The trick? Recognize that there are cycles—times to receive and to give. Find that balance and you’ll achieve peace where, previously, there has been tension.

Health and well-being

Finding a balance when it comes to taking care of yourself can be challenging. While a regimen is tempting, being by nature sensual, you must be able to enjoy it. However, seek out and find a form of fitness or a way of eating that is a joy, and you will achieve both health and happiness.

Goals and challenges

Sometimes you become so addicted to certain challenges and how to face them that you forget to stop and embrace those partway goals, small achievements that become your priority each day. Equally, it is vital that you congratulate yourself on what you have done each day. Do that, and your joys will blossom abundantly.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

As much as you enjoy learning about changes, both in the world around you and those reshaping the lives of others, you are less enthusiastic about changes in your own life. Yet judging by planetary activity, they are unavoidable. Explore what has arisen. Learn more, and you’ll be thrilled.

APRIL 23

GIFTS Sensual, Value-aware, Affectionate	NUMBER 9
CHALLENGES Unbending, Lazy, Self-indulgent	(2+3) + (4) = 9

Every day, love appears in many forms, some as unexpected as they are powerful

You

The theme of your Taurus birthday is the appreciation of beauty. It is likely that you are already well aware of the beauty of the world around you, possibly since you were very young, recognizing it in your own toys or the things you saw. It may be that something you viewed in your parents’ home or were given that so fascinated you has become a source of interest, if not study. Alternatively, this may have been the starting point for exploration of another variety.

Whatever the case—and there could be a range of situations—as your life has unfolded, you will have learned a lot, not just about those objects, but about the value of time, your own efforts, perhaps even about money itself.

While this is important to you, especially as someone born under the sign that is said to rule money, it is also vital for you to spot and deal with habits that could limit your thinking or your capacity to learn about, or enjoy, new activities. And this form a link to the planet that rules your sign: Venus, also the ruler of the sign of Libra, which is about balance. Make this your objective, your theme—for today and every day. Do this and not only will you enjoy these discoveries, you will also develop a growing awareness of what there is to enjoy in each day of your life.

You and others

You sometimes get short-tempered with family or friends or, if you work, colleagues, wondering why they waste time on unimportant matters when other activities are so rewarding. However, they aren’t you and probably aren’t Taureans. Your challenge? Recognizing that others live in their own world, and it is completely different from yours. That is the key to true harmony.

Health and well-being

When you are passionately involved in an activity or time with loved ones, the day will go by and you won’t even have taken a walk. You may grab a bite or, alternatively, share a delicious meal with others. Great. But then compensate with the gift of getting out, and getting your own energy going.

Goals and challenges

If there is a single word that could sum up your goals and challenges, it’s balance. Too much never works, and struggling is no fun. Focus on balancing what you’re always seeking and what you already have, today, in the here and now. Achieve this, and life will become far more joyous day by day.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Being told you are about to be disillusioned may not sound like good news. Yet when you think about it, you’re trading in a fantasy, one that is likely to be disappointing, for the facts. If you’re facing any challenge, it is narrowing down your range of options and deciding what you will do next.

APRIL 24

GIFTS Loving, Stylish, Appreciates Quality	NUMBER 1
CHALLENGES Uncooperative, Selfish, Inflexible	(2+4) + (4) = 10 = (1+0) = 1

Beauty and kindness are easy to recognize but, often, generosity isn’t as clear-cut

You

For you, Taurus, the twist and turns you face during your day, week, or throughout your life can be puzzling, simply because you’ve worked so hard to organize things, to create the stability that enables you to enjoy life. But then something happens and a plan you’ve made, your vision, is thrown into disarray, or so it seems. But, actually, it is simply that life is about change. The weather changes, clouds pass in the sky and plants around you grow.

And indeed your own life and relationships with others also change and grow. Still, you’ll often put off, if not battle, changes, because you fear the disarray they’ll bring. It is true: the process of change, and growth, can be unsettling, if not untidy. Yet making plans is one thing; taking action on them is another. What’s more, finding that balance between those plans and allowing space for growth is a crucial challenge—and a skill. Once you understand how it’s done, you will also develop the ability to turn the process of exploration into something you enjoy. As a Taurus and the sensual earth sign, life isn’t just about being practical. Deep down, you feel that living well is an art. Once you recognize it as such—an art you can enjoy in ways small and large—in every day of your life, everything else will be so much more exciting—and more worthwhile.

You and others

Sometimes you make plans with others, then they change them. You’re irritated, then ask why. They will detail sudden changes, which intrigue you. This balance in all close relationships shifts constantly and is always informative. The key? First, ask questions. Second, recognize that twists and turns are normal. Support each other through those, and learn and share together.

Health and well-being

Here, the key to finding pleasure in taking care of yourself is so important. For you, going to a gym where everyone is sweaty may work, but it won’t necessarily be as rewarding as taking a walk in the countryside, or even being around those who are doing something that is as energizing as it is worthwhile.

Goals and challenges

You can be a creature of habit. It is predictable, but also comfortable. And you then realize life is no longer exciting. For you the great skill is catching that rut before you become so accustomed to it that any change seems impossible. Actually, you can make those changes right now.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

If you were told you’re a creature of habit, you would probably disagree. Yet you’re battling necessary changes in elements of your daily routine. What’s more, you’re aware how beneficial these could be. Consider the possibility those habits are more dominant than you care to admit.

APRIL 25

GIFTS Tough, Generous, Musical Sensitivity	NUMBER 2
CHALLENGES Immoderate, Willful, Insensitive	(2+5) + (4) = 11 = (1+1) = 2

My joy comes in new and unexpected ways, making each day an adventure

You

For you as an April 25^th Taurus, life is about the principle of balance, living well, and love. It is about finding that capacity to be true to yourself, to enjoy what life has to offer, yet also to love those around you: family, friends, and romantic partners.

However, at the same time, you must face the fact that this requires you to love yourself first. This may sound like psychobabble, but as somebody ruled by the planet of love, Venus, it is essential. This requires a degree of analysis that may not come naturally to you as a Taurus and an earth sign. You are, of course, very logical. But the kind of detached analysis that is so important for any personal growth may take time. Deep down, you feel that you and those you’re with will simply understand each other. Often, getting to know others is like learning a foreign language: while you can do it on your own, it’s worth getting guidance.

Talking things over gives you a chance to look at what you’re doing, and what your priorities are, from a fresh perspective. This also offers a glimpse of new ways of dealing with existing issues and possibilities for the future. Do this from time to time; be reminded that there is always more to discover and more joys to share with those around you, whether it’s those closest, those you work with, or those you’re about to meet.

You and others

Close alliances are important. However, even these can settle into a routine that’s reassuring and easy, but can become restrictive. It can even mean you miss out on opportunities on your own, with others, or to meet new people. Balancing stability with the unexpected is an important skill. Achieve it and you will soon be exploring exciting new activities.

Health and well-being

True, habits are important. Theoretically, you needn’t change worthwhile habits. Yet both in relationships and in taking care of yourself, breaking habits can introduce a new magic into your life. Tempting as it is to get into a reliable routine, be bold. Make changes just to make them. You’ll soon realize how exciting taking care of yourself can be.

Goals and challenges

Discovery is the key here. When you begin to recognize how much there is out there for you to not only experience but also enjoy, instead of settling into a familiar routine—which as a Taurus, you can do—you’ll make a deal with yourself to discover something new and wonderful every single day of your life.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Every once in a while, life is good—so much so that there’s no need to query ideas or offers. All that is necessary is that you respond to events as they arise. Yet certain well-meaning individuals are warning you that things are just too easy. At other times, that might be true. But not now.

APRIL 26

GIFTS Practical, Sensual, Well-presented	NUMBER 3
CHALLENGES Contrary, Self-indulgent, Excessive	(2+6) + (4) = 12 = (1+2) = 3

What is least expected is increasingly the highlight of my day

You

From your point of view, you are a straightforward person—someone who loves life, beauty, and who tries to use your time wisely. However, destiny seems determined to make this difficult for you. There is a secret to this. It’s about achieving balance in several areas of your life. It’s about what you intend to do and those things that pop up that often distract or annoy you. Then, eventually, you realize that, actually, these unexpected events are an invitation that is taking you into new territory.

While this may involve your daily routine, it is about your social life, from family and relationships to your job and pursuits you’re passionate about. Unsettling as those twists and turns may seem, they’re about breaking habits, which in turn lead to unexpected discoveries. While often, planning ahead is important, this is about organizing your life so you can spot and embrace the unexpected. Go with the flow, and you’ll discover how much fun you can have venturing into the unknown.

Yes, it’s out of character. However, both those relationships and activities—and even certain once burdensome duties—will be more fun every day. In fact, you might even find yourself going off in new and rewarding directions and enjoying them before you even realize it.

You and others

Often, talking to certain individuals is such hard work that you wonder why you bother. However, others don’t think this. They expect less than you do. While obviously finding those individuals with whom you have a special “spark” is vital, enjoying others is an essential skill. Discover that and, bizarrely, you’ll have the key to the joy you’re seeking.

Health and well-being

Every Taurus has experienced the feeling that when they’re doing one thing, they should be doing something else. While you might say it’s because you have a rich imagination, it could also be because you’re avoiding getting out and about when you’re so comfortable. The secret? Take that imagination out for a brisk walk, and ask your body to come along.

Goals and challenges

In general, your goals and challenges are what we have been talking about here. Familiar habits are holding you back. Note those, and each day break a habit—a little one maybe, then a medium-sized one, and once a week a big one. Not only will your life be a lot more fun, the results could be miraculous.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Sometimes even the simplest of plans takes a long time to organize. Yet now and over the coming days, things will move with astonishing swiftness. This is wonderful. Bear in mind, however, that you’d better have all the details beforehand, because you’ll have no opportunity afterward.

APRIL 27

GIFTS Luxury-loving, Persistent, Affectionate	NUMBER 4
CHALLENGES Single-minded, Insensitive, Headstrong	(2+7) + (4) = 13 = (1+3) = 4

Making plans boosts my sense of control, yet the unexpected brings magical moments

You

If there were a single motto for your life, it would be summed up in the hopeful phrase, “One day everything will work out.” As a Taurus, ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty and exactly that—order—it’s understandable that this is your ideal. But the fact is, each day the sun rises and each evening it sets; the world changes—and so do you. So while that idealistic order you’re seeking may be achieved on one particular day, with the world itself changing, life itself must shift, change, and on occasion reform itself as well.

And that’s the big lesson for you—in general, and very much as the future unfolds. Appealing as the thought of getting things organized perfectly may be, you’ll be far better off simply accepting the disarray in which events unfold, and to find the beauty in that.

As someone ruled by Venus, once you can discover beauty in anything, including the way things unfold, then you will also have answered all the questions and dealt with all the obstacles that otherwise would seem to keep popping up. You will see the beauty in growth. And that, as a Taurus, is essential for you. Doing that, you will be able to tackle even the tricky situations and difficult individuals with a delight that previously wouldn’t have been possible. And you will also have the key to planning the future.

You and others

As desirable as creating and maintaining harmony in relationships is, sometimes you learn most, and gain a greater understanding of others, when you’re working out differences, if not truly at odds with others. The trick? Pause, review what you have learned, and if any apologies are due, make them then.

Health and well-being

When you were very young, there was everyday life and everyday eating, and then there were treat times. These occurred during seasonal holidays, when away on a trip, or, of course, as part of a birthday or celebration. The secret is to include those mini-treats as part of your everyday life, enough to lift your spirits and remind you how special life can be.

Goals and challenges

From your earliest days, you were probably asked what you wanted to be when you grew up. Since then, a lot has changed—for you, but also for the world. However, there may still be a part of you that feels you really should be pursuing that childhood dream, however unappealing or inappropriate it is. If so, the best time to say farewell to it is now and, equally, it is time to embrace the future.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Most questions have relatively straightforward answers. However, several aren’t just perplexing, you’re under pressure from certain demanding individuals to come up with fast answers. They’re being unrealistic. Explain diplomatically but firmly that there’s no way you can fulfill their demands.

APRIL 28

GIFTS Animal-lover, Insistent, Generous	NUMBER 5
CHALLENGES Selfish, Contrary, Uncompromising	(2+8) + (4) = 14 = (1+4) = 5

While changes can be puzzling, I welcome a thrilling surprise

You

For you, as an April 28^th Taurus, living well and with joy is a priority. That may sound strange, because you would imagine everyone thinks that way, but they don’t. This also means that if you intend to spend time with those around you, whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, it is your responsibility to organize things. While that’s sometimes annoying, it also means those arrangements will be far more interesting than if you left plans to others.

Yet being a Taurus and ruled by Venus, which also rules Libra, the relationship sign, it’s all about collaboration. Getting others involved in plans is an art. What’s more, those around you may have very different views about what they’d enjoy. In fact, when they come up with something, you may wonder what on earth they’re thinking. Actually, they’re revealing their point of view to you.

Recognizing this is part of your journey. The more you listen to, learn about, and experience what others find joy in, the better you’ll understand them, and ironically, you will gain better understanding of yourself as well. While you could sit back and try to figure things out, your birthday is linked to learning. The more you explore and the more you experiment, the more you’ll discover—and the more joy you’ll have with every passing day.

You and others

As a Taurus and an earth sign, you’re often the person everybody expects to make decisions. However, sometimes you’re too cautious. That is one of your biggest lessons. Make a deal with yourself to take a chance, on your own and with others. You’ll not only learn a lot, but even seemingly challenging relationships will suddenly begin to be fun.

Health and well-being

Life is about breakthroughs. Once, you enjoyed doing certain things and eating foods that were good for you. But you have changed, times have changed, and those habits need to change, too. It’s all about experimentation. Take chances—with eating, with what you do, and with how you live. What you discover will be as unexpected as it is exciting.

Goals and challenges

The biggest challenge for you is to resist settling into a familiar activity. Instead, do something new—if not every day, then at least once a week. Get yourself into this routine, and what you discover, who you meet, and the delights you encounter will feed you in ways beyond anything you’d imagined possible.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Urgent as certain decisions seem, don’t let anybody corner you into committing to something you’re unsure about. The problem isn’t a lack of options, but rather, too many. You need to explore and experiment. Just ensure others know that is the approach you’re taking and you will finalize plans later.

APRIL 29

GIFTS Stylish, Sensual, Appreciates Quality	NUMBER 6
CHALLENGES Willful, Excessive, Inflexible	(2+9) + (4) = 15 = (1+5) = 6

I recognize that disappointments are often thrilling surprises in disguise

You

As a Taurus and an earth sign, you’re a collector. You may actually collect objects, but also you will collect experiences. In the same way, you collect friendships with people. And some of them—those objects, and even those people—stay in your life for a long time, and this familiarity gives you a kind of comfort.

At the same time, every once in a while you need to allow changes to roll in your life. And it would appear that finding a balance between these two, between creating a collection of people and activities that are rewarding and ensuring these changes take place, is a skill that is important for you to develop as you live through the days and months and years of your life.

This is especially significant, because otherwise, you could easily settle into something that is appealing, but when changes arise, as is inevitable in life, that could lead to complications. You’ll either worry that something’s wrong and try to go back to the way things were. Or you’ll realize that, every now and then, life is not about merely dealing with changes, but embracing them—and as a result, thinking and living in a new way. Once you have developed this skill, you will be able to enjoy these changes, enjoy the changes in the lives of those around you, and enjoy the changes in your world all the more.

You and others

Being close to others—from family and friends to certain special individuals—is important. So when they act unpredictably, you worry or may be upset. The key? Discuss this, and everything else, often. They may question this. Fine. Slowly, they, too, will realize how much they’re benefiting from these changes. They might even begin to enjoy them.

Health and well-being

For you, habits are natural. And they’re reassuring. Once something works for you, you will stick with it. However, it may be that 20 years have passed, or your life has changed, yet you’re still doing the same thing, the same way. Make a point of discovering things, and regularly. You will be glad you did.

Goals and challenges

Sometimes a goal seems uncomplicated. Often, it is. Learning a sport such as tennis, or appreciating jazz, perhaps. But as important are shifting goals, some long-standing. Each day, say something new and try something new and agree to something unexpected, and you’ll soon realize how rewarding this is.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

It doesn’t matter whether the issues in question are personal or involve others. They are unsettling, and therefore not easy to discuss. Despite that, the time has come to raise them. It won’t be easy. Still, once you do, you’ll notice how grateful others are that you had the courage to bring these up.

APRIL 30

GIFTS Perfume-aware, Good Host, Practical	NUMBER 7
CHALLENGES Uncooperative, Stubborn, Arrogant	(3+0) + (4) = 7

There is no wrong way to be thankful, yet it is a skill to receive gratitude

You

For you, the art of reviewing is an important one. This may seem strange, because most of the time, we focus on what we do. However, this is actually about pausing to review what you’ve done recently and, equally, thinking about times in the past when it seemed as if things worked better, or life was easier. This may well have been true, but it could also be that, in your imagination, you remember things being easier, simply because you’ve forgotten the parts that were difficult or challenging. This process of review isn’t about idealizing the past, but remembering the challenges and what you learned from them.

Every so often, life throws a twist or turn your way. And if you consider these to be a nuisance and do all you can to stop them, then life could turn into a battle. If, on the other hand, you remember times in the past when those twists and turns became joys, then you’ll recognize that, even though what you’re doing is unsettling, it, too, will become a joy.

It is the same with close alliances with others. Sometimes it may take a bit of imagination to picture where things are going, especially when you’re having difficulty with family members or with somebody close. Yet, at the same time, every once in a while, you’ve had to break through those difficult times and will be learning from them in amazing ways.

You and others

Your instincts say an ideal life—relationships with close friends or partners—is guided by destiny. Some go back a long time, and you’ve grown close slowly, while with others there was instant magic. However, things move on. Understand that, as you recognize changes are like the seasons, and not only will you enjoy them, you’ll discover how enriching they are.

Health and well-being

Yes, feeling well in life has lots to do with how you eat and how you live. But, even more, it is about enjoying every minute. This may sound absurdly idealistic, but sometimes life seems an uphill climb. And the trick is to recognize that often these challenges are gifts in disguise.

Goals and challenges

Sometimes goals are clear-cut. However, often they come in the form of a challenge at the gym, sticking to a diet, or undertaking studies. And those goals aren’t always clear. So if you notice the challenge, then you’ll be aware that, at its conclusion, you’ll have achieved far more than you would have dreamed possible.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Exciting as recent ideas or offers were, they’re taking you into unfamiliar territory. As much as you enjoy new experiences, you prefer to undertake them when it is convenient. Now, however, events have made the decision about timing for you. Simply go with the flow. You’ll be glad you did.

MAY 01

GIFTS Loving, Tough, Musical Sensitivity	NUMBER 6
CHALLENGES Lethargic, Headstrong, Unsympathetic	(0+1) + (5) = 6

Increasingly, I’m surprising myself at my joy when the unexpected shakes things up

You

For you, being a May 1^st Taurus brings a complex range of options, opportunities, and joys. May Day is one of the happiest days of the year—a celebration of spring, flowers, beauty, and joy. It’s a wonderful theme for your birthday. And it’s also about the joys of family and friends and colleagues and loved ones: being able truly to enjoy time with them, and the pleasures that come with that.

However, there is a part of you that’s very much about the first of the month, about action and getting things done. Except some of those joys take time, just as being able to understand somebody doesn’t happen in a hurry. The flowers that are so much a part of the spring take a while to blossom. If you’ve planted something, it may not yet be in flower.

The lesson for you is to recognize that the passion you bring to the moment sometimes needs to be balanced with patience. And occasionally, you need to remind others to do this as well. In fact, it may be that they are making demands on you to move more swiftly, or be more passionate, in ways that are unwise, if not impossible. They want you to care more about what they’re doing in the ways they want. This is a valuable part of the journey, one that enables you to discuss differences and to learn from them, and in doing so, to deepen those relationships.

You and others

One of your greatest challenges is the conflict between your desire for harmony—and understanding of others—and certain issues that aren’t easily resolved. Yet, this is a rewarding lesson. It is the simple acknowledgement that those differences are a great gift. At last, you will enjoy them for who they are, and they will enjoy you as well.

Health and well-being

Often it’s assumed that everybody’s happy to pursue health and well-being by eating in one particular way and heading off to the gym. But there is also simply enjoying what each day brings and the company of others. When you find that single joy, the rest may or may not follow, but it won’t matter nearly as much.

Goals and challenges

Some say that life’s greatest joy is achieving your goals. But others say it is about savoring what the day brings. Certainly making that your priority will mean you will have a smile on your face when you wake up, and when you go to bed at night.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

The time has come to let go of familiar but restrictive arrangements. From time to time you have considered making changes but decided it would be too much bother. Now events are forcing your hand. Tempting as it is to do the minimum, you’d regret it. Muster your courage and plunge in.

MAY 02

GIFTS Beauty-lover, Practical, Persistent	NUMBER 7
CHALLENGES Idle, Self-indulgent, Contrary	(0+2) + (5) = 7

Daily, I worry less, and my understanding of the power of kindness and generosity grows

You

True, you were somebody born under the sensual and sensible earth sign of Taurus. However, to a certain degree, you share the sensibilities of Libra, the other sign associated with the planet Venus, which is always trying to balance things and make everybody happy. While you certainly want others to be happy, you’d never sacrifice plans just for the sake of a good mood. And as an earth sign, you have a strong instinct about what will work and what won’t, and have found often that if you stick with those feelings and talk things through with others, you will not only achieve an accord with them, you will also figure out a way to do whatever needs to be done wisely and well. Better yet, you’ll deepen the relationship with those individuals.

You will also enjoy the process of creating something, which is so central to being an earth sign and being a Taurus. It may be anything: creating an object, a home, or a business. Whatever the case, it can be small or large. For you, it’s an art. And it’s also the art of sharing with others in a way that allows you to exchange ideas and to recognize that often they see things very differently to the way you do.

This recognition brings a certain peace in what may have been tricky relationships in the past and promises more in the future.

You and others

Being ruled by Venus means relationships are important to you. But finding a balance when it seems others are almost trying to create disarray isn’t easy. However, their views about life and relationships differ from yours. The secret? Get them to listen more, then you do the same. Instead of getting lost in those differences, you will build a beautiful bridge between you.

Health and well-being

There are two perspectives on your health and well-being: one is purely about how you eat and take care of yourself. But the other, inner point of view, accents the joys in your life, those that bring a happiness that includes, but is beyond, the physical. The simple idea of inner well-being is key.

Goals and challenges

Setting goals is important, but turning them into challenges can make them difficult. Yet there is another way, and that is joy in exploring these goals. You then focus on bringing that vision to reality. Better yet, this is a variety of magic you can use every day.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Inevitably, certain changes will mean leaving elements of the past behind. While in some situations this is a relief, others bring a pang of regret. If so, pause to reflect on what you’ve done, enjoyed, or accomplished, then say farewell. At the moment, life’s about discovery, not dwelling on the past.

MAY 03

GIFTS Good Taste, Appreciates Value, Realistic	NUMBER 8
CHALLENGES Immoderate, Selfish, Willful	(0+3) + (5) = 8

What seems an insurmountable obstacle today will become tomorrow’s joy

You

As a Taurus, you are often easygoing and, being ruled by Venus, you have a unique charm that’s appealing to everyone. Yet as a May 3^rd Taurus, you can sometimes be on edge, if not impatient with yourself. You want things to work well, and you have ideals—yet you can’t quite figure out how to make these happen. The resulting impatience can lead to making plans which, because they are done in haste, are unpredictable and unreliable.

The trick to dealing with this is to spot that impatience and recognize that it won’t make things happen any more swiftly. However, it does suggest that you could unintentionally do things that, ultimately, you will regret. First, you need to think about the past, and previous situations that seemed to turn out brilliantly, often because you gave them a certain special attention. It’s the same now. And in fact, this isn’t about getting things done quickly, but about what you learn about yourself and this variety of patience.

These are some of your greatest challenges. However, not only will you overcome them, but what you learn will turn into a skill. It is also about allowing your imagination to work, which means giving it time. This is all about trust, but when you do this and trust in this way, you’ll find a new joy, not only in every day of your life, but in being you.

You and others

Every once in a while, you find yourself wondering why others behave as they do. Also, it is puzzling why they argue about matters when it is clear what is right. However, their view of life differs from yours. It’s as if you each see life the same but from a different angle. Recognizing that makes everything else a lot easier.

Health and well-being

Feeling positive isn’t just about eating well and exercising; it’s about being able to relax. Often you put so much pressure on yourself, you are on edge with others. Both cause stress. Instead of analyzing those problems, focus on something beautiful. Do it often. Gradually, you’ll exchange those tensions for a smile.

Goals and challenges

Sometimes goals are very specific and challenges can be defined. But often, you’re impatient, and either obstacles are slowing your progress or there are problems with others. These happen. And sometimes you can’t control them. But you can decide to relax and see what happens. There may well be progress without you having to do a thing.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

For weeks you’ve kept quiet about unsettling issues, thinking others weren’t ready to discuss them. While that is true, you were relieved to avoid them, too. Now that circumstances are forcing these out in the open, waste no time on analysis. The faster you begin discussing them openly, the better.

MAY 04

GIFTS Well-presented, Loving, Good Host	NUMBER 9
CHALLENGES Stubborn, Excessive, Arrogant	(0+4) + (5) = 9

Wise ideas guide the way, but laughter makes persistence easy—and a joy

You

For you, Taurus, as an earth sign ruled by Venus, the planet that has to do with beauty and balance, figuring out a plan is essential. Once you know this, then you can think about each stage—what you will do and also about others’ responsibilities. Then you can relax. While this makes sense, it is likely minor events or unexpected developments could trigger doubts, or even undermine your plan. It has happened before, so you may wonder if there is a flaw in your thinking. Actually, you are approaching things perfectly. These doubts can overshadow the here and now if you let them. Tempting as it is to focus on past experiences, it often means you’re stuck with the familiar when it s better to take chances—although not in a way that triggers those previously mentioned doubts.

Important as making plans may be, ensure that they are flexible. They may have to do with your personal life, close alliances, your work if you have a career, or how you organize long-term plans. In every case, it is about knowing what you want and setting goals, but also including a kind of flexibility that you sometimes regard as being weak. Most of all, learn to view making plans and life itself as a great adventure. The more chances you take, the more fun you will have—and the greater your rewards will be.

You and others

Being ruled by Venus, for you, relationships are precious. Whether it’s family, friends, or loved ones, you want others to know how important they are to you. Yet sometimes, their way of looking at things differs from yours so much, you have no idea what to say. The trick? Recognize how very differently each individual see things. Acknowledging that alone will change everything.

Health and well-being

Looking after your health is one thing. If you do, that’s great. However, stress can be unsettling, and even interfere with your sleep. But you aren’t always sure what’s causing that stress. Amazingly, you don’t need to know. Just employ a trick designed for Taureans, which is to take a deep breath, and, as you do, simply accept life as it is, even if just for that moment.

Goals and challenges

We have things to learn. What is most important is living a happy life. This requires patience. You’d think as a Taurus, you’d be easygoing. But you put lots of pressure on yourself, in terms of how you live, work, or even your style. Actually, the highest achievement is simply living each day with joy.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

There are few things as bitter as being disappointed by somebody you’ve trusted. Before you draw any conclusions, however, ask a few questions. And be forthright. The odds are good that they were dealing with issues of which you were unaware. Once you learn about these, all will be forgiven.

MAY 05

GIFTS Flower-lover, Sensual, Generous	NUMBER 1
CHALLENGES Excessive, Headstrong, Unbending	(0+5) + (5) = 10 = (1+0) = 1

I’m learning to ask whether those who are giving advice are, themselves, happy

You

As a Taurus and an earth sign, you don’t particularly think about life being about cycles, but as a May 5^th Taurus, life isn’t just about cycles. It is about new discoveries and the excitement that comes with them. This can be in terms of people or activities, then the process of learning about those—and the doubts and concerns that arise. Perhaps, in some cases, you are even feeling disillusioned—and then doing it all over again.

This journey is important to understand, because it is actually about life. In life itself, there are seasons. There is spring, when you were born, when everything is bursting with bloom. There’s summer heat; and then there is fall, when the blooms vanish and the leaves fall from the trees. Then there is the stillness of winter and then spring again. In your life,too, it is about this cycle.

When you become comfortable with that, then you will also understand that important as certain relationships are, they will have their ups and downs. As exciting as certain discoveries are, whether it’s personal goals or activities out in the world, each will be about a journey that may occasionally be easy, but often will have twists and turns. You’ll also discover how exciting and rewarding these are. Once you do that, you’ll have learned one of life’s most important lessons.

You and others

Few things upset you as much as when somebody you have trusted disappoints you. The big question is, have you learned that the issue is not their actions, but your own expectations? There may have been a misunderstanding or an unexpected problem. It has happened to you, and will again. The secret is to realize that mistakes are human and there is nothing to forgive.

Health and well-being

While it is good to eat well and move well, stress can be one of the most challenging elements of your life. Learning to undo that stress is one of the major themes for you as a May 5th Taurus. The trick is to disentangle yourself from situations that ordinarily you might get upset about, and learn to be relaxed.

Goals and challenges

Having goals is important, as is spotting challenges. Learning how to dance around those goals is the biggest trick of all. This is the lesson for you: to recognize that it isn’t about getting things resolved on any particular day, but enjoying what each day brings.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Life is full of minor disagreements that often lead to valuable discussions and rewarding new ideas. Now, however, you are taking one particular issue too seriously, mostly because it involves a matter about which you have intense feelings. Admitting this won’t be easy, but it is essential.

MAY 06

GIFTS Values Investments, Persistent, Tough	NUMBER 2
CHALLENGES Willful, Uncooperative, Immoderate	(0+6) + (5) = 11 = (1+1) = 2

I am drawn to elegance, yet am increasingly aware of the beauty of wisdom

You

As a May 6^th Taurus, you will find that every once in a while you face a puzzle, one that’s more or less unique to you. It’s not unusual, because as a practical earth sign—and also what is termed one of the fixed signs of the zodiac, that is, the signs born in the middle of each season—once you understand a situation or figure out a plan, you stick with it. Yet you frequently seem to encounter individuals who have an entirely different approach to certain situations.

If you make suggestions but are ignored, this can be puzzling, if not a very real challenge. The trick is to realize that your understanding of how things work is yours and yours alone. The perspective of others about the same thing can be very different. Acknowledge that, and the resulting exchange of ideas can bring amazing insights.

This is actually about broadening your horizons. Why? Because another point that’s key to your birth date is the importance of being flexible, to rethink plans and alter goals as you go along. While you may make arrangements based on the past—which makes sense because they’ve already worked—if you use that approach now, with things having changed, you could miss a whole new world of discovery, excitement, and experiences just waiting for you to become part of it.

You and others

You have decided to embrace a new, flexible approach to life. Great. What about others? Forget about discussion and just live it, day by day, and see what happens. Your concerns may be about old habits you are changing anyway. You may even welcome ideas you’ve dismissed as unrealistic or unwise. Better yet, you create a new way of being together, one that is all about discovery.

Health and well-being

This tension can undermine your health. You may be doing what you need to do—you may be eating right, you may be out and about—but if you are uptight, this can overshadow the simple health and well-being you’ve created. Finding this balance and ensuring it includes joy is one of your biggest challenges.

Goals and challenges

While some challenges have to do with finding that joy, in general, being able to roll with ups and downs is the most important component for you. In some cases, this will mean going along with what others think. Initially, you might question it, but soon you will discover just how clever they were.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

As much as you enjoy talking over intriguing ideas, ensure that others understand you are doing no more than exploring possibilities. Certain individuals will mistake your enthusiasm for serious interest in getting involved. Explain that clearly and you’ll avoid misunderstandings, if not hurt feelings, later.

MAY 07

GIFTS Luxury-loving, Insistent, Good Host	NUMBER 3
CHALLENGES Self-indulgent, Immoderate, Unbending	(0+7) + (5) = 12 = (1+2) = 3

Seeking the perfect final plan tempts fate, whereas a flexible vision welcomes it

You

The theme for you as a May 7^th Taurus is building your best life. Of course, as a Taurus and somebody ruled by the elegant Venus, this is nothing new. Except in your particular case, it is, because your ideas about what is best are themselves shifting. There is a part of you that’s impatient. Once you get things organized, if they aren’t quite as good as you’d hoped, you’ll need to change something—and then you’ll change something else.

It seems like one thing after the other changes and you are never quite satisfied. Yet the joy actually comes from what is inside you. It is being able to savor the process of making those changes, whether it involves you on your own, whether it has to do with your relationship with Mother Nature, whether it has to do with family or friends or even a business. It may be a range of these. Whatever it is, it is also recognizing the role you are taking on your own or with others in those changes, and that’s the greatest discovery for you.

When you do that, also, you will be in touch with a creative side of your own nature, and it is easy to miss out on in a time that emphasizes chatting about things and doing things so much. Your love affair with Mother Nature is one of the most important aspects of your life. This encourages you to explore it.

You and others

Your theme is teamwork, but not as you have thought of it previously. It’s spotting those who are struggling with something, but an issue that’s very different from what you’re facing. The trick is not to focus on the goal, but to turn each day’s challenges, however minor, into a lesson. Together, you’ll learn to master them, then turn them to your advantage.

Health and well-being

There are all sorts of formulas for waking up with a spring in your step, including exercise, vitamins, and the right diet. However useful these are, there is a secret rarely mentioned—and that is to expect the best, and in turn, ensure that is what you give to others. Simple. And it works miracles.

Goals and challenges

Some people are obsessive list-makers, but everybody makes a list at some point in their lives. Really, you only need one thing on your list. To choose the most exciting, promising approach to any task, then tackle it right away. That alone will ensure you get everything done, with a few adventures along the way.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

After a fast-paced and exciting period, things are slowing down, and you are able to focus on the practical side of things. You will realize that you’re just in time. And if you don’t act swiftly, certain obligations or financial issues could become troublesome. The sooner you tackle these, the better.

MAY 08

GIFTS Scent-aware, Stylish, Resilient	NUMBER 4
CHALLENGES Stubborn, Excessive, Lethargic	(0+8) + (5) = 13 = (1+3) = 4

Sometimes I seek others’ advice, when I could simply ask them for a hand

You

As a May 8^th Taurus, the big question for you revolves around the pleasure you take in what you do, or in what you acquire. True, you have no choice about many elements of your life. However, you have a range of options in terms of timing, the people involved, or the extent of your commitment. This isn’t about money, investment, or status; it’s about the quality of your experience, so even simple arrangements are appealing, if not just plain wonderful.

That different kind of satisfaction has less to do with settings, situations, or objects and more to do with lifting your spirits, being quiet, or feeling inner peace. Of course, even thinking this way is new for many, and then organizing your life so events include experiences like this may seem unlikely, if not impossible. Yet you’re already recalling certain times this happened, so you know it’s possible

Knowing you can do this is one thing. Doing it is another. But when it comes to your everyday life, it may seem that bringing a similar joy would be asking too much, if not impossible. However, it is the feeling behind it all, the beauty in the mood, and the spirit of those involved, even in nature around you, that add to the enchantment. Take that approach, and you’ll begin to relax and simply enjoy dealing with a bright day or a sunlit evening, or even with simply taking a breath.

You and others

You are all about the quality of life. Explaining that to others isn’t easy, mostly because their ideas will differ from yours. What’s more, because you sometimes question your own priorities, discussions with others can be confusing. The solution? If their ideas are unlikely to enrich your thinking, change the subject. Save deep discussions for those who have something to offer.

Health and well-being

Health can be achieved by taking care of yourself, by eating well, by exercising. However, well-being comes with inner peace, and that is about your own journey, as an individual, as a May 8th Taurus. Its also about the kind of discoveries that are so important. Recognize those and you will also find joy.

Goals and challenges

Achieving a goal seems clear-cut. It is about building something, acquiring a certain amount of money, or arranging a successful event. However, enjoying the challenge is something else entirely. That involves balancing those goals with your own nature. Instead of tackling challenges because they’re there, first ask yourself how much you care about them to begin with.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

When it comes to certain rather tricky matters, timing is as crucial as your strategy. What appear to be setbacks are actually preventing you taking action now. Frustrating as this is at the moment, you will be more than compensated by what comes your way very soon.

MAY 09

GIFTS Animal-lover, Generous, Realistic	NUMBER 5
CHALLENGES Unsympathetic, Uncompromising, Idle	(0+9) + (5) = 14 = (1+4) = 5

Love can be shown with affection or gifts, yet it can be felt from far away

You

For you as a May 9^th Taurus, one particularly big question comes to mind again and again. It is actually the core of being ruled by the planet Venus. On the one hand, Venus, the goddess of love, has to do with exactly that—loving those around you, family, offspring, and even loving friends—and sometimes it is about loving what you do. Yet, equally, being a Taurus and therefore conscious of every element of your well-being, living well but wisely is important, too.

One of the questions that often arises is whether this stability is more important, or those loving bonds with others. Which should come first? The fact is, neither. It is about finding yourself, and the center of your being within. This, then, enables you to love life, whatever you’re doing. While life has its ups and downs—and even the most careful, thorough, and calculating Taurus will experience ups and downs of nature—learning how to enjoy who you are and, equally, to enjoy those around you is a vital skill.

Ironically, that isn’t about passionate love as much as it is about the sheer joy of life itself, and being able to take pleasure in that is one of life’s greatest gifts. The skill is learning to enjoy it, whatever the setting and whoever you’re with. The more you develop this skill, the happier life will be.

You and others

Often our standards vary. We tolerate one thing from family or close friends, another from neighbors or colleagues, and yet another from strangers. But being ruled by Venus, which accents what you both value and love, the trick is to view these individuals all as fellow human beings. It may seem strange, but it is easier and will make you happier.

Health and well-being

For you, health is one thing, but enjoying life is quite another. That means being so “together” that you don’t allow even unsettling events to upset you. That may sound idealistic, because all sorts of things happen. But part of your journey is learning to recognize them as passing, which they will.

Goals and challenges

There is no simple way to overcome a challenge, but there is a very simple way to deal with it—to recognize that, instead of fighting it, you can seek a new approach. When you spot it, you make it possible to exchange the concept of goals and challenges for a creative way of leading life itself.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Having dealt with a series of unsettling situations, the last thing you want is more unexpected developments. However disruptive as those coming your way may be, you will soon realize how much you’ll benefit from them, and exchange irritation for enthusiasm about changes you dreaded recently.

MAY 10

GIFTS Appreciates Quality, Determined, Loving	NUMBER 6
CHALLENGES Arrogant, Contrary, Self-indulgent	(1+0) + (5) = 6

Certain individuals bring out the worst in me, but what I learn is worthwhile

You

As a May 10^th Taurus, you live life with an understated passion. Of course, as a Taurus, you’re perfectly capable of free-flowing passion. But, normally, you try to avoid allowing this to dominate your life. You also give considerable thought to what’s in your best interest and, equally, the price you’d pay if you allowed that passion to take over. While that is wise, every once in a while it is important that you “let go.” This is about the feelings of passion you experience when a plan or project comes together; it could involve anything from a garden to a business, or even a long conversation with another. Once you’ve experienced this, you’ll know it’s worth the risk.

Still, finding and maintaining the balance that is so important for you can be difficult, if not actually challenging. The trick is to realize how much you relish and, in fact, benefit from the action, and the heat of it all. But also you will develop the stillness of finding your way back to your own center.

That’s the trick, to have that passion in some element of your life, yet to stay connected to your center. Do this, and you will have accomplished one of the greatest lessons of this life, one that is about being who you are, being a passionate and intense individual, yet one who also retains a powerful link to your fundamental nature as a grounded Taurus.

You and others

Obviously, relationships matter. While many are easygoing, those involving certain individuals take a very special role, and demand a particular kind of attention. In these, you try to figure them out, to anticipate—if not control—their behavior. Yet it’s actually about caring about them, and living in the moment: enjoying it for what it offers, even if it is not what you expected.

Health and well-being

Talking about life’s tensions, you will find that in achieving a balance in those stressful elements of your life, you need to work less at being comfortable, and more on being healthy. Those ups and downs can take a toll or be an excuse for not taking care of yourself.

Goals and challenges

You have set so many different goals, most focusing on achieving those objectives, and in the way you planned. However, your challenge is recognizing that, as the world changes, so must those goals. Letting old ones go clears the way for new, and potentially more rewarding, aims and objectives.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Certain individuals regard change as worrying, if not an enemy, something to analyze at length. You avoid such discussions. Now, however, you must keep these individuals updated on your plans. Explain your intentions concisely, and in a manner that invites neither comment nor discussion.

MAY 11

GIFTS Practical, Flower-lover, Affectionate	NUMBER 7
CHALLENGES Excessive, Inflexible, Selfish	(1+1) + (5) = 7

Practical decisions bring pleasure, while helping others brings a more lasting joy

You

The theme for your birthday is the joy of order. As a Taurus and an earth sign, you appreciate the beauty of life in so many ways. You appreciate the beauty of nature, but also the beauty of kind gestures and beautiful objects. They don’t necessarily need to be valuable, but simply something that brings joy to your heart. At the same time, you also need for your own life to be in order.

Obviously, it is nice if what’s around you is in order, but the pace of events and the role those around you play are also important. Yet, things don’t always work out as you expect. When you’re so busy it is impossible to be organized, you will still try to be orderly. However, at times, that temporary chaos becomes a permanent variety of disarray.

Bizarrely, often that disarray can lead to a fresh viewpoint on elements of your life you hadn’t realized need to change or, alternatively, introduce new activities or objectives that hadn’t previously crossed your mind, possibly because you were so focused on what you were already doing. The key is to balance your pleasure in life’s beauty, but also to recognize that, occasionally, what seem to be unsettling changes are actually breakthroughs—changes that won’t just be useful, but will add to your life in ways that you couldn’t possibly have conceived of when those events first arose.

You and others

Hoping for relaxation, order, and joy with others is wonderful. It’s just that this may means something entirely different to them than to you. Discuss it? Maybe. But that, too, can create confusion. The solution? Recognize their views are, and always will be, different to yours. Find a middle ground, one that holds the promise of joyous times together.

Health and well-being

It is easy to blame stress—from others or from things that aren’t working—for undermining your enthusiasm for life. True, challenges can be overwhelming. The solution isn’t battling them but simply stopping for a moment, taking a deep breath, and being still. It is by far the best strategy.

Goals and challenges

Whatever your lifestyle—at home, working, or juggling lots of duties—everybody needs a goal. Challenges are important, too, although undoubtedly there are times when you wish they’d vanish. Approach these as offering you the potential to celebrate achievements, major and minor, and you will be amazed how much you learn from each.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Tensions with loved ones or close friends aren’t easy. They’ve been behaving oddly but made no explanation, so you assume they’d rather keep things to themselves. Perhaps. Yet it is just as likely they don’t realize how much certain concerns have altered their behavior. A frank discussion will do wonders.

MAY 12

GIFTS Well-presented, Persistent, Gardener	NUMBER 8
CHALLENGES Unbending, Opinionated, Immoderate	(1+2) + (5) = 8

Justifying your decisions to those who are critical achieves little

You

Many think of profit in financial terms. But often it is said you’ve profited from dealing with, and overcoming, a serious challenge—one you have dealt with by employing thought, analysis of others’ perspectives, and, most of all, patience. Profit doesn’t always have to refer to finances; you will have learned how time, effort, and a willingness to wait, watch, and learn from others can also be profitable. What’s more, this reminds you that the time, effort, energy, and even heart you put into whatever you’re doing creates the end result.

This, in turn, highlights the importance of the word “joy,” which is often used in ceremonies such as weddings, and the wonder of holidays. Here it has to do with a leap in your heart, a real and personal joy that comes from having done something you know will benefit you, others, and, possibly, even the world. With this as a theme for your birthday, it is also important you find a balance between doing what you need to do and being able to savor life’s joys. True, often it is believed the world isn’t designed in this way.

Dealing with finances involves dull duty and challenges. However, in your particular case, the capacity to get things going and to bring money and joy into your life—and at the same time—is both a skill and an art, and one that you are always learning about and refining.

You and others

Making the best of life is one thing, discussing it with others is quite another. When at your best, you have a talent for creating magic. What’s more, it is important to share this gift with those who you were destined to be with—family or loved ones or friends. While there isn’t a single right way to do it, every effort adds its own magic.

Health and well-being

We all have moments when things just don’t feel right. That can mean you need to rest or you have a touch of something. But just as often it is because you’re worrying and don’t realize it. The key? Pausing long enough to find the joy in your life. That, in turn, will give you a clearer sense of what is needed to restore your health and well-being.

Goals and challenges

Often people are encouraged to set very specific goals, then make a list so they can achieve them. While at times this is useful, it can also be restrictive. And for you as an individual, not only is that restrictive, it interferes with using your intuition not only to achieve those goals, but to remind you how to celebrate them.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Don’t be shy about saying what you want, from others or even from life itself. This may seem bold, if not downright selfish. However, this forces you to go from distant and perhaps vague dreams to define exactly what you have in mind. It’s a vital first step to achieving those dreams.

MAY 13

GIFTS Generous, Scent-aware, Insistent	NUMBER 9
CHALLENGES Idle, Insensitive, Stubborn	(1+3) + (5) = 9

Some insist that being kind is weak. Still, do it anyway

You

For you, Taurus, as an earth sign, imposing order on life is important. Even if there is disarray, you like to know where you are standing, what needs to be done to impose order, what comes first, and perhaps, even what you can put off until next week or next month. Yet at the same time, there are twists and turns that can upset your plans. The trick is to recognize how much you can achieve, or not, on any one day. Then, take a deep breath, knowing that the rest simply has to wait.

Yet there is a part of you that truly enjoys this challenge. Without it, life can be dull, if not predictable. You may complain about those challenges, but the creativity they bring out is important. What’s more, they expose you to new ideas and new people, which bring very real rewards.

So the challenge is learning to recognize how much you benefit from the resulting twists and turns and, in doing so, possibly complaining less, too. The problem with complaining? It prevents you from viewing difficulties as challenges that you can actually conquer, and in the process, learn from. Better yet, when you have conquered them, you can celebrate not only your conquest but also what you’ve learned. Abandoning complaints may seem strange. Still, once you do, it will be like clouds vanishing, leaving you with sunny sky.

You and others

We all face practical challenges. But you may encounter somebody who enjoys creating obstacles—possibly a family member, friend, or colleague. As a determined Taurus, your instinct is to stand up to them. Yet, this only complicates matters. Back off. Let them be who they are. This may seem weak, yet you’ll soon discover the peace it brings to your life.

Health and well-being

While there are all sorts of diets and regimens to follow, true inner well-being is another matter. It is about allowing certain individuals, or even circumstances, to be the nuisances they are meant to be. You enjoy battling to make improvements, even if it means facing one battle after another. By simply letting them unfold, you will give yourself peace.

Goals and challenges

You wouldn’t think achieving goals begins with stillness. But this variety of reflection prepares you to fight for what you intend to achieve. True, this may not come naturally to you. But once you realize achieving that stillness is the challenge you’re meeting, then you’ll not only enjoy it—you’ll be proud of yourself for doing it.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Usually you’d check out the facts before getting involved in life-changing arrangements, personal or professional. Yet things are moving so swiftly, it’s a matter of now or never. Waste no time debating the pros and cons. It will only confuse you. At moments like this, your instincts are far more reliable.

MAY 14

GIFTS Good Host, Fashion-lover, Tough	NUMBER 1
CHALLENGES Extreme, Selfish, Uncompromising	(1+4) + (5) = 10 = (1+0) = 1

Ignore others’ maneuvers—and have a grand time anyway

You

For you, the process of planning—of imposing order on life, or turning ideas into reality—isn’t just about getting things done. It is a pleasure, and even more, it is one of your real gifts as a Taurus. While you are a practical earth sign, born with the relationship planet Venus as your ruler, you have a talent for managing such matters naturally. Yet there is also a challenge. Once you’ve organized a plan and made things happen, it feels like a letdown, because you no longer have a project.

The question is, what will you do next? Organize another plan, plant a garden? The fact is, you can do any of that. Your journey is about being able to exercise your creative muscles in every way, and even more, to experience the joy of that creativity every day, in how you live, how you think, and your plans and projects.

As an earth sign, you tend to focus more on the physical world around you. One of your greatest challenges is to go within while still enjoying what nature offers you. Find the balance between the two, and every day will be a joy. You will enjoy the plants around you and the heavens in the sky. What’s more, you will enjoy the love of those you care about all the more. While you can’t weigh or measure these, they’re still deeply touching. Achieving that balance can be one of your greatest gifts.

You and others

You take an understandable pride in the fact that those around you—family, colleagues, even neighbors and friends—rely on you. They come to you for support, they ask questions. As a clever earth sign, you’ve got solutions. Yet, while you’re delighted to lend them a hand, it doesn’t boost your spirits. Learn to embrace others’ joy and discover your own.

Health and well-being

There is all sorts of advice out there about taking care of yourself. However, the best starting point is whatever excites you and gives you a sense of promise. It may simply mean exercising in the way you want, by walking or going someplace lovely, or it may be having a beautiful meal or a massage. Whatever it is, it’s something that is just for you.

Goals and challenges

Life, your background, school, and, if you work, your job, will all have given you clear information on how to achieve. None of it is about enjoying yourself. But increasingly, it is time both to deal with life’s practicalities and be excited by what each day brings. The starting point? Be generous with yourself.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Ordinarily you’d be uncomfortable handing a task that’s your responsibility over to somebody else. Except, at the moment, that individual is both eager to deal with the matter in question, and perhaps, better equipped than you are. Knowing that, waste no time on debate. Simply leave it to them.

MAY 15

GIFTS Values Investments, Practical, Insistent	NUMBER 2
CHALLENGES Rigid, Excessive, Contrary	(1+5) + (5) = 11 = (1+1) = 2

Those who insist I show my love in a certain way don’t know how to receive it

You

For you, the path to joy can be a confusing one. That may seem a strange statement, because you have a talent for making life seem easy. Even when you are facing challenges alone, somehow you manage to help guide others past the obstacles they’re facing. Often people tell you how much they envy you. It’s true: you’re accomplished at this.

Actually, it isn’t until you notice how much others struggle with certain practicalities that you realize what a knack you have for dealing with even very tricky situations. Of course, some would say that being charitable with others is important. However, you do so much. In this particular case, it is about you and you alone—and recognizing what brings you joy. That may be the challenge—because you’ve focused so much on others, you are not really sure what you, personally, want to do or what will bring that special kind of joy.

The solution? Waste no time on discussion and experiment. Where to begin? Think small. Maybe it is about studying something that interests you. Maybe it’s about taking a walk, thinking about how or what you eat, or even taking time alone or with a certain individual. Whatever the case, this part of your journey is one of discovery, and what you have learned about yourself during the process will benefit you now, and for the rest of your life.

You and others

Often, when you speak, it is about a hope. You say, “If only I could …” followed by ideas about helping a particular person, or rethinking certain past arrangements. Some are possible; most are not. Your path has reached a fork. You can continue focusing on impossible situations, or forget them and employ your mind, energy, and effort in the future those where you can make a difference.

Health and well-being

There is a tendency to feel that if you take care of yourself adequately, then you should be fine and happy. But in your particular case, life is about discovering ways of thinking and activities that lift your spirits. Focus on these, and on making them a part of your life every day for a week, or a month, and note how much things change.

Goals and challenges

It is easy to turn big challenges into big ongoing projects. But with these, a sense of achievement is in the distant future. Try adding everyday tasks, some easy, others challenging. They’re like taking daily vitamins. They enrich your well-being, day by day. Do both. That is the skill and the challenge.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Having struggled to get the attention of one particular individual about certain concerns and complaints, you are exasperated. You’re both annoyed and concerned about the situation in question. Soon you will have a chance to confront them. But you must act on it—and fast.

MAY 16

GIFTS Luxury-loving, Sensual, Stylish	NUMBER 3
CHALLENGES Lethargic, Self-indulgent, Willful	(1+6) + (5) = 12 = (1+2) = 3

There is no greater gesture of love than that which is as sudden as it is unexpected

You

As a Taurus and an earth sign, you have a knack for managing the physical world—from finances to acquiring beautiful and often valuable possessions. You also benefit from a powerful and analytical mind. Yet it isn’t only about what you think; the direction your mind takes you is also of considerable significance, because while you are smart and good at thinking things through, you can sometimes get lost in those thoughts.

There is a fine line between being creative—that is, using your excellent mind to come up with ideas—and doing what might be called daydreaming, and allowing your mind to wander off in all sorts of directions. And, on occasion, you come back 15 minutes or even an hour later, feeling relaxed but wondering where you have been.

While this is okay, in your particular case, learning to master that capacity to create visions, not just to relax but for your benefit, is a powerful and important part of your journey. And one that, as your awareness of it grows, will become exciting. It will open the door to ideas that may have been on the fringe of your thoughts, but will take center stage. Next, you’ll think about making them reality, and even part of your way of living, working, or loving. Do that, and you will discover joys that once seemed far beyond your reach.

You and others

You have an imaginative and rich side to your nature. Yet, it is difficult to describe, so you have shared it with few people. Mostly, with others, you focus on more “Taurus” topics—the world, what you enjoy, your achievements. However, certain individuals share that imaginative vision. Talk to them about it. Those discussions won’t just be enriching; you could create some projects together.

Health and well-being

While often health and well-being is thought of as fitness—what you eat and what you do—sometimes it is more about your capacity to realize a vision. And that’s very much the case for you. Ironically, sometimes if you get involved physically walking while envisioning your desires, you’ll be able to combine that vision with taking care of yourself.

Goals and challenges

Figuring out what’s next from a practical point of view is often wise. But as you are increasingly aware, sometimes you need to allow your imagination to shape your thinking. Do that, and you’ll be shaping the direction you’ll be taking now, over the coming days, weeks, months, and possibly even years.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Usually, you stick with who or what you believe in, through thick and thin. Yet even you could discover that you’re unable to ride out the coming weeks’ tricky events without making changes. No matter how much of a compromise this seems at the time, those changes are in your best interest.

MAY 17

GIFTS Pet-lover, Determined, Realistic	NUMBER 4
CHALLENGES Immoderate, Unbending, Extreme	(1+7) + (5) = 13 = (1+3) = 4

The love that comes from a flower or a newborn can help you express your feelings

You

For you as a Taurus, the idea of turning concepts into action may be an appealing one, but being a thorough Taurus, naturally you’ll check out the facts. However, these days, with things moving so swiftly, or being so different from elements of the past, there really are no facts to check out. You can talk to other people about what they have done. But, mostly, you need to trust another element of your nature: your intuition. While you’re well aware of it, you’re sometimes reluctant to even mention it, just because you are unsure of the reaction you’ll get. Yet, increasingly, you are learning to rely on it, even with practical matters. What’s more, this is very much what your journey as an individual is about.

It is about combining that amazing ability to enjoy life’s pleasures and to manage its demands. When necessary, you employ your intuition, which can often bring a fresh view to arrangements. Yet at the same time, in certain situations, you to want to plan ahead. And this is where it gets tricky, because when you are using your intuition, often half of what you’re envisioning is based on the past, while the rest has to do with a future that hasn’t yet taken place. This is where the process of developing your trust and true vision comes in. As you master this, you’ll embrace a rewarding skill, and deepen your wisdom about life itself.

You and others

Your gift for understanding others is wonderful, although you don’t always realize how much your knack for knowing what those around you are working on, dealing with, or passionate about means to them. Better yet, you know what to say, and when. The irony is, your kindness or patience don’t always extend to yourself. That is your next project.

Health and well-being

Sometimes the emphasis on health is on physical well-being alone. In your case, the emphasis is also on your mental and even emotional well-being. As much as you care about others, sometimes that concern becomes worry, which can undermine your mood. Learning to spot that, and where appropriate, shift your focus, is a vital skill.

Goals and challenges

Some would say putting life in order and outlining what needs to be done are vital. And often they are, but in your particular case, because you have such a strong practical streak, your instincts will tell you when to get in touch with somebody, when to rethink a plan, or when to undertake something new. Trust those feelings; they’re a powerful gift.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

It seems you need only say yes and a series of brilliant events will unfold. Yet appealing as this is, it is sudden enough that you have no time to consider. Judging by the pace of events, however, you won’t have the luxury of such reflection. In fact, it’s now or never.

MAY 18

GIFTS Affectionate, Generous, Well-presented	NUMBER 5
CHALLENGES Selfish, Lazy, Inflexible	(1+8) + (5) = 14 = (1+4) = 5

If you debate the rights and wrongs of joy, it becomes an impossibility

You

For you as a Taurus and an earth sign—and somebody who likes to get things organized—life should be fairly straightforward, except you have a tinge of the sign next to you. It’s Gemini, which has to do with having a different kind of vision; having a lively mind; noticing what’s going on in the world around you; noting what people are talking about, and new ideas.

Sometimes you don’t even realize you’ve done that. Yet at the same time, it is all about a kind of discovery that is important simply because occasionally those insights, completely unconsciously, add to your life and come up as ideas later, and you don’t even know where they came from. Being able to take advantage of them is the important thing. And the trick is to refuse to get caught up having to explain or justify them, or to come up with facts to support them. Simply dive in. That may seem unwise, but you have done it before.

And you’ll do it enough now that you’ll be increasingly aware of this very special skill— to swing from being a solid Taurus to being inquisitive, a visionary, which is what you can be at times. And it will be, the more you recognize it. This is an important part of your journey. The more you embrace this visionary part of you, the more you will accomplish, and the more you will enjoy life itself.

You and others

There have been many times that you’ve been confronted by those who are so narrow-minded that there is no point in even discussing ideas different from theirs. Still, their persistence can undermine your confidence. The fact is, part of the challenge is to trust yourself and your feelings over those who seem determined to raise doubts.

Health and well-being

Your passion about certain ideas or activities can mean you forget obligations, including taking care of yourself. While it is unusual for a Taurus, you’re borrowing that from the sign next to yours, Gemini, which tends to get so absent-minded they forget to eat or sleep. The solution? Return to your core nature, and take care of yourself, like a good earth sign.

Goals and challenges

For you, life is about discovery. While one side of your nature is tempted to stick with something that is safe and familiar, you thrive on new ideas and even unfamiliar settings. The more you venture into that new territory in terms of ideas and activities, even passions, the more you will get the most out of life.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

Don’t be surprised if certain individuals aren’t as enthusiastic about new ideas or potential changes as you are. While you’ve already explored these possibilities in depth, they’re new to others. Knowing that, invest time in explaining exactly what’s behind your feelings of enthusiasm. That should do the trick.

MAY 19

GIFTS Loving, Good Host, Musical Sensitivity	NUMBER 6
CHALLENGES Uncooperative, Rigid, Insensitive	(1+9) + (5) = 15 = (1+5) = 6

You move fewer muscles when you smile than when you frown, so it’s more relaxing

You

The theme running through your life, Taurus, is “rediscovering yourself.” You were born sharing the influence of Taurus, one of the most down-to-earth signs, and the creative, restless, imaginative Gemini. And with that toughness of Gemini in your nature, you’re always aware of future possibilities. This insight prevents you from getting overly stuck in Taurus activities alone, as important as they can be. However, it can also mean that you sometimes get caught off-guard. It could be that you are thinking about a new idea or possibly swept away by something exciting. An encounter will have inspired you or you have a vision of something you really must do.

The problem isn’t yours. While those closest are aware of these two sides of your nature, if somebody knows only the down-to-earth Taurus side, the individual in question could misunderstand you. Yet talking with others—using those Gemini vibes and discussing new ideas—with those who, like you, share these wonderful qualities of practicality and vision, will be fun. There are those who understand you. And as much as you enjoy the company of others, of family and friends, there will always be a few whose company not only inspires you, but gives you the kind of appreciation that is heartwarming. It is almost like a type of vibrational vitamins.

You and others

Dealing with others is easy if you employ your Taurus side, which is as charming as it is practical. But as you’ve learned increasingly over the past years, you have a visionary side, too. And it’s almost as if you are speaking two different languages. The trick? Learn to live with both sides of your nature, then share it with others. They’ll benefit, and so will you.

Health and well-being

Contending with pressure from others is nothing new. Mostly, they need to be convinced that your plans or ideas have promise or will actually work. But, in every case, struggling achieves nothing. Instead, it is about relaxing and allowing things to come together in their own time. This may seem difficult, but once you take a deep breath, those ideas will begin to fit—like magic.

Goals and challenges

You have a tendency to get bored. The remedy? Explore. If ever there were a time to begin, it is now. Learn the art of doing what you need to, and the art of exploration, and not only will you enjoy life and achieve a lot, you will begin to live your vision.

THIS DAY FOR EVERYONE

If ever there was a time to take certain ventures you’re passionate about further, it’s now. The planets’ favor is likely to take the form of certain extremely helpful individuals. You’ve already done all you can. So sit back and allow those who are both able and eager to give you a boost.