Published May 10, 2021

The New Moon in Taurus Prioritizes Radical Self Care—Here’s How Your Sign Can Make the Most of It

The full moon in Taurus of 2021 happens on May 11th, and it prioritizes radical self care. Here's the best self-care practice for each sign.

The New Moon in Taurus Prioritizes Radical Self Care—Here’s How Your Sign Can Make the Most of It

The full moon in Taurus of 2021 happens on May 11th, and it prioritizes radical self care. Here's the best self-care practice for each sign.

Published May 10, 2021

Written by

Adama Sesay

Photo: Getty Images/Westend61

Published May 10, 2021

Written by

Adama Sesay

In astrology, the new moon signals a fresh start and the beginning of a new lunar cycle. There are a total of 12 new moons in 2021, and each affects us in its own unique way. The new moon in Taurus of 2021 occurs on May 11th at 2:59 p.m., EST, and it is activating the need to change and start fresh in a situation that brings value. So, ask yourself: Where have you felt discomfort or inner-tension surrounding certain facets of your life? This new moon is packed with manifestation power, initiating the path towards a more aligned future.

The new moon in Taurus of 2021 invokes the energy of the materially focused Earth sign, ruled by the planetary goddess of abundance, Venus. It is in this dark divine feminine energy that creation and birth can occur, reminding us to re-engage back with our physical body, emotions, and senses in order to discover what is right for ourselves. In short, this new lunar cycle is about empowerment and radical self care.

This new lunar cycle is about empowerment and radical self care.

Taurus energy is all about self care that preserves your energy for what you truly value, setting boundaries, and not neglecting your well-being for the comfort of others. Putting yourself first is the ultimate form of self care, and the new moon in Taurus of 2021 urges you to break out of any devaluing and limiting situations with its connection to rebellious Uranus in Taurus.

Uranus has been shaking up what we value since 2019, and is also another energy involved in this lunar planetary alignment that promotes sudden change. Another powerful layer is the new moon’s connections with Black Moon Lilith in Taurus, Saturn in Aquarius, and Pluto retrograde in Capricorn. Together, they are bringing up where we may have given away our power or have not stood up for our worth in the past. It’s now time to release this and choose the reality you truly deserve and dream of.

New decisions and change can feel challenging, but this specific time is for your highest good. Below, learn what the new moon in Taurus of 2021 holds for your sign, and how to practice restorative self-care accordingly. For a more expanded view, read your sun, moon, and rising sign.

How to practice self care for your sign during the new moon in Taurus of 2021

Aries

Money and self-worth are closely linked for you, and the new moon in Taurus of 2021 is affecting this area of your life. Finally receiving a bonus, boost in pay, or influx of compensation for the work that you do can develop. This also can be a time of change in work for the better. Feeling underpaid, under-appreciated, or overworked can push you towards making the right career shifts for yourself. First it’s important to release fears surrounding money, and to embrace the belief that you are worth every penny. The universe will correspond accordingly.

Your new moon self-care tip: Set your financial intentions at this time with the power of scripting. The energetics of money is that it is a physical manifestation of our self-worth. Writing down empowering statements in first person can give you an energetic boost to receive, especially if you are negotiating during this time. In green pen, create 10 first-person statements on why you believe you are worthy of abundance. For example: “My work is priceless.” “I bring in my dream work without even lifting a finger.” “The universe always compensates me for my wisdom.”

Taurus

You have gone through many personal and professional shifts, and now the new moon in your sign is giving you the power of choice. Why settle for old situations that aren’t aligned with who you are becoming? You are feeling pushed to make a life-path change and to also shift surroundings in your life that don’t feel right for you. As the sign ruling over self care, it’s time to prioritize yourself first and make all decisions from this value-driven space.

Your new moon self-care tip: This new moon energy is in your sign, so taking time to reconnect with your element, Earth, can be incredibly healing for you. Getting out into nature, going on a hike or heading to the beach can all be powerful forms of self care. If you can, meditate outside and mentally set your intentions for this new cycle. Who do you want to be?

Gemini

This is a powerful time for you in finding your authentic voice. The new moon in Taurus of 2021 is activating the hidden area of your chart, which can allow you to access what you may have blocked yourself from before. This potent Taurus energy is highlighting where you may have not previously embraced and pushed for your value, especially in work. You can feel the cosmic encouragement to shift in a direction that feeds your spirit versus just your wallet.

Your new moon self-care tip: Taurus rules over the heart, and navigating this period through a heart-centered space is key. Moving your physical body through stretching and yoga can give you this moment. Take note of emotional tension, and journal how you feel after.

Cancer

Your hopes, dreams, and future vision can be brought down into reality under the energy of the new moon in Taurus. A new opportunity through your network, or a significant connection, could help open the road ahead for you. Being open to the possibilities is key, as is monitoring what truly resonates with you. It’s important first to release limitations you may feel around whether you are worthy of this new reality. Make the right choice, Cancer.

Your new moon self-care tip: The moon is your planetary ruler, and it can affect you more heavily than it affects other signs. This would be an optimal time to set fresh intentions to help guide your decisions. Create a vision board where you collage your dreams and what you would like to manifest, and hang it in a high-traffic area. It’s best to be clear with the universe in order to receive!

Leo

New career beginnings and a focus on a more fulfilling work partnership are the focus for you during the new moon in Taurus of 2021. You may be leaving behind a past situation that is no longer in alignment and ultimately was not positive for your career growth. This is a time when you can choose yourself, your passions, and what’s of value to you. While this life change is the result of tension, it will be for the best.

Your new moon self-care tip: Change can feel jarring, especially if you have not been expecting it. Grounding yourself through a solitary practice like meditation can help you reconnect with your thoughts and sooth emotional discomfort. If you can, put on a guided meditation surrounding abundance to help empower you.

Virgo

During the new moon in Taurus of 2021, you may feel influenced to increase your knowledge by taking a course, teaching your own ideas, or working with others based internationally to gain much needed perspective. Learn, grow, have faith in your abilities, and walk through this portal with an open heart.

Your new moon self-care tip: After a period of hard work, you deserve time in a soothing bath. Practice self-care under the light of the new moon with a warm bath including your favorite essential oils and salts. After, take time to plan your big speech, presentation, or launch.

Libra

This new moon is bringing movement for you regarding investments like a new home, a marriage partner who may receive an increase of income, or you could receive the financial loan you’ve been waiting on. After much of a holding pattern, things can move forward in a positive direction and finally manifest into what you’ve been waiting for. Ensure that you negotiate, stick to what is of value to you, and remain firm in your financial stance.

Your new moon self-care tip: A great metaphysical practice during this time by setting your intentions with a simple candle ritual. Use a simple and small green candle. Light your candle and focus with your financial intention by staring into the flame. Close the ritual by allowing it to burn all the way down.

Scorpio

Relationships, both love and work-related, are in the energetic spotlight for you during the new moon in Taurus of 2021, highlighting your value in relation to others. It can present a challenging crossroads where you must release what is draining you personally in order to embrace the abundance you deserve. You are worthy, Scorpio, so choose according to what feels right for you.

Your new moon self-care tip: Creating lists can keep us organized, and it’s an incredible way to make decisions. Using a simple sheet of paper, create a “pros” list and a “cons” list. Focus on the current situation you are dealing with and write down what fits under each. If there are more cons than pros, consider that as you make your decisions.

Sagittarius

The universe is bringing some much needed relief and the push for you to honor your physical body when it comes to your health and well-being. You may have been burning the candle at both ends or experiencing challenges in regards to your health. Now, you can decide to make a self-care-oriented change, whether that’s cutting back work hours if you are able to do so, or changing your day-to-day routine entirely.

Your new moon self-care tip: A day off could be soothing for you. If you can, get out in nature and away from urban centers to find rest. Taking a break from the grind can also bring mental clarity on what moves you should make next at this time.

Capricorn

It’s time to embrace the new and express yourself in the most authentic way possible. The new moon in Taurus of 2021 can bring about a new work launch or creative project that feels right for you. This is similar to giving birth because it’s something you’ve had in the gestation period for some time. Fertility or matters related to children can also be a theme for some. Remember to release attachment to outcome, and be in the present moment as much as you can.

Your new moon self-care tip: Tap into your inner child for inspiration and comfort. Activities like watercolors, drawing, and playing a game can loosen up tension at this time. If you have children, involve them in this as well! Doing so can bring back the fun and joy into your life, thus positively boosting your creative confidence.

Aquarius

Matters surrounding your home or new realizations regarding your family life are all in store for you with this new moon in Taurus of 2021. You may not believe the current home you are in is a fit for you at this time and choose to move in a more stable direction. Past ancestral patterns surrounding not valuing your emotional needs can surface, but the universe is encouraging you to take back your power through this new direction.

Your new moon self-care tip: Your emotions can feel up and down at this time. Through healing discomfort, you can align with what’s meant for your highest good. Working with an energy healer or reiki practitioner can feel especially powerful for you. Take time to do this to navigate the changes you’re experiencing.

Pisces

This new moon in Pisces of 2021 is encouraging you to be more outspoken in regards to your needs. This could be in the form of negotiating your worth or articulating your value to others. This is a big step for you in regards to your communication, and it’s also is a moment of personal growth through your voice. Speak authentically—the new moon energy is on your side.

Your new moon self-care tip: Find a private spot to meditate in for 20 minutes. When it feels right to you, yell, scream, or sing. This practice allows you to soothe tension and limitations, especially right before you publicly speak

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Lifestyle Mindfulness

Published Feb 20, 2025

What Would You Tell Your Younger Self? The Power of Narrative Therapy

Psychologists say reflecting on and writing down your life experiences has unexpected mental health benefits

What Would You Tell Your Younger Self? The Power of Narrative Therapy

Psychologists say reflecting on and writing down your life experiences has unexpected mental health benefits

Published Feb 20, 2025

Written by

Hannah Yasharoff

Stocksy / BONNINSTUDIO

Published Feb 20, 2025

Written by

Hannah Yasharoff

What would you tell your younger self? And how would you reflect on your life so far?

There's a new TikTok trend, inspired by a poem by writer Jennae Cecelia, where creators imagine they just got coffee with their younger selves. Each "version" takes turns expressing how they feel at their point in life. The younger version leaves the coffee date feeling the support and love they perhaps didn't have earlier, and the older version comes away with more clarity on how much they’ve grown, persevered, and learned.

"[My younger self] said she always felt like she made the wrong decision," wrote creator @hello.kelsie in a TikTok video that has amassed nearly two million views. "I told her I [now] never second-guessed myself."

Even Barbara Corcoran got in on the TikTok trend, looking back on how she went from “scared” waitress to fearless real estate mogul.

It may feel like a silly premise, but the trend actually mirrors a rising therapeutic technique: narrative therapy, which involves lots of self-reflection and putting on your creative writing cap.

The concept? Physically writing down your experiences or sharing stories of what happened in your life can help you break out of negative thought patterns, stereotypes, and other societal messaging.

"The stories we tell ourselves can become self-fulfilling prophecies," therapist Jordan Madison, LCMFT, tells Well+Good. Narrative therapy is all about looking at the big picture from an outsider's perspective, which can help keep you from internalizing problems or focusing only on the negative. If you understand the story of your own life, you can better figure out how to rewrite the next chapter to your liking.

Author your life story

There's some research to back up the benefits of narrative therapy. One study published in The Journal of Positive Psychology explored how a person's storytelling skills are related to their sense of meaning in life. Through a series of surveys, researchers found that across the board, test subjects who were dubbed better storytellers (by themselves, strangers, and those close to them) also had a stronger s ense of purpose, meaning, and growth.

Christine Pride, a longtime memoir publisher and author of the upcoming novel All the Men I’ve Loved Again, understands the power of someone writing down their story—both for the author and the readers. Pride jokes that she sometimes feels like a writer's therapist as they're working on a memoir together. And though being an author isn't quite the same as booking an appointment with a licensed professional, the steps of journaling for your mental health and writing a memoir for public consumption might be more similar than you'd think.

"There's a lot of personal writing that can be really helpful and therapeutic," Pride says, citing things like morning pages or writing letters you never intend to send in order to help yourself make sense of what you experienced.

In narrative therapy, it's also helpful to get everything off your chest via journaling before pulling back to notice which storylines keep popping up. After that, there's something to be said for pretending to be an outside observer, reading someone else's story. What unhelpful thought patterns do you keep seeing?

"Reframing and noticing patterns are huge tools in boosting your mental health," Madison says. “When you realize patterns you’re participating in, and that you have the power to change them, it helps you to feel less stuck and work on small habits and changes in thoughts and behaviors to do things differently."

How to try narrative therapy techniques for yourself

So you're intrigued by the concept of narrative therapy—what's next? Book that coffee date, buy your younger self that Frappuccino they love, and get reflecting. (And, of course, you can also book an appointment with a licensed mental health professional who can help you work through your thoughts.) If you're flying solo, try these expert-approved tips to get started:

Ask yourself the right questions
When journaling, it may help to have specific prompts to guide you. Madison recommends implementing the following questions as you reflect:

What is the narrative I have about this situation?
How does this story affect my thoughts, emotions, and behaviors?
Who are the characters in this story, and what are the roles they play?
When was the first time I created this story, and what situation made it develop?
What events or experiences contributed to this narrative?
Have there been times when this story wasn't true?
What is a more empowering narrative I can begin to tell myself instead?

Write like nobody will read it
While editing memoirs, Pride sometimes notices writers holding back the real emotional crux of their story because they're worried about how those close to them might react. Whether you're writing for yourself or an audience, you won't find the true meaning of your story until you're 100% honest with yourself.

"You can't write your story honestly if you're censoring yourself along the way based on fearing what your mom or cousin is going to say about it," she says.

(However, if you're actually publishing your life story, those close to you are going to have opinions, which you may need to mentally prepare for.)

Don't expect to fix everything right away
Writing the story of your life will take some time. Pride says that not only is that OK, but it's actually beneficial. More time means you might better understand the full arc of your story.

"You have to have distance," Pride says. "I tell people they can't really be objective without some distance, and sometimes that distance equates to time."

When you hug your younger self goodbye at the end of your coffee date, promise to keep in touch—the more you two get to know each other, the better you'll feel in the long run.

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Lifestyle Relationships

Published Feb 19, 2025

How to Use AI In the Bedroom For a More Satisfying Sex Life

With AI doing all the grunt work for you, no more excuses for putting connection on the back burner.

How to Use AI In the Bedroom For a More Satisfying Sex Life

With AI doing all the grunt work for you, no more excuses for putting connection on the back burner.

Published Feb 19, 2025

Written by

Jaime Osnato

Stocksy / French Anderson Ltd

Published Feb 19, 2025

Written by

Jaime Osnato

AI is officially making its way between the sheets. From spicing up foreplay to unlocking new fantasies, couples are tapping into tech to level up their love lives. So, if your bedroom routine could use a refresh, why not let a little artificial intelligence lend a hand? (Or, you know, suggest where hands should go.) Let’s dive into how AI can turn up the heat—and keep the connection strong—while keeping things safe and consensual.

How AI can enhance intimacy

AI isn’t just for writing emails or planning your grocery list—it can also help shake things up in the bedroom. Think of it as “your relationship coach, intimacy wingman, and communication guru all rolled into one,” says Kate Balestrieri, certified sex therapist and author of What Happened to My Sex Life: A Sex Therapist’s Guide to Reclaiming Lost Desire, Connection and Pleasure. Here’s how AI can take your love life to the next level:

Improve communication skills
Let’s be honest—talking about sex can be awkward. Balestrieri says AI can help break the ice by suggesting open-ended questions and conversation prompts to deepen intimacy, explore fantasies, and set boundaries.

If your relationship has mismatched communication styles or differing desire levels (which is super common), AI can help bridge that gap by analyzing interaction patterns and flagging potential stressors before they impact your connection, adds Nico Velotta, relationship scientist and head of relationship research at Arya, an intimacy coaching app and subscription box.

Our erotic needs tend to fall into four categories, says Velotta. Romantics crave emotional connection; adventurers seek novelty; directors prioritize straightforward, frequent intimacy; and connectors thrive on sensual touch. AI can help translate needs between partners, making sure no one feels left out or misunderstood.

Boost confidence and reduce sexual anxiety
Sex can be vulnerable, and self-doubt is often a mood killer. Balestrieri says that AI-powered apps can offer personalized feedback to help you feel more self-assured—whether it’s improving body language, refining dirty talk, or learning new techniques. The result? More confidence, better chemistry, and way more fun.

If overthinking kills the mood, AI can be your chill pill. It can guide you through mindfulness exercises, breathing techniques, and even virtual scenarios to help you relax and stay present during intimacy. Less stress, more pleasure—sounds like a win.

Become more attuned to your partner
Ever wish you could just know what your partner needs in the moment? AI-powered devices that sync biometric data—like heart rate or arousal levels—can help you tune into each other’s rhythms, making it easier to connect physically and emotionally, Balestrieri says. For example, you and your partner can use wearables like the Oura ring to track biometrics and share each other’s data, so you know exactly when you're primed for pleasure. Think of it as a high-tech way to get on the same wavelength.

Help rebuild trust
Got trust issues? AI offers structured exercises designed to help couples reconnect. While it’s no substitute for therapy, AI-powered intimacy tools have been shown to help couples regain confidence in their relationship and deepen eroticism, Velotta says. The goal isn’t to replace human intuition but to improve it—helping partners recognize and act on opportunities for more connection.

Reduce the mental load
Let’s face it: life is hectic, and the mental load of daily responsibilities can make intimacy feel like just another task on your to-do list. AI can help take some of that weight off by handling logistics—tracking schedules, suggesting ideal date nights, and even curating personalized intimacy experiences.

And intimacy isn’t just about sex. According to Arya’s intimacy study, one-third of people want more romance, sensuality, and quality time together—not just more action between the sheets. AI can help with the full spectrum of connection, from emotional bonding to physical play, all at a pace that works for both of you.

Ways to use AI in the bedroom

So, how do you put AI to work in the boudoir? Here are some fun, practical ways to spice things up:

1. Shake up your routine
Are you bored of the same old moves? You’re not alone. According to an intimacy study conducted by Arya, 75% of couples feel more connected after trying something new together. AI can suggest personalized intimacy activities based on your erotic persona—whether you’re an adventurer looking to try something new or a romantic craving a deeper emotional connection.

Got mismatched libidos? Happens all the time. AI can offer personalized conversation starters and intimacy-building exercises to help bridge the gap. The best part? It can adapt to your comfort level, making exploration feel natural, not forced.

2. Elevate foreplay
Who says foreplay has to start in the bedroom? Build anticipation with AI-powered sexting prompts, curated playlists, or daily flirty challenges.

3. Upgrade your dirty talk
If you love the idea of dirty talk but freeze up when it’s time to deliver, AI can generate spicy lines tailored to your (and your partner’s) comfort level. For example, Slutbot is a no-judgment zone to level up your sexting and unleash your wildest fantasies.

4. Explore erotic fantasies together
AI platforms can help you co-create erotic stories, giving you a safe space to explore fantasies without pressure, Balestrieri says. You can even use AI-generated scripts to roleplay new scenarios together.

5. Get a sex-ed refresh
Let’s be honest: most of us didn’t get the best sex education. AI chatbots or apps can provide accurate, up-to-date info on anatomy, techniques, and pleasure—all from the comfort of your home. The online platform Beducated even gives you a personal AI sex-ed coach to answer all of your questions.

6. Debrief and strengthen your connection
After intimacy, AI can help you reflect on what worked (and what didn’t) through guided prompts to strengthen communication and deepen your connection (and pleasure) over time, Balestrieri says.

Using AI responsibly

When AI meets intimacy, things can get complicated. For one, privacy is non-negotiable. “Intimate details require maximum protection—period,” says Velotta. Stick to reputable apps with strong encryption and clear privacy policies to keep your data secure, adds Balestrieri.

Consent is just as crucial. Both partners must agree on usage, boundaries, and expectations—no exceptions, Velotta stresses.

Bias is another red flag. “AI is only as good as the data it’s trained on,” says Balestrieri. Many systems exclude different identities, orientations, and preferences. If suggestions feel off, the platform may not be built with you in mind—so seek inclusive options. And while AI can offer ideas, it can’t predict real-life intimacy. Human connection is messy, Balestrieri says. Mood, miscommunication, or an off day can derail even the best AI-generated plan.

Finally, beware of emotional dependence. AI can feel eerily “understanding,” but it’s not a real relationship. If AI is replacing human connection, step back and reassess, suggests Balestrieri.

The bottom line

AI won’t replace human intuition, but it can enhance it—helping you and your partner communicate better, explore new dimensions of intimacy, and build a stronger bond. “It's about using AI strategically to enhance what makes relationships fundamentally human— understanding, growth, and connection,” Velotta says.

If you and your partner are on board, why not give it a try? Your future self (and partner) will thank you.

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