The zodiac sign Taurus, 20th April - 20th May, is ruled by the planet Venus and naturally rules the 2nd House. The Taurus symbol is the Bull. Taurus Archetypes are the Earth Spirit, the Musician and the Silent One. Taurus has the element of Earth, and the polarity Yin, being more inward facing and feminine in energy. Also ruled by Venus, Libra has the element of Air and the polarity of Yang which is opposite to Taurus.

Taurus people thrive on being in nature and close to Mother Earth. They are happiest feeling the wind on their face and being sunshiny warm, without wondering 'why' the wind blows and the sun shines. Quietly independent with a solitary strength, they have no need to show off, their fearlessness is a private thing.

Strengths and Challenges
Imbued with the element of Earth Taurus people love feeling secure and grounded, and as a Fixed sign they are often happiest quietly working on projects and tasks that make them feel secure and valued. Ruled by Venus, they love acquiring things to add to their nest and need to see beauty in their immediate surroundings.

Taurus and Astrology
They often love music, art and silence for the same reasons.. it makes them feel, not as an emotional tidal wave, but in the same way they feel the sand when walking on the beach, every grain, every crunch. Bing Crosby, Billy Joel and Bono are all Taurus people. They are the least talkative of all the signs because they happily choose silence, not because they are incapable of speaking. They are patient, they watch, they wait, they experience.

Bulls are often strong willed and stubborn. However this can be a strength. Taureans have a natural leaning toward loyalty, and in this their stubborn streak can mean they will stick by you, when others leave. It is said that of all the signs, Taurus loves money, but mostly they love security. Money usually provides this, however it's feeling secure that brings the most inner peace.

Challenges come when the Bull confuses inner serenity and security with 'stuff'. They can gather materially to try and gain a sense of inner peace. The Bull can also crave security to the point where they fear growth if it might threaten their safe little harbour. Conversely, they can also confuse simplicity with being afraid. Being happy at home, the Bull can propose they are living a quiet, simple life, when in fact they are hiding away, being solitary and 'spiritual'. Then, they can get bored, stubborn, prideful and stuck in their safe world to the point their solitude becomes a prison.

Remember no two Taureans are exactly the same. And whilst some of the key words used in pop astrology may indeed be ascribed correctly, best not to rely on generalisations. Your Natal Chart will show where your Taurus sign is placed specifically, as well as the corresponding House. Other aspects (planets and signs that are geometrically aligned), and many other considerations make up the total sum of a Natal Chart.

Taurus tends to be cautious and focused on their belongings. They make good friends as long a they are feeling secure and in a good head space. Reliable and difficult to budge at times as they need to be sure they are going to be okay. Security first, then relax. Can be hoarders as they tend to get fixated on things, and end up collecting possessions so as to display their achievements.

Taurus and Health
Ahhhh "Food, Glorious Food". Taureans are not only good looking, but they also love, love, love food. Upon asking my 16 year old Taurus grandson if he could travel where would he travel? He replied "anywhere where there is food!!!" Yes they eat, smell, feel, see and get enjoyment out of all their senses. Ruled by the planet Venus, the planet of love and beauty.

Indulgence has it’s drawbacks though. The ability to dive head first into the enjoyment of eating and drinking tends to go to their waist. They need to exercise and try to make better choices or restrict themselves from over doing the wine and dine thing. This along with other poor choices can lead to bowel disease and other stomach ailments in older age.

Common Taurean ailments include; throat-thyroid gland issues, sore throats, colds and coughs, obesity, laryngitis and swollen lymph nodes. Taurus you need to avoid the carbs as they quickly turn into fat in your body. Stick to lean fish, seafood, drink plenty of fresh water and eat seasonal fruits and veggies.