reading tarot

🌑 New Moon in Capricorn – December 2022

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Today is the new moon, and like all new moons and full moons, I did a spread aligned to the moon’s current themes as a part of my recognition of the moon’s cycle and influences upon us. Today’s spread is about the medicine within, and brought to you by Ethony‘s Tarot by the Moon series.

New Moon in Capricorn Tarot Reading with the Christmas Storybook Tarot

What have I been avoiding that I need to face?

Wheel of Fortune Rx – Shit happens, and you’re not as prepared as could (or perhaps should) be. You need to sit down and make a plan on how to prepare for those things you know are coming down the line… and for those things that might just spring up and slap you in the face by surprise as well.

What secrets need to come into the light?

Four of Candy Canes – Your home is a lot less put together than you want to admit, and it messes with your sense of comfort and  homecoming. You really need to get yourself another housekeeper to help out in keeping things up to the standard that makes you comfortable and happy.

What conversation needs to be had?

Two of Icicles atop Four of Cookies – Your “sense of security” needs to know that you still choose him. Talk with him and assure him that he is what you need.

Where do I need to take decisive action that I’ve been putting off?

King of Cookies – You can only self-destruct so long before you need to rebuild your empire. It’s time to let responsibility toward your work and finances to take the forefront.

What shadow aspect requires integration?

Queen of Mugs – Instead of sinking into disappointment with yourself, give yourself and your emotions the nurturing comfort that they need. No need to be harsh and judgmental.

New Moon advice from the Minoan Goddess Amalthea.

Ace of Cups atop Seven of Mugs Rx – The road forward doesn’t have as many distractions as you think. Orient yourself towards what your emotions and intuition say is right at this time.

DECK USED: STORYBOOK CHRISTMAS TAROT

Winter Solstice 2022 – Yule

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The Winter Solstice is tomorrow! This holiday is (in essence) the Pagan equivalent to Christmas. Fun fact… when Christmas was placed on December 25th, the church chose that day to coincide with the pagan holiday of Yule (because as most know, Christ was actually born in the spring, not in December).

Although many of us have been feeling like we’ve been in it for months, the Winter Solstice is the “official” first day of winter, and marks  its spot on the calendar not by its date, but by being one of only two days each year where the daylight and darkness are equal.  In my path, this holiday marks a day of hope for the future, and candles are lit to celebrate the return of the sun as it begins to now become more and more prominent with each day that passes and every day becomes longer as the nights decrease.

Yule

Like with new moons and full moons, I usually do a spread to check in with myself and give myself some direction for the next couple of months for each solstice, equinox, and other Sabbats. This spread is an adaptation of my Self Care Saturday spread, so there are some similarities in how it is read. The focus of this spread, though, is not about Self Care, but rather about progress and my path. The time period is also longer, reaching through the next handful of weeks until the celebration of upcoming Imbolc at the beginning of February.

Winter Solstice Tarot Reading with the Pagan Otherworlds Tarot, Compendium of Witches Oracle, Solstice Cards, and Healing Herbs Oracle

Theme of the Season – Winter Solstice, New Moon, Zea Mays

The Winter Solstice is a time of celebration that the light is to begin returning to us.  From now on until  mid-summer, each day will be longer and each night shorter.  With the longer days and the return of the sun, the earth will begin to warm.  It is the very first step towards warmer weather, spring, and rebirth.

This year, the Winter Solstice lands on the Waning Crescent Moon. This is a very auspicious time for the Winter Solstice, as the holiday itself is about the end of the cold winter and rebirth of light upon the world as the days begin to become longer. With the Waning Crescent Moon, we see themes that do with putting away and setting aside the old so that we can begin making room for the rebirth to come.

Corn (Zea mays) is associated with the sun and the elements of fire and earth, and are often associated with good luck, abundance, prosperity, and the balance between life and death.  Arriving as it does in this card on Winter Solstice, this card reminds us that the sun will soon come again.  It is a promise of what is to come, just as this holiday is as a whole.

When looking at these three cards together, the theme that I see here is all about looking forward to the thaw.  Yes, it is still a long way off, but there is good fortune and warmth coming, and the first and finest seeds of that are being planted in the present so that they can awaken as the sun becomes more and more present each day… and flourish as spring and summer eventually arrive.

Earth – Nine of Cups atop Three of Cups – It’s time to once again return to leaning into what makes you happy and celebrating those things you enjoy. Spoil yourself with the bounty of what lies all around you.

Air – Ace of Cups – Don’t sink into your head, but instead be open to the return of your emotions now that the holiday rush is coming to the end and let them flow freely.

Water – Wheel of Fortune – Not everything is going to go 100% smoothly all the time. Just make sure that you are flexible enough to land on your feet no matter the scenario before you. Becoming disheartened and giving up will help no one.

Fire – Nine of Coins – Appreciate and enjoy what you have accomplished throughout the holiday season. I look at where you are with clear eyes and a positive outlook in order to keep yourself from falling into negative patterns.

Waning – The Weaver and Offering – Throughout the holiday season you have created many beautiful things that you have sent out into the world at a rapid pace.  Now that things are slowing down, it’s time to turn all that energy in another direction.

Waxing – The Alchemist and Bee – Creativity abounds, and with the support of your community around you, you will have the time and energy to pour into your creative spark. Give it some priority moving forward.

Take Away – Plant the seeds for what you want to flourish later on next year.  Now is the beginning of these things, so reflect upon what you want to accomplish and start planting those seeds in your life now.

DECKS USED: SABBAT THEMED ART CARD, PAGAN UNDERWORLDS TAROT, COMPENDIUM OF WITCHES ORACLE, HEALING HERBAL CARDS VOL 1 & 2

🌕 Full Moon in Gemini – December 2022

/ Twist the Leaf / 1 Comment

Tomorrow is the full moon, and like all new moons and full moons, I did a spread aligned to the moon’s current themes as a part of my recognition of the moon’s cycle and influences upon us. Today’s spread is about the medicine within, and brought to you by Ethony‘s Tarot by the Moon series.

Full Moon in Gemini Tarot Reading with the Vintage Christmas Tarot

Where am I deluding myself?

Five of Swords – There is a price that must be paid for success and accomplishment.  You cannot expect to go full speed ahead and not feel the consequences of lack of rest.

What am I missing?

The World – Everything.  At this time you are so focused upon your work that there is very little outside of that venue that is able to catch your attention.  You are missing the joy of the holidays, the lives of those around you, even the observance of your own needs to an extent.  Right now, at this time in your life, there’s no room to see any of these things… and you are missing them all.

What perceptions need to be shifted?

Ten of Cups – You need to remember what makes you emotionally happy and reach for those things and people that can touch upon your emotions and keep them thriving and satisfied, even when the rest of your world is a chaos of rushing and deadlines.

What requires further investigation?

Six of Swords – What isn’t working for you and needs to be left behind?  It’s hard to focus on these things during the holiday season, but perhaps this is the best time to be examining them… as you can see in the moment what needs to change and what transformations you can apply to make things better moving forward.

What possibilities are ready to show themselves?

Three of Wands atop Seven of Cups Rx – There have been a lot of different goals and routes forward lain out before you over the past year.  Here we see that all of these myriad of possibilities are being narrowed down to just one. One path forward.  You have the opportunity to condense and focus right now, and align everything to move together in the same direction while shedding what isn’t needed.

Full Moon advice from the Minoan Goddess Amalthea.

Two of Swords – Kindness is important, even when you are so busy you can barely breathe. It is a choice.  A choice that takes no extra time, and no extra effort to give than sharp words and actions.  Make sure you are making choices that are good for both you and others in how you communicate with them.  Your words can sometimes be too sharp.

DECK USED: VINTAGE CHRISTMAS TAROT

🌑 New Moon in Sagittarius – November 2022

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Tomorrow is the new moon, and like all new moons and full moons, I did a spread aligned to the moon’s current themes as a part of my recognition of the moon’s cycle and influences upon us. Today’s spread is about the medicine within, and brought to you by Ethony‘s Tarot by the Moon series.

New Moon in Sagittarius Oracle Reading with The Shaman's Dream Oracle

What bad habit need to be kicked to the curb?

Wailing Tree – As recently pointed out in another reading that was done the other day, it’s time to examine where you are holding on to things from your past that need to be let go and begin releasing your resentment in these areas.  Forgive yourself, and consider softening harsh feelings towards others that were involved. These feelings are harming you far more than they are harming those others.

What positive steps can I take instead?

The Farther Gate – Step beyond your pain and resentment. Take the first step in moving past these issues. That first step can be much harder than you think, but is well worth it to find freedom from that ugliness you hold onto.

Where can I bring some adventure into my life?

A Tidy House – Who needs adventure? Get your ducks in a row and your safe space sorted instead. Only after you have this sorted will you be ready for “adventure”.

What needs shaking up?

Closing Door – That project that you’ve been feeling is decreasing in its margin of success? Don’t close that door just yet. Set it aside for a while, and come back to it later when you have some extra time to commit to it.

New Moon advice from the Minoan Goddess Amalthea.

The Wall atop Root Girl – Dig deep into yourself to find the strength to move past obstacles this month. There will be plenty of them to stand in your path, but if you stay calm and dig deep within yourself for direction and answers, you will move through  each obstacle without fail.

DECK USED: THE SHAMAN’S DREAM ORACLE

🌕 Full Moon & Lunar Eclipse in Taurus – November 2022

/ Twist the Leaf / 1 Comment

Tonight is the full moon, and like all new moons and full moons, I did a spread aligned to the moon’s current themes as a part of my recognition of the moon’s cycle and influences upon us. Today’s spread is about the medicine within, and brought to you by Ethony‘s Tarot by the Moon series.

Full Moon & Lunar Eclipse in Taurus Tarot Reading with the Moonlight Magick Tarot

What does my body require right now?

Nine of Water – It’s time to smell the roses and appreciate the good things in life.  You don’t have a lot of time left for that before the holiday rush starts, and you’re left struggling under the weight of the work that the season brings.  Enjoy it while you can.

Where in my life do I need to be more gentle and/or joyful?

Seven of Fire – You need to try being a bit more gentle and/or joyful when standing strong for your values and principles. It does not always need to be a battle. Instead, simply allow your moral compass shine a light that others cannot extinguish.

Where do I need to stand my ground?

Nine of Fire – Your boundaries are important. Not just those you set for others, but those that you set for yourself as well. Do not let complacency or convenience tempt you into giving ground in these areas.

What illusions do I need to unveil?

The Fool – Stop allowing your inner narrative to tell you a bit of fun and frivolity is something to be ashamed of. Contrary to what the echoes of your past try to tell you, it’s okay to cut loose now and then… and not feel guilt about it during or after.

What long-term project do I need to start?

Seven of Cups – No. At this time it is imperative that you cut back on options and distractions. Not add more.  You already have more than enough on your plate at the moment.

Full Moon advice from the Minoan Goddess Amalthea.

The Star – There is always hope. Lean into it and allow it to light the way.

DECK USED: MOONLIGHT MAGICK TAROT

Last Harvest 2022 – Samhain

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Coming up on October 31st is the third and Last Harvest of the 2022 autumn season.  Although this holiday (which is also known by most as Halloween and by many as Samhain) is celebrated around the world by those that embrace the rich history of many traditions that originated in Paganism, most don’t realize that is what they are doing… or that this holiday carries special significance as the eve of the Day of the Dead when the veil is at its thinnest between our world and those that have passed.

spooky_jack_o_lantern_halloween-wallpapdder-1920x1080

Like with new moons and full moons, I usually do a spread to check in with myself and give myself some direction for the next couple of months for each solstice, equinox, and other Sabbats. This spread is an adaptation of my Self Care Saturday spread, so there are sure to be  some similarities in how it is read. The focus of this spread, though, is not about Self Care, but rather about progress and my path. The time period is also longer, reaching through the next handful of weeks until the celebration of the upcoming Winter Solstice (aka. Yule) in December.

Samhain Tarot Reading with the Pagan Otherworlds Tarot, Compendium of Witches Oracle, Samhain Art Card, and Healing Herbal Cards Vol 1 & 2

Theme of the Season – Samhain, First Quarter Moon, Clove (Syzygium aromaticum)

Samhain is a time of connection. It is a time when those that have passed have the chance to reach through the veil that separates the living from the dead and connect with us… if we are open to that connection. It is a time to honor our ancestors, both of the blood… and of the spirit.

The First Quarter Moon is a time of preparation, when the world is building in energy and the moon is growing towards full. There is a moment… a pause here where the world takes a breath before the final plunge towards the peak of the moon’s energy.

The Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) is a representation of stability, responsibility, and strength. It is a spice used in protection as well in many rituals and spells. On mundane matters, it is an antioxidant, and also an antibacterial that has been used for centuries to fight bad breath and gum disease.

When looking at these three cards together, the theme that I see here is one of preparation and protection. Reinforce your wards and make sure that you aren’t allowing yourself to to be pulled into interactions with those on the other side that could be harmful to you. Only through cleansing and protections can you ensure the season goes smoothly and you will be able to continue to build energy toward the full moon to come.

Earth – Seven of Cups – It’s time to par down on your responsibilities. This includes those things that you do on your spiritual path that you can cut back on during the season ahead. Practical matters need to take precedence.

Air – Death atop King of Swords – You have no time right now to be stuck up in your head. Make sure you are communicating clearly and helping to guide others through the transition into the holiday season as smoothly as possible.

Water – Three of Cups Rx – There is no room in your life first parties and revelry at this time. With the holiday rush upon you in a mere week, you have to buckle down and temporarily set aside your desire for fun and frolic.

Fire – Ace of Swords Rx – There is also no room for new ambitions and new ideas right now. Write them down and save them for later what’s the holiday season is over. You can then explore to your hearts content once more.

Waning – The Dusk Child and Ruins – Shadow work and the digging up of the past needs to take a back seat for a while.Time will come when you can pick up this part of your practice again, but for now it’s time to set such things to the side.

Waxing – The Shaman and Autumn – Pay attention to those things that feel like they are falling apart. It makes you feel vulnerable, but the process is actually one that builds strength if you are a part of the process instead of a “victim” of it.

DECKS USED: SABBAT THEMED ART CARD, PAGAN UNDERWORLDS TAROT, COMPENDIUM OF WITCHES ORACLE, HEALING HERBAL CARDS VOL 1 & 2