tarot for self care

Disappointment and Self-Punishment

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Today’s meditation was skipped.

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COTD02The @GlitterbyInk #DivineGoddess25 Challenge
Words and Wisdom Prompt for January 2 : Intuition

Today’s card is the Three of Swords combined with the affirmation “Addicted to inner peace. Get your quick fix.”

When we are upset or disappointed, it can be difficult not to lean into punishing ourselves and treating ourselves badly.  I know that in my case, times when I’m not happy with myself or disappointed in myself or my performance with something often has a tendency to turn into self punishment.

Today’s cards are a reminder that during times of failure, it’s okay to treat yourself with kindness and understanding instead of self punishment and negative self talk.  You are allowed to say “It’s okay. We’ll do better next time” and leave it at that.  It’s okay, in fact, to dig your toes into the dirt, tilt your head back, and scream your frustration to the sky and clouds.  Whatever you need to step past it instead of wallow in those negative feelings and self punishments.

Listen to your body.  Listen to your intuition.  Listen… and allow yourself what you need.

It really is okay. You’ll do better next time.

DECK USED:  DREAMERS TAROT AND INNER F*CKING PEACE CARDS

#DiscordTarotholicsJan2025 Challenge
Prompt for January 2 : World Introvert Day – What are you avoiding that could use some attention?

Photo-Jan-02-2025,-3-48-21-PMReading Summary: You are avoiding exploring your emotions (Page/Seeker of Cups Rx). In order to correct course you need to unburden your feelings and worries (Three of Swords Rx) with those that create for you a sense of emotional stability (King/Dreamer of Cups).

Take Away: When you share your burdens with others, it helps to lighten your load.  You’re all closed up right now from your time over the holiday rush, and need to loosen your grip on all those pains, disappointments, and worries.

Pull the blades free of your heart so that you can share what put them there in the first place with those that want to help.  They are there to listen, and in listening will help provide you with the greater sense of stability you need right now.

DECK USED: DREAMERS TAROT

Daily Self Kindness

I slept in. Not only did I sleep in, but I really, really slept in.  I got over 12 hours of sleep, and it felt amazing getting to just relax in bed for a bit when I woke up with no one around to bug me.

Healing from Grief

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Today’s meditation was skipped.

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COTD01The @GlitterbyInk #DivineGoddess25 Challenge
Words and Wisdom Prompt for January 1 : Destiny

Today’s draw is the Temperance card combined with the affirmation “We can overcome the suffering of loss with renewed energy and the right balance.”

We are not meant to exist in a place of constant sadness and pain. It is not our destiny, nor healthy for us in the long term.

Today’s cards are a reminder that healing from loss takes time. Grief is a horrible experience, and it can feel like it stretches on forever and will never ease.

It can be difficult during these times not to curl up into ourselves and hide away from the world, and at the beginning, this is absolutely healthy.  Eventually, though, to emerge out of the cloud of sadness and suffering that grief brings us, we must step out of that secluded space we’ve made for ourselves and let others in.

The last step of the healing process is not one that we can do alone, but requires others and the world around us.  It involves finding a balance between the hurt and the joys that the world  still has to offer, and letting those joys begin to soothe away the pain.

DECKS USED:  TAROT OF THE HIDDEN REALM AND WOODLAND WARDENS ORACLE

#DiscordTarotholicsJan2025 Challenge
Prompt for January 1 : Do the 1st Quarter Spread

New Years Tarot Reading with the Mystical Tarot of the Saints, Shadows of the Middle Ages Oracle, Wishcraft Oracle

Year Ahead Theme : Temperance

Moderation is the name of the game this year.  Take care not to move too fast or go overboard in the grand scheme of things. Remember that even things that are healthy and good can turn bad for you if taken in excess.

Theme for January : Two of Cups

Together time. It’s been a long winter with an extended stretch of separation from those that love you and your emotions. Use this month to begin opening up to your emotions and connecting with those that have your well being at heart. Close relationships are the best to indulge in during this time.

Focus / Advice for January : Turtle

Stay focused on the themes of stability and protection right now. Take things slow and practice a modicum of care and caution.  There’s no rush, and no need to push.

Ray of Hope for January : Bubble Power

Have fun and seek a lighthearted perspective. This ties in with the need to take things slow this month.  Step away from work and breathe in some fresh air.  Enjoy rather than just plowing forward with determination.  It’s time to meander instead, and check out the wonder around you while you’re at it.

Theme for February : Queen of Coins

Stability is carried forward from January into February, and you are encouraged to foster those stability factors in your life this month, as well as share that stability with others.

Focus / Advice for February : Talisman

Hold close those things that help you to stay centered. Foundations can feel shaky from time to time, even when you have a stable one under your feet. Give yourself what you need to keep yourself sure footed and centered, otherwise you may find yourself scattered and out of sorts.

Ray of Hope for February : Aqua Luna

It can be difficult not to fall into feelings of scarcity, especially when tremors make your foundation feel even minutely unstable. Make sure you are reflecting on your blessings and connecting with a sense of gratitude for them, and it will help you in seeing that things aren’t as bad as they are feeling in the moment.

Theme for March : The Star

Hope and optimism is the theme for March, and will require you to take a conscious effort at leaning into those ideals and perspectives.  Don’t allow yourself to fall into dark pathways, but keep your chin up instead. Be positive. Be indomitable in your hope and optimism.

Focus / Advice for March : The Moon

Connect with your intuition and emotions, and allow yourself to let go of uncertainties. It is in exploring your emotions that you remove feelings of uncertainty surrounding them.  Don’t allow them to go unexplored and thus the uncertainty you feel concerning them to grow out of control.

Ray of Hope for March : Time Capsule

Root yourself in all that you are. In who you are. Take time to explore that in the present, instead of always looking ahead to a better you that you are wanting to develop into.  It’s okay to be in the present and like yourself in the now, while acknowledging that growth will come in time.

DECK USED: MYSTICAL TAROT OF THE SAINTS, SHADOWS OF THE MIDDLE AGES ORACLE, WISHCRAFT ORACLE

Daily Self Kindness

I helped Ms B take down the outside decorations on her house this morning so that my brain wouldn’t be constantly worrying she was going to get up on a ladder and attempt to do it while I am not around.

Finding the Positive for December 29 – 31

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Card of the Day Tarot Reading with the Christmas Tales Tarot, Christmas Cheer Tarot, and Yuletide Tarot

December 29 – Mental Health Card of the Day

Today’s meditation was skipped.

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Today’s card is the Five of Cups combined with the affirmation “You are not failing. Depression lies. Keep going.”

There is a specific reason that these card of the day exercises are always focused on the positive. It’s a part of the mental health exercise that my therapist encouraged me to start a few years ago.

The problem is that when your brain resides constantly in a state of negative inner narratives and pessimistic views, it begins to hold sway your emotions and outlook on life, and can thus negatively influence your mental health. That is where my therapist comes into the picture, because I am absolutely one of those people whose brain lives in that negative space when left to its own devices.

This card of the day exercise is for self-care, and focuses on helping in seeing a more positive, optimistic perspective. When I started a few years ago, I really didn’t think it would help. In fact, I scoffed at the idea and was not at all enthusiastic about it.

Years later, though, there’s no arguing with the results. By pulling a card each day asking for “a positive message to carry with me throughout the day and offer perspective”, and taking the time to write out what that positive message is each day?  I have managed cut down on the number of depressive episodes I experience as well as shorten their duration.

This exercise doesn’t mean that the bad stuff isn’t still there, or that I ignore it. It just provides a positive touch of perspective to my otherwise pessimistic mind. It helps.

With the holiday rush over, it’s time to get back on the wagon. Today’s cards are a welcome back, as well as a reminder about what this exercise is all about.

I hope that in my sharing these daily cards publicly, it helps you too.

DECK USED: CHRISTMAS TALE TAROT AND SELF-MADE CHRISTMAS AFFIRMATION CARDS

December 30 – Mental Health Card of the Day

Today’s meditation was skipped.

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Today’s card is the Knight of Wands combined with the affirmation “I choose to see the magic and wonder in every moment.”

There is a reminder here about being enthusiastic in the pursuit of the things that you enjoy.  Don’t trudge through life with your enthusiasm flagging, but instead sprint forward eagerly like a kid with a sled in the snow. 

When you bring this enthusiasm into the every day, and apply it to ordinary moments, it allows you to see life through a lens filled with magic and wonder, rather than the sloop shouldered disregard that us adults often cast our gaze upon the world around us.

Don’t let fun, amusement, and moments of gaiety and laughter pass you by.  Dive in to experience and savor them instead.

DECK USED: YULETIDE TAROT AND SELF-MADE CHRISTMAS AFFIRMATION CARDS

December 31 – Mental Health Card of the Day

Today’s meditation was skipped

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Today’s card is The Hierophant combined with the affirmation “You make the world merrier with your festive cheer.”

Okay, so… to be fair?  I’m not really the cheery type. This isn’t really a surprise to those that know me. I do, however, really love the holidays.  I love seeing everyone’s enthusiasm for decorating and making things look beautiful and festive.  I like seeing the traditions that take place, and how they differ from person to person and from family to family.  I find a great deal of joy in these things.

In the week following Christmas? I’ve actually been able to enjoy some of them too.  I’ve taken drives to look at the decorations that people still have out on display, and visited stores where I’ve taken pleasure in seeing the holiday frosted cupcakes, the decorations on last-minute sale, and enjoyed the more relaxed atmosphere of everyone -not- rushing around like spastic chickens with their heads cut off.

In doing these things, I’ve seen those around me also finding enjoyment in them… in getting to share them with me.

Today’s cards are a reminder that when traditions are shared? They take on meaning. Importance.  And an atmosphere of joy and enjoyment that touches everyone involved.  Traditions are important. They’re special, and they’re meant to be savored and enjoyed.

Happy New Year everyone!

DECK USED: CHRISTMAS CHEER TAROT AND SELF-MADE CHRISTMAS AFFIRMATION CARDS

📆 Transitioning from December to January

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Month End Lenormand reading with the Petit Lenormand Noëldine

Here and Now I Exist – Who you are now, in your entirety.

Anchor and Fox – You are finding yourself with the urge to avoid risk and take things slow with others. Although you are feeling stable and comfortable in who you are, you are currently feeling cautious about moving out of your shell, and feel the need to take things at a slow and careful pace.

The Slough – What is to be left in the past as you move forward.

Woman and Ship – The absent woman needs to remain absent. Although they are on their way, they are still at a distance and have been missing for some time. Now is not the time to welcome a return with open arms.

What Lies Ahead – An ideal state or ideal self you are seeking at this time.

Star and Man – A hopeful, positive, and optimistic outlook with a sense of self-possession and stability. Your dominant temperament is rising. Make sure you take these urges to a good place, and don’t let your negative tendencies smother them or turn them toward somewhere dark.

Limitations – Negative influences, opposition, or ill will.

Fish and Book – Financial tomfoolery is afoot, and there are important lessons to be learned from an incoming experience that you are not going to enjoy. This makes perfect sense considering the building levy quickly approaching that you need to make time to see a financial advisor about this month.

The Boon – Positive influences, higher guidance, or divine intervention.

Key and Path – New avenues are about to land in your lap that you need to open yourself up to. Just because they aren’t the plan you had in mind doesn’t mean it’s not the right path for you. Don’t be stubborn. Be open minded and don’t allow yourself to get stymied by indecision or bullheadedness.

The Wound – An unpleasant past experience or event that is ripe for some support and healing.

Tree and Bear – There are those in your past that were meant to create a sense of stability in your life, but did not. This lack of stability from others when it was so sorely needed may have made you the fiercely independent person you are today, but has also had long reaching negative effects on your health.

Nostalgia – A positive past experience or event to acknowledge, reflect upon, and enjoy.

Sun and Moon – Take time to reflect upon those in your life that have helped you to sort through your emotions. They are the light that shines upon your moments of uncertainty, and help everything make sense. Be mindful to turn toward them instead of away.

A Warning – Something coming that can be prevented or overcome.

Letter and Mountain – Do not allow communication to stagnate between you and others. The longer you hold back and more you avoid dealing with communication issues, the more insurmountable those issues will begin to feel.

Empowerment – A future opportunity to work toward.

Mice and Birds – People talk and the assholes are restless. Make sure that you are paying attention to what’s going on around you, and any hint of whispers on the wind. You are not being paranoid, but instead need to be prepared to act quickly and decisively as soon as any issues arise.

Message from the Spirit World – In times when struggles approach and you feel held back or cornered in, be true to yourself and listen to what your gut is saying instead of the murmurs and whispers of those that seek to break your self-confidence.

Message from the Mind’s World – It’s okay for the softness within you to be on the retreat for a time. Know thyself. Know your needs and own them. Embrace the dominant side and have fun with it while it’s on the rise.

Message from the Physical World – Protect your health with time proven methods you’ve researched and developed over time. When you feel better physically, you feel better emotionally as well.

Take Away – There are warnings here about harmful rumors approaching and troublemakers trying to skirt along the edges. Be proactive and stay on top of these issues instead of putting them off until later.  Being decisive is needed in this area.

Take care of your physical health, and make sure that you are communicating openly with others about how you are feeling emotionally.  These two aspects of  your well-being are connected and work together.

Deal with the levy issue as soon as possible and don’t plant your feet in whatever plans you’ve been making in the back of your head.  That financial advisor has good advice to give and a  possible better route through the financial struggles to come than the ideas and worries that you’ve been percolating on.

DECKS USED: PETIT LENORMAND NOËLDINE

🌑 New Moon in Capricorn – December 2024

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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 courtesy of @moonandcactus

New Moon in Capricorn Tarot Reading with the Seasonal Fox Tarot Winter Edition

What goal can I train my focus on that is practical and aligned with my core values?

Five of Cups – With the holiday rush at your back and the new year ahead, it’s time to return your focus to counterbalancing your natural inclination towards pessimism and negative inner dialogue. Make sure to put your effort into seeing the positive side of things and seeking out an optimistic viewpoint not just of the present, but also the future.  Use these tools to help keep yourself from sinking too deeply into those habitual negative inclinations.

How can I best set aside time in nature, and what crystals should I consider bringing along to meditate with and ground my energy?

Page of Wands – Enthusiasm is difficult to rouse sometimes when you’re stuck doing the same old thing over and over again.  As much as you love your regular haunts and trails, it’s time to start branching out and trying new locations in order to spark a fire under your enthusiasm.

Hierophant – Carnelian agate or lapis lazuli

With the Page of Wands above, the carnelian agate is the better choice, as it not just holds qualities that align with the wisdom and strength of the Hierophant, but also the traits of passion and enthusiasm that are intrinsic to the Page of Wands.

The Fool – Lepidolite, tourmaline, or turquoise

The Fool is about trust, new beginnings, wonder and joy. It is the energy of a free spirit, and thus the crystal that aligns best for you in this instance is tourmaline, whose energies encourages opening up to new experiences while lending a bit of protection.

All Together – Tap into your enthusiasm for new adventures while leaning into tried and true methods. It’s okay to get excited about exploring new trails and areas, and that enthusiasm is good for you! Just make sure when you go that you are properly prepared for the terrain and eventualities that may arise.

Fears, habits, or patterns I’m ready to release.

Knight of Swords – Let go of the urge to argue just for argument’s sake. Instead, try to take a step back,  talk less, and listen more.

Where do I need to set stronger boundaries to protect my energy and prioritize what’s truly important?

Strength – Pay closer attention to those around you and their manipulative behaviors. Make sure you ae listening and watching closely. Focus on seeking out other’s motivations, rather than taking things at face value.

How can I best honor the discipline within me, knowing that every step I take builds the foundation for my dreams?

Eight of Coins – Remember that your skills are developed through time, growth, practice, and dedication. Trust in those skills rather than letting doubt cloud over your confidence.

How can I release the pain of 2024 and step into 2025 with clarity, purpose, and unwavering strength?

Five of Swords – Set your losses aside instead of dwelling on them, and move forward prepared to go into battle and kick some ass.

New moon advice from the Minoan goddess Amalthea.

The Chariot – Be proactive toward your goals and ambitions. It’s only when you take charge that you are able to pave the way forward with ease. Waffling and hesitation won’t serve you well at this time.

DECK USED: SEASONAL FOX TAROT WINTER EDITION

Finding the Positive for December 4 – 5

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The Storybook Christmas Tarot, The Christmas Tarot, and Christmas Affirmation Cards

December 4 – Mental Health Card of the Day

Today’s meditation was skipped.

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The @GlitterbyInk #DecembersChild24 Challenge
Healing the Inner Child Prompt for December 4th : Wonder

Today’s card is the Lovers card combined with the affirmation “You make Christmas feel like a warm and cozy hug.”

This affirmation card triggers a specific memory for me.  Last year (I think it was last year?) Gideon gifted my sister with a weighted axolotl plushy, which she absolutely loves.  Because the ends of it’s long arms are weighted, she says when she snuggles with it she can wrap its arms around her, and it feels like a real hug. I also have a weighted plushy from him (a fox) that I snuggle with often, because it’s size and weight makes it feel somehow… more substantial than a pillow or regular stuffie. Mutually, when we snuggle with these plushies, we feel a miraculous kind of release and easing in our chests and solar plexus.

Which brings us to the message in today’s cards and the wonder prompt for today.  For when we find things that make us feel good and soothe us on the inside, it feels like a kind of magic. Something wonderful to wallow in for a moment, and return to again and again.

In life, there are times when we need that connection. Not so much to a person, but to that feeling of peace and soothing. Today’s cards are a reminder to return to what helps us in connecting with that feeling.  It’s important to untie the knots inside now and then, especially when stress in life is high.  Doing so is a healthy choice, and a kindness.  An act of self love that we all need from time to time.

DECK USED: THE STORYBOOK CHRISTMAS TAROT AND SELF-MADE CHRISTMAS AFFIRMATION CARDS

December 5 – Mental Health Card of the Day

Today’s meditation was skipped.

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The @GlitterbyInk #DecembersChild24 Challenge
Healing the Inner Child Prompt for December 5th : Healing

Today’s card is the Four of Wands combined with the affirmation “Tis the season to be jolly. Fuck jolly.”

A few days ago, I had a COTD that encouraged seeking out the magic in the holiday season, even when it’s not your favorite part of the year.  Today’s card is a reminder that sometimes it’s okay to retreat when you need to… even when others hold expectations over you to not do so.

Healing takes time, and isn’t always convenient. Whether you find refuge in being home alone, or refuge in the embrace of family or friends… the cards for today are encouraging us that it’s okay to give yourself what we need. If that means celebrating?  Then celebrate.  If that means retreating and being a Grumpus over the holiday season?  That’s perfectly okay too.  The key is that whatever you choose, it is a healing process, and not just letting old wounds fester.

DECK USED: THE CHRISTMAS TAROT AND SELF-MADE CHRISTMAS AFFIRMATION CARDS
Note: This particular affirmation card was made from a Christmas Card gifted to me. I don’t know the artist’s name as it wasn’t on the card.