Category: Tarot

First Harvest Blessings & Oracle Reading!

We have arrived at a deliciously abundant point in the Wheel of the Year. Known as Lughnasadh, Lammas or First Harvest, we celebrate the beginnings of the harvest season in the northern hemisphere. Traditions in the UK & Ireland include the harvesting of grain, making bread, feasting and games with community, and markets to sell wares and foods.

Not as many of us today are in tune with the rhythms of farming as our ancestors were. My mom grew up on a farm in Manitoba, and I grew up in the city of Winnipeg and now live in very urban Toronto. I have no idea how to grow many foods, live a farm-based life. I don’t even go fishing.

I have learned about herbal medicines and grown some here at my home, and I enjoy cooking healthy meals and supporting local farmers, organic farmers and sustainable, earth-friendly living. I love to immerse myself in nature and craft things that reflect the Earth Mother’s beauty and energy. This abundantly earthy season reminds me of how much more I want to do to live in harmony with the earth and support its well-being.

Unlike farmers, I haven’t been toiling too much on the land. But I have been doing a lot of inner work. Our harvest may not be such an external one, but an internal one, where we heal old wounds, come to a new perspective or place within ourselves.

I just want to soak up and receive the earth energies, knowing that they are short-lived and help me get through the winter. This is also my Balancing Season (the season opposite our Power Season- read my blog- ‘What’s your Power Season?’ here). During our balancing season, we are in receiving mode, working behind the scenes and balancing out our energy, rather than shining our gifts into the world.

This is one of my favorite times of year because I always find it does bring a harvest of some kind, and it feels rewarding. I got married in this season, had my daughter in this season, bought a house during this season. It brings a culmination, accomplishment or closure.

The harvest season can sometimes come with a bittersweet note. Maybe our harvest isn’t all that we’d hoped it would be, or needs some more time to mature. We may need to invite acceptance and realism into our harvest basket. Sometimes achieving what we set out to do brings a bit of grief, or sadness as we must let go of the journey and look towards a new future, even if it’s positive. Sometimes we realize what we’ve been toiling for wasn’t the total end game. There is more work to do, or some adjustments to be made.

Even if this is the case, there is always something to be proud of and grateful for. It’s important to take stock this season and appreciate how far we’ve come! Soak up a sense of pride and accomplishment for all the wins or strides you’ve made this year, no matter how small. Appreciate the greater awareness you have now, the deepened capacity, resilience, knowledge and any other things that maybe only you know has changed or shifted for the better. The outside world’s recognition doesn’t decide our worth or the value of our accomplishments, only we do.

First Harvest is not only about outcomes but about gratitude! Every night before bed I list the things I am grateful for. The more I do this, the more I invite bounty into my life, and the more I feel loved, nourished and protected. In a world that promotes a scarcity mindset, fear and constant self-criticism, living in a state of gratitude is a balm of healing that I feel we could all practice a bit more of. That, and some self-appreciation as well.

Other energies that are strong this season are integration, processing and discernment. The Summer Solstice season brought something (or several things) to light, truth and fullness. We have now absorbed that information/energy and are ready to process it into new structures in our lives. This is where we can get creative! We can channel our experience into art, we can help our physical body process with nourishing foods, new daily habits or projects. We can channel our energies into more aligned activities or pathways for the future.

It is time to resource ourselves and solidify our strength. To appreciate how far we’ve come. To take stock and reflect. To enjoy and savor. To show appreciation and gratitude to others, to ourselves, to the Earth, to Spirit, and all that have helped us get here.

We soon prepare for the deepening of harvest season as we head towards the Fall (which includes the 2nd and 3rd Harvest festivals- Equinox & Samhain), where we will be called to shed and release more layers of what no longer serves us as our authentic self emerges more empowered.

Some First Harvest Season reflection questions:

What are you grateful for?

What have you been working on?

What have you learned from the journey you’ve been on?

What are you harvesting?

What do you want to bring with you forward into the harvest season and what needs to be left behind?

Ways to celebrate First Harvest Season:

  • Support local farmers and artisans at markets
  • Craft and create your own handmade items
  • Hold a potluck gathering
  • Enjoy time with food and loved ones
  • Tend your garden, community garden
  • Harvest local herbs and flowers, create something with them- a tea, bouquet, incense, tincture, oil or craft.
  • Bake bread or another nourishing food in celebration of the harvest season
  • Soak up the earth’s bounty and allow yourself to feel nourished
  • Get creative, and do something that brings you joy

First Harvest Oracle Reading:

Looking for some insight on your path right now? I am pleased to present a new oracle deck I’ve brought into my collection called The Magical Spirit Oracle by Alexis Rakun. I just love it! It really embraces the feeling of life being a journey.

Take a moment to breathe a deep breath to clear your mind. Then ask ‘What do I need to know now?’ and choose a card. Remember that number and scroll down for its description. Descriptions are by the deck’s author.

Magical Spirit Oracle by Alexis Rakun

Remember that number! Scroll down to find it and your card…

  1. The Awakened Dead- resilience, nirvana, self-appreciation, future

Affirmation: “I honor all of me. My past, present, and future selves.”

This card can mean it’s time for you to have a powerful moment of self-realization about the life you are leading. As if you have already lived it. As if your future self is talking to you. This card also can mean that you have been self-critical and that it’s okay. You are on the right track, even if it’s not going as you planned.

Point of view: Imagine you are reflecting on your life from the afterlife. You’re so proud of yourself because you were always doing so much better than you thought you were. Yeah, you can see it now; you know it now. But you wish you could’ve known it then. You wish you could have seen yourself the way you see yourself now. God, you are so beautiful!

You realize it was always a choice that you decided to make, over and over. Even when you didn’t want to. You didn’t have to. It would’ve been easier, you know, not to. But you did. You chose to empower yourself. To begin again. To believe again. To pick yourself back up after you feel so hard. Nose in the dirt. Tears in the soil, hands grasping the Earth.

And it’s okay if you sometimes lay there, in that cold darkness, a bit longer than you should have. You were in pain. You were tired. And it’s okay if you judged yourself for that. You wanted the best for yourself. Because you believed: you chose to believe. Because even after your weakest, aching I’m-so-dead-inside moments, you called for a rebirth and a reckoning after the chaos ensued. You summoned those faintly lit and seemingly dormant powers to come out from deep within your soul. And finally they did. (Sometimes you weren’t sure though and that’s okay.)

It’s just incredible that even through all the craziness of this world and people, you did it. Ya know? You did it. Just wish you could’ve known you always could’ve trusted yourself. You always could’ve trusted yourself.

This card is a testament to the times we thought we were broken but instead were awakened. Transformed and alchemized through darkness. A salute to all the lessons ahead and how much grace we deserve to give ourselves.

2. Truth: Honor, knight, empress, integrity

Affirmation: “Abundance happens when I honor my soul and live in truth.”

The honest path, the honorable knight. The noble empress. The liberation of Self. The highest view can be seen once we have reached the mountain peak. And what a breathtaking view it is. A grueling climb that requires strength and perseverance can lead to a feeling of total freedom. This is what it feels like to set yourself free by the power of truth. Fulfillment on the level of soul and wholeness of Self. Regardless os what the world may see, you have earned your own sight.

The path to authenticity is not an easy one. There are temptations all around. The Witches’ lair calls you near. Dark forces seek to make you stray from the path. To neglect your true Self, discard your values and dishonor your soul. Some people will even choose the ‘easy path’ selling their soul in exchange for a shortcut to the top. This never works; this is the false Self. The starving ego. For when they reach the peak, their view is obstructed by thick fog and mountain mist. They become cursed by the one who lured them in. They will never see the view. Only living truly can earn this gift of sight and fulfillment.

The Truth card is about living with honor, integrity and authenticity, and having goodwill towards humanity. Being a real gem in a world of fake stones. Shining by your own light rather than relying on the reflections of others. It is to validate yourself, fully. It is to honor the callings and highest truth of your soul, even when faced with temptation.

Drawing this card can be a sign that you are currently navigating this path. You are indeed on a quest for truth. Living authentically has become a core value of yours. If you continue in search of this highest honor, you will surely be rewarded. In priceless ways. Perhaps, if you continue to live within the space of truth, you will achieve an abundance you never could have imagined. It is not dishonest to wish for true wealth in the metaphysical and physical world.

3. The Red Rose- Overcoming obstacles, finding joy, Buddha energy, carefree

Affirmation: “I freely flow and find my path. I nurture my joy.”

As an ally and guide, the Red Rose represents a being that blooms even in impossible situations. This particular rose grew from the concrete of the sidewalk. She had an all-seeing eye at the center of her petals. Sha has used her insights and magic to overcome all odds and obstacles in her way, even when others didn’t believe it was possible.

Her spirit is surprisingly lighthearted, playful, and colorful for such a resilient and spiritually connected being, who chooses to be stubborn and still seek joy, magic and meaning despite circumstances. This results in her ability to continue growing, and even uplift and inspire others as they try to do the same.

There is a carefree and fluid energy behind this card. The card and guide invite you to stop being so serious. To trust that you will make it through whatever it is that you need to. As you have in the past. You are not permanently ‘stuck’, so lighten up. Relax the worry, overthinking and doubt; it isn’t helping you or anybody. It only blocks what you want or where you’re trying to get to.

If you have pulled The Red Rose, it could also mean that a mentor or guide will come into your life to help you overcome an obstacle. Or a person who is already in your life could greatly assist you at this time. Is there someone who always seems to stay joyful and light? Observe and learn from these people. The most enlightened teachers on the planet are those who seem to always be giggling. The buddhas of the world. Learn from them. How they are, not just what they say.

4. The Alchemist- Empowerment, pain, sorceress, heart

Affirmation: “I light the spark of power and strength within my heart.”

The hero’s path. The gaining of strength. The path of empowerment.

Heartbreak, challenges, trauma, being underestimated, failure. Why should we let these things keep us down, instead of seeking to use them them as opportunities to overcome> To make ourselves proud? To strengthen our minds? To become a higher human and learn from them? This is the path of the hero.

Instead of letting the darkness win, the hero chooses to pursue the ultimate alchemy: turning pain into power. Not everyone is capable of this level of sorcery. For some, pain is very great and penetrates the darkness to the core of their being. Only soul and stubborn persistence can undo a curse like that. But the power does indeed exist within all of us.

A hero can still grieve, fall into darkness, give up, fall again, lose hope, seek help, or honor their natural emotions. The difference is they don’t stay there. In that darkness. Why would they? What would come out of it? What good would that do the hero or anyone else?

So they keep trying. They persist. They light up the darkness within their heart again, even if little by little, bit by bit. With the magic of faith and sometimes the aid of others, they choose to fight on for the light of the world, refusing to let the dark side win and become more powerful. This is how we change the world. Healing ourselves heals others, which heals the soul of the world.

At the end of the day, finding meaning in what happens and having a prpose is unbelievably empowering. This is what fuels our power. This is a love spell that we cast upon our own hearts. It is healing. There’s a big difference between having self-compassion and endlessly feeling sorry for ourselves. Falling into the bottomless pit of victimhood is to become the soul that is lost in the place where no light can reach, no tree can grow.

5. Goddess of the Sea- Abundance, purification, ego, treasures

Affirmation: “I am coming home to where my soul calls me.”

The fisherman has been on a long and challenging journey. He has been casting his net for fish but the fish do not come. His soul is starving and he longs for more. Suddenly, he sees a shining light in the distance. A soft purple glow that he decides to follow.

He is led to the Goddess of the Sea, her ruling element being the forces (and symbology) of water. Her purpose is to help us remember where the real treasures are. She can show you what it is that you need, not just what you want. And if you are willing to know, she can show you what is soul vs ego. She takes you beyond your false needs and false Self. She shows you a world of true spiritual abundance.

The fisherman symbolizes the ego and its endless desires and and hunger for more. Yet he is searching in the wrong places, and it’s never enough. He plunders the sea and gets lost in its vast expanses. After all his searching for more, he has never felt less small, insignificant, empty. Even though an abundant sea lies beneath hum and all around him.

The Goddess of the Sea dissolves everything that is not true or rooted in soul. This can be painful, as we all have our vices. She is powerful and represents the endless abundance of water, its purification power and the cleansing it can bring.

Pulling this card is an affirmation of her awakening within you. You’re starting to notice more of what is not true. You’re realizing more often when you are casting a net for false treasure. The things that used to sparkle have become dull and undesirable. You feel called toward what is real for you. You’re becoming less and less like the fisherman.

This card can also be a sign to watch extra closely where you are fishing. The Sea Goddess calls you near and has much to show you. You are so close to her. It is time to come now. Release your net. You won’t need it much longer.

6. Flower Child- Self-pollination, momentum, creativity, action

Affirmation: ” I am the beekeeper of my own garden that grows.”

It’s so easy to accidentally live for others; for their approval, praise and validation. The ego thrives off this; it’s easier to exist and make choices that way. But more than ever, now is a time to take your focus off the wants of others and start focusing on the pulls of your soul and heart, even if it ‘doesn’t seem right.’ What does Spirit call you to do? What is it that you really want to do, to feel? Ironically, perhaps channeling your energy there will end up being in service to others. Not desperate attempts to satisfy that come from lack, comfortableness and scarcity.

Dear Flower Child, throwing her seeds and flowers. You are blooming even when you thought you couldn’t. Your sweetness is now attracting the bees. Think of your energy channels as bees that pollinate (nourish) flowers and growth. You have the power to summon them and send them wherever you want. Where will you send them, Queen Bee? Remember this. This card has an energy of royalty behind it. What you say and what you think has great power behind it now.

With so many bees on your side, now is a potent time for creativity, projects, and taking action on whatever it is that you really want to do. Anything you act on or set intentions for has the perfect sacred soil right now, on the physical and metaphysical levels. So plant your seeds magic Flower Child, you are ripe with power and possibility. Use it.

Drawing this card can also be an affirmation of self-love and honoring your own sacred life. You’re at a place of rich soil (soul) nutrients. You planted yourself, watered yourself, and you’ve grown so much because of it. And so you shall continue. Even when it feels like you’ve been buried, you still find a way to flourish.

7. The Mystic- Intuition, high priestess, visionary, self-belief

Affirmation: “I trust that I am a powerful visionary.”

You’re a mystic. Stop doubting your insights, visions, and dreams. Your magic and intuition are on the rise. You are more powerful right now than you might think. Trust that there is a reason you have been given these things at this time. A hidden layer just beneath the surface will soon appear.

Take special note of any visions, peculiar night dreams, new desires, new life goals, or seemingly ‘random’ ideas you’d like to take action on. Have you had any recently? Ponder and pay attention. Perhaps there is one (or more) coming. You are a strong portal of connection.

It’s time to take a closer look within. And when you do, don’t invalidate yourself. Believe. Take inspired action and heed the signs. There are omens pointing the way. Patterns, signs, and repeating themes. Observe. Allow. Listen.

Spirit says: go deeper and be bold in your endeavors. Trust the dreams and desires you are inspired by. There is a reason they are yours. You have magic within and are capable of divine insight. Trust in that and your intuition will grow and deepen every time you do. Every relationship grows with trust and consistency. Your connection to your magic is no different.

8. Harmony- Sweetness, ease, inner child, softening

Affirmation: “I appreciate and attract the sweetness of life.”

The perfect pair. A beautiful harmony. The loving flower that provides the sweet nectar. The generous bee that provides the nourishing pollination. Both of these beings have so much to teach us. They are lighthearted, bring beauty and flow with the natural rhythm of life. They are warm with golden hues. They appreciate the balance and offerings each provides.

Magic happens when true harmony is achieved through delightful processes and the law of least effort. Some of the most beautiful things seem to exist effortlessly and in tune with the forces that be. Is it possible for a human to access this potent elixir, this nectar of life?

What if, like the bee, you were to seek out the sweetness of life? What if you sought out the flowers of the world, leaning more toward what is soft, attracts your spirit, and brings joy? What if that actually led you to more growth, potential and peace rather than the daily grind of forcing, disciplining and controlling?

What if, like the flower, you offered your own natural sweetness up to life itself? What if that would attract the bee (the right people, opportunities, actions, pollination) that your life needs, without having to strain to be what you think the world wants you to be. What if what is truly needed in this world is more softness, kindness, joy, ease and magic?

Perhaps it is our childlike nature, spiritual side, wonder and playfulness that we need to bring out more. To be easily amused by the beauty of the world. To see the miracles in the mundane. To open up instead of closing down. To create, live, and love from playful joy. To nurture the child within us. Maybe that is the best way to receive the honey of existence.

Did your card resonate? I hope it did!

Wishing you all the abundance, support, love and fruition you desire this First Harvest season.

xo

Serena

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Summer Solstice Wisdom & Oracle Reading!

We have arrived at the moment of the Sun’s peak power- the most illuminating point in the Wheel of the Year. With the Sun’s light at its zenith, much is brought forth out from the shadows, and this portends a gateway of healing and transformation.

The Solstices & Equinoxes are turning points in the season and in our lives. We are part of nature, interconnected with our human and non-human kin. As above, so below. In this very tumultuous year of change and rebirth, old power structures are crumbling, and we are collectively experiencing this on a large scale as well as personal level.

The brightest light casts the darkest shadow, and so this point of the year can magnify contrasts and imbalances, as well as shadow within and without. It can become painfully clear what isn’t serving us anymore, and where we want to be in the future. It is a time where great strides in healing and renewal are possible, if we harness the energies towards strengthening our inner power and letting ourselves receive the abundance of light and life that surrounds us. We may also need to let go of structures or habits that are no longer serving who we are becoming and shed those layers of burden. We can imagine old ways being dissolved in sunlight, transmuted and released.

Summer Solstice stands opposite the Winter Solstice, a time of darkness and traveling inward. Now, the hidden, inner world comes out into the open to be seen- which can manifest as buried truths being spoken, oppressed feelings being expressed, declarations, proclamations, decisions, directions and life choices being made. Like the energy of a Full Moon, Summer Solstice can bring things to a head, a culmination of the past 6 months’ efforts.

You may wish to think back on the Winter Solstice and what you were dealing with then, and what has been revealed or changed now. The seeds we’ve been planting may start to show their true colors, helping us to decide how to move forward. There is no rush to this process, however. It may take time for new awareness to be integrated. We can let the Earth Mother’s bounty nourish us as we make steps forward.

What is being illuminated or revealed? Where are we out of balance? What clearly needs to change or be healed? What new strengths are growing and blossoming within?

I find this time of year always carries an intensity to it-which can be positive, challenging, or both. Often both! The sun can burn as easily as it can illuminate, and we may need to remind ourselves not to over-do, which can lead to burnout. Just like wearing eye and skin protection, we may need to find ways to filter the powerful energies of this time, so they can illuminate without causing harm. This may come in the form of slowing down, enjoying the little things and doing what nurtures you rather than going full force towards your desire to the point of excess frustration, tension, or burnout. Offering yourself and others gentleness can help channel the light in more productive ways.

Summer Solstice is where the Sun enters the sensitive sign of Cancer the Crab. The crab knows how to protect their vulnerable inner core and trusts their instincts. They carry their home- their shell- with them everywhere they go, which can be a teaching for us to learn to have healthy boundaries and ensure we feel safe enough to venture onto the path illuminated for us.

The crab can also help us to fortify our emotional and physical foundations, our sense of being at home within ourselves. This season can support our efforts in healing our emotional life, our past, family issues, as well as create a more supportive home space or sanctuary within.

This nurturing sign offers us a balm to the heart, as we learn to forgive our mistakes, honor our vulnerability and open to love and compassion in greater ways.

What does it feel like to ‘come home’? What does it feel like to ‘come home to yourself’? What nourishes and fortifies your inner sanctum?

Ways to celebrate the Summer Solstice:

  • Spend time soaking up the sun’s light in gratitude and renewal. Allow the sunlight to cleanse your aura, and transmute the shadows into light. Breathe the sunlight into every chakra, or any area of your body that feel it needs healing. Be mindful of sun protection as well, of course. You can also absorb the sunlight through a canopy of green leaves, beneath a tree if needed.

  • Gather flowers, herbs, rocks, sand, shells, a vial of water or other gifts of the land that have absorbed the sun’s power and keep them as protection for you or your home. Be sure to ask the being first and connect with it! Give the land an offering in gratitude, such as herbs, a song, a prayer, or an animal safe food offering.

  • Charge your crystals, jewelry, or any other sacred items you wish to energize under the light of the sun! They will have extra cleansing and protective energies after at least a few hours of the brightest light.

Summer Solstice Oracle Reading:

The light of summer solstice not only reaches us through the sun, but through the healing magic of color! Each color carries a frequency that can harmonize our mind, body and spirit. Choose a card below from the Secret Language of Color Oracle by Inna Segal. You may wish to wear this color, use a candle this color in a ritual, or connect with a crystal, flower or other aspect of nature that carries this frequency.

Take a deep breath in, and exhale. Ask, what color frequency can most benefit me now? Choose a card. Remember that number and scroll down for its meaning!

Remember that number and scroll down to find it! Words are from the deck’s author.

  1. White- Lighten Up!

White heals your body as a whole, clearing toxicity and assisting with purification. White also enhances clarity and understanding, and can be helpful in healing skin problems. Bringing peace and comfort at the highest level. White represents integrity, light, holiness and surrender. Lighten up with White.

The feeling of lightness is a magnificent experience; it encompasses innocence, purity, and joy. White brings this faith that you are completely loved, taken care of and supported.

Close your eyes and imagine that you are standing on the biggest, most magnificent white crystal mountain. Inhale deeply, allowing the clear white light emanating from this mountain to purify, energize and enlighten you. Visualize yourself letting go of all the unnecessary baggage that you dragged up the mountain with you. How does it feel to be free of this baggage? Experience the ease in your body and soul as you look out from the mountain. Focus on circulating white light from the tips of your toes through your whole body. Feel your body softening and lightening up even more. You are getting ready to soar. Give yourself permission to soar!

Say “I give myself permission to lighten up and experience ease in my body and soul.”

2. Cyan- Build Your Confidence

Cyan strengthens your confidence and belief in yourself, balancing the systems of your body and giving you clarity in times when you need to make choices. It also helps release stress to attain peace and relaxation, and can help fine-tune your communication abilities. Build your confidence with the help of a cyan circle.

Close your eyes and take a slow deep breath in. As you breathe out, allow yourself to completely let go of all the stress and tension in your body. Take in another slow breath and visualize a deep cyan color filling your whole body. Then, as you breathe out, relax.

Imagine a big cyan circle in front of you, focusing on the different qualities that make a person feel confident. They might be things like knowing what you are doing, feeling good about yourself, feeling happy, getting what you want, and so on. Place all these qualities into the cyan circle, and then visualize stepping into the circle yourself. Breathe in all of those qualities, allowing yourself to become more confident and empowered. When you feel completely confident, clap your hands three times and say: “I now embrace my confidence, happiness and clarity” and walk out of the circle.

From now on, every time you need an extra boost, clap your hands three times and breathe in confidence from your cyan circle.

3. Coral- Allow synchronicity and flow into your life

Coral restores physical vitality with its grounding properties, releasing stress, worry and anxiety. See things from a different point of view with coral and heal a broken heart and unrequited love. Coral also helps bring synchronicity and flow into your life.

Imagine coral rays shining out of your heart, allowing more flow and synchronicity into your life. See or sense yourself stepping onto a coral road that leads you onto the right path. In this vibration, things happen easily in synchronistic ways.

Say “My life is easy and full of synchronicity. I follow the most divine path for me.”

Any time you have to make a new decision and need some extra help, visualize stepping on the coral path.

4 . Purple- Develop mental clarity

Purple helps with eyesight, hearing and bringing back a sense of smell; clears mental complexes, negativity and inflammation; and aids with rheumatism, pain and the healing of bones. Creating a connection between your mind, body and soul, purple also brings positivity and success. Use purple to clear your mind and let go of negativity.

Light a purple candle and focus your attention on it. Become aware of any negative thoughts or feelings you are experiencing, saying each aloud as you burn the candle. Imagine the negativity being consumed by the flame of the candle, then say “Divine Intelligence, please delete this negative thought from my mind, body and energy field.”

Now focus on creating a positive state of mind. Say positive affirmations that can help you feel more inspired and peaceful in your life. Say “Divine Spirit, please install thoughts and feelings of clarity, peace and gratitude.” Keep practicing this exercise until your mind is purified of all negativity.

5. Black- Find richness from the dark night

Black is a color of protection, strength and retreat- a gateway to new experience and a test of strength and resolve. Many people experience the dark night of the soul in order to gain wisdom and emerge for the better on the other side. Black dissolves the old so you can welcome the new. Receive divine wisdom and the gifts that have been buried deep inside you with the help of the black ray.

At some point in life, everybody experiences a dark night of the soul. Give yourself permission to connect with the black ray so it can guide you to the gifts which lie in shadow. Visualize yourself in darkness and ask for divine wisdom to show you what you need to learn from the shadow. Receive its gifts to strengthen your faith. Say “Divine Spirit, infuse me with the strength, wisdom and courage to learn from the shadow aspect of myself.”

6. Azure- Protect Yourself

Azure purifies your aura and strengthens your connection to the Divine, leading you to discover your truth and empowering you to make important life choices. Immerse yourself with azure rays to protect yourself from negative, dense energies and to find your center.

Breathe in azure rays of light to feel safe and secure, imagining an azure bubble of light that surrounds and protects you. Say “I ask Divine Healing Light to surround me with love, peace and healing. Please bar any dense energy from entering my space and affecting me. Thank you.” Do this for yourself and your loved ones whenever you would like some added protection.

7. Rose- Attract a relationship

Rose is a color of romance, deep love, and affection that assists with opening the heart and attracting a healthy relationship into your life. It can help you if you have low self-esteem, loneliness, and sadness, and Rose is also great for releasing worry and stress.

The color rose helps to attract love into one’s life. Today, wear a rose-colored top, or hat, focusing on this ray and allowing yourself to be playful and have fun. Different shades of pink, especially rose, awaken your heart and allow you to be open to other people.

Use a pink pen to write down all the things you love about yourself. As you become aware of your value. so will other people. Write down all the people you love in your life, and let that love energy build. Allow yourself to feel grateful for all of these wonderful people. The more love you feel, the easier it is to attract more of it. If you are looking for a relationship, write down all the qualities you would like in a person. Then close your eyes and imagine placing your list into a rose bubble Observe it as it floats out into the universe, looking for your perfect mate. Now all you have to do is be open for this wonderful new person to come into your life. Say “Divine intelligence, I am open to attracting wonderful people with open minds and loving hearts into my life.”

8. Pearl- Connect to the Divine

Pearl is a special shade of white that calms, purifies, and promotes faith. It allows you to flow with life and connect to your Divine nature. The color of personal integrity, truth and loyalty, pearl brings clarity, peace and harmony into your life. To strengthen your connection to the Divine, visualize pearly light.

Imagine a ladder made of pearly light, and begin climbing this ladder in your mind’s eye. With every step, allow yourself to breathe in more pearly light, clearing your mind and releasing all the density and heaviness in your body. Allow yourself to focus on purity, clarity, and the divine connection between your body, mind, emotions and soul. When you feel like you are close to the divine light, open your arms wide to receive it.

Did your card resonate? I hope it did! May this Summer Solstice bring you so much beauty, color, abundance and healing!

xo

Serena

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Beltane Wisdom & Oracle Reading!

Welcome to the season of Beltane!

Beltane is the anglicized word for Bealtaine in Irish Gaelic which means ‘bright fire’ and is also the name of the month of May in Ireland. In Scottish Gaelic it is Latha Bealltainne. In Wales, it is called Calan Mai. In England and parts of Europe, it is May Day and in Germany it is called Walpurgisnacht.

Beltane is one of the four fire festivals, and thus bonfires are an important element of this celebration. The sacred smoke, ash and flames are used for cleansing and protection. A commonly held rural tradition was to light two bonfires and pass the cattle through the smoke to cleanse of bugs, bless and protect them as they went out into the summer pastures. The ash was sprinkled over crops for protection and used to protect the self and space as well.

This is a time of year when it was also important to appease the Fairies, as they are out causing mischief, so offerings were given.

As a season of growth and fertility, celebrations often include Maypole dancing, and fertility rites to encourage abundance.

Here in Canada, the buds are just starting to appear on the trees and new life is just sprouting from the ground. The sun is strong and the earth is warming up, with new life finally manifesting before our eyes!

Like young new shoots reaching for the sun, it is important that we too open to receive the nourishment we need to grow right now. This may mean feeding ourselves with nourishing food, rest, and positive, supportive people, online content and thoughts, as well as releasing things that drain us. Like with a plant, we must create the right conditions for us to thrive.

Once we do this, we may notice our own vitality and creative energy increases, and we become stronger and more resilient. Our ability to heal, to start new projects and ventures, to get out and socialize, are increased as well. It becomes easier to harness the energy of growth and manifest our dreams into reality!

If we have been feeling low energy, anxious, or impatient and desperately wanting to create change in our life, it can be helpful to ground our energy by reacquainting ourselves with the land. The Earth’s rhythms are deeply soothing and supportive to helping us reach our goals with greater ease, trust and enjoyment.

Each plant blooms in its own unique way and timing. We must honor the process of manifestation rather than getting too rigid about the goal and timing. We will get where we need to be with the earth as our guide. The land reminds us to trust the natural process, and to create sustainable, realistic goals.

It is a great time to get your hands dirty in a garden, go out for walks in the sunshine and open to the bounty the Earth is offering to you. Take in beautiful scenery, listen to the sounds of the birds or ocean waves, sit on the grass for a picnic or rest under the shade of a mighty tree. Give yourself permission to receive, to be nourished, and to experience pleasure. Let the wisdom of your senses lead the way forward!

The next several weeks are a great time to put your ideas, feelings and creative energy into tangible actions! The energy of manifestation is building, and the universe is supporting our ability to birth new creations into life. Tend the garden of your life in the ways that feel right to you. Make adjustments, create necessary boundaries, release the old to open up more space, plant new seeds, and cultivate ongoing projects to be in the shape you want. You are supported in all your endeavors now.

Beltane is about celebrating being alive, and joining our unique song with the song of the universe. What we put forth now will become part of our harvest later!

Your Beltane Oracle Card Reading:

Take 3 deep, cleansing breaths. Ask ‘What do I need to know now?’ and choose a card below. Alternatively you may ask a specific question about your life right now. Scroll down for its description. Words are of the deck’s author.

Seasons of the Witch Beltane Oracle by Lorraine Anderson & Juliet Diaz

Remember that number! Scroll down to find your card…

  1. Orgasm: Release

Thrust your body, elevate your spirit, open the gates to your renewal.

Release is a necessary part of life that you must give way to from time to time. When that does not happen, your soul becomes too overwhelmed and will seek release in more destructive ways. Never is this more true than with emotions: Lower vibrations such as anger, jealousy, and rage can consume you if they are left unchecked. You may think you are getting over what you feel by ignoring it or locking it in the back of your mind, but eventually your emotional baggage will seek another outlet and may manifest in self-destruction, illness, chaotic outbursts or other negative expressions of release.

An emotional release doesn’t have to be dramatic; there are many ways your can free yourself from the storm brewing within. Giving yourself to creative expression is a healthy way to channel darker emotions. Dance or cook or lose yourself in art, body expression or music. The medium doesn’t matter if it brings you a sense of freedom.

2. Boundaries: Self-Respect

Sewn into the parts of who you are for they are not to be crossed.

Self-love can be expressed in many different ways. Sometimes it needs to manifest in a spa day with girlfriends, getting up to exercise or sleeping later than usual, while at other times it manifests in a need to set and enforce boundaries so that no one person completely drains you of your energy. No one is allowed or even needs to take all of you; no one has teh right to demand all of your time, energy or resources or any parts of who you are. It isn’t selfish to want to keep some things for yourself, as doing so is a show of self-respect and an understanding that you cannot give what you don’t have.

Imagine trying to give more of your time when you don’t have enough in the day to do what’s already on your plate. Imagine spending more money when you’re already in debt or giving more of your energy to make someone else happy when you’ve been depressed for a long time. You have pulled Boundaries because you are giving too much of yourself away without recharging your batteries. You are encouraged to say ‘NO’ more often or the very least ‘Not right now’. Know that this is for the good of everyone in your personal orbit, that you will have so much more to give once you are in a proper place of balance. Additionally, make sure to follow through with any boundaries you’ve set, as other people will push your limits to see how much you’re willing to bend to their desires. Stay committed to yourself and stand your ground.

3. Phoenix: Rebirth

Summoned, your flesh rises from the ashes and into the expansive flame of your soul.

Phoenix is the ultimate expression of life, death and rebirth. She allows self-destruction to take hold, tearing apart the old so that a new, more enlightened being can take shape, You can see the intelligent process of the life and death cycle all the time- one season sheds into another, one day drifts into the past and allows a new day to enter the present; the bush loses one brilliant bloom so that a new rose can flourish.

Phoenix is lighting a blaze in your life. You are about to embark on a fresh journey, but before you can welcome the new, you must be willing to shed something old. Do not consider this process to be a sacrifice. Instead, consider it to be a trade in or an upgrade rather than a loss, for what you will receive in return will be much improved from what you have now. Even if you are happy in your current situation, pulling this card is a sign that there are bigger, better things just over the horizon.

Additionally, Phoenix represents a breakthrough or a significant change in circumstances. What you have inquired about today is nearly at its end. In this way, Phoenix represents hope for a new beginning. You may be the lucky receiver of a financial windfall, suddenly find the solution to a long-term problem or move past troubles in a relationship. Be at peace, for soon all will be well.

4. Growth: Expansion

Inside myself I’ve sewn beauty with wounds, which speaks of my immortality in the expansive eternal song softly bellowing in spirit.

In ancient times Beltane would have been considered to be the start of summer, the season of action, abundance, and energy. The universe will present you with opportunities in such a period of growth but you must be willing to meet opportunity with commitment and passion.

Make those calls, start researching and be ready to make your pitch when you’re put on the spot. Your dreams are out there for the taking but you must be willing to do the work to see them grow.

You have pulled Growth to remind you that success lies outside of your comfort zone. This card is challenging you to reach for things that are much bigger than you’d normally go for. Do not worry about the outcome, but instead focus on what you can do today to be one step closer to the goal line. Just as farmers have to do heavy lifting during spring pulling weeds, fertilizing crops and monitoring growth, you will also need to expend energy to reap your harvest down the road.

5. Sacred Waters: Healing

Drunken by the swell of the sea, I can feel the blanket of her embrace. Unafraid of the presence releasing the cords, I call her in, I call her deeply within.

This card comes to a reading when you are ready to heal wounds that have troubled you for many moons, perhaps lingering pains from things lost or the weight of the past that creeps up to haunt you at night. Pulling Sacred Waters is a sign that you will soon be renewed and your soul will release the cords that have bound you to memories of old.

You may not know what needs to be healed- you could be carrying baggage that isn’t immediately present in your consciousness- but the effects of such deep healing will become evident in the changes happening around you. Do not question the blessings coming into your life; they are here because you are slowly learning to wash away the blocks that have previously prevented such abundance.

Sacred waters reminds you to be gentle with yourself in the coming weeks. Difficult emotions or painful memories may surface, but this is your spirit bringing them to your awareness so they can be healed for good. If you do experience painful memories, allow them to wash over you. Do not try to overcome what you feel or allow yourself to feel guilty for what you’re feeling. Simply experience the wave, allowing it to pass at its leisure.

6. Rowan: Protection

There is no need to fear, dear one; protected you are and protected you always will be.

With success also comes envy and, sad as it may be, there are those who will seek to possess what you have. This is true even if you do not feel particularly successful. There are those who believe you are better and smarter and have something they do not. The good news about pulling Rowan is that you are protected and safe from any forces wishing to move against you.

Those who are seeking to bring you harm do not have what it takes to defeat you. Yes, you may need to defend yourself, but you have worked hard for what you have an you are more than capable of standing your ground. Push back against any adversity; knowing that you are supported by the universe in your fight. All will be well, and while it may be challenging you will emerge from this struggle unharmed.

7. Ribbons: Awareness

For it lives in the silk of my binding, the knots in my truth; the eye of becoming, the witness swallowed in stillness.

Dear sacred soul, Ribbons reminds you that you already know the answer to what you have inquired about. You are connected to your situation in a way that makes it clear what your next steps should be, so follow the signs- or in this case, the ribbons- and allow the truth of your query to come to your consciousness. Trust in your ability to see what you need at this moment. It may be scary or require more of you than you’d hope, but you can move forward with the knowledge that this path is for your greatest good and will lead you to success.

Additionally, pulling this card means the signs have been around you for some time waiting for you to invite them into your awareness. Be especially mindful of any colors, animals, numbers or feelings that crop up repeatedly as they are messages from the divine guiding you to the truth of your situation.

8. Honey: Sweetness

The sweetness of you swells in the grace of your pull, oh so beautifully lethal.

You’ve probably heard the phrase ‘You catch more flies with honey than vinegar’, which easily applies to manifestation, magick and even healing. Your soul attracts more with positivity, love and compassion that it does anger, frustration and sadness, so if you have found yourself in a period of unrest, jealousy, heartache or fear know that the path to healing yourself is through allowing sweetness to swell within your being.

Rejoice in the success and good fortune of others. Celebrate the good in your life rather than focusing on what’s wrong or broken. Find compassion and forgiveness for those who have brought you pain. Each act of sweetness, even if you have not felt much heartache and are currently experiencing a period of good fortune. The more you lean into kindness of heart the more increase you shall see return to you: an increase in love, wealth, health, or joy or all of the above.

Did your card resonate? I hope it did!

Wishing you blessings of love, ease, peace, health, joy, abundance and dreams birthing into form this Beltane season!

xo

Serena

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Flowing Gently into 2025 + Oracle Reading!

A quiet, liminal energy flows through this gateway, as we enter a New Moon in Capricorn on Dec 30th, right before welcoming a new calendar year. So much has transpired over the past year, and there is much to come. This moment of reflective pause is an opportunity to just exhale. Let go. Rest. Reflect.

Allow for spaciousness and emptiness to hold you in its potential. Allow silence to surround you so your heart’s voice can be heard.

Take a moment to reflect on all that you’ve accomplished. Not just external things that society values, but the subtle, internal ways in which you’ve changed- the quiet shifts no one else noticed, the spiritual, emotional or physical challenges you overcame. Give yourself the recognition you deserve, for you’ve come a long way. You’ve made it here. And you will flow into 2025 with so much potential to grow, change and offer your gifts to the world!

There is no rush to get the next year all figured out now. We don’t need to prove ourselves by fitting in or keeping to imposed timing. We can take our time to truly listen in to the beat of our own drum and let our goals organically flow from there. Mars- planet of action- is retrograde until Feb 23rd, slowing us down and allowing us to ponder our next moves more deliberately, ensuring our New Year’s goals are aligned with our heart and souls’ authentic needs.

This Capricorn New Moon on Dec 30th is a grounding one and asks that we turn our focus to the structures and foundations of our lives over the next few weeks. It asks that we start getting real and begin creating sustainable structures that support our well-being, dreams and goals. So, there is a very productive energy here we can work with, it is just best to think slow and steady, small steps forward. Rushing ahead into a big drastic change, or on something we feel we should do, but that isn’t aligned with what we desire won’t work for us.

Capricorn is realistic and conscientious, valuing sustainability. This is why its planet Saturn, rules commitment. When we truly commit our heart to something, we must think about how we can sustain that over the long-term. It is often easier to sustain a commitment when we have realistic expectations of ourselves. Not exceptionally low ones based in self-limiting beliefs or exceptionally high ones that are unattainable. We must find the balance. Also, our heart and soul’s investment in the goal is key to being able to sustain our efforts!

This New Moon, we can reflect on what our heart and soul needs are at this time. Then we can decide what goals feel compelling enough to commit our energy to. We can then begin to create a pathway forward with realistic baby steps. We must decide where we’d like to commit our precious energy in the weeks to come and slowly build something nourishing and abundant for ourselves and others in the future.

Capricorn’s ruler, Saturn is direct in Pisces, reminding us that our actions in daily life are like a devotional prayer to what we believe in. Whether it is a dream, a cause, an ideal or an energetic vibration we are trying to manifest on Earth, we must get clear on what it is we are devoting our energy to, and how we’d like our daily actions and commitments to reflect that.

A reminder that commitment is a process and doesn’t have to be a rigid set of rules that never bend! Give yourself grace to experiment and change your approach if needed along the way. Process is progress. Commitment requires flexibility to be sustainable, too.

This Capricorn New Moon can teach us the art of commitment. Let it be a process, a learning experience, an expression of your passion and devotion- not something you either succeed or fail at. 

Capricorn New Moon Reflection Questions:

What am I currently committing my energy to?

Does this align with my physical, emotional and spiritual needs at this time?

Do my commitments align with my values and my ideals?

What am I truly devoted to? How can my commitments reflect that?

What do I wish to commit my energy to in the coming year?

2025 – A year of change and rebirth

It feels wise to take these quieter, slow-moving winter months to fortify our mind, body and spirit for the journey ahead. Soak up gentle and slow medicine while we can, because the upcoming year portends to be one of transformation and rebirth!

All of the outer planets will eventually be in new signs this year, as well as the lunar nodes, which is rare. This means that we will all be moving into some kind of new territory, collectively and personally. If you’ve felt things have just not been moving forward fast enough, or like you can’t shake the past, 2025 will help you feel the change you’ve been waiting for, starting in Spring. New beginnings are afoot.

It is the Year of the Snake, helping us shed old skins and grow.

2025 is also a numerology year 9, which is a year of letting go, change, gratitude, spirituality and humanitarianism.

New energies will flow in as the year progresses, and two planets move from Pisces to Aries in the spring which is a huge ‘new beginning’ energy. We may find that who we are in a year is very different from where we stand now.

I am excited for the changes the year will bring and also feeling the call to stay grounded and centered in my spiritual practice to help root me as things shift.

Oracle Reading- Themes for Contemplation

To get your reflective wheels turning for this new moon and new year, choose an oracle card from my new deck I got this Solstice!

It’s called the Old Ways Magick oracle by Naomi Cornock. Each card holds a theme for you to contemplate, with both positive and negative manifestations as well as wisdom to help you navigate. It leaves freedom for you to interpret as you feel called. Words are of the deck creator, Naomi Cornock.

Take 3 cleansing breaths. Then, choose your card. Remember that number! Scroll down to find its number and meaning…

Old Ways Magick Oracle by Naomi Cornock
  1. The World- Lughnasadh

As the Wild Goddess brings abundance wherever she treads, so as we gather in the harvest. We give thanks to her for her wonderful bounty.

Welcome: Grasp hold of bounty or boon and a world of possibilities is before you.

Warning: Disappointment, lack of reward for efforts made.

Wisdom: Be aligned with the rhythms of nature, and a world of endless bounty opens up.

2. The Cauldron

The Welsh Goddess Cerridwen is often associated with witches and magick, as well as nature, creativity, herbs, poetry, spells and knowledge. Her cauldron holds all potential and possibilities.

Welcome: A time to stoke the fire and harness the creative energy brewing in your cauldron.

Warning: Your cauldron is empty, your fire is out and energy gone.

Wisdom: Light the fire, fill your cauldron with creative magick and potential.

3. Community

Wolf can teach us to embrace community and understand it is there for us in times of need. In wolf we find courage to trust and lean on others.

Welcome: Reach out, connect with others when support is needed.

Warning: Unable to ask for community support.

Wisdom: To Wolf I ask, guide me to hold others with courage and love.

4. Sacred Journey

Find the quiet space inside you. Hear your own truths, recognise that everything is connected and you will not only heal yourself but all the world around you.

Welcome: A time for internal healing, look inwards to prepare for a new journey to begin.

Warning: Feeling unprepared and lacking the tools necessary to begin a journey.

Wisdom: Awaken to a new day, beginning of a sacred journey of healing.

5. Journey’s End

Sit under the long branches of wise old oak, soaking up quiet strength. Time to rest again and be still and grow moss. Steadfast and sustained, at one with the spirit of the land, sea and sky.

Welcome: Steadfast, stable, quiet strength.

Warning: Feeling unsupported and unstable.

Wisdom: A journey is complete, be uplifted and sustained.

6. Illuminate

Arianrhod is mother, lady of the silver wheel and queen of the citadel in the stars. She is Goddess protector, healer and wielder of justice.

Welcome: Shine a light in the shadows so hidden obstructions can not trip us up.

Warning: Be careful not to be ruled by the fear of what is hidden by the light.

Wisdom: Shine starlight on shadows which diminish their power to hinder progress.

7. Bounty- Mabon

Artio reminds us to balance the dark and the light in order to gather all the bounty the universe provides. And so it is at Mabon, we sees this reflected again, we must equally embrace the light and dark to grow and transform.

Welcome: Face our shadow fears, strong in the knowledge that our blessings are bountiful.

Warning: Unable to find balance and equilibrium between fear and love.

Wisdom: Gain a fuller and deeper understanding in order to make the most of bountiful blessings.

8. Pathways

Elen of the Ways is one of the shining ones who walks with me when I journey on the web of life, illuminating the old ways and showing me the paths to take.

Welcome: Follow the paths which wind down old ways to find what we have been looking for.

Warning: Don’t turn away from the paths lest the way is lost.

Wisdom: Elen lights the paths trod by the old ones, there we may find wisdom for today.

Did your card resonate? I hope it did! If not, perhaps it will stir some feelings or thoughts to expand on later. There is so much magick to behold in this moment. Trust your heart to lead you where you need to be. Trust in your own divine timing. All is flowing as it should.

Sending you blessings of hope, renewal, love and wellness for this New Moon and for 2025!

If you are interested in a more personalized reading for the new year, I am always booking Tarot Readings! You may also explore my other spiritual services here.

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First Harvest Wisdom + Tarot Reading!

Blessed First Harvest! This season is also celebrated as Lammas, Lughnasadh and Gwyl Awst, which each have their regional variations but are very similar. I call it First Harvest for simplicity, as it is the first of three harvest festivals. This is the harvest of grain, followed by the harvest of fruits and vegetables at Autumn Equinox and then the harvest of the hunt at Samhain.

At First Harvest, traditions celebrate the harvesting of grains such as oats, wheat and barley, which are baked into bread. It honors skills and crafts, the God Lugh, and coming together in community to share our bounty, creations and wares.

As we enter this extended harvest period, the universe calls us to begin a process of integration, learning, and gathering wisdom from our toils since the beginning of the year. We can think back to Imbolc season (approx. February 1st-March 21st) and see how our visions and goals for the year have manifested. Some themes from that time may come back into our life for review now.

For those living agricultural lifestyles, this is a busy time of much labor and hard work. Farmers, gardeners and those who work with the earth are aware of the need to process and organise the harvest into something sustainable for the future, such as separating the wheat from the chaff, drying, storing, canning, preserving, etc. Cooking and creating medicines from our harvest is another wonderful way to strengthen our bond with Mother Earth and nourish the soul.

Even if we are not gardeners or farmers, we may be processing the results of our work over the last six months and organising this into something that can be shared with others or that will sustain us in the future. We can honor the abundance of the Earth at this time through supporting local farmers at markets, eating seasonal foods, crafting something in honor of the earth, or supporting local artisans.

Our ‘harvest’ can come in many forms- tangible and intangible. While materialistic values reign in this world, this does not lessen the value and importance of our inner work. We can honor the accomplishment of any personal healing that we’ve been working on, brave steps we’ve taken, small goals we’ve achieved, any growth in our mental or emotional wellness, spiritual life, friendship, family, emotional satisfaction, inspiration, or other ways goodness has flourished in our lives.

Take some time to acknowledge all your efforts and allow gratitude to swell within your heart this season. Gratitude opens us up to even more abundance.

In an area of life where our harvest is low, we may need to be more discerning and creative with our resources. We can focus on investing limited resources where they are needed most. Where our harvest is more bountiful, we can share, give and support others. It is a time to tune into the flow of reciprocation in our lives- giving and receiving, expressing and listening, and adjusting the flow to be more sustainable and beneficial to ourselves and others.

During this year’s First Harvest season, we have a Mercury Retrograde period from August 5th-27th, which adds a twist of the unexpected and an even more reflective quality to this season, as pieces of the past come up to be processed and integrated. As we remember the past, we can see how far we’ve come and let go of what we no longer need to hold onto.

Embrace slow medicine and give yourself some extra time and space to become deeply present in mind, body, heart and soul. This is a wonderful opportunity to gain a new perspective on something you’ve been doing a certain way for a while, which may need to shift. Be open to twists and turns that will take you where you really need to be, rather than where you thought you’d be. Relax into the moment and go with the flow. Trust that all is supporting our highest good.

Now let’s get on to the Tarot Reading! (If you’d like to learn more about First Harvest and how to celebrate, please read my post: Why Lammas is Important and How to Celebrate.)

Take 3 deep breaths to clear your energy and relax. Once you are grounded and centered, ask:

“What do I need to know for this First Harvest season?”

Then, choose a card from the photo below. Scroll down to reveal each card and its meaning.

First Harvest Reading with The Gentle Tarot by Mariza Ryce Aparicio-Tovar

Remember that number! Now scroll down to find it. Descriptions are my own words except those in italics, which are of the deck’s author.

  1. The Moon- Delve into your depths to find the treasure

There’s a lot going on under the surface right now. Like a deep lake, you can see more clearly when the waters are still. Take this as an invitation to slow down and find stillness. Your heart may be telling a different story than your mind, and so you have to get off the hamster wheel to hear your inner truth. It is likely that your inner truth is spilling over into your nighttime dreams, so if you can, record your dreams and take time to process and learn from them. Harvest the wisdom that lies deep within, and separate it from any illusions you’ve ascribed to. This takes some time and effort, and a willingness to let go of the typical mundane grind. What helps you ease into an intuitive, peaceful frame of mind? Music? Movement? Meditation? Find your pathway opener. Then allow the treasures of your inner truth to bubble up into your awareness. All will fall into place once you make space for your inner wisdom.

What has your intuition been saying lately? Is there a calling that you have buried? What does your wild side have to say about the present life you live?

2. Judgement- Rise up and claim your power

This card is not so much about judgement, as it is about acceptance. Once we’ve accepted all that we are, all that we’ve been through, flaws, shadow, imperfections and all- can we feel truly empowered. This is a time of reckoning, of meeting your wholeness and an invitation to claim all of it. Be all of it. You are the fullness of your life experiences, and these have created the beautiful work of art that is you in this moment. We are always changing, shedding skins and evolving. Honour the unique and challenging path that brought you here. You are enough. You are beautiful, just as you are. Rise up from the ashes and stand in your power. The world needs your unique perspective and energy to make it a better place. What aspects of yourself do you feel ashamed of? Can you bring some tender loving care to those parts of yourself right now? Perhaps journaling this part of yourself or speaking to a loved one or therapist may be helpful at this time. This is an invitation to level-up, reclaim your power and begin anew with the wisdom of your experience.

Like this snake has freshly shed her skin, rise up to meet your higher self. Fulfill the promise you made to yourself upon arrival to this Earth, follow your true vocation.

3. The Emperor- Embrace your inner authority

You are the boss of your own life. Does it feel like you are? If not, perhaps bringing in a more supportive routine, structure or boundaries would be helpful at this time. Your energy is precious and it may be leaking out in certain aspects of your life. It is easy to get caught up in the needs of others, distractions, or scattering our energy in many directions. What this card calls for is a remembering of your inner authority, and a call to take yourself a bit more seriously. You are majestic and powerful. Does your life reflect this belief?

Re-assess your priorities. Re-connect with your personal goals. Create a schedule that honors these priorities and goals. Set boundaries with people who have too much access to your energy or who pull you off track. You may be grappling with issues with an authority figure in your life or even inside of you. There may be a perpetual habit of keeping yourself small because it feels safe. Or perhaps you’re being too hard on yourself. This can take time to heal. You can start small by reminding yourself that you are the boss of your own life. You are responsible first and foremost to yourself. You decide how to use your own energy. Claim your inner Sea Lion and show the world you’re worth it and you mean business!

4. Two of Stones- Stay grounded yet flexible!

Circumstances may have you balancing several things at once, which may be causing some overwhelm. You must stay grounded, yet flexible. If there is too much on your plate, delegate. Let go of what is unnecessary. You must find the balance that is sustainable for you. Even with adjustments, you may find you need to be a bit more flexible and adaptable than usual, but this will help you achieve what you’re aiming for and increase your skills. Mercury is retrograde, so things may come up out of left field forcing you to pivot or make changes to your plans. Don’t fret, as this experience is helping to move you in a better direction. Be light on your feet, go with the flow, and be open to doing things a different way. Be patient with the process and trust all is moving in the right direction, even if it seems a bit chaotic at times. You are strong, wise, and capable. Move with the grace and lightness of the woman in the card. You’ve got this!

When we surrender control, we gain opportunity. Embrace your courage and your strength.

5. Five of Thunder- Know when to surrender and let go

There are times in life where we must work and grind, push up against impossible odds, or fight for what we believe in. And then there are times where fighting is futile, and the more effort we put forth, the worse things get. As we grow wiser, we recognise that we must choose our battles and use our energy in ways that are most productive and life-affirming. This card in an invitation to put down your sword and let go. You’ve reached a limit. Perhaps you’ve been pushing in a direction that is not yielding results or is causing more harm than good to your well-being or that of others. Permission to pause, surrender and restore your energy. Ask for the help you need. This doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve lost, it just may mean you must find a new way to go forward. Take the time you need to rest and reflect on the situation. Process your feelings through journaling, art, physical activity or talking to a trusted friend. There is also an invitation of acceptance here- accept of the reality of this present moment, the truth of a situation, and the limitations of others or your own. It’s time to make inner peace a priority right now.

No need to climb to the tippity-top of this mountain, maybe you are just fine where you are and your path has other plans for you, another destination.

6. Root of Thunder- Be clear with your mission, and express with precision

You feel confident and ready to move forward on something. But before you jump full speed ahead, remember Mercury is going retrograde, meaning that some thoughtfulness and caution may be necessary first. You may find this time is helpful for clarifying your mission, plans, or intentions, or refine how you wish to express yourself. The details do matter, and if you slow down, you might find that the extra time spent will create a better outcome. Sometimes we run a hundred miles in the wrong direction. Keep your confidence, keep your faith, but take some time to refine your mission and execution. Get clear on your intentions and goals. Then maybe do a bit more research- do you know exactly where you’re headed? Is this the best path forward? Perhaps some extra preparation could go a long way? Is there another way to achieve what you desire? How might this land on others? Getting clear and precise with your energy will ensure you hit your mark. Patience is your ally. What is meant for you won’t pass you by.

Are you expressing and living your whole truth? Are you being compassionate and considerate to others? It is ok to take up space, but balance is essential.

7. The Fool- Open up to something new!

Nothing ventured, nothing gained! This is an invitation to trust your instincts. You may be venturing into new territory, wanting to try something for the first time or stepping out of your comfort zone. An air of innocence permeates your situation, and with it attracts the benevolence of the universe. Sure, there will be challenges ahead and perhaps some detours along the way, but you need to start somewhere, and listen to that little voice inside you coaxing you towards a new adventure. What is your heart pulling you towards? What are you feeling curious about? With Mercury Retrograde, you may wish to seek out guidance from those who’ve traveled there before or do a bit of research first, so you don’t get in over your head. Give yourself permission to experiment, make mistakes and have a beginner’s mind. Hold your vulnerability sacred. This may be the first small step towards a dream that is resurfacing from the past, or one you’ve held for some time. Be open to new experiences and ways of doing things. Wandering and meandering about can be great ways to get inspired.

Now is the time to be in the moment, to be fearless, to change paths, to be spontaneous, to trust. Uninhibited, you follow your heart’s desires. The entire universe supports your every move.

8. Temperance- Balance and moderation in all things

Sometimes life around us is divided and full of extremes. You may have felt pressured to ramp up your intensity or volume and strain to be heard and seen, or to take a big risk to get what you need. You may have overdone or over-indulged in something. Now is the time to come back into balance. Gentleness and moderation are called for. Where in your life are things out of balance? What has been taking its toll on your body, mind or spirit? Or all three?

Where you feel weakness, invite strength and confidence. Where you feel stress, invite ease and peace. Where you feel burdened, invite lightness and freedom. Your health and well-being depend on balance. What is your body asking for now? Spending time in nature can help restore harmony within, reminding you of your connection to the innate balance of the universe. Now is the time to invite balance into your diet, your exercise routine, your emotional connections, your work life and your mind.

Balance is key to having clear thoughts and clear ears for listening to your heart’s pull.

I hope your card resonated! I wish you an abundant First Harvest season and a beautiful rest of summer. If you are interested in going deeper with a more personalised Tarot Reading, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Blessings,

Serena

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Beltane Wisdom + Oracle Reading!

Welcome to the burgeoning season of Beltane (aka Bealtaine, meaning ‘Bright Fire’), the ancient Gaelic festival of fertility, protection and growth rooted in Ireland and throughout the UK.

This celebration stands opposite Samhain, the festival of the dead, where the ancestors are venerated.

At both Beltane and Samhain, the veil between this world and the Otherworld is thin, which can bring feelings of vulnerability, as change and magic swirl in the air.

At Beltane, it is said the fairies are out causing mischief, hence the many protection rituals traditionally practiced at this time, as well as leaving offerings of milk and bread out to appease them. It was also customary not to give your bounty away at Beltane, as it could signify a loss for you and a yield for others. Protection not only from fairies but from sneaky neighbors was a concern. Walking the boundaries of one’s land and performing rituals of protection at the four directions was one way of taking care of this.

It was also customary to hold celebratory bonfires for cleansing and renewal of the crops and cattle. Cattle were run between the fires, cleansed by the smoke and the bonfire ashes were strewn on the crops for blessing and protection, as well as used for divination.

These rituals are a great reminder that protection is an act of nurturing what we value and wish to grow.

May Day, celebrated in England and across Europe, holds similar celebrations and include dancing around a Maypole and decorating with flowers.

Astrologically, at Beltane the Sun is in the Earth sign Taurus, which emphasizes security, abundance, sensuality and wealth. It is a time to celebrate new growth and fertility as well as grounding into what sustains and nourishes us.

The season of Beltane may have us reflecting on questions such as:

What supports my sense of security? What is worth protecting?

What does wealth and abundance look like/feel like to me?

What nourishes my senses and helps me feel good in my body?

What do I wish to nurture and grow within myself or my life?

This season is a beautiful time to grow plants, manifest our creative visions, spend more time outside in nature, and take care of our body in tangible, loving ways. With the increasing sunlight, we are blessed with more opportunities to tap into our inner sovereignty, and creative manifesting power. The time is ripe for nurturing our passions and birthing them into the world.

Beltane Oracle Reading:

Want some insight for your Beltane season? Let’s do a little reading! We will be using the beautiful Seasons of the Witch Beltane Oracle by Lorraine Anderson & Juliet Diaz.

Take a moment to ground and center yourself. Take 3 deep relaxing breaths.

Ask the cards: What energy do I need now? You may also ask a specific question about your situation if you wish. When you feel ready, choose one of the cards below:

Remember that number! Now, scroll down to find the same number and description, which is by the deck’s authors.

  1. Goddess- Discernment: Make sure to feel it in your bones for you are what you believe.

A goddess is not available to everyone. Sure, she may receive prayers and offerings, but only a lucky few will ever have the privilege of seeing her true form. A goddess must evaluate a person’s true desires to determine whether or not they are pure of heart and will appreciate her gifts. You too, are a goddess with the ability to limit access to your energy; do not feel pressured to say ‘Yes’ to every opportunity requesting your attention. The situation you are enquiring about requires additional evaluation before you can proceed. Does this situation truly align with what you’d like to have in your life right now? Is it something you truly enjoy or are you settling out of fear or worry that you won’t get another chance like this. A goddess never settles because she knows the universe provides unlimited opportunities for her to share her gifts with the world. You too, will be blessed over an dover again. Give yourself the time and space to consider all of your options before deciding which one will be lucky enough to be a part of your life. If something slips away while you do this, trust that it wasn’t worthy of your attention to begin with.

2. Sun God- Authority: Come all, come now; expand into the skies and into the shadows below.

The Sun god is the ultimate expression of masculine energy, representing structure, authority, respect and status. This is the card of the leader and represents all of the qualities that make someone a force to be reckoned with. Your situation requires a strong hand and systemic approach. The Sun god does not allow his emotions to cloud his judgement and neither should you. Communicate with clear logic and reason, and demonstrate your mastery and intellect. Any others involved in your situation will respect you for your ability to get right down to the heart of the matter. Additionally, this card reminds you that a leader rules with a strong hand but is not a tyrant. Be mindful of arrogance and allow others their moment in the sun. The Sun god is at his best when he uses his strengths to bring out the best in others.

3. Green Man-Abundance: All that I desire comes to me easily and effortlessly. I know this to be true for I am abundant in all that I do.

Everything the green man touches turns to gold…or rather green, that is! He is the ultimate expression of abundance mindset. When the green man invites you to his earthy lair it is to infuse you with the spirit of wealth. Money will flow to you with ease, opportunities will suddenly come knocking or you will find the fulfillment of a goal is just within reach. This is also a sign that you are on the right path and what you’re doing now is working, so keep at it. This card shows that you are living life and enjoying all of the fruits of your labor. You feel more confident and sure of yourself and other people have taken notice of this and seek your advice, knowing you have much to share. The green man is also a giver and provider of wealth. Be generous with your abundance both financially and spiritually; share your knowledge and invite others to partake in your good fortune.

4. Boundaries- Self-Respect: Sewn into the parts of who you are for they are not to be crossed.

Self-love can be expressed in many different ways: sometimes it needs to manifest in a spa day with girlfriends, getting up to exercise or sleeping in later than usual, while at other times it manifests in a need to set and enforce boundaries so that no one person completely drains you of your energy. No one is allowed or even needs to take all of you; no one has the right to demand all of your time, energy or resources or any parts of who you are. It isn’t selfish to want to keep some things for yourself, as doing so is a show of self-respect and an understanding that you cannot give what you don’t have. Imagine trying to give more of your time when you don’t have enough in the day to do what’s already on your plate. Imagine spending more money when you’re already in debt or giving more of your energy to make someone else happy when you’ve been depressed for a very long time. You have pulled Boundaries because you are giving too much of yourself away without recharging your batteries. You are encouraged to say ‘NO’ more often or at the very least ‘Not right now’. Know that this is for the good of everyone in your personal orbit, that you will have so much more to give once you are in a proper place of balance. Additionally, make sure to follow through with any boundaries you’ve set, as other people will push your limits to see how much you are willing to bend to their desires. Stay committed to yourself and stand your ground.

5. Rowan- Protection: There is no need to fear, dear one; protected you are and protected you will always be.

With success also comes envy and, sad as it may be, there are those who will seek to possess what you have. This is true even if you do not feel particularly successful. There are those around you who believe you are better and smarter and have something they do not. The good news about pulling Rowan is that you are protected and safe from any forces wishing to move against you. Those who are seeking to bring you harm do not have what it takes to defeat you. Yes, you may need to defend yourself, but you have worked hard for what you have and you are more than capable of standing your ground. Push back against any adversity, knowing that you are supported by the universe in your fight. All will be well, and while it may be challenging you will emerge from this struggle unharmed. The Rowan card can also mean a new challenge is upon you if you are not currently facing any obstacles. There might be a delay in a project or an unexpected problem, or new competition may suddenly emerge.

6. Honey- Sweetness: The sweetness of you swells in the grace of your pull, oh so beautifully lethal.

You’ve probably heard the phrase ‘You catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar’, which easily applies to manifestation, magick and even healing. Your soul attracts more positivity, love and compassion than it does anger, frustration and sadness, so if you have found yourself in a period of unrest, jealousy, heartache or fear know that the path to healing yourself is through allowing sweetness to swell within your being. Rejoice in the success and good fortune of others. Celebrate the good in your life rather than focusing on what’s wrong or broken. Find compassion and forgiveness for those who have brought you pain. Each act of sweetness repairs the breaks in your heart, leading you on the journey towards restoration. Your abundance will be tenfold when you walk the path of sweetness, even if you have not felt much heartache and are currently experiencing a period of good fortune. The more you lean into kindness of heart the more increase you shall see in return to you: an increase in love, wealth, health or joy or all of the above.

7. Primal-Acceptance: There is no other way around but through the very truth that lives within you.

There is a primal force flowing through each of us. You feel it when your tummy rumbles and you feel the urge to eat, or when sexual desires overcome you while sharing a kiss with your beloved. These urges guide you to seek shelter when it rains, to cover up when you are cold and to run when you are afraid, and while these urges are seen as necessary for survival, other urges such as honoring your wild, uninhibited self and raw nature are not always welcome in modern society. However, they are equally essential to living. The Primal card is here to challenge you to let go of who you think you’re supposed to be so you can become who you really are. If you have felt confused, stagnant or lacking in motivation or have a general sense you are going nowhere it may be because you are trying to follow a path that isn’t truly meant for you. Consider whether you are living to please others, doing what is expected of you rather than what brings you joy and fulfillment. Alternatively, if you find that you are in alignment with your current goals, consider whether you have been trying to emulate others rather than expressing your true self. You may have similar goals as another person but you do not have to go about achieving them in the same ways. Trust that who you are is more than enough without having to change your core nature or adapt to fit in.

8. Indulgence- Self-worth: You are worth every desire, every dream. Demand what is yours, demand what you need.

Beltane is a natural time of indulgence when the earth offers a feast for both eyes and stomachs as spring comes alive and expands in bursts of colours and blooms. Like Mother Earth, you too will come alive when you indulge yourself. Indulgence doesn’t necessarily mean eating a box of chocolates, though sometimes this may be required. The most productive way to indulge yourself is to acknowledge your worth and needs. Demand what is yours by giving to yourself first. Do you always put others before yourself? Are you working hard to fulfill someone else’s dreams rather than your own? Do you stifle your own desires in favor of someone else’s? Your dreams, needs and desires matter just as much as anyone else’s- even more so because they are waiting patiently within your heart, waiting for you to find the time and space to bring them to life.

Did your card resonate? I hope it did.

Join our upcoming Beltane Circle!

Are you interested in celebrating Beltane with other like-minded souls? Come and join us on Zoom on Friday, May 10th at 7pm Eastern Time for our Beltane Circle: Earth Wisdom and Crystal Healing. We will discuss the themes of the season, do some grounding and relaxation practices and go on a guided meditation journey to discover a crystal ally to support you on your path. Learn more here.

Beltane blessings of growth, health and abundance to you!

XO

Serena

A Spring Oracle Reading For You!

The Spring Equinox is upon us. Also named Ostara, after the Germanic goddess of fertility and rebirth, this season of change helps us clear any baggage we’re still carrying that doesn’t serve our growth and draws us out into new pastures.

Growth is the impulse of spring. Tender sprouts of herbs and flowers begin to poke up through the soil, bravely meeting the outside world. Having established a strong root system through the dormant fall and winter, they now seek the nourishment of rain and sun to fulfill their destiny.

Like those brave new sprouts, we too may be feeling the impulse to get out, leave the familiar behind to explore more. We may seek the nourishment of new connections, new adventures and environments to foster the expression of our potential.

Sometimes we may feel fear or awkwardness as we prepare to venture out. We may overthink our next move. We may not trust our instincts, but our instincts are wise. If we tune into them, they can help us take that first step, otherwise we may never leave the safety of our cave.

What are your instincts feeling drawn to these days? Are you feeling called in a new direction? Is there a part of yourself you wish to cultivate? A spark of curiosity or passion burning in your heart? A creative project incubating that wants expression?

When it comes to trusting our instincts, I turn to the wisdom of the animal kingdom. I’ve always been an animal lover and my animistic practice regularly involves animal spirits.

For our Spring Equinox Oracle reading, I’m using the Wild Unknown Animal Spirit deck by Kim Krans. This is a regular staple in my divination practice. . Let’s see what the animals have to share with you today!

Take a moment to ground and center yourself. Take 3 deep relaxing breaths. Ask the animals: What energy do I need now? You may also ask a specific question about your situation if you wish. When you feel ready, choose one of the cards below. Then scroll down for its description (by deck author Kim Krans).

Wild Unknown Animal Spirit deck by Kim Krans
  1. RACCOON- Talented, Shadowy, In Hiding

Raccoon energy is at play within all artists, to greater or lesser degrees. At best, it indicates talent, tenacity and skillfulness with a particular instrument or creative tool. Its shadow side points to an unresolved issues around self-image and success. Sometimes using a stage name or wearing a ‘mask’ works in an artist’s favor. Other times, it limits creativity. Am I who my audience thinks I am? What if I am ready to grow into something more? Raccoon energy won’t let us off the hook until this creative ego fear is resolved.

When in balance: Generous friend, exceptional artist

When out of balance: Competitive, starving artist

To bring into balance: Making new work

2. FOX- Smart, Strong partner or mate, Wise teacher

The Fox is an enchanting creature with plenty of mystique to go around. Fox personalities are skillful in business and also make great teachers. They are quick to learn and adapt well to new situations. Fox are ideal life partners, as they commit to relationships for the long term and their natural charisma keeps things exciting. Fox energy helps us stay true to those most dear to us. When this card appears, reconnect to those you love. Foxes don’t do well when they slip away.

When in balance: Magical, ingenious teacher, monogamous

When out of balance: Sneaky, unsure of their identity

To bring into balance: Partnership, connection

3. SPIDER- Creator of prosperity through life’s work, Dharma

The Spider is an ingenious creator. Its greatest gift is weaving the thread of dharma into a vast intricate web that supports the Spider (and those around them) both financially and spiritually. It is hard work, but the Spider neither tires nor becomes impatient. This card reminds us creativity is everywhere. Be process-oriented rather than results-oriented, and soon your ‘work’ becomes like the weaving of a magical, priceless tapestry. Abundance follows.

When in balance: Appreciative, enthusiastic, prosperous

When our of balance: Discouraged, tired, forlorn

To bring into balance: Playful creativity

4. CROCODILE- Resting, Submerging, Collecting energy, Cooling off

The Crocodile reminds us to step back from the external world and turn inward. Now is not the time for decisions, action or discussion. The Crocodile’s mantra is ‘wait’. This doesn’t mean lying around hoping life’s challenges will disappear…the Crocodile is much smarter than that. It means intentionally withdrawing, gathering awareness, observing and building energy. Fill up the vital reserves so your next move comes from a place of wisdom and power.

When in balance: Wise, patient, silent powerhouse

When out of balance: Feels ‘stuck’, lashes out

To bring into balance: Rest, Makarasana pose

5. SNAKE- Guardian of un-awakened magic & Creative potential

The Snake is a symbol of our highest potential. It is said that Shakti (our creative life force) lies dormant at the base of our spine, in the form of a coiled snake. Regardless of whether this image rings true for you, it’s well worth considering the amount of ‘un-awakened’ or ‘untapped’ potential within. What would life look like if you woke it up? How can you stir it from slumber? An experienced Yoga or meditation teacher can lead the way. Make haste…the Snake card appears when there is no more time to waste.

When in balance: Prosperous, creative, charismatic

When our of balance: Starts and stops many things

To bring into balance: Kundalini Yoga, meditation

6. DRAGON-Seeing one’s most true self, Balancing the ego

The Dragon sees everything. Its essence has been with us since before our first breath and will be there at our last. It watches us navigate the external world, as well as our inner world. When Dragon energy is awakened, we are courageous, visionary, and can easily drop into witness consciousness. It is almost as if we are travelling with a great friend inside of ourselves. When we look in the mirror, deep into our eyes, we may even glimpse the ‘self’ behind the ‘self’…the one who is watching us. This is the power of the Dragon breathing transformative fire into every cell of our body. Witnessing this omnipotent energy, even for a brief moment, helps us surrender and let go. We let the Dragon guide us. We hop on its back for a ride, and as we traverse even the most difficult terrain, the Dragon’s eyes see beauty everywhere. It is said that if a yogi does not see beauty in the world, their Agni is dim. Agni is described as ‘inner fire’ or ‘sacred intelligence’. May even just the mention of the Dragon stir the embers of intelligence within you.

7. OTTER- Unobstructed joy, Playfulness, Contentment

Perhaps the most joyful creature within the Animal Spirit deck, the Otter represents absolute bliss. Otter energy is the playfulness of a child, available to us at any age. They have a giddiness and reverence for life itself, without the presence of doubt, worry or skepticism. Imagine yourself with a little more Otter energy. What would life look like? What would it take to bring you there? The Otter card begs these questions, and wants to transport us to that precious place as soon as possible. The celebration awaits.

When in balance: Full of love, needs nothing

When out of balance: Gloomy, sighs, makes silly excuses

To bring into balance: Dance party or celebration

8. BEAVER-Hard worker, Loyal, Tireless, Family first

The Beaver personality is a welcomed sight. These good-natured and dependable creatures have infinite love and enthusiasm for family, and express it by way of the earth element (providing a home, financial stability). Although a Beaver doesn’t usually initiate a project, once started they’ll work steadily for weeks, months, or years to see it through. The Beaver card appears when the task at hand requires your long-term, steady effort. It can also signify that it’s time for some Karma Yoga (selfless service).

When in balance: Happy, meaningful work

When out of balance: Feels useless, worn out

To bring into balance: Physical labor, selfless service

May you thrive and flourish as we grow through the season, and may your animal allies walk beside you every step of the way!

Blessed Spring Equinox!

xo

Serena

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An Imbolc Oracle Reading For You!

Imbolc Blessings! We have come upon the beautiful season of Imbolc, which means ‘in the belly’- Referring to lactating ewes. This season honors the process of incubation and nurturing new life- whether it is a dream for the future or creative projects. It is a time for preparation and planning, and clearing our path so we can more easily manifest our desires.

We still have more hours of darkness than light, so it is an ideal time for healing and integrating our shadow, doing our inner work and clearing debris from our past. The light is increasing, bringing hope, inspiration and new resources to help us release what weighs us down and support our personal healing.

The Goddess Brigid is venerated this time of year, lady of fertility, healing, creativity and new life. May she bring us the clarity and inspiration we need to move forward and help us to manifest our dreams!

Imbolc is also a season of divination. Traditions of weather divination continue today as we observe the behaviour of groundhogs, badgers, snakes to fortell how many weeks of winter remain.

Of course, any time is a great time for divination in my books, so let’s see what’s ahead for us this Imbolc season, shall we?

I am very excited to have just received the newly released deck- Seasons of the Witch Imbolc Oracle!

This is part of the Seasons of the Witch series by Lorraine Anderson and Juliet Diaz- they created a deck for each of the 8 seasonal festivals. I am slowly collecting them all! The artwork is beautiful, the writing impactful and I just love having a deck devoted to the energies of each season on the wheel. They are going to become a staple in each of my Hearthfire Circles from now on!

The Imbolc deck focuses on self-care and self-healing through the season, helping us to overcome obstacles on our path.

Let’s get started. Take a moment now to ground and centre yourself. Take a few deep relaxing breaths and quiet your mind. When you feel calm and present, you may wish to ask yourself ‘What do I need to know for Imbolc season?’ Open your eyes and gaze at the cards below and choose your card…

Seasons of the Witch Imbolc Oracle
by Lorraine Anderson & Juliet Diaz. Illustrated by Tijana Lukovic

Once you’ve chosen your card scroll down to find it’s meaning below. Meanings are from the deck’s authors.

  1. Amethyst– Intuition, spiritual connection, stress relief

“Go where your spirit dwells, where your sight is clear and your breath is liberated.”

You may be experiencing a very emotional or stressful time when you receive the Amethyst card: perhaps a situation has gotten out of hand and you aren’t sure how you’re going to resolve the matter. Amethyst is considered to be both a stone of spiritual connection and helpful in seeking sobriety, which suggests the answer to your question is likely a balance between spiritual and practical means. Taking time to clear your mind in meditative practice could help in seeking a solution or provide info for your next steps. It is up to you to put the guidance you have received into practice.

Connecting with cosmic intelligence has no useful power if you are unwilling or unmotivated to act upon this gift of wisdom. Trust that your intuition is correct and will guide you to the right outcome. Additionally, this card encourages you to find productive ways to manage stress and warns of the destructive habit of playing the victim. Perhaps you feel powerless against your impulses, but giving in to temptation can lead to further heartache. While it may not be easy, there is a way out of your circumstances because deep down you know what to do even if you don’t want to do it.

2. Bathing Ritual– Healing, washing away negativity or what does not belong, preparing for success

“With you, water spirit, I wash away what no longer serves me and drink in spells that call for healing.”

Receiving this card is a good omen that a new beginning is very close at hand. However, there is still a little healing to do before you can welcome a fresh phase. There are remnants of a past experience that are still negatively influencing your choices and what you’re calling into existence. You may not even be consciously aware of just how much emotional or spiritual weight you are still carrying. You may wish to consider reaching out to a professional if you feel called to help you access those areas of your life that are in need of healing so you can safely process and move forward.

Each time you confront the challenges of your past you open up a little more space, which allows you to fill your life with more joy, abundance and love. Pulling this card is a sign that now is not quite the right time to move forward with your plans, although you are not very far away from the light at the end of the tunnel. Skipping over this critical healing step could derail any future success you might have. Instead, invest in this act of self-care, washing away what no longer serves the person you are becoming.

3. Coming of Spring- Preparing for rebirth, reaching for the light, renewal, surge of hope

“Beneath my feet stir the waking, spiraling surges of warmth that tell of life ready to birth.”

Imbolc marks the beginning of the end of winter, letting you know it’s time to begin your ascent out of the darkness. This card often finds you after a challenging situation or an emotional or spiritual crisis. You may have recently experienced a great shedding of what no longer serves you through the dissolution of a relationship or a dramatic end to a chapter in your life story. You are about to enter the stage of rebuilding from the ashes and can begin to allow hope and faith to enter your spirit again. This is a positive sign if you’re looking for new love or a new job.

This card indicates there are many prospects waiting for you when you’re ready to put yourself out there again. Perhaps the most important meaning of this card is that you have a wide open lane to fill your life with anything you choose. The possibilities for where you go next are endless, and you should entertain all opportunities that come your way because any of them are likely to yield positive results.

4. Casserole- Alignment, bringing things together in a harmonious way

“Trust in the flavors that led you here, an unexpected alignment. Let it move you in ways that capture your soul.”

This card will appear when lifetime or long-term connections are being formed. Receiving it suggests the presence of a soulmate, angel investor, or business partner and potentially a new addition to your family such as a child or fur baby. It could also represent finding your life calling or settling in a place that feels like home. Much like a casserole, this new connection indicates a feeling of warmth, familiarity and comfort. You can expect this relationship to be harmonious, for there to be a feeling of belonging together like mac and cheese.

Don’t allow doubt to spoil things when this feeling appears in your life. The attachment you have or are building is very likely to be reliable and fits into the moving parts of your life with ease. If you’re inquiring about bringing things together such as a group of friends or blending a family, this card is confirmation that everyone involved will find joy with one another.

For questions related to finances, this card suggests financial stability and comfort. You may experience financial windfalls or be blessed with an opportunity to create long-term wealth.

5. Garlic- Defensiveness, protection, managing negativity

“It is unwise to walk beyond the boundaries you have yet to expand on. Protection among all else.”

Pulling the Garlic card suggests there are people who are working against you, or perhaps that is your perception of the situation. There is likely resistance from others but it may not be as bad as you think. Whatever you are facing, receiving this card means you are more than capable of defending yourself against any attack you may face. You have what you have because of your hard work and dedication, and there is no one in your current orbit who has the power to take that from you. Any negativity you are experiencing is the result of someone whose own emotional traumas are being triggered, which is all about them, and not you. It may be unfortunate for them, but you are not required to entertain such behavior when it is hurtful to you.

Garlic Protection Spell:

This spell was learned by the author by an elderly Cuban woman. Carry it with you for a trip or flight or party or wherever you feel you want a little extra protection. You will need 1 garlic clove; 1/2 tsp of honey; a pinch of salt and aluminum foil.

Peel the garlic clove and make a slit in it that’s slightly smaller than its length. Cover the slit with honey and salt, making sure the salt sticks to the honey. While you are preparing this, focus your mind on your intention of protection. Wrap the clove in a small piece of foil so it won’t dirty your clothes or whatever you decide to carry it in.

6. Black Bear- Transcendence, the battle is easily won, personal power

“Your existence is the resistance, All you must do is accept the power awaiting your arrival.”

Bears are considered to be the top of the animal food chain, having no real threat from predators. Pulling the Black Bear card means you have done the work needed to find your authentic self. You have transcended to a higher level of consciousness but with the light comes shadow, and those who still dwell in the darkness will seek to take the light you’re now embodying.

This is not a bad card to receive, as it suggests you’re operating from a healthy level of self awareness. Protect yourself from any threat but remember to have compassion for those who have not yet battles their personal demons. Low-vibrational people are operating from a place of fear, and the lower the vibration the bigger their effort will be to lower yours. However, for you it’s no real fight at all and you are more than capable of handling anything that’s coming your way as long as you stand in your power. Authentic, mindful people stay at the top of the food chain.

7. Greenhouse- Sowing seeds, preparation, planning, setting things in motion, clear path

“May it be clear the intentions I sow in preparation for the path ahead.”

Greenhouse is one of the most positive cards in the deck, and pulling it means you are about to welcome a joyous new start. Unlike with other cards in the deck this fresh beginning is something you’ve chosen for yourself and are excited about. You have all of the potential to create something momentous; however, this card also warns you not to expect miracles. There will still be a lot of hard work, dedication and even some failures along the way, but the overall result will likely be very successful.

If you’re feeling stagnant or are in a challenging situation, this card encourages you to begin planting the seeds and preparing for a new idea or opportunity to drop into your lap. Dress for the job you wish to have, start researching things you’d do if you had the money or time or get together a plan of action for a goal even if you don’t have all the resources to make it happen. Receiving this card means the pathway is clear and you are covered by the safety of your cosmic greenhouse. You don’t need to wait until external conditions are right to move forward with your plans.

Did your message resonate? Let me know!

If you’d like to celebrate Imbolc in a warm and friendly space, please join us for our Online Imbolc Circle: Tending the Inner Hearth on Friday, Feb 9th, 2024 7pm-9pm EST! We will be discussing the themes of the season, awaken our inner hearth of inspiration, creativity and renewal with a guided journey and candle ritual.

I’d love to see you there!

Imbolc Blessings,

xo

Serena

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What if the Cards Don’t Resonate? Tips for Reading for Yourself

Do you pull cards for yourself and sometimes find they just don’t resonate? Or maybe the entire reading has you stumped?

This happens to us all, I think, and there are different reasons why and different ways to deal with it. Often it can be one of two things, either we reject the message or we don’t see how it applies to our situation.

I feel it is important to distinguish between rejecting a card because we don’t like its message, vs not resonating or feeling disconnected from the card’s meaning or relevance.

Let’s explore reasons and solutions that address both situations…

  1. Preparation & Ritual

First thing’s first- Energetic hygiene! Messages can get muddled when the cards have been used by too many people or too often without cleansing. If the deck is new, it may need more time getting used to your energy and establishing itself. We build a relationship with our cards. If we treat them well, they treat us well back.

Whenever I get a new deck, I take my time to cleanse and consecrate each and every card through smoke (air) and over a candle (fire). Then, I spritz or splash the deck with water and then let it sit with a rock or crystal on it. I ask that the powers of the elements cleanse and bless the deck. Then, I sleep with the deck under my pillow for a week or so beside me to attune to my energies. I get to know it by pulling a card each day and noticing how it plays out in my life. I also like to shuffle through it, looking at each card one by one. Over time, we develop a relationship, and the deck may eventually be used just for me or also with clients.

I cleanse the decks I use with clients before and after each reading. In my personal decks, I sometimes notice after a while, it may give muddled messages or feel energetically heavy or sticky when I shuffle. This tells me it is time to cleanse it again! I may use smoke, water, fire, earth, or all four, like above. I also like to gently bump it on the table a few times to release stuck energy.

Some folks use their hands to channel energy or Reiki to the deck and/or visualization to cleanse it. There are many ways to cleanse a deck, so try a few different ways until you land on what feels right for you!

Having a little grounding and centering ritual is also helpful before a reading to get us into the right mindset. A grounding and centering practice can be as simple as taking a few deep breaths, dropping into our body, placing our hands on our heart, and going into a receptive state. You may wish to invoke your guides, ancestors or other helpers to bring you clarity.

I like to do the above as well as create sacred space for my reading by lighting a candle or have certain crystals around me, and laying out the cards on a special cloth.

It is also important to protect your cards when not in use. I usually wrap mine in a cloth and keep a small crystal on top, or they go in a box with a crystal.

Even if we have a thorough cleansing and grounding ritual, sometimes a deck just doesn’t mesh well us. It could be the imagery, the meanings, or it just doesn’t vibrate on the frequency we need at that time. Find a deck you feel good about.  But, give a new deck some time before deciding!

2. Interpretation Skills

Me in vintage Tarot mode, photo by Stacie Noel

Sometimes we need to deepen or broaden our interpretation skills. It is important that we don’t rely 100% on intuition when reading cards for ourselves, because we can never really be objective about our own situation. Knowledge is important for balance.

When reading for yourself, even if you ‘know’ all the meanings of the cards by heart, it can be helpful to consult a guidebook or reference to remind you of all the meanings the cards holds, or really take your time with each card to consider all possible meanings. It is easy to get locked in our singular perspective when reading alone, and others’ interpretations can help awaken a broader perspective.

No matter how long you’ve been reading cards, there is always more to learn, that is why Tarot is so fun! It really is a lifelong journey. It is easy to overlook certain symbols or fail to see connections between the symbols and aspects of our lives, because we default to what we think we already know about the card’s meaning.

Keep learning and exploring new ways of interpreting the cards. Each reading is a chance to deepen your knowledge and understanding!

3. Asking the Right Questions

Inquisitive Minnie

Sometimes, the reading doesn’t resonate because the question we asked was not the thing we really want to know about. For example, we may ask about our career, but deep down what we really want to know about is our relationship, but we aren’t comfortable bringing our true feelings into awareness.

The cards tend to pick up on our strongest feelings, rather than our words or mental intentions, so the reading may reflect what we feel most strongly about in the moment, rather than what we are mentally trying to focus on.

This is why it is helpful to ground and centre before we throw the cards, so we are connected to our inner truth and feelings,(without being in a super activated emotional state),and therefore able to resonate with the messages of the cards.

Crafting the right questions to obtain the answers we are looking for also takes some experimentation. Some questions are too vague for the answer we want, or too specific for the perspective we need.

For example, if we ask a question like ‘should I take this job?’ and then throw a spread, we may or may not get a clear answer. We can perhaps try just pulling a single card for a yes or no answer (assuming we have a yes or no associated with each card), or we could pull a couple of cards to get a sense of a positive or negative experience.

But, sometimes a yes or no answer is not ideal. We may not be in the right stage of a decision process to take in a direct answer and need time to consider our feelings about different possibilities. We could instead ask: ‘what will the outcome be if I take this job?’ and pull a card or two to shed some light. Alternatively, we could ask a broader question such as ‘What do I need to be aware of with this job opportunity?’ and pull a card or two on that.

Sometimes we need to take a step back a bit further and look at the whole situation for greater clarity. In this case, asking ‘Please shed light on my job situation right now’ and throwing a full spread can be most helpful.

Often, I find a specific question looking for a specific answer is better answered by pulling fewer cards, and an overview of different energies at play in a situation is better answered with a full spread (like the Celtic Cross).

Because I use the Tarot predominantly for healing and self-awareness, I am a fan of the broader perspective a spread gives, because it helps us see more of the energies at play within us. However, I also like to ask specific questions from time to time or add those on top of a bigger spread.

4. Emotional Charge & Perspective

Balmy Beach, Toronto

When we have a burning question, there is often a strong emotional charge around the situation. We want something very badly, we hope or we fear until we’ve lost touch with our centre completely.  This can easily cloud our perspective or create tunnel vision which prevents us from seeing the situation in a new way. Often, this is why we come to the Tarot in the first place, because we need perspective- and the Tarot is a great tool to bring this to us!

However, especially when reading for ourselves, sometimes we can’t quite wrap our head around the meaning of a certain card or reading because we aren’t in a state of being able to see it in a new way yet! We are too emotional about the situation.

In this case, we need to shift our energy into a state of more openness and curiosity in order to gain perspective.

One way to handle this is to simply wait until a different time to do the reading, when you are less emotionally charged and more able to be curious. You can try going for a walk or venting to a friend and then come back to it, or sleep on it first.

You may wish to do a grounding and centering ritual before beginning the reading. This can help clear your energy and open your mind.

It can also be helpful to get an outside perspective from a Tarot reader or friend who can interpret the cards. They can help frame the meaning of the cards in a way that helps you understand and accept it, or they can ask you further questions to deepen your self-awareness and relate this to the card. Having an empathetic listener can help open the doors of your mind and heart just a little so that the message can come through.

5. Time

Sometimes all we need is a bit of time to let things percolate, integrate and digest. This is why it is a great idea to take a photo of the spread and write notes about it- so that you can return to it later. Sometimes, the ‘aha’ moment is simply delayed.

Do your best to take in the cards, be open to their messages, even if they’re confusing or unclear. Then go do something else for a while, rather than obsessively seeking an answer right away. Often, the more we push, the narrower our thinking becomes, and this may not be the ideal mindset to receive the message.

Let the reading go for a bit and immerse yourself in another activity or let your mind wander. Maybe even wait a day or two and then come back to your notes and photo. You might find it all comes together with a bit of time. I’ve had readings that took a week or two to really sink in.

6. Self-Awareness, Rejection & Shadow

The Goddess Oracle by Marashinsky & Janto

Get curious about any negative reaction you have to a card- what feelings come up when you see it? Before you slam the card back into the deck, take note of it and write down your feelings about it.

If we are rejecting a card or the message of a reading, this can mean it holds truth that we don’t want to face.

Often, when we react negatively to a card, it is because we have a hope or idea of what the message of the reading ‘should’ be and the card doesn’t fit our idea. The card may also trigger some deep emotions we’d rather not deal with. This can be an invitation to shift our perspective or delve into our feelings.

Could it be depicting a shadow part of us? A part of us that we push away, deny, hide or dislike? Is it illustrating an energy showing up in our lives through other people? Our shadow is often a combination or both positive and negative attributes- anything we pretend isn’t a part of us or needs to be integrated.

I believe when we come to the cards for healing and clarity, what comes up is usually something we are meant to see, and ready to see, whether it is comfortable or not.

Sometimes when I get a card I don’t like, I shuffle again. But often, the same card comes up again, so I know I have to pay attention, no matter how much I dislike it!

Journal your reactions to the card you reject. Express what you hate about it, or why it ‘makes no sense’. This process can shed light on what it really means to you and how/if it relates to your situation on a deeper level than you were first willing to accept. This is another reason why it is helpful to wait until we are in a less active emotional state and a more open, curious state to do a reading.

Shadow work is something the Tarot can be helpful for, but you may wish to get further support, such as a reader, a healer or a therapist that specialises in shadow work to delve deep.

7.  It’s ok to Just Start Over

The Gentle Tarot

Sometimes we just throw a dud reading. It can be a combination of the above issues- perhaps the deck needed to be cleansed, we weren’t tuning in to ourselves while shuffling, or it just isn’t the right time. It is ok to let it go and start all over again! As long as you don’t repeatedly throw a new spread until you get one you like, I feel it is ok to know when it’s a lost cause and best to try again.

Over the years, Tarot has become very popular and you may find a hundred different pieces of advice for every issue. I don’t believe there is a right or wrong way, just different things that work for different people.

I hope that these tips were helpful, and if you are looking for a compassionate, healing-centered reading for clarity and inner peace, feel free to book a Tarot Reading with me!

xo

Serena

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A Winter Solstice Reading for You!

Happy Winter Solstice!

I thought I’d share with you this beautiful deck I got last year called ‘Wisdom of the Cailleach Oracle’ by Jane Brideson. The Cailleach, also known as An Cailleach, An Cailleach Beara or Beira, is the Irish and Scottish Hag of Winter and Old Woman who shapes the land. She is responsible for storms and nasty weather, making mountains and preventing thaw. Her name means ‘veiled one’. She is associated with the cold, barren months of the year, while the goddess Brigid or Brìghde, is associated with the fertile, warm months.

Cailleach’s energy is strong this time of year, so let’s take heed of her wisdom.

This deck beautifully illustrates facets of the wise old Cailleach and I hope it inspires you as much as it inspires me!

Below is a Solstice Star of 5 cards. Choose one card as your message of inspiration for this season…

You may wish to take a moment to ground and centre yourself first, and ask “What do I need to embrace this season?” or ask a question. Then Choose.

Once you’ve chosen a card, remember its number and then see below for the description! Descriptions in italic are from the author, Jane Brideson, followed by words and reflection questions by me.

Below are the descriptions of each card…

  1. Shapes the Land
Wisdom of the Cailleach Oracle by Jane Brideson

“I am

the force of nature

raw, raging, unrestrained.

I am clarity, daring and grace,

bleak truth that sweeps away pretence.

Dissolving convention.

I leave you naked in your skin.

I am

first snowfall of the waning year,

white strands amongst the grey,

stark, slumbering nature.

Your surrender to winter and wisdom’s embrace.”

Feel the raw potentiality of this moment. The creative spirit never ends, it simply transforms. We all carry the power of the Cailleach, the ability to create and transform ourselves and the world around us. What primal urges within you are awakening? In what ways do you shape and impact the world around you? Open to new ways of using your creative energy- destroy the old and outworn, create new shapes of beauty in the world. If your creativity seems dormant, it may simply be in a stage of incubating new works. Trust the process. Your creative spirit is in motion.

2. The Veiled One:

Wisdom of the Cailleach Oracle by Jane Brideson

“I am

ancient mountains,

velvet valleys,

black blanket of fertile sod.

My wrinkled hands,

smoothed sediments,

heaped cairns,

hollowed out the hills.

Once my kiss made kings.

Later, aged face reviled,

body deemed intolerable,

I was hidden beneath the veil,

a mystery to unfold in time.

Now I stand before you.

Ancient, ageless.

Your truth,

Your fear,

Your shadow,

Your final liberation

As you lift the veil.”

Deep power lies within the shadows, waiting to be recognised and brought into the light. Where there is pain there is power. What experiences have left you with pain waiting to be fully healed? What wisdom from the experience is ready to be fully uncovered? What parts of yourself have been relegated to the shadows that now wish to be seen? Begin the process of retrieving the gifts and power you lost in the past and integrate the dark beauty of your shadow. It is no longer time to hide or gloss over it, it is time to face the truth and empower yourself. You are ready to up-level yourself spiritually and claim your wholeness.

3. Ancestors:

Wisdom of the Cailleach Oracle by Jane Brideson

Origins-Forgiveness-The Past

  • Your roots, your ancestors, your heritage.
  • Lessons learned, time to move on.
  • Understanding and forgiving your former self.
  • Time to leave behind your past, old patterns & beliefs.

You do not exist in a vacuum. You are part of a long line, a tree with roots deep upon this planet. Our ancestors made it possible for us to be here. They also might have left us some work to do. Do you acknowledge the ancestors, the gifts and wounds of your lineage? Sometimes we may carry things with us that may not be fully ours to carry. What can you release and let go of? What gifts do you carry that may have been passed down to you? How can you share those gifts with others and be a good ancestor for the coming generations? Your ancestors are cheering you on.

4. Sun:

Wisdom of the Cailleach Oracle by Jane Brideson

Joy-Energy-Prosperity

  • Happiness, warmth and good health
  • Good luck, success, a positive outcome
  • A time to enjoy sunlit days, a holiday.
  • Time for pleasure, fun and play.

The Winter Solstice celebrates the rebirth of the light. What lights you up inside? If things have been feeling heavy, dark or burdensome, this is a promise of your load lightening soon. Can you make a bit more time to play, take a vacation or treat yourself? Be optimistic, as there will be a cause for celebration and pleasure in the near future! Connect with the activities and people that make you laugh, that lighten your outlook and encourage fun! Invite the light in. Then shine it out for others to bask in!

5. Tribe:

Wisdom of the Cailleach Oracle by Jane Brideson

Community- Celebration-Support

  • Family, chosen family or community.
  • The mutual support, comfort and help of friends.
  • Undertaking responsibility and assisting others.
  • Time to celebrate and share with others.

The past couple of years have been an invitation to re-assess our communities, family and friends and how they align with our own values. We may have left a community behind, felt alone or like an outsider much of the time. We may have had to take some time by ourselves to understand who we truly are. The time has come now to gently open to and co-create supportive, nourishing community for yourself. Is there a hobby group, club or event you’d like to attend? Check it out! Which of your friends or loved ones have stuck with you through the tough times? Nourish that relationship. Be discerning, but be open to attracting others of like-mind, like-heart and like-soul.

I hope you continue to receive the inspiration, healing and grounding you need this season. May the Crone/Elder/Hag of Winter bless and protect you this Solstice and through the season.

If you are looking for a more detailed, personal reading, I am now booking Tarot Readings for January 2023! I would love to connect with you.

xo

Serena

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Dancing with our Shadow in Relationships

At the Fall Equinox, the sun enters Libra- the sign of relationships and balance. This season initiates our journey of descent into our own personal underworld, where we meet with our shadow self.

There is no better way to meet our shadow than in the world of relationships. People we connect with in life, whether friends, co-workers or intimate partners mirror to us aspects of ourselves. Some of these qualities we are delighted to encounter, while others not so much.

Generally, the qualities we despise or are irritated by in others point to aspects of ourselves that we’ve repressed, rejected or denied, which then become part of our shadow. The shadow self follows us around, asking for attention and acceptance. If we do not heed its call for attention, it may actually start to drive us through life unconsciously. When this happens, we may end up in situations we regret, living life in a way that creates more pain and anguish for ourselves (and others) rather than healing and opportunity.

The shadow requires that we meet it. Acknowledge it. Embrace it. Dance with it from time to time. They are our forever companion, after all. We can’t simply get rid of our shadow. Denying its existence only makes life harder. Over time, the shadow can become our friend and ally.

The Goddess Oracle by Marashinsky & Janto

We all carry human traits that we don’t like. If we like to think of ourselves as a selfless, hardworking person, we may relegate our inner self-centered, lazy tendencies to the shadow. When we do this, we encounter these qualities in others until we accept them within ourselves. If we accept our own human tendency to be selfish or lazy, we are less likely to be bothered by these traits in others.

We may repress positive traits as well, which can become part of our shadow. For example, we may deny or repress our confidence, out of fear of not acting humble enough. Then we may find we are attracted to confidence or repulsed by it in others we meet.

If you are single and find you are constantly attracting people with certain traits into your life and they keep triggering the same issues within you, there is likely some shadow work to do.

If you are partnered and get stuck in loops of the same old arguments, or collect resentments over time for the same behaviours, there is shadow work to do.

Basically, if you are human living in the world with other humans, there is shadow work to do!

Relationships as a path of Spiritual Growth

If you are interested in your own spiritual growth, I highly recommend being in an intimate relationship. All relationships can push our buttons, but the closer they are, the deeper the healing can go.

I have been with the same partner for over 19 years now, and I feel my marriage and being a mom has probably brought me the most spiritual growth than anything else in my life. A day doesn’t go by when I am not encountering my shadow. Every day I am asked to look in the mirror and tolerate/accept/dance with what I see.

The snarky sarcastic rebuttals my teen throws my way often cause a reaction in me. Then a split second later, I see my own reflection in her. She’s so much like me. I was a snarky sarcastic teen and still am now! I must take my own medicine and remember that this is how she asserts her independence. This is one of the ways I still do, too.

My husband’s frustrating absentmindedness is another mirror. When he has forgotten yet another important detail or isn’t paying attention to the present moment, I curse his blissfully unaware existence. I feel burdened taking on the responsibility for all the mundane details. Then, I realise how much of a daydreamer I can be too. I can easily avoid the world in front of me, and often prefer to. Maybe I could let myself daydream a bit more.

I am not a Jungian expert nor have any sort of formal training in shadow work, so obviously I would first suggest you see a pro for doing deeper shadow work, especially when it is rooted in past trauma.

Alongside seeing a therapist, or when that option isn’t available to us, we can use Tarot and journaling to help shine a light on our darkness. These self-healing tools can help us become better people, cultivate stronger relationships and create a happier life.

Journaling Questions

First, here are some reflection questions you can journal with to get a sense of what aspect(s) of yourself you repress, deny or relegate to the shadows. These traits can actually be positive or negative.

  • What positive traits do the folks I am attracted to usually carry?

Positive traits we desire in others can also be parts of our shadow. We can access these parts of us if we choose. Often a partner will bring these traits out in us as well.

  • What traits about the people I get into relationships with do I find hard to deal with or unacceptable?

These are traits that we may be denying or repressing within us that unconsciously take the driver’s seat sometimes- especially when we are upset or stressed.

  • Who do I sooo NOT want to be like? Why?

This person may be a more extreme example of your own shadow. Yes, its scary to fathom this. But, be open to there being something there to work with.

  • How do I behave towards others when I get really stressed or triggered?

Often, we express our shadow when we are in a highly charged state.

  • What’s the positive side of these shadow qualities?

For example, selfishness transmuted into its positive form can be self-love, self-confidence or self-respect. Are these traits you could cultivate?

Tarot Spread for Relationship Shadow Work

Here is an example of a Tarot spread you can use with your own deck to support you in navigating a current relationship. You can do this spread for an intimate partnership or for friends/coworkers/roommates or anyone who is pushing your buttons!

Shadow in Relationships Spread by me using the Gentle Tarot.

Card #1: Self- Aspect of self we need to be aware of in current situation. 

This card shows the part of ourselves that is active within the current situation. How does this card make you feel?

Card #2: Shadow- Aspect of self we project onto the other and need to accept within ourselves.

This is an important card. It shows the issue we are grappling with, the energy we are avoiding within ourselves or what is blocking us from relating with ease. How does this card make you feel? How does it show up in your relationship? Is it something you feel ready to accept and integrate within yourself?

Card #3: Support- Cultivate this to support Card #1.

This is an energy within you that you can access now to support the current situation or your role within it. How would taking a step in this direction affect how you feel?

Card #4: Integration- Energy to help us dance with and integrate our shadow.

Cultivate this energy to help you deal with card #2. It is the key to integrating its energy within you and your life. How would it feel to bring more of this energy into your situation? How would it change your relationship with yourself? How could it change your relationship?

For me, my spiritual path is not about always trying to attain a lofty ideal of being or behaviour. It’s about wholeness, acceptance and finding peace with being human. Dancing with our shadow is an integral part of accepting the harsher realities of earthly life. Even if our spirit is made of complete love and compassion, we are living a human life. On earth, the laws of spirit don’t always translate.

As the ever-useful quote by Pierre Teilhard de Chardin states:

“We are not human beings having a spiritual experience, but spiritual beings having a human experience.”  

Are you interested in shadow work? How does your shadow show up in relationships? Do you consciously seek to meet and accept it?

May Libra season bless you with self-love and understanding, grace and flow.

Xo

Serena

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Summer Solstice Reading: Step Into the Light

As we arrive at the year’s peak of light, the Earth Mother blooms and pours her cup of abundance our way. The sun radiates its healing light upon us too, illuminating the dark recesses of our psyche and heart, urging us to release our burdens and receive the gift of love available to us now.

We are asked at this time of year to remember how to lighten up, to listen to our childlike wisdom and let ourselves receive the nourishment the Earth Mother offers us.

It’s been a heavy past two years, which can perhaps make some of us a bit slow or unsure of how to embrace lightness at this time. It’s ok to not feel celebratory, super social or ready to shine just yet. On the solstice, the sun moves into the sign of Cancer. This sentimental water sign urges us to embrace all the feels, to be gentle with ourselves and practice receptivity. We can allow ourselves to receive the nourishment we need now, in order to shine our light once Leo season comes.

Generally, this part of summer lends itself to emotional cleansing and renewal, caring for ourselves and loved ones, exploring our past, family, lineage and creating a sense of being at home within ourselves and around us.

Once the sun moves into Leo, later in July, we will be invigorated with some extra bold, confident fire energy to help us shine. Even though we have more hours of sunlight now, Leo season will likely turn up the heat and make us feel more expressive in a few weeks. We can use this time to explore what aspects of ourselves wish to come into the light and remove blocks to their expression.

As we enter this potent time, you may find that anything that was hidden or unclear becomes illuminated. This is a wonderful time to getting to the truth of things. To uncover your own truth, to align with your authenticity, to see in others that which you maybe turned away from or chose not to see before. Illumination can be challenging. But it is only when we are willing to see, that we can move forward in alignment with who we truly are.

Is there an aspect of yourself that you normally keep hidden that is wanting to step out into the light, even just a little bit? Are you dealing with some fears or past traumas that are blocking you from fully being who you are? Do you often feel insecure around expressing yourself? Then you may wish to check out my summer solstice reading below- Step Into the Light.

This is a short reading to help illuminate an aspect of you that is wanting to shine or come out into expression. You can use this spread with your own chosen deck, or see if my reading for you below resonates!

Here is my summer solstice ‘Step into the Light’ reading for you below, dear reader! I used the Gentle Tarot by Mariza Ryce Aparicio-Tovar. The interpretations are by me with some quotes by the author.

Here is the spread:

Step Into the Light Spread with The Gentle Tarot
  1. Self: This position describes an aspect of you that wishes to come into greater expression.
  2. Inner Truth: This position describes something that influences this part of you and is only known to you, and not necessarily to others. It relates to the Self card.
  3. Outer Truth: This position describes the expression of the Self card. It shows what influence hinders its expression, or how this part of yourself is coming out.
  4. Light: This position is the gateway towards shining your light. It gives advice on how to bring the Self card into expression in a healthy way.  It relates to the Outer Truth card, and gives insight on how to shift into healthy expression.
Self: Four of Wands

Self- Four of Wands: You have been working hard on your vision and set the foundation- good work! At this point in your journey, you deserve to relax and enjoy life a bit more! This card is about celebration, harmony and reveling in the beauty within and all around you. It is also associated with coming home to oneself and being with family and friends. Yes, this is a very summer solstice-y card, and invites you to shed the weight of the last 2 years and acknowledge all you’ve been through. You are ready to let go of striving and to get into a more relaxed mode of being. Take your shoes off, untuck your shirt and let your hair down. Be confident in the foundation you’ve laid. Allow yourself to coast, to keep things a little lighter, simpler and more enjoyable from now on. No need to be anything but your comfy, satisfied self.

“Spread your wings. There is celebration and excitement in the air! Break free of whatever is holding you back and reclaim your resolve. The four of wands invites you to take a moment to enjoy the satisfaction of new feats in your life.”

Inner Truth: The Hierophant

Inner Truth- The Hierophant: Spiritual wisdom, your spiritual practice and learning are very important to you. You may keep this part of yourself hidden sometimes, for fear of perhaps not being knowledgeable or acceptable enough in the eyes of society or because you don’t feel you can be an authority on spiritual matters. You may feel called to explore the spiritual practices of your lineage, or ancient knowledge that you keep privately to yourself. Your spiritual life nourishes and supports you and will help you to relax into your authentic self. Letting go of striving can become a spiritual practice for you. Giving yourself some space to rest and receive can support your spiritual studies. Honour your ancestors, elders or teachers that have brought you to where you are today.  Your inner wisdom and spirituality strengthens you and wants to come out.

“Seabirds are ancient. The wisdom in their movement and in their eyes feels older than the millennia countable on our fingertips. Only until we honor our ancients, can we truly know who we are and live a life we love.”

Outer Truth: Nine of Thunder

Outer Truth- Nine of Thunder: The full moon depicted in this card is much like the summer solstice in that is illuminates the hidden and brings things to light. You may be feeling a bit overwhelmed at this time- your mind may be racing, you may feel anxious or having trouble sleeping. This is because a lot is coming up at once and demanding to be released or expressed. Events from the past and fears of the future may be affecting your ability to relax and express yourself. Take your time and calm your mind. You may be thinking the worst, making things appear worse than they truly are. You don’t have to express everything you wish to right now- you can take some time to slow down and process. Write down your thoughts and feelings. Sort through what is true and what is simply fear. Write down all the ‘what ifs’ and then with a clear mind, release the ones that hold no real weight (which could be all of them!).

“There are things that we may never fully understand and ultimately we need to accept what is and reconcile things with ourselves. Feel the feelings and cry the tears, but come back home when you are done. Those hard feelings need tending to.”

Light: Flower of Thunder

Light- Flower of Thunder: Another thunder card! This card shows us the way forward towards healthy expression of the Self and reminds us that the way through the overwhelm and anxiety is through strength, objective clarity and sound judgement. The beautiful eagle encourages us to take an objective point of view- pull back from the details for a moment and see the big picture. She balances her mind and heart and expresses herself with clarity and authority. Your fears of expressing yourself must be evaluated rationally and compassionately- are they based in fact? Do you need to perhaps set some boundaries with others in order to be yourself fully and enjoy life? This card says to express yourself truthfully and unapologetically. Remain true to who you are and express the wisdom and depth you’ve been developing behind the scenes. Others will take you seriously if you do. Carry yourself with conviction and others will respect you.

“She embodies truth, honesty and surviving through life’s heartaches and headaches. The energy of this card in one of bold, clear communication coming from an experienced, loving, powerful heart.”

Conclusion:

You are fully supported by the ancient ones, the ancestors and the Earth Mother. Relax and let your hair down. Honour the tender feelings that hold you back from simply enjoying life and let them go. It is safe for you to simply be, to honour how far you’ve come at this point. Relinquish the need to be perfect or let your fears and anxieties prevent you from expressing your truth. Your spiritual wisdom flows through you. Express yourself with conviction and authority. You are enough. Simply being is enough.

Summer Solstice blessings my friends!

I look forward to seeing you at our Summer Solstice Circle, for a reading or 1 on 1 session soon!

Xo

Serena

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Wellness Tips for Eclipse Season + Reading!

What is ‘Eclipse Season’?

What we call ‘Eclipse Season’ is the period of time that the solar and lunar eclipses happen. Eclipses happen in pairs, over a period of a lunar cycle, but the effects last for months and beyond. There are at least 4 eclipses per year, and the signs they happen in change every 18 months or so.

Eclipses are like super-charged new moons and full moons. They are more intensely emotional and function as a gateway of spiritual, mental, and emotional growth, often coinciding with big endings and beginnings in our lives.

Everyone will experience each eclipse differently, depending on how it hits your astrological chart. Some folks will have major life-changing events happen, and others will feel a more internal, subtle shift. From an astrological perspective, whatever changes happen during an eclipse can leave their mark for months or even years to come.

An analogy I heard and resonated with about eclipse season is that it’s like standing on one side of a large chasm and crossing a rickety swing bridge over to the other side. As you walk, the bridge slowly disintegrates behind you and once you are on the other side, you can never go back to where you were before. The changes are on some level, permanent.

The other astrological perspective is that during eclipses, whatever happens was meant to happen. The changes are not initiated by our conscious actions and intentions, but by our higher self, the divine, fate or whatever you wish to call the larger forces that be. We are not in control of the situation. All we have control over is how we respond, process and navigate on an internal level. It is for this reason that I recommend focusing on wellness in mind, body, heart and spirit during this time, leaving space for integrating, healing and processing.

Staying Well During Eclipse Season

During eclipse season, time can feel like its moving a lot faster or slower than usual. A week can feel like a month has gone by because we are processing so much more energy on all levels. Our emotions are usually much closer to the surface, and more intense. The gravitational pull of an eclipse can cause higher tides and tidal waves in the ocean, so imagine that same forces affecting our bodies!

You may also experience restless nights, trouble sleeping and more vivid dreams than usual. I find taking melatonin or valerian root helpful for sleep during eclipses as well as all full moons.

You may feel more easily exhausted, burned out, or a sense of rootlessness and anxiety, as it can kind of feel like the ground is shaking under our feet. You might feel a bit ‘buzzed’ or like the energy around you is crackling.

Those of us living in the big city will often notice more chaos around us- accidents, violence, emergency vehicles, increased noise, etc. If you are an empath, highly sensitive person or introvert, you may feel overwhelmed by all the energy around you. It is important to practice grounding and protection during this time.

Many find grief an emotion that comes up with eclipses, since there is often some kind of ending taking place within us or around us.

Staying well during eclipse season requires us to give ourselves a bit more space and flexibility in our schedule in order to process. Take some time to meditate, reflect on your life, or journal before bed. Go to bed earlier than normal. Eat high-nutrient foods and don’t skip your vitamins or supplements. Exercise can help you stay grounded as well as process the excess energy flowing through you. Other grounding activities such as cuddling with pets, gardening, plant care, spending time in nature or body care, such as a massage or movement is very helpful.

If you are feeling overwhelmed as a sensitive, intuitive or empath, I recommend you read about my suggestions for energetic cleansing here, and my suggestions for energetic protection here.

Should we do spells or rituals during an eclipse?

I think it really depends on a lot of factors, such as what type of ritual you are planning, the energies of that particular eclipse and how it affects you personally, whether it involves other people and what traditions you practice. So, I can’t give a definitive answer. I come from an astrological perspective, and much of the caution around spellwork at eclipses stems from Astrology, a very ancient practice that is still thriving to this day. It is not some new idea born from Witch Tok, despite what some memes may say. Over millennia, astrologers observed that eclipses bring chaotic energies and irreversible changes. Caution with magick as well as mind-altering substances is sensible advice in my opinion, as many folks are feeling more emotional and off-balance than usual, which can have adverse effects that last.

I personally don’t do any spells or manifestation around eclipses, but I still do my daily grounding, prayer, cleansing and protection rituals. I also find it a great time to do divination, self-inquiry, journaling, reflection and take some extra time to check-in with myself and my life.

Eclipses are a potent healing gateway, a time to pay attention to what is emerging for you and open to the greater forces that be. It is helpful to listen to the needs of your mind, body and spirit at this time.

An Inner Balance Spread & Reading for this Eclipse

The lunar eclipse happens on May 16th at 12:15 EDT in Scorpio. The Taurus-Scorpio energies at play are about worthiness, money, shared resources, intimacy, sex, illumination of that which is hidden and deep transformation. This particular eclipse is making a tight square with Saturn, which means it may challenge us to accept limitations, negotiate boundaries or cultivate greater maturity. This eclipse may also bring some sort of release or ending, which can be painful. It could also feel like relief, and an opportunity to accept things as they are so we can move forward with greater wisdom.

Let’s see what the cards say about navigating these energies! Below is my 5-card Inner Balance Spread that I offer in my Inner Balance Readings. It is great whenever you feel overwhelmed, frazzled, scattered, burned out, or feel out-of-sync in your body and mind. It will help you address your needs on all levels and feel more centered.

My Inner Balance Spread

For this reading, I used The Gentle Tarot by Mariza Ryce Aparicio-Tovar. The interpretations are mine but I include quotes from the author as well. You can use any deck you resonate with for this spread. As you shuffle the cards, drop into your body, heart and soul. Let the feelings arise. Ask to be guided towards your wellness and wholeness in body, heart, mind and spirit.

This is what I’ve pulled for you today, dear reader, for this eclipse:

Body: Seven of Wands

1.Body- Seven of Wands: Stand up tall and root your feet onto Terra Firma! You are more powerful than you’ve allowed yourself to be. Carry yourself with conviction and connect to that flame within that burns bright and wild within. You are strong, resilient, wise and know where you stand. Embody your inner fire. Let your passion move you, and give your anger an outlet. Anger can both heal and destroy, the raven reminds us to use this energy wisely. Try movement and sounding to release stuck frustration. Listen to the needs of your body and tell others what you need. Command and embody respect. This starts from within- from healthy self-respect for your own body, its needs, desires and limitations. You decide what energies you let in. You decide what’s right for you.

“Command your energy and cast it with integrity where it needs to be- this is called conviction and it is healthy. You know when something is right or wrong. Don’t fear fighting for it. You are powerful. Together we can change the ways of the world.”- Mariza.

Heart-Nine of Wands

2. Heart- Nine of Wands: Are you feeling the need to protect yourself right now? Perhaps you are struggling with trust. What is your heart telling you about who or what you can trust? Are you feeling safe? How can you adjust your boundaries in a healthy way to protect your tender heart but still be able to receive the love and healing you need? The lynx is a wise feline who’s wildish instincts keep her safe. Perhaps your inner lynx is asking you to pay attention to how you really feel about a situation. Maybe something isn’t quite as it seems and your heart is telling you so. Listen to that wildish wisdom in your heart, it will not guide you astray. Safety is the precursor to any genuine connection, healing or opening, so if safety isn’t there, protection and boundaries are a must.

“It is okay to guard yourself. The world is what it is and not all people are worthy of your trust.” – Mariza.

Mind: Flower of Thunder

3. Mind-Flower of Thunder: Engage your wisdom and objectivity. Look at your situation with the clarity and breadth of the eagle. Eagle is an amazing huntress and knows how to see the big picture as well as zoom-in on her prey. You too, can move between the big picture and laser-like focus if you choose to. Your higher mind is aligned with your sense of what is right, true and honest. Cultivate truth and honesty. Are you being honest with yourself and others? Don’t be afraid to cut to the truth of the matter. Communicate clearly what you desire, what you see, what you know. Are you living in tune with your ethics and principles? Speak from your heart- share what you stand for and all will flow from there.

“The energy of this card is one of bold, clear communication coming from an experienced, loving, powerful heart.” -Mariza

Spirit: Seven of Cups

4. Spirit- Seven of Cups: You are at a special place in time where many opportunities present themselves. Your spiritual path has perhaps come to a crossroads where you can choose your own adventure from this point forward, or you are at a juncture where you can choose a libation of nourishment to support you on your path. You have options before you, however it is important that you remember that not everything is as it seems upon first glance. Take a moment to reflect on what it is that truly serves your spiritual growth, rather than reaching for the shiny thing in front of you as a reflex. Look a bit deeper. Take some quiet time to listen to the whisperings in your heart and soul. Then, when you look at the opportunities or offerings before you, you will choose from your deepest truth and authentic soul desire.

“I embrace my gifts and the options that surround me. Instead of being scattered or spread too thin, I am ready to choose and I go all in.”- Mariza

Integration: The Tower

5. Integration- The Tower: Sometimes, the world is in chaos and it seems impossible to gain steady ground, stability, hope or serenity. During times of upheaval like these, what flame still flickers in your heart and soul, keeping you here, helping you wake up every morning? What small things can keep you grounded in the moment? Times of change and crisis are the destruction of illusions, the disintegration of the wobbly structures and outgrown narratives that can’t hold up to the power and truth of this moment or who you are anymore. They must give way to a better system, a better container for all of who you are becoming and what the world is becoming. Change can be really scary, and its ok to feel anxious, weird or out-of-sync. It can also bring feelings of grief as the old passes away, and we aren’t quite sure what new will emerge. But remember that this time of transformation is about creating a more authentic life. As the integration card, The Tower reminds you that all that you are feeling right now is due to some deep internal changes happening, right down to the cellular level, so be patient with yourself and allow some space and time for integration of all that you are processing. Eventually a new world and a new you will emerge, perfectly in sync. Trust the process.

“Amidst the chaos, there is deep knowing, humility and trust in their facial expression. The figure depicted here is androgynous, all labels and boundaries aside. Burn old ideas and allow the true to emerge. Start fresh. Allow restrictive ideas, unhealthy relationships, and toxicity to be stripped away.” -Mariza

How do these messages land for you? How do you support your wellness during eclipse season? Share in the comments!

Would you like a more in-depth, personalised Inner Balance Reading with me? I offer the above spread in my Inner Balance Readings. See my Tarot Readings page for details.

May you be well resourced and adaptable during these intense times. With love and warmth,

Serena

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Spring Equinox Spread + Reading!

‘Tis the season of growth.

Growth can be uncomfortable, exhilarating or downright painful. It can be all of these things. Spring urges us to be brave, bold and take action on our instincts to move forward. In order to live the life we wish for, to make those dreams we incubated and flirted with through the winter come true, we need to take action to help them take hold and grow.

Sometimes this process isn’t clear- we don’t always have a strong vision on what it is we are moving towards, but we may have a sense of what has lived its purpose and smell the scent of change in the air. We may already be walking towards that new place within ourselves but haven’t even realised it or seen evidence of forward movement yet.

Like a bear emerging from its cave, we can sometimes take a while to adjust to the light, realise where we are, and what we need to do. I’m not a morning person, so I often feel the sleepy bear vibe this time of year.

In this process of emergence, we may need to say a final goodbye to something, someone or some part of us that is holding us back. It might be time to clean out the closet- literally and metaphorically. It might be time to more actively seek out what our heart has been longing for silently, in the background, while we went about our daily business of simply surviving.

In the spirit of the season, I have created a Spring Equinox Spread to help you nourish your growth process. It can be used to help you grow a specific creative idea or venture, a relationship or a new way of being within yourself. This spread can be done with your own Tarot or oracle deck. I also have done a reading for you below!

As you shuffle your deck, focus on your ‘seed’- the new venture, vision, project or aspect of yourself you wish to manifest. Feel in your heart what you long to manifest. When you are ready, lay the cards in the order below. The spread will guide you in nourishing and growing your goal!

Spring Equinox Spread
  1. Soil-This cards speaks to your foundations, the ‘soil’ your seed needs to be planted in. It shows you the nourishment requirements. It answers the question- What nourishes the roots of this goal? What foundations are required for this to work? What is needed to sustain this growth? This is the most important card in the reading, as you can’t get a healthy plant with unhappy soil or neglected roots!

2. Breaking Ground- This card shows you the approach to taking action, overcoming obstacles and moving forward. This card speaks to the process of breaking out from under the soil and reaching up. It answers the question- How can I meet the challenges to growth that I face? What action can I take now to encourage forward movement? When you face an obstacle to your goal, this card speaks to the recommended approach to dealing with it.

3. Stability- This card speaks to how to stay centered and focused on the goal. It helps you stay aligned with your purpose and inner strength. In our growth process, we might feel pulled in different directions or wonder if we are truly doing the right thing. It answers the question: How do I sometimes get off track and how can I stay on track?

4. Inner Growth- This card reflects the evolution and growth process that is happening within you. It may be what prompted this venture in the first place. It may or may not be something visible to others or even yourself. It answers the question- How am I changing? What is this venture teaching me?

5. Outer Growth- This card reflects how your inner growth is affecting your self-expression or your relationship with the outside world. How you connect with others, how you behave. It answers the question- How is my behaviour shifting from this process? How am I growing as I walk through life? How is this process affecting my relationships? This is what is visible to others.

Below is the reading I have done for you using the Goddess Power Oracle by Collette Baron-Reid, with my own interpretation:

  • Roots- Hestia- Goddess of the hearth and home Hestia is here to remind you that your seed’s roots are nourished with a strong home base. Where do you call home? Do you feel at home within yourself? Do you feel comfortable in your skin or try to run away? Do you feel nourished by your environment? It may be time to clean and beautify your space so you can function better within it. Maybe a new coat of paint, or a new colour scheme that reflects your authentic self. Or perhaps it’s time to move to a new dwelling that better reflects who you are and where you want to be. Nourish your roots and foundations by making a space that is yours. Create a physical space or an altar dedicated to to the new you or the venture you’re embarking on. Reflect the beauty of who you are and what you want in your environment. You will better manifest your goals if you have a strong home base- within yourself and around you to nourish them from.
  • Breaking Ground- Elen of the Ways- Deer goddess Elen makes us aware of patterns and shows us new pathways forward. It is easy for us to get stuck in unhealthy habits that hold back our growth. Elen is here to remind you that in order to overcome any obstacles you are facing, you need to notice your patterns and habits. If you don’t like what is in front of you, change how you’re going about things. Notice the patterns and habits you’ve created in your daily life. Are they serving your goal? Are you using your energy efficiently? Are there patterns of self-talk or self-sabotaging thoughts that prevent your forward movement? It’s time to take action by creating new pathways that serve what you are trying to manifest. Is there a path you haven’t tried yet? It may not be the well-trodden path you’re used to. Look around you and see what paths lead toward your goal. If there isn’t one, create a new one!
  • Stability- Maya- Goddess of Illusion reminds us that we need to see things as they really are instead of how we want them to be. We may go off track when we fall into wishful thinking, or see things through an outworn lens or story. This story could be of the essence of ‘poor me’ or ‘I never…’ or ‘I always…’. Or, when we invest in an illusion. Clarity is what keeps us stable, growing and on track. Get realistic and clear about your goal, your intention, what it is you are aiming towards, or your ‘plant’ will not be able to sustain itself. What illusions do you entertain around your situation? Do they serve your growth or inhibit it? What changes within you when you choose to see the situation as it is? Stay on track by looking beyond the veil of gossamer and staying present with what is.
  • Inner Growth- Freya- Goddess Freya brings the message of Radical Acceptance. Much inner growth is possible through this, when you accept yourself and your situation fully. Maybe you’ve had some disppointments, conflicts and battles and feel you’ve come out the loser. Maybe the setbacks have eroded your faith in yourself or dampened your warrior spirit. We can’t win every battle. Life inevitably leaves us scarred from our experiences. Our scars become part of what makes us who we are. We don’t need to accept cruel behaviour in our lives, but we need to accept that it happened to us and here we are now. It takes bravery and courage to accept what is. This inner shift may or may not be visible to others around you, but you will feel much lighter and at peace when you make it. This venture may spring from a newfound sense of wholeness and acceptance within yourself. It will teach you to appreciate all aspects of you.
  • Outer Growth-Shakti- Transformation- You are changing, and it this is reflected in your relationships and how you relate to others. The life force generated from this growth process will radiate through you in new ways, drawing new connections to you. You may surprise people around you with your energy. It is shifting every day, and you may feel a bit awkward sometimes. Just keep trusting that this change is needed and part of your growth process. You are reaching out to the world and changing everything you touch with a bit of magick. You are a divine being full of creative power to change the world. This this is beginning to radiate outward and will transform your life in many ways. Your growth serves as a way to transform the lives of others. You are transforming the world around you simply by being yourself.

Your growth and renewal is imminent, but like anything in nature- it is a process. Be patient with it, and trust that while sometimes we can grow in leaps and bounds, it most often happens one step at a time.

This Spring Equinox/Alban Eiler/Ostara, may you see with clarity, as the dark and light are in balance. May you thrive and grow in beauty and strength.

Blessed Be,

Serena

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Imbolc Oracle Reading- Seeds of New life

Imbolc marks the point between the Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox, and its traditions stem from Celtic celebrations of the very beginnings of spring. Here in Canada, we are still far from visible signs of spring, but the light is noticeably increasing and along with it, the hope and optimism of warmer days to come.

The Earth Mother is still resting but deep below, the potential of new life stirs. Within our creative cauldron, the seeds of this year’s harvest begin to awaken us to their potential.

Imbolc is said to be derived from old Irish, meaning ‘in the belly’ referring to pregnant ewes. The promise of new birth and the nourishment of ewe’s milk signify the hope and renewal this season symbolises. The Irish goddess Brighid- Goddess of healing, fertility, the hearth, smithcraft and poetry is also venerated at this time.

In Wales, this celebration is called Gwyl Mair, the feast of Mary, and it aligns with the Christian Candlemas and our Groundhog day, with overlapping themes of purification, light, divining the future and preparation for spring.

Similar to the ‘nesting’ instinct a pregnant mother experiences, we may start to feel the desire to prepare for new life coming in spring. We don’t really know what awaits us yet, we must follow our intuition and trust our instincts to lead us in the right direction. We may declutter our home, our psyche or cleanse our body in preparation for this mysterious new life to come. At some point in the coming weeks, we may begin to feel some clarity on a new desire, goal or vision for the year ahead and take our first baby steps towards it. We may feel drawn to make changes in our life to support the future self we are birthing.

Imbolc Oracle Spread

Imbolc is traditionally a time for divination. Groundhog Day is very similar to traditions in Europe where the habits of animals were seen as ways of predicting when winter will end. Even though the light is increasing, darkness continues to reign and therefore divination can really be a guiding light to help us forward.  

I don’t personally wait for a special day to do divination, as it is part of my daily practice and lifestyle! But I tend to create new variations of spreads for the sabbats, just to change things up for myself. Here is my Imbolc one below…

Imbolc Spread: Seeds of New Life

Imbolc Spread- Seeds of New Life

Seeds: This position speaks to the potential incubating within. It may represent an idea, feeling, or the message regarding your seeds for the year.

Resistance: This position speaks to resistance or obstacles to clear in order for the seed to grow. Often around Imbolc we can be faced with challenges such as self-doubt, fear or insecurity. This card shows the nature of these challenges.

Light: This card is like the sunlight shining down on your seeds, pulling them towards growth. It speaks to the energy that brings you growth and renewal. It asks that rather than actively working on this energy, simply open and surrender to it.

Next Step: This card points you to the next baby step to take. It will help you clear the Resistance and/or embrace the Light card.

Try this spread with your favorite deck or book a reading with me!

Below is a reading for you, using the Goddess Power Oracle Deck by Colette Baron Reid.

Seeds- Danu- Assurance:

It’s been hard to feel a whole lot of hope these days. Endless pandemic burnout may be affecting you and your ability to believe in yourself and your ability to even dream or hope or create new life again. Danu, Celtic Mother goddess brings her assurance and steadfast strength to remind you that indeed you CAN create new life again, your dreams ARE valid, and you WILL be renewed!

She brings the assurance of the turning of the seasons, the warmth and growth of spring as guaranteed after this fallow period. As the Earth Mother, she reminds us of the importance of cycles and divine timing. Relax into the certainty of growth. She places her hands on your shoulders and asks you breathe in her assurance and trust all is manifesting in perfect timing, in the perfect way. Find the spark of confidence within. Whatever seed of desire you feel within, BELIEVE in its manifestation. It is promised.

Resistance- Metis-Wisdom:

Do you feel small or inexperienced? Do you feel imposter syndrome? Do you feel that your desire won’t manifest because you aren’t wise or powerful enough to make it so? Greek Goddess Metis reminds us wisdom comes with both knowledge and experience. We all have our unique wisdom to share.

Sometimes when we are faced with something new, we are afraid to take the first step because we won’t be good at it, we won’t be as good as someone else. We need to be willing to be a beginner sometimes, to make mistakes and learn from them. We must be willing to not be perfect.

We are all in a process of becoming. What lessons have you learned from last year? What wisdom have you gained? Is there deep wisdom within you need to recognise and share?

Our challenge is our willingness to embrace the wisdom we have and to keep walking our path towards greater wisdom.

How can you apply your experience and wisdom to the challenges you face now? Is there someone wise and knowledgeable you can reach out to?

Light-Kali-Liberation:

The fierce Hindu goddess Kali shines upon your seeds of rebirth, asking you to surrender to the process of shedding old skins, past selves and others’ ideas of who you are in order to grow. She asks you to liberate yourself by being authentic and true to yourself. Let go of the ‘what ifs’ and ‘what will they think?’ thoughts in your mind. Let go of the roles that stifle and restrict you, you are done with them. Life may have been shining the light on some truths about yourself or your upbringing that aren’t serving you anymore and it is best to simply let those habits and roles fall away now.

Turn your face up towards the light of Kali, shining her truth, authenticity and liberation upon you. Let your natural instincts guide you towards what feels like freedom and liberation from the past and your desires will start to manifest. Take a moment to breathe the energy of liberation into your body. What would it feel like to break free? Feel yourself becoming lighter and brighter and you courageously allow yourself to take up a bit more space! Surrender to this process of lightening and letting go.

Next Step- Hera-Alliance:

Your next step is to connect with your allies. These can be people with whom you resonate and vibrate harmoniously with. They can also be spirit guides, plant or animal allies that support your inner strength, resilience, and growth.

Sometimes we feel we are all alone on our path. We may feel that no one understands us, or that we must bear our burdens alone. Greek goddess Hera reminds us that we don’t exist in a vacuum, we are interdependent beings, and strengthening our relationships serves to strengthen us as well.  

Regarding the Resistance card message, we may wish to ally ourselves with those who are knowledgeable and wise, those we admire for their wisdom, who bring out our own wisdom or encourage us to keep learning and growing on our unique path.

Regarding the Light card message, it is important that our allies serve our authentic needs, growth and liberation from old patterns. We need to be discerning in our choice of friends, teachers, collaborators and partners. If a relationship forces us into an outworn role or story with no room for change and growth, then it might not be with someone we would consider an ally. The next step is to reach out to someone you feel you resonate with, who supports your authenticity and growth.

Take your time, be gentle as you incubate your precious new beginnings, my friend. May the Goddess support you on your path, assuring you that all will happen in divine timing.

“It is not true that people stop pursuing dreams because they grow old, they grow old because they stop pursuing dreams.”― Gabriel García Márquez

Are you interested in learning more about Imbolc and delving deeper into its energies? Join me for our online Imbolc Circle: Nacent Beginnings, this Friday, Feb 4th @7pm!

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