10 Tarot Affirmations To Overcome Anxiety

Creating tarot affirmations to overcome anxiety is a magical and effective way to practice mindfulness during difficult times.

There is no doubt that the lockdown measures around the world caused by the pandemic have offered many people a chance to slow down, spend more time with loved ones and even generated new business ideas and opportunities.

Over the last year in this surreal state of stagnation, I also cherished the quiet life away from noisy crowds, busy traffic and hectic travel schedules.

All well and good, but at the same time many people have also been affected by loss, insecurity, worries and fears of what the future might hold.

Mental health issues during the Covid-19 have increased, such as depression and anxiety.

There are many activities that can be cultivated to cope with mental health issues, but in this article I focus on practicing mindfulness with tarot affirmations to overcome anxiety.

Affirmations are often used to turn negative thinking into a more optimistic outlook, and they can work really well when used regularly.

Each card in the Tarot offers its own powerful messages, and when you draw your daily card, choose affirmations as suggested below.

Repeat these affirmations to yourself regularly during the day to cultivate positivity, resilience and joy. This can help you snap out of the negative self-talk loop.

Here are suggestions for some of the Major Arcana cards:

The Fool

Today will be a great day.

I am looking forward to what today brings.

I find joy in the present.

I take each moment as it comes.

I am positive.

I am open to receive what makes me happy.

I am doing well.

I am curious and love exploring new possibilities.

One step at a time.

The Empress

I am creative. I am comfortable.

I take good care of myself.

I draw energy from nature.

I treat myself to healthy food and drink.

I am natural and at ease with myself.

I am loved. I am loving.

I love myself. I am beautiful.

I am practical and get things done.

I have all I need to feel abundant.

I am grounded and confident.

The Chariot

When the going gets tough, I am determined to keep going.

I persevere despite difficulties.

I am in the right frame of mind.

I am focused. I will succeed.

I am breaking free from my comfort zone of destructive thoughts.

I actively choose my destiny.

My willpower guides me from turmoil to safe haven.

I am a fighter.

I am conquering my worries and fears.

Strength

I am strong.

I am in control of my thoughts.

I am determined to overcome what is dragging me down.

I am gentle but also persistent.

I refuse to give up on myself.

I successfully balance my fears with my passion for life.

I have the power to tame uncomfortable thoughts and feelings.

Today I have the energy and desire to have a wonderful day.

Justice

My heart and mind are in alignment.

I can see the bigger picture.

My thoughts are guided by logic and reason rather than assumptions and drama.

I am honest with myself and others.

I take responsibility for my wellbeing.

I have the power to choose wisely.

I balance my intellect with compassion, comfort with challenge.

I make peace with my mind.

Death

Today I emerge from my cocoon and rise towards the sun like an eagle.

I am changing. I am maturing.

I am transforming my life with a new way of thinking.

I can feel my mind shifting and evolving.

I choose life. I accept change.

Out of darkness into the light.

I am shedding my limitations.

I am regenerating, giving birth to new potential.

The Devil

I am the master of my own destiny.

I sever unhealthy bonds.

I stay clear of destructive habits.

I am emerging from the shadows of fear and despair.

I am tapping into my inner resources to enhance my relationships, work, health, and home.

I confront difficulties rather than living in denial.

I am persistent and motivated to live my best life.

The Star

I am shining my light.

I am showing up.

I am standing tall in my grace and serenity.

I believe in my inner strength and abilities.

I connect with spirit.

I am hopeful. I am inspired.

Positive thoughts are flowing through my mind.

My self-esteem is flourishing.

The universe is guiding me in the right direction.

I believe in miracles. Magic is all around me.

The Sun

I am present. I am joyful.

I am vibrant.

I am inspired to create magic guided by my inner light.

I can see and think clearly.

All is falling into place.

All is making sense.

All is unravelled.

I am true to myself.

I am unique.

I am healing, and I heal others.

All is well. I take time to just be.

Life is good.

The World

I am safe. I am enough.

I am right where I need to be.

I am comfortable in my own skin.

I keep my options open.

I have the power to seek new adventures and experiences at any time.

I have the power of choice.

I know myself and make the most of my knowledge.

I am the master of my hopes and fears, dreams, and reality.

⭐Download and print the full set of 22 Major Arcana affirmation cards from my Ko-fi page⭐

You will find many more divination printables on my Ko-fi page that help to support you in looking after your mental health and living your best life.

Learn more and join today.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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22 Equinox Journaling Prompts To Balance Your Life

Today's Equinox marks the day when daylight and night-time are equal in length. It also coincides with the sun entering Libra, which is linked to the Justice card in the Tarot.

So, whether you are celebrating the Spring or Autumn Equinox, the common theme is Balance.

Hence, the following equinox journaling prompts are universal rather than specific to any geographical location. 

These prompts are designed to explore opposing energies in our lives and find ways to align, adjust, and integrate them.

Creating balance in your life is an ongoing process, and with this collection of seasonal prompts you can do some serious but also fun and fascinating soul work over the coming weeks.

Each prompt consists of two positions. Draw a card for each, and if you like you can also draw a third card to explore how to align the opposing energies.

22 journaling prompts to balance your life:

1. Withdraw from… / Connect with…

2. My heart / My mind

3. I learn / I teach

4. Denial / Acceptance

5. I am free to… / I am responsible for…

6. I am confused about… / This will give me clarity:

7. Imagination / Reality

8. Knowledge / Wisdom

9. My struggle: / My power:

10. I trust: / I doubt:

11. My plan: / My action:

12. I fear: / I embrace:

13. Habit / Change

14. Stop… / Start…

15. Renew: / Discard:

16. Slow down / Accelerate

17. Fly high / Lie low

18. My pain: / My pleasure:

19. This is ending: / This is beginning:

20. Conflict / Peace

21. I resist: / I surrender

22. I choose: / I receive:

⭐Play the Equinox Divination Game⭐

Just like the Solstice Divination Game, playing with these journal prompts doesn’t have to be limited to the time of the Equinox.

Play whenever you feel you need to create balance in your life.

Printable cards and instructions are available on my Ko-Fi page

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Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

The Lion's Gate Opening Reflected In The Tarot

The Lion's Gate is opening on the 8th August (8/8), but what does that mean? And how can you make the most of it?

In astrology, the alignment of the earth, sun (currently in the zodiac Leo) and Sirius (the brightest star in the sky) is called the opening of the Lion's Gate.

It is said that during this time you can harness the power of the Lion's Gate to activate your third eye.

Sirius as the brightest star in the night sky is easily visible. Look up and it often stands out from all the other stars.

It pops up in Greek and Egyptian mythology, and it is said that around the 8/8 date Sirius can be seen above the pyramid of Giza.

Sirius is called the spiritual sun hence its alleged spiritual powers we can harness, especially at the time of the Lion's Gate alignment.

The Lion's Gate Opening Reflected In The Tarot

In the Tarot, Strength is number 8 in the Major Arcana - a link to the 8/8 date and to the zodiac sign Leo.

Also note the lemniscate above the maiden's head - the symbol of infinity, and together with the number 8 also holds empowerment and rebirth.

Talking about rebirth, Strength in the Tarot is also linked numerically to key no. 17, The Star (1+7=8), and the star on the image is 8-pointed.

The Star symbolises higher consciousness, so questions to explore in connection with this card and the Lion's Gate opening are:

• How can I awaken my divine light?
• How can I align with my higher self/authentic self?
• What does my soul need right now to evolve?

How to harness the power of the Lion's Gate

The best thing to do is to take some time out to go inwards.

Unplug from devices and social media.

Meditate - this can involve the classic meditation of sitting still with your eyes closed, but you could also take an evening stroll through the local park or forest. 

Time out in nature helps to calm down an overactive, over-stimulated mind.

Take a relaxing bath.

Meditate on the Strength card. Focus on where in your life you want to activate your empowerment, passion, creativity and resilience.

Learn more about how to open and activate your Third Eye Chakra.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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22 Side Effects You Experience When Learning The Tarot

The High Priestess - Housewives Tarot

If you are interested in learning the Tarot, you need to be aware of some serious side effects you may encounter.

You see, learning the Tarot isn't about memorising card meanings. It's actually living the whole damn thing every day and every moment.

It's a way of life.

It's about doing a lot of inner work that turns your insides out and puts it all back together again, but differently.

It's breaking and healing.

If you think that spiritual awakening is all love n light, you're mistaken. If you don't confront and deal with your darkness, you just live in an illusion.

But worry not. The side effects you experience when learning the Tarot will help you become a better person and live your best life.

Here are the most commonly experienced side effects as reflected in the 22 cards of the Major Arcana:

The Fool: You start to discover new aspects of yourself.

The Magician: You realise anything is possible.

The High Priestess: You learn to access your inner wisdom.

The Empress: You become more creative.

The Emperor: You feel empowered.

The Hierophant: Amongst family and friends you start to feel a bit of an outsider...

The Lovers: ...but you will also meet like-minded souls and make new friends.

The Chariot: You will leave your comfort zone behind...

St:rength ...and have the courage and passion to persevere.

The Hermit: You start enjoying your solitude.

Wheel of Fortune: You worry less about what you cannot control.

Justice: You learn to balance logic with intuition when making important choices.

The Hanged Man: You begin to see the world differently.

Death: You become a new person.

Temperance: You stress less and live more in the flow.

The Devil: You recognise and deal with the dark stuff in your life.

The Tower: You question everything.

The Star: You begin to see the bigger picture.

The Moon: You will fall in love with the moon.

The Sun: You realise that happiness is a choice, and confidence is a daily practice.

Judgement: You rise above drama.

The World: You look back at your life and see how far you have come.

These are only 22 side effects most people will experience, but there are also reports of reduction in anxiety and depression when working with the tarot over a long period.

Have you experienced any side effects not listed here? Let me know!

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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The Mercury Retrograde Tarot Spread

Just when I finished my last post about Venus Retrograde, Mercury Retrograde (RX) was looming on the horizon.

Mercury RX is a regular occurrence, happening three to four times a year for around three weeks.

During this period, the closest planet to the sun appears to be moving backwards when observed in the sky.

Everyone seems to get really flustered when Mercury goes retrograde, so I've created the Mercury Retrograde Tarot Spread to soothe your nerves :D

It's the planet of communication and travel (and all things Magician!), so expect misunderstandings, important emails ending up in your spam folder, software updates going wrong and disrupted travel plans during this time.

During Mercury RX it is worthwhile paying more attention to legal documents and the smallprint, choosing your written and spoken words even more wisely, and trying to avoid publication launches like blogs, websites and magazines.

The best way to understand what retrograde means in terms of energies surrounding us, explore the reversed meanings of the tarot cards linked to that particular planet, in this case all the cards linked to Mercury.

Explore these cards to discover specific areas you will need to pay attention to that can be affected by Mercury retrograde.

For the spread, shuffle your deck and draw a card for each of the following topics:

1. Communication Hiccup
2. A resource I'm lacking
3. Where I self-sabotage
4. Trickery
5. What to leave behind (or not!)
6. My power
7. My special skill

Mercury RX can also be surprisingly beneficial. Rather than rushing into signing a big contract purchase, let it rest to mull it over for a while.

The same applies to asking for a pay rise, booking a holiday, or feeling the urge to text your ex in the middle of the night.

Just leave it until Mercury has stationed direct again, and by that time you might be very glad that you did.

If you would like to learn more about how to combine tarot with astrology, then please check out my Starlight Tarot Astrology course.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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Tarot Love Readings - The Relationship Card

The Vampire Tarot - (c) Robert Place

What makes a relationship tick?

It's always fun and insightful to explore its dynamics and compatibility in tarot love readings.

Often, random cards are drawn in a spread, which is fine, but you can also learn more by working out the couple's relationship card.

For this, you need to know each person's personality card and add the numbers of each card together, which gives you the relationship card (The Fool = 22).

I demonstrate this with the personality cards of me and my ex - haha, it's a crazy fun mindfluff, but it also offers some revelations about what the heck went wrong ?

So this is me (9 - Hermit) and him (4 - Emperor), add both numbers together, which makes Death our relationship card 😱😂

Well, Death kind of says it all; a Hufflepuff Hermit (zodiac card Knight of Cups - Pisces) trying to make it work with a Slytherin Emperor (zodiac card King of Swords - Aquarius). You can literally feel the cracks forming.

However, Death also indicates that this relationship was transformational in some way.

For me it has helped shift a lot of old baggage, uncomfortable at first, but in the end one of the happiest breakups I have experienced 😃

And what do all the other Major Arcana cards mean as relationship keys?

Here are my suggestions:

1 - The Magician: The only way the Magician can come up as a relationship card is when based on a combination of the Fool (0) and the Magician (1), but because the Magician doesn't exist as a personality card (birth dates don't add up to 1), it also won't come up as a relationship card.

However, the energy of the Magician is inherent in the numbers 10 and 19, and therefore Wheel of Fortune (10) and the Sun (19) relationships have the power to master and resolve any situation that comes their way.

2 - The High Priestess: The only way the High Priestess can come up as relationship card is when combined of the Fool (0) and the High Priestess (2).

A soul connection; mutual understanding without exchanging words. There is a sense of belonging and having known each other for ever. Spiritual nurturing; but also the danger of loosing sight of reality, mixing up naivity with spiritual maturity.

3 - The Empress: a creative connection; family. Traditional roles; physical and sensual attraction are key. A sense of belonging and longevity. A successful partnership. Thrives when mutual interests include spending time in nature.

This relationship doesn't work well if it's long-distance or there are longer separations, e.g. extensive business travel.

4 - The Emperor: Strong and committed. This relationship is built on mutual aspirations and ambitions. Both can rely on each other in good as well as bad times. A power couple. Needs to avoid neglecting emotional needs, when focused too much on the business and practical side of the relationship.

5 - The Hierophant: Two people sharing the same values. Traditional, conservative, conventional. Strengthened by taking time for travel, cultural experiences, art and philosophical discussions about politics, religion etc. Avoid lack of change and intolerance.

6 - The Lovers: A constant balance of head and heart. Obstacles and difficulties are overcome with love even if the mind suggests otherwise. Deep down there is certainty that love prevails and both are committed. Opposites attract. A tendency to avoid conflict or frank discussions, which can cause anxiety and deception.

7 - The Chariot: Both people in this relationship prefer to be independent, e.g. keep their separate bank accounts, homes, etc. They walk next to each other rather than towards each other, and yet they are deeply connected. A competitive streak; enjoying sports and travel together. Too much self-reliance can cause detachment. A need to set clear boundaries and keep eyes on mutual goal and aspirations.

8 - Strength: An exciting combination of lust and passion, which won't be tamed by love and long-term commitment. Heated arguments followed by passionate reconciliation. Power struggles; taming of the shrew. Beauty and the beast. A need for reflection and giving the other space from time to time.

9 - The Hermit: Down to earth; practical; no pretence. A relationship built on honesty and trust. You are true to yourself individually and true to each other. Loyalty. An ideal business partnership working well together. Two introverts found each other, who need to ensure that the relationship keeps growing by pushing their individual comfort zones.

10 - Wheel of Fortune: A karmic relationship; two people have found each other at the right time and know they belong together despite a difficult start. A need to know your purpose as a couple, e.g. starting a family or engaging in social activism, starting a business, helping others etc. If this common purpose is unknown, then feelings of restriction and limitation can come up.

11 - Justice: Equality, fairness. Fairly give and fairly take. A slow starter turning into a strong relationship after much consideration. Harmony; pleasant togetherness. A social couple with good circle of friends. Avoid blaming the other in crisis situations, and try not to focus too much on the other's flaws.

12 - Hanged Man: Obstacles and difficulties can easily stop this relationship in its tracks. Making sacrifices or simply surrender to outside influences are often the only solution to make it work long-term. Patience. Avoid stubbornness and rigidity; an open and flexible approach is required.

13 - Death: This card doesn't necessarily mean the end is unavoidable or even in sight. It can be the opposite: lively and transformational for both. Many changes determine the flow of this relationship, e.g. house moves, jobs, family, and the need for constant re-invention and adaptability. It's intense and any resistance by one or both can indeed mean the end.

14 - Temperance: Opposites attract; making it work requires skill, but with time harmony prevails. A healing relationship. A magical mix of commitment and independence. Playful. Experimental. Finding a middle ground. Avoid pretending that all is fine when it isn't; frank discussions and conflict help to find solutions and rebalance your equilibrium.

15 - The Devil: Even though this relationship starts off based on strong mutual attraction (so much so that lust and passion can suck sanity out of both parties),  there is danger of codependence and loss of spark in the long-term. That's because this couple has made a commitment to each other, and they don't want to break it lightly. This is a positive attitude and combined with keeping love and romance fresh and adventurous, this relationship can keep thriving. Avoid power struggles and competition with each other.

16 - The Tower: Mars rules this relationship, which can be tempestuous, destructive but also liberating at the same time. There is no codependence here; two people have minds and aspirations of their own, which they are determined to pursue. One person doesn't give up their dreams only to make the other happy. Tolerance and serenity will help weather any storms.

17 - The Star: Optimism, peace and calm dominate this relationship. Drama doesn't belong here, and any crisis situation is handled with pragmatism and recognising the bigger picture of what is truly important. A strong but gentle bond. No need to get married; perhaps even no need to live together and yet nothing keeps you apart on a spiritual level. Both allow each other space and freedom.

18 - The Moon: a deeply emotional bond; often conflicting emotions, filled with an abundance of imagination and fantasy. A romantic love that may not be the ideal match when looked at in the light of day a couple of months down the line. Nothing is sensible or rational here, but love and infatuation rule in a lingering way. Avoid pull-push scenarios, i.e. leaving and coming back. This will seriously affect your mental health and self-esteem.

19 - The Sun: a glorious life force; whole-heartedness, giving love and affection to each other generously. A relationship that boosts confidence and wellbeing. Quarrels are quickly forgotten. Bringing the best out of each other. A social couple with many friends, enjoying life and fun times. Avoid egotism and self-centredness, which can put a dampener on this relationship.

20 - Judgement: The longer it lasts, the better it gets. Over time, the healing power of this relationship is revealed, having a profound effect on both. In this relationship you can let go of old wounds. A deep bond growing over time and together, this couple can achieve more than indvidually on their own. Mutual help and support. Avoid taking the other for granted. Be prepared to forgive.

21 - The World: Grounding and solid. You know where you stand with each other, accepting each other the way you are. A great foundation for a family. A feeling you have arrived and nothing can tear you apart, except when you start to feel stifled wondering, if there is more out there when contemplating the rest of your life. The antidote to this is celebrating and enjoying life together. Avoid routine turning into complacency.

Remember to take your personality cards into account when exploring your relationship card, which can give you a more insightful portrait of your relationship.

You can also use the relationship card to explore connections with challenging people in your life, e.g. parents, children or siblings to work out issues and possible solutions.

Have fun, and let me know how you get on. I'd love to hear from you💚

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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Finding Direction in Your Life with the Tarot

Smith Waite Tarot, Centennial Edition

If you are feeling a little rudderless and wonder where to go from here or if you're on the right track, then it can be helpful finding direction in your life with the Tarot.

Autumn is Hermit season (he's linked to Virgo), and at this time of year questions about purpose, progress and direction often pop up in people's minds.

First, contemplate the symbolism of the Hermit.

He's reached the top of the mountain (the one that is in the background of the Fool), and with his lamp illuminating the way he is trying to find a path down the mountain on the other side.

The top of the mountain represents the current situation, a milestone, where he is right now in his life. What next?

In practical terms, this can relate to a job, relationship or lifestyle choice you are thinking about.

Try the following spread to explore your current path, a path that is open to you or the path you wish to take:

Path - Obstacle - Growth

Example - a relationship situation:

Sharman Caselli Tarot Deck

The Seven of Swords as the current Path suggests something being hidden, which needs to be revealed, or at one point the truth will come out. There's a need to be open and honest, with yourself and the other person.

The Knight of Swords as the Obstacle suggests cruel words, accusations, quick judgement, but also brutal honesty, which can clear the air but can be hurtful.

Avoid nastiness and words you may regret later. Be kinder than you want to be.

The Three of Pentacles as Growth indicates the possibility of reconciliation and rebuilding of this relationship in a healthier and more sustainable way.

Lessons learned include a greater mutual understanding, building trust with honesty and supporting each other.

Support may also come from a third party, like a family member, friend or counsellor.

Here's another spread to explore your current situation and new direction:

Where I am now - Where I want to be - Action to take

Here are some spreads that help you make choices:

Choice a - Choice B - What you need to know to decide

You may even have the choice between three options, so add Choice C if necessary.

Heart - Mind - Balance

Torn between head and heart? This can relate to a career change for example. How can you balance your conflicting thoughts and feelings?

What I want - What I need

Morgan Greer Tarot

What you want is not always what you need right now.

The Sun suggests the desire for happiness, but the Three of Swords may indicate that you need to work through some unresolved grief first.

And if there is no grief in your life, why are you not happy? It's your choice.

Here are some journaling prompts that can help you find purpose and direction:

• What gives me joy?
• Where do I need to be patient (or have been patient for too long)?
• What do I need to release?
• What do I want to walk away from?

Wait and See

Sometimes it is counter-productive to think too much or putting pressure on yourself.

It is actually okay to float for a while and let answers come to you while searching for some inspiration (another Hermit hobby 😁)

Here are some cards that indicate the need to be still, to contemplate, to surrender to the present, to wait and see:

Tarot cards indicating contemplation, wait and see, a new direction ahead... Sharman-Caselli deck

The High Priestess: The mother of wait and see. Silence is golden. Be still and listen. Sit back and observe.

Two of Swords: Caught between a rock and a hard stone; trying to balance heart and mind. There is no harm taking your time. Procrastination can lead to a situation resolving itself or a decision is made for you.

Four of Swords: Take time out from over-thinking. Just rest. Before you can make any kind of decision or gain clarity about what to do next, you need to unplug from the overwhelm for a while.

The Hanged Man: my year card in 2012, and it took me a whole year to start moving again. At one point you just have to surrender, bend rather than break. It's not always down to you, so go with the flow. In your own time.

Seven of Pentacles: a choice between something established and something new. The new is still a seed and needs more attention before you can see its true potential, so be patient and let it grow while you still nurture what you have. And that new seed may never grow into anything. Time will tell.

Seven of Cups: a castle in the sky, which needs a solid foundation. Daydreaming about beautiful possibilities is fun, sometimes it's all you need. Sometimes you don't need to turn a dream into reality, as long as it makes you feel happy and inspired.

Finding direction with the Tarot is a fun and insightful way to reorganise conflicting thoughts and gain some clarity before you take the next step on your journey.

Want to learn more? Check out my tarot courses and ebooks.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

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Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

Combining Tarot And Oracle Cards In Readings

Combining tarot and oracle cards in a reading can offer you a fresh and innovative approach to divination.

There are no rules except experiment and use your imagination.

For that reason combining tarot and oracle cards can be confusing at first, so I've come up with some ideas on how to get started.

Take a look at the following image. How would you interpret the cards to answer the question?

Cosmic Faery Tarot and Cosmic Journaling Oracle

While the tarot card in the centre offers you an overall theme or direction, the two cards of the oracle deck focus on specifics.

Sometimes it is the clarity and succinctness of the oracle that can help you pinpoint the true heart of the matter.

It can offer straightforward and immediate empowerment, something you can act upon straight away.

Instead of Help you could have drawn the Six of Pentacles from your tarot deck, or the King of Swords instead of Knowledge. Possibilities for interpretation would have increased but also become more vague.

What also works is the complementary artwork of both decks, which can make readings more fluid and coherent.

Here are more examples of tarot and oracle decks that work well together:

1. Rider Waite Smith Tarot - Pixie's Astounding Lenormand

Can you combine Tarot and Lenormand cards in a reading even though they are totally different systems?

Yes, why not? If you want to learn more about the Lenormand system, check out Lenormand Reader.

In the meantime, here is a 3-card reading I have done to address a possible career move using Tarot and Lenormand cards together:

Here, the focus is on the Tarot while the Lenormand indicates underlying influences / energies.

The centre card is the heart of the matter surrounded by two energy cards, whereby the card on the right offers an insight into future development / possibilities / direction of this situation.

Eight of Pentacles / Tower: Effort, mastery, a full schedule; being immersed in work. The Tower suggests that the working environment allows advancement, but bureaucracy can be stifling. Timing (Lenormand): 19 days or weeks, so this can be a long-term situation.

Three of Cups / Tree: The total opposite to hard work is having fun and joyful times with people. The need for work-life balance. Reaching out, being social. The Tree suggests that this will maintain health and keep me grounded.

The Star / Child: (Starchild!) Hope, optimism, the future looks bright. The child suggests new beginnings albeit on a small scale. Timing (Lenormand): soon, so there could be some short-term developments that may lead to new opportunities in the future.

Tree - Tower - Child: It is also interesting to look at the Lenormand row separately for additional information.

The combination of Tree and Tower suggests hospital, and funnily enough my part-time work is based in a health service/care environment.

The combination of Tower and Child suggests child welfare, adoption services and teenagers. I'm blown away how much this relates to my work and life (my teenage son lol).

The bigger picture is slowly emerging from this Tarot/Lenormand combination.

2. Morgan Greer Tarot - Chakra Wisdom Oracle

If you would like to combine tarot with chakras, then the Chakra Wisdom Oracle offers a great introduction to chakra balancing and healing.

The spread in the above image is taken from the Chakra Wisdom guidebook and about removing blocks:

What do you perceive as a problem: Empress - Instinct (trusting inner guidance, solitary journey, self-reliance, moving into sovereignty)

What is blocking you: Three of Pentacles - Impatience (wishing for quick results, being exhausted by efforts, forcing something, uncooperative people)

What would create a breakthrough: Six of Swords - Impartiality (take a step back, detach from emotions, take a break, distraction can offer new perspective)

What you must do to create what you desire: Knight of Wands - Insecurity (tackle insecurity by being bold and taking risks; be more confident about your abilities / opportunities)

The tarot cards (Morgan Greer) in this reading  point to the how, why and where. 

In order to get used to combining tarot and oracle cards, you can try this reading using both decks seperately and see what information would be missing by only using one deck.

3. The Wild Unknown Tarot - Connected & Free Oracle

Here, I have used the Connected and Free Oracle to determine positional meanings for this 3-card spread with the Wild Unknown Tarot:

Surrender: Son of Wands (Knight)

Beginnings: Daughter of Swords (Page)

Be You: Six of Pentacles

I love how you can create new intuitive spreads with the Connected and Free Oracle. Here's another one:

Sun's Rays (what is becoming clear)

Flying High (what will accelerate creativity / raise your vibes)

Slow down (where do you need to take it easy / rest / slow down)

4. Bohemian Gothic Tarot - Madame Endora's Fortune Cards

For this tarot and oracle combination, I have chosen a 3-card spread from the Cosmic Tarot Faery Guidebook:

Reflect: The World - The Sphinx (Choose your words carefully)

Illuminate: The Sun - The Harlequin (True feelings are masked)

Discover: Knight of Cups - Fire (Reckless actions lead to conflict)

I love how Madame Endora's Fortune cards offer a sinister but revealing twist to this reading with the Bohemian Gothic Tarot.

Again, explore the difference if only one of these decks was used for this reading.

If you are new to combining tarot and oracle cards, you can start off by drawing an oracle card at the end of a tarot reading as a special message or overall advice.

For this purpose, use an oracle deck with phrases or complete message rather than just keywords such as the Spirit Oracle:

On the other hand, when you do an oracle reading, you can begin by drawing a tarot card to determine the theme or situation.

As you can see, possibilities are endless, and I have only scratched the surface with this article.

Hopefully, my suggestions offer you inspiration to start combining tarot and oracle cards. You will find that this technique will open up a new dimension in your readings and uncover new insights.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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How Chanting Can Help You Meditate

Do you find it hard to still your mind during meditation?

Do you tend to sit in your meditation class desperately trying to avoid thinking about what you'll have for dinner or those bills that keep piling up?

Let me assure you, you're not alone.

I was just like you, and sometimes those unwanted thoughts still trip me up, but I've come across a method that has helped me immensely, and perhaps you will find it useful, too.

First of all, don't underestimate the power of meditation. It's good for your general wellbeing. It helps you relax, build inner strength and promotes a healthy balance of mind-body-spirit.

But our busy monkey mind stops us from meditating effectively.

It's impossible for us to stop thinking. Even while we sleep, our minds produce thoughts in the form of dreams.

Buddhism suggests that instead of struggling to silence our thoughts, we should learn to outwit our restless monkey mind.

How are we going to do that?

By giving it something else to do - something meaningful, too! - which helps us create some powerful magic within us at the same time.

A couple of years ago, I discovered chanting whilst on a Buddhist retreat.

It may sound eccentrically New Age to you, but believe me, after initially feeling weird, I felt its benefit almost straight away.

When you repeatedly chant the same words in the ancient and magical language of Sanskrit, it becomes a mantra, which can gradually shift negative patterns in your life, depending on the meanings of the words.

So, depending on what you want to manifest in your life, you choose the mantra that can help you make it happen.

What I love about chanting is that you don't need to sit still or in a certain position; at the retreat, we walked in a circle on a meadow and around a fireplace (nobody else saw us 😄)

For example, you can chant whilst having a relaxing bath, go for a walk, or you can of course choose the traditional meditation position.

How many times should you chant the mantra?

The magical number is 108. The best way to count correctly during chanting is by using Mala prayer beads. One bead for a complete mantra, until the circle is completed.

My Mala prayer beads - turquoise beads divided by white beads into 4 x 27 sections

If 108 times sounds too much for you at first, you can also shorten your chant down to 27 or 54 times.

These numbers are important and in Buddhist and Sanskrit teachings they have magical powers.

The Number 108 divided by 4 equals 27. A Mala bead necklace is divided into four sections of 27 beads.

Do you need to have a good singing voice to chant?

No. You can simply recite the words repeatedly at a steady and regular pace.

Now that you know the basics, here are four chants I use:

1. Ham Sa

Pronounced: Hahhm Sahh

Meaning: I am That

This very basic mantra helps you ground yourself and focus on your breathing: Ham (inhale) Sa (exhale).

It is said to be a mantra for the heart; it helps you relax and centre. After chanting a round of Ham Sa, you may feel calm yet more energised.

2. Om Namah Shivaya

I discovered this chant in Elizabeth Gilbert's book Eat, Pray, Love. I love the sound when I chant it; its vibration resonates with me deeply.

Pronounced: Aum nah-mah shi-vay

Meaning: I bow to Shiva.

The Hindu God Shiva symbolises the inner self, so by chanting this mantra, you honour the divinity within yourself, and it is said to promote self-worth and confidence.

A spiritual healing mantra, it is made up of five syllables, which represent the five elements earth, air, fire, water and ether.

3. Om Kleem Shreem Brzee 

This is an ancient Sanskrit mantra for bringing love and abundance into your life.

It is often recommended for attracting money or new romantic love, but abundance doesn't always relate to financial wealth, and love can also relate to friendships, connectedness and a loving support network.

Pronounced: check out this YouTube clip, and if you like, sing along to get into the groove 😉

Meaning:

Om - universal sound of creation Kleem - sound for spiritual development, love and devotion Shreem - sound for the divine feminine associated with abundance and prosperity Brzee - sound for removing scarcity from consciousness

Put these four sounds together, and you create an open mind and receptiveness to let love and abundance into your life by removing inner blocks and obstacles surrounding you.

You can shorten this mantra two-ways to make it more specific:

• Om Shreem Brzee - to attract abundance and prosperity
• Om Kleem Brzee - to attract friendships and relationships

4. Ra Ma Da Sa Sa Say So Hung

A universal healing mantra, which consists of the sounds of the four universal energies

Ra - sun Ma - moon Da - earth Sa ( repeated) - infinity

together with Say So Hung, meaning  I am Thou.

This mantra is said to build bodily resistance to disease and can have a healing effect on the body. Its sound stimulates flow and circulation of prana (life force) through the body.

Chant it steadily, inhaling Ra Ma Da Sa and exhaling Sa Say So Hung. Linger a little on the sound 'ng' in Hung as it is said to stimulate divine glands.

Notice this chant has eight syllables - the number of rebirth.

If you are a novice to chanting, then you may find the above mantras easy to pronounce and remember.

With regular practice you will notice their calming effect and power to help you focus your mind on manifesting your desires.

For more information, you can search online for chanting meditation for beginners, or google the above mantras.

There is a wealth of information freely available including viewpoints on how to chant "correctly".

Remember to keep it simple at first before you delve deeper. One step at a time.

Let me know how you get on, and if chanting is already part of your spiritual practice, please share your tips and favourite mantras in the comment box below.

I'd love to hear from you 💚

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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Tarot Journey: Return To The Light

After a dark and gloomy January here in the UK, February has finally arrived.

I can sense a sudden exhilarating shift in my mood as if a button has been pressed in my brain.

The days are getting longer, the snowdrops are blooming, the crocuses are on their way, I’m looking out for buds on shrubs and trees…. on our tarot journey, it’s the return from darkness into the light. Yay😄

The return to the light is symbolised by The Sun in the Major Arcana. Before we embrace this positive energy of joy and enlightenment, we can put closure on the darkness with this little spread:

Now that we have put the darkness to rest (at least for a while), we can focus on the lighter side of life – creation, success, clarity, simple abundance, vitality.

In the Tarot, when the Fool reaches the Sun, he has reached his goal. He is exactly where he wants to be.

In the RWS deck, his achievement is symbolised by the red feather on his head on both cards and the sun in the sky, which has turned from white (beginning) to golden (completion):

In the Cosmic Faery Tarot, I have illustrated the Fool’s milestone as a seedling growing into a beautiful sunflower:

Working with the Sun, ask the following questions:

• What has come to fruition?

• What commitments have I made?

• What do I now understand?

• What can I celebrate today?

• What is making me happy right now?

The Sun is very much about living in the moment, the here and now.

Just for a change, there is no need to make plans or think about the future.

What is most important is to savour the present and just be.

The Sun’s energy is linked to various cards in the tarot, most notably the Ten of Swords (Sun in Gemini), which depicts quite profoundly the emergence from darkness into the light.

If you are curious about your own tarot journey and want to learn more, check out my courses and ebooks, and follow me on Ko-fi, where you can also grab some fab freebies.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

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