Eclipse Season + Mercury Retro = Spring Fever.
This week we continue to travel through the space between the lunar and solar eclipse. Fate lends a hand. But the path of destiny is not a straight line. Mercury retrograde arrives to remind us that the outcome of even the best laid plans is often not fully in our control. We must take a step back and reevaluate. Venus enters Aries, giving a fiery and direct expression to our passions and values. We connect with what lights us up and makes us feel empowered.
Weekly Collective Reading 3/31 - 4/6/24
This week, I wanted to do something different with the weekly spread. I pulled a card from the Dream Symbols Oracle, and then went to the guidebook page for that card. For most of my decks, I offer a set of three reflection questions for each card in the deck. These can be used for journaling or for developing a card spread.
From the Dream Symbols Oracle Guidebook:
How can I foster a sense of harmony and rhythm in my life?
High Priestess / Intuition + Ships
A spiritual practice will help disperse the forceful and erratic energy of springtime. Ground yourself in a routine that makes you feel connected and centered. Gentle movement such as yoga or walking can help channel excess energy and allow time for meditation and relaxation. Tune in to your inner self. What wisdom is whispered there? When the storms of uncertainty are overwhelming, try to quiet your mind and turn inward for feelings of peace and calmer waters.
What will help me cultivate a sense of inner balance?
Five of Cups / Regret + Hands
Let go of things that are not in your control. Mistakes happen, things break down and systems fail. But these things are not always your responsibility. There is not always an identifiable reason why things don’t work out as planned or desired. Take time to consider what things truly are out of your hands, and adjust your approach accordingly. Try directing your energy toward those activities where you may actively make an impact.
Where do I need to be more confident in my self expression?
Two of Swords / Choice + Ocean
Sometimes, we are tempted to minimize our desires in order to fit in, to seem more reasonable, or to avoid being an inconvenience. While there are times when this may be necessary, it is also good to consider those opportunities where you can freely express your preference. Be that in your clothing, food choices, work schedule, etc. Look for the opportunity to align your actions with your true desires. When you are able to, go with what your gut tells you is right.
Decks: Spirit Garden Tarot and the Dream Symbols Oracle.
Mercury Retrograde
On Monday, Mercury will begin a retrograde phase that continues until April 26. There is always potential for miscommunication, travel delay, and technology network issues during this transit. Let things unfold as they may, and don’t let setbacks frustrate or annoy you. Try to take things in stride, yet have a backup plan ready to go. Use this spread to explore the energy of this transit.
Venus enters Aries
On Friday 4/5, Venus enters Aries and begins a new cycle of travel through the signs of the zodiac. Use this spread to connect with a spark of excitement and consider what will help you take the lead in ways that feel significant to you.
From The Studio
This week I continued to work on the guidebook for the Secret Garden Oracle. I also spent some time on the “1969” oracle. The magazines used for the collage art actually span the rage of 1968-1972. I wasn’t happy with the design, and I’m still working on it, but I changed the font and removed the flower graphic embellishment:
Before
After
Still not quite sure where I’m going with this one! I feel like the art is kind of weird and subversive, almost dark, and I want an ironic contrast between the collage and the graphic design element. So the text and any other design I put on top should be bright and “groovy!” I still haven’t hit on quite the right quality yet. Experimentation continues!