Musing Mystical

Riding the Cosmic Cycle, by Cariabella

Riding the Cosmic Cycle:
How Navigating the Wheel of Fortune Makes You the Magician

Working with the Tarot can clear subconscious blockages and catalyze deep spiritual growth, ultimately leading to personal fulfillment and the manifestation of your material desires.

To achieve this spiritual awakening, we can view the Major Arcana in two distinct phases. First, the cards from The Magician to The Hermit represent the conscious goals we strive to reach. Second, the cards from The Wheel of Fortune to The Moon represent the profound process of shadow work.

In this article, we will explore how navigating the lessons of The Wheel ultimately leads us back to the mastery of The Magician—which is precisely where our journey begins.

We’ve all been there. You wake up on top of the world, ready to conquer the day. Then, an unpleasant interaction occurs—someone speaks to you rudely, or a sudden crisis disrupts your reality—and your mood plummets. You spend the rest of the day ruminating, replaying the scenario until you are mentally and emotionally exhausted. Just like that, a single external moment has hijacked your consciousness and drained your vital energy.

When this happens, you are being tossed around on the chaotic outer rim of The Wheel of Fortune.

Many people spend their entire lives reacting to the spin of this wheel, completely unaware that this chaotic rotation is actually the first step in necessary shadow work and inner transformation. The ultimate goal of the self-awakening paradigm is to move from the helpless spinning of the Wheel to the absolute mastery of The Magician.

But how do we bridge that gap? The secret lies in a precise, three-step psychological and spiritual process of assessing and balancing the four core elements of our psyche.

Step 1: Accept the Reality of the Spin

The first step is a shift in perspective. The Wheel of Fortune represents the eternal truth that change is the only constant. It illustrates a simultaneous descent and ascent: as the wheel rotates, what is on top moves downward, and what is below moves upward.

This continuous flow is governed by a hidden spiritual law woven into nature, famously spelled out by the letters on the wheel itself: ROTA TARO ORAT TORA ATOR (“The Wheel of Tarot speaks the Law of Hathor”).

Look closely at the card’s symbology:

On the right, a yellow serpent descends, expressing divine will in action. It reminds us that everything happening to you is happening for a reason—to make you grow spiritually.
On the left, Hermanubis ascends, symbolizing the evolution of human consciousness from lower to higher states.

Every time you stop fighting the external rotation and instead choose to overcome the event, your consciousness expands and you become stronger from within.

Step 2: The Four-Element Trigger Audit

When something happens that triggers you, the instinctual response is to react blindly. The spiritual path demands that you pause, recognize the trigger, and analyze how it is affecting the four classical elements within your psyche.

On the Wheel of Fortune card, these are represented by the Hebrew letters of the Tetragrammaton (Yod, Heh, Vav, Heh) on the outer circle, as well as the four mystical creatures in the corners. Carl Jung beautifully mapped these four elements onto the foundational cognitive functions of the human mind.

When a crisis hits, perform a sudden audit of these four areas:

• Earth (Sensation / Final Heh): How is your connection to the physical world? Are your five senses overwhelmed? Is your body physically tense or grounded?
• Water (Feeling / Heh): What does your emotional landscape look like? How is this event threatening your internal values or interpersonal relationships?
• Air (Thinking / Vav): Is your logic and intellect spinning out of control? Are you trapped in an obsessive, rationalizing mind-loop, or can you look at the problem with objective analysis?
• Fire (Intuition / Yod): Have you lost your connection to your higher vision and inspiration? What do your gut feelings and spontaneous understandings tell you about the future possibilities of this situation?

By stepping back to observe and categorize your reaction, you take the first step toward self-consciousness—the objective, directing part of the mind.

Step 3: Step Into the Center and Run the Alchemy

At the center of the wheel rests the symbols for Mercury, Sulphur, Water, and Salt—the universal mechanics of alchemical transformation. Water, in particular, represents dissolution: the necessary breaking down of our rigid ego structures.

To move from the spinning rim to the still center of the wheel, you must consciously undergo the four primary psychological phases of Carl Jung’s alchemical Magnum Opus (Great Work):

Nigredo (The Blackening): You confront your Shadow. Instead of distracting yourself from the trigger, you face the painful breakdown, the darkness, and the repressed trauma head-on.
Albedo (The Whitening): The stage of purification and catharsis. You bring objective detachment and balance, sorting through your inner polarities.
Citrinitas (The Yellowing): The dawn of higher consciousness. You become illuminated by wisdom, insight, and true spiritual awakening.
Rubedo (The Reddening): The final synthesis where conscious and unconscious aspects permanently unite, culminating in the realization of the True Self.

The Result: Becoming The Magician

When you balance the four elements by undergoing this rigorous alchemical process, you achieve the metaphorical “Fifth Element”—the unified, awakened Self. This state of integration is represented on the Wheel of Fortune card by the Sphinx seated majestically and immutably at the very apex of the wheel.

By mastering the elements, you step off the wheel of reaction and step into the card of The Magician.

The Magician doesn’t get tossed around by external circumstances because he possesses absolute mastery over his mind. You unlock the iconic posture of the Magician: one hand raised aloft holding a wand toward the heavens, the other pointing down to the earth.

You embody the ancient Hermetic axiom: “As above, so below.” You realize you are a divine conduit—a messenger through whom higher spiritual energy flows down into material reality. You possess the active agency to direct cosmic energy to manifest your desires.

The Endless Cycle of Renewal

This spiritual alignment is never a static, “one-and-done” achievement. It is a lifelong, ongoing practice. This continuous evolution is vividly illustrated by the Ouroboros—the serpent biting its own tail clasped around the Magician’s waist.

It reminds us that creation, destruction, and renewal are eternal. To stay in your power, you must continually shed your old skins, letting the ego dissolve so your highest Self can be perpetually reborn.

Stop fighting the spin of the wheel. Embrace the rotation, audit your triggers, run your inner alchemy, and step into your true power as the conscious creator of your reality.

The John Dee Oracle, by John Matthews and Will Kinghan

The John Dee Oracle: Wisdom from Queen Elizabeth’s Magician, by John Matthews with illustrations by Will Kinghan
REDFeather, 0764369768, 112 pages, 29 cards, September 2025

John Matthews’ The John Dee Oracle: Wisdom from Queen Elizabeth’s Magician, illustrated by Will Kinghan, is a fascinating and highly specialized divinatory work that draws readers into the intellectual, magical, and symbolic universe of one of the Renaissance’s most enigmatic figures. John Dee—astrologer, mathematician, alchemist, historian, advisor to Queen Elizabeth I, and architect of a vast esoteric system—has long occupied a singular place in Western occult history. This oracle seeks to translate that world into a modern tool for contemplation and guidance, and in many respects, it succeeds admirably.

From the outset, this set distinguishes itself through atmosphere and scholarship. The presentation is elegant and historically evocative with a handsome box design that reflects the Renaissance palette of parchment, crimson, and gold. Included with the deck is a folded reading diagram based on the four watchtowers, a visual element that immediately signals that this is not a casual or generic oracle, but one grounded in a very specific magical worldview. The accompanying guidebook further reinforces this impression, offering not only card meanings but substantial historical and symbolic context.

The cards themselves are beautifully produced. Each image is framed by the Enochian alphabet, instantly establishing the deck’s connection to Dee’s angelic and ceremonial system. At the center of each card is a richly detailed illustration rendered in a woodcut inspired style that feels entirely appropriate to the period being invoked. The artwork by Will Kinghan captures the texture of Renaissance engraving and manuscript illustration while remaining clear and readable for modern users. There is a gravity to these images— an atmosphere of libraries, observatories, hidden chambers, royal courts, and sacred diagrams.

One of the deck’s greatest strengths is the density of symbolism embedded in its design. Planetary magic, alchemical process, sacred hierarchy, and esoteric correspondences are woven throughout the imagery and structure of the cards. Readers with a background in ceremonial magic, astrology, Renaissance occult philosophy, or Western esotericism will find layer upon layer to appreciate. This is not symbolism added for decoration; it is integral to the architecture of the oracle itself.

Matthews also deserves praise for the scholarly dimension of the guidebook. His historical treatment of John Dee and the figures surrounding him adds depth and humanity to what could otherwise remain abstract. The presence of Queen Elizabeth I—Gloriana within the deck’s symbolic language—along with other notable historical personalities, gives the oracle a lived historical texture. Rather than presenting Dee as a mythic stereotype, the book situates him within the political, intellectual, and spiritual currents of his time.

Especially noteworthy is the inclusion of Dee’s original Enochian Calls in a new translation by Matthews. This alone gives the set value beyond divination. Readers interested in primary-source inspired esotericism, textual history, or ceremonial tradition will find this material deeply engaging. Matthews has long been respected for his work with mythic and magical source texts, and that experience is evident here.

Where this oracle may divide readers is in its practical accessibility. Unlike many modern oracle decks that encourage broad intuitive use through multiple layouts and flexible daily draws, The John Dee Oracle is more precise and structured in its application. Its method of consultation is rooted in the logic of Dee’s own system, where order, placement, hierarchy, and timing matter. Contextually, this makes complete sense. Dee’s world was not one of casual inspiration cards, but of disciplined inquiry into cosmic law and divine intelligence.

However, for the average everyday user seeking a quick, fluid, or emotionally oriented oracle experience, the deck may feel more formal and less immediately adaptable. Its use is better compared to consulting a specialized instrument than pulling a daily affirmation card. This is a deck one reaches for with intention during significant questions, crossroads, periods of study, or moments requiring careful reflection. In that sense, it mirrors how Queen Elizabeth herself might have sought Dee’s counsel: not constantly, but strategically.

That limitation, however, is also part of the deck’s integrity. It does not dilute its source material in order to become universally marketable. Instead, it remains true to the spirit of Renaissance magic: exacting, symbolic, hierarchical, and profound. Readers willing to meet it on those terms will be richly rewarded.

Overall, The John Dee Oracle is an impressive achievement. It is beautiful, intellectually serious, historically rich, and spiritually distinctive. While it may not become an everyday deck for all readers, it stands as an exceptional collector’s piece and a deeply rewarding oracle for those drawn to alchemy, astrology, ceremonial magic, and the hidden traditions of the Renaissance. For students of John Dee and lovers of Western esotericism, it is not merely recommended, it is indispensable.

Celtic Elemental Tarot, by Ayn Cates Sullivan and Belle Crow duCray

Celtic Elemental Tarot, by Ayn Cates Sullivan and illustrated by Belle Crow duCray
Findhorn Press, 979-8888502808, 320 pages, December 2025

Ayn Cates Sullivan’s Celtic Elemental Tarot, beautifully illustrated by Belle Crow duCray, is a richly layered and thoughtfully crafted deck that offers far more than a standard tarot experience. Rooted in Celtic mythology, Arthurian legend, elemental wisdom, and spiritual symbolism, this deck invites readers into a living world of mystery, landscape, and sacred imagination. It is both a divinatory tool and an immersive journey into one of the most enduring spiritual and mythic traditions of the Western world.

From the moment the box is opened, the care and craftsmanship behind this set are evident. The presentation is elegant and substantial, with a sturdy lift-top box that feels designed for long-term use rather than disposable novelty. Inside, the deck is housed with intention and visual beauty, creating the sense that one is opening a treasured keepsake rather than simply another card set. The cards themselves are printed on quality cardstock with a satisfying weight and finish, durable enough for regular readings while still easy to handle and shuffle.

One of the most striking aesthetic choices is the use of bold white borders around the artwork. In many decks, borders can feel distracting or unnecessary, but here they serve an important visual purpose. They frame each image like a sacred icon or illuminated manuscript panel, allowing the artwork to stand out with clarity and reverence. The contrast between the vivid illustrations and the clean white space gives each card a timeless, gallery-like quality. Rather than limiting the images, the borders elevate them.

Belle Crow duCray’s artwork is one of the great strengths of this deck. Rendered with grace, symbolism, and meticulous attention to detail, the cards are filled with natural beauty, mythic presence, and spiritual atmosphere. Animals, plants, landscapes, seasonal cues, and sacred objects all contribute to a visual language that feels deeply connected to the land and to the unseen worlds of Celtic lore. The illustrations are not merely decorative—they are initiatory. Each card contains layers that reveal themselves over time, rewarding repeated use and contemplative study.

Especially impressive is the subtle integration of astrological symbolism throughout the deck. Rather than mechanically repeating familiar esoteric correspondences, the creators have reimagined these associations in ways that better reflect the card meanings and the Celtic worldview. This gives the deck an originality that feels intelligent rather than arbitrary. It demonstrates a willingness to honor tradition while allowing it to evolve through another cultural lens. Readers interested in astrology, symbolism, or comparative esotericism will find much to appreciate here.

The structure of the deck also offers fresh insight. While remaining recognizable to tarot readers, the system expands the Major Arcana into categories such as allies, challenges, virtues, and cosmic forces, while the Minor Arcana follows the elemental suits of Earth, Air, Water, and Fire. This elemental framework feels especially natural within a Celtic context, where land, weather, seasonal cycles, and the powers of nature are central to spiritual understanding. The result is a deck that feels coherent, purposeful, and alive.

Sullivan’s guidebook deserves special praise. At 318 pages, it is substantial enough to function as a standalone spiritual text in its own right. Far more than a booklet of keywords, it provides mythological background, symbolic interpretation, practical guidance, and multiple card spreads that encourage ongoing exploration. The inclusion of varied reading methods makes the deck highly usable for both beginners and advanced practitioners. Whether one seeks a daily draw, deeper pathworking, or a more ceremonial spread, the book offers meaningful ways to engage.

What makes Celtic Elemental Tarot particularly compelling is the depth of its atmosphere.This is not a superficial “theme deck” that borrows Celtic imagery for decoration. It feels informed by genuine reverence for the mythology, history, and spiritual imagination behind its source material. There is a palpable sense of place throughout the deck—the hills, forests, waters, and ancient stories of the Celtic lands seem to breathe through the cards. For those with ancestral ties to these traditions, the experience may feel especially resonant. For others, it offers an inviting gateway into a wisdom path centered on nature, courage, sovereignty, and sacred relationship with the world.

This deck will appeal to tarot readers, pagans, myth enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and anyone drawn to earth-based traditions. It is equally suited for divination, meditation, seasonal ritual, and devotional practice. It adds depth to readings not by complication, but by richness—bringing history, symbol, and spirit into meaningful conversation.

Overall, Celtic Elemental Tarot is a stunning achievement. It is beautiful in construction, profound in symbolism, generous in teaching, and deeply evocative in spirit. Few decks manage to feel this expansive while remaining practical and accessible. For anyone seeking a tarot deck infused with mythic intelligence, natural spirituality, and artistic excellence, this is a remarkable and welcome addition to the tarot world.

Kate Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle, by Kate Forsyth

Kate Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle, by Kate Forsyth
Rockpool Publishing, 1923208136, 144 pages, 44 cards, May 2026

Hedgewitchery is a nature-based magical practice centered on cultivating a deep relationship with the land, the seasons, and the liminal spaces between the ordinary and the mystical. Rooted in folk traditions, it encourages practitioners to develop intuition, mindfulness, and a strong connection to the natural world through observation, herbal wisdom, divination, and everyday acts of magic. Kath Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle celebrates this craft, sharing wisdom and beauty in the cards.

Kath Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle is a 44-card oracle deck centered on magical herbs, folklore, and the hedgewitch tradition. Raised close to the Earth, Forsyth shares her knowledge about herbal magic, plant spirits, and folk witchcraft. Her skills as a storyteller ground the herbs in a wider context, inviting readers to truly develop an allyship with them.

The deck itself is absolutely gorgeous. The cards have a feeling of naturalist botanical art, where the plants are depicted with the accuracy and detail of a vintage field guide or herbal compendium. Every leaf, flower, and stem appears carefully observed rather than stylized, showcasing its natural vitality and essence.

There’s a beautiful simplicity to the cards, as they’re all natural with no ornate symbols or extravagant patterns. The magic in the cards comes from the wildlife featured, giving the deck an animistic feeling. Meanwhile, the gentle energy of the cards still lends a bit of whimsy while remaining educational, contemplative, and rooted in traditional plant lore. The vivid colors and engaging detail make for an attractive addition to an altar space.

The depiction of animals or insects in nearly all the cards evoke the old belief that plants, animals, and spirits exist in relationship with one another. Plus, the animals are symbolic, adding to the layers of meaning for each card, such as an owl on the card Apple representing wisdom and the lady bug in the card Verbena for blessings. This is definitely a great deck for bird lovers, as there’s many cards with them!

As for the guidebook, Forsyth shares guidance on how to use the cards and provides a few spread options. The cards are grouped into four categories, which is indicated by the background color of the card’s image. They are as follows:

❁ Pink – Herbs for love, tenderness, strength and tranquility

❁ Yellow – Herbs for friendship, happiness, optimism and vitality

❁ Green – Herbs for fresh beginnings, healing, intuition and transformation

❁ Black – Herbs for banishing, guarding boundaries, mystery and shadow

This mixture of categories makes for a varied deck, offering meaningful insight into different facets of life. Each entry has the name of the herb, its scientific name, and the key word at top. Forsyth provides a one sentence meaning for the card and then a section about the wisdom of the card, which tells the historical use and folklore. The final section is “Spell of the Day” where Forsyth shares a magical way to use the plant, often including an incantation.

Most of the spells are easy to do with things on hand, though some might require a bit of material gathering. For instance, the spell for the card Comfrey suggests taking a bath with comfrey-infused oil and mineral salts, while the dandelion card calls for a yellow candle. What’s nice about the spells though is how Forsyth encourages collecting herbs from the wild. This isn’t something I usually do, but it has spurred me on to take more interest in where these herbs might be found locally, which will obviously differ by region.

And while Forsyth does offer a message for each card, in the style of a traditional oracle deck, I’ve found this deck to be more useful for the spellwork aspect than divination. I also think readers could definitely use the guidebook to enhance their herbalism knowledge without even needing to work directly with the cards. Though, it is so fun to do spreads and see if any themes emerge in regard to the different card categories. Sometimes, I even divide the cards into categories and specifically draw a card from one based on the type of magical support I am seeking.

So far all my readings have felt very aligned. A few days ago, I felt a bit of negative energy in my energy field, so I decided to pull a card. I got Sage, which Forsyth has given the keyword “Purification”¹ The meaning for the card reads:

“Every now and again you need to stop and take a moment to reflect on your life and yourself, take stock of what is beneficial to you and let go of anything that may be doing you harm.”²

I resonated with this, and it encouraged me to be proactive in assessing where the negativity was coming from and creating a boundary. The spell Forsyth shares is creating a smudge stick and using it while repeating an incantation. I plan on doing this soon!

Overall, Kate Forsyth’s Hedgewitch Oracle is great for readers who enjoy herbal magic, nature-based witchcraft, and working with plant allies. Forsyth’s approach to plants as both a folklorist and hedgewitch brings a unique combination: readers get the practical knowledge along with magical lore. By weaving spiritual practice into daily life, this deck fosters a sense of grounding and belonging, reminding us that magic is not separate from the world around us but woven into the rhythms of the living earth. I love the reverence she holds for the natural world as well as the enchanted well she invites readers to perceive these herbs.

The Book of Astrological Returns, by Theresa Reed

The Book of Astrological Returns: Your Complete Guide to Every Life Cycle from the Sun to Pluto, by Theresa Reed
Weiser Books, 157863900X, 240 pages, May 2026

Okay, astrology lovers! A new must-have read is here: The Book of Astrological Returns: Your Complete Guide to Every Life Cycle from the Sun to Pluto by Theresa Reed. I’ve truly never seen another book detail returns in this way, covering everything from Solar and Lunar returns to outer-planet cycles like Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto. It is the comprehensive guide we all need, providing step-by-step guidance and informative interpretations for discerning the energy of our planetary returns.

Did I immediately print out multiple return charts to analyze? Absolutely. Has my astrology practice been enhanced tenfold? You betcha! Am I now obsessed with a new astrology niche topic? You know it! And I am so utterly grateful for Reed for sharing her wisdom allowing for this deep-dive without having to take a course or attend a workshop. Seriously, I’m astounded by the generosity of her spirit, as this material truly takes one’s astrological knowledge to the next level.

Reed begins with a personal introduction to this topic and advice on how to use this book. “Part One; Astrology Basics: What You’ll Need to Know” then moves into the essential information needed to understand a return chart. Reed covers the components of the birth chart, explains what returns are, and then details her method for reading return charts. She gives special attention to the ascendent and moon, detailing the significances for all of the twelve signs. And then she adds an extra layer of interpretation, which is looking at the transit to the natal chart at the moment of the return. The final section in this part “Putting it all Together” is aimed at integration.

I would consider myself an advanced astrologer, and I had no problem following along with the technique Reed describes. I found her clarification of the methodology to be extremely effective, and therefore I feel even a beginner to intermediate astrologer would be able to make use of this book. Since I don’t usually give too much insight into returns, aside from looking at a general solar return chart around my birthday and occasionally checking my lunar return chart for more insight into the themes of my month, I found delving into this topic to be very engaging. As in, it took me over a month to write the review because every time I picked up this book I started to pull up charts, apply Reed’s methods, reflect on what happened during certain returns/transits, look at my current ones, and just overall go on a deep-dive.

And while there’s some books on solar returns, lunar returns, and Saturn returns, this is the first book I’ve encountered that goes beyond the popular returns and offers insight into all of the planets PLUS the lunar nodes and Chrion, which just feels like an exquisite bonus. Reed truly expands the lens to include all return cycles across a lifetime, emphasizing that astrology is cyclical and evolving.

“Part Two: Every Return from the Sun to Pluto” goes chapter by chapter through all the planetary returns, from the quick lunar return to the long-spanning Pluto return that we will not ever see in our lifetime but is significant from a historical point of view and can lend insight into the energies of our current times (Reed does an excellent job delving into the recent Pluto return of the United States).

For each return type, Reed has the same general chapter format. She provides an introduction to the return, offers an interpretation of the planet (luminary, node, dwarf planet – you get it!) in each house, covers easy and challenging aspects to all the other planets, and offers next steps to further understand that specific return. She also examines charts (there’s plenty of real life examples through the book) and offers astrocises (exercises for the reader to do) along with cosmic tips.

While it does require having a general astrological foundation (Reed doesn’t cover much about aspects, houses, how transits work, etc), the overall system she shares is pretty workable, especially with the question prompts she presents in the “next steps” section. For instance, when looking at a Mercury return chart, she leads readers through look at if Mercury is joined by other planets, examining the ascendent and where its ruler is in the chart, noting the moon sign and where the moon is, noticing the houses ruled by Gemini and Virgo, and so on. At this point the reader does need to utilize their own astrological knowledge to bring forth the interpretation, but the guidance makes it easy to move methodically and really get a full picture of the return chart.

My favorite thing about this book is Reed’s openness and writing style. She’s constantly sharing her own life experience and has a great sense of humor. Her storytelling brings the material to life, making the reader flow and feel like chatting with a friend as you learn. Her approachable, down to earth way of relating makes her a stellar author (I would absolutely check out her other works too, such as The Cards You’re Dealt and Twist Your Fate). Plus, she picks interesting things to talk about! With carte blanche creative prowess, the charts she picks out as examples are engaging. She examines the return chart of Toni Morrison, Al Capone, Elizabeth Taylor, and more.

As for Reed’s approach to astrology, it is more modern, which is fine by me! She doesn’t shy away from future forecasting, as we are indeed looking at the returns to see what’s ahead, but there is no Hellenistic predictive rigor (thank goodness). Instead, she takes a more psychological approach, using empowering language to frame the potential of transits and returns realistically. No, she doesn’t shy away from potential disasters (you should read about her recent Mars return!), but she also doesn’t heed fated calamity. The explanations are practical, leaving room for plenty of personal potential. I like when she writes:

“One of the things you’ll often hear me say is that astrology is theory. (In fact, I said that earlier in this book!). You can gaze at the stars all day long and predict how things might unfold, but sometimes, the outcome is different than expected. Human interpretation is funny that way.”²

I really resonate with this perspective. Who truly knows? The best we can do is examine the charts and be open to what emerges!

Overall, The Book of Astrological Returns fills a gap in astrology literature by bringing all the planetary return cycles into a cohesive framework that can easily be applied for readings. Rather than going to multiple books to gain insight on returns, Reed has created a one-stop-shop with a generous amount of astrological wisdom. The content is a reminder that astrology is not static; the planets are always moving and looking at the return charts is a great way to expand on timing techniques, understand our life cycles, and bring more awareness to the interplay between our current astrology and life experience.

I HIGHLY recommend this one for all levels of astrologers, especially those with intermediate skills and beyond, for the creative inspiration it will provide in regard to the many returns you will experience in life. This is one of those astrology books that is going to be referred back to time and time again.

Yoga Mudra Oracle, by Emma Wertheim and Stephen Denham

Yoga Mudra Oracle, by Emma Wertheim with illustrations by Stephen Denham
Sirius, 1398849863, 128 pages, 44 cards, March 2026

I am a huge proponent of connecting to the body’s wisdom, specifically through touch and movement. This concept is even what I wrote my master’s degree thesis on: the importance of including a kinesthetic approach to education. Yoga has been a steady practice for me to connect with my inner wisdom, but I don’t always have time to do a full series of poses. As soon as I saw the brightly colored Yoga Mudra Oracle by Emma Werthheim with illustrations by Stephen Denham, I was instantly intrigued! What insights might this deck reveal and could I embody it through my body?

The answer is yes, and it has beautiful messages too! This is a hands-on deck, quite literally offering mudra poses as well as meaningful guidance. This deck contains 44 mudra cards and a 128-page guidebook designed to bring ancient yogic hand gestures into contemporary spiritual practice.

While most oracle decks work through symbolism, intuition, and reflection, Yoga Mudra Oracle adds a physical component too with each card and invites readers to form a specific mudra with your hands while contemplating its message. Instead of simply receiving guidance, you’re asked to participate in it through gesture, breath, and awareness, deepening divination through embodiment. Needless to say, I’m obsessed!

For those new to mudras, Wertheim describes them as this:

“Yoga mudras are simple, sacred postures from an ancient yogic tradition. They permit you to redirect, shape and “seal” the flow of pranic energy within the body, which can unite us with cosmic intelligence and help manifest change on a physical and soul level.”³

An example of working with a mudra is at end of a yoga session when you put your hands together to “seal” the practice. I love the idea of intentionally encapsulating the energy within ourselves, creating a connection between mind, body, and spirit.

The artwork in this deck blends hand imagery, bright color fields, spiritual symbolism, and luminous energy depictions. The pair of hands on the cards are outlined in white, making it easy for the reader to copy the same pose. The aesthetic has a feeling of serenity, spaciousness, and energetic alignment. There’s a feeling of “containment” in each mudra, perfectly holding the energy of each gesture in a balanced way that brings the sensation inward for the reader to experience.

In addition to the mudras, there’s often a symbol that adds further intuitive resonance for the reader to gaze at while working with the card. I feel like this deck is perfect for both meditation as well as creating an altar space. It’s as though the dynamic energy of the mudra on each card gently radiates outward, infusing the reader with its energy through visual contemplation. The deck is also easy to hold in one’s palm and shuffles quite easily. I very much enjoy simply holding the deck and feeling its spiritual energy.

Rather than be numbered, at the bottom there is the name of the mudra. It’s up to the reader to find the entry in the guidebook for further oracle insight, but the entries are listed alphabetically, so it’s pretty easy to navigate. There’s also an index at the back if you don’t want to flip through and prefer finding an exact page number. While most of the mudras in the deck are traditional yoga ones, there are a few non-traditional ones that Wertheim intuited; she notes which ones these are so readers are aware when working with the deck.

The guidebook begins with an introduction by Wertheim, where she talks about her interest in mudras and the study she’s put into working with them. She then provides a very interesting introduction to mudras, explaining the vitality of the hands and ancients of this practice. I was fascinated to realize how “Similar to foot reflexology, all areas of the hands are thought to connect to corresponding organs, glands, nerves, and meridians throughout the body.”⁴. She presents mudras as an accessible way to work with energy, which is perfect for those of us who don’t always have the time for a longer practice.

Wertheim lays a great foundation for beginners in the guidebook too. She explains how to prepare your hands for mudra, how long to hold them, and what to do if one doesn’t resonate or your hand can’t hold the shape. She covers chakras. And there’s even guidance on preparing to work with the deck (cleansing, how to consult the deck, and layout options). All throughout, Wertheim’s tone is gentle and encouraging. While she’s clearly sharing her passion with readers, she also encourages everyone to do what works best for them, pausing to stop and enjoy the experience. I appreciate her dedication to making this deck useable for all, as well as her heartfelt consideration for readers’ experience.

As for the entries in the guidebook, they’re beautifully crafted. The title is in big letters and there’s an image of the card. Beneath is a subtitle, further explaining the card and keywords or symbolisms. It is here that Wetheim notes if the mudra has been intuited too. The opposite page explains the mudra—what it calls you to do or invites into your energy field. There’s also directions for how to do the mudra, which is helpful for people like me who like specific instructions. Finally, Werthiem includes an affirmation. Occasionally, there’s also a quote that reflects the energy of the mudra.

The first card I pulled when working with this deck was Naga Mudra, subtitled Goddess Rising. Instantly, I felt the activation just looking at the card. I had just come from meeting with a long-time spiritual mentor for the first time in person. I had connected with a great group of people and was really feeling my divine feminine leadership; I was still tingling from the experience. Aptly, this card immediately brought awareness to this fire burning within, noting “The energy is rising through your chakras now”.⁵ Wertheim further writes:

“The symbols used in this card—such as Naga (the snake goddess—represent wisdom, fertility, and creative force. The ancient Egyptians ankh symbol is known as “the key of life”. Fire represnts the pure fire of insight and the awakening of potent energy within you.”⁶

Not only did it feel aligned to draw this card, but it was so amazing to have the mudra to ground the energy. Holding the mudra channeled this energy throughout my body, infusing my spirit with it and embedding it in my physical form. Instantly, I was hooked on the power of mudras!

While all can enjoy the experience of connecting with their embodied wisdom through mudras, I highly recommend this deck to those who enjoy meditation, yoga, energy practices, or are seeking a unique oracle deck. This deck is a great one for attuning to the energy of the present moment, and I’ve enjoyed pulling a card before creating a ritual space to set the tone and find center. Pulling a card, holding the corresponding mudra, and sitting with the guidance for several minutes turns a reading into a contemplative practice.

Overall, Yoga Mudra Oracle does a wonderful job combining sacred mudra practice, oracle wisdom, and uplifting artwork to create a thoughtful spiritual tool that feels both modern and rooted in ancient traditions at the same time. The alignment that comes from working with the mudras is sensational. And Werthheim’s inspired wisdom is perfect for a gentle reading, one that encourages you to slow down and enter a contemplative state. This deck isn’t so much for knowing what’s to come but rather honoring what is appearing in the moment. The physical component with the energetic resonance makes for an impactful reading!

The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle, by Steve Denham

The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle: Timeless Guidance from the Ancient World, by Steve Denham
Sirius, 1398858072, 128 pages, 49 cards, January 2026

My favorite books and decks are ones where you can tell the author had a spiritual calling to put forth that work. From the moment I opened The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle, I knew this was going to be one of those special decks. This 49-card oracle deck by Steve Denham opens a pathway of wisdom or inner awakening and spiritual refinement based on the 7 Hermetic principles detailed in The Kybalion, a text written by the “Three Initiates” in 1908. Denham writes:

“Sifting through this manifesto, which harks back to the esoteric knowledge of ancient Egypt and purports to articulate the energetic laws that govern the universe, nature and human existence, I realized I had become privy to something quite extraordinary.”⁶

While The Kybalion was written in the 20th century, in the introduction, Denham explains how this Hermetic alchemy was popular during the Hellenistic era (323-331 BCE) during which Hermes Trismegistus contributed much to occult wisdom. Inspired by this Hermetic philosophy, Denham added his own creative touch, developing 7 intuitive messages for each of the 7 principles as well as meaningful artwork, to create this deck.

Visually, each card is laced with meaning. The artwork blends mystical compositions–images of the earth and space that highlight the limitlessness and expansiveness of universal mystery–with digitally layered sacred imagery. There is a symbolic arched gateway featured on every card, serving as a portal to the realms beyond. Denham explains, “the archways are like ‘keyholes’ or ‘doorways’ through which hidden worlds and dimensions become accessible.”⁷

The name and number of the card is detailed at the bottom. Each principle has its own symbol and color too, allowing readers to distinguish the card type quite easily when working with the deck. Even the back of the card has significance, which Denham describes as a “Master Key”⁸ symbolized by the crossed keys of Hermetic alchemy.

While the cards themselves are tantalizing and engaging, it was really the guidebook that illuminated the full spectrum of use for this deck. In addition to the details already shared, Denham also teaches readers how to use the deck, likening it to a magic carpet ride through dimensions. He shares spreads and guidance for interpretation as well. My favorite part of Denham’s reading approach is inviting the reader to bring in love to engage with the principles, infusing the deck with this potent energy to be the “eighth” key.

The rest of the guidebook is sorted by principle. At the start of each one, Denham shares an overview of it and how it comes through in The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle. Just like the deck itself, all the pages of each principle are color-coded, making it easy to flip through and find the card message you’re seeking. The entries all feature an image of the card, a description of the card, a one-sentence directive, and questions to reflect upon.

The messages are definitely metaphysical. This is a deck to contemplate a meaningful philosophy and see how the principles can inform your current situation. Compared to other oracle decks, this one invites more cerebral engagement, though gazing at the cards can also lead to a symbolic awakening too.

I think readers who are dedicated to working with this system long-term would reap the most benefit, as it feels like an initiatory deck to me. Yes, there’s an intuitive aspect to working with the cards where you can do a daily draw, but the deck also operates as a unified symbolic worldview to explore over a period of time. There’s many facets and dimensions to it that could honestly take years to explore, particularly if you want to go deep into the alchemical symbolism.

As for me, I apparently am doing some intense energy work relating to the fifth principle: Rhythm. Every single card I have pulled (and I’ve done at least 6 one-card draws) have been Rhythm ones! Specifically, I’ve pulled the card “Change Your Rhythm” multiple times.

This card relates specifically to the “connection between being and breathing”⁹. I find this really interesting as, embarrassed as I am to admit, I’ve developed a bit of a nervous tick recently from being so stressed. The only way I’ve found to be more conscious of it and ease it away is through pausing to breathe, which I never would have thought to do if I wasn’t pulling this card over and over. For this card, Denham writes:

“To expand what you are seeing and feeling – stop, come to stillness, change your rhythm.”¹⁰

The question posed for this card relates to habitual behavior and negative thinking too, further revealing that I need to focus on my breathing to overcome the perpetual loop in my mind, causing me enough distress to have an unconscious tick now, which is popping my jaw by the way! Attuning to the principle Rhythm is a great reminder to let things flow. I can release control, be present, and shift the way I move through my life.

I am looking forward to eventually exploring the other principles more deeply, but for now, I am trusting that working with this one specifically and intentionally will have the most meaningful impact.

Overall, The Egyptian Alchemy Oracle opens new doorways for readers to explore metaphysical realms and discover a map for transformation rooted in a seasoned spiritual framework. Those who are interested in Hermetic philosophy, particularly The Kybalion, benefit from the integrative ways Denham has provided fine-tuned interpretations of the principles to carry messages through this deck that can be practically applied to one’s life. Working with this deck has grounded the symbolism and esoteric wisdom in a new way for me, making it much more engaging and able to be contemplated and connected with.

While the traditional oracle reader can certainly glean meaningful insight from this deck, I recommend it more for those seeking a more structured system to immerse themselves in. The combination of alchemy, symbolic initiation, and contemplative depth overlaps naturally with the kind of integrative spiritual work those who are interested in metaphysical discourse and soulful transformation will gravitate towards. Those who are philosophers at heart will enjoy Denham’s insightful presentation of the 7 Hermetic principles and appreciate the initiatory nature of this deck.

Paranormal Perspectives: PARA∙NORMALITY, by Kieran Stanislaw Mace

Paranormal Perspectives: PARA∙NORMALITY: Normalising the Paranormal, by Kieran Stanislaw Mace
6th Books, 1917704119, 128 pages, March 2026

It’s hard enough to figure out how to “live” accordingly to secure our basic human needs, but try throwing in paranormal encounters too that leave you questioning the nature of reality and just what the heck is going on! This is the predicament Kieran Stanislaw Mace shares Paranormal Perspectives: PARA∙NORMALITY: Normalising the Paranormal. Written with honesty and emotional sincerity, Mace shares his life journey and all paranormal moments that finally lead him to embrace the veiled reality existing concurrent to our own.

This book sits somewhere between a spiritual autobiography, paranormal testimony, and exploration of consciousness. Mace writes candidly about his life, not only the pivotable moments but the mundane day to day that blend together his on-going paranormal experiences with ordinary life, showing they are not two different paths, but a unified life journey. From his childhood trauma, including a near-death experience after a hit-and-run accident to the bullying, grief, and years of suppressing experiences that made him feel alienated, he brings forth a dialogue about the paranormal with this book.

Just how do you live with such extraordinary experiences happening when you are not sure how to define the events or who to turn to for advice? Unsurprisingly, you struggle quite a bit! And this is what makes this memoir quite captivating. This is NOT a book about a famed professional who “just knew” from the get-go how to converse with the entities on the other side of the veil; this is the story of a person thrown into the turbulent flow of life, a near-death-experience in childhood, earning an education, holding down a job to pay bills, finding love, having children, and still navigating the paranormal circumstances that have plagued him since childhood.

Despite Mace experiencing visions, synchronicities, hauntings, out-of-body experience, intuitive knowings, and encounters with spiritual entities, he had to fit into accepted reality. With this book, he works to break down the stigma of the paranormal and showcase how these experiences could truly happen to anyone, even an ordinary guy like himself. Mace doesn’t set out to prove anything, he just is sharing his own perspective and opening up a door for readers to reconsider the boundaries of reality.

Here’s an excerpt that I think characterizes Mace’s internal dialogue, intention for the book, and experience quite well:

“My observation supports the idea that negative energy affects the activity around us, just like during my grumpy teenage years, the sadness of losing my cat, or the anger of a miseducated manager. Maybe if I could switch my energies to emit positivity, perhaps that could affect the world in a different way. After all, every particle in the universe vibrates, bound by an energy that unifies to hold this universe in place. If we can change the frequency we emit, what happens? ‘Lie down, Kieran, you are not meant to question these things.’ That is what my programming said. When people begin to question the world that is laid out for them, they are often labelled as weird and people choose to move to sit at a different lunch table. Why is it so scary that people are forced to look down?”¹⁰

By presenting all his shortcomings and obstacles along the way, Mace’s intimate, earnest, emotional vulnerability becomes fodder for spiritual exploration of others. He is consistently reflective, offering possibilities rather than hard facts, inviting dialogue rather than argument. And for this, Mace brings to light an important aspect of paranormal experience: many people privately experience phenomena they fear discussing due to ridicule or social pressure. In having the courage to say, “I went through this”, “At times my mental health was not good.”, “I was lost and confused.”, others gain the ability to be more forthcoming about their own journey, a reminder that they are not alone.

Overall, for readers interested in psychic phenomena, hauntings, alter states, spiritual entities, and more, Paranormal Perspectives: PARA∙NORMALITY will be resonant. Mace’s memoir-driven spiritual writing and paranormal narratives rooted in personal transformation is an interesting read. Mace being so forthcoming about his experience makes for a great addition to the Paranormal Perspectives series to further provide food for thought to readers with an interest in this subject.

Ancient Spells and Incantations, by Enid Baxter Ryce

Ancient Spells and Incantations: Echoes of Magic Through the Ages and Across Cultures, by Enid Baxter Ryce
Weiser Books, 1578639026, 208 pages, April 2026

A few months ago, I was reading BonaDea’s Book of Everyday Enchantments by Patricia deSandro about creating your own enchantments. DeSandro explained how this produces an energy that was unique to the situation for which we were doing the spell. In contrast, she also talked about how when we use spells written by others, especially those used by many in a ritual fashion, we tap into the lineage, ancestry, and magical potency of those who also have worked the spell. This is something that stuck in my mind, a reminder that there’s magical depth and breadth to be discovered by seeking out ancient spells, chants, and hymns.

Did I personally have the time to do this though? Absolutely not! And it is for this reason that I was quite excited to read Ancient Spells and Incantations: Echoes of Magic Through the Ages and Across Cultures by Enid Baxter Ryce. This curated archive of magical memory draws from grimoires, church records, letters, and ancient fragments across cultures to create a nifty collection of magical texts to have on hand. The way it reads is like a poetic collection of historical magic, allowing readers to flip through and discover enchantments that otherwise likely would have been lost to time.

“As we marvel at these ancient magical words, we think of our ancestors. Thanks to them, scraps of papyrus, shards of pottery, secret books, and whispered recipes will still show themselves to those who seek them.”¹¹

To write this book, Ryce utilized a variety of sources. She dove into libraries, archives, along with museum collections and databases. There’s a whole list of the magical texts shared in the book for those who are seeking to do their own research. Ryce explains how she consulted scholarly and popular books about ancient magic and also read about the context the magical spells were written, which are shared in the extensive bibliography. Some of the works she translated herself, but for languages she wasn’t familiar with, she used digital resources to translate that were then checked against scholarly translations.

I found her overall process interesting, about which she writes, “To create these contemporary interpretations, I stayed close to the intended meanings of the ancient incantations. After translating, I revised the language and rhythms, aiming for clarity, simplicity, and poetic impact.”¹²

There are five chapters, each focusing on a magical theme: manifesting and prophecy, love and lust, protection, healing, and curses, bindings, and vengeance. Additionally, Ryce includes an introduction about the written history of magic, which aptly sets the stage for what’s to come.

Aside from the general theme, there’s no real organization to the order of the spells, but there is a nice flow. Most of the spells are applicable to modern life, while others are just fun to read, such as the Mayan “Cure for Red Spider Monkey Gums (Pyorrhea)”. There’s incantations for protection from witches, as well as a spell to conjure the devils to bring love to you. There’s no telling what the next page will bring once you flip it!

This said, Ancient Spells and Incantations is definitely better suited for those with an eclectic practice that feel comfortable working with a wide range of deities across time and space. In just a few pages, the entries move from Thebes in the 12th century to China in 1200 BCE to Egypt 2nd Century BCE. There’s texts from the Scottish Highlands to traditional Yourba. In another few pages, a Babylonian text, Buddhist text, Lakota proverb, and Akkadian Magic Literature all come together to create quite an interesting mix.

All that Ryce shares is the text itself, so there’s no context about how these verses would be used in spellwork based on the lineage’s time and place. So for each chapter, it’s almost like reading a bunch of poems (in many ways that’s what spells and incantations are, right?!) related to a theme.

In regard to actually using the text, readers would have to be okay with creating their own rituals. For this purpose, Ryce includes a chapter towards the end called “Beginning a Magical Practice” where she covers working with words and objects, traditional spellcasting objects and color meanings, powerful places, and names and numbers.

Her guidance, along with my own background, would definitely be enough to piece together a ritual, but for those who prefer to create deep bonds with the lineages they work with before delving into ritual or spellwork, this book might better serve an anthropological curiosity. Similarly, for those who prefer spell craft with step-by-step instructions, this book might feel a bit too literary. Given Ryce’s multidisciplinary background in art, film, poetry, there’s no doubt her artistic sensibility has shaped the book to be a potent creative force in its own right. It can easily be enjoyed without having to perform any of the magic within.

Also worth noting, in an age where people can be quick to condone cultural appropriation, this book does not claim to be of any lineage. Ryce is a scholar, a seeker, and archivist. It’s clear she appreciates the living thread of magic woven through human history within these texts. While most of the book is simply the spells or incarnations, when Ryce does share information, her tone is always reverent, informative, and devoted to preserving the sanctity of the text. This book is done in service of magical history, allowing for these texts to be seen and valued in our modern world.

Overall, Ryce’s collection of incantations and spells inspire contemplation, bring a special energetic atmosphere to spell work, and invite intuitive connection with the past. Drawing from many traditions, Ancient Spells and Incantations is a offers snippets of occult history still relevant and useful for spellcrafting today. I quite enjoy the variety of content and I am impressed by Ryce’s artistic process in the creation of this book.

Whether you want to imbue sacred objects with these spells or chant them outloud for your magical workings, the content gives a potent, ancient foundation to start from. I’m so glad Ryce has brought these spells and incantations to print, translating them for the modern reader and lifting them out of the dusty archives of the past to fill the spells with fresh energy. A very cool and unique read!

Friendship Oracle, by Helena Elias

Friendship Oracle: Celebrating Connections, by Helena Elias
Rockpool Publishing, 1922468061, 36 cards, 128 pages, May 2026

Friendship Oracle by Helena Elias is a beautifully tender oracle deck that centers something often overlooked in spiritual tools: friendship as a sacred force. This deck brings connection, mutual care, emotional reciprocity, and the quiet magic of growing alongside others to the realm of divination–something new for me even with over ten years of reading experience!

I was immediately drawn into this deck because of the artwork. Elias hand drew each one on digital canvas, and the level of detail is truly impressive. The deck is a nice blend of enchanted femininity, cottagecore mysticism, and emotionally rich whimsical illustration. Flower crowns, natural textures, fairy wings, flowing dresses, and woodland imagery evoke a whimsical energy, honoring the beauty of the natural world.

All the imagery feels soft, nurturing, and deeply heartfelt. I love the warm, glowing color palettes, which lean into luminous golds, rose pinks, forest greens, deep burgundies, and moonlit ambers. Women and nature are one in this deck where flowers, forests, animals, and celestial imagery aren’t just decoration; they mirror the emotional tone of each card.

Many of the people are depicted in a semi-realistic fantasy style, featuring delicate detailing, glowing skin, flowing hair, and expressive faces that capture the emotional expansiveness this deck offers. Many of the cards emphasize a sacred sisterhood relationship filled with emotional intimacy, care, and connection between women across ages and identities, which is just beautiful to see come to life during a reading.

As for the guidebook, Elias provides a great perspective on friendship. For each card, there’s a meaning shared and a sowing intention ritual that offers a nature-inspired way to integrate the energy of the card. For instance, the sowing intention for the card Reach Out reads:

“Seek out flowers, paying attention to any buzzing bees nearby. Take time to exist in the present, and see if watching the bees and their path brings anyone to mind.”¹³

I thought that was such a great idea for tuning into who might need you to reach out! Similar to this buzzing advice, the whole guidebook feels thoughtful and intentional. There’s a good mixture of self-care mixed into the relationship-tending oracle advice too. As most know, it can be hard to figure out what to do when a friendship hits a bump in the road; sometimes the balm is more time alone, while other times it requires extra attention to heal. This advice in the guidebook covers the range of phases friendships move through, offering meaningful guidance for reflection.

At first, I wasn’t sure what kinds of questions to ask, as I don’t usually do readings about my friendships. Romantic life? Definitely. Career and money? Quite often. Family life? For sure. But my friendships?! Rarely! But then I started to think about my different friendships and get curious about what insight the deck has to share. Each reading so far has been very energetically spot on and informative for me. Here’s some examples:

I recently got back in touch with a woman who was my best friend from the age of 10 through 25–one of closest friendships I’ve ever had in my life. During our mid-twenties, life pulled us apart, placing us on different paths. There was never a fight, just relocations that reoriented our lifestyles: new friendships, new jobs, new relationships. Despite thinking about her regularly, nearly ten years had passed since we talked; with each passing year it seemed harder to bridge the gap. But then when I found out her mom passed away last month, I reached out. We ended up having a great conversation about where we are in life now, opening a doorway to a renewed friendship.

I decided to pull a card about this situation with her, and I got Soulmate! Here’s part of what Elias has written for this card:

“This is a reminder to honour those friendships that make your soul feel at home. You may be entering a time where you need each others’ strength and unconditional support. If your guiding star has been distant, perhaps this is the moment to reach out, to remind them that their light still shines in your sky.”¹⁴

This message was so validating that I did the right thing in rekindling our friendship. It highlighted for me just how valuable this rare such a soulful bond with another person is, and that I should embrace it once again.

Another reading I did was about a friend that I have known for decades but I don’t feel a deep connection to recently; our friendship seems based more on convenience than shared passions or interest. The card I got was Seeker. The first sentences of the guidebook entry made my jaw drop:

“There are times in life when our connections do not bear the fruit we anticipated. You may be at a point where you need to look outside your current garden of friends – not seeking to replace but instead to connect with those who match your current life path.”¹⁵

This message really resonated with me. I still value, love, and and appreciate this friendship, but it’s also okay for me to expand my circle to find those who feel more aligned.

Overall, Friendship Oracle feels like a refreshing addition to the oracle space. Its heartfelt messages, visually enchanting cards, and spiritual focus on the healing power of human connection make it a one-of-a-kind deck. Elias reminds us that friendship is not something casual, but rather the roots of some of our most sacred bonds that require reflection, honesty, communication, and renewal.

This deck is perfect for journaling with, doing relationship check-ins, or even working with in a community-centered spiritual practice such as a women’s circle. The emotionally nourishing and mystical nature of the deck revives the spirit and brings a clarity to our defining relationships. I really would love to see more decks from Elias!!