Musing Mystical

✨ A Gathering Place for Magical Readers and Writers ✨

Land Healing, by Dana O’Driscoll

Land Healing: Physical, Metaphysical, and Ritual Practices for Healing the Earth, by Dana O’Driscoll
REDFeather, 0764367706, 208 pages,  March 2024

Land Healing: Physical, Metaphysical, and Ritual Practices for Healing the Earth by Dana O’Driscoll is a comprehensive guide to land healing for neopagans and earth-based spiritual practitioners. Drawing on her decades of experience as a land healer, O’Driscoll offers readers an opportunity to deepen their understanding of ecological stewardship and personal spiritual growth through a flexible framework that’s easy to adapt to one’s lifestyle. The book covers a wide range of topics, including physical land healing, metaphysical healing techniques, and spiritual self-care. 

O’Driscoll is a wonderful guide on the path to becoming a land healer, and her writing in this book is thoughtfully insightful. Since 2019, she has served as Grand Archdruid in the Ancient Order of Druids in America. She is also a certified permaculture designer and permaculture teacher. She successfully weaves in so much information to this book while keeping the reader grounded and centered to integrate the wisdom.

The book begins with an introduction to land healing, sharing with readers why it’s so important right now in our anthropocentric time period to heed the call of tending to the land. O’Driscoll takes the time to explain the foundation of beliefs shared in this book, such as animism, energy-work, and magic, along with how these metaphysic practices can be incorporated into the ecosystems of the physical world.

For those ready to undertake being a land healer, O’Driscoll starts from step one of gathering the necessary supplies. She shares how to make one’s own “Crane Bag” so that one always has the supplies necessary to work with the land in whatever capacity is called for at the moment. There are seven main methods of land interaction she prepared readers to engage in: blessing, growth, healing, protection, sleep, acknowledgement, and passage. Each landscape one works with will require different types of healing, and learning these seven is a great way to get started.

One of the central themes in Land Healing is the concept of reciprocity. O’Driscoll emphasizes the importance of a reciprocal relationship with the earth, where land healers open themselves to commune with the land on the land’s terms rather than their own whims or desires.  There’s an emphasis on forming an intentional relationship with the land before doing any work.

Some land might be very open to the land healer’s desire to work with it, while other land needs time to warm up. Occasionally, land might even refute any efforts of the land healer, and it’s important to honor the land’s decision. O’Driscoll teaches readers how to acknowledge, witness, and apologize to the land–a great first step in building a relationship based on trust and respect. Additionally, she shares the importance of remembrance in this work, honoring what was before as a powerful act of healing.

Readers gain a lot of insight about how to work with the different needs of the land energetically in chapters four through six, where O’Driscoll teaches about the seven elements (four classical elements–fire, air, water, earth–and three spirit aspects–above, below, within). She offers a variety of methods to perform energy work on the land, including sigils, virtualization, meditation, energy work, chanting, creating mandalas, and smoke prayers, depending on the needs of the land.

This was the first book I’ve read on the topic that acknowledged some land might prefer to go into a deep slumber to rest during trauma. Land healers can offer palliative care for land that is too damaged to be fully restored or “energetically awake and suffering”1. I found the chapter on energetic palliative care quite touching, and it made me feel more deeply into the consciousness of different lands.

Later in the book, there’s a chapter about working with plants and animals that have passed on, and I found it very holistic for O’Driscoll to include this too, as it’s not just the land that suffers in the wake of environmental destruction. For those who feel called and ready, she shares a bit about psychopomp work that can be done to help these living entities transition from life to death, as well as rituals to honor those that have passed on.

O’Driscoll’s knowledge of permaculture and ecology shines through in the one chapter about physical land healing. This chapter offers practical advice about how one can get to know their ecosystems better. From studying the plants to engaging in conservation work, there’s plenty of local ways one can get involved with the lands around them. O’Driscoll shares a bit about permaculture, creating wildlife refugia, and the often-overlooked practice of wild-tending as further ways readers can engage physically with the land.

Beyond specific energetic and physical techniques, O’Driscoll emphasizes the importance of the healer’s own spiritual well-being.  The final chapter focuses on self-care and suggests land healers create a self-care plan for themselves when doing this work. The stress of witnessing ecological crises, offering our energy to the land in the form of blessings and healing, or even just basic life stuff that crops up all can take its toll on the well-being of a practitioner. I love that O’Driscoll cares deeply enough for readers to fortify them with wonderful suggestions about how to care for one’s mind, body, and spirit.

Overall, Land Healing is a practical guide for hands-on ways readers can cultivate their practice of engaging with the land physically and energetically to promote ecological well-being. The techniques shared by O’Driscoll promote a deep understanding of the spiritual and energetic dimensions of our relationship with the land. Anyone interested in deepening their relationship with the earth and taking an active role in its healing, particularly those who follow a nature-based spiritual path, will find all they need to begin their own journey of land healing within this book.

While many might set out to heal nature, in turn, I have no doubt they will discover the healing power of nature through this work.  O’Driscoll illustrates how engaging with the natural world can be a transformative experience, offering physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. And one of the best things about this book is how she shares personal anecdotes and practical exercises that encourage readers to embrace nature as a source of solace and inspiration.

Through a combination of ecological wisdom and spiritual insight, O’Driscoll invites readers to embark on a journey of healing—for themselves and the planet. Land Healing is a valuable resource for those seeking to deepen their relationship with the natural world and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Stars, Cards, and Stones, by Kooch N. Daniels

Stars, Cards, and Stones: Exploring Cosmic Connections between Astrology, Tarot and Runestones, by Kooch N. Daniels, MA
REDFeather, 9780764368400, 192 pages, December 2024

In Stars, Cards, and Stones, Kooch N. Daniels invites readers on an intricate voyage through the realms of astrology, tarot, and runes. This elaborate tapestry of mysticism is woven together with deep wisdom, making the book an indispensable guide for both novices and seasoned practitioners alike.

Daniels is a revered figure in the world of divination and metaphysical studies. With over five decades of experience, she brings a profound understanding of the esoteric arts. Her ability to distill complex concepts into accessible and engaging prose sets her apart as an educator and guide in workshops and divination events in the US and abroad. Daniels is also a frequent guest on radio shows and podcasts, after hosting her own radio show. She has written five books and co-authored three books with her husband Victor. The two of them have created one oracle deck. She lives with her husband in Sonoma County, California.  You can learn more about her at www.mysticsecrets.net.

Daniels’ book is divided into four sections. The first one focuses on astrology, and the second features tarot cards and runes. The third section goes into more detail on each subject, while the fourth section blends all the information for divination. Each section is meticulously crafted, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the subject material. The information on the major arcana is better than most tarot guidebooks!

The first section delves into astrology, offering an exploration of how celestial bodies influence our lives. Daniels provides a clear and concise introduction to the fundamental concepts of astrology, including the zodiac, planetary movements, and their impact on human behavior. She also introduces advanced techniques, making the section invaluable for both beginners and those seeking to deepen their astrological knowledge.

In the second section, Daniels turns her attention to the tarot and runes. Here, she demystifies the tarot deck, providing a list of each major arcana card and its symbolism. Her guidance on tarot spreads and reading techniques is both practical and enlightening. Then she discusses runes and their metaphysical properties.

Daniels’ expertise shines through as she details the unique energies of various types of runes and how they can be used for healing, protection, and spiritual growth. Her approach is grounded in both historical context and modern practice, offering readers a well-rounded understanding of rune magic.

She also provides an exercise where you pull a card and find its astrological correspondent.  Next, you find the rune that matches. She invites readers to draw a sketch of the three parts and keep them on their desk to view during the day.  Daniels writes:

“These oracles share a primary partnership through parallel correlations on the Zodiac wheel. Each rune has a counterpart with a major tarot card and a sun sign or planet. Once you become aware of their astrological correlations, you have specific information that points to the comparability of their interpretations.”2

In the third section, Daniels presents what she calls “The Mystical Library,” with a complete review of zodiac signs, planets, and luminaries. Next, she presents the twenty-two cards of the major arcana, including a sample card, multiple names for each card, keywords, and correspondences for the zodiac and runes. Finally, she presents runes, with keywords, a complete description of all twenty-four stones and correspondences.

Daniels presents the keys to “Divination’s Doorway” in the fourth section:

“Once you become familiar with the stars, cards and stones and can recognize shared universal themes that weave unity among these three mystical arts, you can begin to develop your divination skills by using these three oracles.”3

I particularly enjoyed the sample sun sign readings Daniels provides in this section.  She also shares sample spreads for both tarot cards and rune stones. 

One of the main features of Stars, Cards, and Stones is its balance between esoteric knowledge and practical application. Daniels doesn’t just present history or information; she provides readers with exercises and rituals to integrate these mystical tools into their daily lives. This hands-on approach ensures that the book is both read AND experienced.

The visual presentation of Daniel’s book is another highlight. The book is beautifully designed, with illustrations and photographs that complement the text. For example, Daniels includes a four-color photo of a tarot card for each discussion of the major arcana cards. Different decks are featured, which gives the reader exposure to more decks. In the Acknowledgements, the author credits each deck creator and deck, making it easy to purchase the deck, if you choose. In discussing astrology and runes, the author presents numerous illustrations and charts. She presents several in the Appendix, as well. 

Stars, Cards, and Stones is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical guidance for anyone interested in astrology, tarot, and runes. Its comprehensive approach, combined with Daniels’ expertise and conversational writing style, makes it a must-have for those looking to deepen their understanding of these mystical arts. Daniel’s Endnotes and Bibliography give you reference material for the hungry student to learn even more.

This book would be great for anyone who would like to learn more about astrology, tarot, or runes. If someone were familiar with all three subjects, this book serves to pull it all together and provide new ways to combine divinatory techniques for a more comprehensive reading. I plan to keep it on hand and get out my set of runes!

Daniels’ husband Victor Daniels sums it up best:

“No one else I know has combined all three of these classical divinatory systems into one voice. Beyond knowing about each one of them, Kooch can draw on her knowledge of how to do a reading, combining all three of them that can blow your mind. In these pages she shows you how you can do that, too.”4

Manifestation Tarot, by Jayne Wallace

Manifestation Tarot, by Jayne Wallace and illustrated by Julia Cellini
CICO Books, 9781800653733, 78 cards, 64 pages, October 2024

Manifestation Tarot by Jayne Wallace with illustrations by Julia Cellini is a beautiful deck that promises to guide users on a transformative journey of self-discovery and manifestation. I was drawn to this deck by the artwork and idea of adding manifestation to my tarot journey.

As a well-known clairvoyant medium, Wallace brings her wealth of experience and deep understanding of the esoteric arts to create a deck that is both visually stunning and spiritually enriching. Wallace has written for many publications and authored four books, along with appearing on television in both the UK and America. She lives in Essex, UK.

Julia Cellini is an illustrator who works in a variety of mediums, specializing in watercolor and digital art. She finds inspiration in nature and has recently completed a series of works based on deities. She lives in Hawaii and loves exploring the flora and fauna in her tropical home. 

The first thing that strikes me about Manifestation Tarot is its breathtaking artwork. Each card is a masterpiece, adorned with vibrant colors and intricate designs that capture the essence of the tarot archetypes. The imagery is a blend of traditional Rider-Waite-Smith symbolism and modern themes. For example, the Magician is pictured as female, the Hanged Man is shown in more modern dress, and the Moon features a domesticated dog and cat. 

Wallace has infused each major arcana card with rich symbolism that resonates with the themes of personal empowerment and manifestation. The major arcana “embodies a powerful archetype or lesson that can help clarify your intentions, make informed decisions, and foster a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.”5

The minor arcana delves into the “different facets of human experience, influencing our intentions, energy, and the universe’s response to our desires. Together these elements offer an approach to manifesting and the law of attraction.”6 The minor arcana features beautiful, symbolic artwork on the court cards and simple drawings of the suit symbol for all the other cards, much like the Tarot de Marseille. 

All the cards in this deck also feature the name of the card and an affirmation that recaps the main theme of the card. For example, the Seven of Pentacles shares this affirmation: “Persistence in my efforts will yield security.” The back of the cards features what Wallace calls “The Flower of Manifestation,” a rainbow-colored lotus flower which “represents faith in ourselves.”7

A four-color guidebook provides detailed explanations of each card, along with practical tips on how to use the deck for manifestation and spiritual growth. Wallace begins with a brief introduction, including how to prepare your cards for reading. She also shares tips for reading the cards, including numerous spreads for both basic readings and manifestation. She features keywords, the mantra, and relevant meanings for each card in the deck.

To test drive the cards I chose to do the manifestation Seven Day Challenge. Wallace explains this is a “great way to kick start your connection to the rule of attraction.”8 For this challenge, I separated the major arcana cards from the rest of the deck and chose one card each day for seven days. I made a note of the affirmation on the card and any key information from the guidebook.  

Each day I shuffled the major arcana cards and drew one card to be my guiding light for the day.  Wallace recommends that you say the mantra or affirmation out loud seven times that day. She explains: “At the end of the week look at the story your cards have told you. The universe has given you a blueprint of where you should be heading in life at the moment.”9

I took an index card and recorded the card and the mantra for each day.  It was interesting to see the variety and the compatibility of the messages I received. I am looking forward to trying some of the other spreads, including one she calls “The Staircase of Success,” which asks you to shuffle the cards and then lay down the cards in a stair step fashion  as “a way of seeing how your future is going to unfold in a time frame, usually a year, but it can be a shorter or longer.”10

The cards are a standard size, yet the cardstock seems a little light for durability and ease of handling during shuffling and readings. I’m guessing the cards may bend quite easily over time. The deck comes in a beautifully designed, two-part box that protects the cards and the guidebook.

I loved the beauty of the cards and the rich language of the guidebook. Wallace and Cellini have put a new spin on the tarot with this deck. This deck would be great for both seasoned tarot readers and beginners. I’ll use this deck for the next few weeks for my daily one card draw, to benefit from the rich guidance and manifestation tips. I also plan to take it to my next Friday Coffee & Cards group meeting to share with my friends.

From the Fool, symbolizing new beginnings and infinite potential, to the World, denoting the fulfillment of goals and the completion of cycles, Manifestation Tarot serve as powerful reminders of the innate power within everyone. The interpretations provided in the guidebook are insightful and encourage deep reflection, helping users connect with the core messages of each card.

“The brilliant thing about manifesting is, even if you’re a warrior or a negative Nelly, using this deck you can switch your mindset from scarcity to abundance and supercharge your manifestation potential.”11

Crystal Clear Oracle, by Nadine Gordon-Taylor

Crystal Clear Oracle: Loving Guidance from the Mineral Kingdom, by Nadine Gordon-Taylor
Bear & Company, 9781591434849, 40 cards, 166 pages, December 2023

With the Crystal Clear Oracle: Loving Guidance from the Mineral Kingdom, intuitive artist Nadine Gordon-Taylor has combined 44 well known crystals and minerals with beautiful symbols from plants, animals, elementals, and ancient symbols to provide unique guidance for our lives.

This deck is the third deck created by Gordon-Taylor, who holds both MFA and doctorate degrees in art.  She has taught for more than 30 years through lectures and workshops.  Her artwork has been shown in galleries and collections around the world. She owns a gallery called Third Eye Arts in Peekskill, NY.  Learn more about her through her website https://www.thethirdeyestudio.com/meet-the-artist.

As someone who has been studying crystals for over 20 years, I was immediately drawn to this deck. Unlike most crystal oracle decks, this deck also features many different symbols on each card. You can choose to focus only on the crystal or mineral for a quick message or add layers to the guidance by reading about each symbol featured. Here is just one example of the symbols on these cards. (I’ve added brief information from the guidebook, as well.)   

“CRYSTAL:  Hanksite
Moniker:  The Earthy Supporter
Key words: Cleansing, grounding, and heightened sense of reality
Mineral content: Rare potassium sulfate
Healing properties: Realignment of your etheric chakra system. Hold me over any area of your body that feels unbalanced and needs healing.

SYMBOLS:
Capybara: You function best with others.
Beaver:  Follow your intuition on new projects.
Tulips: Rebirth, and two tulips mean you might want to look for balance and partnership.
Honeybees:  Examine your productivity with dedication, hard work, and collaboration.
Full Moon:  There is new information and brilliant epiphanies for you.
Viaduct:  Watch for opportunities for transition and change.
Earth: Look to your home planet for support.
Shooting Star: Your wishes will inevitably come true!
Affirmation: I am on the right track to my spiritual destination”8

As you can see, Gordon-Taylor weaves lots of guidance and encouraging information about each crystal or mineral, as well as the symbols she has chosen for each card.

Each card is brilliantly painted in a very realistic style.  I’ve seen artists attempt to draw or paint crystals and miss the mark. This is not the case with Gordon-Taylor. Each one of her renderings of the crystals and minerals is as realistic as any photo. She is very talented when it comes to painting the crystals and minerals as they appear in nature. She uses fine detail, shading, and an authentic depiction of the crystal in a traditional shape to present each crystal or mineral. Two of my favorite depictions in these cards are fluorite and aquamarine. 

The back of the card box declares that the cards are “intricately illustrated,”9 and this is true! She also uses different border colors to accent the pictorial layouts. The cards are a large format, measuring 4” inches by almost 6” inches. The back of the cards features a magnified view of an iolite crystal. 

As I’ve mentioned with the example for Hanksite above, the guidebook contains a wealth of information, with two to three pages per mineral. The messages are written in first person, from the point of view of each crystal. For example for Hanksite she relates:

“I am Hanksite, a rare potassium sulfate mineral, and I connect you with the Earth.  I am commonly found beneath the surface, embedded in mud or drill cores.”12

Gordon-Taylor utilizes different colors for the type in the Table of Contents, as well as the passages for each crystal. This makes the various headings really pop! Each card is also shown in the guidebook with a small four-color photo. She ends the guidance with three affirmations for each crystal.

The Table of Contents is laid out in alphabetical order and includes the name of the crystal, the moniker, key words and page number. This layout is brilliant because you can open the guidebook and run your finger down the page and select a crystal randomly for yourself or others, without taking the cards with you. In the Introduction, Gordon-Taylor shares her long history with minerals and her goal for this deck: 

“The constructive and positive messages found in this book allow you to access new and loving energies that inspire, empower, and heal. These messages come directly from the crystals that appear in each image.”13

Gordon-Taylor also shares how to use the cards, including different ways to clear the cards, spreads for use with the cards and the use of a sketchbook as a journal. At the back of the guidebook, she includes a 30-page glossary with words and phrases about crystals and minerals, as well as spiritual terms. The cards are stored in a beautiful box with an indentation for the cards, ample room for the guidebook and a magnetic clasp. 

These cards arrived in the mail and I didn’t have the chance to glance through them before my husband and I left to attend a gem and mineral show. I came home with three crystals (mangano, calcite, septarian) and an ammonite tray. When I pulled out these cards the next morning for my daily draw, I drew the card Ammonite!

For my friend Ann, I drew the card: Chrysanthemum Stone. This stone is known as The Karmic Liberator and references intuition, optimism and akashic records.

Ammonite helps you release the past and welcome change, evolution, and personal growth. According to Gordon-Taylor, ammonite is “The Ancient Emancipator,” and aids in “adapting to a new, exciting timeline and a new version of yourself.”14

“You have chosen this card because you are a beautiful soul experiencing challenging situations. You also want to feel joy again. I can help you reset your energy grid. Hold me in your hands when meditating and burrow deep into your intuition . . . You are here at this time to work out issues balancing the mind and heart.”15

My friend has had some challenges lately, and just accepted a new temporary position with a hospital in another state.  She loved the encouragement that she received from this stone, as well as from the symbology of the eagles, groundhogs, cherry tree, infinity symbol and the ankh.  I sent her a photo of the card and the verbiage for even more support. 

Crystal Clear Oracle is great for any level of oracle reader or crystal student. With the depth of the information about each crystal or mineral, as well as the reference materials on the various symbols, anyone can benefit from the knowledge shared by Gordon-Taylor. You can focus only on the crystal or read further and integrate all the information for a complete guidance session. I can see myself using these cards to add a footnote to a client reading or pull a card for myself when I’m troubled by a situation.

Quest for the Enlightened Feminine, by Anna Howard

Quest for the Enlightened Feminine: Faith, Tara, and the Path of Compassion, by Anna Howard
Findhorn Press, 9798888501429, 248 pages, November 2024

Quest for the Enlightened Feminine: Faith, Tara, and the Path of Compassion by Anna Howard is a personal journey of the author searching for the feminine aspect of the Divine. Howard begins this exploration after a profound dream encounter with Jesus Christ, and what ensues is an 18-month pilgrimage and deep personal work with the female Buddha Green Tara.

This book is organized into three parts with sixteen chapters. 

“Part One: Following the Call” gives the reader background into what prompts Howard’s search for spiritual wholeness along with insight into her job as a BBC broadcaster, which afforded her the opportunity to interview and gather information from those who aided in her spiritual journey. She begins her journey staying in a nearby convent for a week of silence and turning within. A discovery of The Tibetan Book of the Dead by Sogyal Rimpoche takes Howard into another phase of her spiritual quest and the outcome of spending some time in a Tibetan monastery, Samye Ling, in Scotland.

This section offers the reader an inside look at monastic life through the seeking of Howard and her determination to find the appropriate setting and work for her ever increasing yearning for a spiritual life. Having experienced the Buddhist path and inspired by what has been achieved through her inner work, she begins to question the seeming lack of feminine deities within Tibetan Buddhism. 

In “Part Two: Tara and the Peace Pilgrimage” the reader is introduced to one of the few faces of the feminine in Tibetan Buddhism: Tara. This section details Howard’s immediate connection and desire to spread the compassion and healing of Tara in the form of an 18-month pilgrimage from Holy Island Lindisfarne to South Africa.

“Said to be the “Mother of all the Buddhas”, Tara represents the feminine principle from which all phenomena manifest and into which all phenomena will eventually disappear. Tara may be conceived of as a kind of cosmic creative force, or she may be identified within the loving earthly mother who cares night and day for her ailing child.”16

“The Tara Pilgrimage” and subsequent sections of part three are dated in order of global travel and reach. Each entry is aligned with one of the 21 emanations of Tara. And, so Howard sets off…

“This is a mad idea really. “Set out from home base in Edinburgh, leaving everything behind and take with you 21 small statues of Tara, a camera, a notebook, and your passport. Take the Taras to wherever in the world you are instructed to go. Instructions will come through spiritual practice, intuition, and coincidence. Have complete faith and live the journey with the intention of doing Tara’s Will.” These were my clear guidelines.”17

We are told that each of the 21 statues is left in a special place in accord with the energy that may be needed/compatible in that location. These included Moscow, Russia; Seattle, WA; Sydney Botanical Gardens, Australia; Goa, India; Harare, Zimbabwe; and others. It is very interesting reading about the journeys and the selections made for blessings from Tara.

Part two concludes with “21 Emanations of Green Tara”, providing the reader with twenty-one beautiful colored images of Tara depicted in one of her specific attributes, in addition to a plate of the White Tara as conclusion. Howard invites the reader to use these images as tools of visualization for creating a connection with Tara.

The concluding “Chapter 16:The Fire and the Rose are One” does a nice job of offering the reader opportunity to feel the changes that Howard has experienced in her ten years largely devoted to the study and application of Tibetan Buddhism and realization of the blessings of Tara.

“Over the many years of seeking, of following the “call”, I would invariably recognize this interior quiet when it came as a very personal and intimate feeling of rest, of putting down the world and its cares and coming home.”18

Appendices 1-3 are devoted to specific introductory practices of devotion to Tara in Her many forms and are complete with a means to connect with Tara using “Appendix 4: Tonglen”, which is “a form of meditation that focuses on compassion; on the “giving” and “receiving” of energy in ways that transmute suffering and pain, whether our own or that of others.”19

Howard, again, provides the reader with a tool of practice that may be applied for any purpose and also offers a deeper perspective of the compassion bestowed from the grace of Tara. 

The Bibliography is thoughtfully separated into categories of titles based on Christianity, Buddhism, General Info, and General Spirituality. Resources include a selection of abbeys and other spiritual centers, complete with addresses and web e-dresses. And, the concluding part of this title has a very helpful Glossary, replete with terminology relevant to the practice of Buddhism.

Would I Recommend?

For many reasons, Quest for the Enlightened Feminine by Anna Howard was a difficult title to write a review that gives justice to the complexity, passion, and nuances that flow through this autobiographical offering. I found myself re-reading sections to draw out more of the emotions that are embedded within the words. It was much like observing someone on their spiritual path as they move through the stages of wonder, disappointment, grief, learning, and all that holds the lessons needed to move forward, evolve, grow, and find your own unique way. This is one of the more intimate books I’ve read in a while, theory still present but as a support to the primary goal of peace and oneness with self.

Howard aptly states the bigger lesson realized and shared:

“It didn’t matter whether I was in a Christian monastery, convent, or place of prayer; in a Buddhist temple, shrine, or retreat centre; in Darshan with Amma or Mother Meera (two greatly revered holy women from India); or in satsang with a guru from the from the Advaitta tradition….It didn’t matter if I was sitting on a hillside, in the ruins of an ancient site, by the river or the beach……When the chattering mind settled down and my true self came to the foreground, it was always the same. Thus I learnt that there was no one way to God, to the Divine, to the Higher Self. There were as many paths as there were moments when the thinking mind gave way to what lay beyond; pure awareness.”20

About the Author: Anna Howard

Anna Howard, M.A. (Oxon), is an Oxford-educated student of Buddhism, whose work focuses on the healing and transformative energies of Tara. A workshop facilitator, teacher, healer, and writer, Anna lives in Dorset, England.

A Year of Inner Peace, by Kirsten Riddle

A Year of Inner Peace: Find a Calmer and Happier Way of Being, by Kirsten Riddle
CICO Books, 1800653433, 144 pages, December 2024

I love the concept of Kirsten Riddle’s A Year of Inner Peace: Find a Calmer and Happier Way of Being. It’s more than a list of prompts for each week of the year, separated into seasons to get through the year. It’s suggestions to help one move through the year finding a “calmer and happier way of being.”20 Inner peace is the desired result, not accomplishing a to-do list for each season. There is soft nudging versus prodding to encourage one to go inward, slowly, with self-love.

What does peace mean to you? What would it feel like to live with inner peace? 

Naturally, the book is sectioned into the four seasons with a new weekly prompt each time you turn the page. Some activities can be done in a day, others might span a bit longer. Certain activities might be a one-and-done, while you might want to return to other activities that resonate with you throughout the season. It’s all up to you. There are beautiful mantras to support the work that you are doing. As each season has its own flavor, colors, scents, scenes, activities, and even temperatures, the rituals and activities support the time in which you are doing them. Ultimately, the goal is to support your well-being.

We know all too well about the “best laid plans,” so I particularly appreciated Riddle’s reminder that “a year is a long time, and it’s easy to skip through the seasons without noticing the changes, but this book hopefully provides some food for thought, ideas to nurture peace and love, and practical ways to make positive changes.”21

I received the book just before the Winter Solstice. Rather than wait for the first section, Spring, I dove into the final section, Winter. Being a January baby, Winter is a special season for me. In fact, it’s my favorite season. A fresh start, clean and quiet, a time to inward. A slow down after the hustle and bustle of the holidays. 

Of course, Winter is a time for hibernation and introspection, but Riddle gives the reader suggestions through rituals and activities to go even deeper. I especially loved the visualization of the enchanted veil and the activity to protect garden friends during these colder months.

Riddle recommends awakening gently in the Spring. Of course, we’re encouraged to do a spring cleaning. She also guides us to experience our own world with new eyes, as if we’ve never seen it before – our home, the gym, our daily walk to and from work. Summer prompts us to have a siesta, lend a helping hand, and keep cool. Summer encourages us to dawdle, recharge, and enjoy the sensual abundance that surrounds us. And in Fall, bring the outside in, surrender, and practice gratitude.

You can use the book in a non-linear way, that is, read the current season to get the general flavor and then try the things that you’re attracted to or move through it chronologically. However you approach the writings, you’ll be able to find some peace on every page. As Riddle writes, “Be kind to yourself and do not rush.”22

While the activities, rituals, and prompts might seem simple on the surface, they are multi-dimensional, depending on how deep one wants to go. All, though, are change agents. The accompanying visuals are done in soft pastel colors supporting the various seasons with the intention of supporting you on this journey. The book concludes with Riddle’s writing on a “Passage to Peace” and ends with a mantra for the year, “I am in control of my future; I manifest a life of love and peace.”23

This book is perfect for those interested in slow-living and cultivating a lifestyle that’s attuned to nature’s cycles. The beauty of this book makes it a wonderful item to keep on a coffee table or night stand. I recommend A Year of Inner Peace without reservation and encourage you to move through this book to experience inner peace every day of the year.

The Aquarian Shaman, by Linda Star Wolf

The Aquarian Shaman: Walking the Spiral Path of Transformation, by Linda Star Wolf
Bear & Company, 1591435145, 192 pages, September 2024

The Aquarian Shaman: Walking the Spiral Path of Transformation by Linda Star Wolf is a captivating exploration of shamanic practices and their relevance in the modern age as humanity undergoes a major shift in consciousness. Star Wolf, a seasoned shamanic practitioner, presents a guide that combines ancient wisdom with contemporary insights, aiming to assist readers in navigating the transformative energies of the Aquarian age. Offering tools and practices to awaken reader’s inner Aquarian Shaman, Star Wolf serves as a midwife for others during this quantum shift.

Star Wolf begins the book with a heartfelt introduction that shares her background with shamanic work and what called her to write this book. She provides the context for her terms “Aquarian Shaman” and bridges the past and present of shamanic work, illuminating for readers the sacred history of shamanic elders she’s worked with, while also encouraging readers to follow present callings to undergo this inner journey for the purpose of creating a better world.

“For me, the Aquarian Shaman is one who humbly learns from the timeless, sacred wisdom passed to them by respected elders. The true Aquarian Shaman has also learned, or remembered, how to listen and to trust their inner healer and guide, and has found a path back to wholeness.”24

Central to the book is the concept of the Aquarian Age—a period characterized by rapid change and spiritual awakening. Star Wolf suggests that the energies of this age offer unique opportunities for transformation and healing. She encourages readers to embrace these energies, using them as a catalyst for personal evolution. Star Wolf teaches how becoming an Aquarius Shaman can assist readers in navigating the emergence of this new time, even contributing to its emergence by cultivate the inner sight that shifts collective awareness.

While the idea of becoming a shaman, something a highly revered position in many cultures, might seem like a daunting task, Star Wolf teaches tools to aid readers in reaching this level of consciousness and integrating their practice into their daily life with ease. Star Wolf delves deeply into shamanic technique, providing an overview of rituals, ceremonies, and tools that have been used by shamans for centuries. She teaches how these timeless techniques are just as potent today, providing a roadmap for embarking on their own shamanic journeys.

“As we move beyond relying solely on external authorities for answers, we’re now embracing the chance to find wisdom within and assume greater personal responsibility. In order to enable a massive Aquarian consciousness shift, a great number of us must take part in this profound evolution.”25

Star Wolf’s approach is both empowering and accessible, making the practices applicable to individuals at any stage of their spiritual journey. In “Section 2: Shamanic Medicine Tools and Practices” there are chapters dedicated to connecting with nature, opening one’s heart, being in circle with others, communing with sacred objects,  creating meaningful altars, connecting with totem animals, and working with the medicine wheel. At the end of each chapter there is a “shamanic exercise” that readers can perform. The focus on this section is the external, while the following section focuses on internal tools. I found this distinction very useful when moving through the Aquarian Shamanic process.

“Section 3: The “Inner Tools” to Awaken the Aquarian Shaman Within” invites readers to use their imagination, one of the greatest tools we all have within; she especially focuses on the mythic imagination and the value of working with archetypes for transformation. Star Wolf also details the Shamanic Healing Initiatory Process (SHIP) she created in 2000 for those “seeking structured shamanic training.”26 This impactful process involves within with the archetypal energies and embodying the five elements (water, earth, fire, spirit, and air). This process culminates in an inner metamorphosis, similar to a kundalini awakening. As with the previous section, there are shamanic exercises readers can do for personal initiation.

Working with the elements in this way was a powerful experience. I really felt my relationship with them deepen, and I had different revelations with each one. I suggest taking one’s time moving through this section, as certain elements can be challenging for us, showing where we might need healing before we integrate the energy. It took me almost two weeks to feel ready to move to the final sixth step in the process. There’s absolutely no rush when undergoing this potent initiation process!

“A new heightened consciousness unfolds when we focus our imagination to access inward wisdom, surrender to the inner journey, and then take action steps in the outer world to achieve what we have imagined.”27

The final section, “Section 4: Shamanic Experiences for a Quantum Shift”, brings all that reader has learned into the wider world. Star Wolf shares co-creative ways for Aquarian Shamans to connect with each other, including Shamanic Breathwork (“a highly experiential, ceremonial process that uses deep, circular breathing combined with chakra-attuned music to stir up, activate, and liberate energy held in the chakras28), pilgrimage to sacred sites, and seeking out shamanic communities for further growth.

Overall, The Aquarian Shaman is a valuable resource for anyone interested in shamanic practices and spiritual growth. The book’s blend of ancient wisdom and modern insights makes it a relevant and inspiring guide for navigating the challenges and opportunities of the Aquarian Age. Whether you’re new to shamanism or a seasoned practitioner, this book offers valuable guidance on the path to personal and spiritual transformation. Star Wolf’s positive and encouraging tone inspires readers to pursue the path of the Aquarian Shaman with confidence, offering a path to change within and discover others on this path to build co-creative communities as a new age emerges.

The Ofrenda Oracle, by Nancy Hendrickson and Carrie Paris

The Ofrenda Oracle: Celebrating the Day of the Dead, by Nancy Hendrickson and Carrie Paris
Weiser Books, 1578638496, 136 pages, 60 cards, September 2024

The Ofrenda Oracle: Celebrating the Day of the Dead by Nancy Hendrickson and Carrie Paris is a beautiful deep dive into the world of divination, spirituality, and ancestor reverence. In this oracle deck, the creators draw upon the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos, inviting readers to connect with their heritage and the wisdom of those who came before them.

“This oracle was created to honor those who have passed beyond the Great Veil, to facilitate messages from the Otherworld, or to divine your own future.”1

The format of this deck is very interesting. Creators Hendrickson and Paris designed it as two systems in one deck. Readers can either use Cards 1 through 36 as a standard Lenormand deck, or they can use all 60 cards together in the form of a regular oracle deck. The first 36 cards have the Lenormand symbolism on them, while Cards 37 through 56 feature symbolic images that represent aspects of Día de los Muertos.

There’s also a special card, “The Ofrenda”, that “represents the offerings left on the Altar de los Muertos”25, which the creators recommend placing face up when working with the cards to the remind the reader of their ancestors while doing their reading.

Each card is beautifully illustrated, featuring vibrant colors and symbolic imagery that pay homage to  Día de los Muertos, offering multiple layers of interpretation for users. The dark blue cards are filled with vibrant colors (red, yellow, white, purple, light blue) that pop in the style of traditional Mexican art. When looking at the artistry of this deck, one feels an instant connection to the modern cultures that celebrate Día de los Muertos along with Aztex and Toltec cultures in which the tradition originated.

The cards are smaller than standard oracle deck size, fitting in the palm of the hand like playing cards instead. At first I was surprised by their smaller size, but when shuffling and working with the deck, I’ve come to enjoy the way they feel and look when laid out in a spread. For once, I can easily fit them all on my table! The spreads the creators share in the guidebook focus on communion with the beloved dead; they are truly beautiful to work with, facilitating a tangible connection with loved ones who have passed on.

The guidebook is written in English on the right and Spanish on the left. For each card, the creators provide keywords, meaning, Storyteller message, and when applicable, Lenormand meaning too. The Storyteller message is unique in that it represents the message from “those beyond the Veil.”26 This blend of different interpretations provides illuminating insight into the card’s meaning while leaving plenty of room for reflection on the significance of the card’s message. Themes of remembrance, gratitude, and spiritual connection permeate throughout the card’s meaning, creating a sense of continuity between the past and present.

One of favorite cards in the deck is The Stork. This card features a burnt orange skeleton stork standing on one leg. The overall message of the card indicates a time of change, relocation, journey/movement, and pregnancy and birth. This joy-filled card made me feel inspired when I pulled it, and I really liked the Storyteller’s message in the guidebook:

“German folklore tells us that storks were given the task of flying babies home to their new parents. Even today we reference the Stork when talking about a newborn. We hope the glide path is free of obstruction.”27

This message makes me feel optimistic about my upcoming ventures!

Overall, The Ofrenda Oracle is a gorgeous work of art that honors tradition of Día de los Muertos and offers a path for spiritual exploration and ancestral connection. Hendrickson and Paris have succeeded in creating a deck that is not only a tool for divination but also a celebration of life, memory, and cultural heritage. Whether you are seeking to deepen your spiritual practice to connect with your ancestors or simply looking appreciate the beautiful symbolism of  Día de los Muertos, this oracle is a delightful addition to any collection.

Tarot Training Sleeves, by James Jacob Pierri and Dan Williams

Tarot Training Sleeves, by James Jacob Pierri and Dan Williams
REDFeather, 9780764368196, 80 sleeves, 83 cards, December 2024

With the Tarot Training Sleeves system, James Jacob Pierri and Dan Williams have created a handy training tool that gives a new reader “Cliff Notes” for learning tarot. 

James Jacob Pierri also created The Auset Gypsy Tarot and is a professional tarot reader and teacher with more than 30 years of experience. As an astrologer who has published articles worldwide, Pierri is also a musician, artist, performer, and host for various media. Learn more about him at AusetGypsy.com.

After working in higher education for more than 20 years, Dan Williams now specializes in computer programming and bringing new technologies to education. He was also a featured character in Who Wants to be a Superhero on the SyFy channel. Williams loves everything from comic books to photography and fashion design.

Together, Pierri and Williams have created a novel way to learn the meanings behind tarot cards by creating a system of clear plastic sleeves, small stickers for keywords, and tarot-sized cards with meanings for both upright and reversed cards. The symbolism is based on traditional Rider-Waite-Smith deck; six cards from a Rider-Waite-Smith deck are shown on the cover of the training set.

From the moment you open this kit, Pierri and Williams take you by the hand and literally tell you what to do in three easy steps. I started with the major arcana cards, as the creators suggested. It took me 10 minutes to place my major arcana cards in the sleeves, add the keyword stickers and then slip in the definition cards. So, when you prepare all 78 cards, it will probably take you about 35 minutes total.

Note: There are also 2 blank definition cards you can use, in case you have a deck with extra cards, such as Rachel Pollack did in The Shining Tribe Tarot. You can add your own information to the set of training tools.

Once you have assembled the cards, I suggest you sit and review them, starting with the major arcana and going through the cards in order. Next, go through the minor arcana, one suit at a time. Look at your card, note the keyword sticker, and then read through the definition cards. This allows you to have the material in the back of your mind and prepares you to work with the cards.

Next, you can shuffle the cards by placing them on a table and moving them around.  Be careful not to be too rough, or the cards will come out of the sleeves. You can then use the cards for a reading.

Pierri and Williams have provided a QR code that gives you even more information about the cards and utilizing the cards for training. They share spreads and tarot tutorials, including videos for each card in the Tarot deck. The very first video shows you how to set up the sleeves for your personal training use.

In the video, they share that the cards that work best with this system should be no larger than 3” X 5”.  This information would have been great to add to the box or inside information about the system. Luckily, I noticed that they referred to the Rider-Waite-Smith deck on the box cover, so I reached for a standard-sized deck that I knew would work with this set. 

On each of the definition cards, there is also a QR code in the top right hand corner.  This takes you to an online portal where you can learn even more about that card.  Here, the creators show pictures of a card from two different decks and provide expanded information about the upright and reversed meanings. Pierri and Williams also share how this card might be read in Past, Present, or Future placements in a spread, as well as the astrological significance. There is a wealth of information in this online resource. Their online portal provides even more information and they welcome questions, as well.

I have a friend who is just learning about tarot, and I plan to share this system with her.  The nice thing about the design is that it can be used by one person and then passed on to another person. The tarot cards can be removed easily and new cards inserted into the plastic sleeves.

The creators have really created an incredible resource for new tarot students with Tarot Training Sleeves. This system will be best for a new or novice tarot student. When my husband and I were learning tarot almost 20 years ago, this would have been a great way to learn basic meanings!  This would make a great gift for anyone you know who is starting their own tarot journey.

Pagan Portals – The Fallen Women of Mythology, by Lady Haight-Ashton

Pagan Portals – The Fallen Women of Mythology: Goddesses, Saints, and Sinners, by Lady Haight-Ashton
Moon Books, 180341636X, 112 pages, October 2024

Pagan Portals – The Fallen Women of Mythology: Goddesses, Saints, and Sinners by Lady Haight-Ashton is a fascinating exploration into the lives and legends of women who have been labeled as “fallen”. This book delves into the complexities and dualities of these figures, offering a nuanced perspective that challenges traditional narratives, challenging stereotypes that have boxed them into these disempowering labels. Seeking to present these women in a new light, acknowledging their strength and agency, Haight-Ashton reclaims the stories of those often misunderstood or misrepresented.

Haight-Ashton covers quite a range of women in this book, from accused witches to Greek and Hindu goddesses, along with Christian saints and women in the Bible. There’s a good mixture of mortal and divine women, sharing insight into the historical background of some, which earned them a sort of mythology based on their so-called “deviance”, and classical mythological figures who have aspects of the feminine that have been denounced, feared, or condemned.

“Using the power of the word, I have chosen a diverse cross section of remarkable women with compelling stories. Some are obscured and others known, but all of their stories are worthy of our notice.”29

The information given about each woman is relatively short. Some entries are only a few paragraphs, while others might span a page. For those looking to go deeper, additional research would be necessary. 

This book is more a compendium to honor the fallen women and introduce them to readers, commemorating their stories and offering a new perspective about their life.

There’s something sacred about taking the time to remember these women. This book might appear to be a quick read, as it’s only 112 pages, but I often found myself pausing to reflect on the women, the time period she lived, and the challenges she faced. I started to realize how connected all women are, throughout time and space, and the necessity to avoid judgement, criticism, and putting blame on others who don’t fall into our own conception of “good”.

I also started to reflect on the portrayal of women in the Bible while reading this book. I turned my back on my Christian upbringing quite some time ago, but reading about all the women classified as prostitutes, given no other reference to their personhood or character, made me angry at the sexual discrimination. Haight-Ashton does a great job showing their misrepresentation, indicating how they were misunderstood and then villainized for centuries to come.

The final chapter is filled with odes to the fallen women. There’s a liturgy, in memories, multiple odes to sinners, and three hymns to goddesses. For those also feeling the collective rage or grief that can be stirred up by this material, this chapter presents an opportunity to actively commemorate all the women who have befallen the fate of having their name smeared, lives ruined, and precious memories distorted.

Overall, I feel Pagan Portals – The Fallen Women of Mythology would be great for women who want a reminder of what has been collectively endured and put upon them throughout time. For those facing similar challenges now, such as discrimination or sexism, there will absolutely be stories of solidarity to remind you that we’ll keep on fighting no matter what. Remembering these fallen women is a testament to the strength of spirit we all have within. Honoring these women by reading their story is a wonderful way to show love to the rebel and fighter within ourselves! Lady Haight-Ashton offers a fresh perspective on well-known myths, encouraging readers to question and explore beyond traditional narratives.