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Tag Archives: astrology

Palmistry, by Sasha Fenton

Palmistry: Your Plain & Simple Guide to Reading Destiny in Your Hands, by Sasha Fenton
Hampton Roads Publishing, 978-1642970685, 160 pages, 2024

In her book, Palmistry: Your Plain and Simple Guide to Reading Destiny in Your Hands, author Sasha Fenton presents an easy-to-read guide to reading palms.  She even includes a brief explanation of fingerprints. The book is written in a very conversational style with lots of drawings that support the text and make it easy to read your own palm and the hands of friends and family. This book is a reprint of a version that was published in 2009 and again in 2016. 

A professional astrologer since 1973, Sasha Fenton has also practiced tarot, numerology and palmistry for many years. She is a prolific writer, with over 120 books that have been translated into 11 languages around the world. In addition to speaking at workshops and panels in Great Britain, Fenton has also appeared on numerous TV and radio programs. Her articles on astrology have been published in many magazines and newspapers. She has also served on several boards and councils, as well as aiding in the launch of MBS Professionals LTD, a group for practitioners in the spiritual arts. Fenton currently lives in western England. 

I have always been fascinated by palmistry and was excited by the cover of Fenton’s book, which features a hand with some of the most important regions highlighted in bright, bold colors.  She even included the astrological correspondences for the fingers!

After a brief introduction, Fenton dives right into teaching us how to read hands, dividing the subject matter into eleven chapters. She begins with a masculine set of hands and a scene where you and your girlfriends are out for the evening and decide to research the guys you encounter. She covers hand size and the differences between right and left-handed people. I found this quote amusing:

“Right-handed people are in the majority; so, if you like an ordinary type of guy whose head isn’t full of artistic waffle, this is the man for you.”1

Next, she highlights details of female hands, before moving on to a “map of the hand,” which highlights different areas of our lives. She provides a brief history and shares: “the Indo-European palmistry that we use has links to the planets in astrology, but there are subtle differences between a palmist’s view of the planetary connections and that of astrologers.”2 She explains that she thinks that this difference relates to the way modern astrology has strayed from more ancient ways of looking at the planets and how they interact with life on earth.

Fenton presents a great table of the primary planets and the areas of the hand (and life) that each reflects. The rest of the chapter focuses on the planets and how each one shows up in our hands. In successive chapters, she covers the fingers, the lines on the hands, marks on the hands, and how the hands relate to love and relationships. I found this chapter really interesting!  

Next, Fenton covers the hands and markings and qualities that can point to health or illness.  She advises the reader to check out other, more comprehensive books on this topic if you are really interested in learning more.

Finally, Fenton combines all the knowledge that she has shared and brings the reader back to the restaurant scene from the first chapter. She gives you tips about bringing all the information together, in order to read a palm and learn more about the people in your life. This chapter is really focused on the “love” aspect, and she provides information about what to look for in a mate, if you are desiring certain traits and characteristics.

I decided to test what I’d learned and do a reading on my husband’s hands. Here’s what I learned:

Large hands: Doesn’t like to be rushed, enjoys quiet nights at home

Right-handed: Happy with the ordinary and may be good with hands for odd jobs 

Veins showing on back of hand: Sensitive in nature and will hear what you say 

Flexible hands: May be spontaneous and happy to go out of town on the spur of the moment

Edge of hand is thick: Not easy to shock this man

Fingers spread widely: Generous with money

Rounded fingertips and a thumb that opens widely: Friendly, helpful, social

I would say that each of these qualities is accurate for my guy! Next, I’ll look at his lines and look for more qualities and check out some of the health notes. 

Palmistry is great for anyone who wants to learn more about reading palms, hands, and fingers. It would probably be best for a beginner, as the information is very foundational and a more experienced palm reader might be disinterested. Since it is so easy to read, it would also be good for teenagers or young adults to read and use the information to analyze friends and family. 

I plan to investigate Sasha Fenton further and find more of her books and articles!

Written in the Stars, by Kate Rose

Written in the Stars: The Astrology of Soulmate, Karmic, and Twin Flame Relationship, by Kate Rose
New World Library, 1608689158, 296 pages, September 2024

Have you ever wondered if you were compatible with someone based on your astrology charts? Until recently most astrological compatibility books have been based on sun signs, but focusing only one aspect of the chart doesn’t give the whole picture. This is especially true when you begin to understand there’s different types of relationships we experience in life. Not all relationships are the same; people come into our lives for different reasons at different seasons. And learning to decode astrological energy is one of the best ways to gain more insight into your romantic life and the nature of your relationships.

Written in the Stars: The Astrology of Soulmates, Karmic, and Twin Flame Relationships by Kate Rose is one of the most interesting books I’ve ever read on the topic of romance and astrology. Rose, an experienced astrologer and relationship coach, delves into the astrological aspects that influence romantic connections. She provides readers with a unique blend of practical advice and spiritual wisdom, offering guidance on how to navigate the complexities of love. Through an exploration of the intricate dance between fate and personal choice in the realm of love and relationships, readers become empowered to trust the flow of relationships as they have a cosmic purpose to fulfill.

“The cosmos is always waiting for you to read the ancient code of astrology like braille on your heart that’s been starved for hope, knowing that once you do, your soul opens to see clearly and choose differently.”3

Rose identities three types of love: soulmate, karmic, and twin flame. There’s a section dedicated to each type, along with the relevant astrological aspects that influence that type the most. And it’s the combination of type of love with astrological backing that yields fascinating insights into one’s relationships. There’s a lot to discover, whether or not you’re currently in a relationship, because you’ll start to reflect on how your relationships up until now have progressed or repeated patterns, offering insight into the type of lessons you’re learning through love.

According to Rose, soulmate relationships are usually most people’s entry into love, representing when we think love should look like. She describes how “it can feel like you’re with your best friend because there are little to no challenges, but that is also why there is rarely any growth.”4 A key lesson for this type of relationship “is that what is best for your is not what is most like you but, rather, what complements you.”5 To guide readers through identifying a soulmate and delving deeper into their chart, Rose teaches about Saturn, Mercury, and the dynamic between the Sun and the Moon in compatibility. 

Next, there’s karmic relationships. These are the uncomfortable ones that hit you like a bolt of lightning. There’s no denying the chemistry, but there’s also plenty of challenges to overcome as you learn to honor your truth, healing old wounds, discovering your self worth, and relate in a healthy way to your partner. It can often take years of a karmic on-again, off-again situation to fully integrate the lessons. Rose writes, “This feeling of not being able to escape the connection is one of the hallmark traits of the karmic relationship.”6In this section Rose teaches the astrological signatures of the South Node, how to find balance by looking at the elemental make-up of one’s chart, and archetypes one moves through as they mature, and how to use astrology to heal childhood wounds.

“It’s when your truth aligns with the truth of another, when both of you have removed your masks and you’re standing free as sovereign beings under the light of the full moon ready to go all in, that love finally finds you.”7

The last section is dedicated to twin flame love, or “healthy divine love” as Rose also calls it. She refers to this stage as the “soft love era”8 “where you open to receive a love that genuinely does feel like home–even if it’s a home you have never before known.”9 Astrologically, Rose teaches about the placements of Venus and the North Node and the Rising sign in one’s chart. These can point the way towards living an authentic life where you are seen, valued, and loved for being exactly who you are.

One strength of this book is Rose’s ability to balance spiritual growth with practical relationship advice. The real-life examples and anecdotes she shares add a relatable and human touch to the astrological concepts. No matter where you are in your love journey, Rose provides guidance, hope, and a promise there’s an amazing future ahead. She also consistently reminds readers that all our love relationships have happened exactly when they were meant to, offering the lessons needed at that time.

“Nothing is lost, and nothing is wasted, because as you surrender into the arms of love, time evaporates in the fulfillment of understanding.”10

Her empowering messages resonate throughout the book, making it not just a guide to astrology, but a manual for healing, personal growth, and self-discovery. In each section, there are blank charts readers can fill in their astrological placements alongside their partner’s for comparison as they learn about astrological signatures from Rose. And at the end of each section, there’s journal prompts, affirmations, and moon rituals that the reader can do. These  practical exercises and reflection questions really help to deepen their understanding of the material and apply it to one’s own life. This book truly offers a deep dive into your natal chart and the charts of those you love.

Overall, Written in the Stars is a thoughtful and enlightening book that offers valuable insights into the interplay between astrology and relationships. Rose’s compassionate and knowledgeable approach to relationships makes it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in exploring the cosmic influences on their love life. I have gained so much insight by looking back on my past relationships to see how the different partners were a reflection of what I was moving through personally at different stages of life; I also had great discussions with my husband while reading that opened up new layers of intimacy in our relationship. Whether you’re single or in a relationship, this book is sure to provide revelations about your love life and point the way towards cultivating healthy divine love.

Starlore Arcana, by Nitasia Roland

Starlore Arcana: Constellations for Tarot, Astrology, and Cartomancy, by Nitasia Roland
Weiser Books, 1578638488, 128 pages, 56 cards, September 2024

Starlore Arcana: Constellations for Tarot, Astrology, and Cartomancy by Nitasia Roland is an intriguing and imaginative fusion of ancient wisdom and modern mysticism. In this deck, Roland seamlessly weaves together the celestial themes of constellations with the practices of tarot, astrology, and cartomancy, creating a rich tapestry that invites readers to explore the cosmos both within and beyond.

“We see something of our souls in the heavens, and the use of images helps us connect with those beings that are the stars.”9

The design of this 56-card deck is based on Astronomical Playing Cards created by John Lenthall and published in 1717. Roland digitally optimized Lenthall’s deck and then added four Knight cards she created, as the original deck had the traditional structure for playing cards (Jack, Queen, and King). Playing card suits are used instead of the traditional tarot suits with Wands as Clubs, Cups as Hearts, Swords as Spades, and Pentacles as Diamonds.

The symbol for the suit and card number is at the top of each card, though the full name of the card is also written at the bottom. The image of the constellation is the focal point for each card. Then the French name is written in a beautiful font, while the English translation is written in cursive below. Some cards feature more hand-written insight such as “rises not” or “sets not” to give further information about the constellation.

The deck is beautifully illustrated, with enchanting images that bring the constellations to life. These visuals not only enhance the reader’s experience but also serve as a valuable tool for meditative and intuitive work.  I love the rich colors used for the cards, which are a perfect contrast to the bold black lines of the imagery. For someone who loves both astrology and tarot, seeing the constellations come to life in the depictions and then further be illuminated by the structure of the tarot is a real treat. There’s so many layers in each card, and this is also reflected in the detailed guidebook entries.

Roland’s translation of the vastness of the night sky into personal and relatable insights in the guidebook is impressive. In the introduction, Roland shares the numerology meanings for Ace-10, quick descriptions of the suits and court cards, and guidance on how to consecrate, charge, and store one’s deck. Then for each card, she has written about the location of the constellation in the sky/times of the year when it’s present, the mythology or history of the constellation (star lore), cartomancy meaning, tarot meaning, and divination. Some cards also have a zodiac section too, if they have astrological significance.

For each entry, the longest section by far is the divination, providing a ton of insight about the card’s message for you. One of the standout features of this deck is Roland’s thorough research and deep understanding of the symbolic connections between the stars and divinatory messages. Each constellation is packed with details that offer historical context, mythological background, and practical guidance. Even as a seasoned tarot reader and astrologer, I find myself gaining plenty of new insights from how Roland ties all the aspects of each card together.

Plus, the guidebook is nice and big, making it easy to hold in one’s hand and read like a book. For someone studying the constellations, simply pursuing the guidebook will yield tons of insight, especially from the Star Lore section of each entry. And for those more drawn to divination, there’s something about the tandem reading of the cartomancy, tarot, and mythological significance of the constellation that illuminates so much within a reading. Truly, this deck is one of a kind in this regard.

One of my favorite cards in this deck is Ace of Spades (Swords), featuring the constellation Draco. The imagery looks like a mix of a dragon and snake, and on the card it reads “sets not” as this constellation never dips below the horizon. The lore describes how it is of Phonecian origins and also a Chaldaen figure. To the Babalonians, this constellation represented Tiamat, “the dragon goddess of chaos”.11 There’s also a Greek myth included too.

Cartomancy meanings include “Clarity”efn_note]page 65[/efn_note] and “Intellectual prowess.”12 While some tarot meanings read “Cutting toxicity”efn_note]page 65[/efn_note] and “Breakthroughs”efn_note]page 65[/efn_note]. Roland writes as part of the divination:

“Balance street-smart cunning with levelheadedness and decisive action, know thyself, and declare your battle cry. It is time to claim the prize that your holy Daimon guards for you in the gard of your personal Eden, which is none other than the wondrous ability to understand the part you have to play in the grand scheme of life–a many-branched tree laden with meaningful synchronicities and deep gnosis that help cut through darkness, chaos, and clouds of ambiguity and welcome cathartic experiences to guide your personal mission along avenues of joy and prosperity.”efn_note]page 65[/efn_note]

How potent and poetic is that divination? And that’s only a part of what Roland has to say about Draco! This deck definitely isn’t just a lot of fluff; it’s packed with meaningful substance that takes readers deeper on their spiritual journey.

Overall, Starlore Arcana is a captivating and enlightening deck that offers a fresh perspective by blending cartomancy, tarot, astronomy, and mythology. Roland has created a valuable resource for anyone looking for thorough readings that have a multi-faceted approach to the divination. Roland provides a unique and inspiring way to connect with the cosmos; I’ve definitely been more inclined to go star-gazing when reading with this deck. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or a curious newcomer, this deck is sure to spark your imagination and give you new insight to the interconnection of our night’s sky and the divinatory arts.

Astrology’s Magical Nodes of the Moon, by Carmen Turner-Schott and Bernie Ashman

Astrology’s Magical Nodes of the Moon: Releasing the Past & Embracing the Future, by Carmen Turner-Schott, MSW, LISW, and Bernie Ashman
O-Books, 180341412X, 152 pages, August 2024

Astrology’s Magical Node of the Moon by Carmen Turner-Schott, MSW, LISW and Bernie Ashman is an exploration into the enigmatic world of lunar nodes in astrology. The authors delve deeply into the significance of the North and South Nodes, often referred to as the “Nodes of Destiny.” They teach us how these celestial points, which are not planets but rather mathematical points where the moon’s orbit intersects with the ecliptic, hold profound implications for personal growth, karmic lessons, and spiritual evolution.

“The true value of this book is to give you the tools to transform the past life issues described into creative success and to point you toward the paths of greater harmony.”12

Both Turner-Schott and Ashman are seasoned astrologers. Turner-Schott is the founder of Deep Soul Divers Astrology with an international astrological client base as well as a clinical social worker. She also hosts a podcast, runs astrology circles, teaches, and writes.  Ashman is an internationally known astrologer with fifty years of experience lecturing, writing, and serving clients. Both authors also have previously published several astrology books, including Phoenixes and Angels (Turner-Schott), SignMates (Ashman), Sun Sign Houses and Healing (Turner-Schott), and Astrology, Psychology, and Transformation (Ashman).

With the intention of readers to have the background knowledge needed to better understand their nodal placements, in “Part One: Astrology’s Main Characters – Planets, Signs, and Houses” the authors teach the foundations of astrology. Topics covered include the element and modality of each sign, meaning of each planet, and an overview of the twelve houses. While these subjects could be entire books, this section is very informative and provides a wonderful overview for readers.

“Part Two: The Magical Nodes of the Moon” begins with a section on past lives. The authors write:

“Believing in past lives is central to analyzing the nodes of the Moon. The south node sign of the Moon always shows  your deeper soul personality and lessons learned from the past. The north node shows the type of personality traits you are meant to master in this current lifetime.”13

This perspective is central to the rest of the book and shapes how the authors interpret each nodal placement. Following a section on how to calculate one’s North Node and South Node, the authors provide an overview of what the nodes are astrologically and share their personal nodal experiences.

From there, the authors guide readers through the interpretation of the nodal pairs (Aries/Libra, Taurus/Scorpio, Gemini/Sagittarius, Cancer/Capricorn, Leo/Aquarius, and Virgo/Pisces). Each chapter is a thorough navigation of one’s life purpose and personal challenges based on nodal energies in their chart. Readers are offered practical advice on how to harness the energies of the North Node for future growth while understanding and integrating the lessons of the South Node.

The authors do a great job of being clear and concise about how individuals can work with their nodes to achieve balance and fulfillment. At the start, they provide a quick one-sentence overview of mastered traits and traits to learn. Then every pair of nodes is explained in two to three pages of detail. And at the end there’s a bullet point list of ways to keep the North Node and South Node in harmony.

For further guidance, readers can then read the meaning of the houses their nodes fall in by looking up the sign corresponding with those houses. As an example, my North Node is in my 7th house of Aquarius and my South Node is in the 1st House of Leo. After reading the section on the Leo/Aquarius Nodes, I then wanted to learn more about the placement in the 7th and 1st house, which are represented by Aries (1st house) and Libra (7th house), so I turned to that chapter that has the section “Your North Node in Seventh House and South Node in First House.”14 So for each placement, this book really does delve into not just the sign of your nodes, but the significance of the house too.

What I like most about the approach of the authors is the blend of practical guidance with spiritual wisdom. Turner-Schott’s counseling skills shine through, as does Ashman’s many years of spiritual exploration. The past life attributes associated with the South Node placement has been very enlightening for me and helped me to better see some traits of mine in a new light. Reading about my North Node also pointed the path towards things I can continue to work on learning and integrating.

Overall, Astrology’s Magical Node of the Moon offers a compelling and insightful guide to the mystical world of lunar nodes. Turner-Schott and Ashman bring their extensive knowledge and unique perspectives to the table, providing readers with a rich tapestry of insights about their past lives and purpose in their current one. I would recommend this book to both novice and seasoned astrologers that want to better understand the meaning of the nodes in their charts for personal development. While astrology can be complex, this one aspect of the chart reveals a treasure trove of soulful wisdom.

The Easy Way to Learn Astrology, by Alison Chester-Lambert

The Easy Way to Learn Astrology: How to Read Your Birth Chart, by Alison Chester-Lambert
Findhorn Press, 9798888500392, 175 pages, June 2024

As a student of astrology for almost twenty years, I was interested to learn about Alison Chester-Lambert’s teaching style and process, which she calls The Easy Way to Learn Astrology.  Within six chapters, Chester-Lambert breaks down the complex topic of astrology and offers the reader access to a Facebook group and YouTube videos for additional learning aids.

Chester-Lambert first became interested in astrology after reading Linda Goodman’s Sun Signs in the 1970s. She studied astrology at the Faculty of Astrology in London, as well as The Center for Psychological Astrology at Regents College. Later, she earned a master’s degree and took advanced studies in psychology, astrology, and astronomy. After working for over two years with a live, call-in horoscope service, she relocated from London to Tamsworth and began writing columns, doing readings, and teaching. She has founded and runs the Midlands School of Astrology and travels and lectures all over the world.  Chester-Lambert has written three other books and published two decks of cards.  You can learn more about her at her website.

After a brief introduction of polarities, including masculine/feminine, Chester-Lambert presents one of the most complete charts of the zodiac signs I have ever encountered.  In one, easy-to-read table, she shares the yin and yang of the signs, as well as how the elements of fire, earth, air, and water interplay with the twelve signs. She also talks briefly about sun signs and how well-known astrologers and published horoscopes focus on this one aspect of the natal chart:  

“So, what does Sun Sign mean? Before I answer that, I must explain that we have more than one astrology. Many astrologies. Plural. Lots of them.”15

Chester-Lambert goes on to say that each person has a natal chart with twelve houses and twelve signs and that to understand astrology, you may want to focus on more than just your sun sign. This is an important distinction since you will “want to know the psychological meaning of each of the signs and houses…. Just in case you were tempted to go straight to the signs you know and ignore the rest, let me explain that we all have every sign in our birth charts.”16

Next, Chester-Lambert takes us through the four elements of fire, earth, air, and water. She provides keywords for the four elements and then goes into each element, including the three zodiac signs that hold that energy. She then takes us on a deep dive into each zodiac sign and we learn the psychological components, qualities, and characteristics of each sign.

However, I want to point out that she goes into much more depth for each of the four elements than any other book or instructor I’ve encountered. It’s so interesting and I can see how this knowledge forms the foundation for your true understanding of astrology and the natal wheel. She spends almost 100 pages on the elements and signs.

In the last part of her book, Chester-Lambert shares the modalities (cardinal, fixed, and mutable), does a brief review of the elements, and then discusses the importance of opposite signs on the natal chart. She follows this with a discussion of the houses and how the zodiac signs travel around the wheel in counterclockwise fashion, always in the same order. I love how she relates each house to an element and a modality and provides a chart for visual reference.

Each chapter, as well as groups of related chapters, end with a review of the materia– just as you would do in a class. It is so helpful! She also gives a sample reading that is based on a woman’s query. Then she discussed The Cross, which is comprised of the AC (Rising Sign), DC (Descendant), MC (Midheaven) and IC (Imum Coeli) and the importance of the four quadrants that the cross designates. Lastly, she provides us with another sample reading of a birth chart, before telling us that we are now ready to read our own chart.

Chester-Lambert adds resources for creating your own chart online, a complete bibliography, and a detailed Index. Not only does she refer the reader to a website for getting a natal chart, but she also gives detailed instructions for creating the custom chart.  Very few authors do this.

The Easy Way to Learn Astrology would be perfect for anyone who wants to study astrology, from the total newbie to a more seasoned student. I learned so much more about the psychological qualities of each element and sign, as well as the qualities of the houses on the natal wheel. I plan to take a fresh look at my natal chart and review each sign, element, and house.  The information I learned about fire signs alone has given me new clues as to why I act the way I do and how to support myself and my energy levels. I will also share this new information with my clients.

Astrology of the Shadow Self, by Maria D’Aoust

Astrology of the Shadow Self: Working with Oppositions in Your Natal Chart, by Maria D’Aoust
Destiny Books, 164411917X, 352 pages, April 2024

Polarities are what ultimately bring everything into harmony. However, often we wind up focusing on just one side, especially in astrology where everyone wants to read about the specifics of their natal placements, forgetting they are part of a bigger picture and creating an imbalance through neglect of the other half. In Astrology of the Shadow Self: Working with Oppositions in Your Natal Chart, Maria D’Aoust teaches readers how to discover the shadows of their natal places and through this polarity discover wisdom that yields more insight about their strengths and weaknesses.

D’Aoust is a scholar of alchemy, practicing witch, and professional astrologer with over 20 years of experience. She holds a master’s degree in transformation psychology, using her educational background to inform her astrology readings. Her previously published works include The Occult I Ching, Familiars in Witchcraft, A Witch’s Bestiary, and The White Witch Tarot.

In this book, D’Aoust teaches readers about the power of embracing their shadow. In her introduction, she describes how through embracing the “not I” aspects of ourselves, the parts we disown and do not identify consciously with, we can perpetuate oppression, superiority, and victim mindsets–all of which strip ourselves and others of power the more we refuse to acknowledge it.17 It is through embracing these shadow aspects that the full potential of astrology as a tool for healing, self-acceptance, and personal growth can be utilized.

“Here we shall try a new way of dealing with the shadow, the unwanted self, the naughty one. We shall raise it up into power so that it grows and matures. The shadow within us may then ascend and become not a more powerful shadow but rather a more powerful part of our whole self. This prevents the shadow from taking over the self and hiding, lurking in our blind spots, and gives it a chance to actually heal.”18

D’Aoust instructs readers how to create an “antichart”19 where all their natal placements are in the opposite sign and house. This is one’s shadow chart. She also explains how the concept of shadow can be used for transits as well. For instance, when the Sun is transiting Aries, the shadow exploration would be the Sun in Libra. Whether one is curious about their own personal shadow chart or looking to examine the current cosmic influences, D’Aoust’s descriptions of the shadows are a wonderful starting point to further understanding the energy in play.

For each planet–Sun, Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto–D’Aoust profiles the shadow placements of every zodiac sign. Readers are looking up their shadow placement, rather than their natal placement as they explore the book. For instance, in the Mercury chapter, as an Aquarius Mercury natally, the entry pertaining to me would be Leo Mercury Shadow.

Her entries are very thoughtful and provide great insight into the shadow placement. Each entry has the title, a few word description of the shadow, the corresponding birth planet, parasite of the shadow, a two to three page description of the shadow, and an example from nature (almost always a quote) that grounds the shadow in the natural world.

The first thing I did was read all the entries for the planetary placements in my chart, and right after I also created my husband’s shadow chart and read his entries too. Honestly, reading about our shadow placements opened up a whole new level of dialogue for us and it put a lot of things in perspective. Things that we couldn’t articulate, yet were impacting our relationship (habits, communication styles, emotional relating, etc.) were laid out bare for us to reflect on.

It’s extremely evident that D’Aoust has spent so much time exploring these shadow placements and bridges the gap between psychology and astrology in her writing. Plus, the examples from nature are also something both my husband and I found added a beneficial new layer of understanding to the shadow description. When you can see how the energies manifest in the natural world, it puts things into a context that is tangible.

Another really neat way that I’ve engaged with the book’s text is when writing my new moon manifestations. Every month, I’ll write out a manifestation list in my journal, using present tense as always recommended! Usually, I will draw from the traits of the sign the sun/moon are joining in, for instance Aries was the most recent new moon. But this time I decided to instead explore the shadow of the new moon and read about the Libra Sun Shadow and Libra Moon Shadow. Wouldn’t you know it? I was engaging more with the shadow attribute of the new moon (toxic codependency, not clearly verbalizing my true feelings) more than the Aries attributes!

This made me pause and reflect on how I wanted to attune myself to the new moon energy and write my manifestation list. Rather than just putting all Aries qualities, I choose to focus on transforming the shadow qualities coming through the opposing Libra energy. And my manifestation list felt extra powerful! I’m going to continue exploring the shadow for on-going transits to better understand the full-spectrum of the zodiac shadows beyond just what is apparent in my shadow chart.

“Why must we deal with counterforce? We live in a universe that contains opposition as a physical law of reality; nature is always seeking to reach homeostasis and equilibrium. We find peace not by destroying opposition, for this imbalances the scale, causing the weights to swing wildly; we must only equalize and neutralize.”20

My favorite chapter is “Ophiuchus Shadows: The Venom Master” where D’Aoust examines the shadow of this hidden 13th sign, which many astrologers typically do not acknowledge. I have always been fascinated by Ophiuchus though and was thrilled to see it included. As the sign is between Sagitarrius and Scorpio, D’Aoust explains how the shadows fall in the sign of Gemini. So those with prominent Gemini placements, specifically near the Orion constellation, will have the Ophiuchus shadow. Her interpretation for the shadows is briefer than the other planetary shadows, but it gives a good start point to explore. She notes “Placements here are the venom masters and poison artists, usually studying plants, healing, and medicine.”21

The remaining chapters focus on the shadow of the moon’s nodes, thought to correspond to one’s destiny or life purpose, and D’Aoust’s insight on shadow integration. There’s also the bonus of an epilogue all about eclipses and their relation to shadow. This was another favorite chapter of mine since I was immersed in the book leading up to and during the solar eclipse on April 8th. Perfect timing!

Another thing I really enjoy about this book is how D’Aoust draws from different religious traditions when discussing the shadow and the journey one must undergo to integrate it. There’s examples from Taoism, Christianity, Judaism, alchemy, and more. These examples go to show the archetypal nature of shadow work, as well as offering different perspectives about the experience. There’s also a good deal of depth psychology woven in as well.

All in all, Astrology of the Shadow Self is a must-read book for those with an interest in astrology. It was absolutely the best astrology book I’ve read in a while; none of the material was recycled, depicting the same old as countless books out there. This fresh take and unique perspective of the shadow chart was entirely new to me and already the concepts in this book have enhanced my astrology practice and lead to wealth of personal insight. D’Aoust has done a great service to the astrological community in writing such an insightful book. There is so much we can learn from the shadow, and it’s something we must face if we truly want to transform. This book is a wonderful starting point for those ready to explore their own shadow and immensely expand their astrological knowledge.

The Complete Book of Spiritual Astrology, by per Henrik Gullfoss

The Complete Book of Spiritual Astrology, by Per Henrik Gullfoss
Crossed Crow Books, 979-8985628159, 270 pages, October 2022

Those who feel a spiritual calling often need to learn new tools to help guide their journey. Some turn to meditation, others towards tarot or oracle cards, but my favorite way to connect to the divine has always been through astrology. The Complete Book of Spiritual Astrology by Per Henrik Gullfoss is a beautiful book that takes readers on a magnificent journey through the zodiac. This book goes beyond the routine descriptions of the signs and houses, as Gullfoss’s soulful communication style brings readers to new internal awareness that brings them more in touch with the special qualities they carry within.

“Only through being here, in the now, can we learn to thrive and flourish in this new time-space dimension that is opening up for humanity. And of course, the perfect map and tool to find your way through this maze of time and space is the astrological horoscope. The perfect description of how your being is manifested into time and space, and the perfect map for this being to find the magic doors into the eternal now.”22

Gullfoss is the founder of the Nordic School of Astrology, a philosopher, and spiritual guide for many. He has written books on astrology, tarot, and mythology, all with the aim of assisting others to better understand their “soul’s true intention.”23 He kindly shares his own astrological placements with readers at the start of the book, giving them a glimpse into who he is on a soul level, what he desires to communicate, and his unique approach to pursuing his goals

 What stood out for me is how he notes, “My Mercury is also in Taurus, and as such, I want to express and communicate beauty in an equally beautiful, yet practical way.”24 After reading this book, I feel that’s the best way to characterize Gullfoss’s insights–beautiful yet practical. They attune readers to their higher purpose while also providing a grounding foundation from which one can explore the nature of their soul’s intention during this incarnation.

There are four chapters in this book, which all are quite long and have many subsections. And there’s so much covered in each one. Topics in the first chapter, “The Signs”,  range from the houses to how to master astrological qualities. I really enjoyed how he puts things in terms of love, beauty, and joy. The focus for each description is how these aspects of a chart contribute to a soul’s mission of bringing about these things in the world, rather than the more common psychological focus. Gullfoss’s language is so inspiring, as he brings new meaning to the study of astrology, one in which the aim is to find balance and wholeness:

“Just as a human is one being with many shades and sides within the one, the horoscope is also one. The horoscope is primarily a description of an integrated unity. Psychology has divided our inner world into layers and compartments. We have subconsciousness, consciousness, ego, superego, shadow, anima, animus, libido, and so forth. The truth is that the inner space of a human is one. It’s convenient to use these divisions to understand what comprises a human being and their inner world. But as soon as we get a deeper understanding, we see that a being is an undivided whole.”25

Gullfoss gives special attention to the I.C./M.C. axis as well as the Ascendent and Descendent axis. For the I.C., he goes through each sign and describes the fear, the repressed, the reason, and what it means on a soul level to have this placement. Then for the Descendent, he describes the shadow, the dream, the integration, and finally the soul integration. His descriptions were very accurate for me and gave me plenty of food-for-thought about how I relate to others.

In chapter two, “The Planets”, Gullfoss moves through all the planets, providing a description of the energy for them in each element (water, fire, air, earth) and then each quality (cardinal, fixed, mutable). I appreciated this approach because it gave me a better understanding of how the energies blend, instead of trying to hone in on a very specific energy signature (ex. Moon in Scorpio) like many astrologers tend to do. Seeing the planets through this lens softened my stance, as well as opened new doors of perception for my interpretation of the placements in a chart. One of my favorite descriptions was Mercury in Air, part of which reads:

“There needs to be a balance between stillness and through, a gap where inspiration can rise. As strange as it may seem, Mercury in Air needs to surrender to the flow of inspiration and trust the mind of the universe in order to find the way to enlightenment. If it tries to always think and understand, it becomes caught in the outer web of life. It ahs to allow itself to open to the greater mind of the universe, to immerse itself in the collective mind of being.”26

Another really fascinating part of this section was about the rulership of planets. Gullfoss notes the difference between the traditional rule and esoteric ruler. He writes, “The rulers normally work within astrology and are esoterically connected with a person/horoscope operating from the level of ego consciousness. If you start to operate from a level of soul consciousness, there will be a change in rulership for most signs.”27 In revealing the esoteric ruler, I felt Gullfoss was peeling away a layer of the planet to provide more insight on the deeper energetic significance of the planet.

The third chapter, “Aspects”, goes into more nuanced astrology. There’s not really any background information provided for beginners, so it would be good for those unfamiliar with aspects to do a little bit of research on their own. Just like in the former chapters, Gullfoss provides a spiritual perspective in regard to the aspects, going into extra detail about septile and quintile placements. Then he discusses aspects between inner and outer planets and planets in retrograde. This whole section is very helpful for those who already have an understanding of astrology to tune into the energies from a soul level consciousness, embodying a deeper meaning of the planetary relationships in play.

The final chapter “Astrology and Time” is by far the briefest. Gullfoss notes the changing of time in the modern era and asserts “the time has come for a new faculty.”28 He reviews the three steps our consciousness has been built upon–instinct, emotion, and thought–and proposes cultivating intuition as the next stop. He reminds readers, “The only thing you have to do to develop thai reality is to develop your capacity of awareness in every moment – awareness of yourself and awareness of all the smaller aspects of life that you are a part of.”29

Overall, The Complete Book of Spiritual Astrology is perfect for those seeking to learn more about their soul’s purpose in life. Gullfoss does a wonderful job illuminating the multifaceted nature of the astrology chart, providing ample material for readers to reflect on as they continue to cultivate a meaningful spiritual path. Gullfoss’s writing is esoteric and deep while still being extremely applicable to daily life. Beginners and seasoned astrologers alike will benefit from the profound insights and thoughtful reflections about the esoteric nature of astrology.

Astrolations!, by Jill Carr

Astrolations! A Unique Astrological Guide For You and All Your Relationships, by Jill Carr
O-Books, 1803414200, 736 pages, March 2024

Holy moly! It feels only proper to begin a review of Astrolations! A Unique Astrological Guide for You and All Your Relationships by Jill Carr with an exclamation, given that even the title has it in there. I did not expect such a thoroughly engaging and hefty text, but when I opened my package and felt the weight of this book, I knew I was in for a real treat. Carr teaches readers how Western and Chinese astrology blend to provide a well-rounded understanding of the energies of your own astrological signature and that of those in your life. This comprehensive text is sure to shed light on why you are the way you are and how in turn your relationships are energetically with others.

The book begins with a long, long list of birthdates, ranging from January 1900 to February 2032, to help readers figure out their Western and Chinese astrological signature. For Chinese astrology, there is both an animal and element for each year. I quickly scanned all the birthdates to see I am an Aquarius Metal Horse, my husband is an Aries Earth Snake, my son is a Capricorn Water Tiger, and my mother is a Capricorn Earth Dog. While I wanted to quickly skip ahead to read the meaning for each one, I took the slow route and proceeded as planned by Carr through the sections.

In the Western astrology section, Carr covers the four elements, offering key words, the signs of each element, and a description of the essence of each element. She also covers the three qualities–cardinal, mutable, and fixed. There’s a description of how the elements relate to each other in Western astrology, and then she moves onto each sign. For every astrological sign, Carr provides its element and quality, planetary ruler, the part of the body it rules, and an overview of the sign’s attributes.

Next, the Chinese astrology section covers the twelve animals in the Chinese Zodiac, the elements in Chinese astrology, and the interdependence of the elements and how they influence personal relationships. Chinese astrology has a lot more positive/negative aspects, or yin/yang, which Carr covers to give readers a full perspective of how the different zodiac energies, between both the animal sign and element, can manifest. There’s even a helpful little table of the twelve animal signs in just one word for the categories upside, downside, and gone rogue for those looking for quick references to better understand the signs. As someone who has studied Western astrology for years, it does take a bit of time to open to the system of Chinese astrology, but Carr does a good job of breaking the system down into bite-size bits for readers to learn quickly.

The way Carr organizes the rest of the book is going in traditional Western astrological order of Aries to Pisces and covering the Chinese astrology for each sign. Within the section which might be labeled “Aries Dragon” or “Cancer Rat”, Carr breaks it down even further by talking about the elemental nature of the profile too. In regard to the balance of elements, Carr writes:

“Each person has three elements in their basic sign combination: their Western Zodiac sign element; their native element of their Chinese sign; the element of the Chinese sign in their own birth year.”24

Essentially, it’s not about just one element in someone’s astrological signature, rather it’s more about the component of elements and how they work together. Someone could have all fire elements, which can indicate an imbalance of energies, or similarly, they might have elements that neutralize each other and provide balance.

In total, there are 144 Western and Eastern main combination types, and the majority of this book (over 600 pages!) is dedicated to covering each one in regards to compatibility and as a child. For every combination type, Carr provides the element of the Western sign and Chinese sign, plus information on the Chinese element of the year the person’s birth. For instance, my husband is an Aries Snake; there could be an Earth, Metal, Fire, Water, or Air snake, depending on the year of someone’s birth, but he is an Earth snake. She also lists the attributes of the signs (positive/negative, cardinal/fixed/mutable, yin/yang). I found this information helpful because just beginning to understand the energies of the combination helps to attune yourself to the nature of the astrological signature.

Though Carr does provide a good deal of information for each combination, and her keen insights from decades of professional experience in both Western and Chinese astrology are spot-on. She compares and contrasts how the different yearly element will manifest for each combination (i.e. how a Metal Scorpio Horse will different from a Water Scorpio Horse), noting the overall similarities of the combination while also highlighting subtle differences. For every combination, she offers an assessment of their personality overall, how they are as a spouse/partner/significant other, and how they are as a parent/grandparent/sibling/friend/colleague. It’s a great deal of information, but it’s also cramming a lot into a small section (there’s two to three pages for each combination).

The depictions of each combination were spot on as my family sat around reading them aloud to each other. We had quite a few laughs at Carr’s insights due to the accuracy that was easy for everyone to see, even if the person being assessed didn’t like hearing some of their shadow qualities! She nailed me to a tee in the line:

“The Aquarius Horse colleague is a mixed bag of energy, innovation, and inconsistency. They are hardworking and have lots of stamina, but can get carried away by their own enthusiasm at times. The Fire AqH and the Metal AqH in particular enjoy a fast-paced working environment, and become impatient with plodders in the workplace.”25

I really enjoyed the section on the combinations as children since I have a one-year old son. I was amazed by the accuracy of him as a Capricorn Tiger. It literally matches him perfectly, from being on the move EARLY (he started walking at 8 months) to requiring “presence and attention to help them into a sleep routine”30 (he only falls asleep when snuggled or held). I am definitely going to be sharing these insights with friends who have children!

My only complaint is that only the overarching sections are listed in the table of contents, so when you’re looking for a specific combination, you really have to flip through the pages. It can take a minute or two to find what you’re looking for, and I often find myself wishing I could check the table of contents to simply see which page to flip to. However, once you start understanding the general order of things, the flipping becomes easier.

Overall, Astrolations! is an immensely insightful guide to the unique blend of Western and Chinese astrology that shapes personality. Carr does a fantastic job of explaining the two astrological systems and seamlessly blends them together to provide well-rounded portrayals of each combination. This book absolutely will enhance your self-knowledge as well as give you a better understanding of the people in your life. From your significant other to colleagues to siblings and children, you’ll better be able to see the elements that make the person who they are and recognize how your own elemental signature interacts with theirs, fostering new awareness within your relationships.

This book would be great for anyone seeking to learn more about the intersection of Western and Chinese astrology, or for those who simply seek to learn all they can about who they are for personal insight and the meaningful people in their lives to enhance their bonds. And if you’re seeking even more guidance, check out Carr’s website, where she shares regularly on her blog.

Galactic Guides Oracle, by Victoria Maxwell

Galactic Guides Oracle: Be Guided by the Love, Light, and Magic of the Galaxy!, by Victoria Maxwell and illustrated by Ellie Grant
Rockpool Publishing, 1922785415, 144 pages, 36 cards, March 2024

Calling all my cosmos lovers, it’s time to tune into celestial frequencies with Galactic Guides Oracle: Be Guided by the Love, Light, and Magic of the Galaxy! by Victoria Maxwell. This deck is out of this world – literally!

“We often look to the stars, thinking they are so far away and wondering what they have to do with us. They have everything to do with us; we are made of stardust.”31

Maxwell has a talent for attuning oracle card readers to new dimensions. Her previously published decks, Angels Among Us and Goddesses Among Us, are my go-tos when I am in need of some insight. Now with this deck, Maxwell transports readers into the galaxy to connect with the energies of planets, zodiac signs, and star systems for interstellar guidance.

I love what Maxwell shares in her introduction. She describes: “When I stopped focusing on what the planets, constellations and star systems meant according to traditional definitions and simply tuned into their energy, I found I could connect with them on a deeply personal level and invite them to guide me through astrological seasons and moon cycles and help me with what’s happening here on the ground.”32 This appeals to me because as an astrologer I’m always in relationship with the cosmos, yearning to go beyond what I know about each planet from books to create my own energetic connection. This deck is perfect for this purpose.

In the “How to use the cards” section of the guidebook, Maxwell offers different card spreads and describes the difference between the planetary cards, zodiac sign cards, and star system cards. The planetary cards tend to draw attention to something happening here and now that needs your attention; the zodiac sign cards ask you to look at the bigger picture and take a broader perspective; the star system cards have to do with destiny and insight from high-level guides. Additionally, she explains how each card also has an associated element, chakra, crystal, flower, and planet ally that expands the meaning even further. This information adds another layer to readings, though one can certainly glean plenty of insight just from reading the description of each card in the guidebook.

There is just so much guidance for each card! In addition to the aforementioned correspondences, each guidebook entry has an overall message of guidance, questions to ask yourself, description of the card, insight for the five common realms people seek guidance about (love, money, purpose, service, and spirituality), and a message from a lightwork perspective and shadow work perspective. So much insight for each card!

I had an insanely cool synchronicity happen with this deck. I happened upon a list of 100 baby names related to space. My son had a “D” name, so I was looking at other “D” names on the list and came across Draco. I thought it sounded cool, and I was envisioning myself calling my child that, but then told myself to refocus back to working with my deck. I shuffled and then pulled out the card.. Draco! Can you believe it?! The guidebook describes, “Draco, which is Latin for ‘dragon’, is one of hte largest constellations in the sky.”33 To add to the timing, it was also on the Chinese New Year, ushering in the year of the dragon!

I was mostly interested in the the card related to my love life, so I focused on that message in the guidebook, which reads:

“Relationships are the ultimate opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. The people who challenge you may have the most to teach you.”34

This felt extremely resonant, as I was working through some “growing pains” in my current relationship. This card helped me to reframe my perspective and remember that challenges do not mean the relationship isn’t success, rather they present a chance to grow stronger by doing my own inner work and focusing on spiritual growth.

The imagery on the cards, illustrated by Ellie Grant, all feature a person embodying the energy of the planet, zodiac sign, or constellation. They are very accurate, and at times can seem embellished, but I enjoy this because I can study the imagery and see all the attributes and characteristics of each energy personified. The general color theme is what you’d envision for deep space–blues, blacks, purples, greens–along with bursts of colors to make the characters on the cards pop and stand out.

My favorite image in the deck is Saturn, which features a gorgeous elder with striking gray hair. I always get a crone feeling from Saturn, the wise grandmother figure, so I enjoyed seeing Grant portray the energy this way too. Other cards that I got a kick out of include Aquarius, featuring a man who looks like he’s at Burning Man, covered in tattoos, necklaces, a scarf, and reflective sunglasses that flip up to remind us of the third eye. I also love the image of a woman holding her big pregnant belly, wearing a beautiful flower crown, for the Full Moon card. It’s also worth noting this is a very inclusive deck that personifies the energies of a diverse range of people.

My final thoughts about this deck are that it can feel a little ungrounding to work with. For those looking to attune to higher frequencies, it’s perfect! But if you’re not used to working with these energies, you might want to ensure you take the time to ground back in nature after working with the deck. I personally love how the deck gives me an out of body feeling while working with it, but for some this might feel disconcerting. So make sure to take the time to create the right space for working with this deck and balancing yourself afterwards.

Overall, Galactic Guides Oracle is a really amazing way to connect with the celestial energies. Whether you’re looking for inspirational guidance, cool synchronicities, or a fun way to meditate with the energies, this deck has you covered. The imagery on the card does a wonderful job of bringing these energies into a form we can visually identify with, while the guidebook is filled with interesting facts about the stars as well as soulful messages that can help reorient you towards your higher calling. I highly recommend this deck for those who are interested in the myseries of space, the beauty of the stars, and interstellar travel consciousness.

Soul Journey through the Tarot, by John Sandbach

Soul Journey through the Tarot: Key to a Complete Spiritual Practice, by John Sandbach
Destiny Books, 1644117096, 384 pages, November 2023

I’ve been studying tarot for almost 27 years, but these magical cards contain so much wisdom that there is always something new to learn, and I often feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface. Most tarot books on the market tend to be geared towards beginners, rehashing the same sets of keywords and interpretations, so I get excited when I find a text that delves deeper into the esoteric teachings of the cards.

In Soul Journey through the Tarot: Key to a Complete Spiritual Practice, author John Sandbach shares his own unique magical system, co-created with his spirit guides and inspired by over 50 years of studying tarot. Sandbach first channeled these oracles in 1976, and wrote this updated edition with the intention that it will be used as “a tool for vibrational healing.”32

He has named the Major Arcana cards depicted in this book the Azoth Deck, and the illustrations were created by South Korean artist Daehee Son.

“Azoth,” Sandbach says, “refers to the spirit and energy of the planet Mercury, who in Egypt was the god Thoth, who was the inventor of the alphabet—the tarot being an alphabet of spiritual forces.”34

Sandbach has changed some of the traditional names of the Major Arcana. For example, as a departure from the final reckoning of Christianity, Sandbach calls the Judgment card “The Awakening,” a title that he feels more accurately captures the core meaning of Arcanum XX. The Devil, Arcanum XV, has been renamed “The Musician,” to avoid the negative connotations of the original title and shift the focus of the card to the inner harmony or discord of the seeker.

The book’s cover claims that this text integrates “numerology, astrology, Kabbalah, and the contemplative life.”35 I wanted to read this book to get a better grasp of the Kabbalistic Tree of Life and Hebrew letters in relation to tarot, as well as deepen my understanding of the astrological tarot correspondences. However, I was surprised to find that many of Sandbach’s astrological and elemental associations are completely different from the Golden Dawn attributions I currently use, which I learned from The Complete Golden Dawn System of Magic (1984) by Israel Regardie (1907-1985).

Sandbach associates The High Priestess, titled “The Guardian of the Gate (Veiled Isis)”, with Virgo instead of the Moon; The Hermit, titled “The Seeker (The Sage)”, with Aquarius instead of Virgo; The Star, “The Light”, with Gemini instead of Aquarius; and so on.36 The Suit of Coins is assigned the element of Air instead of Earth, and Swords are Earth instead of Air.37 Even though most of these associations don’t resonate with me, I decided to keep an open mind and shift my perspective to include them, at least for the duration of time it took me to read this book.

Sandbach justifies the association of Coins with Air by explaining that exchanging currency for goods is an abstract concept created by the mind, and “the air element resonates with concepts and systems formed through the mental activity of humans.”38 Swords, on the other hand, are practical instruments made of metal, which penetrate the density of matter. These elemental associations have Vedic origins, and relate to the Hindu tattwa system. He borrowed his elemental and astrological associations from The Sacred Tarot by astrologer and occultist C.C. Zain (1882-1951), a work that was a major influence on his approach to tarot.39 Sandbach acknowledges that these are less popular tarot associations, and advises the reader to use whatever correspondences make the most sense to them, because all systems are valid.

“Ultimately,” he says, “we must realize that the four physical elements are not four distinctly different things, but the same thing in different states.”40

This is an excellent point, and it made me more receptive to his alternative elemental associations. 

While I had a hard time connecting with many of these correspondences, the Virgo association with The High Priestess, titled “The Guardian of the Gate (Veiled Isis)” was compelling to me, particularly in how it influenced Sandbach’s interpretation of the card. Virgo rules the digestive system, and the message of the High Priestess is to “be watchful of what you ‘eat,’ whether it be food, thoughts, emotions, concepts, or vibrations.”41 I personally associate The High Priestess with Persephone, whose fast was broken by pomegranate seeds while she was in the Underworld, so the digestion message really spoke to me. The Moon, which is usually the planetary association for this card, is considered to be the ruler of Virgo in esoteric astrology, and knowing this reinforces the validity of Virgo as an alternative astrological association for the High Priestess.

The most unique tarot associations Sandbach gives are spirit names in the intergalactic Language of Space. “This universal constructed language, known as aUI,” Sandbach says, “was originally received from extraterrestrial beings by psychologist and linguist Dr. John Weilgart (1913-1981) in the early 1950s.”42 aUI (pronounced “ah-OO-ee”) is a sound-based language, and the aliens who transmitted it to Dr. Weilgart told him that it had been spoken by Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden.43

Sandbach gives a spirit name in aUI for each major arcana card and supplies the correct pronunciations for the reader. For example, the spirit name for the High Priestess (Veiled Isis) is ytlUkU (pronounced “yit-LOO-koo”).44 Sandbach says these spirit names were channeled by him and belong to entities associated with the cards.

“The letters of aUI and their sounds can be used for contemplation and to make up your own magical words,” Sandbach says.45

What a fascinating concept! Even if a reader doesn’t agree with Sandbach’s tarot associations, the chapter on the Language of Space is intriguing.

I draw a daily tarot card for myself almost every morning, and I decided to apply Sandbach’s interpretations while reading his book. One of the cards I drew was Strength from The Bones Arcana.

Sandbach calls Strength “Arcanum XI: The Maiden (The Enchantress)” and associates her with the planet Neptune. I love the title “The Enchantress,” which brings to mind the Greek witch goddess Circe, daughter of the sun god Helios, who was accompanied by lions in the Odyssey and transformed Odysseus’s crew into pigs. I tend to prefer numbering this card 8 instead of 11 because I associate it with Leo, and the eighth month of August. Sandbach’s Neptune association aligns with the belief of some modern astrologers that Neptune is exalted in Leo.

Sandbach says of “The Enchantress” that “she has gained ascendancy over one of nature’s most powerful creatures, and she has accomplished this through the actualization of her psychic power, as well as through her love.”46 Sandbach’s description of Strength as “the arcanum of psychic power,”47 reminded me again of Witch Queen Circe. In the Odyssey, she was a loner who lived on the uncharted island of Aeaea. She was a master of illusion magic, involving shapeshifting and crafting potions, and she revealed the bestial natures of those who invaded her privacy by transforming them into animals.

All of these skills have a very Neptunian quality to them. Neptune is the hypnotic and bewitching planet of dreams, fantasies, glamor, illusions, mysticism, and drugs (or potions, in Circe’s case). Circe was the daughter of the sun god Helios, and Sandbach says the Sun is the root ruler of this card, while Neptune is the “therapeutic agent.”48 After exploring the Circe connection I made to the Strength card, I appreciate Sandbach’s Neptune association much more. 

Sandbach’s system is a radical departure from what most tarot students are probably familiar with, and this reminds me of the differences between tropical (Western) astrology and sidereal (Vedic) astrology. Western astrology is more popular, but both systems are equally valid. Tarot readers influenced by occultist C.C. Zain will likely resonate with Sandbach’s system, while those who have memorized the Golden Dawn’s tarot associations may find these correspondences a bit more difficult to integrate.

Sandbach claims that the system he uses, which is modeled after Zain’s work, “is a therapeutic or healing system,” while the more common associations, which he says are based on the Kabbalistic text titled the Sepher Yetzirah (the “Book of Formation,” or  the “Book of Creation”), encompass “the root, or actual system.”49 Approaching his associations as a complementary healing system may help readers blend Sandbach’s method with the one they currently use.

Initially I was resistant to the teachings in this book because I was hoping to expand my understanding of the Golden Dawn associations, not learn a completely new system. However, being receptive to correspondences I didn’t agree with and exploring them with open-minded curiosity helped me glean new insights about the cards. I think any experienced tarot reader will benefit from questioning and reevaluating the associations they have memorized by being open to alternative ones or intuitively assigning their own. After all, when used as a tool for spiritual growth, tarot expands consciousness and opens our minds to new possibilities, so the archetypal images have infinite layers of interpretation. In this light, Soul Journey through the Tarot can help seasoned readers rediscover tarot and tap into new ways of relating to the cards.