Musing Mystical

✨ A Gathering Place for Magical Readers and Writers ✨

Tag Archives: oracle review

Numerology Oracle, by Rosemaree Templeton

Numerology Oracle, by Rosemaree Templeton
Rockpool Publishing, 192257953X, 96 pages, 36 cards, October 2024

Numerology Oracle by Rosemaree Templeton is an intriguing exploration into the mystical world of numerology, offering readers oracle guidance to understanding and utilizing the power of numbers in their daily lives. Templeton, an experienced numerologist, shares insight that is both accessible and engaging, appealing to both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts of numerology.

“Just as our earth is a living, vibrating being, everything on it or in it is also living and vibrating at its own individual frequency. This includes our spirit friends — seen and unseen. Aso9i with all things in this universe, each of these spirit beings can be aligned with a number.”1

This deck really pops with its bright colors and intricate patterns. The card’s images feature intricate patterns of animals, ranging from monkeys to whales, unicorns to ladybugs. The color and animal have significances that blend together to lend another layer of meaning to each card that the reader is intended to intuitive. The number of the card stands in contrast to the pattern in big, bold, black text. The number is also written on the top and bottom of the card along with a one or two word card title. The cards are stimulating, so this something to keep in mind when working with the deck.

The guidebook is structured in a way that gradually introduces the reader to the fundamental concepts of numerology. Templeton shares how the deck came to be, a background on numerology, how to use the cards, and spreads that work well for the deck. There’s also a quick meditation offer for readers to get in a good frame of mind for reading the cards.

One thing that’s really interesting about this deck is that the numbers are not in chronological order. There are five card types: numerology, karmic, abundance, archangel, and ascended master cards. Templeton has chosen to separate numbers into these different categories based on her knowledge of the each number’s energetic frequency. This was a novel approach to numerology, and I think it makes for a real interesting oracle read.

Since the numbers do not go in order, readers need to rely on the table of contents in the guidebook to find their entry, or otherwise they can simply flip through until they find it. Every entry in the guidebook has a two-page of guidance bout the card’s message, but the focus of the messages change based on the category of the card.

The numerology card descriptions focus on why the reader may have pulled the card and actions it would be good, often involving working with or wearing a certain color. The archangel and ascended master card entries share about the energy of these divine beings, how they are showing up to support the reader, and insight on how to  work with them. The karmic cards entries focus on areas of personal development on a soul-level, while the abundance cards share the wisdom gained from the symbols of wealth depicted on the card.

Templeton doesn’t really delve into why the number is representative of each energy, rather she focuses on communicating the energy in the form of an oracle guidance. Her style writing is clear and concise, making the message of each card very easy to understand and integrate into one’s life. She often offers a practical application for the card, opening readers to applying numerological concepts to real-life situations. This hands-on approach helps to reinforce learning and encourages readers to trust their intuition as they delve deeper into the world of numerology.

Overall, Numerology Oracle is a valuable resource for anyone interested in exploring the mystical and empowering world of numerology. Templeton successfully conveys the transformative potential of numerology as a tool for personal growth and self-discovery. With its blend of insightful theory and practical application, the book is sure to inspire readers to look beyond the ordinary and embrace the magic of numbers in their lives.

Sisters of the Fae Oracle Deck, by Ashley Frost

Sisters of the Fae Oracle Deck, by Ashley Frost and illustrated by Leah Shoman
Sacred Scribe Publishing, 9798987986653, 33 cards, 80 pages, 2024

In creating Sister of the Fae Oracle Deck, Ashley Frost and Leah Shoman have combined ethereal artwork with messages from the divine wisdom of fairies. Each card is a little work of art, which has been placed inside a floral frame. I was drawn to the deck because of the fairy reference and the beautiful images on the cards. The energy of this deck is light and airy with gorgeous, whimsical images and a beautiful typeface.

Ashley Frost is a mystic, women’s circle leader, and space holder for the divine feminine.  As a bridge between worlds, Frost is a Spirit messenger and loves to help other women connect as well. She has co-created two other oracle decks and co-founded a women’s group on Youtube called Boo Babes.  She is a wife, a mom to three daughters and also loves to write poetry and sing.

Leah Shoman is a crystal energy healer, publisher, author, and deck creator, who brings guidance from Spirit to her clients and readers. She has published numerous decks and books. She also has an online crystal shop where she offers crystals sourced from around the world. You can learn more about her work here.

These cards are standard oracle card size and come with a companion guidebook. They have a matte finish that beautifully complements the images of women, fairies, flowers, and birds. The cards are a nice thickness and will stand up to repeated shuffling. I especially like how the cards and guidebook fit nicely into the very sturdy box, which has a type of double insert that provides extra support and a thin box top that slides over the cards.

I appreciate that every card is numbered because the guidebook is not arranged alphabetically. You have to look up the card in the guidebook by number by the table of contents. In addition to the guidebook entry for each card, Frost includes an introduction, guidance on how to use the cards, and three different spreads. The guidebook is printed in full color with a serif font that adds a feminine touch to the verbiage. I love Frost’s suggestion for working with this deck:

 “Work with the fae for inner child healing and embrace a joyous, limitless perspective on your spiritual journey . . . Connect with fairies to unlock soul codes and unearth wisdom.”2

One extra card is included with the deck, which I saw as a type of invocation or prayer. You can read this card before doing a reading to set the tone or invite the fairy realm to enter your space. Here is just one portion of that message:

“We send this creation into your hands with love and an intention of remembrance. We bring this to you so you may find the beauty within Mother Earth while also seeing beyond the mundane and connecting with your fairy guides.”3

To get started, I pulled a single card for myself and drew “Magnolia Mirror.”  The guidance reminded me to “look within and see what has been working as a mirror within your life and what has been triggering you.”4 It then followed with the reminder, “Triggers are mirrors and they are gifts. They show us where we are not free within our own journey.”5

I took the advice and went out on my patio with my journal. I asked the fairies to show me triggers that were robbing me of joy.  Very quickly, three situations came to mind and I wrote and wrote and then released the energy into my favorite tree. So very healing!

Next, I FaceTimed with one of my friends and asked if I could pull a card for her.  After a quick shuffle, I drew the card “Earthly Realms.”  As I began sharing the guidance from the book, my friend threw back her head and began to laugh.  She lives by a park in our little town and has been thinking about going over to walk the trails.  She says every day dawns and then ends, but she stays inside.  This was the encouragement she needed to get out and enjoy nature!

Later, when I went to my local coffee shop to pick up a latte and one of their delicious scones, the girl who took my order recognized me from my Friday cards group. She asked if I had any cards with me. I happen to have Sisters of the Fae in my bag!  She drew the card “Saffron Fields,” and as she read the guidance, I could tell she was tearing up from this message:

“The energy of the saffron is softly embracing you, giving you permission to release. Allow those tears to flow. You have been holding on to this for far too long. It is safe to let this go. Your tears are so magical. It is healthy to cry and once released, you will feel as light as an airy fairy.”6

What a beautiful message for this woman, who had shared with me on more than one occasion that she is a mom to three children, goes to school, and works full time. Quite a lot from one woman to handle! The fairies gave her permission to lay down her burdens and have a good cry! How magical!

I would recommend Sisters of the Fae Oracle Deck for both novice and experienced card readers. The guidance is so soft and gentle, yet it comes through with clear and direct messages of love and support from the fairies.

Mystic’s Imaginarium Oracle Deck, by Jen McCarty

Mystic’s Imaginarium Oracle Deck, by Jen McCarty with illustrations by Stephanie Wicker-Campbell
Muse Oracle Press, 0645885061, 90 pages, 44 cards, November 2024

Mystic’s Imaginarium Oracle Deck by Jen McCarty, with illustrations by Stephanie Wicker-Campbell, is a captivating and insightful tool for deepening one’s metaphysical understanding of the world, specifically through the teachings of Neville Goddard. Creator Jen McCarty, who also published Little Book of Neville Goddard Quotes, has dedicated herself to sharing the impactful wisdom of Goddard. This unique deck is comprised of cards that offer oracle insights based on Goddard’s teaching, further illuminating his spiritual insights and presenting the one(s) most relevant to the reader at any given moment.

“If you commit to working with this oracle deck, you will grasp Neville’s core foundational teachings, and they will assist you in transforming your limited beliefs, becoming one with your higher self, and manifesting the life of your greatest imaginings.”1

One of Goddard’s core beliefs was that human imagination is God, and therefore, individuals can manifest their desires into reality through the power of thought and belief. This belief is reflected in the title of this deck, Mystic’s Imaginarium Oracle Deck, which awakens the subconscious and helps readers to remember the potency of their mind.

The deck’s artwork is truly a feast for the eyes, which quite literally appear in quite a few cards’ imagery. Stephanie Wicker-Campbell’s illustrations are filled with vibrant colors and intricate details, each card telling its own story through a blend of mystical and fantastical themes. Blending themes of pyramids, the cosmos, and natural landscapes into surreal art, this deck opens the portals of the imagination. The imagery is not only visually appealing but also deeply symbolic, inviting users to delve deeper into their subconscious and explore the messages within.

Goddard’s teachings are vast and wonderful, yet can sometimes feel antiquated or hard to understand. McCarty’s insights based on his work, on the other hand, are very relatable to the modern day reader and serve a wonderful stepping-stone for those who seek to learn more about Goddard.

Within the guidebook, McCarty has crafted each entry with the love and care of a true spiritual devotee, offering interpretations of Goddard’s teaching that are both profound and accessible. In reading her interpretations of the cards, it’s clear McCarty really reflected deeply on Goddard’s messages, integrated them on a soul level, and thoughtfully interpreted them into oracle form for the reader. Her writing encourages introspection and personal growth, making the deck a valuable tool for metaphysical exploration.

For each entry, there’s the image of the card, a quote from Goddard, McCarty’s interpretation of the card, and occasionally a one-sentence message of empowerment.

For instance the first card I pulled from this deck was Awaken to Christ Consciousness. McCarty writes how this card “boldly asserts that Christ cannot be confined within the boundaries of historical records or external rituals. Instead, it assets that the true revelation of Christ occurs when we recognize the transformative potential of our own imagination.”5 McCarty recommends visualizing one of my greatest heart’s desires after pulling this card, as I’m in the process of a huge transformation that brings more of my higher self into the physical material world.  The entry further states:

“When it appears in a reading, it serves as a powerful reminder of our true identity. We are reminded that we are potent creative forces – fractals of divine source energy.”7

And quite honestly, the reading was spot-on! I do feel like I’m going through a metamorphosis, and this card was a wonderful reminder to tap into my spiritual nature more to guide the process. I also enjoyed how McCarty mentioned connecting with Christ outside the bounds of history or ritual, as I’ve grown away from my Catholic spiritual origins yet still feel like there’s a lot of spiritual potential in forming a deeper relationship with Christ consciousness.

One of the best features of this deck is its versatility. It can be used for daily inspiration, meditation, or as a supplement to other practices like manifestation or creative projects. The cards encourage users to feel confident in their spiritual nature, prompting them to examine outdated beliefs and consciously choose to embrace their higher self by aligning their mind with God.

Overall, Mystic’s Imaginarium Oracle Deck is a testament to the collaborative creativity of McCarty and Wicker-Campbell. This oracle deck offers a harmonious balance of visual artistry and spiritual insight, making it a wonderful companion for anyone seeking to enhance their connection with the mystical aspects of life. Whether you’re an experienced oracle reader or a curious spiritual explorer, Mystic’s Imaginarium Oracle Deck is sure to inspire and guide you on your path by opening you to the wisdom of mystic Neville Goddard. This deck is a beautiful blend of spiritual guidance and artistic expression, making it a unique addition to any collection.

The Oracle of Awakening, by Lalania Simone

The Oracle of Awakening, by Lalania Simone
Weiser Books, 9781578638628, 112 pages, 44 cards, October 2024

In stunning The Oracle of the Awakening, the creator Lalania Simone has gifted the world with her guidance, her art, and her magic. From the first time you look at the box cover and its purple foil accents, you know that something special is inside.

Lalania Simone is an indigenous artist, metalsmith, author and creator of tarot and oracle decks.  She has written a book called Urban Soul Warrior: Self-mastery in the Midst of the Metropolis and created two tarot decks.  She currently runs a spiritual boutique called Alchemy Ritual Goods. In this shop she and her partner provide acupuncture/herbs, traditional spiritual healing practices, Usui Reiki, and several types of divination. Simone also creates custom jewelry pieces. You can learn more about Simone on her website.

The guidebook features an introduction which shares:

“The Oracle of awakening was created with the intention of bringing the energy of unconditional love to each person who works with these cards.”8

Simone features a combination of digital art and collage “filled with high-frequency energy and intention.”9 She shares a simple section on using the cards and two spreads. I really liked the spread called “Inner Alignment.”  With four cards, you can get clarity around these key questions:

  1. What do you need to balance? 
  2. What do you need to accept? 
  3. What do you need to release? 
  4. Message advice from spirit.

The guidebook is printed in black and white with a thumbnail and two to three pages of guidance for each card.  Simone includes a one sentence summary of the overall message of the card, key words, and then shares guidance. Some cards include a clearing exercise, while others feature a practice or meditation that compliments the guidance. She also shares an affirmation for many of the cards.

The cards and guidebook are encased in a sturdy box with purple metallic stamping for the type and a beautiful, lacy dragonfly. The cards are a nice weight for shuffling and are a standard oracle deck size at 4 X 5.5”. The colors of the cards are designed with vibrant jewel tones and purple metallic edges.

A variety of plants, people, animals, and symbols fill the cards from Simone’s rich heritage. In addition to her mother’s Mexican history and her father’s Puerto Rican roots, Simone can trace her family back to fifteen different regions of the globe.

To test the deck, I pulled cards for myself each day for three days. It was amazing how the guidance from the guidebook spoke to me. Also, the images on the photos evoked memories or feelings from my past and gave me a way to peel back the layers of feelings and receive healing.

For example, the first day, I pulled the card “Download.”  The woman featured on the card really spoke to me, reminding me of my younger self. The guidance reminded me that the Universe is always guiding me, sending me signs and messages. Lately, I’ve become a little jaded and perhaps not as open to guidance from my own team. This card was the wake up call I needed!

Next, I shared the deck with my friends at my Coffee & Cards group.  One friend pulled the “Fierce-Stand in Your Power” card and said right away that it really resonated with her. “This card for whatever reason has reminded and rekindled the fierce side of me that I can tap into!”

Another friend drew the “Clearing” card, which suggested taking time to “purify, refresh and fortify.”  She shared: “Perfect guidance for the situation I had in mind when I chose the card. Sometimes we need to be reminded to clear negativity instead of feeding it. Was just the validation that I needed.”

And a third friend pulled the card entitled “Gentleness,” which featured the key words “compassion, kindness and soft.” Not only did she love the message she received, but she had this to say about the deck:

“I feel this deck is not only a perfect fit for those who are initially awakening to their intuitive abilities, but also for those who are attuning and integrating the expansion of their intuitive abilities. These cards are so beautiful and are energetically radiant with a centered calm for the inner turmoil and chaos.”

I agree totally with my friend on that note!  As you glance through the deck, you see beautiful images, including flowers, exotic animals, and unusual fruit or plants, not to mention the strong women from many different cultures. Each image evokes a memory or a desire to learn more about the symbol or feeling that floats in.

The Oracle of Awakening would be great for anyone who loves and uses an oracle deck for daily divination. The warm, bright colors are so beautiful and life affirming. The symbolism is rich and multi-layered.  I plan to keep this deck on hand to use as a way to close readings that I do for clients. I’ll also put it in my bag for my Friday group, due to the great response from my friends.

Shamanic Star Wisdom Oracle, by Lisa Biritz

Shamanic Star Wisdom Oracle, by Lisa Biritz and illustrated by Petra Kühne
Earthdancer Books, 9798888501214, 112 pages, 44 cards, September 2024

With her oracle card deck, Shamanic Star Wisdom Oracle, Lisa Biritz has captured concepts and guidance from many of the cultures around the world and the cosmos. This deck is bright and light and carries healing wisdom for life here on earth.

Lisa Biritz, born in Amsterdam and raised in the US and Europe, studied journalism in Boston and built a successful career writing and editing magazines. She has written two books, created two oracle decks, and continues to enjoy writing. While in college, she delved into shamanism, Mayan wisdom, Buddhism, and Hawaiian Huna, and she is also trained in Reiki, Ho’oponopono, shiatsu, and yoga. Passionate about the ocean and dolphins, she has spoken at the UN about their significance and takes people on transformative journeys with marine life in Hawaii, where she lives with her family, dividing her time between Hawaii and Europe.

As a small child, illustrator Petra Kühne started capturing the beauty of nature through her paintings. After studying sociology, she worked for a publishing house, illustrating cards for Chuck Spezzano’s works and later creating the Oracle of the Birds card deck. Now a full-time freelance illustrator living in Germany, Kühne views her imaginative and spiritual artwork as a way to share inner, archetypical realities with the world.

What attracted me to this deck was the cover art, which features a priestess or shaman communing with our galaxy of planets and stars. Who among us has ever looked to the heavens for answers? Our ancient ancestors knew that our origins lie in the stars. This card set, based on ancient shamanic traditions, was created to assist you in discovering insights into your cosmic connections.9

In her introduction, Biritz gives the reader information on many of the indigenous people, including those from Hawaii, Australia, Ireland and Greece. She briefly discussed human DNA and how that might tie-in with other life forms from our solar system. Biritz invites you to learn more about yourself and our entire universe. She covers various star systems such as Pleiades, Sirius, Orion and Andromeda. She also includes notes about the Hopi, the Maya and shamanic wisdom.

I found it interesting that she included many of the “so called ‘negative aliens’”10.  She talks about how people are afraid of these beings and provides information on how to protect yourself from their dark energies. She also discusses implants and how to free yourself.

 Biritz includes two different ways to work with the cards, from selecting a card for the day to pulling out 14 special cards that represent the 14 star groups and working only with those cards. Within the section that includes the card guidance, Biritz shares background on the star being or cosmic or spiritual aspect reflected on the card, as well as an exercise for working with the energy of the card’s focal point.

For some cards, Biritz includes a special section for helping the reader ascertain if they might be one of the star beings featured. For example, for the card called “Andromedans,” she has a section called “How to tell if you are an Andromedan starseed.”11 Here, she lists qualities or life experiences that may mean that you are aligned with the energy of the given star being.

On another card called “Happiness and Joy,” the author shares “How to bring happiness into your life.”12 For each card, Biritz provides what she calls an “Exercise,” which is peaceful, soothing verbiage that you can record and playback for a relaxing meditation.

For example, I drew the card “DNA Stimulation.” I recorded the exercise and then stepped out onto my patio to enjoy a few quiet moments.  The meditation invited me to relax my body and my brain and then ask my brain “to stimulate and activate the dormant DNA in your body.”13 After I finished the meditation, I sat for a while and listened to the birds and felt the cool breeze on my face.  It was exhilarating!

Kühne’s illustrations are galactic, cosmic and truly out of this world. The star beings are depicted as sweet, loving creatures in vivid, rich colors. I connected with many of the images and especially loved the artwork for “Star Child Awakening” and “Happiness and Joy”.

The cards are the standard size for oracle cards at 4” X 5.5” and come with the same size guidebook in a nice sturdy box. The cards are a nice weight and shuffle easily.

I shared the cards with my weekly card group and one friend drew the “Angels” card.  She said that the message really resonated for her, as she has spent the last few weeks getting her son ready to go off to college.

“I’ve called on my angels several times for support. This card really resonates with me, because it’s confirmation that they are really here to help me during this time.”

Another friend drew the card “Cleansing External Energies.” She related that she loved the message, which was a reminder to cleanse her energy after being out in public with a lot of people. She also said that she had been taking more baths lately and now she knew why. She took a photo of the exercise, which included a visualization of cleansing with water, when getting to a bathtub or shower is impractical at that moment.

Shamanic Star Wisdom Oracle would be perfect for anyone who is interested in learning more about beings in our galaxy and beyond. I plan to keep the deck close by for working with clients who have an interest in claiming their heritage as a certain type of starseed or star being.

Seasons of the Witch – Lammas Oracle, by Lorraine Anderson and Juliet Diaz

Seasons of the Witch – Lammas Oracle, by Lorriane Anderson and Juliet Diaz with illustrations by Tijana Lukovic
Rockpool Publishing, 1922579777, 160 pages, 44 cards, July 2024

Season of the Witch – Lammas Oracle by Lorraine Anderson and Juliet Diaz, with illustrations by Tijana Lukovic, is a captivating addition to Seasons of Witch oracle deck sires, particularly for those who resonate with the themes of the Wheel of the Year. As the seventh one released in the collection, this oracle deck is centered around Lammas, a festival celebrating the first harvest, and it weaves together the wisdom and spirit of this sacred time.

I always look forward to a new Seasons of the Witch deck because I love how perfectly Anderson, Diaz, and Lukovic capture the energy of the sabbats. There’s repeating patterns I’ve noticed in the decks–the foiled edges, the artistic style, and the uplifting messages focused on self-reflection and personal growth. Yet for each deck, the creators have drawn upon energies related to the time of the year and centered the guidebook messages and artwork around that theme. In the introduction, they write:

“We have decided to reclaim this sabbat as the energy of the boss witch and created this deck to support you in becoming the CEO of your life. It doesn’t matter whether you start a business or not, because it isn’t about the hustle but about taking control of your life and being brave enough to chase after your desires.”1

I feel like this energy matches Lammas since it’s always a season when I start feeling called to get things organized and prepared for the coming winter. I start noticing what’s been working this year through spring and summer, harvesting what’s cropped up with intentions of planting again next year, as well as what needs to be weeded to create more room for growth. And clearly the creators were also thinking in terms of vegetation as there’s a strong farm theme within the imagery of the deck.

The deck is comprised of 44 exquisitely illustrated cards, each adorned with Lukovic’s thoughtful artwork. The illustrations are rich with symbolism and gentle colors that evoke the essence of the end of summer and the bountiful harvest it provides. Images of fruit trees, sunflowers, bushels of apples, and corn connect readers to the abundance of the natural world during this time.

Lukovic’s art does more than merely decorate; it captures the Lammas theme of community, gathering the crops, and enjoying the final golden days of summers swimming and going to the county fair. Looking through the deck, one feels the mixture of work it has taken to get this far alongside the release that comes from finally being able to reap the benefits of what’s been toiled for. While the deck draws upon an idealization of a simple life (the images looks very relaxing and old-timey), I love how the cards bring forth the gratitude and appreciation for what has come to friction during Lammas, reminding the reader of pleasures of enjoying the bounty that’s been cultivated with care, intention, and love.

The guidebook that accompanies the deck is equally impressive, offering clear and insightful interpretations for each card, along with practical advice on how to incorporate the messages into one’s daily life through oracle spreads such as Sunflower Cross Spread, Prayers to the Earth Spread, and Vegetable Garden spread. The authors also suggest pulling a daily card, picking a guiding light card for the month, and creating a Lammas altar. There’s even a QR code for readers to scan to learn more about Lammas correspondences for their altar creation.

The deck’s messages are uplifting and empowering, emphasizing themes of gratitude, abundance, and the cyclical nature of life. For every entry in the guidebook, the authors offer key words, a summary sentence (the same message on the card itself), and insight into the card’s meaning. For some entries there are also additional rituals, meditations, recipes, or spells too.

My favorite card in the deck that I’ve pulled so far is Welcoming the Harvest. The image on the card is of a woman sitting on the back of a truck whose bed is filled to the brim with flowers, vegetables, and fruits. The amber waves of grain sway around her as black birds circle above in the blue sky. She sits and enjoys a bite of an apple, eyes closed as she savors the moment. The card reads:

“Expect growth and expansion, as your hard work has paid off. It’s time to celebrate!”14

The keywords for this card in the guidebook are “results, return on investments”15. And for the interpretation, the authors describe how this card symbolizes being on the right path and heading towards success in both short-term gains and long-term investments. It felt like such a great affirmation for the work I’ve been doing recently, and I was thrilled to read the line, “Your determination, focus and drive are fueling excellent results.”16 I’ve been giving it my all and this was confirmation that what I’m doing is all worthwhile.

One thing I really also like about this deck is that while the deck holds the seasonal energy of Lammas, the authors encourage readers to work with this deck throughout the year too for certain endeavors. They suggest working with this deck when coming into a leadership position, if one is a business owner or team leader, to raise one’s standards or bring in a higher level of self-worth, when coinciding long-term investments, and to make “boss or high-level moves.”17 So if any of these themes feel relevant to you, this would be a great deck to work with year-round to tap into your inner wisdom and gain guidance.

For anyone seeking to attune their oracle readings to the rhythms of the natural world and wheel of the year, Season of the Witch – Lammas Oracle is a beautifully crafted tool that offers both inspiration and guidance. Anderson and Diaz have once again done an amazing job bringing forth the energy of a sabbat into meaningful and thoughtful oracle cards, while Lukovic’s artistic interpretation of the messages makes this deck a pleasure to work with. Readers of all levels will enjoy the feelings of plenty and abundance infused in this deck, especially those who enjoy the grounded, down to earth feeling of being connected to nature.

Sock Monkey Oracle, by Shannon Grissom

Sock Monkey Oracle, by Shannon Grissom
Beyond Words,1582708592,  46 cards, 128 pages, April 2022

Looking for a fun and silly oracle deck to put a smile on your face? Sock Monkey Oracle by Shannon Grissom is sure to do the trick! Grissom shows us sock monkeys, a beloved toy handmade from socks, are more than cherished gifts or keepsakes; they can be a source for inspiration and guidance too. 

The history of the sock monkey is an interesting one. They became popular during the Great Depression when crafty people were looking for ingenious ways to make toys for their children. Now, sock monkeys are a reminder that even with the limited materials on hand during tough times, we can find color and joy to uplift our spirits.

Grissom describes how she was inspired to make this deck after she created a sock monkey painting in honor of her loving mother who had passed away. In sorting through her mother’s belongings, she found her mother’s sock monkey, and later decided it was the perfect symbol to paint in tribute to her loving mother. After this first painting, she continued to create 45 more through the years, leading to 46 paintings in total for this oracle. It took some time, but eventually the messages for each painting came to Grissom, finally completing the deck!

There are four spreads that Grissom shares that readers can choose from (my favorite is the seven-card Messy Sock Drawer Spread!), but she also assures readers there is no wrong way to use the deck. She encourages paying extra attention to jumping and revered cards, noting “these lively sock monkeys are merely trying to get you to pay special attention to their guidance.”18

For every card, Grissom offers a main message, symbolic frolic, and affirmation. The symbolic frolic are symbols that you can reflect on, or as Grissom describes play with, to effect change. The messages are overall positive, but not to the extent of ignoring setbacks or unpleasant feelings. Some of the cards do denote a challenge or obstacle to overcome, but the messages always provide uplifting guidance and solutions to help readers gain perspective about how they can preserve.

The cards themselves are very bright and colorful! There is such a cheerfulness to the sock monkeys; their big red lips with pleasant smiles immediately makes me want to smile right back! Grissom has really given life to the sock monkeys, making them feel lively and never static; Some images are more relaxed, while others are dynamic, but you feel their presence in every card. The full-range of colors in the deck add to its vivid, animated energy.

Every card is numbered and the name of the card is written in a very big font at the bottom, making it easy to find the card’s corresponding message in the guidebook. You can sense that each sock monkey has its own personality, and the guidebook messages perfectly align with the image on the card. If you’re more of an intuitive reader, the name of the card and the imagery is more than enough detail to gather insight and answer your questions that way.

Twice in a row I have pulled the same card: Make Music. The card depicted the sock monkey hanging out with an accordion, as though about to play it. When I followed up by reading the guidebook, which stated:

“Making music has so many benefits. First and foremost, it’s fun! It also helps you be more alert, lowers your blood pressure, and calms anxiety. Music gets the good jujus going and keeps them going.”19

And guess what happened not too long after I pulled this card? My husband asked if I wanted to go sing karaoke for a date that night! I clearly, immediately said “Yes!”, and then I told him about how I had just pulled a sock monkey oracle card encouraging me to make music and use my voice. What are the chances?!

We had a wonderful time belting out tunes together. Then when I pulled it again the next day, my husband said, “I guess you have some more kaoroke-ing to do!”. He made me laugh, but it did feel as though the sock monkeys were saying to keep the momentum going and continue to find my rhythm and voice. Having the courage to sing aloud, without worry about how I sound, gives more confidence to more freely express my opinion and thoughts with others – something I could definitely use some work on!

All in all, Sock Monkey Oracle is a fun, lighthearted deck that is exciting to use. The messages are meaningful without being too bogged down with over-elaboration. The sock monkeys absolutely have a special essence that Grissom has done a truly wonderful job communicating for readers through her artwork and guidebook messages. Whether you’re a sock puppet enthusiast or simply enjoy their uplifting energy, this deck will assist you in embodying their sweet, playful spirit in your life.

Oralce of the Birds, by Jeanne Roland and Petra Kühne

Oracle of the Birds: A 46-Card Deck and Guidebook, by Jeanne Ruland and illustrated by Petra Kühne
Findhorn Press, 1644119617, 112 pages, 46 cards, October 2023

I recently read The Madonna Secret by Sophie Strand, and in this book, the main character Miriam often receives guidance from the natural world, especially birds. This got me thinking about my own relationship with birds and questioning “Have I been pausing to appreciate them and hear their message?” Honestly, I had not been paying much mind to the birds, so I started to become more aware of the birds around me–when they appear, how they make me feel, and the tone of their chatter.

Soon after, I noticed the Oracle of the Birds by Jeanne Ruland, and I felt prompted to delve deeper into my bird explorations. This gorgeous deck, illustrated by Petra Kühne, shares the spiritual messages from a variety of birds, providing meaning and affirmations for me to explore, and it has brought a new appreciation for birds into my life. Ruland reminds us:

“They touch our soul. Our soul is like them–free, fluidly connected, unique, and yet belonging to Heaven.”20

This deck consists of 46 cards, which are mostly birds, but also include some mythical bird figures (Ba, Garuda) and bird-related items (Egg, Nest, Feather). From the largest bird (Ostrich) to the tiniest bird (Hummingbird), the wide range of birds in this deck spans the globe.

Kühne has done an amazing job bringing these birds to life on the cards. Flipping through the deck and looking at the images, I feel a subtle humming in my hands, as though the spirits of the birds are being infused right into my soul. The deck is bright with each bird in their own colorful habitat. My favorite part about Kühne’s design is the patterns and sacred geometry patterns shining through softly in the background, reminding me of the divinity of these birds.

On each card is the name of the bird, a few keywords, and then a sentence or two of guidance. This makes the cards wonderful to use on an altar space or simply keep out for the day to glance at for inspiration. The back of the cards is the same for the whole deck, but it also has an encouraging message that reminds readers to keep their gaze uplifted.

The guidebook is short and sweet in its introduction to the cards, quickly delving into the card profiles, which are organized alphabetically. Every description includes a title, image of the card, meaning of the card, message from the bird’s magic feather, list of additional meanings, and an affirmation.

I appreciate how for each card meaning Ruland takes the time to describe how the bird enters your life. For instance he writes, “Death-defying, the falcon plunges into your energy field to hunt demons.”21 Meanwhile, he describes how Goose “comes waddling into your life and enables you to recognize the deep truth of things.”22 His descriptive writing is a portal for the bird’s energy, and I enjoy the sensation of feeling and imagining the way the bird of the day enters during my daily pull to share their insight.

This week I keep pulling the same card, and clearly I feel like I’m being sent a message with the consistency of it appearing day after day, even with multiple shufflings. The card is Garuda, who Ruland describes as “a mythical and immortal messenger of light from the Upper World.”23

The overall message from this card is centered on me opening up to messages from higher realms, listening to my heart, and trusting the guidance of the divine, while remembering that I am a source of light. I really resonate with Garuda, especially how Ruland interprets the card as a sign to focus on my own spiritual development and “connection to the existence of creation.”24

As much as many of us strive to be grounded, this deck reminds us that sometimes we need to let our spirits fly high for a new perspective. Ruland has attentively channeled the wisdom of birds into affirming messages that shift our gaze towards the sky and bring new insights. The imagery created by Kühne transports us into new habitats and states of mind, gleaming with elegance, grace, and possibility.

Overall, Oracle of the Birds is an excellent resource for anyone looking to deepen their spiritual practice and connect with the natural world. The beautiful artwork and insightful messages make it a joy to work with, and the guidance and wisdom of the birds can help you discover insights on your spiritual path. Whether you’re looking for clarity, guidance, or inspiration, this deck can help you connect with the energy of birds and tap into their powerful wisdom.

Lucid Dreaming, Lucid Living, by Norma Burton and Nisha Burton

Lucid Dreaming, Lucid Living: Your Oracle & Guide to Mastering the Dreamscape, by Norma J. Burton & Nisha Burton
Red Wheel, 1590035380, 200 pages, 44 cards, September 2023

If you have ever had the wild experience of knowing you were dreaming within a dream, and then discovered that you had the ability to manipulate the dream world with your thoughts, then you have tapped into the latent power of lucid dreaming. Lucid dreaming is a potent therapeutic practice that can reduce stress, improve memory, and assist in shadow integration, healing trauma, and overcoming addiction. Lucidity also enhances personal empowerment by bringing mindfulness and a greater sense of agency to both dreams and waking reality. The average person has three to seven oneiric visions a night, but 95 percent of these experiences are forgotten upon waking.22 Fortunately, dream recall is a skill that can be strengthened with practice, and the Lucid Dreaming, Lucid Living oracle teaches dreamers how to achieve conscious awareness and navigate their dreamscapes with intention.

Lucid Dreaming, Lucid Living: Your Oracle & Guide to Mastering the Dreamscape is a collaborative project created by Norma and Nisha Burton, a mother and daughter dream team.24 Transpersonal psychologist Norma Burton has over thirty years of experience in her personal practice, and her work is informed by Jungian analysis, applied neuroscience, and comparative world religions, with an emphasis on Buddhism. Norma also apprenticed with Mexican Huichol shamans for twenty years, who gave her permission to incorporate their shadow healing tradition into her practice, and she is well versed in the shamanic traditions of other cultures, such as the Japanese Shugendo mountain shamans, the Brazilian Condoble-Espiritu healers, and the North American Cherokee, Hopi, Iroquois, and Navajo healers. Norma’s daughter, Nisha Burton, is a visual artist, graphic designer, and filmmaker, whose unique artistic vision enlivens the surreal dreamscapes pictured on the cards.25

This beautiful oracle consists of 44 gilded cards and a glossy full-color 200 page companion guidebook. In the guidebook, each card has a “Lucid Dreaming Teaching” and a “Lucid Living Message,” which advises the dreamer on how to integrate the lesson in both dreaming and waking life. 

The cards are divided into three categories, recognizable by their black, white, and starry night sky backgrounds. The black cards, numbered 1 through 22, are for “Lucid Dream Journeys”; the white cards, numbered 23 through 33, are for “State Checks, Stabilizing, and Reality-Shifting”; and the starry night cards, numbered 34-44, represent “Guides and Guardians.” [14-15]

The black cards give guidance for navigating various types of dreamscapes. Three of these cards (Card 6, “Nightmare Rewrite,” Card 12, “False Awakening,” and Card 13, “Sleep Paralysis”) advise on how to overcome frightening dream experiences by using your personal power to flip the script of the dream or transform these scenarios into opportunities for greater lucidity and mobility through out-of-body experiences.

One of my favorite cards is number 7, titled “Portals,” which teaches that “in lucid dreams, mirrors are entryways into other realities.”26 The Lucid Living message says, “Use them in waking reality to focus on what you like about yourself rather than your perceived flaws.”27 This card delighted me because I use black mirror scrying in my shadow work, and after reading about this card in the guidebook, I had a vivid dream in which I continued this practice in my sleep.  

The white cards teach various practices, called “state checks,” which can help one become lucid while dreaming. The guidebook defines a state check as “an action you conduct during the day to ‘check’ what ‘state’ or reality you are in—dreaming, awake, or out-of-body.”28 State checks performed in the dream realm can trigger lucidity. For example, card 27, titled “Solid Structures,” advises you to touch objects that should be solid to see if your hand will pass through them.29 Performing this state check throughout the day can help program your mind to do the same while dreaming, and will also heighten your critical thinking skills in waking reality. 

The starry night cards depict archetypal guardians and guides that you may encounter in the dream realms. They often represent subconscious aspects of yourself seeking integration, such as your “Cosmic Self and Inner Child,” and “Animal Guides” whose spiritual powers may benefit you at this time. 

I was eager to dive headfirst into this deck. For my first reading, I drew Card 16, “The Three Worlds” and Card 9, “The Dream World Home Base.” Both of these cards are black cards for lucid dream journeys, and feature locations in the Dreamtime, reminding me of a star map. 

“The Three Worlds” card depicts the three shamanic realms that dreamers can access. In “The Three Worlds” card:

“The dreamer navigates upward through the three worlds—the Underworld, the Middle World, and the Upper World. She has learned how to differentiate and distinguish between these dimensions and has integrated the powerful lessons held in each one.”30

The keywords associated with this card are: “Moving, State of flux, Re-surfacing of old wounds, Power struggles, Survival needs, Internal metamorphoses.”31

Working with “The Three Worlds” card entails me categorizing my dreams according to which shamanic realm they take place in. For example, I’ve noticed that all of my Underworld dreams take place underground, in some sort of catacomb, tomb, cave, or the basement of a large haunted house. According to the “Lucid Living Message” in the guidebook, Underworld dreams “include the resurfacing of psychological wounds that occurred in your childhood. It may be related to ancestral baggage and the need to heal patterns from your lineage.”32

The night before I drew this card I had a vivid Underworld dream. I dreamed I was speaking with my deceased father in a room with earthen walls, which I realized was his grave when I woke up. We were both crying in the dream, and it felt like we were resolving unfinished business between us. 

Middle World dreams are out-of-body experiences and mirror the earth plane. I began experimenting with astral projection when I was around 12 years old. Even though I had lucidity during these experiences, I had difficulty directing where I went and often lost consciousness and fell deeper into sleep. 

My Upper World dreams often involve spirit flights through space. In these vivid dreams, my astral body rockets through the earth’s atmosphere at the speed of thought, visiting the moon and planets both in this solar system and beyond. The most vivid one involved me floating near the rings of Saturn. I had a frightening sense of weightlessness and being suspended in the black void of space without any kind of tether to ground me and guide me back to earth. After reading the guidebook cover to cover, I was amazed to find a card titled “The Void” that describes this experience. I thought it was unique to me but apparently it is common among dreamers to encounter “The Void.” 

Sometimes these Upper World dreams involve me being on earth, but looking up at the sky to see the planets looming larger than life overhead and being drawn down towards me. I have also seen UFOs phasing in and out of the earth plane, revealing themselves to me by flickering like blue holograms. These dreams are frightening, because the veil thins and I become aware that there are alien forces all around us, cloaked so that most people can’t see them. I get the sense that these mysterious vessels are influencing our reality but I can’t discern how or what their intentions are. 

The second card I drew was “Dream World Home Base.” This card advises me to establish a safe and secure home base to ground myself in the ever-shifting dream realms. The guidebook suggests creating a home base through visualization, and locking the entrance so it is only accessible to me. 

This card reminded me of the astral castle I created in my late teens, and still visit on occasion. My favorite space is a reading room in a huge private library, with multiple floors of oak bookshelves and warm sunlight streaming through stained glass windows. There is a cloistered garden outside with a beautiful snow-white peacock that eats out of my hand. I haven’t visited in a while so I’m going to make some improvements and peruse the shelves. 

“If your home base is on another planet,” the guidebook says, “try putting a fingerprint or eye-scanning device on the portal to secure it.”33

The thought had never occurred to me to create my own dream planet as a home base, and I love the idea. Perhaps these cards are telling me that I already have a home base on another world that I may soon discover in my dreams.

I learned so much about dreaming from this comprehensive guidebook. It turns out that many experiences I thought were strange or unique to me are actually common dream experiences that are explored in one of the cards. While I haven’t had a fully lucid dream recently, using this deck has improved my dream recall and motivated me to be more consistent in journaling about my dreams. 

I have noticed that I often achieve a certain degree of lucidity in dreams, even if only for a brief moment of awareness that I am dreaming. For example, if my conscious mind is resistant to what is happening in the dream, I will remind myself to allow the dream’s narrative to unfold organically and witness it, so I can see what message it has for me. I have found that trying too hard to control and shape the dream takes too much psychic energy and exhausts me out of lucidity. I also like the surprises that come through the natural progression of dream sequences. For me, the most important benefit of lucidity is dream recall. I would rather observe the dream with mindful awareness and wake up to write it down rather than try to exert control over what happens and risk losing lucidity. 

The Lucid Dreaming, Lucid Living oracle is a phenomenal tool for mindful dreaming, astral projection, and deepening self-knowledge through shadow work. Both beginning and seasoned lucid dreamers will be inspired by this visually stunning deck and insightful guidebook, which teaches us the value of being present, as we lead double lives in our waking and dreaming realities. 

Are you awake right now? Or are you dreaming?

Essential Oils Oracle Cards, by Dennis Mock

Essential Oils Oracle Cards: Wisdom and Guidance from 40 Healing Plants, by Dennis Moeck with illustrations by Ulrike Annyma Kern
Inner Traditions, 9781644118795, 40 cards, 15 pages, September 2023

As someone who has been utilizing essential oils in my life for more than fifteen years, I am excited to see an oracle deck devoted to this subject. Essential Oils Oracle Cards: Wisdom and Guidance from 40 Healing Plants by Dennis Moeck with illustrations by Ulrike Annyma Kern is both beautiful and educational. The wisdom Moeck shares about the plants is equally matched by the guidance he imparts for each card. 

Moeck has studied aromatherapy, crystals, psychology, shamanism, ayurveda, and trauma therapy. His coaching practice focuses on consciousness and inner journeys through online courses, workshops, and retreats. Moeck has worked with essential oils for decades. He lives in Germany.

Kern is not only an artist, she is also an author and spiritual teacher. She has created an oracle deck based on archangels and written several books, one of which has been translated into English and features the chakra system.  She also lives in Germany.

These cards are very easy to use, and I decided to do a card pull right away. I asked the question: “What do I need to know in order to utilize the power of the Solar Eclipse?”

After shuffling the cards and fanning them out, I drew the card for Lemon.

“The time for cleansing and clarity has come.Refreshed and reinvigorated, you can rediscover your original inner light, a light that will guide you to the truth in this light. … the spirit of women is eager to guide you through the realm of shadows where it will kindle light in the rooms of your mind.”28

What a great message for me, for eclipse season! On the flip side of the card, I read additional guidance that says that lemon will help me to focus on what is essential, fresh, and pure. It also says that lemon aids the solar plexus chakra and that its scent can help me to celebrate life.

The affirmation reads:

“I am ready to open myself to life unconditionally and to welcome what I am.”29

The guidebook suggested that I “connect with the soul of the plant and tell it what is currently on your mind . . . .  Imagine that you are integrating with the energy of the healing plant soul and look back on yourself. . . . What advice do you give yourself?”31

Moeck advises the card reader to work with the energy of the card for 21 days, as well as suggesting they diffuse the essential oil or place the oil on pulse points or the heart space. I had some lemon essential oil on hand, so I added it to my diffuser. With the guidance, the image of the lemon plant, and the essential oil wafting through my space, I feel that I was able to integrate the wisdom more easily from the card.

Next, I wanted to reach out to clients and friends and pulled cards for 18 people. The feedback I received is overwhelmingly positive for each of the essential oils and messages shared. Here is what one friend has to say about her card, which was Patchouli:

“PJ drew the Patchouli card for me. From the very first line, I knew this was spot on and PJ had connected with my spirit. This was a week of worldwide turmoil with a personal connection, a relationship dilemma within my family, and a deeper, more personal emotional process that did indeed leave a “crack in my soul.” All areas of my life are in need of soul recognition and healing. Interestingly, Patchouli’s scent is highly obnoxious to me and this really surprised me. The plant, however, challenges me to view it, as well as the events in my life, with a new perspective and allow for the body/soul connection to do its necessary work.”  -BB in Dallas

A client who is currently struggling with where she is in life right now has this to say about her card, which was Frankincense:

“Thanks, PJ! The first paragraph of the second side mentioned something about recognizing My Divine Being. I needed the reminder.” – ST in Austin

Finally, a client with the card Cedarwood, shared that she LIVES on Cedarwood Drive! She also added this feedback regarding her guidance:

“I love the message of going forward playfully and trusting the divine timing of things. Less serious. Play, Relax and Trust the process Thank you so much. This resonates so much.” -HC in Boston

These cards are so very easy to use and share with clients.  The size of the cards and quality of the card stock work well and will last through many readings. The beautiful illustrations add to the message, without being overbearing or cryptic.  I really like this aspect.

In addition to the basic message about the history of the use of the plant and essential oil on Side A, the additional information on Side B adds even more guidance.  Moeck shares an affirmation, additional wisdom, a “Top Tip”, key words, and the chakra for which the oil might best be used.

The short guidebook is also very informative and helpful.  It shares an introduction, various ways to use the cards, how to phrase your question, and ways to read the cards. Moeck also shares ways to work with essential oils, including important safety notes. He also offers a way to close a card reading:

“Return to your own self, breathe deeply, absorb the advice, and then take a couple of minutes to reflect on it. Are there any other issues where the soul of the plant can deliver support? In this way, by changing roles and switching places with a plant, however many times it takes, you can make a connection and seek the plant’s advice.”32

Essential Oils Oracle Cards is good for  readers of all skill levels.  It is easy to use and shares information and guidance that applies on many levels. People who love working with essential oils will benefit greatly from the information in this deck. For those new to essential oils, this deck will be a great introduction to essential oils and their uses. I plan to use the deck to close out client readings when I feel led to refer to essential oils.