The Collective Major Themes of 2021.

It is an immense task to foresee the major trends for an entire year for the world at large, but I will do my best! This reading is done with tarot in reference to the major astrological trends of the year. During the recent Great Conjunction workshop, I described the major transits for 2021 and how they show up for each rising sign. This ‘year ahead’ tarot spread further reinforces the interpretation of the astrological transits. It is truly uncanny how the cards align with the planets!

First, notice the amount of kings in this reading. We have three kings but only one in an upright position. Thematically the year shows a clash among leaders and disagreements in which direction we are headed. No surprise there! It is interesting to see, however, that we have one clear leader taking charge — the ever logical King of Swords. I’ll be getting to him in a moment though.

CARD ONE: The first card at the center, the 8 of wands, represents the major overall theme for the entire globe. The key words for this card are speed, quick action, and movement. We seem to have momentum to move away from the heavy restriction we knew all too well in 2020. As a friend told me this morning, it is as if we are being ‘sling-shotted out of a year of stagnation’. I can see how this momentum is directly applied toward the globe working to disperse various vaccines as quickly as possible to almost every single living person. A monumental task that takes continuous effort. Overall, we can expect a year that is focused on adapting quickly to overcome great challenges.

These swift fiery movements correspond to Mercury in Sagittarius — the speedy messenger. This is archetypally the ‘excited evangelist’ who is eager to spread a message across the land. News cycles will continue to churn out ‘exciting’ news each day, and the likelihood of more travel. The overall energy is like a hive of bees who are busy collecting pollen from one flower to the next. With so much buzz and activity, I would suggest committing to a meditation or mindfulness practice to stay grounded this year.

CARD TWO: The card below the center represents the south nodal axis and the eclipse cycles in Sagittarius this year. Here we look to what is karmically being released, purged, or purified. The 6 of Pentacles is a card that seeks balance between those who have abundant resources and those who are lacking. How we support those who are less fortunate reflects our values as a society, and this will be reckoned with throughout the year. Many people will be analyzing what is fair when it comes to supporting a suffering economy and those that are least advantaged. The wisdom of the 6 of Pentacles with the South node tells us the more we give the more we receive. The more we lift everyone up, the more likely we are to succeed as a whole. When we have a healthy distribution of wealth, we have stability for all. In the sign of Sagittarius, we are likely to see changes in our belief systems and ideologies. These are the karmic teachings of this card and the lessons we may grapple with throughout the year.

CARD THREE: The card above the center represents the north nodal axis and the eclipses in Gemini and Taurus. Here we look to the ‘head of the dragon’ and what is likely to be intensely focused upon throughout the year. The nine of swords reversed has a definite connection to the mind and our thought patterns. North nodal eclipses often reveal an addictive behavior, so it’s no surprise to see a more negative card here! Anxiety and fear of the future are the core meanings of this card, and these are obviously issues many of us have been dealing with since last spring.

So let me break this down. Looking at Gemini, we have likely been hungry for information in order to understand the big changes that have been occurring. Sometimes, however, the more information we consume the more anxious we feel. I believe this card is reflecting the ‘trap’ of getting caught in a negative thought pattern and searching for more information for relief. The problem is, when we seek that knowledge — it may make the anxiety worse. We may feel alone in our worries and fears, but we certainly are not! The reversed nine of swords also shows that our imagination is likely far more cruel than any reality.

In a positive view, I can see how these eclipses may help to break a cycle of anxiety and seek out stabilizing support. Further, I can see that the true wisdom lies within us and not ‘out there’. As a remediate measure, I would suggest less time spent with smart phones and lots more time in nature. Choose an old school paperbound book over an article on the internet and really feel the paper as you turn each page. Sometimes the best medicine is the simplest kind.

CARD FOUR: The card on the bottom right represents magnificent Jupiter. In December, Jupiter entered Aquarius and will be playing a supportive role to Saturn most of the year. Jupiter shows us where and how we are likely to experience expansion, blessings and uplift in our lives. The Page of Wands does in fact offer a supportive role to any other court cards, and appears to be offering aid to all the Kings in this reading. Throughout the year, we can expect the Page of Wands to offer us many exciting opportunities and positivity towards new endeavors. Jupiter will finally have the strength to manifest some new adventures and explorations. There is a learning curve with any page, however, so we can expect some youthful folly as well!

In the sign of Aquarius, Jupiter is not super adept, but it appears we will have plenty of eagerness and positivity towards establishing the ‘new paradigm’ in the era of air. The new Jupiter-Saturn cycle that began on the winter solstice foretells a new 20 year cycle of Aquarian themes and a new 200 year cycle of the air element. Jupiter being represented by this fiery page tells me there is a lot of excitement in establishing new ways of living and governing that reflect our modern times. His positivity feeds directly into the momentum the 8 of wands at the center of the spread. Added, there is a feeling of inclusivity, and Jupiter would likely say this ‘new age’ is for everyone!

CARD FIVE: The card on the top right represents the key leader for this year — Saturn. I cannot think of a better card to represent the strength of this Aquarian Saturn. For about the next two years, we will have the planet of restriction, limitations and structure in its home sign of revolutionary Aquarius. The King of Swords reinforces the intense Saturnian themes for the year. An authoritative logic rules and points leadership toward reform. We are in a two year phase that will set the tone for decades to come. Major decisions are likely to be made in how society is structured and important new laws will be put in place. All of this will be done from a highly logical point of view. In the sign of Aquarius, we look to reform traditions in order to create a better tomorrow. Some of these reforms are likely to be controversial or felt as oppressive by certain groups. As we move forward in these next years, there will be varying opinions in how much tradition to retain. I’m not convinced that the King of Swords will be making any radical moves, however, unless it is assured they will create more stability. As an Aquarian myself, I’m still hopeful for positive changes in how various governing bodies will advance issues such as global warming and serving underprivileged groups.

CARD SIX: The card on the bottom left represents radical Uranus. This freedom loving planet will first square Jupiter, then square Saturn all year long. Squares represent conflict, so we have a definite feud between the authoritative energies of logical Saturn and rebellious Uranus. As I said previously, Saturn (or the King of Swords) is the one in charge due to its super position in the sky. The reversed King of Wands appropriately represents Uranus, and reflects its slightly inferior status.

So what does this mean? We are likely to have spurts of excitement and moments of breakthrough throughout the year, but they will be tempered by Saturn. I wouldn’t be surprised if we continue to have many restrictions, due to the pandemic, in most places through much of the year. The authoritative King of Swords will be there to consistently remind us the rules. The reversed position of the Kind of Wands can also represent a delayed liberation. We are waiting, somewhat impatiently, to regain our freedom loving ways.

The tension between Uranus and Saturn all year long will create a highly dynamic year, and one that will inspire breakthroughs in science and technology. We first got a taste of this transit in the spring of 2020 when we had vast protests across the globe. Thus, we can expect the King of Wands to continue to bring the fire and fight for change and liberation. Thankfully we have the Page of Wands in the mix to keep the vibe more positive!

CARD SEVEN: The last card on the upper left corner represents how these major themes will most apply to the United States this year. Here we have the King of Pentacles in a reversed position. This King is the figure of economic dominance, but he is currently subdued by his surrounding conditions. We have entered a new era, but this king is holding onto old traditions that keep him from progressing and evolving. As a society, we will likely contend with a stagnate economy and may question our values as we move forward. To be honest, I’m happy I did not see a more foreboding card here! Though the King is upside down, we can still find vast amounts of strength. Many of the obstacles we experience this year are temporary and they can be overcome successfully. The success we find in Pentacles is teamwork and supporting one another through the ups and downs.

2021 will continue some of the themes from last year, and the work we’ve already begun. The biggest difference is we will experience more forward movement and opportunities to break free from stagnation. On a personal level, many of us will be seeking more authenticity and living a life better aligned with our values. If you are interested in a personal reading to see what might be in store for you this year, make sure to schedule something soon. Sending you many expansive blessings this new year!

-Suzy

Astrology + Tarot inspired thoughts on the coronavirus..

(Published on March 13th in our newsletter)

So much is happening so fast, it has been a bit difficult to remain with one thought for very long. I would like, however, to share some thoughts (TAROT + ASTROLOGY inspired) and let you know what is going on at Chariot. I'm not going to pretend to have all the answers at this point, but I am trying to be as smart as possible about the pandemic situation with the information that is available.

We are planning to be open regular hours, though today we will be opening up a bit late to take care of some necessary errands. My health and especially my community's health is of utmost importance to me.  If you know anything about me, you know that I am a healthy living aficionado. ;) I take health super seriously. Because of this, we are taking extreme care to keep the shop a healthy and clean space. We will not be open on any days that a cruise ship is due to arrive in town. We are hopeful, however, that no cruise ships will be arriving this season. We will also be wiping down all doors, counters and point of sale surfaces regularly throughout the day with the necessary cleaning products. I will also be taking care to keep my own immune system in tip top shape as much as possible. 

I have been studying the transits for 2020 for the past year or two, and it is interesting to see how all the heavy transits are finally playing out. One in particular is the Jupiter conjunction to Pluto in Capricorn. Starting on March 11th, just two days ago, Jupiter was within three degrees of Pluto. This places Jupiter within the degrees of a true conjunction, and this transit will be exact on April 5th. Jupiter is in its fall in the sign of Capricorn, which means its plans can go awry and it isn't able to perform its truest beneficial nature. Pluto is the keeper of the underworld and often represents our repressed shadow selves or our deepest fears. Jupiter meeting Pluto, I believe, is reflecting the mass fear that is growing all around the world. Jupiter increases and expands while Pluto tends to distort and blow things apart. There is a true heaviness and seriousness to this transit.

In the earth sign of Capricorn, our sense of security and stability is tested. Our regular lives are turned upside down. This transit, however, is not all doom and gloom.  Jupiter expands but also integrates. Through December this year, Jupiter will be meeting Pluto three times. I believe this first time in early April will be the most difficult, but each time will be easier in some way. Through Jupiter's wisdom, we are able to face our deepest fears and do the deep and necessary 'shadow work'. We are now called to integrate our shadow selves into our being, so that we may be more whole. Not only that, but Jupiter can shine a light on an unexpected source of prosperity or treasure of some kind. Through the depths of the darkness, we may find a surprise 'pot of gold'. 

When the corona virus was first 'on the scene', the card I pulled for guidance was Temperance. Over and over again, I receive the message that we must remain calm in the face of fear and the unknown. We must acknowledge the changes that are afoot, but there is no need for hysteria. This is worth reminding ourselves again and again. 

In more recent tarot readings, the Pentacles repeatedly appear. The Pentacles represent the earth element -- as well as our bodies, our food, our wealth, our work, and our sense of stability. Through this period we are brought to recognize these areas of our life in a new way, with a new importance. One message I have received is that we have lost some connection to our bodies. The sacred body. The recent Virgo full moon reminds us of the wealth that is found in a healthy and energized body. 

The other message I received is how to deal with the pandemic and the fear surrounding it. The utterly simple 8 of pentacles. In times of crisis, this card often shows up as a savior of sorts.


Some themes for this card are:
-Remain productive. Work on to-do-lists and tasks. Stay busy with something worthwhile.
-Take one step at a time towards a goal. 
-Lose yourself in your work. This can be your job or it could be housework of some kind. Spring cleaning time! 
-Don't rush through anything. Be thoughtful and methodical. 
-And with any pentacles card, take time to connect with nature. 


Added to this, I can see we are in a transitional time. This is a journey. A passage that is temporary. We must remember there is an end to this difficult time, and should remain positive. More so, we can find peace with not knowing all the answers. 

Wishing good health and blessings to all. 




Spirit + Home,
Suzy   

Capricorn New Moon + Year of the Empress

Tarot artwork by Starchild Tarot. Available for purchase on our website.

On Saturday, the moon joins the sun exactly centered in earthy Capricorn at 5:28PM PT. This first new moon of the year is a partial eclipse, giving it some extra intensity. We are ushered into a brand new series of eclipses taking place in Capricorn and Cancer, which will take place throughout the year. What we put forth at this Capricorn new moon will bear fruit in many ways throughout the entire year. Where Capricorn and Cancer occur in your natal chart, will tell you much about how these eclipses will affect you personally.. 

Sandwiched between such serious players as Saturn and Pluto in Capricorn, the new moon is summoning us to come up with a plan for 2019. What do you wish to accomplish this year? 2019 is looking to be a mighty eventful year, and the more you can feel grounded in your own 'vision', the better off you will be.

The year 2019 is a collective numerology year '3', and this is an auspicious number for manifestation and creativity. It's no wonder that when I pulled a tarot card to represent the New Moon, I pulled the 3rd Major Arcana card.. theEmpress herself! The Empress represents the power of the divine feminine and our ability to create an abundant life. She is the divine mother of the Tarot, and she has special powers for creating and nurturing new life.

The north node in Cancer, the sign of 'the Mother', further shifts our collective focus towards this divine feminine. It seems no coincidence that 100 years ago, a woman's right to vote was passed in the United States congress. And on this very day, we have a record number of women sworn into U.S. congress. It looks as though women will be having a major impact on world change this year and for years to come.

The South Node, Pluto and Saturn will all be in Capricorn all year long. There is much to process here.. and to release. On a collective level, Capricorn represents the long established patriarchal systems and governments in our society. As old and broken structures are let go, we should expect to see much shifting and changing in these areas around the globe. The North node, in loving and compassionate Cancer, is our beacon as we move through these changes.  Now is the time to recognize the power of feminine wisdom. 

Before we proceed, however, we must return to this Saturday's new moon in Capricorn. We receive a beautiful sextile to Neptune, which expands our awareness and imagination. Jupiter squares Neptune, even greater expanding the scope of this influence. As we make plans for 2019, we are called to dream BIG. These are the types of dreams that we know we are not likely to accomplish this year, but they allow us to think with extra creativity. It gives us the extra push we need to get out of our comfort zone. 

As we expand our imaginations, we may discover a new talent or attract an exciting new project. One way to tap into this Neptune magic is to have a regular spiritual or meditation practice. Also, spending quality time with dear loved ones and friends can expand our thinking. Find ways to get our of your 'head' and connect with your heart. 

In summary, January will tell us a lot about our year to come. Our spirituality and intimate relationships are a big part of this story, as well as the 'work' we are called to do in this life. As we embrace the year of the Empress, I wish you all immense growth, abundance, creativity and love. Happy new moon!

My Four Top Favorite Tarot Decks of All Time

During this time of year, we are often searching for that special one of a kind gift for someone who has 'all the things'. I have always believed a special tarot deck is the supreme gift for anyone who is looking to develop their intuitive or psychic talents. A tarot deck can also be a special gift to give yourself; an intention set for moving into the new year with a more open and clear 6th chakra or 3rd eye. 

When I was fourteen, I had my first introduction to tarot. My best friend's mother would give us readings on occasion and teach us things like what 'intuition' meant. At that time in my life I was eager for any information on the occult, and I was immediately drawn to using tarot as a tool for connecting with a wisdom beyond my own conscious judgement. 

As you did in the mid 90's, I visited my local bookshop in search of a tarot deck for myself. I had heard the old fable that you are not supposed to gift yourself a deck, but I had a feeling that was nonsense. I also knew I wasn't going to wait around for a tarot deck to appear! 

Out of the few options that were available, I chose a contemporary Celtic style deck. The images were vibrant, and I connected with some of the symbolism. Over the years, this deck did me well. Eventually, I outgrew this first deckand I've purchased many new decks of a wide variety since then. 

I don't wish to bad talk anyone's personal creation, but I have purchased several decks that I later regretted. Sometimes the picture on a cover of a deck does not give you the whole story. Also, I don't know that I truly love a deck until I've worked with it for a good amount of time. I've purchased decks that I will use for three to six months, then all of a sudden I don't pick it up again. 

I'm often asked by beginning tarot readers for recommendations on tarot decks. I thought it might be helpful if I wrote about some of my all time favorite decks. Of course, my favorite tarot decks may not be your favorite decks. You should always be aware of what you are being drawn to, and give yourself some time to figure out what you like. 

Any of the following four decks I believe to be amazing choices for a first time reader or a seasoned expert of tarot... 


1.  Rider Waite Smith Tarot
This deck was first published in 1910, and it is the classic that all modern day decks are based from. The cards were drawn by illustrator Pamela Colman Smith from the instructions of academic and mystic A. E. Waite, and published by the Rider Company. Hands down, this is the deck that I recommend to any beginner of tarot. The artwork is beautiful but simple. The chosen symbols are thoughtful and meaningful to the interpretation of each card. Also, the traditional symbolism will easily translate to most any other tarot deck you are using. The deck is widely available, but be aware that it does come in different versions. An image of the Empress card, one of my favorite in the deck, is shown below:

 

2.  The Starchild Tarot
I have been using this deck since its birth in 2013, and it is the highest vibrating deck I've ever worked with. This may seem cheesy, but I find the other-worldly imagery so uplifting and transformative. Sacred geometry anyone? If you are the type of person that finds some of the traditional tarot card artwork 'scary', you will love this deck. For example, the Death card is labeled 'Transformation' and the Hanged Man card is labeled 'Perspective'. Thus, the meaning is the same, but there is a shift toward the enlightened viewpoint.

You'll also find that this deck has an additional card, called the Akashic Records. This card does not exist in the first edition, so it is still a bit mysterious to me. But I do love the concept of this additional card. There have been several editions of this deck over the years, with slight evolvements each time. All in all, I am still partial to my original deck for sentimental reasons, but I'm planning to work more with the newest version in 2019.

We are happy to announce we are now carrying this beautiful deck atChariot. If you are interested in purchasing this deck for yourself, or as a gift for a loved one, you can purchase in store or online: The Starchild Tarot 

The Starchild Tarot and companion guidebook are pictured below:

3.  The Aquarian Tarot
This deck was first released in 1970. I love the 'flower child' aesthetic that reflects the time, as well as the Art Nouveau influences. David Palladini, the artist, was an art school student attending Pratt Institute when he started creating this deck. The artwork and simple symbolism stand the test of time, and it is a true tarot classic.

Whenever I use this deck with clients, they are somewhat surprised to find out it comes from 1970. There is a certain timelessness to the design. If you are partial to the color palette of this era, you will certainly love this deck. For any artist or creative type, this is a great addition to their collection.

The Aquarian Tarot's Moon card is pictured below:
 

4.  Pagan Otherworlds Tarot
Though I have not been using this tarot deck near as long as the rest, I have a feeling I will be using it for many years to come. This deck is a true masterpiece, with each card masterfully hand painted with multiple layers of detail. The artwork is executed in a traditional Renaissance style, using such classic techniques as 'Chiaroscuro'.  Yes, I remember something from art history class!

First released in 2016, the deck somehow emanates an authentic 'old world' feel. There are small touches of a contemporary design, however, that make the overall deck feel fresh and very 'now'. What makes this deck utterly unique is all the extra cards included: 5 'holographic' moon phase cards and one extra major arcana card. With my knowledge of astrology and the moon phases, the use of these extra cards has come very natural to me. 

This deck is ideal for any tarot reader who honors the old traditions, but who also wants to dip into something brand new. Chariot is now carrying this deck, along with the beautifully written companion guidebook. You can purchase the tarot deck in store or online: Pagan Otherworlds Tarot

The Pagan Otherworlds Major Arcana and Lunar Phase cards are shown below:

Assuredly, there are many more beautiful tarot decks out there that I have yet to work with. I look forward to continuing my own search for powerful tarot decks here and in the future. It is my hope that everyone who is a lover of the occult knowledge and tarot has more than one deck that connects powerfully with them. It is also my hope to powerfully assist others on their personal journeys to connecting with their intuition and the Tarot.

Please don't hesitate to reach out to me for assistance this December and in the new year of 2019. Many blessings to you.

NEW MOON IN VIRGO

 

Late this Tuesday evening, west coast time, the New Moon will arrive in the sign of the earthly goddess -- Virgo. The themes that come to mind for manifestation during this fertile time include our health, our ability to work without distraction, conquering our to do lists, taking care of our own well being, and being of service to others. Virgo is a 'responsible' sign, and thrives on organization and a sense of accomplishment in our daily lives. This New Moon is highlighting our ability to thrive in our daily mundane activities, and how to be more conscious in our daily rituals.

For anyone who is self employed, it certainly helps to strengthen one's Virgo qualities. If you can't be responsible for your own daily work, who will? But in order to be most effective in our work, Virgo tells us we must find balance between work and play. After a full day of work, we need time to put up our feet and to spend time with our loved ones. There is a balance that must be achieved in order to stay happy, healthy and sane in our daily lives. 

We are still coming off of the intense energies of the Eclipses in August. This New Moon is a continuation of those themes and goals we set last month. We are taking the next practical steps towards achieving our goals and our destiny. Though we are being reminded of all the work that is still ahead of us, she is telling us to also celebrate all the small victories. As you create your 'to do lists' at this time, congratulate yourself for every little task you check off. The Universe is supporting you right now as you take care of business!

The New Moon occurs at 27 degrees Virgo and is square Saturn and opposing Chiron. These are no small matters. Saturn will be presenting an obstacle or two in our paths. A challenge that we can overcome and learn from. Chiron will be highlighting where we still need healing in our lives. Pay attention to what comes up for you emotionally, and shine a light there. This is not a time to ignore difficulties. We are called to face them and work through them with love and compassion.  

We may experience moments of anxiety and nervous tension. Remember to take care of yourself during this time. Virgo rules our health, and if we allow stress to take over -- we may find ourselves stuck in bed with a nasty cold!

Overall, this is an excellent time to clean house and get organized. Venus will be joining the Virgo party, showing us that there is natural beauty all around us. De-clutter your home and workspace and spend some time outdoors to connect with nature. The earth goddess beckons us to get grounded in our bodies and the spaces we occupy. 

Read your New Moon horoscope below to find out how this moon phase affects you more personally. These short readings are based on astrological transits and intuitive readings, and they apply to your rising (or ascendant), sun and moon signs.


 

• ARIES:  How do you envision your ideal day? Make a plan for how you organize your day, including work, down time and fun activities. You are being challenged to find enjoyment in the work that you do, and having a clear plan of how to make that happen is the key to success. 

• TAURUS:  Dear Taurus, you look to be starting a new creative project of some kind. This is something to be really excited about! Expect doors to open and fresh new beginnings. You are also especially fertile at this time, so this makes an excellent time for conceiving if this is a goal for you. 

• GEMINI:  Are you moving to a new city or into a new home? There is lots of movement and new beginnings around family and home for you right now. You may also be going on a trip to visit relatives or beloved ancestors. 

• CANCER:  This is an excellent time to work on effective communication with coworkers or those in your community. Think about what your role is, and how you can be most effective with your talents. You may be looking take a special course or two. Research and be clear about what you want before you commit to this new area of study.

• LEO:  There looks to be an opportunity to earn some extra income. You are being called to act quickly, as this opportunity may not stick around. It's time to get serious about your powers of manifestation. 

• VIRGO:  Dear Virgo, the stars are speaking to you! This is your time to shine by using your talents in being of service to others. Step up your game and realize your greatest potential. 

• LIBRA:  You are preparing for your next big move. Until then, find joy and grace with where you are currently. You are being called to go within. Pay attention to your dreams and intuition at this time. They will be giving you hints for what is to come. 

• SCORPIO:  Have you been distracted lately from pursuing your dreams? I see this New Moon as a reminder to be brave and remain focused on your pursuits. As you conquer your obstacles, you may be disrupting the collective somehow. But you keep doing you! 

• SAGITTARIUS:  The doors keep opening for you when it comes to career and your place in the world. People are noticing you, dear Sagittarius. You are able to hold a certain grace and confidence now, and people want to listen to what you have to say. 

• CAPRICORN:  Your faith is somehow being challenged now. You may be questioning your spiritual foundation or that of others. Or it could be that you are facing challenges with foreign affairs of some kind. Go within and set your personal priorities. Find faith in yourself.

• AQUARIUS:  Dear Aquarius, what parts of your life are you saying goodbye to? Before a fresh new chapter can emerge, you must first clear up some emotional matters. This is a deeply transformational time for you. Give yourself the nurturing and healing you need. 

• PISCES:  Have you been disappointed in your partner lately? Whether it's your romantic or business partner, I see a change of course. Let go of previous expectations and see how you can be most effective working a bit more on your own. Think about what your personal goals are, and how you can get yourself there. 

TAROT this Saturday

Have an important question for the universe? Need some spiritual guidance? We will be having tarot readings available at the shop again this Saturday from Noon to 4:00! Stop by anytime or message us to sign up in advance.  

$10 for 10 minutes  //  $20 for 20 minutes