December is a magical, transformative time of year – but let’s get clear – it can also be a month of chaos, confusion, and unrest. Why? Just consider the holidays – they chew up any kind of routine or normalcy and spits them out. Then there’s the upcoming New Year, which can be replete with unknowns, and unknowables. That’s why I’m writing these tarot insights for December – to give you a little light, a little levity, and a little something to take away as move bravely into the new frontier of next year.
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Reflecting on the Year with Tarot
December begs us to look back on the year with curiosity, compassion, and (let’s be honest) a bit of humor. We’ve all had those moments—some triumphant, others toe-curling. The Tarot can help us reflect on our journey and glean lessons from the ups and downs. Consider asking your deck questions like:
- What have I accomplished this year that I should celebrate?
- What challenges did I face, and what did they teach me?
- How have I grown emotionally, spiritually, or mentally?
As the Fool card might say:
“Every step—even the missteps—is part of the grand adventure.”
Preparing for the New Year with Tarot
As we pack away the glitter of this year and step into the clean slate of the next, the Tarot helps us envision where we want to go. It’s the ultimate brainstorming buddy for setting intentions and charting our course. Use your cards to:
- Identify what energies to leave behind.
- Seek clarity on your highest priorities for the upcoming year.
- Reveal hidden opportunities waiting in the wings.
In the words of the Magician: “You have all the tools you need; the magic is already within you.”
Aligning with the Energies of the Winter Solstice and Holiday Season
In the days before electricity, the winter solstice implied lots of odd unkonwns and scary stuff. It marked the longest night of the year, which, symbolically, could be frightening – but hope remains, and that’s something to be mindful about. Where there is dark, there is always light. So, as you work with these tarot insights for December and align your energies with your understandings – remember there light cannot exist without dark – and vice versa. As we remember that Yule invites us to embrace the quiet moments and celebrate the return of the light, I hope these self-directed questions inspire you to always seek the light within yourself and your world:
- What can I release during this darkest night?
- How can I honor the light returning?
- What blessings surround me this holiday season?
As the Hermit might say: “In the stillness of the dark, the light within burns brighter.”
Let your cards remind you of the warmth and love that persists, even in the coldest seasons.
Tarot Spreads to Try for the New Year
Now that we have some ideas about how the tarot can help use through the holidays, and how it can be a resource for self-reflection, let’s try out hands at a few tarot spreads for the New Year, shall we?
Three-Card Spread: Past, Present, Future
This simple yet powerful spread offers a snapshot of your journey:
- Past: What lessons can I carry forward?
- Present: How can I center myself right now?
- Future: What energy should I embrace moving forward?
Take a moment to meditate on your spread, jotting down insights. Let this exercise ground you in gratitude for where you’ve been, peace for where you are, and excitement for where you’re going.
Four-Card Spread: Reflection and Self-Improvement for Yule
Use this spread to dive deeper into your personal growth during the solstice:
- What shadows am I ready to release?
- What light am I ready to embrace?
- What self-care practices will nourish me?
- What wisdom does the season offer me?
Let the cards inspire small, actionable steps to align with the season’s transformative energy.
The Empress would say:
“Nurture yourself, for you are the fertile ground where all dreams take root.”
Relationship Spread: Friends, Family, and Loved Ones
The holidays are a time for connection. Use this spread to navigate relationships with clarity and compassion:
- What is the current energy in this relationship?
- What challenges may arise, and how can I address them?
- What strengths does this connection bring to my life?
- What actions can I take to deepen this bond?
This spread encourages you to honor your relationships while setting healthy boundaries.
The Lovers card might say:
“True connection begins with understanding and compassion.”
Closing Thoughts: Finding Guidance During Uncertain Times
I hope you enjoyed these tarot insights for December – at the very least, perhaps this post gave you a reprieve from the chaos of the holidays and the mystery of what lies ahead. And remember: while the cards offer insight, it’s your own self-awareness, courage, and love that set the stage for a brighter year ahead.
As the Wheel of Fortune might say:
“Life spins in cycles, but you hold the power to steer your destiny.”
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