During this season of introspection, we are called to move closer inwards, listening to the transfixing hum of our inner selves. We are in a constant state of motion and growth, flowing in our own beings like a river of lava beneath the surface of the earth. We are never not moving, never not changing. During these final moments of this year, we can call upon these deep glowing veins of wisdom within, seeking our own authority and guidance as we make our way towards a new and uncertain cycle. We are firmly grounded in our own abilities, bearing witness to our growth as it happens in its own time. There is no need to rush, to push or pull. At our core, we know exactly what we're doing. For a moment, allow yourself to slip into this understanding like a warm bath. Let it hold you.

This work is an aspect of shadow. When hearing about "shadow work," we might be sparked with a hint of nervous energy, unsure about how ready we are to face the mysterious unknown within. We need not fear ourselves. Shadow too contains multitudes of wisdom waiting to be discovered and explored. There is difficulty in facing our fears, but with that difficulty comes tremendous reward. Once we get to know ourselves, it's easier to understand that there is no part of us that is wrong. There might be aspects which require attention and care, and subsequently could cause us distress in an effort to be noticed and nurtured. How we go about offering that nurturing is up to us.

Introspection is magic. It is self-care. And when approached and implemented, it is something of a lifelong journey. There are peaks and valleys, but as we traverse our own inner landscape we learn how to better and better anticipate the change in scenery - and even enjoy it. This is a strong facet of how we build healthy relationship, allyship, and friendship with ourselves. We can begin seeing what we need and how to fulfill those needs, as well as what we really don't and how to extract the things that harm us.

One of the simplest but most available ways to begin this introspection work is some gentle divination. Pull some cards and journal about what you find. Light a candle, make a cup of tea, and begin. Offer yourself a gentle stretch and a few deep breaths. It could also be as simple as spending just a few seconds in silence before beginning. Ground into the moment. Give this spread a spin:

Every story has two sides, right? This spread is meant to shed some light on what might be just on the other side of a current issue or situation. Think about Stranger Things and the Upsidedown - what’s taking place on the other side of the curtain, and how do these sides influence each other?

Card 1) The LEFT HEMISPHERE: What roadsigns are blinking out to you? This is the side of logic, knowledge, and intuition. Where is your inner GPS pointing, and are you listening? It might be time to.

Card 2) The RIGHT HEMISPHERE: What creative bubbles are brewing? This card showcases something exciting, inventive and crafty that’s calling out to you to invest more time and attention towards.

Card 3) The LEFT UNDERSPHERE: Has life been smooth sailing or choppy waters? It’s not always an easy endeavor to listen to our inner guidance. Why that is isn’t always obvious. Let this card show you what’s been diverting your needed attention - or perhaps boosting your newfound ability to listen and follow.

Card 4) The RIGHT UNDERSPHERE: Have you been feeling creatively unproductive, unmotivated, nervous or numb? Or perhaps you’ve been more driven than ever. This card offers insight around what might be blocking you, or what’s been helpful in your creative pursuits as of late.

Card 5) You in this moment, betwixt in between. How you choose to move forward is up to you!

A Magic Card Spread for the Inward Season of Darkness

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