Category: Metaphysical Connection

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Metaphysical Connection: The Cancer/Chariot Mirror

Photo: Pamela Colman Smith | Public domain | Wikimedia Commons

Every zodiac sign is connected to a tarot card, but for Cancer, the sign of summer, that link is especially profound. Ruled by The Chariot, Cancer’s symbolism is rich with meaning, blending the emotional depth of the crab with the steady momentum of the charioteer.

As a cardinal sign, Cancer is associated with moving forward and embodies the energy of fresh beginnings — much like The Chariot, a card that represents determination, direction, and the will to move forward. Yet, in most tarot decks, the charioteer appears still, contemplative, and firmly grounded as he observes the sphinxes (or horses) ahead. This moment of pause mirrors the Cancerian nature — measured, observant, and deeply intentional before taking the next step.

Cancer is often seen as the sign of motherhood and emotional guardianship. It is tenacious, nurturing, and fiercely protective. Cancers navigate life through intuition rather than impulse, rising above conflict by trusting their inner compass. Represented by the crab, they protect their soft emotional core with a tough outer shell — and this echoes beautifully in the armored charioteer, who meets the world fully cloaked, prepared, and guarded.

The Chariot is also flanked by two opposing guides — often black and white sphinxes or horses. The dualities represent the delicate balance between action and restraint, toughness and tenderness. Black evokes the charioteer’s shell, shielding him from external chaos; white reflects the inner emotional truths quietly steering his journey. This duality speaks directly to Cancer’s ability to balance their protective instincts with deep emotional intelligence.

The charioteer’s journey mirrors the Cancerian path, where emotional intelligence holds the reins that steer through the labyrinth of ambitions, keeping oneself from scattering all energy. With the protective shell of The Chariot, a Cancer may embrace their profound strength, turning vulnerability into resilience and lunar intuition into a cosmic driving force on The Chariot of their lives.

The lunar connection here is equally powerful. Ruled by the moon, Cancer is highly sensitive to cycles, rhythms, and intuitive knowing. Not surprisingly, The Chariot card often features crescent moons on the charioteer’s shoulders, a clear nod to this celestial influence. Even the flowing water behind the chariot reflects Cancer’s elemental nature as a water sign, and the moon’s powerful pull on the tides mirrors Cancer’s emotional currents.

The relationship between Cancer and The Chariot is more than symbolic — it’s archetypal. It speaks to the journey of moving forward while honoring emotional truth. The path isn’t about rushing headlong into battle, but about aligning intention with instinct and shielding the heart while never losing sight of the destination.

The Chariot speaks to the triumph that comes from balance, focus, and will. It reminds us that true victory isn’t about brute force — it’s about mastering our inner terrain just as much as our outer challenges. When we move forward with clarity, discipline, and intention, even the most daunting obstacles become stepping stones on the path to purpose.

Though the charioteer appears still, his control is absolute. It’s this inner steadiness that allows him to navigate life’s unpredictable twists with grace. His message is clear: Stay centered, stay bold, and trust the course you’ve chosen, even when the road veers off the map.

In the charioteer’s quest for his goal, he may display some behavior that he has never seen within himself before; competition and a desire to succeed have perhaps brought out a more aggressive part of his personality. Aggression is a natural part of human nature, and The Chariot reminds you that it can also be used to help you take charge of your situation but also must be reined in so it doesn’t hinder your way forward.

If you’ve been hesitating to pursue a goal or second-guessing your next move, The Chariot urges you to take the reins with a structured plan and a determined heart. This is a card of empowered movement — not reckless action, but a sacred commitment to align thought, emotion, and willpower. When you lead with confidence and integrity, you step into a version of yourself that is truly unstoppable. 

Emily Guenther is a co-owner of The Broom Closet metaphysical shop. She is a Memphis native, professional tarot reader, ordained Pagan clergy, and dog mom.

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Metaphysical Connection: A Summer Retrograde

Mercury is in retrograde. (Photo: NASA | Creative Commons | Wikimedia)

Summer is here, it’s hot, and Mercury is queuing up to bring us some retroshade this summer. Sadly, it’s not the kind of shade we want. Mercury will officially be in retrograde from July 18th until August 11th. The retroshade period (the two weeks before and after the official retrograde) is creeping up on us. It will stick around under the end of August, just long enough to insert itself into all of the back-to-school chaos. 

A retrograde happens when it appears that a planet is orbiting backwards. The planets don’t actually change orbital direction; it’s more of an optical illusion. However, many people believe that during these periods the energy or properties of that planet may be behaving differently. All planets do this, but the spiritual community puts a lot of focus on Mercury. 

Mercury is thought to rule over our communication, travel, and commerce. When it is in retrograde, we can often expect miscommunication, disagreements because of miscommunication, hiccups with travel plans, and inconveniences with technology. Retrogrades, especially Mercury retrogrades, often throw speed bumps in our way to make us slow down, reflect, and readjust for the next phase. 

During this three-week stretch (plus the shadow period), Mercury’s energy tends to scramble signals, leaving us feeling hazy, scattered, and a little anxious. As the ruler of communication, technology, and travel, Mercury often stirs up disruptions in these areas — and yes, that can include unexpected messages from exes and revisiting old lessons we thought we’d already learned.

This summer’s Mercury retrograde will fall in the astrological sign of Leo. Leo rules over romance, flirtation, creativity, and play. When Mercury goes retrograde in this sign, pleasure isn’t entirely off the table, but the things that once sparked joy may suddenly feel flat. This cosmic slowdown nudges you to reassess your priorities. It might inspire a lifestyle reset, healthier relationships, or even thoughts of starting a family, as Leo also governs children. Mercury’s reflective energy could encourage you to embrace maturity, step into your responsibilities with confidence, and be seen in a more serious light. But don’t worry — you don’t have to give up your fun, just redefine what it looks like.

Although this summer’s Mercury retrograde is solely in the sign of Leo, that does not mean Leos are the only people who will be affected by it. The movements of the planets affect, or reflect, the lives of everyone. The fixed signs (Leo, Aquarius, Taurus, and Scorpio) are likely to feel this retrograde the most intensely though. Fixed signs often take the brunt of retrogrades because change or disruption does not sit well with fixed signs. 

If you’re a Taurus, Leo, Aquarius, or Scorpio, this retrograde might feel especially personal. You could find yourself revisiting themes around creativity, authenticity, self-expression, identity, and deeper desires — particularly if you have prominent Leo placements. The cosmos is nudging you to reconnect with what truly lights you up and to realign with the most vibrant, honest version of yourself.

Miscommunications and clumsy wording are common during Mercury retrograde, but you cannot let this shatter your self-image. We must also be careful with our actions. Leo is a bold and proud sign. This influence can embolden us to do things we wouldn’t ordinarily do in our communications. Don’t let your frustrations with things and the passion of Leo merge into risky behavior. You may feel like now is the time to get things off your chest or take a leap and tell someone you are interested in them. Before you do though, take some time to think it through; don’t be rash. Remember communication is already going to be tricky. Is now the time to bring up touchy and vulnerable topics? 

Navigating Mercury retrograde doesn’t have to be chaotic. Staying adaptable can help you ride it out with ease. Practice patience, keep a compassionate mindset, and don’t let pride cloud your perspective. This is a powerful moment for reflection. Step back, tune in, and let the experience teach you. These cosmic pauses aren’t punishments; they’re invitations to grow, if we’re willing to listen. 

Emily Guenther is a co-owner of The Broom Closet metaphysical shop. She is a Memphis native, professional tarot reader, ordained Pagan clergy, and dog mom.

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Metaphysical Connection: Memphis’ Ties to Ancient Egypt

Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg | www.vascoplanet.com | creative commons | Wikimedia Commons

Memphis was founded on May 22, 1819, by a group of investors that included John Overton, James Winchester, and Andrew Jackson. It was officially incorporated as a city in 1826. The investors named it after the ancient capital of Egypt on the Nile River, seizing the opportunity to one-up the founders of the newly formed Cairo, Illinois. Memphis was so named in hopes of it one day being the seat of great kings, like its river-adjacent namesake. 

Memphis, Egypt, no longer exists as the bustling capital it used to be. Now it is a set of archeological sites practically in the suburbs of Cairo, sitting at the head of the Nile River Delta. The Nile is the only reason civilization exists in Egypt, so its Memphis was strategically placed on the great waterway. Being at the river delta, Memphis was a hub for commerce and trade. 

Egypt’s Memphis was the residence of pharaohs and the capital city from the beginning of the dynastic period (approximately 3000 B.C.E.) through the end of the Old Kingdom period and into the First Intermediate Period (approximately 2181 B.C.E.). Even after the capital shifted to other locations, such as Thebes, Memphis remained an important place and religious center. Its temples were among the most important in the country. During the New Kingdom period (approximately 1550 to 1070 B.C.E.), Memphis most likely functioned as the second capital of Egypt. At one time it seems to have been the principal residence of the crown prince, and at least three well-known pharaohs were born there. 

Memphis was always one of the most populous and renowned places in Egypt, inhabited by a cosmopolitan community. Its port and local workshops played an important role in Egyptian foreign trade. A reflection of the magnitude and importance of Memphis is the extension of its cemeteries, more than 30 kilometers in length, on the edge of the desert and the western bank of the Nile. 

Memphis, Tennessee, our home, sits on the Chickasaw Bluff along the banks of Ol’ Man River. Tennessee’s Memphis is located on the edge of the Mississippi River Delta, although not technically a part of the local river delta like Egypt’s Memphis was. It would be 13 years until its first church was constructed. In 1832, a group of Methodists built a modest meeting house for their congregation. It was the first religious building in the city and still stands today as the First United Methodist Church. Our Memphis has followed in the religious footsteps of its namesake, becoming a hub of religion that has helped shape the country. 

Tennessee’s Memphis is also a hub of commerce and trade thanks to our location on the Mississippi River. Memphis has evolved from a storied river port into a dynamic transit hub, seamlessly integrating rail and air logistics, with FedEx at the heart of its global connectivity. Once defined by the Mississippi’s currents, the city now channels commerce across highways, railways, and the skies, solidifying its role as a pivotal nexus in modern trade.

Over the years, Memphis, Tennessee, has paid tribute to its namesake through architecture. Memphis’ oldest known Egyptian tribute is the Ballard & Ballard Obelisk Flour building Downtown, dating back to 1924. The building is filled with Egyptian Revival elements — obelisks, unintelligible hieroglyphics, and three arched entrances resembling those of ancient temples.

In the 1980s and early 1990s, Memphis, Tennessee, underwent a small Egyptian revival. In 1991, the city built its own pyramid. Initially, the Pyramid was built as an event center, hosting concerts, sporting events, and other attractions (remember the “Wonders” exhibits?). Then there is the Memphis Zoo, with its full facade of Egyptian tribute, built to reflect the shape of ancient Egyptian monuments. 

I cherish both Memphis, Tennessee, and Memphis, Egypt — each a testament to the enduring spirit of civilization. As a proud Memphian, I appreciate the historical homage woven into my hometown. Take a drive through the Bluff City and see if you can spot its Egyptian revival echoes. 

Emily Guenther is a co-owner of The Broom Closet metaphysical shop. She is a Memphis native, professional tarot reader, ordained Pagan clergy, and dog mom.

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Birthstones of June

Photo: Alexey Demidov | Unsplash

At The Broom Closet, we are often asked about birthstones. Finding the most fitting birthstone is not always as easy as we think it is. Each month and each zodiac are associated with multiple gemstones. Sometimes these gemstones overlap, but sometimes they do not. When trying to find a birthstone, you first need to know if you want one that reflects the month of your birth or your zodiac sign. Or both. The month of June is associated with three different birthstones and two different zodiac signs. The birthstones for June are pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite. The astrological signs of Gemini and Cancer share the month of June. 

Pearls are the only gemstones made by living creatures. Pearls are often associated with emotional balance, serenity, and purity in metaphysical traditions. They are believed to promote calmness, enhance intuition, and encourage spiritual growth. Pearls are also linked to feminine energy, love, and wisdom. 

Moonstone was named by the Roman natural historian Pliny, who wrote that moonstone’s shimmery appearance shifted with the phases of the moon. Moonstone is a stone of intuition, emotional balance, and new beginnings, often associated with feminine energy and the lunar cycles. It is believed to enhance intuition, promote emotional stability, and facilitate connection with the subconscious mind. 

A relatively modern gemstone, alexandrite was discovered in Russian emerald mines located in the Ural Mountains. Legends claim that it was discovered in 1834 on the same day that future Russian Czar Alexander II came of age; it was named to honor him. Often described as “emerald by day, ruby by night,” alexandrite is a rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl that changes color from bluish green in daylight to purplish red under incandescent light. The unlikelihood of elements combining under the right conditions makes alexandrite one of the rarest and most expensive gemstones on Earth. Alexandrite is a gemstone associated with balance and harmony, transformation, good fortune, prosperity, and spiritual growth. 

These three birthstones for the month of June share some overlapping metaphysical properties. All three stones are associated with spiritual growth, emotional balance, calmness, and intuition. These are also qualities that can benefit the two zodiac signs associated with June.

Geminis, known for their adaptability, quick wit, and intellectual curiosity, thrive in lively conversations and diverse social settings. Their birthstones complement these traits, providing balance to their airy nature. Cancers, revered for their loyalty, nurturing spirit, and deep intuition, embody creativity and emotional depth. Their birthstones enhance their best qualities while offering stability against mood swings and sensitivity.

Gemini is associated with the same gemstones as the month of June, but other birthstones for Gemini include agate, chrysoprase, citrine, emerald, and sapphire. Agate is a type of chalcedony that is often banded with different colors and patterns. It is believed to have protective and grounding properties and is said to enhance mental clarity and focus. Chrysoprase is a bright green gemstone that is said to bring abundance and prosperity to the wearer. It is also believed to enhance self-confidence and creativity, making it a popular gemstone among artists and creatives. Citrine is a gemstone that is associated with warmth, energy, vitality, and prosperity. Emerald is associated with the heart chakra and is said to bring balance and harmony to the wearer. Sapphire is said to promote wisdom and spiritual growth. 

Cancer, June’s second zodiac sign, is also associated with multiple gemstones such as ruby, carnelian, rose quartz, pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite. Ruby symbolizes love, vitality, and courage. Carnelian inspires creativity and ambition, as well as courage and confidence. And rose quartz is a gentle stone that encourages self-acceptance and empathy towards others. 

If gemstones interest you, take some time to find the ones associated with your birth month and/or your zodiac sign. Learn about those gemstones and see if you think they reflect your personality or if they could help you balance aspects of your life. Gemstones make wonderful spiritual partners when we learn to harness their energy. 

Emily Guenther is a co-owner of The Broom Closet metaphysical shop. She is a Memphis native, professional tarot reader, ordained Pagan clergy, and dog mom.

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Metaphysical Connection: Hearth Magic

If you work in harmony with your house, it will take care of you. (Photo: Andrea Davis | Unsplash)

Hearth magic, or hearth witchery — also sometimes called cottage witchcraft — is a form of domestic magic that focuses on infusing magic into everyday tasks and creating a sacred, relaxing, and safe haven within the home. 

A hearth magic practitioner is a home-centered witch who focuses their energies on creating sacred space and weaving the magical into the mundane. They do not usually feel the need to equip themselves with fancy tools or do elaborate rituals, and like to get creative with what they have in their own kitchen or garden. They may also be crafty and enjoy making things for their home or practice. I believe there is a bit of hearth witch in all of us, and our ancestors probably practiced quite a bit.

Hearth magic could easily be considered a part of other spiritual traditions. It often gets included in green witchery because it can involve gardening, using herbs, and cooking. Here in the South, we have a strong history of conjure and hoodoo. Conjure and hoodoo are words that are often used interchangeably, but some people will define them differently. Regardless of how we define them, they are types of folk magic. 

Folk magic is a system of traditional magical practices and beliefs that are passed down through generations within a community, often rooted in local customs and traditions, and practiced by everyday people rather than formally trained practitioners.  

For many of us, our desire is to weave the magical into the mundane. I know it is something that I have been taught for years. If we can find the magical in the mundane, it can bring us joy and connection to the universe. And this is the heart of hearth magic.

If you would like to embrace more hearth magic in your life, there are a lot of ways you can do so. We know words are important to our manifestation process. If you really dislike having to clean your home or do household chores, you can try changing the language you use to talk about your cleaning. Instead of saying chores — a word that comes with emotion attached to it — try saying household rituals instead. In our housekeeping rituals, we keep in mind our goal — to create a sanctuary, a sacred space, a dwelling for the Divine — which nourishes us and our loved ones. These housekeeping rituals become an act of service — to our deities as well as to our spiritual well-being.

Many people will advise that a daily spiritual practice is necessary for spiritual people. Start the day with a land-honoring grounding practice. You may wish to acknowledge the four elements, or create a daily ritual that grounds you into the place you live, its history, and its people. I like to work with my land spirits and try to include them in many of my rituals and thanksgiving.

Another way to bring more hearth magic into your life and home is to sanctify the hearth of your home and spend time there to replenish its energy. The hearth of your home is the sacred power spot or energy center of the home. It is different for each of us, but it is the place that you feel most relaxed, nourished, and grounded. Often, if you have people over to visit, they naturally gravitate to this area. Once you have located this area, sanctify it by cleansing and blessing it, creating an altar there, decorating it in a way that honors its spiritual essence, and then tend it with love. Spend more time there, doing things that nourish your soul or make you feel good.

Finally, one of my favorite bits of advice for a hearth magic practice: Talk to your home. Listen to the building itself and honor it like a living being. Every home has its unique energy and will encourage its stewards to live a certain way. If you work in harmony with your house, it will take care of you. Take time to get to know it and what its needs are. You will be impressed with how your home returns your love. 

Emily Guenther is a co-owner of The Broom Closet metaphysical shop. She is a Memphis native, professional tarot reader, ordained Pagan clergy, and dog mom.

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Metaphysical Connection: The Nines in Minor Arcana

The minor arcana nine cards of tarot shed light on The Hermit. (Photo: Shara Clark)

It’s 2025 and our tarot for this year is card number nine — The Hermit. This card invites introspection. Instead of pushing forward, it advocates for a strategic withdrawal, a pause for self-reflection and understanding. The Hermit is about assessing our past choices, finding wisdom, learning more, and sometimes being more reclusive or protective of our energy.

Each suit reflects the meaning of The Hermit card back to us in some way. If we can study and understand the meaning of each of the minor arcana nine cards, we will be able to see the whole picture behind The Hermit. And since study is part of The Hermit card meaning, it feels rather appropriate to do a deep dive.

In tarot, the nine of wands signifies perseverance, resilience, and the determination to push through challenges even when feeling weary or battered by obstacles. The nine of wands is often interpreted as a message to “keep going” and not give up, drawing on inner strength to overcome adversity. After all, you’re at the nine card — you are almost there!

The nine of cups is often called the “wish card,” signifying the fulfillment of desires, achieving goals, and the manifestation of dreams. After a long journey, the nine of cups symbolizes the finding of self-satisfaction. The emotional journey of the cups is starting to come to a close after the volatile ups and downs you faced in the earlier numbers of this suit. You have struggled to find purpose and joy after loss, you have tasted the different things that life offers, and you have left comfort in order to find greater heights. Here, you have found them, and you are indulging yourself as you celebrate this new stage of your life.

The nine of swords signifies a state of anxiety, fear, despair, and overwhelming negative emotions. This card often represents feelings of being consumed by worry, guilt, or past trauma. The suit of swords is concerned with the mind, logic, intelligence, and communication. But somehow the nine of swords was caught on the destructive end of the spectrum, the one which turns inward on itself, and then multiplies and festers. Questions are plaguing you, and you find yourself reciting all the possibilities — all the things that can happen to you. You are haunted by what could be. The nine of swords must begin to understand the process of unresolved issues that has led them to this breaking point.

The nine of pentacles signifies a state of achieved success, financial independence, self-sufficiency, and the ability to enjoy the fruits of your hard work. This card indicates that you have reached a stage in your life where you are confident, independent, and self-sufficient. Through hard work, you are now ready to enjoy money, leisure, and material comfort.

In the major arcana, the four nines correspond with The Hermit. The Hermit’s solitary presence and long grey beard suggest his maturity and understanding. The nines of the minor arcana suits all ask the same questions of themselves. What was it all about? Who am I? Where have I come from? Where am I now? Where do I want to go next and why? The Hermit has seen many cycles come and go. He even resembles Father Time, and his knowledge and wisdom are infinite. What he has learned has not come easy. He advises the four suits that if they have not found the answers they were looking for in their current cycle, they just might in the next. The idea is not to give up, even if what they look back on does not, in their estimation, amount to much. There is no such thing as failure or mistakes, for all is knowledge and experience under The Hermit. 

Emily Guenther is a co-owner of The Broom Closet metaphysical shop. She is a Memphis native, professional tarot reader, ordained Pagan clergy, and dog mom.

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Metaphysical Connection: This Year’s Numerology

The number nine is humanitarian at heart. (Photo: Irinayeryomina | Dreamstime.com)

This year — 2025 — is a nine year. In January, I wrote a column that touched on some of the astrological and numerical predictions for 2025. One of the things I do to help me “get a read” on the year is to find out what the tarot card for the year is and learn about the Chinese astrology for the year ahead. I’ve been thinking about this year’s tarot card and numerology for a long time — long before 2025 was here. And like most things in life, it is a mixed bag.

This year marches to a different tarot beat than 2024 did. The tarot card for 2024 was Strength, but 2025 will be ruled by The Hermit card. The Hermit is card number nine in tarot. This card invites introspection. Instead of pushing forward, it advocates for a strategic withdrawal, a pause for self-reflection and understanding.

The energy of the number nine represents completion, but not necessarily finality. Think of it more in a cyclical sense; it’s about the ending of one cycle and the potential it creates for another cycle to begin. The nine in numerology acts as an usher in this process of transition or transformation, guiding and empowering us with its wisdom.

This number is humanitarian at heart. It is compassionate, kind, and intent on putting its efforts toward creating the greatest good. In numerology, nine has gone through its fair share of hardship and is wiser, stronger, and more aware as a result. These first-hand experiences make it especially understanding of others who are struggling and willing to provide valuable support.

The number nine in tarot brings all of the energies of the previous numbers to a culmination. The transformation from the spiritual to the tangible that took place in the number eight finally settles itself into something real. This is where we see the consequences of all the energies that were set into motion. Nine is typically seen as a trinity of threes: the first stage of creation was established in three, then consciousness was harmonized in six, and finally we see the realization in the nine.

Nine is three times three, thrice the power of creation, bringing the process of creation to its result. It is a number that brings the beginning and the end together. Nine is actually where the journey of numbers in tarot wraps up.

The four nines of the minor arcana represent the final stage of action, reflection, thoughts, and deeds of the four suits. It heralds the end of a cycle and the natural winding down or closing stages of a period of your life. This does not mean that the situation is over and done with or gone forever. It means that it has run its natural course and is the peak of all you have done.

The four minor arcana suits enter a spring cleaning mode when you get to the number nine. This is a time to carefully sift through all that they have accumulated on their journey or cycle. You must be quite ruthless about certain things because not everything can be taken forward into their new cycle. You should only take what you discovered to be useful and valuable, and of course what has extreme sentimental or emotional attachment. There must be a thorough cleansing of the mind, body, emotions, and spirit before moving into the next cycle.

Many people do not like change. As humans, we have a tendency to fear the unknown and we never know what is on the other side of change. I hate it as much as the next person, but change is necessary. Change is the only constant. Without change, without endings, life would be very stagnant. Even when we don’t like change, even when we fight it, it can be good for us. Perhaps now is the time to let go of the things you’ve been fighting to hold on to. If we can let go, and embrace the change, something good will come of it. Easier said than done, I know. But it’s going to happen anyway, so we might as well make it easy on ourselves. 

Emily Guenther is a co-owner of The Broom Closet metaphysical shop. She is a Memphis native, professional tarot reader, ordained Pagan clergy, and dog mom.

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Metaphysical Connection: Three Rings of Magical Protection

Visualize a bubble completely encasing your home. (Photo: Nataliia Bondar | Dreamstime.com)

Have you heard of the three rings of magical protection? This is a technique I learned when I first began my spiritual path, and it has stuck with me since. I love sharing it because it’s unique and can be easy to do. You don’t need any supplies or items for this protection technique. What you will need is to be able to manipulate energy and visualize or talk yourself through the steps.

I typically teach this technique the way that I do it. It’s the way I am most familiar with, and I’m confident that it works that way. However, I am not you. Please feel free to take this idea and make it your own. 

It’s generally easier and more accurate to build this shield while at home. For one, it is easier to manipulate energy in the area that you are in than it is to try and manipulate energy from across town. Being at home also gives you a very good idea of where your property lines are or where you want to specifically shield. If building a shield or manipulating energy is new to you, or you have trouble visualizing, then going outside and looking at your home can also be very helpful.

To begin, visualize (or describe to yourself) a large black bubble completely encasing your home. This black bubble should go all the way around your home, above it, and underneath it. If you live in a building, your shield may likely end up cutting through your neighbor’s ceiling or upper corners. If you live in a freestanding structure like a house or trailer, you don’t have to worry about your energy shield being on someone else’s property. But you still want to make sure that your bubble goes under your home, so it will cut into the ground. This is the first ring of protection.

Under your black shield, envision a brown shield. This will be a second bubble, located underneath and inside of the black bubble. The brown shield is the second ring of protection. The third and final ring of protection is a white bubble inside the brown bubble. All three of these layers sit on top of each other and completely encase your home.

The first ring, the black bubble, is a protective energetic barrier. This ring is going to take the most hits and is going to do the most work. Black is the color we use most often for protection and hiding. The black layer is going to shield and hide your home from unwanted energies. However, it is always possible for something to get through. That is what the other two layers are for.

The second ring, the brown one, is a filter. Brown is a color associated with stability and grounding. If energy works its way through your first ring, when it comes into contact with the brown ring, the brown layer can help ground the energy. The brown ring of protection can, if used properly, send that energy down into the earth where the earth will recycle the energy and put it to use elsewhere. Brown is also associated with transformation. If energy comes through the black ring, the brown ring can also filter and change the energy.

The third ring, the white layer, is there to make sure that negative energy does not make it into your home. Once energy moves past the brown ring where it has been filtered and changed, it comes into contact with the final white ring of protection. White is a color that boasts a lot of associations including protection and blessings. Any energy that makes it to your white ring has been made neutral by the brown ring. If that energy makes it through your white shield to your home, that energy has now been transformed from unwanted, negative, or malicious to at worst neutral energy and at best a positive blessing.

This idea can be used in many ways. Let the three rings of magical protection inspire you to create a unique protection barrier for you and your home. 

Emily Guenther is a co-owner of The Broom Closet metaphysical shop. She is a Memphis native, professional tarot reader, ordained Pagan clergy, and dog mom.

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Metaphysical Connection: The Goddess Archetype

The Goddess is the personification of the divine feminine. (Photo: Kobylinsk | Pexels)

The spring equinox is here, and the rising energies of spring often make me think of The Goddess. In this instance, The Goddess is not a specific person, entity, or deity. Here we are talking about the archetype of The Goddess and how she shows up in our lives. Different religions look at the idea of The Goddess differently, but we do not have the space to break her down into such depths here. Today, we are going to focus on the “Big G” Goddess, this overarching energy that permeates so much of our life, even if we don’t always name it as such. 

The Goddess is the embodiment of the divine feminine — an energy inside everyone and everything — and is often associated with compassion, nurturing, forgiveness, intuition, and empathy. It’s the feminine aspect of divine power that has created galaxies and guides us in our lives. The divine feminine primarily focuses on the inner being and your own emotional world. Tapping into this energy can help you heal your mind, body, and soul, and can help you show more kindness to the world and those around you.

The energies of the divine masculine and divine feminine have been present in various spiritual traditions and belief systems throughout history. You might find lists explaining that divine masculine energy usually represents qualities like strength, action, logic, and rationality, while divine feminine represents qualities like intuition, nurturing, creativity, and emotional intelligence.

Everyone has these energies in their own unique combination. Regardless of gender identity or sexual preferences, each person is a distinctive combination of these action-oriented, divine masculine energies and the receptive-centered, divine feminine energies. This balance of energy in each one of us will shift over time, depending on what is going on in our lives and what qualities we want or need to cultivate. I know, for example, that I used to present more masculine energy than I do now. Over the last 10 years or so, I have cultivated my divine feminine energy and recognize that I carry more of that now than I used to.

The Goddess is the personification of the divine feminine. She has been worshipped across the world since humans developed spiritual inclinations. She is seen and honored more in pre-Christian religions and modern paganism, but she also shows up in Abrahamic faiths and other spiritual paths such as Hinduism and Buddhism.

We see The Goddess more clearly in our ancient and modern Pagan religions because she was never hidden away. I am not familiar with the religious beliefs of every pre-Christian culture; however, I feel confident in saying they likely had at least one Goddess in their pantheon.

The Goddess has always been a part of us, a part of our world. She is the earth mother who nurtures us and sustains life. She is the moon who pulls at our waters, the sun that guides us each day. Yes, some cultures identify the sun with goddesses and some identify the moon with gods.

We see The Goddess in every person we meet. It is our job to look for the divine in each person and in nature around us, and honor that. Every person who calls themselves woman carries aspects of The Goddess. They show her to us in so many wonderful ways. Every person who calls themselves man carries aspects of The Goddess as well. They show her to us in myriad ways, sometimes obviously but not always. Those who are gender neutral or fluid or who are nonbinary also show us aspects of The Goddess. We can find her everywhere we look and see her reflected back at us in unique ways.

Regardless of where we find her, or how we find her, she is there. The Goddess birthed us all. And in doing so, she gave each of us a piece of her to carry, to connect us with her, and to make sure we find our way home at the end of our journey. Hail The Goddess! 

Emily Guenther is a co-owner of The Broom Closet metaphysical shop. She is a Memphis native, professional tarot reader, ordained Pagan clergy, and dog mom.

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Fun Stuff Metaphysical Connection

Metaphysical Connection: The Depths of Pisces Season

Photo: Vvictori | Dreamstime.com

March is here and that means we’re halfway through Pisces season, a time we’re encouraged to shift our focus inward, as water signs like to do. Mysticism and dreaminess are at the core of tender-hearted Pisces, a mutable water sign. Their emotions flow and shift constantly, making it difficult for them to settle on a permanent decision. Pisces are incredibly imaginative and often find themselves daydreaming. But don’t underestimate them, once they commit to a feeling or idea, they can swiftly break free from anything that holds them back. As the last sign of the zodiac, they carry the wisdom of an “old soul” and have much to share.

A sensitive water sign, Pisces is represented by two fish, often called “the fishes with wishes” due to their powerful imagination and creative spirit. If you’re seeking kindness and empathy, look no further — Pisces is the most compassionate sign of the zodiac. Ruled by Neptune, the God of the Sea, these dreamy fish are spiritual and intuitive. 

With this mutable water energy, it’s no wonder that the tarot card associated with Pisces is The Moon. With Pisces as its ruling sign, this card represents visions and illusions, madness, genius, and poetry. At its darkest, this card can be daunting, warning of hidden enemies, mental illness, and addiction issues. However, at its best, The Moon signifies genius, mental breakthroughs, astonishing creativity, powerful magic, and intuition. I often refer to it as my “Van Gogh card.” 

Like Pisces, The Moon card is associated with the subconscious and often highlights idealism, suggesting that things are not as they may appear. It also represents our secretive side or “shadow self.” The dog and wolf on the card represent how our wild side blends with our tame side. This theme of unity can also be found in the towers, which symbolize the practical life most of us lead, while the path between them reminds us of the more meaningful life we desire. This is true to the nature of Pisces, who are always dreaming of something more fantastic than what is in front of them. The water on this card symbolizes the subconscious. The crustacean emerging from it represents “coming into consciousness” and the possession of psychic abilities, which is often true of those born under Pisces.

When The Moon card appears, it can indicate a time of emotional and mental trial for the querent. They may act on impulses that seem logical at the time, only to later question their actions with confusion. It’s a period when their mind plays tricks on them, making it an unsuitable time for decisions that require rational thought and clarity.

The Moon card can also signal a tumultuous period for relationships, marked by whirlwind romances that are intense but unreliable. For families and friends, it’s a time of emotional ups and downs.

This card represents the eerie, dreamy realm where the most powerful and dark magic and artistic talents reside. It symbolizes the extreme personalities who walk the fine line between artistic genius and madness. Here we find the wild, unpredictable individuals who create groundbreaking works with pen or paintbrush. These are the musicians with intense mood swings, battling dark depressions and charming manic episodes. They have no inhibitions and often disregard societal norms, resulting in behavior that can be both inspiring and unsettling, even sometimes dangerous. Yet, the art, poetry, and music they produce is nothing short of magic. The Moon is certainly a double-edged sword. 

The realm of this card is where seers, mediums, and spiritual leaders find themselves after extensive fasting, prayers, and meditation — finally achieving that holy vision. It is the enchanted forest of fairy tales, the mythic wasteland where heroes encounter spirits, oracles, sphinxes, and their own shadow selves. This otherworldly domain is unpredictable, and its influence on us is profound and transformative. Don’t be afraid of The Moon, but tread intentionally through its waters. 

Emily Guenther is a co-owner of The Broom Closet metaphysical shop. She is a Memphis native, professional tarot reader, ordained Pagan clergy, and dog mom.