<![CDATA[Divine Muses - divineMusings]]>

<![CDATA[Divine Muses - divineMusings]]>Sat, 21 Feb 2026 07:47:30 -0800Weebly<![CDATA[A Pause, a Breath, a Light Ahead: Reflections at this Solstice]]>Fri, 19 Dec 2025 10:45:11 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/a-pause-a-breath-a-light-ahead-with-reflections-warmth-this-solstice

A bridge across time, carrying centuries of stories. Toledo, Spain. © Maree Bento 2025.

As we approach Winter Solstice, I’ve been reflecting more on liminal spaces, those quiet times in between phases, the places where we can’t yet see what’s coming.

The past couple of years have been a time of deep transformation and listening for me. I've been living in that in-between, letting my work find its next shape.

During this time, I’ve been dancing with the Muse of Poetry—hearing Her voice and writing a mystical manuscript that has been helping me metabolize these years of adjustment. It’s been a different kind of devotion, one that asks me to slow down, surrender, and trust.

A moment of radiance at the Temple of Debod. Madrid, Spain. © Maree Bento 2025

I had hoped to rerelease The Antiquarian Tarot this year, but the practical realities of releasing it from abroad made it clear that this wasn’t the right time, so I decided to let it rest rather than force it. I’ll post updates when the time feels right.

Right now, the work that feels most alive for me is my astrology & tarot sessions, as well as my poems. They create intimate, grounded moments for reflection and guidance.

My decks and companion books are still part of the Divine Muses arc, and I’ll share more when they are ready to come into form again.

Thank you for being a part of this space with me.

Wishing you a peaceful turning of the light. Happy Holy-days and many blessings for the New Year.

*

If you feel drawn, I'm offering a limited number of astrology & tarot readings each month—up to six spots. I have some flexibility for time so when you book your session, choose the best time that works for you.

Gift certificates are also available if you would like to give the gift of Divine insight to someone you love.

]]><![CDATA[Summer Solstice Musings on Life & Work; Antiquarian Tarot Reprint Paused]]>Fri, 20 Jun 2025 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/happy-summer-divine-muses-update

Two of Swords, Antiquarian Tarot 3rd Edition ©Maree Bento 2022 Keywords: Impasse, Indecision

Happy summer! Here’s an update about what the hell is going on here regarding the deck creator side of things.

I sent out a poll last Fall asking Divine Muses subscribers to answer some questions for me regarding reprints for my deck creations.

I had wanted to know which of my decks to prioritize for rerelease. First place in that poll was the Antiquarian Tarot, so I started down the path to reprint it...

As I started reconnecting with the businesses I worked with in the past, I ran into some snags, which has derailed the reprinting of this set.

The last printing of the Antiquarian Tarot was the third edition. It was printed in the USA on a matte coated card stock, which I loved. Sadly, when I emailed my contact at the printer, he told me they had changed their machinery and were no longer offering the matte-coated stock.

I started considering printing in the EU, but the costs for me to ship packages from here to the USA have become astronomical—plus the post office just announced they will not be shipping goods to the USA.

Because of this, I’m taking another pause to consider this situation a bit more. Especially since over 90% of subscribers in the poll said they were located in the United States.

I have decided to just focus my attention on my tarot & astrology offerings to focus on adding more healing and clarity in this world.

It’s been a balance for me to create a new life here that isn’t just about doing and working, but being and healing too. The Two of Pentacles has repeatedly been popping up for me in readings over the past two years trying to drill this idea into my old workaholic head.

There have been some challenges as I adapt to my new life here. While it was exciting to move to Portugal, the land of my ancestors, there has been grief to process. I have been spending a lot of time trying to reconnect with my Self and sense of purpose again.

This is highlighting in my Reverse Nodal Return in my 6th and 12th house axis, which means I am taking this as a sacred opportunity to honor my daily routines (6th house) and spiritual practice (12th house) that create more balance and healing in my life. The Two of Pentacles card, which I pulled in my New Moon reading for this lunar cycle, reflects this perfectly! (See above photo from the Goddess Tarot.)

This has meant doing more self-reflection work and creating boundaries so that I can have more clarity, peace, and spiritual strength, especially in service (also 6th house) to my community.

We all need more clarity about our lives and we are needing more than ever to ground back into our real sense of purpose.

In Conclusion

This is not the end of me releasing decks. My hope is to reprint my works in the near future. I’m not completely closing the door on reprinting the Antiquarian Tarot. I remain open to whatever possibilities show up.

If you’d like to see what your tarot and astrology archetypes are saying about your life, my books are open for a limited number of readings each month.

I’m here to explore whatever questions you need to unpack this summer. The more we can understand the specific lessons we are traversing, the more we can get clarity and move with confidence and purpose.

Sending you all the love and blessings of The Sun energy this summer.

]]><![CDATA[The Dance of Duality: Reconciling Polarities of Planetary Oppositions in the Houses]]>Tue, 07 Jan 2025 16:32:34 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/the-dance-of-duality-reconciling-the-polarity-axis

In the cosmic dance of celestial spheres, oppositions are powerful catalysts for growth and self-discovery. This aspect occurs when two planets are at 180 degrees (opposite) in our chart, creating dynamic tension. While often viewed as a challenging aspect in astrology, oppositions give us the opportunity to recognize what is imbalanced in our lives and teach us how to integrate the planetary energies involved, as well as the two houses that the planets are lighting up.

In this article, we’ll look at the ways planetary interactions play out across the opposing house pairs, and learn how to harmonize and integrate these energies for personal growth.

An opposition often reflects internal tension, which creates a polarity energy in the two houses it is activating. This means you will need to reconcile (integrate and find balance in) these dual and opposing areas in your life.

Reconciling the polarity axis is about evaluating the imbalances between the two houses that are being activated in the planetary opposition.

When you notice an abundance of energy is leaning toward one side of the opposition, consider how you can balance it with the qualities of the opposite house. The key is to synergize the opposing forces.

You have to reconcile a polarity axis during significant life transits like:

Uranus Opposition (early 40s).
Saturn Opposition (mid-40s, halfway between Saturn Returns).
When slower-moving outer planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto) form oppositions to natal planets, as they also trigger processes for integration.
You might also reconcile a polarity axis with natal chart oppositions.

The process of reconciling the polarity axis is at the heart of working with oppositions in your chart. The energy of the planets being explored will also be of great note.

For example, the mid-life transits of Uranus Opposition and Saturn Opposition will have unique challenges and opportunities to consider along with integrating the Polarity Axis of the Houses.

Uranus Opposition will bring sudden changes and upheaval to one’s life where we see a period of self-discovery, innovation, and the need to break free from outworn patterns in life.
Saturn Opposition will bring challenges in one’s self-esteem and a need for structure, responsibility, and discipline. There is also a reality check in one’s limitations and a reassessment of career, ambitions, and longterm goals.

Let’s explore how an opposition might express itself as it lights up the two houses in your chart.

The Polarity Axes of the Astrological Houses

First Polarity Axis, 1st & 7th:
The House of Self and the House of Relationships

• Independence vs. partnership
• Self-assertion vs. compromise
• Autonomy vs. cooperation

How do you balance giving and receiving? Are you so focused on yourself that you struggle to relate to others? Or are you so dependent on others that you lose your sense of self and identity?

Reconciliation: Strive for interdependence, a balance of mutual support and individual autonomy, in your partnerships. Focus on personal growth while fostering meaningful connection. Maintain healthy boundaries that honors both self and relationships. Learn to be self-reliant yet open to collaboration.

Second Polarity Axis, 2nd & 8th:
The House of Values and the House of Transformation

• Your money & resources vs. shared possessions
• Material form vs. death & rebirth
• Your self-worth vs. intimacy
• Holding on vs. letting go
• Things vs. nothing

What have you accumulated and what do you need to let go? Are your material possessions overwhelming you, signaling it’s time to let go of some things? Do your things now feel more like a burden than a comfort? Do you guard your possessions at the expense of intimacy? Do you connect your worth to your things?

Reconciliation: Everything in moderation. Enjoy the pleasures in life without overdoing it through hoarding or greed. Find the middle ground between having and being enough.

Third Polarity Axis, 3rd & 9th:
The House of Communication and the House of Expansion

• Early education vs. higher education
• Learning vs. teaching
• Lower mind vs. higher mind
• Perception (what you think) vs. wisdom (what you know)
• Local environment vs. foreign travel & adventure
• Language & ideas vs. quest for meaning

Are you stuck in your own beliefs or biases, lacking the curiosity to explore other ideas and perspectives? Do you constantly research and look outside yourself for information or confirmation bias without forming your own opinions? Are your beliefs merely a reflection of those around you? Have you limited yourself by rarely venturing beyond your local area to explore the wider world?

Reconciliation: Practice critical thinking and cultivate curiosity. Stay open-minded. Listen to and speak with people from different cultures, countries, and belief systems from your own. Expand your horizons through study, travel, and new experiences.

Fourth Polarity Axis, 4th & 10th:
The House of Home and the House of Career

• Private life vs. public life
• Family vs. vocation
• Inner world vs. social status
• Emotional security vs. professional achievement
• Roots/foundation vs. aspirations

Are you spending so much time in your inner world that you feel disempowered in the outer world? Or, are you so focused on achieving in the world that you forget your home life? Do you struggle to balance your need for emotional security with your ambitions? Are you sacrificing your personal relationships for professional success, or vice versa?

Reconciliation: Prioritize work-life balance. Acknowledge the importance of both your inner foundation and outer ambitions. Nurture your personal life while pursuing professional goals.

Fifth Polarity Axis, 5th & 11th:
The House of Children and the House of Friends

• Individual creativity vs. collective endeavors
• Personal recreation vs. collaboration
• Self-expression vs. group identity
• Romance vs. friendship
• Introversion vs. extroversion

Are you so immersed in your own creative pursuits that you’ve neglected your community? Or are you constantly giving to others at the expense of your own creative expression. If you have children, do you find yourself so consumed with parenting that your friendships have gone by the wayside?

Reconciliation: Find ways to blend individual expression with community involvement. Host dinner parties or creative gatherings that include your friends and family. Become involved in group projects that appreciate your creative input. Use your unique talents to contribute to community goals. Find balance between nurturing your personal passions and fostering meaningful connections with others.

Sixth Polarity Axis, 6th & 12th:
The House of Health & Daily Routines and the House of Spiritual Transcendence

• The mundane vs. sacred
• Physical vs. spiritual
• Microcosm vs. macrocosm
• Reality vs. dreams
• Order vs. disorder
• Self-improvement vs. self-sacrifice

Are you so focused on your work routines that you leave no space for the spiritual side of life? Or are you so lost in dreaming that you neglect your duties and responsibilities.

Reconciliation: Turn your health goals into rituals. Honor your body as a vessel for spirit, establish daily routines to improve your holistic well-being. Integrate physical health with the divine realm through practices like energy work and yoga—uniting body, mind, and spirit. Make mindful sacrifices for the betterment of your health and spiritual growth.

]]><![CDATA[Unity in Light: The Spiritual Convergence of Christmas and Hanukkah]]>Sat, 21 Dec 2024 15:30:36 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/unity-in-light

A Winter Solstice Reading with the Magical Child Oracle

Reflecting on this unique alignment, one might wonder if it is just a coincidence or could it be a meaningful synchronicity? I think there is spiritual significance to Christmas and Hanukkah falling on the same day in 2024. It feels like a message. As both holidays land on December 25th this year, let’s consider the synchronicity of this convergence.

Both share themes of spiritual dedication and renewal that stretch back far beyond their current religious traditions. The sacred connection to the sky and to the emergence of the Light during the darkest part of the year is an age-old experience, echoed in Winter Solstice celebrations by ancient peoples across the globe.

If we look at this metaphorically in relation to our modern world, a world where we no longer look to the sky for its miracles and messages, but instead into the light of a screen—hoping to discover some piece of ourselves, craving to find answers and connections—our Divinity, our true Self, becomes obscured and overshadowed, casting us into darkness and creating spiritual static.

It’s challenging to see the magic in the sky when the world’s electric grids fade its star-filled wonder from us, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still turn inward and tune into the Light within—a microcosm that is a universe in itself.

Star Hero by Nicholas Roerich, 1933

This holiday season offers an opportunity to connect with the original spiritual significance of these winter celebrations: the triumph of Light over darkness. Both Christmas and Hanukkah were birthed during periods of profound darkness. These festivals remind us that light can emerge from the deepest darkness, symbolizing that hope and resilience can be born in the face of adversity.

This rare convergence invites us to celebrate our personal spiritual practice while also considering our shared humanity and collective existence on this planet. The different celebrations of Light can be a way for us to come together in unity, to see the paradox that our differences is what makes us whole in our humanity. This message isn’t limited to just this season; it’s a truth we can embrace in our daily lives throughout the year.

So, with this alignment of religious and spiritual holidays, perhaps we can trust that hope still flourishes even in the darkest of times. Through spiritual contemplation and a focus on our shared values, we can live in the light of hope, and honor the spirit that resides within us and permeates everything. We can hold hope in our hearts and connect with that Divine presence.

We don’t need to adhere to specific religions to connect with our divinity. There are many paths to Divine Truth. In my view, there is no right or wrong way—it’s all about connecting with faith and integrity through love, as Love is the core of our universe.

Our particular solar system is said to be the Heart Center of the “One,” and is thus the vehicle of expression…for Love/Wisdom. This endows the consciousness of our Solar System with Love/Wisdom as the primary quality of the expression of Its Life Force. Thus the more conscious a person becomes, the more loving, and the more loving, the more conscious. In our solar system, the words “love” and “consciousness” mean and are the same thing. All the problems of the individual and of humanity have to do with a block in (and most important, may be resolved by) the flow of love/consciousness. Once this block is freed—once a channel is opened up to the flow of love/consciousness—the needed healing takes place. Then abundance replaces lack on any level and balance is restored. —Alan Oken, Soul-Centered Astrology, p. 90

Alan Oken’s words beautifully reflect our interconnectedness with the One—that that universal Light teaches us love is the way to heal our suffering here on Earth. As we reflect on the convergence of Christmas and Hanukkah, may we open ourselves to this flow of Love and embrace the Light that unites us all.

Happy Holi-days and Many 2025 Blessings!

]]><![CDATA[Uranus Opposition, Part II: Letting Go and Moving Forward: My Uranus Opposition Experience]]>Mon, 16 Dec 2024 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/uranus-opposition-part-ii-letting-go-moving-forward

In part I of this series, I introduce the Uranus Opposition, so be sure to read that essay for context. The following article explores my personal experience with this major life transit.

Uranus was transiting the 8th House opposite my natal Uranus in the 2nd House starting July 2020. It was first exact July 2022 when David and I started discussing selling our house and moving to Portugal.

This meant confronting all of our stuff, my stuff really, reflected by my natal 2nd House of Possessions. I had accumulated years’ worth of things: books, tarot, oracle decks, crystals, jewelry, clothes, and shoes, along with the artwork, music equipment, records, vintage glassware that we had collected together over 15 years, not to mention our home decor & furnishings.

What we see in my experience was the need to reconcile the Second Polarity Axis of the 2nd House of Possessions & Values and the 8th House of Death & Shared Resources:

what I own (2nd House) and what I share (8th House);
what I’m holding onto (2nd) and what I need to let go of (8th).

As Uranus transited into exact opposition, I felt the 8th House of Death (& Rebirth) urging me to release every single thing in my life that I no longer needed, and to focus only on the items that I truly valued and wanted to take with me (2nd House).

Uranus’ upheaval in my life at that moment was unavoidable. I certainly could not take everything with me, nor did I want to! Plus there was the matter of our biggest shared resource, which we both adored and had to let go of—our home of 10 years!

We started talking with our real estate agent in October 2022—the 2nd time Uranus went exact opposite in my chart. We needed to get ready to prepare for selling the house in the Spring by clearing things out. We began going through everything and posting as many items that we could sell—valuables from which we could make money (2nd House), as well as release from our lives (8th House).

This is how I started to reconcile the polarity of the 2nd and 8th Houses. You can read more about reconciling oppositions in my post: The Dance of Duality.

To be honest, I grappled with all of this. I was very comfortable in my home with my things. I’m organized and everything has its place, but as soon as we began sorting through it all, the chaos and upheaval of Uranus Opposition hit me.

Uranus in the 8th was encouraging me to let go, simplify my life, and move forward into a new chapter with less baggage.

Uranus and the Dance of the Stars by Karl Friedrich Schinkel, 1834

The minimalist movement had been inspiring me at the time. It seemed so liberating to pare down to only the essentials. I remember a time in my life when I had fewer possessions. I had somewhat become a maximalist along the way.

My artist self has an appreciation for design and the craftsmanship behind how things are created. I enjoy my little collections. Yet I knew we needed to downsize to set foot on this new path.

How could I reconcile this? I decided that there must be a middle ground and honed in on that. During this time, I found out that midimalism was a thing!

It was definitely a process, but it became easier as I started identifying things I was eager to part with. David and I aimed to keep 40% of our belongings. We got into the flow of things as we started making decisions on what to let go of and what to keep.

In the end, we were happy with how much we culled—only keeping the things we truly valued. It took time, and it wasn’t without fault. When I look back at this process, there were a few things that I wish we’d kept. But, we had to touch every item and sometimes make quick decisions.

This culling process took a few months, but we managed our way through it all until we sold our house in the Spring and said good-bye to it—just as my Uranus Opposition reached its third and final exact aspect!

As I navigated this process of letting go and redefining my possessions, I realized that the transformative energy of Uranus Opposition not only challenged me to release what no longer served me, but also empowered me to embrace the impermanence of everything.

Had I given in to the fear of letting go of our comfortable home and most of our belongings, I would never have embarked on this adventure we are on.

We had to lighten our load to transform our life.

]]><![CDATA[Uranus Opposition, Part I: Consciously Navigating Your Astrological Midlife]]>Mon, 09 Dec 2024 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/uranus-opposition-part-i

When you enter your early 40s, you will experience one of astrology’s major life transits, the Uranus Opposition. This is when the transit of Uranus becomes opposite (180º) your natal Uranus. Much like the significant life transit of your Saturn Return (28-30), you can expect the transformative power of Uranus to usher you into a new phase of your evolution. How this transit might personally affect your life is explored below.

This major astrological transit often coincides with the struggles commonly known as the midlife crisis. This timing is no coincidence; the Hermetic axiom As Above, So Below, As Within, So Without is always relevant when considering all things spiritual and astrological. In this context, we see how the external influences of the Uranus Opposition mirror the internal conflicts we face during this pivotal turning point in life.

Uranus takes 84 years to orbit the Sun, reaching opposition to your natal Uranus at about the halfway point in life. This is why it’s often called the astrological midlife.

During this transit, we start reflecting on the first half of our lives—where we’ve been and how we arrived at our current path. It’s the time to consider how you want the second half of your life to unfold.

For Tarot readers, the Uranus Opposition is akin to The Tower card. If you’re familiar with this archetype, you’ll understand its influence in bringing about major changes and upheaval. The key to navigating these challenging times is trusting in the process and embracing its offer of renewal once the dust has cleared.

Tower cards: Majestic Earth Tarot, Lua Tarot, Mystical Tarot, Antiquarian Tarot, Victorian Romantic Tarot, Book of Thoth Etteilla Tarot, Crowley's Thoth Tarot, Albano Waite Tarot, Spirit Keeper's Tarot Revelation, and Terra Volatile

The reality of officially entering midlife can be hard to grasp. We may start comparing ourselves to others, focusing more on our perceived faults and imperfections, and ways we need to compensate to stay youthful and keep up with all the new…everything. There are so many ways we do this that is unhealthy and truly unnecessary.

Crossing the threshold of 40 has given many of us pause and apprehension. This is when we start noticing some shifts in our physical form; from wrinkles to sun spots, gray hairs to receding hairlines, weight gain to spikes in cholesterol, body pains, menstrual changes, fatigue, and more!

But take heed of the adage that life begins at 40, and consider this a message that you’re not getting too old!

This is a time to reinvent yourself. There’s no rule saying we can’t keep experimenting and making adjustments as we age. Midlife is an opportunity to reevaluate where we are now and how we need to recalibrate things. Use this Uranus energy to your advantage!

The Dance of Duality: Reconciling Polarities During Uranus Opposition

Let’s explore the Houses where Uranus Opposition is lighting up in your chart. These are the areas of life where Uranus is transforming or bringing radical change—where you may currently experience the most conflict or intensity. This doesn’t necessarily mean there will be complete tumult in your life, especially if you’re self-aware and doing your astrology instead of letting the astrology do you.

However, an opposition is often a challenging aspect that reflects internal tension. It creates a polarity energy in the Houses, which means you will need to reconcile (integrate and find balance in) these dual and opposing areas in your life.

For example, if Uranus is transiting your 6th House opposite your natal Uranus in the 12th House, you may be experiencing changes and upheaval in the area of your physical health. This is where you need to find ways to improve daily self-care (6th House) while also looking to the spiritual and mystical 12th House. Are there repressed parts of yourself that could be affecting your health? What sacrifices do you need to make in order to improve your well-being? This is where new routines and commitments may have to be considered.

Someone born in 1980 with Uranus transiting the 6th House opposite their 12th House Uranus (2024-25).

Instead of focusing too much on what’s outside in the physical realm (6th House), turn inward to hone the deeper beauty of your wise Self (12th). Balance is always key when reconciling the polarity. By all means, take care of your skin to keep it youthful. However, we can also shift our perspective to focus on keeping it healthy and hydrated to honor our aging skin.

With the 6th & 12th House polarity, skincare can become a more ritualized practice. We might now prioritize taking better care of our bodies—as vessels for our spiritual selves—instead of the neglect we may have gotten away with in our youth when the consequences seemed less dire. By integrating the daily routines of the 6th House with the spiritual awareness of the 12th, we can create a holistic approach to self-care that nurtures both body and soul.

The Polarity Axes of the Astrological Houses

Reconciling the polarity axis is about evaluating the imbalances between the two Houses that Uranus is activating. If you find an abundance of energy is leaning more to one side, consider how you can balance it with the qualities of the opposite House. The key is to synergize these opposing forces during your Uranus Opposition. How can you harmonize these energies to create a more balanced and dynamic life experience?

First Polarity Axis, 1st & 7th:
The House of Self and the House of Relationships

• Independence vs. partnership
• Self-assertion vs. compromise
• Autonomy vs. cooperation

How do you balance giving and receiving? Are you so focused on yourself that you struggle to relate to others? Or are you so dependent on others that you lose your sense of self and identity?

Reconciliation: Strive for interdependence, a balance of mutual support and individual autonomy, in your partnerships. Focus on personal growth while fostering meaningful connection. Maintain healthy boundaries that honors both self and relationships. Learn to be self-reliant yet open to collaboration.

Second Polarity Axis, 2nd & 8th:
The House of Values and the House of Transformation

• Your money & resources vs. shared possessions
• Material form vs. death & rebirth
• Your self-worth vs. intimacy
• Holding on vs. letting go
• Things vs. nothing

What have you accumulated and what do you need to let go? Are your material possessions overwhelming you, signaling it’s time to let go of some things? Do your things now feel more like a burden than a comfort? Do you guard your possessions at the expense of intimacy? Do you connect your worth to your things?

Reconciliation: Everything in moderation. Enjoy the pleasures in life without overdoing it through hoarding or greed. Find the middle ground between having and being enough.

Third Polarity Axis, 3rd & 9th:
The House of Communication and the House of Expansion

• Early education vs. higher education
• Learning vs. teaching
• Lower mind vs. higher mind
• Perception (what you think) vs. wisdom (what you know)
• Local environment vs. foreign travel & adventure
• Language & ideas vs. quest for meaning

Are you stuck in your own beliefs or biases, lacking the curiosity to explore other ideas and perspectives? Do you constantly research and look outside yourself for information or confirmation bias without forming your own opinions? Are your beliefs merely a reflection of those around you? Have you limited yourself by rarely venturing beyond your local area to explore the wider world?

Reconciliation: Practice critical thinking and cultivate curiosity. Stay open-minded. Listen to and speak with people from different cultures, countries, and belief systems from your own. Expand your horizons through study, travel, and new experiences.

Fourth Polarity Axis, 4th & 10th:
The House of Home and the House of Career

• Private life vs. public life
• Family vs. vocation
• Inner world vs. social status
• Emotional security vs. professional achievement
• Roots/foundation vs. aspirations

Are you spending so much time in your inner world that you feel disempowered in the outer world? Or, are you so focused on achieving in the world that you forget your home life? Do you struggle to balance your need for emotional security with your ambitions? Are you sacrificing your personal relationships for professional success, or vice versa?

Reconciliation: Prioritize work-life balance. Acknowledge the importance of both your inner foundation and outer ambitions. Nurture your personal life while pursuing professional goals.

Fifth Polarity Axis, 5th & 11th:
The House of Children and the House of Friends

• Individual creativity vs. collective endeavors
• Personal recreation vs. collaboration
• Self-expression vs. group identity
• Romance vs. friendship
• Introversion vs. extroversion

Are you so immersed in your own creative pursuits that you’ve neglected your community? Or are you constantly giving to others at the expense of your own creative expression. If you have children, do you find yourself so consumed with parenting that your friendships have gone by the wayside?

Reconciliation: Find ways to blend individual expression with community involvement. Host dinner parties or creative gatherings that include your friends and family. Become involved in group projects that appreciate your creative input. Use your unique talents to contribute to community goals. Find balance between nurturing your personal passions and fostering meaningful connections with others.

Sixth Polarity Axis, 6th & 12th:
The House of Health & Daily Routines and the House of Spiritual Transcendence

• The mundane vs. sacred
• Physical vs. spiritual
• Microcosm vs. macrocosm
• Reality vs. dreams
• Order vs. disorder
• Self-improvement vs. self-sacrifice

Are you so focused on your work routines that you leave no space for the spiritual side of life? Or are you so lost in dreaming that you neglect your duties and responsibilities.

Reconciliation: Turn your health goals into rituals. Honor your body as a vessel for spirit, establish daily routines to improve your holistic well-being. Integrate physical health with the divine realm through practices like energy work and yoga—uniting body, mind, and spirit. Make mindful sacrifices for the betterment of your health and spiritual growth.

Embracing the Evolution of Your Next Chapter

It’s true that Uranus Opposition can wreak havoc in our lives, but it doesn’t have to! We can embrace its dynamic and reinvigorating energy without succumbing to the upheaval. This transit is challenging us to reconcile the polarities and contradictions that create conflict in our lives. By acknowledging this powerful transit, we can emerge stronger and more aligned with our authentic Self, poised to step boldly into the next chapter of our evolution.

Having recently experienced this transit myself, in my next post I share some insights with the clarity that hindsight brings—as is often the case with astrology.

If you would like to learn more about Uranus in your chart, I’d be happy to explore it with you. You can book a reading with me here.

]]><![CDATA[Readings Combining the Power of Tarot and Astrology]]>Mon, 11 Nov 2024 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/combining-the-power-of-tarot-and-astrology

Hiatus is over and I'm happy to announce my schedule is open for online readings! I love combining the sacred tools of tarot & astrology in my readings. Connecting with clients and helping them get clarity about their most pressing issues is such a privilege.

If your life seems more challenging than usual lately, something cosmic might be affecting your personal sky map! You may be in the midst of a major life transit. As above, so below...

My readings often focus on reconnecting you to your personal life purpose and soul mission—what's truly important in your life. But, I know there are other concerns, like love and career questions, that need to be unpacked sometimes and I'm here to look into that with you too!

When necessary, I bring in tools from my knowledge base and other healing modalities from my 20 years practicing massage therapy, yoga, feng shui, and energy work. For example, if you need advice about your love life, we can explore any potential energy blockages occurring in your body and/or home.

It's my hope that the synthesis of my studies in the healing and mystical arts will provide a holistic experience that guides my clients to realign body, mind, and spirit.

If you have questions or concerns about a challenging situation, I invite you to make an appointment here for your one-on-one session.

]]><![CDATA[French Divine Muses Oracle is Still Available]]>Thu, 10 Oct 2024 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/french-divine-muses-oracle-is-still-available

One of my decks is still in print! Beautifully printed by Arcana Sacra, the French Edition of the Divine Muses Oracle, oracle cards and companion guidebook, are still available for the French speaking part of the world. You can purchase them from their website and in book shops in Canada and the EU.

The oracle cards come with a glossy, colorful booklet inside a strong two-piece box. The large companion guidebook (also glossy and colorful) is a separate purchase if you want an in-depth exploration of the cards in French!

Divines Muses Oracle - Edition française Boîte cloche

Divines Muses Oracle Livre d'interprétations

]]><![CDATA[Long Overdue Update!]]>Mon, 07 Oct 2024 17:08:27 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/long-overdue-update

Twenty months have gone by in just a snap of the fingers! But when I think back, it was not that snappy.

It has been quite the journey with many twists and turns, but David and I (and Dante) have finally settled into our new home in Portugal, where we can now relax and exhale into a new way of life.

I'm grateful to be living where my family and ancestors hail, speaking my mother tongue, and absorbing the sunshine in new ways that the Pacific NW was not capable of giving. But, I have to be honest...

I still miss my family, friends, and Portland too!

The emotional lessons of letting go and starting anew have been challenging to say the very least for my Capricorn Moon Soul.

However, my Sagittarius Heart is open and excited for all the traveling, new experiences, and connections, new and old, that we are making here.

I am getting back to a regular routine and learning what the next chapter of Divine Muses will look like.

Over the past year, I read your emails and am so sorry for not getting back to them all. I hear you and see that there is interest in a reprint of some kind for my decks. Thank you for voicing your support!

While it was gratifying to be able to ship my decks and books directly to you, I may have to do things differently from Portugal.

I have done the print-on-demand, crowd-funding, and pre-order routes. I also worked with a mass-publisher in France. All have their pros and cons.

I am putting together a survey to ask my newsletter subscribers for their input about deck reprints. If you are subscribed, please look for my email to share your thoughts.

Thank you for supporting me as I continue to channel Divine Muses!

]]><![CDATA[2023 Blessings! Divine Muses Hiatus ☀ Coming Soon]]>Thu, 05 Jan 2023 19:12:29 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/2023-blessings-divine-muses-hiatus

Here is hoping your year is off to a good start, despite Mercury and Mars being retrograde at this Cancer Full Moon.

These two retrograde planets can make moving forward into the new year more challenging, but they are giving us permission to take pause to retreat, reflect, and review. Which, as it happens, is part of the reason I am writing this.

My Divine Muses shop will be going on hiatus soon. I am taking a break from selling my deck creations. (More on this below.)

I have a few Divine Muses Oracle sets remaining if you would like one before they are gone.

The rest of my decks (Lua Tarot, Lua Lenormand, Antiquarian Tarot, Antiquarian Lenormand, Magical Child Oracle) are sold out until further notice. There are no current plans to reprint for 2023.

For those of you who purchased decks from me: Thank you ever so much! May they be tools for inspiration to create joy, balance, and wholeness in your life.

David and I are planning to move after being in our home for almost 10 years and in Oregon for more than 20 years. We have already begun the process of letting go of stuff and minimizing, which has its thrills and challenges.

I have been making decks for 10 years now (I cannot believe it's been that long!) and with the completion of the Magical Child Oracle, it is time to take a breather. And, with this move on the horizon, it feels synchronistic.

Running Divine Muses has been a lot of work. And while it is gratifying, I do need a break to reflect on my purpose and path, since the day-to-day can be all consuming. I will continue to offer limited tarot & astrology sessions, as well as deck creator consultations.

I am so grateful for how Divine Muses has grown over the years. Some of you have supported from the start and I sincerely thank you for believing in me and my work!

My Year Card

Justice is my card for 2023 and it is asking me to balance the scales of my life. I let my self-care routine slide, especially at the height of the pandemic, and jumped more into my work. To be honest, I am reluctant to take time off, but it's time for me to press pause and recalibrate.

If you have been following Divine Muses, thank you for being on this journey with me. I'll send out an email when I have an update. If you are not already, please subscribe to my rarely sent newsletter.

Many bright blessings to you and yours in 2023!

Love and magic always,

Maree

]]><![CDATA[Divine Muses Planted 670 Trees in 2022!]]>Tue, 03 Jan 2023 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/divine-muses-planted-670-trees-2022

Happy New Year! I wanted to share the news that Divine Muses orders planted 670 trees in Oregon, Portugal, and Thailand. If you placed an order in 2022, thank you so much for supporting reforestation efforts! Not only did you help support my small business, your purchase also planted trees around the world.

There are still some Divine Muses Oracle sets remaining in my shop. Orders will continue to have a tree planted somewhere in the world where it is needed.

Thank you and many 2023 blessings!!

]]><![CDATA[Divine Muses Oracle Cards Solstice Reading]]>Thu, 15 Dec 2022 22:48:38 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/divine-muses-oracle-cards-solstice-reading

Happy Holidays! Pick an oracle card for a message about your upcoming Solstice and/or Holiday festivities and read the section for it below. 🌟

Or read all three if you’re feeling a multi-layered reading from the Divine Muses Oracle! This oracle reading uses the Magical Child Oracle spread:

1. The Magic You Need to Remember: Psychic Portal. The Psychic Portal is the bridge to another realm. It’s a gateway through which we can make contact with spirits, ancestors, elementals, guides, and our higher self. The third eye can be worked to attune our sixth sense, which can help us to open this mystical gateway. Using divination tools can help us connect through the realms. This card is affirming your gift as an empath, psychic or medium who can decrypt these mystical letters from the Universe. Don’t forget this magic. It can be useful during this time.

2. Magical Wisdom that Helps Now: Raven King. This card reflects the first step in the alchemical process. In order to evolve, sometimes we have to surrender and let go, but old habits can die hard. It’s time to start tossing out what doesn’t work anymore into the alchemical fire. The Raven King can show the beginning of a period of discovery, a time to go deep within to find your true nature. Time to start paring down and removing the dross that can keep you confused, stuck and stagnant. By removing these outer, crusty layers, we become Lighter and can more easily focus on what’s significant and needs our attention most.

3. How to Focus Your Dreams: Muse of Comedy. The Muse of Comedy likes to live in the moment and asks that you do too with full enjoyment. Play, make jokes, and have fun! Whatever you do, this Muse wants you to lighten your mood and bring more fun into your life. Try not to be too serious about everything. Life is short! Enjoy what is precious and lights you up.

Happy Holidays! 🌟 May your celebration of the Season be filled with cheer, laughter, and love. ♥️

There are about 50 Divine Muses Oracle sets left in my shop. I'm shipping these out Priority Mail (USA). A sweet gift for for the magic one in your life!

]]><![CDATA[Bundle My Two Oracle Decks]]>Mon, 21 Nov 2022 07:26:58 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/bundle-my-two-oracle-decks

You may now get the Divine Muses Oracle and Magical Child Oracle sets together in this listing. We are quickly approaching the holidays, so I wanted to put my two oracle decks in a bundle in the shop. Both of these oracle decks feature my handmade mixed-media collages.

The Magical Child Oracle is a pocket size oracle deck that is a tool for inner child work. My intention while I was making it was to light-heartedly connect with my inner child. The idea here is to bring more wonder, hope, and magic back into our hearts, and to clear some of the pessimism, doubt, and judgment that can sometimes cloud the adult mind.

The magical child wants us to focus more on the divine beauty and joy—all the magic—that still exists in this world.

Click for more details about the Magical Child Oracle.

The Magical Child Oracle’s journey began after I created the Magical Child card for the Divine Muses Oracle. That one card sprouted the seeds for the Magical Child Oracle deck.

The Divine Muses Oracle set was intentionally crafted and channeled into a working deck for creative card readers, diviners, and mages who study alchemy, archetypes, and the occult; and for mystics or witches who practice divination, ancestral, and shadow work. The idea here is to unlock creative, psychic, and spiritual potential, and invite us to examine our Shadow and unearth our Essence.

The Divine Muses seeks to explore creativity, mysticism, and healing using the archetypal forces found in alchemy, magic, and mythology to support insight, self-realization, and transformation.

Click for more details about the Divine Muses Oracle.

The Divine Muses Oracle was completed and released in 2019. Four years later, after being on and off the back burner, the Magical Child Oracle is finally available!

Now you can purchase both sets together as a bundle in the shop.

]]><![CDATA[Magical Child Oracle Pre-Orders Shipped]]>Fri, 18 Nov 2022 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/magical-child-oracle-pre-orders-shipped

For the past few days I have been packing the Magical Child Oracle pre-orders. There was a group of packages mailed yesterday and the rest were mailed today! If you pre-ordered, you should have received an email with tracking information.

In that email, there’s also a PDF download of artwork for the Magical Child Oracle Spread. Be sure to look for that link in your tracking email.

I hope you enjoy playing with this deck! I’m so grateful for the culmination of this project and for all of your sweet support!

As I was putting these pocket-sized sets into their packages, I saw so many familiar names who have supported my previous releases. I want to express my deep appreciation for your constant support of my deck babies all of these years.

It’s been about 10 years since I started creating my first deck! It’s unbelievable all the time that has passed. I have so much gratitude for all the people I have met, the friends I have made, and how I have grown as a reader by creating these decks.

It’s been such a sweet journey. Thank you for being on it with me!

Love and magic always,

Maree

DivineMuses.net

]]><![CDATA[Magical Child Oracle Decks Have Arrived! Cleansing & Pitching with the Solfeggio Frequency Tuning Forks]]>Tue, 15 Nov 2022 18:59:56 GMThttps://www.divinemuses.net/divinemusings/magical-child-oracle-cleansing-and-pitching-with-solfeggio-frequency-tuning-forks

The Magical Child Oracle decks are here! Still waiting on the guidebooks, which will be here in the next day or so.

While we wait, I'm clearing the cards and raising frequency using 417hz tuning fork, and as seen in the photo 174hz and 639hz tuning forks while 417hz music plays in the background. ✨

The 417hz tuning fork is a great clearing tool. It is the Solfeggio healing frequency Resonare fibris. It is the Re of Do-Re-Mi. While 417hz is a great cleanser, it is also an uplifting and creative energizer.

The larger 174hz tuning fork in the photo is the Soul Star frequency. It is the lowest tone in my Solfeggio set and helps to unify the material, or physical realm with spirit, the cosmic consciousness. The smaller 639hz fork is the Heart frequency Famuli tuorum, which encourages love, harmony, communion, compassion, and understanding. It is the Fa of Do-Re-Mi-Fa-So-La-Ti-Do.

The shipping labels are prepped and ready to print out. Once I have the books, I'll be working to get all pre-orders out. ✨💌✨

If you pre-ordered, keep a look out for your tracking email in the near future, which will also include a PDF download of the Magical Child Oracle Spread.

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