Oracle's Card of the Month: September '23

September leads us into the official start of Autumn! This month we have pulled the Queen of Pentacles card from The Rainbow Heart Tarot. Earthy, grounded, caring energy. After a Summer of harsh environmental tragedies, the message of this card seems spot-on.

In this deck the Queen of Pentacles is shown in front of a snow-capped mountain range. The Queen’s crown and the crystal cluster held near to their chest echo the purple colors and angled points of the mountains in the background. The Queen’s veil is decorated with autumn leaves and the warm tones contrast with the cool colors of the environment; a visual call to bring our own warmth as the outer temperatures cool.

As an archetype, the Queen of Pentacles is a keeper of resources. This card speaks to nurturing and tending to the physical world. The tiny crystal cluster held lovingly in the hands is a lovely symbol of the kind of care we should be taking for the larger world as a whole. The berries growing on the greenery framing this card serve as a reminder that we are dependent upon nature and its gifts.

This month as we transition into the Fall season, look to ways you can care for and remain connected to the Earth. That our relationship with nature requires care and attention.

Loot for small ways to remind yourself that we are of this planet (no matter how alien you may feel at times… Earth is home.) A pocket crystal, a cup of herbal tea, admiring the spectacular beauty of an insect’s wings. There is so much that is magical and awe-inspiring about the Earth.

Our newest zine is out now… “Oracle’s Crystal Guide” - a crystal-clear guide to a FEW of the world’s classic rocks! Written by me (Laura Pensar) and illustrated by Melissa Chepren. This full-color booklet includes information on more than 30 crystals, the mineral composition of each crystal, metaphysical associations, facts and tips. A great guide for the crystal curious and a perfect pocket reference for the seasoned rock hound!

For Strange Women has reformulated our Taxidermy Protector spray! It’s an all-natural-ingredient spray to help deter pests that may damage your precious taxidermy collection. The main ingredient is Hiba Cedar with other pure essential oils distilled from plant defense systems.

Woodchucks (also known as Groundhogs) create their homes in the Earth in extensive burrows. Although Woodchucks have many natural predators, they have many survival strategies including retreating to and hiding in their burrows, climbing trees, and when necessary defending themselves with their sharp claws and long incisor teeth.  Woodchucks are highly attuned to their surroundings and keep on the alert for potential dangers. When a threat has been detected they will signal to others in their colony by making a high-pitched whistling sound (which gives them the nickname of “whistle pig.”)

Ruby Zoisite (also known as Anyolite). Ruby found within Zoisite deposits. Said to aid in the manifestation of your ideas and dreams. Ruby is a “heart stone” associated with courage and strength. Zoisite is a stone of returning to the Earth and rebirth. Together this beautiful crystal embodies aligning with our goals and soothing our emotions through connection.

This month take some extra time to tend to the natural world within your sphere. Whether it’s a garden, a few house plants, a friendly pigeon that frequents your windowsill. Wherever you encounter nature in your life approach it with care and love. And remember, you too, are a part of nature so treat yourself with this same care. You are something precious as well. — Laura Pensar for Oracle Natural Science