As the days grow longer and we dive into the new year, it’s the perfect time to focus on bringing in positivity, light, and a sense of renewal. While “New Year, New Me” is a common phrase, this time of year genuinely lends itself to introspection and planning your spiritual path for the months ahead.
At The Wandering Witch, our ongoing joke during low-energy moments is that we’re in “Croning” mode. The holidays take a significant toll on our social batteries, mental health, and energy levels. (Seasonal affective disorder is very real – don’t forget your Vitamin D!) The back-to-back gatherings can leave us feeling drained, and sometimes what we truly need is a night in to ground and recharge. This time of year always reminds me of The Hermit tarot card, one of my personal favorites.
The Hermit card resonates deeply during the chaotic holiday season, when the noise and intensity of everyday life seem amplified. Even a simple family dinner can feel overwhelming with the mix of personalities, opinions, and well-meaning advice from loved ones. The Hermit reminds us that while external voices and guidance can be valuable, the most important voice is our own.
The Hermit’s journey is one of self-discovery, guided by the light of his lantern. That light illuminates his next step but not the full path ahead. This is a powerful metaphor for trusting your intuition and life experiences to guide you. Ultimately, the decisions you make are yours alone. It’s your life, and no one else can live it for you. Your emotions, anxieties, and excitements are valid and should serve as tools to help you craft your best future.
Standing alone at the top of the mountain, the Hermit reflects on his journey and the progress he’s made. His solitude isn’t born of frustration or rejection of others but a desire to find clarity through silence and amplify his inner wisdom. When external voices drown out your inner compass, it’s essential to step away, reflect, and evaluate. Look back on your successes and even your mistakes. How can you adapt and grow to achieve your goals? Trust your inner light to guide you confidently into the future.
That said, there’s a fine line between introspection and isolation. Personally, I’ve struggled with taking “time to myself” a bit too far, slipping into unproductive habits like “bedrotting” instead of reaching out for support. I recall, just a few weeks ago, where my “time to myself” turned into endless hours scrolling through my phone, avoiding texts and calls. I felt even more drained because I’d cut myself off from the people who cared about me. It’s crucial to remember that asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a testament to the trust, love, and connection you share with your community. Leaning on others, especially during a spiritual journey, can be transformative.
For years, I called myself a “Solitary Witch” and believed my craft was something I couldn’t share with others. That changed when I discovered The Wandering Witch. As a first-generation American, my practice is deeply rooted in the cultures of my Mexican and Cuban ancestors and folk magic. During my first ‘Witchy Wednesday’ gathering, I was amazed by how much I learned from other seasoned witches.
From exploring the Greek pantheon to hearing about the Fae or discovering herbs I’d never encountered, these gatherings have been an incredible opportunity to expand my knowledge. I still vividly remember one gathering where we discussed rosemary – something I’d always used for cleansing – and learning how to use it to make prosperity honey! I even got to film a video tutorial, so you could try too! Even something as simple as discussing a crystal reveals diverse perspectives and experiences that enrich my craft.
Community plays a vital role in spiritual growth. Through shared stories, guidance, and knowledge, we gain valuable insights that help us evolve. Even as an experienced tarot reader, there are moments when I need to step back from my deck and ask for a fresh perspective.
Whether it’s Skylar or Lexi pulling cards for me, or offering their unbiased interpretation of my spread, this collaboration helps ground me and provides clarity. I remember a particularly tough reading where I kept seeing what I wanted to see in the cards. Lexi pointed out a different interpretation that completely changed how I approached the situation, and it ended up being exactly what I needed.
The Hermit’s lantern reminds us that the journey is about taking one step at a time. When our heads are in the clouds or we’re overly focused on the end goal, we can lose sight of the steps we need to take to get there. By embracing a grounded mindset, we can navigate our path with purpose and avoid becoming overwhelmed. Let your inner light shine confidently—it’s your most reliable guide for the road ahead.
