So, if you're listening to the astrology babes and the mystical circles lately there has been a LOT of chatter about the TIME TO DO SHIT NOW! energy that comes with the sun entering Aries.

So I was kind of surprised by the card I drew for us today. But then... I realized it actually makes deep intuitive sense.

Our card this week is...

4 of Swords

Death in tarot cards almost never means actual death, so don't freak out just because there is a coffin in the picture. Ok?

Ok. Now that we've gotten that out of the way, here's what the card means for us this week:

With all the fiery go-go-go energy, it's very important to beware of burning out.

The way forward toward your goals requires action, sure. But it also requires way more rest than you'd tink.

And this isn't just a "you" thing. I'm not even calling you out. Our whole western capitalist society is hyper-focused on Do-ing, performing, producing, and as a result we often don't allow ourselves any time for Be-ing.

As I often say to my coaching clients, if you're ramping up your productivity you NEED to ramp up your rest, too. In much the same way as an Olympic athlete, when they get closer and closer to the big day, starts doing more intensive training and ALSO more intensive recovery.

Specifically, this week calls for Deep Rest. Sacred Rest. Meditative Rest. Silent Rest.

This looks like:

• long, solo walks in nature (with your dog, but without your headphones)
• yin yoga class instead of your usual power vinyasa
• quiet drives (or relaxing music) instead of podcasts and audiobooks
• meditation & practicing sitting in silence

Not going to lie, this kind of rest can feel deeply uncomfortable for those of us who grew up believing we always need to be doing something productive.

If that's you? Try this:

Easy AF Meditation*

Just take 10 deep breaths.

10 long inhales and exhales where you do nothing but breathe.

Try it when you first wake up and again before you go to bed, plus as-needed throughout the day.

*No meditation is easy all the time, but this one was the practice that got me started with consistent meditation. It's fast, it's simple, and you don't need to spend 20 minutes scrolling through Headspace or Calm trying to choose the "right" meditation. Just do it and let me know how it goes!

And if you're ready to take it to the next level:

The To-Do List Challenge - 4 of Swords Edition

This one was inspired by the picture on the card - 3 swords hang on the wall, ready to be used. One is buried in/on the tomb.

So, this week as you are making your to-do list, keep it to only the 4 most important items.

Then?

Cross one off the list.

Kill it. Bury it. It's not getting done today.

Do this with your weekly priorities and with your daily to-do list.

In the time you free up from that challenge? Rest.

Nap. Meditate. Watch the birds. Pet your dog. Do Nothing.

I'm not going to pretend like this is an easy challenge. I know it's a lot harder than it seems. For many of us, actually choosing to rest and sit quietly is one of the most impossible things we can try to do. If you need a little extra support for this one, I've got some room on my calendar and would be honored to support you.

And, of course, if you'd like a personalized reading for this week (or on any topic that's got you spiralling) you can request one here. ​

P.S. - If you missed my announcement, I'm starting a Substack for some of my more rambling essays and creative writing. If you miss that kind of email from me please subscribe at https://smallbrightmagic.substack.com/​