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Defying the Idea that Spiritual Practices are a Falsehood

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Leeds chapter.

For centuries, the belief in the effects and impact that spiritual beliefs such as astrology, tarot cards and crystals, have had on our society, is unmatched.

Similarly, how the moons affect the tides, the way in which tidal force causes the earth to bulge out and create the waves, the planets affect the personalities and lives of humans:

so why can’t our solar system impact us?

Within astrology, our sun sign is the centre of our life and the core of our personality. Surrounding this is several other planets in association with other star signs. This includes one’s moon sign, how you perceive yourself, your rising sign, how other individuals perceive you, your Venus sign, how you act in relationships (whether platonic or romantic) and your Mercury sign, your ability to communicate with others – the planet of the mind -, to list a few. The collectivity of these signs’ is what curates your personality.

The stereotypical assumption about astrology is that everyone is assigned to one sign and should only relate to that sign, however, this is the only falsehood within astrology; not that astrology has no effect on humans in society. Understanding your personality and the person you are is the essence of astrology, the significance is not to allocate yourself with one sign and attempt to associate conclusively with it, but to recognise your strengths and weaknesses in life and attempt to adapt and change.

Tarot cards are a further method of self-reflection. A form of guidance in your life can be perceived through this practice and as Jenni Miller states, tarot cards do not predict the future, but they may help you to figure out yours.

Through question readings and open readings, the cards allow one to steer themselves towards a decision on different aspects of their life rather than the assumption that the cards hold powers to dictate the future.

The metaphysical properties of crystals have been deemed as a great use for many years especially in traditional Chinese medicine and Ancient Egypt. Contrasting cultures interpret crystals differently but through modern values. Crystals are deemed to have significant healing properties through their differing vibrations and frequencies which each have varying benefits.

For example, Gold Tiger’s Eye encourages confidence and combats shyness, whereas Fluorite aids with memory and concentration. These energies are formed through the energies within the sun, moon and other planets, essentially linking the effects of astrology, tarot and crystals together through their metaphysical properties and attempts to encourage personal thought and contemplation.

Ultimately the spiritual practices of tarot card reading, crystals and astrology enable individuals to encourage self-reflection in their lives, personality and in society in general rather than preaching divination.

Words by: Eloise Barnes

Edited by: Matilda Fairgrieve.

Senior Editor of Her Campus Leeds with a passion for writing and editing.