I’m a ho for monthly tarot spreads, so when I came across this one from Lori Lytle at Inner Goddess Tarot, I had to try it out.

Ideally, you do this on the first of the month, but since I’m also dedicated to posting on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, this one is going up on the 2nd.

First, shuffle and draw 12(!) cards.

I’m not sure I understand the spread’s intention in the difference between “Focus on” and “Do”, as well as “feed your soul” vs. “bring you joy.” Are these not synonymous with each other? Regardless, I pulled a dozen cards from the Creatures Tarot deck by Sara Kathleen.

• Keep from July: Death
• Release from July: 7 of Pentacles
• Main theme of August: 8 of Swords
• Be aware of: 10 of Swords
• Focus on: The Tower
• Do: 3 of Cups
• Don’t do: 2 of Cups
• Opportunities & possibilities: The Lovers, The Hierophant, Wheel of Fortune
• What will feed your soul: The Chariot
• What will bring you joy: 9 of Wands

Firstly, that’s a lot of major arcana, which always makes me nervous.

The best I can interpret, I’m meant to retain my adaptability and resilience, but let go of current work satisfaction. In August, I’ll be feeling trapped, but it’s a prison of my own making.

There’ll be a “rock bottom” moment and a big change. My community, family, and friendships will help, but avoid partnerships. Exercise compassion, rely on ancestral wisdom, and trust in Fate for opportunities to turn it around.

Persistence and resilience will keep me going and growing.

That’s, uh, not an August I’m particularly excited about. I guess yay for being a stubborn survivor with a good support base, but this feels like “hey! More unprecedented times ahead!” and y’all, I’m tired.

As spreads go, it feels a little much for a month ahead. I think I would consolidate and drop a few things, if I were to do this one again.

Also, I had a helper for this spread exploration…