20. Hot cross buns

good health, protection from evil, cycles of life

This is not a warning, but a caution for what lingers.

Hot cross buns may now be a common Easter tradition but have their roots in celebration of the goddess Eostre, for which Easter is named. The four sections created by the cross represent both the four moon cycles and the four seasons, with the cross in the center representing rebirth after a long winter. Hot cross buns are also associated with good health and protection from illness. They store especially well, so a batch would always be kept to hang in the kitchen for protection and given to those who fell ill. Many believed the cross on top of the buns had holy powers and used them as a cure-all to treat most diseases.

This card has appeared to urge you to make your health and spiritual protection a bigger priority. Supporting yourself by clearing and cleansing and establishing a protection ritual can go a long way towards managing stress and overwhelm. This card may also symbolize a need to be more mindful about some external influences currently surrounding you. Something or someone is directing energy towards you that may be causing you to experience emotions or thoughts that are not actually your own, or influencing you in negative ways that you are not yet aware of.

Likewise, if you have asked about a person then receiving this card is a sign to take caution in your interactions with them moving forward. If you have asked about whether or not you should move forward with an idea or opportunity then consider taking additional time before making a choice, if possible waiting at least a week before coming to a decision.

Spiritual protection is important, as you can carry energies and emotions that do not belong to you. The longer you hold them the more powerful they become.

Bring a pot of water to a boil and add 1 cup of coconut water, 2 bay leaves, 1 tbs of sea salt, 1 tbs of dried basil, half a pomegranate (including the seeds) or 1 sliced red apple and 1 handful of curry or banana leaves. Boil for 5 minutes then lower the heat and cover. Simmer for a further 2 minutes, then strain the mixture and add it to your bath. Create an atmosphere in the bathroom: light candles and incense, and dim the lights if possible. Set your intentions, such as: "Sacred water spirit, please cleanse me of all that does not belong to me and is not serving me. Send back all ill intents to the sender." Take your time.