Tarot, Astrology, and Crystals: How These Holistic Practices Support Mental Wellbeing

Sarah Fielding is a writer specializing in mental health and women's issues.

Mental health experiences vary greatly from person to person, so coping strategies must be personalized. While some methods may seem unconventional, they can be effective for individuals seeking unique ways to manage their wellbeing.

As long as a coping technique causes no harm, it deserves respect. This includes spiritual approaches such as astrology, tarot, crystal healing, and reiki.

Why is taking a walk widely accepted as beneficial for mental health, yet exploring spiritual practices often faces skepticism? If holding a crystal during meditation helps you feel centered, why not embrace it?

Conventional mental health care often emphasizes therapy and medication as primary solutions. While these are invaluable, presenting them as the sole options may overlook the benefits holistic practices can offer to those who find comfort in them.

Many people combine approaches—for instance, starting the day with prescribed medication and then consulting tarot cards, or integrating astrology insights into therapy sessions for deeper self-reflection.

"Wellness" is a buzzword that can sometimes feel overused, but it encompasses a broad range of practices promoting mental health beyond traditional medicine, explains Rabbi Pinchas Taylor, a certified cognitive behavioral therapist and trauma specialist.

He emphasizes a holistic perspective that considers the interconnection of mind, body, and spirit in fostering wellbeing.

Holistic Practices Gaining Wider Acceptance

The astrology industry alone exceeds $2 billion, with apps like Co-Star becoming mainstream. Therapist Lauren Donelson Jones initially kept astrology separate from therapy, but now integrates it with many clients as interest grows.

Insights from Rabbi Pinchas Taylor

"A wide spectrum of wellness practices exist outside formal medicine, all rooted in viewing the person as a whole—mind, body, and spirit interconnected," says Rabbi Taylor.

He notes that many people are inherently spiritual, and with declining organized religious participation, more individuals explore holistic modalities to fulfill that need.

Astrologer and wellness consultant Stephanie Gailing, with over 25 years of experience, observes a notable shift: people now seek deeper astrological knowledge beyond just their sun sign and are curious about applying it in daily life.

"Therapists referring clients to astrology practitioners reflects its growing acceptance and recognition as a complementary tool for healing," she adds.

What This Means for You

While astrology and similar practices lack scientific validation, exploring them to find what brings comfort can positively impact your mental health.

Experiment with Holistic Methods to Discover What Resonates

There is no universal solution. Lauren Donelson Jones recommends starting with practices that naturally attract you and maintaining them consistently to assess their effects.

"Try a daily 10-minute grounding meditation for three months and observe its impact. If beneficial, continue; if not, explore other options," she advises.

Inform your mental health provider about any techniques you’re using so they can support and adjust your care plan accordingly.

Words of Caution from Stephanie Gailing

"Horoscopes can offer valuable insights, but relying solely on them for decisions without personal reflection can undermine your autonomy," warns Gailing.

She encourages clients to critically evaluate astrological guidance and only embrace what aligns with their authentic selves.

Additionally, be mindful of the qualifications of those offering astrological services, as popularity has led some to claim expertise without proper study.

Combining Medical and Holistic Approaches for Optimal Mental Health

Embracing holistic practices doesn’t mean abandoning medical treatments. Integrating various methods can create a balanced path to wellbeing.

"Including multiple perspectives is vital," says Donelson Jones. "Practices like astrology, tarot, and yoga are therapeutic complements but not substitutes for psychotherapy or medication."

Gailing echoes this, viewing holistic tools as aids for self-understanding alongside professional mental health care. She refers clients showing signs of conditions like anxiety or depression to licensed therapists.

Explore these approaches thoughtfully to find a combination that nurtures your mental health journey.

• Living Well
• Self-Improvement

Discover engaging topics and analytical content in Self-Improvement as of 16-04-2023. The article titled " Tarot, Astrology, and Crystals: How These Holistic Practices Support Mental Wellbeing " provides new insights and practical guidance in the Self-Improvement field. Each topic is meticulously analyzed to deliver actionable information to readers.

The topic " Tarot, Astrology, and Crystals: How These Holistic Practices Support Mental Wellbeing " helps you make smarter decisions within the Self-Improvement category. All topics on our website are unique and offer valuable content for our audience.