This way of seeing the world is extraordinarily useful. It allows us to measure, classify, build technology, organise cities and design complex systems. It is the foundation upon which many of the structures that make modern life possible are built.
But it also has a hidden cost: it reduces reality to what can be weighed, counted or verified immediately.

This view is deeply linked to materialist thinking, which could be summed up in a rather popular axiom: ‘If I don’t see it, I don’t believe it’. Or, in its more sophisticated version: ‘If there is no empirical evidence, I do not accept it as real’.

And this is where everyday experience reveals something curious.

How many times, on a Bumble date, when I mention that I’m a witch, is the immediate response: “I’m more of a scientific sort”?

The interesting thing is that, in many cases, those very same people admit that what you’re telling them seems fascinating. It intrigues them. It raises questions.
But straight away they slot it into a convenient category: “it’s not rational”, “it’s not scientific”. And therein lies a small paradox.

Science, in its most rigorous essence, does not consist of dismissing something simply because it does not fit within the current framework. Nor does it consist of accepting any claim without evidence.

Science operates in a realm that is both more demanding and more humble: that of methodical doubt.

It does not say “this is impossible” lightly. Rather, it says: “We do not have sufficient evidence to affirm it”.
Now, here a delicate point arises. The evidence that science considers most solid is usually that which is observable, measurable and replicable. This does not mean that it denies the existence of subjective experiences, but rather that it has difficulty integrating them as proof of external facts.

On many occasions, the only evidence accepted within the scientific sphere is literal and material. Much evidence arising from the subjectivity of testimonies is dismissed or reduced to clinical or psychological explanations. Even though, if studied quantitatively and comparatively, it is likely that common patterns could be identified, which would help to better understand some of the mysteries that science is unable to explain within the current materialist framework.

Because there are human experiences—subjective, symbolic, difficult to measure—that do not fit easily into a laboratory experiment, yet do not disappear simply because they are ignored. They have always occurred, and will continue to occur. They shape humanity from the shadows of the unconscious, from birth to death.
Not only do they give meaning to many social structures (such as the days of the week), but they also act as a driving force behind behaviour. Human beings need material objects, but, beyond basic needs, on countless occasions, what drives them to move forward, to generate wealth or to take risks is not the object itself, but the symbolic meaning attributed to it.
The reward may seem material, but it often operates on another level: status, identity, purpose, belonging.

This is an example of how humans operate through different modes of thought, more or less consciously. The philosopher Ernst Cassirer argued that humans do not live solely in a material reality, but in an intermediate layer of symbolism through which we imbue everything with meaning.
A clear example of this is money. Literally, it is a piece of paper (or a number in a bank account). In itself, if an animal were to find it, it would hardly distinguish it from toilet paper. However, humans attribute a value to it that goes beyond the material. This value is a construct: it is real for human beings because it shapes behaviour, decisions and social structures, but it does not exist as such in nature, independent of that interpretation. Even so, this symbolic value has very real effects in the world.

The existence of symbolic vision can be traced back to the dawn of humanity. Archaeological evidence has been found of the use of signs, and other artefacts that are directly symbolic systems or constructs whose conception and use were linked to symbolism.

The symbolic dimension is part of the human experience; it is part of everyday life… although often, due to the prevailing materialist view, it is relegated to the background or to the unconscious realm.
As a person embarks on a path of self-knowledge, these symbolic elements can come to the fore. Like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle that the individual must put together. At this point, it is worth clarifying the difference between a sign and a symbol.

“The sign is always less than the concept it represents, whilst a symbol always represents something more than its obvious and immediate meaning.”
Carl Gustav Jung, Man and His Symbols

A sign is the graphic or physical representation of a concept to which it refers. Its function is to point to or substitute for something directly.

A symbol, on the other hand, goes further: the forms in which it manifests are diverse, and its meaning is not exhausted by a single interpretation. It may vary according to culture or individual experience, but it usually points to a broader content, which is not fully defined by a single reading.

The spiritual dimension usually operates through symbolic language, so that anyone wishing to approach it must, to some extent, learn to ‘speak’ that language. Symbolic vision is, in itself, the ability to perceive, feel and interpret what surrounds us on the material plane, translating it into that language in our minds.
For example, viewed in materialistic terms, a tree is a living organism belonging to the plant kingdom. It captures CO₂, sustains the soil, absorbs water and minerals, and carries out photosynthesis. It can provide wood and fruit.
In its symbolic dimension, the tree is a bridge between heaven and earth. It refers to our own energy system (the tree of life), and can represent growth, knowledge, stability and also the different stages of life.
Whilst the materialistic view answers the question descriptively: ‘What is the tree?’, the symbolic view interprets what the tree is, its significance on an energetic, mental and even poetic level.

Art is based, to a large extent, on this perspective. The artistic interpretations of multi-million-pound works are made through the symbolic perspective. Through abstract forms, or through details with meanings beyond the obvious. Once again, like a puzzle reserved for the expert eye, for those who know what to look for to interpret art.
The quintessential canvas of symbolic vision is the world of dreams. When we sleep, our subconscious takes control of the mind, showing us a variety of stories. Whether implausible or realistic, the narrative may seem literal, but the significance lies in the meaning that emerges when we interpret it. It is in this interpretation that symbolic vision is actively exercised.
One of the best ways for any human being to train their symbolic vision is to attach importance to their dreams. Something I have experienced dozens of times is how, when I start writing down my dreams upon waking, I end up remembering more of them. In the days that follow, I will recall longer dreams with greater detail.

Not only that, but if I am lucky enough to have interested people around me, sharing dreams and trying to interpret them together is a very interesting exercise. This aids the development of symbolic vision, as it is practised from various angles. Bringing the symbolic narrative of dreams into the conscious realm gives it importance, and like almost everything in life, when we focus on something, it is amplified. Whether recorded in writing or audio, this helps us to structure what we have experienced, to begin interpreting it, seeking meanings that are often not immediately apparent. When we compare our narrative with the opinion of another—someone who will also draw on their symbolic vision—we find a perfect mirror. They will help us evaluate our interpretation through the reaction our mind has to their ideas, as well as delving deeper into the meaning through the perspective of this external person, with their own personal history and the symbols within the dream you are sharing with them. These interactions are enriching for both parties and a perfect way to consciously and powerfully hone this tool.

As a practitioner of magic, symbolic vision is essential, for it is also the language of magic. Without signs or symbols, magic would not exist as such.

A magical and powerful experience.

This exciting new event format is an exclusive creation of PsycheNautics.

It is an invitation to disconnect from our human mind and invite our instinctive side, that part of us that does not speak, but feels and reacts.

Each encounter is a journey: part ceremony, part competition, part awakening.

Animal trance is a living ritual, an experience to free ourselves from the constraints of human life through dance that will help us transform, channel a specific animal spirit, and become one with it.
The goal is to create a powerful vortex of energy among everyone, enjoying the process and activating parts of our psyche that do not usually come to the surface. It is a deeply transformative event that forces you to leave your ego behind and embrace your transient animal identity.

On the day of the event, when everyone arrives, we will begin by explaining the general rules of the event. This is a very important part, because without these rules the format would be distorted, the trance would not be complete and, more importantly, a powerful energy vortex would not be created, which is the main magical goal.

Next, the animal spirits that are part of the ritual will be introduced. The symbolism of the animals will be discussed briefly and concisely, including their characteristics and anything else the ritual leader considers relevant to help participants connect with the animals symbolically.

Once the rules are clear, it’s time for action. It’s time for the animals to choose who will dance with them using the various masks made for the event. No one chooses their animal; it is completely random.
Once each participant has their mask, the music will start playing and all the animals will wake up, moving their bodies and dancing. There is no right way to dance; the goal is to express yourself, channel the spirit of your animal in the best way possible… and, if possible, win the competition.

Animal Trance® is a protected artistic format, created and directed by Susana Aznar Álvarez.
Each official event follows a carefully designed structure that respects the ritual, symbolism, and collective experience.
Only certified facilitators are authorised to organise official Animal Trance® events, ensuring that each one retains the same spirit and authenticity.
If you would like to collaborate, bring Animal Trance® to your city, or experience it as a participant, you can contact us through the chat on this website or any of the following social networks.

© 2025 PsycheNautics

“Animal Trance®” and all its related concepts, symbols, and formats are the intellectual property of Susana Aznar Álvarez.
The reproduction or public representation of the Animal Trance® format without written authorisation is strictly prohibited.
Animal Trance® is a registered trademark (or pending) in the United Kingdom.

Symbology of the Ansuz Rune

Ansuz is associated with the Norse God Odin, its spelling indicates someone older, or a teacher, with open arms outstretched and bowing. Odin is associated with knowledge, communication, and understanding.

It is also associated with meetings, creativity and inspiration, especially in the field of speech, of oral exchange.

Meaning of the Ansuz Rune

Ansuz speaks of connecting with other people, and the knowledge that comes from sharing and communicating with others. It speaks of the ability to write and speak to others. Wisdom passed on, the creativity of thought, word and inspiration, received and given. It tells us also, that there is synchronicity when we are connected with all, so we receive opportunities and messages that make us discover some truth.

Ansuz as an amulet or focus in meditation

• Inspiration
• Mysteries are revealed through knowing how to distinguish truth from lies.
• Magnetic speech.
• Creative wisdom, inspiration, ecstasy.
• Divine communication.
• Gaining wisdom.
• Reception-Transformation.
• Revealing messages.
• News, gifts.

Advice from Ansuz:

Words are forces of healing and abundance that generate possibilities. Use them with awareness and even if they pass for a reason, let them be spoken from the heart and without deception. Dare to transmit your needs, desires and thoughts through words, but Ansuz asks you to think before you speak. Meditate on words, for they are powerful. It is important, when Ansuz appears, to be open to signals, messages, and keywords that may be spoken to you. Even a timely warning can be a gift. Words make way, for actions, to new beginnings and relationships. Be open to receiving me through them, and practice active listening, they can give you opportunities or clues in doing so.

Thurisaz is an intense rune, it speaks of painful and difficult situations.

It tells us that there is work to be done, much needed, within ourselves. It also indicates paths that will open or close and the struggle between good and evil. It invites you to ask yourself: why it is necessary to make a change?

Symbology of the Rune Thurisaz:

Its symbol shows us Thor’s hammer, Mjöllnir, a destructive force. But remember, from destruction, there is room to create life. It also suggests the spike of a stalk, like of the rose. For it symbolises pain and inner struggle, but the beauty that can be born from it.

Meaning of the Rune Thurisaz:

There is work, especially inner work, that needs to be done. We have reached a point where discomfort and distress cannot be avoided. It requires observation of our difficulties, in order to begin a process of change. It also tells us that drastic but effective circumstances can be given to start that change and that new direction. Thurisaz also breaks down barriers and helps to fertilise the ground in order to sow something new. The thorn in his graph helps us to wake up and to go through the harsh reality, so that, through this pain and realism, we can defend ourselves and act. Just like the thorn, defends the rose.

Thurisaz as an amulet or meditation focus serves us:

• New beginnings.
• Luck, and strength in times of need.
• Protection and defence.
• Awakening to be able to act.
• Fighting our enemies.
• Directing our polarities to achieve clarity.
• Regeneration.

Thurisaz advice

There is work to be done, both inside and outside yourself. Finding yourself in these painful situations is a sign that you are ready to start to change, and to be more active and aware in your process so that we can give light to guide us and give us strength during difficult and painful moments. It invites action, but one in which it is necessary to first sit in meditation and question what is hidden in ourselves.
 It asks us to be patient, and not to want to rush through without looking at the difficulties.

Breathe and face what is to come, in order to make way for whole changes.

It is the dual aspect of the magician, he makes and projects; the priestess integrates, she knows what is there, as her energy is connected to the matrix of reality. She flows in that ancestral and mystical knowledge, she embodies it. Her energy expands and assimilates.

That is why she is number 2.

The priestess is always halfway between the whole and her being. She stands at the threshold where her consciousness becomes unconscious, as the guardian or authority of the passage into our subconscious. She herself is part of the current that moves the world and connects us to all beings, be they of this or other dimensions; that is why she knows because she experiences it with her perception.
If we look at the images of the papesse in the cards, we will discover a common symbolism. The figure is usually framed by two columns (in some Tarot cards they may be trees or something similar in shape to a column) that refer to the side of light and the side of darkness, a symbol that all initiates will know when they begin in the mysteries. Precisely this they indicate, that she is in the middle, again reiterating her neutral position, but totally involved.

Water often appears, this element is related to intuition and to the flow of energies. She will position herself upon these waters, as her energy is divine over the material world. In fact, this can also be symbolised by the colour blue. The colour red can appear symbolising the fire of her spirit. These colours refer to the character’s character; she is a spiritual person, and her spirit or light burns brightly, however, she is governed by strict and spiritual rules, so she may appear cold to deal with. White, the colour of purity and virginity, will also appear. Green or vegetable references, fruits (like the pomegranate) appear to symbolise its generative aspect, its connection to the womb and integral part of creation; together with gold both symbolise eternal life, wealth, empathy and growth. The waning moon also symbolises the mysteries, it is directly related to our subconscious, inviting us to navigate it along with the priestess.
It symbolises initiation, so in a spread it can mean that we are initiating a study or enterprise that will change us, making us grow as people and expand our knowledge to limits that are still unknown. In addition, it also speaks of stability and courage to the next, its mission is to help and heal the spirit. If you ask a fertile woman it can mean an upcoming pregnancy.
She always holds a book but does not look at it because she knows it. In some decks of cards you can find, half hidden, the fourth leg of the magician’s table.

If you use face-down cards in your spreads: It refers to ignorance of wisdom or advice. With hidden plans, usually malicious, the quality of unconditional surrender is dissipated, and there is some confusion in the situation or lies. Swindle. Difficulty in getting pregnant. Refers to a person who is self-absorbed with their spiritual ego, who isolates themselves and has ulterior earthly motives directing them. This can translate into bad advice, useless or unhelpful teachings, submissive with frustration, and passive-aggressive. Possessive and emotionally manipulative person. Harmful magical arts.

Creative visualisation

I use the Arthurian Tarot deck, in this version it is called “The Lady of the Lake”. I arrive at the lake, it is grey, there doesn’t seem to be much life in this scene full of fog and mystery. I dive into the lake and at the bottom there is a light, passing through it I am transported to the shore of the lake. Behind me stands, tall and imposing, the Lady of the Lake, and we strike up a conversation. She tells me that she is the consciousness that survives between worlds, that force that links the mind with the interdimensional spirit. I go back to the lake and I see a sword at the bottom (Excalibur) I try to pull it out but I can’t, I open my eyes again and I’m back on the shore. She is there, blue waves of water are flowing towards her, full of power. I ask her name and she tells me names of goddesses, ending by saying that she is “The one who conquered her fire, in spirit, and travels without fear of getting lost. We continue talking and she reminds me that the sword is within me and I see it.

Arcanum number 1, the first of the so-called 22 trumps of the Tarot.

The number one refers to the self, the being. The experience of thinking, and using our intellect. It also relates to the planet Mercury, as it is the first planet opposite the Sun. It is an androgynous figure, its polarity is neither masculine nor feminine; the first to receive direct light from the star. The magician is a knowledgeable figure who is ready to start something. Whether it is manifesting or mapping out a plan of action, he knows how to achieve what he sets out to do.
He will not always do it in a way that is morally accepted by some majority… but the magician materialises his desires. He is privy to secrets and occult power, he has studied it… and he has the head, the ability to understand how things work. How to manipulate reality. He knows the laws of the Universe and knows how to transform energy, using his personal magic, when the occasion benefits him or requires it.
He is symbolised with the four suits of the deck of cards to his credit; on a table of traditionally three legs, the fourth is his, disguisedly.

Ready to be combined in front of him, the elements symbolise the elemental aspects of energy that makeup reality. Air, Fire, Water, Earth.

The context matters when interpreting, but it usually indicates personal success, an intelligent person who knows how to sell himself and be charming in order to achieve what he sets out to do.
It can also symbolize that an enterprise that you are going to start is totally within your reach, that you are ready. That the person receives fruits for their personal and/or professional efforts.
If you use face-down cards in your spreads: A manipulative person with not very good intentions, without morals. Preoccupied and off-centre in worldly matters. Uses his intelligence to get what he wants, although this has a somewhat turbulent selfish purpose. May also refer to a failure of the plan, an imbalance between the elements, or a delay due to an extraneous cause.

Creative visualisation to connect with the card

In this meditation, I again crossed the threshold of the letter. Through a forest enchanted by Arthurian legends, I encountered a magic feather and an ogre. Escaping I reach the magician, Merlin, in the deck. After some personal questions, he tells me of a destroyed tower; the same as the one in arcane 16, the Tower, the place where he dwelt until it was no longer useful to him. His home now: a modest little thatched cottage. There is an owl who serves us tea, and he guided me through the whole visualisation. Merlin told me that in each element there is the fire itself, a sword/weapon. I see my fire, between pink and red; he shows me that there are many types of fires. He shows me my spear, which is quite impressive. When interacting with the water everything becomes a blur. I touch the stone, feeling it very clearly in my touch and I suddenly come out of my exercise.

The Arcanum of the Fool is numbered 0. This is because of what it means. Everything in the card refers to the symbolism of freedom and beginnings.

But why the 0?

 0 stands in the middle of duality, it represents the nothingness from which everything emerges. This ties in with the energy shown in the card. Every great journey has a beginning, that energy that initiates is powerful, but also in a way, unconscious.

The Fool has launched himself into a new way of living, in which his outlook is positive and innocent. He does not know; he feels and moves, he is a nomad who has broken with his structured life and has decided to start a spiritual/transformative journey. His soul guides him along the paths, his instinct is his fuel.

He often appears at the edge of the precipice, referring again to nothingness, to the abyss of unconsciousness that must be overcome to begin the path of self-knowledge and self-improvement. By abyss of unconsciousness, I mean embracing trust in the Universe, in mystery. A small animal usually appears at your feet, preventing you from falling into the void; this is the unexpected help from the Universe, the reward for trusting in something greater.

Ultimately, the Fool began to walk by an instinctive feeling and since then his days are always sunny.

To interpret this in a spread it must be put in context. It usually means that something new is beginning. The “new” part is the most important part, whatever it is you are starting is unknown, but you start with the right attitude: open and courageous if a little reckless.

If you use face-down cards in your spreads, in this case, it would mean a start as well. However, upside-down, what it symbolises is a start without confidence, a reaction and an attitude that has not left the previous world behind; visually, the world is falling on you. It can refer to an unhappy wanderer, someone who walks without direction or illusion; a start-up without spark, without foundation.

Creative visualisation connecting with the card:

I entered the arcane of the Fool using the Arthurian Tarot. I was surprised at how quickly I connected with the archetype, and how easy it was to visualise. I found myself with the Fool, who was strolling happily. The landscape was multicoloured, in HD, vibrating… but only the landscape in front of his eyes. When I looked at the landscape that the character had already walked through, everything was grey. There was no life, it looked like a barren place. As if the colours depended on where the Madman looked at.

Symbology of the Rune Uruz:

Its name comes from the Uro, an extinct animal similar to the bison, but more vigorous and larger in size. In the ancient Norse tradition, in order to make the step from boy to man, adolescents had to hunt an Uro as a symbol of virility. Thus men would have the qualities of strength, courage and honour.

Meaning of the Rune Uruz:

Uruz is the Rune of changes, drastic, it gives excitement or intensity to the slower processes. Giving us the vitality and strength to fight the adversities that may come our way. Uruz indicates new beginnings, a complete change of lifestyle or attitude towards life. It tells us that what has lived in us, must die to make room for a new rebirth or beginning.

Thoughts, attitudes, philosophies, actions? must change in order to manifest new and positive results.

It tells us that sometimes, in order to renew ourselves, we have to take a step into the darkness, and courageously face our fears and the obstacles in front of us.
It gives us strength, determination and confidence to move forward into a brighter future after stepping through the darkness. It augurs that behind your possibly dubious circumstances,
there will be a good resolution. It asks us to be open and to stop resisting and fearing change so that we can move through this process with greater speed.

Uruz as amulet or object of focus in meditation:

• To generate new circumstances in our lives.
• To start new things, through willpower.
• To have the strength and good physical health, as well as to heal from injuries.
• Through perseverance and willpower, we will not know the channel of inspiration and creativity.
• It generates fortunate events, even when the process seems doubtful.
• Causality.
• A better understanding of ourselves.

Uruz’s advice

Calm the mind and spirit at times of perceived loss and difficulty, perhaps you are losing something or someone important. But it is precisely that loss that will give you the strength and courage to take back your life and transform it into a new vision. He advises us to try to discern and see our purpose with clarity in order to generate the determination to achieve it in spite of the difficulties that may appear. 

The universe will synchronise with you, so you must trust.

It also speaks of having, or soon, receiving abundance, both materially and spiritually; or what we need to be able to overcome and continue to move forward.
It also emphasises the sharing of that accumulated or received abundance.

Symbology of the Rune Fehu

The symbolism represents the horns of a cow, given its relationship with the possession of cattle as it was a symbol of wealth and abundance in the past. Also, its symbol represents
a man with feet asking the gods for abundance or giving gratitude for possessing it. Fehu is linked to the goddess Freyja, the mother, it is the archetypal raw energy of movement and expansion; the force that flows and expansive, the source.

Meaning of the Fehu rune

Fehu is a positive rune, it materialises the most basic power of generation. It speaks of having, or receiving, abundance both material and emotional. In a rune reading, it can mean new beginnings, or the end of a stage thanks to the effort and work done, which will give way to something new. Is the rune of the cycle of destruction and creation, thus linking the strenuous and hard processes with resurgence and rewards. It also speaks of receiving some kind of material good or money, unexpectedly, or thanks to the sustained effort and good ethics. It may indicate that these goods have already come to you or that they are on their way and you are going to receive them. It can also refer to emotional abundance; when we finally feel we have the support or feel what we require, to believe in our fortune. 

Fehu as an amulet or object of focus in a meditation serve us for:

• To speed up the process of change or of receiving the fruits of our efforts.
• To increase the economy.
• To protect things of value.
• To strengthen a psyche.
• To emit abundance in our environment or other people.
• Personal and social development.

Fehu advice:

Material wealth or wealth of opportunity should be a product of honesty and good ethics. We must remain open to evolving and learning so that we can be a positive and generative influence in our environment and on others. To function by the law of Karma, to sow positive actions in order to receive in time what we deserve. It invites you to meditate on the meaning of profit and opportunity. It leads us to
to ask ourselves if what we need to feel good, are material possessions or a safe and rewarding environment.

Just as the word magic has many meanings between the lines, we will not enter into that debate today, so everyone will give it the meaning they feel is true for them.

The word Rune means secret or mystery and symbolises the noise of one stone colliding with another.

According to Viking mythology, the Runes were tools given to the God Odin so that he could see the future and communicate with his people to pass on messages and advice. Although records date back 2200 years, it is said that they may be as old as 6000 years. There are various studies and conjectures of where, when and how, so many experts accept a truth created with the various beliefs. Although the Runes, we know them generally thanks to the Vikings, they were also used in their best-known form or other variants by various cultures such as the Celts, the Greeks, the Germanic peoples and the British Isles.

The set of all the Runes is called Futhark, the name given by the first 7 symbols of the Runic Alphabet 

F-U-T-T-H-A-R-K.

The most widespread and well-known Futhark is composed of 24 symbols + 1 later addition called the White Rune. The set of the first 24 Runes is divided into three families or groups under the name of 3 Viking gods and elements of nature and the seasons.

From their beginnings, one of the uses of runes has been as an oracle, and today it is the most popular use of them.

To get the most out of them, it is very important that the reader of the Runes is in a calm, relaxed, balanced mood and is focused on connecting with them.

Runes are characterised by their great energetic power, so in order to interpret them, it is necessary to channel and organise the energy that the interpreter and the person consulted need around their questions, goals and dreams.

Therefore, the emotional state of the interpreter and the person consulted, and their internal energy will have a primordial role in the result of the consultation and will be key elements to keep in mind.

 The result of the reading is based on the present moment and the emotions and decisions that you have.

The result of the reading is based on the present moment and the emotions and decisions you have at that moment, so it is not an unbreakable future, but an indicator, or guide, of what you need to improve or understand in a situation, based on how you are emotionally and spiritually at that moment.

Runes give you room for evolution and change, being consulted to decide amongst one of the paths of your possible destinies.