As we venture into 2025, we’re entering a “9” year in numerology, a time of culmination and transition. The number 9’s vibration signifies the completion of cycles, the integration of hard-earned lessons, and the preparation for a new chapter. Yet, it’s not simply about reaching the end of the story, but understanding the wisdom of our journey before we close the book. The number 9 acts as a bridge, connecting what has been with what is yet to come.
The Hermit tarot card beautifully mirrors the energy of a “9” year, symbolizing introspection, solitude, and the quest for inner truth. The Hermit’s lantern encourages us to be the guiding light in our own lives, as we seek clarity and understanding from within instead of relying on outside validation.
Reflecting back on 2024, many of you may have already felt an inkling of The Hermit’s influence through a sense of disconnection from certain people, places, things or situations. Disillusionment is often part of The Hermit’s experience (and we are seeing this on a macro-level as well), but it ultimately paves the way for eye-opening revelations and a stronger connection to your true self, which can inspire positive change.
Interestingly, in Chinese astrology, 2025 is the year of the Yin Wood Snake, a symbol of renewal, transformation, intelligence, and insight. Snakes have a unique way of undergoing change and growth—before shedding their skin, they go through a phase known as “going blue.” During this time, their eyes are clouded, limiting their vision. To protect themselves, they retreat from the world going into “Hermit mode” until they shed their old skin. Once the process is complete, their eyes are clear, and they emerge fully renewed and ready for what’s ahead.
2025’s vibe carries a similar energy. It’s a year, both collectively and individually, where we shift our priorities and become more intentional about where we invest our time, energy, and resources.
Many of you will choose to invest in yourselves this year—whether through healing, moving, traveling, or furthering your education. These actions are all about creating space and aligning with your higher calling, setting the stage for the limitless potential that 2026 will bring. As a “1” year, represented by The Magician in the tarot, it promises fresh starts, powerful manifestations, and the opportunity to step fully into your creative power.
I am very much looking forward to 2025! This energy is both reflective and profoundly empowering. The “Yin” energy of the Wood Snake aligns nicely with the Nine of Pentacles in the tarot—a card that represents personal achievement, success, self-love, and confidence. Paired with The Hermit, we have an interesting dynamic that mirrors the process of a caterpillar becoming a butterfly.
The Hermit invites us into a period of introspection and solitude, much like the cocoon phase, where we can reflect on the past and integrate its lessons. The Nine of Pentacles represents our emergence from this time of quiet transformation; the butterfly spreading its wings and reveling in the next phase of growth and renewal.
Happy New Year everyone! 
Christine Mann (Fire Moon Alchemy) is a gifted intuitive and certified Reiki practitioner that specializes in tarot, astrology & numerology. She also available for private readings and public & private events. She can be contacted through her website: www.firemoonalchemy.com