Mystical Market Demand Surges in Bauru

Demand for mystical services in Bauru, São Paulo, increases significantly during the year-end as individuals seek guidance for the new cycle. Specialists Mariana Barros and Meire Oliveira report that demand grows between 30% and 80% during this period. Barros, a tarot reader, views the practice as a tool for self-knowledge and reflection, while Oliveira, an astrologer, defines her work as a language based on calculation rather than belief. Oliveira studied at the Faculty of Astrological Studies in Oxford and explains that astrology involves mathematics, mythology, history, and astronomy. Both experts note that clients approach them with hope and a desire for balance as the year concludes. For 2026, Oliveira predicts a year of action and movement under the influence of Mars and the fire element, advising focus to avoid dispersion and recommending attention to mental health.

Traditional Brazilian New Year's superstitions include wearing white, jumping seven waves, eating lentils, and consuming 12 grapes under the table. These customs are driven by the desire to start a new cycle with renewed energy and a sense of personal balance. This desire has led to a growing interest in the "mystical market," with year readings and tarot sessions offering a glimpse into the approaching period.

In Bauru, SP, tarot reader Mariana Barros and astrologer Meire Oliveira report that demand increases by 30% to 80% compared to other times of the year. Barros confirms the trend of increased demand at the end of the year.

"The end of the year is when people look for it the most, right? Because we have that feeling that a mission is ending and we are going to turn the page for the next year and everything will be different. People come looking with a feeling of hope. So, they are more confident, I love it," Barros said.

Meire Oliveira is an astrologer who completed the Summer Course at the Faculty of Astrological Studies in Oxford. She became interested in the profession nearly 10 years ago after being disappointed with an astral map reading she received. An astral map is a photograph of the sky at the exact moment of birth, interpreted to identify characteristics, behaviors, and ways of relating.

Oliveira explains that the map functions as an "instruction manual" and that astrology is not divination, but rather an ancient language based on calculations involving mathematics, mythology, history, and astronomy.

"It is not necessary to believe in Astrology, because it is not a belief, it is not mysticism, it is a very ancient language. The Astrologer is a translator of that language, we study mathematics, mythology, history, a little astronomy, in addition to all symbolism. It is not divination, it is pure calculation," Oliveira stated.

Currently, astrology is Oliveira's only source of income. She notes that most appointments occur at the end of the year when people seek predictions and guidance for the new cycle.

"There is a very intense demand, I don't even schedule trips for myself in December, I pass Christmas very quickly and go back to work. I usually say that the annual reading is like a trailer, where we understand the tone of the year according to our map," she explained.

Mariana Barros is a tarot reader and alternative therapist who also works in nursing. She reveals that her interest in the cards initially arose from family influence and later became a form of self-knowledge during a difficult period, eventually transforming into a source of income.

Barros maintains tarot reading as a parallel activity, continuing to work in her professional training field of nursing. She views the 78-card deck as a tool for self-knowledge, guidance, and reflection.

"I don't want to make tarot something to explore financially. I like it. An appointment is never just an appointment. It is a mutual help," Barros said. "I sell plenitude, you know? I want people to find themselves in what they are living. It is not a radical change, it is a change of thinking."

To guide the planning of the new cycle, Meire Oliveira detailed the main astrological influences for 2026. The year is characterized by the regency of Mars and the strength of the fire element.

The specific influences include:

• Energy of Action and Movement: Under the regency of Mars, the year will be marked by impulse and initiative. The strong presence of the fire element favors the start of new cycles and the planting of projects.
• Continuity: Although the energy to start is abundant, there is a high risk of dispersion. The recommendation is to prioritize what is essential, avoiding opening fronts of work that will not be completed.
• Changes: In February, an Eclipse in Aquarius will function as a call for the new. The period tends to increase current discomforts to force necessary transformations and revolutions.
• Focus on Balance: Due to the intensity of the year, it will be fundamental to seek relaxation and care for mental health. The goal is to ensure that movements accompany the personal rhythm, and not just external pressures.