Guidance for October - Build the Life You Want

Everyday Witch  Tarot

by Deborah Blake

I'm very excited to be using my new deck, the Everyday Witch Tarot, this month. I had a reading done by Kate over at the Daily Tarot Girl in August. She used this deck and I fell in love with the cards.

I didn't make the purchase immediately. I took the time to ask myself if I really needed another Tarot deck. I considered the idea that it was merely infatuation and not true love. But finally, I decided I felt strong enough about the deck to add it to my collection. When they arrived and I held them in my hands, I knew I'd made the right choice.

As with any new deck, I spent some time shuffling and separating the cards. I handled them enough to move the energy through them and me. I did a few readings to ensure we were connected properly. And then, I asked for guidance for October.

How should we approach it? What can we expect?

Please note: The reading was done on October 1st. I'm late in getting it ready for the blog due to lack of motivation/energy. I had the time, but just couldn't make myself do the work of transcribing my notes and preparing the post. I'm sorry. The first card indicates the mood that left me unmotivated this week. And if you all felt this way, you'll understand the delay. I'm still feeling a little blah, but I know if I wait much longer this posting will have no meaning to anyone, so here we go.

As we enter the month, we may find ourselves feeling wiped out and in need of some rest and recuperation. You may find yourself running at full speed, yet getting nowhere at all. Pause for a moment if you can: regroup, evaluate your goals, ask yourself where you really want to go and decide on steps to take to get there.

As you become focused on what's important it is clear that success and material wealth will be a big thing for you. This may be of your own earning or the successes of the king in your life. Either way, it's important not to lose sight of joy. You can have it all but if it's not fun, what's the point?

Notice the green fields outside the window of the Three of Pentacles, directly relating back to the King, who's enjoying the fruits of his labor. The male figure in the Three of Pentacles could very well be the King, putting in his day of work.

It's important to not waste too much time thinking on what you don't have. You've put in a lot of work to get to where you are and a lot has been achieved. It's time to recognize the work you've put in and to enjoy the fruits of your own labor. But, don't forget to keep on working, for there's more to do.

So, take a few days to rest in October, but don't stay in that mode too long. Take the time to appreciate your achievements and life itself. And then, get back to work.

Happy October!

The Importance of Context in a Tarot Reading

One of the most important elements of a successful tarot reading is context. Setting clear intentions from the beginning, with a tarot question and spread, will help create boundaries for the tarot reading. By looking at the cards within these boundaries, your interpretations will be clearer and provide more useful information.

To demonstrate, I've taken three cards, created three different sets of boundaries and interpreted the readings based on the intention of each.

The first reading is a general reading, which basically reveals general information about a current situation. Although this isn't as direct as a presented question, it can provide a lot of useful information. The spread I've set for this reading is the three card - past, present, and future.

General Reading - Spread: Past, Present, Future

You recently experienced a much needed break. This may have taken the form of meditation, daily napping, or simply pauses throughout the day to rest your brain. There is the possibility this break wasn't your idea at all, a sickness which kept you in bed, a work layoff, or maybe even an imposed vacation. Whatever has pushed you to take this break, you've been able to have the time to rest your thoughts, clear your head.

The results have been a renewal of your hopes and dreams. You stand in a moment when you know anything is possible. You are capable of success, with no limitations. Your positivity factor is at an all-time high.

Opportunity is before you. You are faced with a time to plan for your future. The wands are energized by action. So don't just plan. It is important that you also act on these plans, to take advantage of the opportunity before you.

~~~~~

For the second reading, I pulled a single card to assist in developing a question. 10 of Pentacles - What steps can I make to get the most out of this gift of life? The spread is a progressive style, each card leading to the next.

What steps can I make to get the most out of this gift of life?

Allow yourself time for personal reflections and mental rest. You may find meditation or yoga a helpful tool in making these moments more productive. Tarot and other spiritual tools may also be a part of getting in touch with your true self. The important thing is to allow your mind to rest and approach life with a clear head. (4 of Swords)

Believe in yourself and your ability to manifest your dreams. Hope is an important ingredient. It can carry you through life's challenges and joys. (17 Star)

Set tangible goals and follow through on your plans. Hope alone can keep you strong, but without a vision you won't get very far. Don't waste time waiting for your dreams to come true. Take the steps to acquire them. (3 of Wands)

~~~~~

For the third reading, I pulled another card to assist in developing the question. 5 of Cups - How can I move past the pain and allow myself a new outlook? The spread is similar to the above progressive style, each card revolving into the next.

How can I move past the pain and allow myself a new outlook?

First, you must allow yourself to work through the pain. Emotions are a state of mind, a result of one's experiences. Find a quiet place and assume a comfortable position. Allow the emotions to flow through you. Meditate on its source. Question its meaning, its purpose. (4 of Swords) As you work through the issues, allow a bright white light to fill the holes produced by the lifting pain. (17 Star) When you feel yourself completely filled with light, begin searching for the steps toward your new future. (3 of Wands)

What does it look like? Where do you see yourself going? What can you do to get you there? Are there other's around you? Are they familiar or do strangers welcome you into this new light? After you feel you've exhausted all avenues of approach into this new bright world, take a deep breath and allow yourself to come back into focus with now.

Take a moment to look around. Are the colors brighter? Do you see things you might have missed during your state of gloom? When you feel ready, you might want to drink some water. And as soon as possible, jot down some thoughts of your experience; record any insights you might have had about your future.

~~~~~

I wish you happy journeys in your tarot development. As with any venture, practice, practice, and then a little more practice. 

Seven of Swords - The Thief

It seems obvious what this man is doing within the 7 of Swords Tarot card, but is it really?

The Swords within the Tarot deck are said to represent thoughts, decisions, and mental upset. The numerology of 7, according to Tarot guides, represents self-awareness or spiritual choice.

So, how do these keywords combine to mark this man as a thief?

Perhaps this card reveals more about the victim rather than the man himself. If you've ever been burglarized, stolen from, or deceived, you quickly become aware of how easily you can become a victim, causing mental upset.

Should you be cautious in your business dealings? Keep your plans to yourself?

This, my friend, is why you need to rely on your own intuitions to interpret the Tarot. A picture is worth a thousand words, and put some keywords on top of that, and well, you have a tangled mess, don’t you?

Of course, this is also the attraction of the cards: so many things to see, to create, to imagine, all from a card or two.

Some Word Play:

The 7 of Swords as a character is definitely a thief, there is no doubt on this one, at least not for me. Of course, Robin Hood was a thief, was he not? So, good or bad, is yet to be seen.

~~~

Sneaking and cunning, I plot and plan, setting my goals into actions. I’m smarter than you, you see, for I have the patience to outmaneuver you and eventually win.

~~~

Tip toe, tip toe, I move through the night unseen. You may be missing a bracelet, a watch, or a ring, but you’ll never suspect me.

Affirmations:

I think things through, form a plan, and wait for the right moment to proceed.

~~~

I take one step at a time, adjusting my movements as needed. I will succeed, where others have rushed toward failure.

~~~

I concentrate on a single task and complete it with ease. Only then do I begin another task, staying focused on my work at hand.

Final Words

Watch out for the man standing too close, he may be after your wallet. The internet is also full of creeping thieves, waiting for an opportunity.

~~~

Don’t take on more tasks than you can complete. Put multitasking to the side. Focus on one job at a time. You’ll accomplish it faster and more effectively.

Enjoy your week!

Tarot Blog Hop - Tarot Tradition and where it all began

The Tarot Blog Hop presents the question, ‘What traditions are important to you in how you read Tarot?’ Advised to use the question as the basis for this post, I debated on what direction to take. I decided to go back into the past, back to the very beginning, or at least as far as I could venture.

But first – The Tarot Blog Hop is a chain of blogs where each blogger touches upon the suggested topic. The blog before this stop is at Alison Cross' This Game of Thrones, and the blog stop after is Louise's Priestess Tarot. If you've managed to arrive here without a map, here is the master list of participating bloggers. Enjoy!

The Sola Busca Tarot
a redrawing of the oldest existing Tarot deck,
printed in the late fifteenth century in Italy.

Where and when did it all begin? Myths and theories vary on the subject of the Tarot’s origin. The evidence suggests in the late 14^th century cards similar to what is known as the Tarot appeared in Italy and France.

The early Tarot cards were used in card games. Which leads to the question – Which cards came first – playing cards or the Tarot?

According to Tarot historian Tom Tadfor Little, traditional playing cards date back to 1375, arriving in Europe from the Islamic societies. The first known Tarot deck was created in the 1450, which suggests the Tarot derived from the traditional playing cards.

The first mention of the use of playing cards turning toward divination came in 1487. The first reference of Tarot connecting to such shows up in records from a trial in Venice, in 1589. After this, no references to the Tarot connecting with divination appears until the 18^th century.

These early decks were painted. Mass production didn't begin until the 1500s, with the invention of the Gutenberg press.

Today, we can find Tarot decks everywhere and in many forms. From themed to traditional decks, from fortune telling to self-discovery, over the years the Tarot has made a place in our culture. No longer does one have to hide the desire to explore these images, at least not as one would have had to in the days of witch hunts.

I hope you all enjoyed this short history on the Tarot. Much more detailed information is available on this subject, and in no way does this post even gets close to covering the massive topic.

Enjoy the Blog Hop!

The Tarot Court

The Tarot Court remains one of the hardest segments of the tarot for many readers. The sixteen cards can reflect people, characteristics of self, situations, and in some cases messages. The interpretation of these cards depends upon the reader, the client, and the reading itself.

So, how do you know what a court card signifies within a reading? It is really a case by case situation. But, by getting to know the court, you improve on your chances of getting it right and eliminate most of your confusion. Practice is also a good method of gaining knowledge of the court cards.

Exploring the insights of others can also bring about information to help you to explore and get to know the sixteen mysterious cards of the Tarot Court. Always remember when your intuition is the most important factor, but it never hurts to gain as much insight as possible from outside sources. If something resonates with you, then tuck it away for future references.

This leads me to my current reading material, Understanding the Tarot Court by Mary K.Greer and Tom Little.

The book begins with an introduction, which touches on the tarot court, suggests keeping a tarot journal, and an exercise of selecting your first Significator.

Chapter One - titled The Many Faces of the Tarot Court, explores the different ranks and elements of the court, along with multiple visions due to different creators. Methods of choosing a Significator and when/why to do so are offered. A few exercises are suggested in this first Chapter, but I’d like to share one with you here on the blog.

I found the following exercise insightful to both my choice of Significator and to who I am and where I’m going in my life.

Significator Exercise:

1. Choose your Significator 
2. Shuffle deck, including chosen card. Make sure cards are randomly reversed. (My method of ensuring this is to cut the deck in three stacks and flipping the middle pile to allow for reversals.)
3. Deal off the top of the deck until you find the Significator.
4. Place the two cards before the Significator, the Significator, and the two cards after in a line.
5. The next step gets a little tricky. Determine what direction your court card is facing. If the figure faces left or right, well that’s easy. But if the figure faces forward – upright equals right, reversed equals left.
6. Once this is decided, the first card in the direction of the card’s facing is (the next action), followed by (results of action), the card in the direction the card turns away from is (past action), and the one beside it (past cause).

I would normally share my exercise with you on the blog, but in this case the results were ‘very’ personal, an extreme eye opener to where I am, and who I am.

To be brief: Past experiences (emotional) have created who I am today and to move forward I need to find a way to release the pain which has built up over the years. The results will be a creative explosion, a huge awakening, and a tapping into my higher self.

Have you read Understanding the Tarot Court? Have you found other books helpful in your tarot journey? Have you tried this exercise? Were you impressed by the results? Feel free to comment below or contact me.

Intuitive Tarot - Tossing the Book Aside

As one begins on her tarot journey, she may find herself relying very heavily upon the little white book or other books focused on interpretations of the cards. For many, relying on others’ interpretations becomes almost addictive. You want to know everything you possibly can about the tarot cards. So, you busy yourself reading manuals and others’ interpretations. That’s how you learn right?

I’m not saying studying from others’ experiences isn’t a good practice, but it needs to be separated from the actual tarot reading. I continue to enjoy reading how others read and how they interpret individual cards. But when the two become inseparable, you form a crutch.

There comes a time to get rid of such a crutch and rely upon your own intuition to read the cards. When you do this, you become a more intuitive, reliable reader.

You may be saying: Sometimes I forget what a card means; I have to look it up. What if I interpret the card wrong? What if I guide someone down the wrong path?

It’s important to remember tarot reading is about reading the cards through your intuition, through your imagination, and through your own abilities. There’s no such thing as reading the cards wrong. Yes, you may make a mistake, but this is also possible while relying on others’ interpretations. Your intuition is much more reliable than involving something that has nothing to do with you. The cards react to your energies; therefore it is your interpretations which are important.

Different readers will interpret each card from a different angle. This is okay. The Tarot interacts with you and produces the card needed to answer the question being asked. The books are only guides. They are not manuals to follow, but suggestions to help you get a feel for the basics, the rest is all intuition.  

Exercising your intuition is important to becoming a tarot reader. This can’t be done by looking up meanings in a book. By doing this, you are muddling your abilities.

If you’ve already formed a habit of relying on the book interpretations, here is an exercise to help you break away.

Daily Tarot Pull

·                     Begin your day by pulling one tarot card as an overview or lesson for the day.

·                     Write down your thoughts and impressions, relying only on your intuition.

·                     At the end of the day, record further thoughts on your card.

·                     You may now take a look at the suggested meanings. Compare the similarities and differences between what you saw and what the book suggests. Are there some things in the book you feel reflected your day but you didn’t see? Write it down. Do you notice similarities, underline these in your text.

·                     Repeat daily for at least thirty days

This process will help break your habit of looking up the meanings. It will build your confidence through repetitive reading using your intuition. It will allow you to put the book on the shelf and leave it there.

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Do you have a question about the tarot? Would you like to see something discussed on the blog? Feel free to leave comments below or contact me. I’d be happy to answer any question and cover topics of interest.

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Do you have a question for the tarot? I offer tarot readings by email. Order information is available on the blog page – Tarot Readings by Email. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me.

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Coming soon! Tarot Guidance Website and more ordering options.

2013 - The Tarot Year of The Lovers

Gilded Tarot by Ciro Marchetti

According to the wonderful world of numerology, this year, 2013, is a number 6 year. Reflecting this with the tarot, we enter the year of The Lovers.

What does this mean on the world as a whole?

In my opinion, we'll find many qualities of this card running through the events in the year to come.

What are the qualities of The Lovers?

The first focus of this card is relationships. As you move deeper, it becomes more about the decisions and choices we make with our relationships. In a broad picture, you would find relationships extend much further than your family, your lover, and your neighbors.

If someone's decision affects you, in a way you are in a relationship with that person to some extent.

I feel the government will play a major role in the year to come. There will be much talk, agreements, and disagreements. It will affect us as a whole. But, really, this goes without saying. We are already seeing this from our leaders. The thrashing and bashing, but hopefully the effects of The Lovers will bring them all together for the better good of humanity.

I also feel our connections with a higher source will come to play a major role this year. As we reach for closeness as a unit, the people of this world will become stronger and more compassionate. We are already experiencing a coming together through the spiritual realm. This year will bring more connection as our energies extend and others begin to feel the love from the spiritual world.

This is not to make light of personal relationships. The way you react to your close relations will affect your coming days. Every decision will set you toward a course for the days throughout the year. Be compassionate in your relationships and never forget the other person's story may go much deeper than you are even aware of. Don't judge on face value, learn to love and respect each and every one of the Higher Power's children.

This is a year to take pause and think before reacting. Choose the best decision or direction for you and for the ones you love. May grace follow each of us throughout the year and help us to choose wisely.

Five Mistakes Most Tarot Beginners Make... and How to Avoid Them

Brigit Esselmont

Guest post by Brigit Esselmont of www.biddytarot.com

You tear open the new deck of Tarot cards you've just bought and you grab your favourite Tarot books. Perfect! You’re ready to start learning how to read Tarot!

But as you flip through the pages and work with your Tarot cards, you soon become overwhelmed, confused and doubtful about whether you’ll ever master all 78 Tarot card meanings let alone do a Tarot reading.

If this is you, then you’re probably making at least one of the five mistakes most Tarot beginners make. Find out how these simple mistakes may be unravelling your Tarot studies and what you can do to avoid them. 

Not Trusting Your Intuition 

No doubt it was your intuition that brought you to the Tarot cards in the first place. Perhaps it all started with a Tarot reading you got, or when you walked into the local New Age shop and were attracted to a deck of Tarot cards, or when your best friend gifted you your first set of cards.

Whatever has drawn you to the Tarot has been a product of your intuition guiding you gently along.

But why is it that so many Tarot beginners ditch their intuition in favour of rote learning the Tarot card meanings?

I often get emails from Tarot beginners saying, “My gut feeling was telling me one thing, but that’s completely different to what I read the card is supposed to mean. What meaning do I use?”

The answer is so simple. Trust your intuition.

The books are there to guide you and to offer suggestions as you learn, but it is your intuition that needs to come forth in a Tarot reading.

Give your intuition voice. Allow it to be the guiding light when reading the Tarot cards. Go with your gut more than what the book is telling you.

Rote Learning In-Depth Tarot Card Meanings

Speaking of rote learning... Many Tarot beginners believe that they must have an intricate and in-depth understanding of every individual card in the Tarot deck.

If your goal is to read the Tarot with confidence, then focus on learning about the larger patterns that influence each card. For example, learn about each of the Tarot Suits, numerology, symbolism, elemental associations, the Court Cards and the Majors. By learning about the systems and the patterns that relate to all cards you will find it much easier to develop your own interpretations of each Tarot card using what you already know.

I also recommend focusing on developing keywords and phrases for each card rather than learning their full, in-depth meaning straight away (this will come later). Create a series of Tarot keyword charts so that you can easily refer to the high-level meanings for each card and build your confidence much faster.

Using Complicated Tarot Spreads

Why is it that so many beginner Tarot books include the Celtic Cross Tarot spread? The Celtic Cross is a complex 10-card spread that is wonderful if you are an experienced Tarot reader, but frightening and overwhelming if you’re just starting out.

I typically recommend Tarot beginners start with a 1-, 2- or 3-card Tarot spread. Don’t even worry about having specific positions. Just draw 1, 2 or 3 cards and interpret the story that you see in those cards. You would be amazed at just how in-depth a 1-, 2- or 3-card can be. Here’s proof – a 2-card Tarot reading about a recent celebrity divorce.

Waiting Until You're Good Enough to Start Reading

“Oh, I could never do a reading for a stranger! Definitely not yet. I don’t even know what Tarot spread to use.”

For some reason, Tarot beginners seem to be paralysed by fear of reading for strangers. Many want to wait and wait until the magic day when they are finally a Tarot “expert”. But will that day ever come? Will you ever know EVERYTHING you need to know? I know I can certainly learn a lot more, and that’s with 15 years' experience reading Tarot professionally.

My advice? Start reading for other people as soon as possible. Start with yourself, then read for friends and family. Then, jump online and offer free Tarot readings on websites such as phuture.me and Biddy Tarot where you can provide free Tarot readings via email in exchange for feedback. No-one is going to know that you are sneaking a peek in your little white book every now and then. Plus there is a never-ending demand for Tarot readers who are willing to give free readings. Trust me!

Getting ‘Lost’ in the Vast Amount of Information

When I started to learn to read Tarot, I collected a ridiculous amount of information, through Tarot books, online forums and websites. I had so much information that I was completely overwhelmed and had no idea how to make sense of it all.

Instead of buying up big with every single Tarot book that has ever been published, choose just 1 or 2 books and work with those. You can find my recommendations at http://www.biddytarot.com/tarot-guides/tarot-resources/.

Set yourself Tarot study goals – what are you going to learn and in what timeframe? Then, make sure that everything you learn is aligned to your study goals. You can always file any additional information for later reference.

Tarot Foundations

Love These Tarot Tips?

You’ll find even more in my newest Tarot eBook, “TarotFoundations: 31 Days to Read Tarot with Confidence”. Follow my 31 day program and you’ll be reading the Tarot like a professional in no time. Build a personal connection with the cards and take your Tarot readings to the next level. Find out more at http://www.biddytarot.com/tarot-guides/tarot-foundations/.

About Brigit

Brigit is a professional Tarot reader with over 15 years' experience. She is an author, blogger and mentor. Her website, BiddyTarot, is incredibly popular amongst Tarot enthusiasts with Tarot card meanings, Tarot guides and eBooks, and regular blog posts to help you learn Tarot.

She is also mum to 2 beautiful girls and lives with her family in Melbourne, Australia.

Examiner Articles

Interview with Brigit Esselmont (Author, Blogger, Tarot Reader...)

How to Read Tarot with Confidence Without Studying for Years by Brigit

How often should you get a tarot reading?

Image by Chmouel Boudjnah 
Wikimedia Commons 

An important issue to realize about tarot readings is they are tools for guidance. One should not rely on the cards to direct them in their life every day, or every week for that matter. Once you have a tarot reading done, it is important to let events play out and to work toward your desired outcome.

But, how often should you get a reading?

As a reader, I suggest no more than one in a thirty day period. Of course, there are always exceptions to any rule. Let's look at some scenarios.

General readings show a little of the past, the present, and a look into the future. After such a reading, you could follow up a month later. But, a better option is to wait as events play out. If you wish to alter the predicted outcome, you should work toward the goal you seek. If more guidance is needed, feel free to seek it. The important thing is to know you are in control not the cards.

A number of spreads forecast up to three month, six month and even a year. After such a reading, you could easily wait the forecast time before consulting the cards again. Similar to the above situation, you control the path. So, if you get a reading showing an outcome 5 months from the date of the reading and feel a need to alter this outcome, you may consult again three months later to see if the outlook is better for your situation.

Of course, there are also tarot readings, where you consult about a very specific question. You should not repeat this question over and over again, wait at least thirty days. But, if another area of guidance is needed, feel free to consult the cards with the new question.

The final answer to how often you should get a tarot reading is up to the individual. The main thing is to not to become dependent on their guidance. Your life is under your control, and you should experience it, rather than dictate it's every curve and pot hole. Enjoy yourself, and only use the tarot to guide you toward the brightest star available to you.

Finding a Tarot Reader

Image by Mike Quinn 
Wikimedia Commons 

There is no shortage of tarot readers in today's world. Finding the right one can be a challenging journey.

Today, I'd like to share my journey.

My first experience with having my cards read was with playing cards. As a teenager, I didn't know much about such things, but I had always been curious. The woman, my boyfriend's mother, proved to be very insightful with this deck of playing cards. One reading she gave warned of a situation to come, and to this day I wished I had listened. But, well, I was only a kid.

As the situation played out, I sought more knowledge, but the woman became unavailable because of life changes, on my part. I found a book on reading playing cards and mastered the technique. Still I wouldn't listen to their advice, but learning to read was the most wonderful experience.

Years later, I came in contact with a woman, a friend's mother, who read Tarot Cards. Her readings took on a new level of understanding for me. She guided me and warned me, but in a situation which was beyond my control. The knowledge, however, lessened the blow to come. Unfortunately, this tarot reader passed away. God bless her for the guidance she gave, and I hope she continues to look over me.

My playing cards suffered from an apartment fire. I still have them, but the damage made them unusable. I had the cards dressed up with keywords, which worked as the Tarot images work for a tarot reader. One day, I'll find the time to recreate them.

I went on to buy my first tarot deck and learned to read them - another amazing journey. Although I am able to read my own cards, the experience of another's insight is always added knowledge. The tarot reader can see things you may subconsciously push from sight. So, from time to time, I call out to various sources in search of a compatible reader. Unfortunately, the search continues as of present.

How happy are you with your search for a tarot reader? Have you found the one for you?

Tarot Combinations - 8 of Pentacles and 6 Lovers

Tarot Combinations are useful in both gaining a stronger relationship with the tarot and learning the meanings.

We are using the Deck of Heroes Tarot this week. My review of this deck is available here.

8 of Pentacles / 6 Lovers
Deck of Heroes

These cards are so beautiful, sometimes I want to just look at them rather than do a reading with them. But, we are here to discuss the combination of these two cards, right?

8 of Pentacles - The man in the card is intent on doing a job, and from the looks of it, a repetitious job. I've never really thought much of the produced product in this card, but here you see it is the same item created multiple times.

From the companion book: "The consummate craftsman in difference to the artist... the concentration to repeat a process with unmatched precision."

6 Lovers - The man carries his woman up the stairs sprinkled with rose petals toward... This card usually perceived as the relationship card is really deeper than such. Yes, it normally depicts a romantic scene of sorts, especially in this version. But, it is also about choices and commitment.

From the companion book: "a commitment to the choice."

I see a marriage of sorts within the combination of these two cards. On a romantic relationship tone, most married couples will agree the union is a lot of repetition. On a career note, most people end up feeling married to their job.

What do you see in this tarot combination?

Tarot Combinations - 3 Empress and 2 High Priestess

Tarot Combinations are useful in both gaining a stronger relationship with the tarot and learning the meanings.

Instead of posting a review of the Deck of Heroes Tarot, which is available here, I decided to feature the deck in a Tarot Combination post. Note this deck is high on the romance theme.

3 Empress / 2 High Priestess
Deck of Heroes Tarot

Using Image Combinations - The Empress, served by her servants, enjoys a relaxing moment. The blue waterfall represents her calm state. The green represents a moment of growth and the red flowers show the abundance of her emotions. The High Priestess, embraced by her lover, stands barefooted, absorbing the earth's energies. The view behind her represents her power to absorb these energies. There are battling forces within this combination, yet they also complement one another. Both are of receiving rather than giving. I'm thinking a moment of mediation is represented within this combo, from life and spirit.

• Take a moment to relax and absorb the energies of life and spirit.

Using Meanings: Empress: motherhood, growth, nurturing; High Priestess: unblocked intuition, listening to inner voice.

• Growth through connecting with one's higher self.

Using numerical values: 3 - creation and growth, 2 - Balance and reflections

• Growth and creation brought about through balance and reflections.

What do you see in this tarot combination?

Tarot Combinations - 5 of Swords and 18 The Moon

Tarot Combinations can refer to multiple techniques. In this post, we are focusing on the combination of two cards to reveal one meaning. This method allows a deeper relationship with the Tarot. If you currently use the 'card a day' method, try expanding to the two card method.

There are a number of ways to go about this method. You can combine images, meanings, numerical values, etc.

Always use your own impressions of the cards, not the suggested interpretation of another. The tarot is most reliable when you allow yourself to follow your own instincts to reveal the meanings.

Deck used The Rider Tarot Deck - 5 of Swords / 18 The Moon

Using image combinations - The man, having stolen/won the swords, has his back turned to the moon. In this combination, I'm thinking the moon has the effect of strengthening emotions. The man's facial expression almost mirrors the yellow dog in its anger, although he also carries a type of satisfaction.

• Someone letting emotions rule his actions.

Using meanings: Five of Swords - victory at a cost; The Moon - Self-deceptions, overwhelming emotions

• Victory at the cost of self-deception and allowing emotions to rule.

Using numerical values: 5 - Upsetting the balance, change, conflicts, disappointments; 18 - reduced to 9 - final stage, preparations for transition

• Changes occurring to prepare for a new cycle.

Give this method a try and see how much it can add to your Tarot experience. Feel free to leave a comment on your results. What do you see in this tarot combination?

Trouble connecting?

Are you having trouble connecting during your tarot reading? Do the cards not feel right? Does the reading feel completely off? Do you feel your mind wondering elsewhere while shuffling, rather than on the question at hand?

One of the most important aspects of performing a reading is to have a connection, so what's wrong?

First, you should look at the cards.

• Is it a new deck? You may need more time with them before you feel the right connection. Or, the deck may not be for you. Using the right deck is important, and the choice of decks will vary from one reader to another. Decks are not equal. One reader will find one deck useful, while another may find no connection at all.
• Is it a deck you use often? The cards may need to be cleansed. The quickest way to do this is to move the cards through the smoke of burning incense.

Next, look at yourself. If you are stressed, the energies will corrupt your reading. There are many ways to improve your own energy, which in turn will improve your reading ability.

• Burn incense or candles.
• Use totems. (an object to better connect yourself with the situation of the reading)
• Use crystals. Placing crystals near you will absorb negativity. Different crystals specialize in different areas.
• Meditate. Take a few moments to free your mind and ground yourself.
• Relax. Take a walk. Read from your favorite book. Anything to give your mind a moments break.

Finally, look at your environment.

• Make yourself comfortable. Your work area should suit you, whether it's a chair and desk, a bed, the floor, etc. Most readings take a while, the more comfortable you are, the less distraction.
• Remove the clutter. Is your area large enough for your spread? Having to move items around as you lay your cards out is a huge distraction.

Happy Tarot Reading!

Can you have too many tarot decks?

Can you have too many tarot decks?

I ask myself this question as I order two more decks: Crystal Visions Tarot and Tea Leaf Fortune Cards.

Sounds like a trick question to me. In my defense, the second deck is fortune cards.

Seriously, you can't use them all at once, but you can learn from each deck. Also, you will find special connections with certain cards. You can always gift the ones you decide you don't bond with.

My list of deck grows longer with each year, but my two main decks remain Legacy of the Divine and Mystic Dreamer Tarot. With these two decks, I found an automatic connection. I do however enjoy all of my decks, and have favorite cards in each.

What decks do you own? Do you have a favorite? Do you use them all?

Are Tarot Cards Bad?

Legacy of the Divine Tarot

Does one speak to spirits when using tarot cards? Do tarot cards open one up to bad spirits? Do they attract negative spirits? Does the tarot have anything to do with spirits at all? Are tarot cards bad?

A deck of tarot cards are made of paper and ink, nothing more. There's nothing magical or evil within them. Tarot cards are a tool, not a doorway into the spirit world.

Any evil projected into a deck of tarot cards comes from the handler, not the cards themself.

The card you see is the High Priestess. She represents intuitive awareness, the inner voice, and tapping into a higher power. This is what you use when you do a reading using the tarot cards. This is within each of us, the tarot is simply a tool to help access those abilities, a guide for accessing our journey on the physical plane.

Creating Your Own Tarot Spread

There are many tarot spreads available for the tarot reader, but sometimes you want, possibly need, something more. Creating your own tarot spread is relatively easy and can bring new insight to your tarot journey.

There are some aspects you should consider when creating your own spread:

• Number of cards
• Related issue - general, romance, career, etc.
• Card positions - past, present, etc.
• Possible visual aspect - cross, flower, etc.

As you create your spread, take notes and keep a record of both the new spread and the reading results. Naming your spread is also a nice touch, and a quick way to remember the spread for later use.

Example: Let's say you are in the situation of choosing between two relationships. One is an old friend who has recently expressed feelings of furthering the relationship, while the other is a new person. You're not sure which to choose, or even if you should choose either. To help you make your decision, you've decided to create your own tarot spread.

This is a situation of two roads, so let's go with seven cards in a romance spread. I'm also thinking a horse shoe image.

Positions:

1. Questioner, who I am
2. Person One, who he is
3. Person Two, who he is
4. Person One, what can he offer me
5. Person Two, what can he offer me
6. Person One, possible relationship outlook
7. Person Two, possible relationship outlook

Your layout would look something like this:

6 7
4 5
2 3
1

Possible Names: Relationship Choice Spread, Which Love to Follow, Choices of the Heart

Be creative and don't be afraid to explore beyond what a tarot text can bring you. The tarot is about intuition. Use it to its full potential.

Have a wonderful Thursday!

Connecting with the Tarot Cards and their meanings

Legacy of the Divine

One way to better associate the meanings of the cards is to connect them with your own life.

As you read, you will notice some cards continue to show up. A process you may find useful is keeping a chart of all the cards and marking the ones repeating themselves within your readings. Make note of the card’s position, for the meaning changes slightly because of this aspect.

The main point is to become aware of repeating obstacles or lessons you face. Breaking cycles in life’s path is useful for growing as an individual and one of the hardest lessons for each of us to learn.

I’ve chosen the 10 of Wands as the image for this post because it is a card which continuously reveals itself to me. I tend to overextend myself and then wonder why I can’t get anything done. I’m one of those people who find it hard to say no, but I’m working on this issue. One day, I will break the cycle and the heavy burden will be lifted.

Sometimes, it’s not a card which reappears but a message. As you all know, some cards have very similar meanings, and when looked at the right way will re-create similar messages you received in other readings.

If you use the cards for personal growth, a tarot journal is extremely important. You are only spinning your wheels if you don’t write the readings down and revisit them from time to time. As you grow as a reader, you will tend to experiment with the larger spreads. But, I suggest three card readings as a daily process to discover your path and possible obstacles.

A three card reading can have positions such as: past, present, future – influences, main situation, influences– and so on. Or, they can have no position at all, giving an overview of your current situation. Use whatever you feel most comfortable with, but I’d suggest for this one week to repeat the same spread to get a better view of the cards and their meanings.

Give it a try. Take a week of three card readings, and see if you don’t discover at least one pattern playing out in your daily lives.

Best wishes,
Cher

Numerology within the Tarot - One

There are many different aspects within the cards which can be pulled upon for stronger clarity. One of these aspects is the numbers on each card.

Cards from Legacy of the Divine Tarot

Today, I decided to look upon the One – Aces and The Magician – to gain more understanding of the connections numerology has with the Tarot.

Ones represent the seeds of life, the beginnings and the birth of a new direction.

The Magician uses his available tools and skills to create. This card suggests focusing your energy on your desired direction and taking those first steps toward achievement. It also signifies a good time for new projects and learning new skills.

The Ace of Cups suggests new love, a new emotional life.

The Ace of Coins suggests new money and new opportunities.

The Ace of Swords suggests new strength and new ideas.

The Ace of Wands suggests new life energy, the start of something new – business, creations, and a move forward.

As you look upon these cards, it is apparent all four cards relate to new beginnings in different areas of life.

Overview – (Magician) by taking the tools and skills one possesses and focusing it in one direction, greatness can be achieved. (Cups) new emotions, a new friendship or love affair is likely to begin. (Coins) money and career opportunities are available. (Swords) a charge of power and new ideas are at your disposal. (Wands) new energies bring a good time to begin something new.

Start something new today! Have a wonderful Sunday.

Justice

Legacy of the Divine Tarot

As I look upon the ladies of Justice, I wonder how blind we really are to our decisions.

The ladies stand together sharing the responsibilities of the verdict. One uses the scrolls for guidance, while the other holds a sword. The questions which need to be answered are - what do the scrolls contain - there are two, and what does the sword signify.

Scrolls - We would assume there is writing or images upon these important documents. Maybe the words share knowledge to help clarify the deed being judged, or offer rules of conduct. Another alternative, one two scrolls represent the subconscious and the super-subconscious.

Sword- A sword represents something solid and active. The sword could represent the resulting effects of the deed, or the weight of the conscious. The sword may also be the rules, while the scrolls are the wisdom and understanding.

Either way, these two ladies control the balance on which we make our decisions. With a heavy hand, one lady could cause the outcome to be unjust, unbalanced, or just wrong.

The justice system works upon this notion of fairness when they appoint jury members. As we all know this doesn't always work out to true justice. As humans, we have flaws and justice isn't always found.

In our life and journeys, we also fail at keeping a completely balanced vision upon Justice. Life hands us lessons and trials, and along the way balance is thrown off and one lady outweighs the other.

Over the next few days, consider what tools you use to make your decisions. Are they balanced? Should you touch up on one area to balance out the other?