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The Fives in the Tarot of Quotes

five of wands tarot of quotes

After a relatively calm and harmonious time as reflected in the fours, the fives in the Tarot are seriously shaking things up.

There is struggle, strife, tension and hardship, a tough situation that requires courage, wit and resilience to cope with.

But despite the unpleasantness of the images and what they stand for, this kind of upheaval is necessary for renewal and growth.

That’s why in numerology, communication, fruitfulness and new learning are attributed to the number 5.

Numbered five in the Major Arcana, the Hierophant perhaps is a good example of what happens, when there is no such movement, and everything stays the same for too long.

Old, outdated structures begin to crumble and turn to ruin, if change doesn’t happen from within.

So, the fives in the Tarot advise us to change, be flexible, alert, and free ourselves from a rigid structure.

Five of Wands – competition, conflict, disagreements, tension

Esoteric Title: The Lord of Strife

Astrological Attribution: Saturn in Leo – releasing suppressed tension, fighting an opposing force, personality clash (ego-driven)

Interpretation: quarrelling, anger, discord, disharmony, chaos, stress, competing with others, feeling threatened, aggression, rebelling

Image symbolism:

Flower – energy source

Bees crawling over each other – everyone for themselves, lack of teamwork, competition, busy, relentless; each carrying their hidden weapon

Red / orange / yellow colours: element fire (Leo) combined with Saturn (earth, which is reflected in the dark grounding colour at the base of the flower and green in the background – potential for new growth), intense energy, in the heat of the moment, hot-tempered

five of cups tarot of quotes

Five of Cups – loss, sadness, grief, mourning, disappointment, depression

Esoteric Title: The Lord of Loss in Pleasure

Astrological Attribution: Mars in Scorpio – hurt feelings, endings and transformation (Scorpio linked to Death), shattered dreams, broken promises; clashing elements fire (Mars) and water (Scorpio) causing emotional havoc)

Interpretation: emotional pain, bereavement, disenchantment, grief caused by someone else, bitterness, resentment, self-pity

Image symbolism:

bridge – need to cross the bridge to move on; acceptance, forgiveness

butterflies – transformation

stars – hope, faith; need to look towards the future with optimism

forest – uncharted territory, uncertain path

trees – protection, nurture (emotional support)

blue / purple /pink colours: element water (Scorpio), feeling the blues, melancholy, need for healing, new light in the distance suggests new beginning

five of swords tarot of quotesFive of Swords – defeat, betrayal, hollow victory, conquest

Esoteric Title: The Lord of Defeat

Astrological Attribution: Venus in Aquarius – peace-loving pacifist Venus weakens inventive, rebellious, forward-thinking Aquarius; mental weakness; relenting; accepting defeat

Interpretation: recognising limitations; (trying to avoid) humiliation, giving up, isolation after victory, notorious; loss of trust, unhealthy ambitions, ruthlessness, lose-lose situation, short-term gains; arrogance

Image symbolism:

War memorial – remembrance of loss and victims

George and the dragon – victory and sacrifice; defeat and submission

Owls – gaining wisdom from adversity; learning lessons from what’s happened to avoid repeating mistakes made

blue / grey / black colours – element air (Aquarius); depressive, sombre mood, unemotional, detached, dull, lone wolf mentality

five of pentacles tarot of quotesFive of Pentacles – hardship, poverty, insecurity, health problems

Esoteric Title: The Lord of Material Trouble

Astrological Attribution: Mercury in Taurus – mental overdrive causing unsteadiness and uncertainty; worries and anxiety mixed with inactivity, difficulties to adapt or adjust

Interpretation: financial loss, down-sizing, loss of property / possessions, homelessness, need to be thrifty, health issues, poor diet; feeling abandoned, trying to make ends meet, out in the cold, hopelessness, waiting for change

Image symbolism:

winter landscape, snow – cold, barren, gloomy

evergreen plant – something can grow and thrive, if you put your mind to it

stars – hope, renewal, asking for help and guidance; focus on building confidence and new aspirations

twilight – lack of clarity, pessimism

I welcome your views and opinions on my cards. Please feel free to leave your comments below.

You can view all images of my Tarot deck created so far in the Gallery. 

The Cosmic Faery Tarot Guidebook  is now available to download, which also includes a printable mini edition of the Cosmic Faery Tarot.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Simple But Powerful Ways To Connect With The Tarot

5 simple yet powerful ways to connect with the tarotNothing is as difficult and frustrating as trying to memorise Tarot card meanings from a book.

Since 2006, Tarot students from all over the world have worked with me to discover a better – easier – method to connect with the cards.

If you are just starting to learn the Tarot or find it hard to remember card meanings, here are my tried and tested powerful ways to connect with the Tarot without ever having to look at a book again:

1. Choose a Tarot deck that speaks to you

The best beginner’s Tarot deck is one, where all cards are fully illustrated, each image tells you a story and you find the artwork appealing.

The most famous and popular Tarot deck of all, the Rider Waite Smith (RWS), is one I do recommend, but you may prefer the Sharman-Caselli deck, which has been specifically designed with the Tarot novice in mind.

tarot decks
Left row: Universal Waite Tarot, middle: Sharman Caselli Tarot, right: Crystal Tarot. Top row: Nine of Cups, middle: Seven of Pentacles, bottom: Eight of Wands

On the image here on the right you can see both decks together with the Crystal Tarot, on which the Minor Arcana cards are illustrated with just the symbol of the suits.

Which images do you find easier to connect with? And what different stories do they tell?

2. Describe the images

Yes, this requires you to actually LOOK at the image carefully and explore the scene. Give me your first impression: is it positive, neutral or negative?

Then tell me why. What do you see? What is happening?

Go into more detail. Are there any people in the card? What are they doing? How do they look?

Notice their body language. What is the landscape like? Can you see buildings, plants, animals?

Some cards are easier to read than others. Don’t be disheartened, if you draw a blank with some of them. You will learn to read them in time. Build your confidence by focusing on the easy cards first.

3. Be the person in the card

This is a fun yet insightful way to connect with the cards. Imitate the posture of the person in a card.

Stand with open arms just like the Fool, sit like the High Priestess, kneel like the woman in the Star image – will you take it as far as being naked? 🙂

You can personify the Hanged Man by doing a headstand, perhaps against a tree, or if that is too strenuous for you, lie down and lean your legs upright against a wall or a tree.

Replicate as much of the image as you can.

For example, stand by a field and look at the crops just like in the Seven of Pentacles. What goes through your mind? Harvest? Hard work? Reaping rewards? Sowing new seeds and a new cycle?

How do these postures make you feel?

Close your eyes and imagine the landscape of the card surrounding you. How does it affect your mood, dreams, ideas or imagination?

4. Connect each card with your own life experiences

The archetypal images of the Tarot live in all of us. For example, we have all been a Fool more than once in our lives, but that doesn’t necessarily mean in a bad way 🙂

the fool tarot of quotesThe Fool suggests amongst other things new beginnings. This is how some of my students associate the Fool with events in their lives:

“My first day at school. I can remember being so excited.”

“When I went backpacking to South America. I was naive when I started but so much wiser when I came back.”

“My first marriage. We were too young.”

“Starting my business. I didn’t have a clue, just jumped in, and it was quite a learning curve. But I loved it.”

All these statements are short, but they tell you so much more.

By linking the cards to your life, you will find it much easier to remember their meanings, because you connect them to feelings, lessons and advice you have experienced.

5. Start A Journal

When you start exploring your Tarot deck, make notes of your observations and new discoveries about the cards. Writing things down helps your memory, too.

Be a Fool today and start your Tarot Journal by downloading my Tarot freebies.

You can add your own pages as you continue to work with the cards, and over time you will create a unique Tarot reference book full of your personal wisdom and inspiration.

By signing up to my mailing list, you will also receive more freebies in the future and learn about exciting new journalling products available soon!

6. Play with the cards every day

Even if it’s only for five or ten minutes, spending time with your cards every day will help you learn the cards more quickly.

Pull a card on an evening and make a note of it. How does it reflect the events of the day you’ve had? Or what message does it offer you for the following day?

Even if you cannot think of anything, at least you are looking at the card, begin to memorise its image and associate it with its name. Soon you can picture the images in your head without having to look at them, e.g. you will know by heart what the Six of Wands looks like.

7. Card meanings can be found in the Name

The names of the Major Arcana images all trigger some associations you have stored in your head. Quite often, Tarot novices are not aware of them. They see the name written on the card but don’t take it further.

One of my students couldn’t make sense of the Hermit. So I asked: “What is a Hermit? What does a Hermit do?”

Her answer: “It’s someone, who lives on his own. Far away from civilisation.”

We have then talked about the archetypal Hermit personality, and how it fits into our modern lives and in readings.

So, what does an Emperor do? Well, I suppose he rules and makes decisions. And what does Justice mean? It makes me think about the law, and how we associate it with objectivity, truth and fairness.

As you can see, the names of the cards already tell you a lot about their meanings, so they are worthwhile exploring further.

8. Music and Quotes

Link individual cards with songs that relate to their meanings, e.g. Don’t fear the Reaper goes well with Death, or I’m not in Love reminds me of the Five of Cups.

Find your own favourite inspirational quotes for each card and record them in your journal. I started doing that a few years ago, and in the process began creating my Tarot of Quotes.

Last but not least, if you still feel stuck connecting with the cards, consider booking a brainstorming session with me via Skype. It’s great to talk, and you will already notice the benefits after just one call.

Or check out my transformational Discovery Tarot course to start your tarot journey.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

 

Autumn Equinox – Embracing The Dark Season

autumn equinox oracle cardA friend of mine told me recently that she found the transition from summer to autumn hard.

The falling leaves make her feel depressed, and she was dreading the unavoidable approach of the long cold winter months ahead.

To a certain degree I understand her sentiment, but once you consciously decide to tune in and embrace the light and dark of all the seasons, you discover the magick and beauty of each one of them.

Just like the trees shed their leaves in the autumn, so can we shed old stuff that is holding us back.

The shedding of leaves is preparation for new life and growth in spring, and we can do the same in order to pave the way for new experiences and growth.

Today is Virgo’s (the Hermit) last day in the sun until Libra (Justice) takes over tomorrow.

Over the last four weeks, the energy of the Hermit has encouraged us to go inwards, reflect and explore what new skills to learn, new knowledge we can acquire and how we can turn it into wisdom that will serve us and others well in time to come.

The New Moon in Libra tomorrow invokes the energies of Justice, encouraging us to create and appreciate harmony in life, especially in relationships, including friendships that need building and nurturing.

So there is much we can do, and the approaching darkness will help us focus on what we need to do including planning and implementing.

Perhaps today at the time of the Autumn Equinox, or over the coming weeks until Samhain, you may want to consult the Tarot to explore some of the following questions to help you gain focus and direction:

1.What is holding me back right now that I need to let go of?

At this time of year with the energies of Libra/Justice, explore your options rather than making a decision. It’s about weighing up the pros and cons, so you can make your final decision by Samhain (31 October).

2. What new skills do I need to learn to help me reach my goals?

Depending on the card/s you draw, these could relate to

  • leadership and creativity (fire, wands),
  • emotions and relationships (water, cups),
  • mental challenges and conflict resolving (air, swords), or
  • hands-on practical skills and money management (earth, pentacles)

3. What can I do to strengthen my relationships with people that are important to me?

Remember that important people in your life are not restricted to your partner or close family, but also extended family, friends, co-workers, professional networks… Explore how you can build bridges, overcome conflict, encourage solidarity and teamwork, bring people closer together etc.

And here are a few other practical ideas to get you started:

  • make a to-do list
  • declutter your bookshelf to make room for new knowledge
  • network with people and see what you can do for them
  • when it comes to friendships, it’s not about quantity but quality. Only two genuine friends are worth more than a large bunch of acquaintances, who don’t care about you.
  • get your finances in order
  • avoid drama and the people creating it
  • enrol on a course

Wishing you a Happy Equinox and a magickal autumn season ahead.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

The Autumn Divination Kit

 

Going Pro: Do You Need Tarot Qualifications?

tarot certificationThere have been many discussions about “certification” in the tarot community.

Some readers feel that an official looking tarot qualification in form of a pretty certificate reflects their knowledge and skills and makes them look more professional.

Other readers don’t see it necessary to pay a lot of money for a “qualification” that no client is particularly interested in.

Here are my thoughts on this:

1. A certificate doesn’t tell anyone how good you are as a reader.

2. But it can be a great confidence booster giving you a sense of achievement.

3. You may have gained a lot of theoretical knowledge by having completed an expensive long-term tarot course, but applying it is a different matter.

4. It’s practical experience that will help you grow and develop as a reader.

5. Reading the Tarot for clients isn’t just about Tarot; you also need people skills.

Consider getting a qualification in counselling or coaching rather than trying to obtain an official looking tarot certificate. There are lots of online courses on offer for interactive learning.

6. Some knowledge in psychology is also useful. Get an overview either by reading books, such as Understand Psychology, and again learn more by enrolling on courses, if this topic intrigues you.



7. It isn’t necessary to have a tarot qualification as the industry isn’t regulated in this way.

8. Instead, join a tarot organisation that offers training and professional development including guidelines on tarot ethics. This is also the place, where you can meet and network with fellow tarot enthusiasts for help and advice. Check out TABI.

9. When choosing a certified tarot course, make sure that content is focused on practice rather than an overload of theory and elaborate jargon.

10. It’s not an official tarot certificate that endorses you; it’s how you engage with people and also related work, interests and knowledge that add to your qualification as a reader.

Perhaps you have worked in a medical / helping profession or teaching capacity. You may have extensive knowledge on crystals, herbs, reiki, healing, angels and/or astrology, which you can combine with Tarot, adding to the value of your readings.

11. Ongoing training and study is also a vital part of your qualification, but an official certificate isn’t always necessary. Consider participating in self-study groups or work with a mentor on a 1-2-1 basis, both of which will contribute to your true skills as a reader.

12. A certificate (or even a diploma!) doesn’t mean you can handle calls on a psychic phone line. Any theory won’t save you from having to learn the hard way. Instead, practice, practice, practice.

13. Still wanting to frame a pretty tarot certificate? No need to spend a fortune; TABI offers courses and endorsement in return for a small annual membership fee (£10).

Other relevant organisations include the American Tarot Association and the Australian Tarot Guild.

14. While official tarot qualifications may indicate a certain level of knowledge, they are no guarantee to draw in clients, if you want to make a living as a Tarot Reader.

Don’t be tempted to choose a tarot course only because it offers certification. Contents and quality of its delivery is more important.

Last but not least, before you rush out to become a “qualified” tarot reader, remind yourself what first drew you to the Tarot. Was it

  • the mystery, magic and wonder?
  • the forbidden with that connection to witchcraft and the occult?
  • the unknown and exploration of the unexplained?

How can you possibly package all that up into a sanitised tarot “certificate”? What next? Tarot readings that comply with Din ISO 9001 quality control? Will the title “Grandmaster of Tarot” not create unrealistic expectations?

What do clients, who come for readings, really want? That you can present a certificate, or perhaps they would prefer to think you have some kind of psychic gift?

What are your thoughts on tarot qualifications? I’d love to hear from you!

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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The Chariot in the Tarot of Quotes

chariot tarot of quotes

The Chariot is our global year card for 2014.

This year it’s all about moving forward into uncharted territory, leaving your comfort zone behind.

The emphasis during 2014 is on growth and self-development, so be prepared to make some decisions that can be seen as risky or perhaps uncomfortable.

It’s never easy letting go of what you know in favour of the unknown and pursuit of distant dreams and goals.

But this year you simply have to get off your favourite armchair and get out into the fresh air of possibilities and opportunities.

Whether it’s a business idea you want to turn into reality, sort out your love life, move home, improve your fitness or change any other lifestyle issues – make 2014 your year of progress and positive change.

The Chariot in the Tarot suggests forward movement, momentum, travelling, action, change, conquest, control, determination, overcoming challenges and victory.

Victory and achievement are within your grasp, but the Chariot is also a reminder that it won’t be easy, and you may well encounter struggle and tension along the way.

But it is exactly the hard parts of your journey this year that will help you grow and live the life you want to live.

You may need to learn to balance opposing forces, just like the coachman has to lead two horses into the same direction. This year it’s your time to lead.

You may need to develop resilience, self-discipline and determination to succeed. This year it’s your time not to give up but persevere.

You may need to learn to assert yourself and take control of situations or aspects in your life, which need resolving.

Astrologically, the Chariot is linked to the zodiac sign Cancer and the element water. There is a strong link to emotions, so you may have to learn to control negative emotions such as anger, jealousy or other aggressive impulses.

What to avoid: fear of change, apathy, impatience, recklessness

If you’d like to learn more about the Chariot and all the other cards in the Tarot, please check out my ebook The Cosmic Faery Tarot Guidebook.

I welcome your views and opinions on my cards. Please feel free to leave your comments below or just click the ‘like’ button.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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The Druidcraft Tarot Review

druidcraft tarot
The Druidcraft Tarot © Will Worthington 2004

The Druidcraft Tarot deck was first published in 2004, and since then it has become one of the most popular decks in recent times.

What makes this deck so irresistible is the beautiful artwork by Will Worthington, and as a bonus it comes with an excellent companion book by Philip and Stephanie Carr-Gomm.

The theme of the deck is based on nature and the Wicca and Druidry traditions, so it is ideal for anyone wishing to explore these paths on a deeper level with the Tarot.

This is a fully illustrated deck with a Viking feel and filled with symbolism. I love all the animals on the cards.

The cards are a bit oversized for my liking – 140 x 90 mm. As you can see on the image above, they have a white border, which can easily be trimmed, and many tarot readers have done this.

I have seen cropped versions of this deck, which just look stunning, so if you intend to use it regularly, I’d recommend getting rid of the white border.

The 192-page comprehensive companion book includes information on Tarot history, Druid mythology, the seasonal cycles, card descriptions (including reversed meanings) as well as spreads and sample readings.

Although I cannot fault the artwork of the Druidcraft Tarot, I have to admit that the full frontal nudity on some of the images (the Hanged Man and the Star) really bothers me.

I’m not prude, but I don’t think that genitals are a pretty sight, especially in a tarot deck. They remind me of those bad, unnecessary sex scenes in movies, when less would definitely be more.

And the Lovers card is a little risqué, too, which sadly makes it unsuitable for children.

For that reason, the Druidcraft Tarot doesn’t quite make it on my list of all-time favourites, but if you don’t mind the nudity and like the theme and artwork, then don’t be put off by my opinion.

The Druidcraft Tarot Deck & Book Set

Text © Philip and Stephanie Carr-Gomm 2004
Illustrations © Will Worthington 2004

Connections Publishing 2004

Buy it from the Book Depository (free worldwide delivery)

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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Strength in the Tarot of Quotes

strength tarot of quotes

The lion on the image is guarding the entrance to a pub in a little village close to Hadrian’s Wall.

His posture is composed, dignified, serious and dutiful.

In typical Leo fashion (Strength is linked to the zodiac sign Leo), his presence is making quite an impact in that position.

He’s the first “thing” you notice when you approach the pub.

The lion symbolises the essence of Strength; despite his powerful physical strength, his self-discipline and control is taming the wild beast (desires) within. This lion isn’t pouncing at you any time soon!

The flowers in the tub next to the lion symbolise feminine energies as a balancing influence:

  • assertiveness (rather than aggression)
  • gentle persuasion (rather than oppressive dogma)
  • patience (rather than agitation)
  • compassion (rather than cruelty)

In a reading, Strength can indicate the need to control impulses and desires – not by force but with conviction and determination.

It can also advise to draw upon your inner calm and persistence in difficult situations, facing fears and adversity with the courage and confidence to overcome them.

Other keywords: stamina, endurance, perseverance, kindness despite tension or conflict (with yourself and others), self-mastery, willpower

Negative meanings include: weakness, self-doubt, low self-esteem, over-emotional, lack of self-discipline

Astrologically, Leo is ruled by the Sun, which symbolises the Self and the Ego.

Therefore, Strength may also ask you to explore how you can practice more self-care or, on the other hand, how you can become less selfish or self-absorbed.

If you’d like to learn more about Strength and all the other cards in the Tarot, please check out my ebook The Cosmic Faery Tarot Guidebook.

I welcome your views and opinions on my cards. Please feel free to leave your comments below or just click the ‘like’ button.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane