Reading Tarot Cards Blog

The Reading Tarot Cards blog is my mini-journal that covers everything you need to know to become a better Tarot reader! It...

--lets you know whenever new content is added to or updated, giving you essential meanings, spreads and other Tarot info quickly.

--gives you a sneak peek of what I'm studying and learning on my Tarot path

--provides you with all the news and views needed to excel as a Tarot reader

Jul 22, 2008, Tarot Card Reading Instructions: Interpreting

Tarot Card Reading Instructions: Interpreting

Jul 22, 2008, Tarot Card Reading Instructions - Pick a Spread

Tarot Card Reading Instructions - Pick a Tarot Spread to get started

Jul 22, 2008, Tarot Spreads: Creating Your Own Custom Tarot Spreads

Tarot Spreads - Moving Beyond the Common Spreads to Create Your Own

Jul 22, 2008, Tarot Card Reading Instructions - Pick A Deck

Tarot card reading instructions show you how to pick a Tarot card deck for an amazing readings!

Jul 22, 2008, Tarot Card Reading Instructions - Sacred Space

Tarot card reading instructions help you set the stage for illuminating Tarot readings

Jul 11, 2008, Tarot Deck: Universal Rider-Waite

A tarot deck for Tarot readers all all levels, the Universal Rider-Waite is an update on a classic deck.

Jul 11, 2008, Tarot Deck: Morgan-Greer

The Morgan-Greer Tarot deck features simple keywords and a classic style of illustration

Jul 11, 2008, Tarot Deck: Marseille

This Tarot deck is perfect

Jul 11, 2008, Tarot Deck: Light and Shadow

A Tarot deck featuring detailed woodcuts, the Light and Shadow is moody and monochromatic

Jul 11, 2008, Read Tarot Deck News and Reviews - then choose a Tarot deck for you!

Use these Tarot Deck resouces to find new and old decks to connect with!

Jul 9, 2008, Temperance....sweet torture

OK, maybe I'm being a little melodramatic. Yet when I think of Temperance, I instantly think of balance. And for me, Queen of Roller Coasters and loving a thrill, balance is a real challenge.

Temperance is the balance between all elements in life; even the figure, androgynous in its gown, strikes that balance between male and female.

Balance is one of those things that seems so easy to attain - until you try to achieve it. It is a constant effort, assessing where you are and where you need to be.

Temperance is a marker of the skill required to achieve balance but also of the harmony that comes with that balance. So while Temperance can seem like an annoyance, it is also the sign of what can be achieved.

Jul 4, 2008, Daily Practice

Whether you're new to Tarot cards or a seasoned pro, it can be a challenge sometimes to use the cards as part of a daily practice.

There are times when I want to use a favorite Tarot deck but don't really want a reading. If I want to practice, what other options are there?

On those days, I use the Tarot deck for direction. Without any question in mind, I start shuffling and ask the deck (and the universe in general) what I should be focusing on.

With this practice, I usually keep my draw to a single card, unless another jumps out of the deck. And then the challenge begins.

The focal point of this Tarot advice has been my career, love life, friends, family or path; and yes, the Tarot deck (or my subconscious) usually will connect with the most pressing issue.

This type of exercise can be challenging because there is no question to focus the interpretation. Sometimes what will come through is surprising, and most often, the direction the cards suggest is quite obvious.

That being said, like with any interaction with Tarot cards, remember that what comes through is a suggestion rather than a finite course of action.

Try this alternative to a reading to further your study of Tarot cards and yourself!

Blessings,

Lucy

Jul 3, 2008, How Do Tarot Cards Work? Is it the symbols, intuition or something else?

How DO Tarot Cards work? Anyone who has had an accurate reading wants to know the secrets behind the cards!

Jul 3, 2008, How Do Tarot Cards Work? Synchronicity!

How do tarot cards work? Synchronicity! A system of explaining co-incidences with the presence of a greater power, synchronicity can explain Tarot's accuracy and rich details.

Jul 3, 2008, How Do Tarot Cards Work? Symbolism!

How do Tarot cards work? Symbolism! In addition to having wondferuflly detailed meetings, Tarot cards are based on rich forms of symbolism with roots in psychology.

Jul 3, 2008, How Do Tarot Cards Work? Psychic Skills!

How do tarot cards work? Psychic Skills! Created with detailed meanings and rich symbols, Tarot cards can help you to tap into and strengthen your psychic abilities.

Jul 3, 2008, How Do Tarot Cards Work? Intuition!

How do tarot cards work? Intuition! Created with detailed meanings and rich symbols, Tarot cards can help you to tap into your intuition and discover the unknown.

Jul 3, 2008, Tarot for Beginners: Where to Start When You're Starting Out

Tarot For Beginners answers the common questions those new to Tarot cards have.

Jul 3, 2008, Tarot For Beginners - Reading For Yourself to Teach Yourself

Tarot For Beginners - Reading for yourself is an essential part of leaning how to interpret Tarot

Jul 3, 2008, Tarot For Beginners - Reading For Others To Learn For Yourself

Tarot For Beginners - Reading for others helps to learn Tarot as well as learning about people.

Jul 3, 2008, Tarot For Beginners - Small Details for New Readers

Tarot For Beginners - Here are some small details to consider when you're new to Tarot!

Jul 3, 2008, The Swords - Complete Meanings for this Minor Arcana Suit

The Swords is the Tarot suit that influences thought, ideas and power. Here are the definitions for all the Swords cards, upright and reversed, along with keywords!

Jul 3, 2008, The Cups - Complete Meanings for this Minor Arcana Suit

The Cups or Chalices is the Tarot suit connected to th heart and soul of every issue. Here are the definitions for all Cups cards, upright and reversed, along with keywords!

Jun 11, 2008, Beyond the Spread: When are you ready to create your own Tarot layouts?

I think that working with some good and consistent Tarot spreads are crucial to becoming a strong Tarot reader. When you know the positions of a Tarot spread well, you can focus more energy on interpreting the cards and less wondering about the placement.

After you've been reading Tarot cards for some time, Tarot spreads can start to feel limiting, especially when reading for others. When I first started doing longer readings, I used the 6 Month Special or other layouts. They worked well - at first.

I received enough information but not so much that I was overwhelmed. As I continued to read, I wanted more. More detail, more information, more value for my clients. I started by modifying known spreads, adding cards as needed.

I hit a point where I wanted to start creating my own spreads, not just for the information but also to challenge myself.

As a Tarot card reader, only you will know when you need or want to create your own Tarot layouts. Some Tarot readers never stray from what they learn with and still give excellent readings.

I'll also say that my clients were still very happy with my readings. Making my own Tarot spreads was more of a personal development issue. Like with everything else in life, there is no single "right way" of doing things.

I advise Tarot card readers to wait until they're pretty comfortable with the definitions of the cards first. Try different spreads to see what styles appeal to you then use that information to create a simple Tarot spread.

I recommend when you're first designing a Tarot layout, keep a piece of paper and pencil handy if you want to use it a second time. The positions and their meanings may seem simple now but if you don't use it regularly, you may soon forget.

If you want to embrace your inner free spirit (not so inner for some of use), work at creating a different spread every time. Instead of knowing what the placement will mean ahead of time, intuit its meaning when you turn the Tarot cards.

*WARNING*: this style of reading is recommended only for those that are flexible, in touch with their intuition and have a strong connection to the Tarot cards. Tarot readers who don't fall into this category will just find it frustrating and no fun at all.

Working with Tarot spreads, whether creating your own or using an existing spread, will always take some time and practice. On the other hand, switching around your Tarot spreads is a great way to bring new enthusiasm to a Tarot card reading as well as test your skill!

Blessings,

Lucy

Jun 11, 2008, What Goes Up...

Drawing The Wheel of Fortune in a Tarot card spread can seem like a gift from the gods. After all, it brings with it the promise of change and success ahead. Or does it?

The Wheel of Fortune is an interesting Tarot card because of its duality. On the one hand, when The Wheel rolls in your favour, nothing can stop you. Yet when The Wheel starts to turn, life can become a little more challenging,

The Wheel of Fortune always suggests we grab opportunity when it presents itself but remember to keep rolling when Fate isn't. Once we connect to the rhythm of life, the ebbs and flows, balance doesn't seem so elusive.

I make a point of appreciating and having gratititude for these high points and not begrudging the hardships. Like life itself, it's just temporary.

So if you feel like the Ferris Wheel of Life has you riding at the top, enjoy it to the fullest and don't worry about what comes next.

Blessings,

Lucy

Jun 9, 2008, Making Tarot Cards - A Creative Way To Learn the Tarot

Making Tarot cards is an excellent way to have a unique Tarot deck that matches your personality

Jun 9, 2008, One of the Tarot spreads that gives a little more, Seven Stars is it!

Tarot spreads guide the cards. Use the Seven Stars Tarot layout for a solid overview of any issue!

Jun 9, 2008, Tarot Spreads: The Four Card Tarot Spread is Perfect for Yes/No Questions!

One of the Tarot Spreads that is perfect for simple yes/no questions, the four card Tarot spread is quick and easy!

Jun 7, 2008, Tarot Box: A Special Place to Store Tarot Cards

A Tarot box can be a great way to store much-loved Tarot decks. Here's how to make one!

Jun 5, 2008, What About The Moon?

Like The Devil, Death and The Tower, The Moon is one of those Tarot cards that has a bad rap. Moody and illusive, the Moon is often seen as sinister with a vague feeling of foreboding.

With its connection to the feminine divine, The Moon has more to do with emotions, psychic abilities and creativity than anything dark.

Like the High Priestess, The Moon hearkens back to a time of equality and respect for the feminine. Women, at different points historically, have been active parts of spiritual and intuitive cultures. Some of the best known psychics and oracles as well as leaders in ancient churches and orders were women.

I can see why The Moon may seem scary. At its most basic point, it is a card of watery emotions, intuition and creative impulses. All of these elements are hard to control and summon, and may seem laced with mystery. Also, while these impulses can lead to new projects, ideas or even lifestyle, there is too much of a good thing.

Living in the reversed pattern of The Moon would be a life of nothing definite, swimming from one watery influence to another. To balance the elusive element of The Moon, you need action to counter the reaction. The Moon can also caution us about letting our emotions rule us or getting lost in illusion.

Illusion isn't a bad thing. It can inspire as much as it deceives. It's like the Temperance card says-it's all in having good balance.

Embrace The Moon and connect to a hidden part of yourself.

Jun 5, 2008, How To Honor Your Intuition

Intuition is an ability that is available to everyone. I find the biggest challenge is realizing the difference between thoughts and intuition. It takes time. That's a point I can't stress enough.

If you expect to have an instantaneous connection to your intuition and know 100% of the time when you're intuiting information, you may be disappointed. Some people do have intuitive awakenings where they start receiving accurate information and understand it right away. For most of us, intuition will evolve over a period of time.

Patience is key. If you allow yourself to develop intuitively over time, it will feel more comfortable and allow you the chance to become used to receiving intuitive information.

How do you know when it is intuition? It's a unique experience for everyone. Even though I've been actively developing my intuition for years, there are some times where I'm uncertain of the source for information.

Often, when it is important or I haven't relayed it correctly, the information will repeat until I've done what I need to with it. I've learned that if my intuition is sending me a message visually, the more vivid and definitive, the more likely it is to be an important intuitive message.

If you have decided to actively connect to your intuition, do your best to honor the information you receive. If you're not certain what to do, that's the perfect time to close your eyes, lean back, and listen to what your intuition recommends.

As you'll read, intuition is a necessary part of how Tarot cards work. Start to listen carefully and you'll hear your intuition making itself known.

Jun 3, 2008, Tarot News!

For those who have already signed up, the latest In The Cards FREE ezine is almost ready to hit the (digital) presses. The newest volume will be delivered in the next 48 hours. If you're interesting in receiving a copy, click the link above to take you to a page with the signup box.

Blessings,

Lucy

May 28, 2008, When's The Time To Start Reading For Others?

A common question for new Tarot card readers is when they should start reading for other people.

Read on to find out when I think the best time is....

Happy Reading!

Lucy

May 26, 2008, Clairvoyant Psychic Reading Tarot Cards - Lucy Barnett

Clairvoyant Psychic Reading Tarot Cards. Learn more about the person behind www.Discover-the-Meaning-of-Tarot.com

May 23, 2008, Tarot Resources in the Works

Up and coming additions to the site will include:

• New Tarot Spreads
• Tarot art projects
• Deck reviews
• Printable Tarot deck
• Step by step instructions on making your own Tarot box
There will also be oodles of images decorating the site in coming weeks -for those visual Tarot learners out there.

If there's anything you'd like to see on the site, tell me at via the contact form here...Luscious Blessings!

Lucy

Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

May 14, 2008, Beacon of Hope

The 17th card of the Major Arcana, The Star is the symbol of hope and renewal. After the trials and tribulations of the Tower, Death and the Devil, the Star is a beacon. We have all faced periods where we have faced not only our fears, but our reality, pushing ourselves to the very edge.

Afterwards, it can seem like an effort to believe that life can fulfill our hopes as well as force us to redefine them. Weak and drained, we’re not certain who we are or want we really want. Yet that is what the Star asks of us, to dream as big as we can. As soon as a dream is acknowledged, it's the first step in a new journey.

The Star, with its watery motif has long been connected to the astrological sign of Aquarius. Just like the Star, Aquarians tend to be ruled by their sense of wonder and optimism. Whether you're an Aquarius or not, study the Star to inspire you to change your life.

Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

May 13, 2008, Being Psychic

I’ve had a lot of questions concerning my background and what it is like to be a psychic. Here’s a short overview of what my psychic life has been so far.

Being psychic is still seen as a bit of an oddity. Not quite a circus freak but because the sixth sense is not seen as common, those that are open with it are a bit unusual. So color me unusual!

I've come to realize and accept that being psychic is as much a natural function for me as breathing, sleeping or speaking. I've been through periods where I ignored impressions or internalized messages. I've also spent time being frightened or resentful of my gifts. Like with anything else, there is a learning curve to being psychic.

I've always been sensitive to emotions and people and from the time I was very young, I seemed to just 'know' things. For many years, I kept these thoughts to myself - it didn't make sense to me how I could be aware of things that were hidden. As I grew older, I felt that I had no control over psychic impressions and really wondered about the value of being psychic.

Then once I left my teens behind me, it became easier and easier to receive impressions and control what I wanted to know. I used to feel like if I opened my psychic senses at all, it was an onslaught of ideas, knowledge and emotions. Many details, many feelings and a lot of things not making any sense overwhelming me like a tidal wave.

It wasn't until I reached my early 20's that I really felt I had a strong yet calm connection to the psychic world. Information could come or not, depending on what I wanted. I think of this point as almost a renaissance for me, where being psychic felt comfortable and easy at the same time. I could give the information people needed as well as much needed hope.

I’ve spent the last 10 or so years acting as a reader and channel for whomever needs it. I’ve read for people of all ages and backgrounds and had the chance to teach many people to become comfortable and embrace their psychic abilities. I am a conscious channel, which means that information can come whenever I want it to and will usually come very quickly.

I believe that everyone needs to remember that their life is their own. We all have our choices and our destiny is what we make of it. From the time we are born to the time we die, the decisions we make shapes the life we have.

As you develop as a Tarot card reader, intuitive or psychic, it's important to give the people you read your best. While sometimes you may wonder what to tell people, be guided by a sense of humility mixed with compassion and like the Golden Rule says, treat others as you would like to be treated.

Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

May 11, 2008, Making The Connection - Finding A Tarot Deck You LOVE

If you're new or old to Tarot cards, take a moment to look at the deck you use most often. How does it make you feel? Do you love the style and colours or is it a deck that was given to you (and reflects someone else's taste more than yours)?

Your Tarot deck needs to be evocative, making you feel comfortable and inspired at the same time. It's amazing the difference in a reading you can get with a deck that you feel a connection to.

I love woodcuts and I found a Tarot deck that is based on medieval style woodcuts called the Light and Shadow Tarot deck. Every time I use the deck, I am reinspired by the symbols I see and the ways they are presented.

Other people I've shown the deck to were not nearly as interested. Like anything connected to art or design, it is a very individual choice.

If you're not certain how to classify your taste, look at the colours that appear in your home or clothing - do they make you feel happy and energetic? Look at the periods in time that you find most exciting? What authors or artists do you like?

Being as there are now a massive variety of Tarot decks based on any theme possible, you're not lacking for choice.

Finding a deck that you love is the first step to having the passion you need to really explore the Tarot and give amazing readings.

So if you don't feel inspired, start searching.

Irreverant Blessings,

Lucy

Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

May 11, 2008, Announcing It's In The Cards: Reading Tarot E-zine

Brand spanking new on many of the site pages (including this one): sign up box for the new e-zine!

If you're serious about Tarot - or want to be- this is for you. The email addy you provide will be used only for the zine. We NEVER sell or give away your info (even under the pain of death).

Be part of a cool community and learn to read Tarot your way!

Irreverent blessings!

Lucy

Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

May 2, 2008, 5 Ways to Increase Your ESP

With the dawn of the Age of the Aquarius in the 1960's, the idea of developing psychic abilities hit a new stride. While interest in intuitive processes has grown and decreased at different periods over the last 40 years, there is a still a large amount of focus on psychic self-development. If you and your psychic impressions are strangers, how do you get to know each other?

What's That?:Intuitive impulses will present themselves differently to everyone. The first step to utilizing your psychic powers rests in paying attention to them. Intuition can often appear in ways that are easy to ignore. Logic may seem to be absent and it can feel risky even stating what you feel. Even if you don't share your psychic impressions with others, document them in writing for your own posterity.

Practice: Spend a little time every day trying to connect with your psychic side. Find a space that feels comfortable to you, whether it's your bedroom or a local park. Think of dreams that you've had or hesitation you've felt in certain situations. Spend time with a deck of card, trying to "see" what suit or number is on the card before you draw the card. Just like your sense of taste changes when you pay attention to what you eat, focusing on your psychic impressions will heighten them.

Training Wheels: Many items like crystals, Tarot cards, tea leaves, pendulums and scrying bowls can be used to help develop psychic ability. Find a tool that appeals to you and use it with the intention of building upon your psychic talents.

Work With Your Strengths: Psychic abilities, like with every other skill in life, can vary from person to person. Just like some people see better than others, others are more clairvoyant than others. In terms of psychic powers, there are different areas of skill: clairvoyance (seeing the future), clairaudience (hearing the future), clairsentience (feeling what others feel) are the main ones.

It's important to determine where you are most comfortable so that you can work your strengths to your advantage. If you're a natural clairsentient but only look for clairvoyant impressions, you will be missing out and may even convince yourself you're not psychic. Having skill in one area doesn't mean that you can't or won't develop in others so work with what you have.

Find a Friend: Working with a like-minded psychic buddy can give you more options in terms of practice and support. With a partner, you can try distance experiments in clairvoyance as well as mind reading. The paranormal also happens to be a misunderstood subject; having a friend to discuss experiences and concerns can ease tension and increase comfort levels.

The biggest asset in developing psychic abilities is have the desire to be psychic. Self-belief goes a long way to recognizing and increasing psychic potential. Once you've tapped into your psychic abilities, your life will slowly transform for the better. So get out there and get sensing!

Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

Apr 22, 2008, Living La Vida Loca - Learning The Message of The Fool

The Major Arcana card the Fool is the beginning of the Tarot deck as well as the start to every journey. The jester pictured on this card is oblivious to every hazard around him; indeed the naivety of the Fool can be a warning to look before you leap more than anything else. At the same time, the Fool can be a symbol of faith and the miracles that it can create. The Fool is in the process of stepping off the edge of cliff, unafraid or unaware of the consequences. This leap of faith is an option for everyone who feels like they've settled into a rut.

Often, we delay making necessary changes, waiting for security to arrive before we take a risk. The paradox is that sometimes we need to have faith that our leaps of chance will work in order for real change to occur. Sometimes, like the Fool, it is important to believe that the universe will support you when take that step.

I had been stuck in a series of jobs that left me empty and unsatisfied. I tried to find something else, applying for job after job but resumes and interviews led to nothing concrete. Still, I was reluctant to leave what I had without the assurance of something else.

It wasn't until the last year or so of uninspired work for a soulless company where stress eroded my health that I finally reached a breaking point. So without a job or even a solid plan, I quit. Like the Fool, I took that leap, with only my beliefs to support me.

I emailed my resignation at 10:00 in the morning. At 1:00 in the afternoon, someone I had interviewed with the previous month called me. Something had come up early that morning and they needed someone immediately. I was unemployed for less than 24 hours before I was gifted an amazing opportunity. Not only was this job substantially better paying than my old one, it was in an industry that I loved working for someone who respected and appreciated me.

I just needed to believe. Not only in the power of faith but also in myself. Like the Fool, my self-assurance led me to take a leap that transformed my life.

Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

Apr 14, 2008, Archetypes in the Tarot - Perserverance of the Page

When trying to understand the meaning of each Tarot cards, it's a good idea to know the history of some of the symbols used. The court cards in the Minor Arcana of the Tarot have a long and notable presence in history and as archetypes. The Page in particular is interesting because of his connection to a noble class as well as a working class.


The page, in principle, was a young man attached to a noble house in service. If he did his tasks with speed and a good attitude, there was good chance he would be trained as a knight eventually. In Tarot, the Page can refer to a young man or woman - gender is not attached to this court card. The Tarot symbolism of the Page is deep and is connected back to the duality of his roots.


The page will often be placed in the position of being confidante to others but normally keeps his or her feelings to himself. The page will help others to follow their dreams but will rarely lose sight of their own. Supportive and discreet, the Page works best when working for others; they are at a point in their development where while they have their own opinions, they also need the structure and comfort of a partnered relationship.


In the Middle Ages, a page was a respected position, often filled by a young nobleman training to become a squire for a knight. As a squire, the page would accompany the knight on his campaigns and carry his armour for him (when not in use). Often, squiring was the page's entry into the world of courts and kings. After his apprenticeship in arms was complete, the page would become a knight himself and teach other pages the art of battle.


In Tarot, the Page is usually still in a dependant position and usually is represented by a child, teenager, servant, animal or an adult who perceives themself as being dependant. One of the lessons of the Page is to realize that we are all in process of transforming our lives and rising to a new level of importance and responsibility.


Part of bearing the outcome of speaking one's mind is having responsibility for ourselves; the page knew that the menial tasks of today would lead to a knighthood in the future - if he learned his lessons well. Apply yourself to what you may consider to be beneath you today if it leads to something more tomorrow.


Copyright 2008 http://www.discover-the-meaning-of-tarot.com

Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

Apr 14, 2008, A Brief History of Tarot Cards

When trying to create a history of Tarot cards, there are many holes in the available facts and much of what remains is guesswork. In terms of the history of Tarot, Tarot cards likely evolved as secretive way of passing along hidden teachings. A common idea put forth is that Tarot cards evolved as a way for teachers and students from a variety of countries and cultures to share universal knowledge. With different languages and levels of literacy, a pictorial guide was necessary in order to share spiritual truths.


The earliest remnants of a Tarot deck date back to the 1390's; from the original deck, only 17 cards still remain. In around 1420, artist Bonifacio Bembo, painted what is the only full deck that has survived to modern times. Commissioned originally by the Duke of Milan, this early deck is now known as the Visconti deck, named after the Duke's family.


While it is unlikely that Tarot cards were in existence prior to this time, the concepts illustrated in Tarot pictures are universal and have been around for thousands of years, in common knowledge as well as in myth and legend. While many of the images in Tarot decks are common to the Medieval period, many of the other archetypes present including the High Priestess point to a pre-Christian system with roots in older times. The fact that the Major Arcana presents symbols that show powerful women suggests that it significantly predates Christianity.


To be labeled a religious heretic in Medieval Europe meant torture or death. Recording alternate beliefs through a pictorial key allowed these teachings to survive and created a safer way to pass this information -with less chance of retribution. In the Renaissance period, a practice was developed based on ancient Greek teachings which was a pictorial memory system. Working with this became integral to occult teachings at this time and was commonly used to assist in meditation.


In later periods, astrology, gnosticism, Kaballah and magick have all been attached to the history of Tarot cards. These practices, along with modern psychology, have played a role in developing the meanings of each Tarot card.


The Order of the Golden Dawn, a short-lived group of esoteric magicians, played a particularly powerful role in this regard. One member, A.E. Waite, created a pictorial key to the Tarot and worked with another member, Pamela Colman Smith to create a new Tarot deck, the Colman-Rider-Waite deck. Another prominent member, Aleister Crowley, created a Tarot guide and worked with artist Lady Frieda Harris to create the Thoth deck.


Current history of Tarot cards will sometimes claim the cards to be created for evil purpose or make them much older than they are. Working through the Tarot cards in the Major Arcana is like moving through all the main phases of life, internal and external. This brief history of Tarot cards should clear up some mystery about their past and give you the opportunity of connecting with them in the present.


Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

Apr 14, 2008, Modern Psychology and Tarot-Strange Bedfellows?

Reading through the meaning of each Tarot card, it is common to wonder where the Tarot interpretations originated from. While earlier Tarot decks may have been influenced by folklore or oral traditions of the time, newer Tarot decks, especially those created in the last century have meanings linked to psychology. Not too Freudian, thank goodness!


Popular psychology is present in many definitions but more specifically, Jungian psychology has highly influenced the Tarot meanings. Carl Gustav Jung (1875-1961), was originally a student of Freud, but moved away from Freud's psycho-analytical approach to develop a rich system of symbols entirely his own.


Jung's fascination with mankind's spiritual element combined with his interest in divination, dreams and astrology seems more connected to ancient Chaldean teachings than modern psychology. Jung's personal experiences, like Freud before him, factor heavily in his system. Jung's psychic abilities were documented and he had experienced such phenomena as ghost, visions, telepathy and precognitive dreams.


Jung believed that the "collective unconsciousness is the foundation of what the ancients called 'the sympathy of all things'". For Jung, the human psyche lived in three separate parts: the conscious, the personal unconscious and the collective unconscious. Archetypes, powerful universal figures and symbols live in the personal and collective unconscious, shaping our perceptions and experiences.


These archetypes also appear over and over again in myths, legends and stories. Joseph Campbell, a popular anthropologist and writer whose work explores universal archetypes has documented them and their place in every world culture.


These symbols occur again in the Major Arcana, in the pictures representing the Tarot cards. The Empress, symbolic for the fruitful mother while the Emperor is a stern, authoritarian father are just some of the archetypes present in the Major Arcana. Jungians believe that the universal and dream-like feelings of these images work on an unconscious level and allow greater knowledge to come to the conscious mind.


In a Tarot reading, these powerful archetypes work together to create a pattern or a message that allows the questioner to understand and sort out their difficulties. Like many other oracles, their powerful symbols can also demonstrate to the reader the feelings or ideas that are lurking just below the surface of their conscious mind. The symbolism of the Tarot can be a gentler way to bring the questioner in touch with feelings they may be refusing to acknowledge.


Studying the image and meaning of these archetypes can be therapeutic for the Tarot reader or questioner and help them understand all the powerful symbols present in their lives. For those who are unhappy with who they are, working with archetypes can help them to realize the strength of their current archetype and also how everyone is made up from multiple symbols. We all have the ability to be a Warrior, Magician or Mother- archetypes evolve as we do.


To learn more about archetypes and their place in psychology and understanding, search for more information about Carl Jung and his teachings.

Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

Apr 12, 2008, Love Advice From Tarot Cards

As a Tarot card reader, I can say first hand that in matters of love and relationships, Tarot reading can offer a new perspective. Love or relationship advice is something most clients are seeking from Tarot cards; it might be the most common area of questioning.

When interpreting Tarot cards for love help, it's crucial to remember that the meanings of the cards in the Tarot spread can be objective or subjective. In relationship issues, there is the questioner's perspective of their love life and the external view of the relationship - which can be two entirely different things.

If you're reading Tarot for your self, things can be even more complicated. It can be hard to find the balance between your feelings of love and psychic impressions. Also, when you're in love, relationship advice -even from Tarot cards- may be the last thing you're looking for. You have to be in the mindset that you're open to the perspective on love and help that the Tarot cards may offer.

When you're in love and want to know more, what are the best Tarot card spreads to use? I would match the Tarot layout to the type of information you're looking for. For myself (in the past), I had the tendency of over-asking the cards about the possible future of my interests. If you have similar tendencies, try a Love Horseshoe or the Celtic Cross as a main reading to get an overview of the situation and then limit yourself to One Card Draws. If you're a little more balanced in your approach, go for something with more detail like the 6 Month Spread with a relationship focus.

Ultimately, while most people are looking for love and Tarot can give help in that department, it can't and won't solve a flawed relationship. Read the cards and look at the love help that is revealed but remember that successful relationships require patience, understanding and a lot of work.

Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

Apr 12, 2008, Calling all Tarot Artists!

I'm looking for 77 creative types who'd like to pick a card(almost any card) and redesign it to make one-of-kind Tarot deck.

Whether your medium is collage, watercolour, computer graphics, photography or ?, think of the style you'd like to give your favourite Tarot card.

Anyone interested can contact me through the Contact Form at the bottom of the About Me page at http://www.discover-the-meaning-of-Tarot.com

When you respond, please let me know what card you'd like to work on - please give a 2nd and 3rd option.

Blessings,

Lucy

Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

Apr 10, 2008, Seeing The Future : Developing Psychic Abilities through Visualization

If you're a developing psychic or just trying to become a little more connected to your sense of intuition, learning to visualize is in invaluable skill. Visualization is a process where you start working with your inner eye to see impressions (even intuitive ones). Flexing your visualization muscles can often lead to clairvoyance, the art of seeing the future. If visualization is a new skill for you, work with these suggestions to increase your comfort and ability.

• Reach For What's Familiar
  A great exercise to start with is to select a favourite possession and spend a minute or two studying it. Look at all the details, the colours, texture and note anything unusual. When you think you've memorized every detail, close your eyes and try to recreate the image of the object in your mind. When you think that you've remembered it perfectly, open your eyes and see what you missed. Try this exercise once or twice a day with different items and try to visualize things as perfectly as possible.


• Listen And See
  Just like guided meditations are valuable for calming your mind, they can also be really useful in increasing your visualization abilities. If you can't find any meditations that lead you through a visual environment, you can always create your own with a tape recorder (or as an MP3 on your computer system). Try and keep your meditations around 5 minutes to start with and try to create as evocative scene as possible, like strolling along a beach - seeing the myriad of blues in the ocean, the stones mixing with the sand, the birds crying over head. In any visualization, you want it to seem real to your senses.


• Open A BookFind a favorite novel and read through a chapter, or even a few paragraphs. Let your imagination run wild and occasionally close your eyes, recreating what you're reading in you head. Let this process of visualization be pleasurable, enjoying the story and its resulting imagery.

Like with anything, you may find it takes a little time to hone these skills. For people used to passive entertainment -TV, movies and Internet-, it may take a little longer to kick-start your inner eye. Persevere and this skill will be invaluable as you develop your intuition and increase your psychic ability. Seeing your present is the first step to seeing your future!

Copyright 2008 http://www.Discover-the-Meaning-Of-Tarot.com

Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

Apr 9, 2008, Strong Intentions Lead to Powerful Readings

I once had a slightly deranged shop teacher, Mr. Sisty (sp?) who was fond of saying 'If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.' While I know with certainty that he wasn't the source of this wisdom, I do know that it can be modified slightly to work for Tarot questions.

So now...

'If you fail to focus your question, you will receive a blurry answer.'

Almost everyone has had a reading where the cards just don't make any sense, regardless of how much you try and tweak the meanings. A junk reading, for lack of a better term. When I'm reading for clients and the cards arrange themselves like this, I usually start over.

I have learned though, whether for myself or others, when the Tarot cards fall in an order where there is no clear or consistent message, it is the trickles down effect stemming from a lack of focus.

Sometimes with Tarot cards, we are so hungry for advice, to get some otherworldly assurance that we don't even think *what* we want to know.

For Tarot cards to guide us, we need to take the lead and decide what is important to us, where our ignorance is making us suffer.

I've never known the cards to avoid a clear and direct appeal. I have, on occasion, known myself to want to avoid the truth.

Feeling as joyful as the first day of Spring!

Lucy

Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

Apr 9, 2008, I Want To Know - How To Start Hearing Your Intuition

While most people use their five senses - sight, smell, taste, touch and hearing - on a daily basis, their connection with their sixth sense, intuition, remains elusive. Every person has the ability to develop and use their psychic sense, for greater awareness of themselves as well as their environment. It's just a case of how to get started.

A sense of intuition is constantly present and trying to assert itself in impressions. The biggest challenge is learning to determine which feelings are based upon thought and observation and which are a result of your sixth sense. Using practices to quiet your mind are a great help in psychic development. Quiet my mind? Keep reading!

Modern society uses constant bombardment tactics to market, advertise and over-stimulate the average person with information. Almost anywhere is disturbed with billboards, cell phones, internet and other demands on attention.

One of the best ways of being able to hear ourselves think and feel is to meditate. Focusing on objects, praying, even creating art can all be forms of meditation. The core idea when meditating is to clear your mind of external worries or obligations, relax and stay focused.

Try...

Show Your Light: One of the easiest and least threatening meditation to try involves just lighting a candle. The idea with this meditation, like with others is to clear your mind and find focus.

Find a comfortable chair and use a candle that when lit, will have a flame at eye level. Once the candle is lit, examine the flame and make that your entire focus. Your mind will drift, other thoughts fighting their way in. Any time you notice your attention wavering, bring it back to the candle's flame.

Listen To The Music: Guided meditations require 2 items: you and a music player. They’re an excellent way of building focus but in a relaxing environment. For beginners, look for sessions that are less than 10 minutes. Remember to match the spiritual focus to your belief system.

Power of Prayer: Practicing devotion daily is another great way of getting in touch with your intuition. Whether you want to say a mantra, affirmation or a conventional prayer, the act of conscious devotion regains focus. Make sure that your intentions are clear and that you keep your direction simple.

Use Your Hands: Tactile activities like knitting, embroidery, sculpture, mosaic and beading are all mind strengtheners. Being hands on and repetitive, working this way may be your best method of meditation if you get a little stir crazy. For people that like to feel productive (and meditation doesn't yet seem like a good use of time) turning an art session into some quiet mind time can be the perfect solution.

Aim to incorporate the meditation practice of your choice into your daily life as much as possible. Work with your schedule, choosing a time of day that is unhurried and only meditate when you are alert.

Permalink -- click for full blog post



---

Apr 9, 2008, Second Guessing in Self Readings

When reading Tarot for yourself, it is easy to make it harder. By this I mean that it is almost the path of least resistance to start worrying that you are only reading what you want to read and second guessing your interpretation.

Recently, I was asking a question for myself regarding my current employment (unemployment) situation and drew the 8 of Wands. Immediately, I could feel my mood lifting, eagerly anticipating the swift changes this card promises.

Then the double-think started...is it really referring to quick changes in this matter or am I flattering myself? This is a condensed version of the next 20 minutes of self-doubt that followed.

I do have times where I can accept the information I receive the first time and acknowledge it, feeling blessed by it. Being a natural skeptic (I know many skeptics would kick me out of the group for using Tarot but that's another story), there are many times where I pull corroborating cards just because I want that extra proof.

While I know that the Tarot cards bring out the best part of me, intuitively and spiritually, even after 20 odd years, there is still a part of me that needs to double-check. Here's hoping that in another 20 years, just one card will be enough!

Kooky blessings!

Lucy

Permalink -- click for full blog post