Pore re TARO ifThe Psychic Tarot for the Heart Oracle Deck Guidebook John Holland aA HAY HOUSE HAY HOUSE, INC. Carlsbad, California + New York City London + Sydney + New DelhiCopyright © 2014 by john Holland Published in the United States by: Hay House, Inc.: www.hay house.com® « Published in Australia by: Hay House Australia Pty. Ltd.: www.hayhouse.com.au * Published in the United King- dom by: Hay House UK, Ltd.: www.hayhouse.co.uk * Published in India by: Hay House Publishers India: www.hayhouse.co.in All artwork is copyrighted by the artist and may not be reproduced by any means, electronic or otherwise, without first obtaining the permission of the artist. John Holland’s editor: Simon Steel Tarot consultant: Ann Hentz Cover art and card illustrations: John Matson Cover design: Charles McStravick + Interior design: Nick C. Welch All rights reserved. No part of this guidebook may be reproduced by any mechanical, photographic, or electronic process, or in the form of a phonographic recording; nor may it be stored in a retrieval system, transmitted, or otherwise be copied for public or private use — other than for “fair use” as brief quotations embodied in articles and reviews — without prior written permission of the publisher. The intent of the author is only to offer information of a general nature to help you in your quest for emotional and spiritual well-being. In the event you use any of the information in this guidebook yourself, the author and the publisher assume no responsi for your actions. Printed in China Other Hay House Products. by John Holland AWAKENING YOUR PSYCHIC STRENGTHS: A Complete Program for Developing Your Inner Guidance and Spiritual Potential (4-CD set) BORN KNOWING: A Medium’s Journey — Accepting and Embracing My Spiritual Gifts 101 WAYS TOJUMP-START YOUR INTUITION POWER OF THE SOUL: Inside Wisdom for an Outside World PSYCHIC NAVIGATOR: Harnessing Your Inner Guidance THE PSYCHIC TAROT ORACLE DECK (a 65-card deck and guidebook) THE SPIRIT MESSAGES DAILY GUIDANCE ORACLE DECK (a 50-card deck and guidebook; available October 2014) THE SPIRIT WHISPERER: Chronicles of a Medium All of the above are available at your local bookstore, or may be ordered by visiting: Hay House USA: www. hayhouse.com® Hay House Australia: www.hayhouse,com.au Hay House UK: www.hayhouse.co.uk Hay House India: www, hayhouse.co.inContents Introduction. 6... ix Understanding the Card Structure... 2... 0. 1 * GettingStarted. 2.0... ee 3 © CardSpreads.. 2. ee 8 © Psychic Development............. 14 * Color Interpretation ............. 18 * Numerological Meanings .......... 21 © Symbols andImages............64 24 Mayor ARCANA CARDS QO Trast ... ee Re BE REE OD , 29 1 Manifest... 0... ee eee 31 2 Listen. 2. es 33 3 Nurture... 2... ee . a5 4 Lead... ee 37 5S Teach... 2... ee 39 6 Love... ee 41 7 MOVE... ce ee 43 8 Control... .......000. .. 45 9 Seek... eee . 47 10 Flow... ... eee eee 49 ll Detach... 2.2... ee eee $1 12. Observe... 2... .....000. $3. 13, Release... ee 55 14 Balance... ee 57 1S MaStP, ss cee eee ewe eee ww HA 59 16 Rebuilds ss ewe ceca aw rit ee ems 61 17 Heal sc ssawe grain ieesce mes 63 18 Confront... 2.0... eee eee 65 19 Shine. :sasee e759 8 eM AEG es 67 20 Blossom yi je eee ae BEE G es ee 69 21 Embrace sia my ee ee4e mee eee ee 71 MINoR ARCANA CARDS Physical (Red Border — Pentacles) ........ 75 1 StrengtheningBonds............. 77 2 FindBalance...............00. 79 3 ReachOut.. 2... ... ee eee 81 4 OpenUp............0.. . 83 5 FeelingAlone...........2.200, 85 6 Giving &Receiving. 2.0... ee 87 7 AwaitingResults.... 0.0... 0.0.00. 89 8 DedicatedEffort.. 0... .......00. 91 9 Well-DeservedReward............ 93Emotions (Green Border — Cups) ......... OWN ADNAWH = COnannbhwna & S Love-Abounds, 5 4 aw ses ea wm ewes Coming Together... 20... ....-04 Share the Love. . . Opportunity Beckons. . . Change Your Focus... . 18 hae Simply Love .. 2.0... ee eee Daydreams & Decisions Moving On..... agnae Dreams Coming True........ ‘al (Indigo Border —Swords)........ Clarity of Belief... 0. eee RefusingtoSee.. 2.2... ee Sadness &lsolation. ............ JustBreathe .. 22... eee WMUTE OF LOSE ve em ee Healing Begins... 20... 02. ee Seekthe Truth, 6.2 ssc wm ee ea Helpless & Hopeless... 2.2.0.0... Darkest Fears Spirit (Violet Border — Wands) . New Vitality... 0... 2. ee Spread Your Wings... ...... Take the Lead... 1... Joy & Stability. Challenging Times ............. Believe & Succeed... .....,..05. Success & Growth. . . Rest & Reconsider. . . OmMN DH BwWrH | THE CHAKRA CARDS 1 BaseChakra. 2... ee ee ee 2 GactalChalda.. io. we cree an was 3 Solar PlexusChakra............. 4 HeartChakra.. 0... 5 ThroatChalra ..:,4 26 ses2s aw: 6 ThirdEyeChakra..... 0.0.0... 7 CrownChakra................ Recommended Resources»... 0.000000. About the Tarot Consultant... 2... ....... About the Artist... ee About the Author. 00 . 135 137 57 59 63 65 67 69 71 72 73Introduction “The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and to let it come in.” Morrié SCHWARTZ All relationships, whether they’re on an emotional, physical, mental, or spiritual level, are part of the never-ending learning process and enlightenment of the soul. No matter what category a relationship falls into (and | appreciate that there are many), it becomes a teaching tool, and with every new insight and lesson, your soul learns from these experiences and becomes stronger and richer. A relationship can also help you understand, change, or even enhance your own individual qualities. Every relationship, whether positive or nega- tive, isan opportunity for soul growth. I truly believe there are lessons in each and every relationship you encounter in life. Different types of relation- ships have an uncanny way of showing you what aspects of yourself you need to work on, At times, they reveal your vulnerabilities and insecurities, forexample, or even your need for attention, approval, and acceptance. Equally, they can identify where you may be stuck in a rut, or where you need more love, peace, healing, or joy in your life. Of course, there are times when a relationship can show you just how strong and confident you are in your own right! In reality, relationships are really about you, no matter what type of relationship it is. They're meant to be mirrors for us, always reflecting back what we need to see. The question is: Are you will- ing to look in this mirror and be open to what you need to learn, or will you simply pretend it’s not there and pass it by? As we develop and evolve, our personas also change along the way, and we often put on imaginary masks for protection. Thus, this process of looking in the mirror becomes even more important so that you can recognize who you are and like who you are. On my weekly radio show, Spirit Connections, and during my workshops, events, and lectures, the most common questions | encounter almost always pertain to matters of the heart, whether they are about current relationships, potential or hopeful future relationships, or about relationships with family members or friends. | appreciate that relationships can be lifelong commitments for many of us, so, of course, they can be a critical part of our happiness. Each and every question about love, human attraction, and personal connections is unique in its own way. When looking for an answer, I not only draw on my own experiences in life and love, but I also reach out to the ancient wisdom and guidance of the tarot for direction, clarity, and external perspective. Traditional tarot is a form of divination, using a deck consisting of both Major and Minor Arcana Cards. Although the first tarot deck seems to have appeared in medieval times, its exact origin remains a mystery, and people continue to be drawn to and fascinated by this ageless divination tool. The Psychic Tarot for the Heart Oracle Deck was specifically created with a broad understanding and wisdom of the traditional tarot to help you with your relationships and guide you in matters of the heart. In this deck, you'll find 65 beautifully illustrated cards that will give you the opportunity to step back and look at your relationships from an intuitive or psychic perspective, allowing you to make better decisions that are not based purely on emotion. This deck enables you to see what’s really in front of you, how it got there, and where it could possibly be headed. | do not believe that the future is set in stone, as what you do today can alter the outcome of a situation. And the same logic applies xito relationships — one small action can have the most extraordinary ripple effect. I created this deck so it can work for everyone, both novices and those who have experience working with the tarot or oracle cards. I’ve always loved accessing the ancient wisdom of the tarot and combining it with my own psychic abilities. By doing so, a whole new world opens up, as well as different ways of looking intuitively! Throughout this guidebook, you will notice lots of evocative questions; some are to the point, while others have profoundly deep meanings. | hope they make you stop, think, and question. | have been and remain a passionate advocate for people to reawaken and use their natural intuitive abilities, so throughout the guidebook, I’ll describe techniques that will explain psychic development; the meanings of colors, shapes, and symbology; card spreads; divination; numerology; chakras (energy centers); and imagination. | even teach this in one of my signature workshops, Learn to Awaken Your Psychic Strengths. By using the cards, you'll learn to open your heart and view all relationships through the eyes of your soul. As a result you'll discover an even better relationship that’s waiting for you — the relationship of your soul-self. xii Working as a psychic medium, I have come to appreciate people on a soul level. This helps me express love through my heart, experience the interaction as a soul, and decipher the lessons that I need to learn. This, I wish for you also. This deck is not just for lovers! It was designed with love to help you understand, create, and improve relationships of any type, including the relationship with Self. Use it to become more intimate with your partner, to better understand your parents and siblings, to guide your children, to enjoy your friends, and to find new relationships. Whether this is your first deck or one of many, I sincerely hope you continue to grow on your journey, tap into your own psychic abilities, and acknowledge and learn in a positive way from each and every relationship that presents itself to you. Many blessings, John xiiiUnderstanding the Card Structure Major Arcana Cards: There are 22 Major Arcana Cards numbered from 0 to 21. These rep- resent some of the main themes or spiritual lessons that are playing out in your life or the life of the person being read at that moment. These cards contain strong archetypal figures and can depict some of the qualities of an individual. Minor Arcana Cards: The Minor Arcana Cards comprise 36 cards divided into four catego- ries that address the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of your lite. Each section has nine cards numbered from 1 to 9. They are more representative of daily life and will describe how an individual reacts to a certain situation regarding matters of the heart, the emotions involved with it, and what’s currently happening. These cards are helpful in giving direction on how to resolve the situation and move forward.I have also included the traditional tarot symbols (pentacles, cups, swords, and wands) to help you better understand and integrate my own interpretation and that of the traditional tarot. Here’s an overview of each of the categories of the Minor Arcana: * Physical — Red Border (Pentacles): Represents business, finances, money, prosperity, earthly possessions, material gain or loss, and security * Emotions — Green Border (Cups): Represents relationships of the heart, feelings, desires, love, and joy * Mental — Indigo Border (Swords): Represents communication, thoughts, ideas, intellect, and the workings of the mind; as well as obstacles, difficulties, decisions, and power * Spirit — Violet Border (Wands): Rep- resents the spark of life, inspiration, spiritual force and principles, aspira- tions, willpower, and passion Chakra Cards: The chakras are the energy centers of the body, and | often refer to them as our “spiritual batteries.” Chakra is a Sanskrit word meaning “wheel.” Our anatomy is a complex piece of engineering served by a network of etheric wir- ing through which energy flows. The chakras are the organizing centers that act as both reception and transmission points for psychic information and life energies (chi/prana), which are essential for the well-being of our body, mind, and continu- ation of our spiritual development. Although there are many of these points throughout the body, for this deck I’ve focused on the seven main chakras. If one of the chakra cards is drawn, it’s a reminder to be aware of that particular energy center and the qualities it represents, and apply that information accordingly to the reading of the cards or spread. You may well want to ask yourself: Is this chakra (energy center) being affected by what’s going on in my life? Getting Started Before you start using this card deck, | want to offer some useful tips and guidance for getting the most from the cards and guidebook.Tip no. 1. When you first acquire your cards, remember that these are your personal cards — they're not meant for anyone else. Be quite particular about whom you allow to examine them. Of course, the person who’s asking for a reading will need to touch the cards, but they aren’t meant for others to play with or handle. They should ask for your permission first! Only people you trust should be allowed to handle your deck, Make your deck sacred. Some people choose to wrap their cards in silk, while others find an adorned box where they can store them safely. Another good option is to keep them in a beautiful cloth bag, perhaps one specially designed for a tarot deck. Now that you have your new deck, it’s vital to familiarize yourself with it. Start by looking at each card one by one and getting a feel for its energy. Then take a few minutes to randomize the deck; that is, make sure to shuffle well. The best way to do so is to lay the cards out in seven piles, and pick up the piles in a random order. Then go ahead and shuffle the deck with your hands, This whole process is part of the personal initialization to put your energy into the cards. You're getting to know them as much as they’re getting to know you — it works both ways. As you use your deck, it’s important to clear it occasionally. Some ways of clearing the deck are to place it in the sunshine or moonlight, smudge it with sage or incense, envision it being filled with white purifying light from the Divine, or place it on aclear quartz or amethyst cluster. Tip no. 2. Read the entire guidebook. It’s okay to go back and review it several times in order to allow the directions and meanings to become stored in your memory. Feel free to refer to the guidebook for your initial readings and during the learning period. However, once you're confident, put this guidebook ina safe place; hopefully, you won't need it again. | don't want you to be dependent upon the instruction manual. Now you're ready to work with and interpret the cards in your own way, combining the guidebook meanings with your own intuition. Each card will represent something specific to you, but it could have an entirely different meaning to someone else. You'll soon integrate your intuitive mind with your knowledge of the tarot and discover your own unique way of reading the cards.Tip no. 3. When you're ready to do a reading, take out the cards, hold them in your hands, close your eyes, and center yourself. Become grounded by taking a few deep breaths as you clear your mind. Open up your energy centers and imagine pure white Divine light running through you, entering at the top of your head and flowing to the bottom of your feet. When you feel grounded and energized, allow the light to fade. Tip no. 4. Now it’s time for your question. You can ask a specific question or just let the cards tell you what they want you to knowat this time. Shuffle the deck to put your own energy into it, or have the person who is about to receive the reading shuffle. Ifa card pops up or falls out of the deck while shuf- fling, set that card aside. It’s telling you that it wants to be part of the reading and has important infor- mation for you. After shuffling, if you wish to, you can cut the deck in whatever way you would like (or instruct the individual you're reading for to do so in the manner he or she prefers). It’s a personal decision, but I like to cut them into three piles, picking up the middle one first, followed by the right-hand pile, and then the left — it’s your choice, though. If you're asking he question, then you cut the deck; if you’re reading for others, then, naturally, they do it. Keep in mind hat cutting the deck is optional, not required, for a reading. Tip no. S. It’s time to select the cards and do he reading. Fan the deck facedown on a table and pull the appropriate number of cards based on the spread you've chosen. Place the cards in the various spread positions. Turn them over and take your ime as you become aware of which cards are in ront of you. Notice if there are Major or Minor Arcana Cards and how many of each. Also examine he different colors, symbols, words, or numbers on he cards. Don’t focus too hard on just one card — pay attention to all of them and the order in which hey’re laid out. Use your knowledge of the meaning of the cards contained in this guidebook; listen to your intuitive, psychic mind to communicate the information the cards are conveying, Open yourself to the cards as they tell a story in their own language. Unleash your imagination and allow them to speak to you. Trust what you're intuiting! And please remember, if you don’t receive the answer you're hoping for, don’t keep drawingcards until you do get the response you desire. A reading is the Law of Divination in action — you may not get what you want, but you will get what you actually need. This deck isn’t meant to have reversed card interpretations, so if one is inverted when pulling it or when laying it out in a spread, just realize that it took a little extra effort to turn it right side up and give that card slightly more attention. The purpose of the Psychic Tarot for the Heart Oracle Deck is to create positive experiences and provide enlighten- ment and support, not to reflect or heighten nega- tive interpretations. Its aim is to give you guidance around your many and varied relationships and pro- vide you with a look ahead so that you can make the proper choices that will lead to a beneficial outcome for your highest good. Card Spreads There are many different card spreads to choose from. You can also pull a single card for guidance every day, or pull one for the week or even the whole month. This deck can help you discover ways to strengthen your relationships, understand what’s underlying any issues, and answer any questions you have regarding matters of the heart. .Here are a few of my suggestions for card spreads, but I’m sure that you'll find your favorite or make up your own as you become more confident. Single-Card Reading Formulate a question in your mind and begin to shuffle the cards. When you feel ready, pull one card from anywhere in the deck. You may want to fan the deck on the table to make it easier to select a card. Examine the one you’ve chosen and interpret its meaning. Then use your intuition and look even deeper into all the elements of that card, such as the number, words, colors, figures, images, symbols, and so on. Determine how any element that attracted your eye affects your interpretation of the card.Three-Card Spread This is a quick and easy way to understand the past, as well as where you are right now in the present, and what the possibilities are for the future. Remember that the future is not cast in stone. If you don’t like what the cards show for the future, shift your energy, make different choices, and bring in something favorable. Past Present Future Blessings and Challenges Spread All of our relationships are blessings in some way, although at times it may be hard to see this. Sometimes the blessings bring us great joy, and sometimes they come in the form of lessons. This simple spread helps you to see how a relationship may be supporting you or aiding in your growth. Just pull three cards, lay them out, and see what story they tell. You can also use this spread to look at the challenges in a relationship.Issue — Action — Outcome Spread This spread is useful when there’s a specific issue that needs to be resolved. The first card posi- tion helps you clarify what’s at the heart of the mat- ter. The second position suggests what you might do to improve the situation. The final card, of course, is what you might expect to happen as a result. Action Outcome 12 Yearly Forecast This spread helps you to see how your relation- ship may evolve over the upcoming year. Simply lay out one card for each month of the year. Realize that as your energy shifts throughout the weeks and months, so will your future. You may want to repeat the yearly forecast in about six months to get a glimpse of the most current probabilities. pie, ae Calendar Spread we 13Here are some final tips on asking questions: * Keep your questions clear and focused. This will make it easier to interpret the cards. ¢ — Keep your spreads simple. * — Try not to ask “yes” or “no” questions such as, “Will this happen?” Such questions imply that the future is cast in stone. You can ask, “Given the current energy, is it likely that this will happen?” Now you're looking at probability. * — It’s better to ask questions that include how, why, what, and so forth. In other words, be specific. By doing so, you'll get more useful information and guidance. * Ifyou pull a card and aren’t sure how to interpret it, pull additional cards to help clarify its meaning. Psychic Development We're all born with psychic abilities, and each and every one of us develops in our own way and in our own time — and we receive psychic intuitive 14 information in many different ways. Everyone has one or more psychic strengths: Some of us feel (clairsentience), others hear (clairaudience), and some see (clairvoyance). Each of these corresponds to a specific chakra when it comes to receiving psychic information. When conducting a reading, notice if you're feeling, hearing, or seeing something that may not be coming directly from the cards but, in fact, is emanating from your psychic self. Share that information to see if you're on target. Once your insights have been validated, you'll quickly learn to trust that it’s important to share what you receive, and often the information is correct. Don’t worry if you're wrong at first; by continuing to use your ability, it will grow stronger and stronger. When you’re developing psychically, | highly recommend that you practice different meditation techniques to still your mind — to silence any “mental chatter.” Answers aren’t always found on the outside but are usually discovered from within Thus, intuitive guidance can be yours when you learn to quiet your mind. Try doing this at least 15 minutes a day for one week. You’ll soon notice that your conscious thoughts become quieter, creating the space for intuitive and psychic guidance to flow. 15In addition, by meditating regularly, you'll find that all areas of your life will benefit. Here are a just a few simple ways to build your extrasensory ability depending on where your strength lies, For more detailed information on psychic-development education, information, and techniques, please refer to my book Psychic Navigator: Harnessing Your Inner Guidance. Clairsentience (Inner Feeling) We all have an inner sense of knowing, which is that gut feeling we get when we feel strongly about something or even someone. Have you ever met someone and have instantly known whether or not you're going to like this person? Have you had a strong feeling or inexplicable knowledge about something that you didn’t do or follow, only for it to be proven correct? Next time youre about to make a decision, particularly if it involves your heart, stop for a moment and ask yourself: How do | feel about this decision? Does it feel positive or negative, and why? By following your intuition, you'll be guided toward making better choices. 16 Clairaudience (Inner Hearing) Do you know what others are thinking? Do songs suddenly pop into your mind, which tug on your heartstrings? This is known as inner hearing. The heart is a complex and emotional part of the body, so pure rationalization is often not enough! At first, it can be confusing when determining if these are your thoughts or intuitive knowledge. When you're outdoors, practice this skill by learning to stretch your hearing: Listen to sounds far off in the distance and then to ones closer to you. As you hear all of it together, listen inwardly between the sounds. This is where the intuitive information flows and can be heard Clairvoyance (Inner Vision) Some people have the psychic ability known as “clear seeing” or clairvoyance. It’s when intuitive information forms pictures, symbols, words, and colors in your mind’s eye. The reception area is right between your eyebrows. To develop this gift, try this simple exercise: Place a small candle safely in front of you. Relax, take some deep breaths, and gaze at the flame for a few minutes. Then close 17your eyes and observe the afterimage. Let it fade, and then repeat the exercise. This will strengthen your third-eye area. Color Interpretation We're all made up of energy and light, so in reality it’s as though we’re a rainbow of colors. Every color has its own energy and meaning. These mean- ings can differ based on culture, era, current con- text, and personal experience. For example, it’s easy to see when someone is madly in love; he or she just exudes a vibrant color! In my first deck, The Psychic Tarot Oracle Deck, | provided some general mean- ings for various colors. Since this deck is focused on love, relationships, and matters of the heart, I've modified the color meanings to be interpreted in this context. When you're using the tarot, be sure to note if one color predominates in a card spread. Also pay attention to any color on a card that your eye is drawn to. When interpreting the color, feel free to use the information on the following pages, the original color descriptions in my first deck, any good resources on the meaning of colors, or even your own personal take on that color. As always, trust 18 your intuition to decide what meaning is intended for that color at that moment. The following is a basic explanation of the colors of the spectrum as they relate to love: * — Red symbolizes: passion, romantic love, enthusiasm, boldness, vitality, power, confidence, courage, and anger. Red is associated with the Base Chakra. ¢ Orange symbolizes: warmth, caring, creativity, curiosity, pleasure, persever- ance, self-esteem, personal power, and deception. Orange is associated with the Sacral Chakra. ¢ — Yellow symbolizes: joy, positive en- ergy, clarity, awareness, insight, focus, optimism, enlightenment, and burnout. Yellow is associated with the Solar Plexus Chakra. ¢ — Green symbolizes: healing, balance, nurturance, fertility, renewal, learning, harmony, growth, and envy, Green is associated with the Heart Chakra. 19,Blue symbolizes: peace, sincerity, truth, communication, expression, freedom, coolness, detachment, and sadness. Blue is associated with the Throat Chakra. Indigo symbolizes: wisdom, empower- ment, personal insight, perception, problem solving, understanding, soli- tude, and depression. Indigo is associated with the Third Eye Chakra. Violet symbolizes: good judgment, fulfillment, peace of mind, balance, wis- dom, patience, trust, removing obsta- cles, and uneasiness. Violet is associated with the Crown Chakra. Pink symbolizes: unconditional love, happiness, friendship, sweetness, romance, tenderness, acceptance, and weakness White symbolizes: new beginnings, neutrality, truce, marriage, simplicity, clarity, honesty, and coldness. 20 Brown symbolizes: comfort, endurance, dependability, stability, humility, genu- ineness, approachability, groundedness, and stubbornness. Black symbolizes: power, authority, po- tential, protection, questions, unknown, overwhelmed, fear, and unhappiness. Gold symbolizes: success, quality, personal power, happiness, attainment, true friendship, spirituality, excess, and self-indulgence. Numerological Meanings Numerology is an ancient system that inter- prets the meaning of numbers and dates, as well as the numeric value of letters. Every number vibrates to its own frequency and wavelength. By under- standing your own personal numbers, you'll become more aware of the patterns and cycles in your life. Numerology is useful when reading tarot cards and adds an additional layer of meaning to the spread, When you’re reading for yourself or for others, take note if the same number appears more athan once in the spread. If so, consider its vibratory meaning and include that in your interpretation of what the cards are trying to tell you. There are 22 Major Arcana Cards numbered from 0 to 21. There are 36 Minor Arcana Cards divided into four groups and numbered from one to nine. Using numerology with the Minor Arcana is quite simple; just use the number on the card. When using numerology with the Major Arcana, just change the double digits into single ones by adding them together. For example, the number 16 would be represented as 1 +6=7. This enables you to interpret the meaning of the single number. In this example, you'd examine the energy of the number seven. In the following list, I've modified the key words to be more closely associated with relationships: No. 1: Beginnings, leadership, courage, willpower, independence, victory, pride, obstinacy, aggressiveness No. 2: Balance, partnership, tenderness, consideration, receptiveness, collaboration, choices, opposition, negligence 22 No. No. No. No. No. Creativity, harmony, happiness, growth, connection, enthusiasm, children, suspicion, falseness Dependability, sincerity, honesty, patience, integrity, structure, stagnation, repressive, limitation Freedom, transformation, sensuality, desire, change, resistance, uncertainty, inconsistency, sadness Family, peace, cooperation, compromise, loyalty, roles, constraint, envy, doubt Soul connection, inner awareness, understanding, insight, analysis, practicality, indifference, detachment, criticism Aspiration, fairness, honesty, comfort, security, control, friction, resentment, oppression 23No. 9: Progress, renewal, vitality, inspiration, generosity, transition, ending, haste, drama Symbols and Images It’s said that the subconscious mind doesn’t think without a visual reference. Even when we're thinking about affairs of the heart — our loved ones, those we desire, or perhaps the relationships that have ended in the past — each have their own unique visual imprint on the mind and soul. The artwork associated with the tarot is symbolic; the scenes, symbols, shapes, and figures give specific meanings to each card. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the images so that they become absorbed and imprinted into your intuitive mind, or —as | like to refer to it — your “psychic database.” You'll quickly develop a keen eye for detail and begin to see other images that resonate specifically with you. When developing your psychic abilities, many symbols will take on new meanings. A certain symbol’s meaning for you could have a totally different meaning for someone else. Oftentimes 24 when I’m demonstrating my psychic ability or my mediumship, a certain symbol will begin to form in my mind with an associated meaning that has significance specifically to me. You’ve heard the saying, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” Well, it’s true; when an image or symbol forms, | know exactly how it pertains to the person I'm reading for or delivering a message to. Usually there’s a whole personal story that goes with it, which just goes to validate the authenticity of the message. An example | typically use with my students is as follows: | ask them to visualize Niagara Falls in their minds and what it means to them. I tell them not to overthink it and to tell me what instantly comes to mind. Some students say the image rep- resents power, whereas others say electricity, and some even say cleansing. But when | see this image during a reading, my personal database interprets it ina more literal way as Upstate New York or Canada, because that’s where the falls are located. We all develop our own unique image databases. The main point is that by working with the tarot, you begin to incorporate psychically different meanings for different symbols and pictures whether it’s for you or for the person you're reading. oSencourage my students to look through books and magazines containing photography — really, anything with pictures, paintings, or drawings. Let the images speak to you. How does a particular image make you feel? Inspired? Happy or sad? Intrigued? The reason for doing this is for your subconscious to absorb it into your psychic database for future use. Using the tarot and noticing different symbols will only expand your natural, intuitive psychic abilities. It all helps. Finally, | encourage you to keep a journal to record your interpretations when you receive a symbol or even how you feel about a symbol in the tarot. Ask yourself: What does this symbol mean to me? How does it make me feel? By writing down your thoughts and feelings, you also help to etch these meanings into your subconscious memory for future use. Soon you'll notice that the same symbol appears over and over again. 26 Major Arcana CardsKey words: Leap, dare, innocence, optimism, belief, courage Rejoice! The Universe is looking out for you. Now it’s time to trust that the path you’re on is in fact the right one. Believe that whatever you desire concerning affairs of the heart can be manifested in the proper time and for your highest good. Trusting the Universe takes courage, but it also removes the burden of doing it all on your own. When you feel alone in a situation, it can diminish your energy and desire to take actions that will improve the situation. This card reminds you that you are not alone. It is also 29a reminder that positive energy is available to you to manifest what you truly desire. In addition to trust, this is a card of action and opportunity. Once we know that the Universe “has our back,” we are free to take that all-important leap of faith and pursue our dreams concerning affairs of the heart. Put aside any fear, disillusionment, frustration, or hopelessness and open your heart to what you desire. Do it now with the carefree innocence you had as a child, and expect to receive what you need. Take steps to find love, or to improve or strengthen a relationship. Take some risks, and maintain an atti- tude of positive expectancy. Whether it’s a relationship with another per- son or the relationship with yourself, now is the time to take action. Even a good relationship can be improved. What steps can you take to achieve what you desire? Affirmation: I open myself to giving and receivi that is for my highest good J y Ingest g Traditional tarot archetype: Fool 30 | Manifest Key words: Act, create, focus, magic, clarity, intent This is a time of great power for you. The Manifest card is here to tell you that anything is possible. You have all the tools at your disposal to create whatever you desire. You have a variety of tools that can be put to good use. The ability to love unconditionally, to support, to cherish, to listen, to understand, to forgive, to be kind, to be joyful, and even to be silly. . . all of these are useful tools in managing affairs of the heart, Take some time to determine what your best tools are so that you can 31use them to work your own unique brand of magic around relationships. Before using these tools to manifest your desires, take some time to be clear on exactly what you want. A magician is always focused on his or her intent before working magic. You have the ability to manifest what you desire now, so take a moment so there’s total clarity. What do you truly need and want? Is it in your highest good? Is it in the highest good of the other person? Will it harm anyone? Magic and manifestation are powerful. When you come from a place of love, you will generate love. Be clear, be honest in your intent, and take action to manifest your heart’s desire. You have what it takes to achieve this! Affirmation: [use my power to manifest deliberately and with clear intent. Traditional tarot archetype: Magician 32 Key words: See, hear, sense, quiet, intuition, knowing Take a moment to quiet your mental chatter and listen. In relationships, it’s important to pay attention to what the other person is really saying. Too often in conversations, youre already planning what you're going to say while the other person is still talking You make assumptions about where the conversation is going and plan your part of the conversation accordingly, even working the conversation to a desired outcome! When this happens, you don’t truly “hear” what the other person said, and in doing so, you weren’t present for that person. 33Listening starts with becoming quiet, centered, and totally present. Listening involves many senses. Use your eyes to see the body language of the other person. Use your ears to hear not only the words spoken but also the tone used to express them. Use your intuition to get a sense of what the person is really saying and feeling. Intuition often helps you hear what is not said as well as what is said. This is crucial to understanding the person or situation. Understanding is essential to improving the relationship or situation. Remember once again to center yourself and use all of your senses to under- stand what is actually being communicated. Listening is a gift. Give this gift to your partner, parents, children, friends, co-workers, pets, and anyone you meet. Most important, give this gift to yourself. Tune in to your mind, body, and soul. Are you listening? What do you hear? Affirmation: ut and tridy sages | hear Traditional tarot archetype: High Priestess 34 Key words: Cherish, nourish, blossom, abundance, nature, creativity The Nurture card reminds you to “tend the garden.” Relationships must be nourished in order to thrive. Count the abundant blessings of the relationships you have. Find ways to let other people know that you care for them and appreciate them. Good relationships can be taken to new levels of happiness, and faltering relationships can be revived with loving care and attention. Equally, be sure to tend to your relationship with yourself. Nurture your soul by giving yourself 35the grace to be who you really are, and love yourself for it. Take a few moments every day to connect with the Divine. Pullacard from this deck, meditate for five minutes, or simply have an attitude of grati- tude. Nurture your mind by engaging in activities that stimulate and engage. Use your creativity in some way every day. Everyone has the ability to be creative, whether you paint, write, cook, sew, sing, dance... live! Take care of your body by maintain- ing your good health or by making it healthy. Relax in a bubble bath, enjoy a good cup of tea, or take a long walk. Connecting with nature will soothe and nourish all aspects of yourself. Remember that nurturing yourself also raises your vibration and sends a signal of love into the Universe. If you desire it, that signal will be a beacon that will bring a new and loving relationship to you. Affirmation: ! shower all my relationships with loving attention and watch them blossom. Traditional tarot archetype: Empress 36 Key words: Guide, prioritize, act, structure, effort, reason In matters of the heart, the energy of this card can both help and hinder. Examine the role that you play in your relationships. Do you take the lead and guide the direction of the relationship, or do you follow the other person? If you lead, are you forcing your will on the other person? If you follow, are your own needs being met? A solid relationship involves give and take, lead and follow. There has to be an even exchange of energy, and this is true for all relationships. This card reminds you to guide — not dominate 37This card focuses on the intellectual rather than the emotional side of relationships. How is the relationship serving those involved? If a relationship is to be healthy and strong, everyone’s needs must be met. There has to be sufficient structure and order so that each person knows the boundaries. Each person must make the relationship a priority and put effort into making it strong. And finally, the decisions made in and about the relationship must be based on sound reasoning rather than pure ego. If you're looking for a romantic relationship, are you actively searching, or are you hoping some- one will simply show up in your life? This is a card of action — of being proactive, not reactive. Take the lead! Network. Make yourself available. Affirmation: [ensure Traditional tarot archetype: Emperor 38 Key words: Shepherd, advis learn, wisdom, reflection, beliefs Although the name of this card is Teach, it brings the dual energies of both teaching and learning. You have much wisdom to offer regarding affairs of the heart. This wisdom has been gained through all your joys and your sorrows. At this time there may be an opportunity to assist someone regarding a relationship. That person may even be you. When the opportunity arises, remember the shepherd — one who gently guides his sheep along the desired path. Use that same gentleness in guiding yourself or others. 39There may also be an opportunity to learn right now. This could take place in many ways, through conversations, observations, or even reflection. Take amoment to reflect on what you have already learned about your relationships and what you still want or need to understand. Then seek a teacher who will help you arrive at that understanding. The downside of the Teach card is when our “teachers” want us to blindly follow their direction. In relationships, this often leads to restrictions and disappointment. These “teachers” come in many forms... family, friends, society, and so on. If a relationship is not going smoothly, maybe it’s time to examine the beliefs you hold about relationships. Are they truly your beliefs, or have you unintention- ally accepted the beliefs of others, beliefs that no longer serve you? Affirmation: in matters of the heart, | learn what I don’t know, and rem n true to m) Traditional tarot archetype: Hierophant 40° Key words: Relate, choose, harmonize, romance, creativity, reconciliation Take some time to examine your relationship with others as well as yourself. Are you coming from a place of love? It’s important to empathize, remain nonjudgmental, and love people for who they are. The same applies to your relationship with yourself. There’s an opportunity now to bring your Being into a harmonious whole. Forgive your faults and rejoice in your perfect uniqueness. It may also be time to examine the choices you make regarding matters of the heart. Are youchoosing to have people in your life who support and empower you? Surround yourself only with those who encourage and sustain you, and who push or guide you to be all that you truly can be. This will help you value yourself and raise your vibration to that of unconditional love There may also be an opportunity for a new romance, for improving an existing romance, or for healing a disharmonious relationship. Seize this energy and take action! If you're looking for a new romance, make yourself available and be open. See it and feel it in your life right now! This will raise your vibration and attract that new love to you. If you're looking to improve an existing romance, then maybe it’s time to be creative — a weekend getaway, a romantic dinner, or simply telling the person how much you love and appreciate them. To heal a disharmonious relationship, open a dialogue. Let the person know that you value the relationship and want to improve it. Affirmation: | honor myself as well as others by acting ace of love. from a pl Traditional tarot archetype: Lovers 42 Key words: Act, direct, master, discipline, focus, effort Now is the time to be proactive regarding mat- ters of the heart. If you’re looking for a relationship, take the initiative to find one. Take advantage of the many ways to meet your soul mate. This card is about action, action, action! If your current rela- tionship is not moving in the direction you wish, do whatever is required to shift the direction. You're the master of your own destiny — and that includes your relationships. Don’t wait for others to make the first move or set the tone of the relationship. Take charge! 43