The Raw and Scary Meaning of Death in the Tarot

Prisma Visions Tarot

It's Scorpio season, a time of letting go, endings and transformation.

Scorpio is linked to Death in the Tarot, so it's the perfect time to talk about the raw and scary aspects of this card nobody wants to raise when it pops up in a reading.

There is no beating around the bush: Death isn't the happiest card in the Tarot.

It ain't pretty (unless you are a tree in autumn shedding your leaves), it ain't fun.

Even the cheerful motto Out with the old, in with the new often covers up melancholy moments of letting something go that holds bittersweet memories.

Scorpio's sting hurts, even if it's just a tiny bit.

And while Death may well symbolise the transformation of the caterpillar into a beautiful butterfly, for us humans the process is more complex, at best uncomfortable and at worst very painful and crushing.

There is no point in denying the true meaning of Death, which in essence is about irreversible endings.

It's the finality of Death that can be so painful and hard to accept.

There is no point in denying the ugly side of Death, full stop. Popular tarot blogs and new age happy clappers want to make us believe that Death is a wonderful thing.

That it's about fabulous change and new beginnings, which sounds great but somehow sanitises its actual meaning.

It's time to acknowledge this card for what it really stands for:

An ending you - or your client - don't want and didn't ask for.

And yes, it can sometimes even mean physical death. It was my father's year card in his final year of life.

That doesn't mean you should tell your client that they or one of their loved ones is about to die. No, please don't.

Instead, when this card comes up in a reading, ask yourself (or your client) what this card means to you (them) at this moment in time.

Death is a taboo subject in our society and often brushed under the carpet. Anything to do with it including fear of death, grieving, and preparing for it when seriously ill.

Because we are living longer, we tend to take the time we have for granted. Death in a reading can remind us that we don't have all the time in the world.

Death reminds us not to delay turning our dreams into reality, because one day it will be too late.

Death in a reading can act as a reminder of our mortality. Together with Justice, it may be a good idea to make a will and get your affairs in order (including life insurance) to prepare for the inevitable.

To many, this sounds macabre, but what you would really be doing is taking care of your loved ones in case something happens to you.

It can suggest any of the five stages of grieving - denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance - you or your client may be experiencing. It's time to tackle those emotions.

Death says: "What are you wasting your time on? Life is too short."

Death is a process, and sometimes we don't realise we've been through it until we look back and realise that the last couple of years or so have been tough and transformed us into the person we are today.

And we are still alive - that's the good news! Let's make the most of it.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

PS: Learn more about how to use the cards for self-exploration and healing in my Discovery Tarot Course.

Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

The Meaning of Death in the Tarot of Quotes

In the spirit of Halloween and the upcoming Day of the Dead, let's dive into the meaning of Death in the Tarot.

Death is one of the most feared and misunderstood cards in the Tarot, so I thought that creating a dramatic image of a skeleton trying to escape from its grave would give that reputation justice😄

But of course when this card comes up in a reading, it very rarely indicates physical death.

The skeleton and the Autumn leaves symbolise the shedding of old to allow for new growth in Spring.

Death is all about transformation - endings, conclusions, change, growth.

Astrologically, Death is linked to Scorpio, the zodiac sign of transformation.

At Halloween, Scorpio is the ruling sun sign.

We are celebrating endings, but new beginnings follow swiftly: on the 1st November it’s the beginning of the Celtic New Year and start of winter according to the Celtic tradition.

Transformation is happening gradually.

Endings, change and ultimately growth are no easy processes to go through.

At times there is discomfort, emotional upheaval and pain along the way. 

But the message of this card is that something new will emerge that is taking us into a new direction.

Death in a reading may remind us of our own mortality and therefore asks us to live more consciously.

It also advises us to embrace change as a means for growth, even if it hurts at times.

For your Halloween contemplation, you can explore what this card means to you right now in your life:

• What do you need to let go of that no longer serves you?

• Who or what have you lost recently you need to come to terms with?

• How can you best adapt to changes that you are facing? These changes can be external but also physically and emotionally.

• How can you transform anguish, loss and grief into a new sense of purpose and understanding?

Halloween is also a good time to get in touch with your dark side.

Whatever way you spend Halloween and the Day of the Dead – spooky fun or quiet reflection – have a good one!

Warmest wishes,

Christiane 🎃

Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

When Death Is Your Year Card

When Death is your year card, be prepared for some massive transformation.

I've written about Death in the Tarot many times before, and I have always tried to balance the love n light positive with the inherent uncomfortable aspect of this card.

Now I'm in a position, where I am actually living through a year, in which Death is my annual growth symbol.

The year isn't over yet, so anything can still happen, and I am prepared for whatever crazy and mind-boggling stuff is hurling my way.

But so far, 2022 has already been quite a rollercoaster ride of flux and change.

The pandemic has a lot to answer for. It was the harbinger of my year of Death transformation.

And with the war in Ukraine, I realised that the world as we knew it pre-pandemic, has changed forever.

With the old and established order slowly but surely desintigrating, millions of people are affected by a new sense of insecurity.

There is a lot of evaluation going on in terms of living your best life and making the most of life and the time you have left.

Hence the Great Resignation and massive shift in the way people demand new ways of working, including remote working and the introduction of the 4-day week.

So while the old order is dying, something new is emerging.

On a personal level, I came to a point in February, when I realised that I had been running my tarot biz for more than a decade.

I had noticed for a while that I needed to take a break from it, simply to recharge my batteries, so I could gather new ideas and inspiration.

I decided to put my Patreon on hold, so I no longer needed to post new content every month.

While I never had a break from creating lots of content, the last three months of my Patreon journey started to put pressure on my creative flow.

So I put Patreon on hold.

One of the reasons why I haven't resumed is that I had the urge to return to the commercial world after twenty years of absence.

I am currently working from home for a large retailer serving customers in Europe. God bless the internet, online shopping and the digital nomad revolution.

My current role however is a contract limited until the end of January 2023, but in the meantime, I am already working on transforming my online presence on this website and elsewhere.

You see, while Tarot has been a massive passion of mine for so many years, it has also nudged me into exploring new possibilities.

In recent months, I have virtually abandoned all social media and only post occasionally on Instagram.

I let go of all the toxic social media and the damage it has caused and will cause in time to come.

I'm at a stage in my life, where I no longer need to earn a living from Tarot. I want to continue creating content at my leasure for fun.

That's why I have also put on hold all personal courses and mentoring, but my self-study courses and ebooks are still available.

If you need help with any of these, please don't hesitate to send me a message.

But wait, there is more...😄

A couple of weeks ago, there was a serious health scare in the family.

When a loved one is taken to hospital with a potential life-threatening illness, it's hard to keep focused and cool.

Thankfully, the suspected heart attack has turned out to be "just" an inflammation of the heart, which was caused by Covid, and with the current medication has the chance to be healed.

It's still serious, and it has again made me think about life, what is important to me and what I want to do.

As you can see, I am in transition on a road to somewhere.

The metamorphosis is in progress. It feels uncomfortable, but at the same time there are rays of light and illumination.

When Death is your year card, be prepared for anything.

But watch this space. Endings bring new beginnings.

“You have to die a few times before you can really live.”
- Charles Bukowski

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

Pluto In The Tarot

Pluto is one of the three modern planets discovered in 1930, and it was later added to the Tarot as the ruling planet for Judgement.

Together with Mars, it is one of Scorpio's ruling planets, so in the Tarot it is also linked to Death, the zodiac card for Scorpio.

Pluto in the Tarot is not associated with any Minor Arcana cards, which have all been assigned to the traditional seven planets.

While all planets represent gods, Pluto is the God of the Underworld, so it makes sense that it is now linked to Scorpio and Death.

The energy of Pluto is that of transformation, regeneration, letting go as well as the unconscious.

It is associated with sexuality, physical and spiritual birth, with death and resurrection.

Pluto nudges us to confront our - and nature's - darker, more instinctive side.

Pluto energy offers us psychological insight and the ability to heal and regenerate.

On the other hand, it can generate obsessive compulsive tendencies.

So what does this all mean for Judgement and Death in the Tarot?

"I was dreamin' when I wrote this, forgive me if it goes astray
But when I woke up this mornin', could've sworn it was judgment day
The sky was all purple, there were people runnin' everywhere
Tryin' to run from the destruction, you know I didn't even care..."

- Prince, 1999

Pluto's influence on Judgement suggests the ability and necessity to let go of old patterns and baggage in order to move on.

After all, a change of direction is an ending, just like putting closure on a situation by having learned a lesson or practicing forgiveness.

Pluto's influence on Death suggests the need for detachment, a rite of passage, an emotionally painful transition, resurrection.

Both cards remind me of the rise of the Phoenix from the ashes, endings and new beginnings, but while Judgement's ending feels more upbeat and the rise is imminent, Death's ending is lingering and comes together with Scorpio's sting in its tail - ouch.

If both cards were present in a reading, it can suggest the transformative nature of Pluto intensified and a sense of upheaval, life being turned upside down as a result of external events or decisions being made.

If you would like to learn more about how to combine tarot with astrology, check out my Starlight Tarot Astrology Course.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

Tarot Love Readings - The Relationship Card

The Vampire Tarot - (c) Robert Place

What makes a relationship tick?

It's always fun and insightful to explore its dynamics and compatibility in tarot love readings.

Often, random cards are drawn in a spread, which is fine, but you can also learn more by working out the couple's relationship card.

For this, you need to know each person's personality card and add the numbers of each card together, which gives you the relationship card (The Fool = 22).

I demonstrate this with the personality cards of me and my ex - haha, it's a crazy fun mindfluff, but it also offers some revelations about what the heck went wrong ?

So this is me (9 - Hermit) and him (4 - Emperor), add both numbers together, which makes Death our relationship card 😱😂

Well, Death kind of says it all; a Hufflepuff Hermit (zodiac card Knight of Cups - Pisces) trying to make it work with a Slytherin Emperor (zodiac card King of Swords - Aquarius). You can literally feel the cracks forming.

However, Death also indicates that this relationship was transformational in some way.

For me it has helped shift a lot of old baggage, uncomfortable at first, but in the end one of the happiest breakups I have experienced 😃

And what do all the other Major Arcana cards mean as relationship keys?

Here are my suggestions:

1 - The Magician: The only way the Magician can come up as a relationship card is when based on a combination of the Fool (0) and the Magician (1), but because the Magician doesn't exist as a personality card (birth dates don't add up to 1), it also won't come up as a relationship card.

However, the energy of the Magician is inherent in the numbers 10 and 19, and therefore Wheel of Fortune (10) and the Sun (19) relationships have the power to master and resolve any situation that comes their way.

2 - The High Priestess: The only way the High Priestess can come up as relationship card is when combined of the Fool (0) and the High Priestess (2).

A soul connection; mutual understanding without exchanging words. There is a sense of belonging and having known each other for ever. Spiritual nurturing; but also the danger of loosing sight of reality, mixing up naivity with spiritual maturity.

3 - The Empress: a creative connection; family. Traditional roles; physical and sensual attraction are key. A sense of belonging and longevity. A successful partnership. Thrives when mutual interests include spending time in nature.

This relationship doesn't work well if it's long-distance or there are longer separations, e.g. extensive business travel.

4 - The Emperor: Strong and committed. This relationship is built on mutual aspirations and ambitions. Both can rely on each other in good as well as bad times. A power couple. Needs to avoid neglecting emotional needs, when focused too much on the business and practical side of the relationship.

5 - The Hierophant: Two people sharing the same values. Traditional, conservative, conventional. Strengthened by taking time for travel, cultural experiences, art and philosophical discussions about politics, religion etc. Avoid lack of change and intolerance.

6 - The Lovers: A constant balance of head and heart. Obstacles and difficulties are overcome with love even if the mind suggests otherwise. Deep down there is certainty that love prevails and both are committed. Opposites attract. A tendency to avoid conflict or frank discussions, which can cause anxiety and deception.

7 - The Chariot: Both people in this relationship prefer to be independent, e.g. keep their separate bank accounts, homes, etc. They walk next to each other rather than towards each other, and yet they are deeply connected. A competitive streak; enjoying sports and travel together. Too much self-reliance can cause detachment. A need to set clear boundaries and keep eyes on mutual goal and aspirations.

8 - Strength: An exciting combination of lust and passion, which won't be tamed by love and long-term commitment. Heated arguments followed by passionate reconciliation. Power struggles; taming of the shrew. Beauty and the beast. A need for reflection and giving the other space from time to time.

9 - The Hermit: Down to earth; practical; no pretence. A relationship built on honesty and trust. You are true to yourself individually and true to each other. Loyalty. An ideal business partnership working well together. Two introverts found each other, who need to ensure that the relationship keeps growing by pushing their individual comfort zones.

10 - Wheel of Fortune: A karmic relationship; two people have found each other at the right time and know they belong together despite a difficult start. A need to know your purpose as a couple, e.g. starting a family or engaging in social activism, starting a business, helping others etc. If this common purpose is unknown, then feelings of restriction and limitation can come up.

11 - Justice: Equality, fairness. Fairly give and fairly take. A slow starter turning into a strong relationship after much consideration. Harmony; pleasant togetherness. A social couple with good circle of friends. Avoid blaming the other in crisis situations, and try not to focus too much on the other's flaws.

12 - Hanged Man: Obstacles and difficulties can easily stop this relationship in its tracks. Making sacrifices or simply surrender to outside influences are often the only solution to make it work long-term. Patience. Avoid stubbornness and rigidity; an open and flexible approach is required.

13 - Death: This card doesn't necessarily mean the end is unavoidable or even in sight. It can be the opposite: lively and transformational for both. Many changes determine the flow of this relationship, e.g. house moves, jobs, family, and the need for constant re-invention and adaptability. It's intense and any resistance by one or both can indeed mean the end.

14 - Temperance: Opposites attract; making it work requires skill, but with time harmony prevails. A healing relationship. A magical mix of commitment and independence. Playful. Experimental. Finding a middle ground. Avoid pretending that all is fine when it isn't; frank discussions and conflict help to find solutions and rebalance your equilibrium.

15 - The Devil: Even though this relationship starts off based on strong mutual attraction (so much so that lust and passion can suck sanity out of both parties),  there is danger of codependence and loss of spark in the long-term. That's because this couple has made a commitment to each other, and they don't want to break it lightly. This is a positive attitude and combined with keeping love and romance fresh and adventurous, this relationship can keep thriving. Avoid power struggles and competition with each other.

16 - The Tower: Mars rules this relationship, which can be tempestuous, destructive but also liberating at the same time. There is no codependence here; two people have minds and aspirations of their own, which they are determined to pursue. One person doesn't give up their dreams only to make the other happy. Tolerance and serenity will help weather any storms.

17 - The Star: Optimism, peace and calm dominate this relationship. Drama doesn't belong here, and any crisis situation is handled with pragmatism and recognising the bigger picture of what is truly important. A strong but gentle bond. No need to get married; perhaps even no need to live together and yet nothing keeps you apart on a spiritual level. Both allow each other space and freedom.

18 - The Moon: a deeply emotional bond; often conflicting emotions, filled with an abundance of imagination and fantasy. A romantic love that may not be the ideal match when looked at in the light of day a couple of months down the line. Nothing is sensible or rational here, but love and infatuation rule in a lingering way. Avoid pull-push scenarios, i.e. leaving and coming back. This will seriously affect your mental health and self-esteem.

19 - The Sun: a glorious life force; whole-heartedness, giving love and affection to each other generously. A relationship that boosts confidence and wellbeing. Quarrels are quickly forgotten. Bringing the best out of each other. A social couple with many friends, enjoying life and fun times. Avoid egotism and self-centredness, which can put a dampener on this relationship.

20 - Judgement: The longer it lasts, the better it gets. Over time, the healing power of this relationship is revealed, having a profound effect on both. In this relationship you can let go of old wounds. A deep bond growing over time and together, this couple can achieve more than indvidually on their own. Mutual help and support. Avoid taking the other for granted. Be prepared to forgive.

21 - The World: Grounding and solid. You know where you stand with each other, accepting each other the way you are. A great foundation for a family. A feeling you have arrived and nothing can tear you apart, except when you start to feel stifled wondering, if there is more out there when contemplating the rest of your life. The antidote to this is celebrating and enjoying life together. Avoid routine turning into complacency.

Remember to take your personality cards into account when exploring your relationship card, which can give you a more insightful portrait of your relationship.

You can also use the relationship card to explore connections with challenging people in your life, e.g. parents, children or siblings to work out issues and possible solutions.

Have fun, and let me know how you get on. I'd love to hear from you💚

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

Reading Negative Cards in Positive Positions

Sometimes the messages received from the Tarot can be confusing.

For example, you want to know what your strengths are in a certain situation, and the answer you get is the Ten of Swords.

You were hoping for something encouraging and inspirational, but all you got was that disheartening card of someone lying stabbed in the back on the floor.

But let's not panic, Astrology to the rescue😄

Once you know the astrological attributions linked to the cards, you can see more than just the image.

For the Ten of Swords it's Sun in Gemini.

What does Sun in Gemini tell us about the Ten of Swords?

Positive aspects of the sun: vitality, clarity and confidence.

Positive aspects of Gemini: versatile, curious, social.

So, when exploring your strengths or asking which qualities you need to develop in order to resolve an issue successfully, you now have a few options to choose from.

Zodiac and planetary attributes can also offer more specific interpretations of the cards.

Here are some suggestions for the Ten of Swords:

an ending leads to clarity; curiosity will attract new opportunities; social interaction will increase confidence after a blow; an ending is a blessing (sun) in disguise; you have the energy to lift yourself up and recover; resilience...

Let's take a look at other negative cards:

The Tower is linked to Mars, which in turn is also the ruling planet of Aries (The Emperor).

Positive traits: courage, decisiveness, challenging, energetic, pro-active, competitive

Positive card meanings influenced by Mars:

taking drastic action to achieve a goal; having the courage to face danger (extreme sports, a fire fighter etc.); confronting an adversary; implementing a radical overhaul or self-improvement program, e.g. diet, exercise etc., ability to see new possibilities beyond the destruction...

Death is linked to Scorpio, which is commonly connected to "sex, death and taxes".

Positive traits: compassionate, intense, independent and determined. Its ruling planet Pluto suggests the ability to regenerate and overcome the unsettling process of change.

Positive card meanings influenced by Scorpio:

clearing the old to bring in the new; spiritual growth through acknowledging and tackling emotional issues; searching for deeper meaning and purpose; making sweeping changes to rejuvenate a relationship; sex therapy or an intense sexual experience...

The Five of Pentacles is linked to Mercury in Taurus

Positive aspects of Mercury: communicative, expressive, intelligent, thoughtful

Positive aspects of Taurus: disciplined, organised, reliable, steadfast, methodical, affectionate

Positive card meanings influenced by Mercury in Taurus:

being pragmatic at times of adversity; self-reliant; a thorough, hands-on approach to overcoming obstacles; willingness to work hard to achieve success; eager to create stability...

The Devil is linked to Capricorn and also to Uriel, the light bearer, one of the four arch angels.

Positive traits: down-to-earth, ambitious, hard-working, rational, resourceful and loyal. Its ruling planet Saturn also suggests responsibility, patience and an ability to strive despite adverse circumstances.

Positive card meanings influenced by Capricorn:

being disciplined at times of hardship; plodding through and not giving up; taking matters seriously; in relationships loyal and care-giving even when going through a rough patch; realistic expectations...

The Three of Swords is linked to Saturn in Libra.

Positive aspects of Saturn: disciplined, responsible, reliable, endurance

Positive aspects of Libra: fair-minded, cooperative, sincere, striving for harmony

Positive card meanings influenced by Saturn in Libra:

determination to restore harmony out of discord; alleviating anguish with an objective mind; mourning with dignity and self-composure; ability to cut your losses and move on...

At first glance it can be difficult to see the positive aspects in negative cards, especially when they are placed in positions relating to possible strengths, skills, talents, helpful qualities and inspirational guidance.

Remember that there are two sides to each card - positive and negative - and with the help of their astrological attributions you can discover them.

Why don't you give it a try with the following cards, and let me know how you get on:

The Hanged Man - Neptune

Seven of Swords - Moon in Aquarius

Eight of Swords - Jupiter in Gemini

Nine of Swords - Mars in Gemini

Ten of Wands - Saturn in Sagittarius

Five of Cups - Mars in Scorpio

If you would like to learn more about applying astrology to your tarot readings, then check out my Starlight Tarot Astrology course.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

The Symbolism of Plants In The Tarot

In the Tarot, plants serve as potent symbols, rich with meaning and intention. They stir the imagination, conjuring images, associations, and insight.

The list that follows offers symbolic suggestions for each plant, though interpretation remains a deeply personal part of every reading.

Acorn, see Oak

Apple

Sacred fruit of Aphrodite/Venus symbolising sexual desire and fertility. When sliced horizontally, its seeds resemble a pentacle.

In Celtic mythology, the apple tree is a symbol of plenty, for choice and a door into greater mysteries. It is one of the three legendary magical fruits (hazel, apple, oak).

Symbol of love, faith, generosity and gratitude. It can be found on the RWS Lovers card behind the nude female.

The snake in the apple tree links the card with the story of Adam and Eve, suggesting paradise and its forthcoming demise.

Beech

Symbol of beauty and ancient wisdom, prosperity and divination. The beech tree is a symbol for the written word; it was once used to make writing tablets.

In Celtic mythology, the beech tree is associated with all gods of wisdom and learning and the human intellect.

The wood and leaves were carried as a talisman to increase creative powers.

Birch

Symbol of new beginnings, birth, springtime, young love; renewal and cleansing; new directions and goals. A birch forest appears on the Death card of the Robin Wood deck.

Corn

Cornfields symbolise the potential for cultivation, the need for labour, attention and care in order to achieve material success.

A person standing in a cornfield suggests a down-to-earth mentality and a connection with the Earth element or its energy.

Cypress

The cypress comprises the forest in the background of the Empress in the RWS deck. It is sacred to Venus and Artemis and suggests fertility.

Also sacred to the gods of the underworld, Hades and Pluto, it can represent anything developing in darkness, e.g. the unconscious.

Evergreen

Symbolises continuous giving and support, nurture and stability. See also cypress, ivy, palm, pine.

Grain

Symbolises the cycle of life, harvest and new seed. Fertility, nourishment, creative abundance, spiritual maturity.

Found on the Empress card of the RWS deck and in the suit of Pentacles.

Grapevine

Grapes represent inspiration and truth (as a result from drinking wine, when inhibitions are released).

Also symbolising abundance, fruitfulness and achievement. The vine’s symbolic meaning in the Old Testament is as an emblem of God’s blessing on his chosen people.

Grapes appear on Crowley’s Fool suggesting ‘sweetness of life, intoxication’ (Banzhaf/Theler).

Iris

The flower represents the goddess Iris, who was the Greek messenger of the gods. She is also associated with the rainbow, which represents the pathway by which she travelled.

Both the flower and the rainbow symbolise her qualities as a divine messenger. The flower can be found on the RWS Temperance card.

Ivy

Entwining ivy is a symbol of romantic desolation; it was associated with death in the 18th century Gothic revival and a symbol of melancholy.

Ivy was an essential complement to any ruined building. Its entwining habit represents the movement of the stars and planets and the understanding of their influence on the affairs of humankind.

Ivy symbolises the Spirit, search for enlightenment, a warning (Ivy ale was a highly intoxicating medieval drink), binding and restricting, freeing and uniting. It is closely connected with the vine.

Laurel

A laurel wreath was used as a crown of victory or accomplishment for athletes, poets and musicians in ancient Greece.

It was associated with the Greek god Apollo. The Fool in the RWS deck wears a laurel wreath, which symbolises his victorious spirit.

The charioteer on the Chariot card of the RWS wears a laurel wreath and so does the victorious rider on the Six of Wands.

Lily/water lilies

Tarot of Quotes

The white lily symbolises purity, chastity, innocence and also higher spirit. The three-sided fleur-de-lis (triple lily) is a heraldic symbol of illumination.

Water lilies are the Golden dawn’s elemental symbol for water. They float on the water of the RWS Ace of Cups.

Golden lilies appear on the Emperor card of Crowley’s Thoth deck as an attribute of power.

Lotus Blossom

The lotus blossom represents the four elements: the earth from which the plant grows, the water supporting its stalk, air into which its perfume escapes and the fire of the sun, which provides energy for it to grow.

The lotus represents the soul or psyche rising from the unconscious (the bottom of its watery source) into the clarity of consciousness and enlightenment.

Lotuses feature on all the Cup cards of Crowley’s Thoth Tarot (except the Seven and the Knight) as well as the Empress (the Lotus sceptre, representing feminine creativity and life force) and the Devil (wearing a lotus garland as a sign that the bearer is ‘a child of good’ - Banzhaf/Theler).

Mushrooms

Good fortunes, longevity, immortality; also rapid growth and destruction (mushroom cloud). Can also represent restlessness and change (Robin Wood Moon card).

Myrtle

The RWS Empress wears a myrtle wreath, which is associated with female fertility, the forces of nature and also immortality. Myrtle is sacred to Venus. It was a Greek emblem of happiness, often used in marriage and childbirth rituals.

Oak

Celtic symbol for protection and strength; sacred tree of Heracles/Hercules and Jupiter/Zeus; sacred tree of Norse god Thor; acorns are symbols of fertility and spiritual growth.

The oak represents courage, endurance and the protective power of faith. In some Tarot decks the Hanged Man hangs from an oak tree.

The qualities of the suit of Pentacles is symbolised by oak leaves.

Olive Tree

A sacred tree for many cultures, it is associated with light and enlightenment as the oil was used as a lamp fuel in ancient times.

In Islamic tradition, the olive tree represents the world tree or world axis.

In Judeo-Christian tradition, a dove brought an olive branch to Noah as a message that the flood was over.

The olive tree symbolises peace, fruitfulness, purification and wisdom. A branch appears on the RWS Ace of Swords.

Palm Tree

The palm tree, with its solar-like spread of the strong leaves, was associated with victory in Roman times.

Victorious gladiators would be awarded with palm fronds due to the size and evergreen habit, which suggests longevity.

The palm tree and its leaves signify masculinity and assertiveness. A palm branch hangs from the RWS Ace of Swords.

Pine

In Greek mythology the pine tree was sacred to Artemis, the moon goddess who presided over childbirth; also associated with gods of wine like Dionysus and Bacchus.

Pine cones were used in fertility rites and the pollen was used in money spells. Pine resin was burned to clear negative energies, which could also be done by scattering pine needles around.

Its height (taller than most other trees) symbolises foresight, objectivity and overview. Also suggests nature, fertility and life force.

Pomegranate

Symbolises fertility, new possibilities, ‘new birth’ symbol; creative, receptive and feminine energy. Seen on the veil behind the RWS High Priestess.

Rose

Roses symbolise beauty and perfection; they are often associated with the pentagram because of its five-petal structure.

Roses that are clearly depicted with five petals relate to the five senses and the inner five-pointed star of the apple; in horticulture, the rose is linked with the apple, which is also a member of the rose family.

Roses in Tarot decks are mainly red or white. Red signifies passion and desire (not necessarily sexually); white roses can indicate spirit, soul and abstract thought.

A five-pointed white rose can be found on Death’s banner in the RWS deck, signifying the Mystic Rose of life.

Red roses appear on the RWS Nine of Swords as a symbol of the heart and strong emotions. The red roses on Crowley’s Star symbolise love and fertility.

Sunflower

Sunflowers are symbols of devotion and steadfastness, as their flower heads follow the sun during the day. They appear on the RWS Sun and the Queen of Wands.

Tiger Lilies

In the Seven of Cups of Crowley’s Thoth deck, the lotus blossoms, which appear on all other Cup cards of the deck, have turned into tiger lilies, dropping their poisonous nectar into the chalices symbolising ‘deceptive, sinister seduction’ (Banzhaf/Theler).

Wheat

Wheat represents the entire cycle of nature: death, rebirth, resurrection. It suggests nurturing, abundance and fertility.

Psychologically, wheat tied together symbolises the integration of inner opposites, the conscious and the unconscious.

Which plants do you notice in your tarot cards? Please share in the comments below. I'd love to hear from you💚

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

Tarot Shadow Work: Descend into the Underworld

Cosmic Faery Tarot Deck

With the dark season approaching and the spirit of Halloween in the air, it's a good time to light some candles, burn some incense, play some atmospheric music and work with the shadow cards of the Major Arcana for some serious self-exploration:

• The Hanged Man
• Death
• The Devil
• The Tower
• The Moon

The late Hajo Banzhaf (Tarot and the Journey of the Hero) assigned these cards to the Arc of the Night of the Major Arcana, the descend into the underworld, which starts with the Hanged Man and ends with the Moon.

These are not the most welcome cards when they appear in readings, but when we face them and examine our dark side (including those past experiences we'd rather forget), they can help us turn our darkness into light.

The best way to do that is through self-enquiry. Here are some questions you can ask yourself for each card:

The Hanged Man - What do I keep avoiding? Where am I stuck in my life? In what situations did/do I find it hard making decisions? What sacrifices have I made in order to make progress? What do I refuse to give up?

Death - Endings in my life that were painful. Changes that were unsettling. New beginnings that resulted from these endings/changes. What do I need to let go of now (habits, things, people...)? How can I transform anguish, loss and grief into a new sense of purpose and understanding? What transformations have I experienced in my life?

Tarot spread: 1. Me now / 2. Me a year ago - What has changed?

The Devil - What is controlling me / what am I controlling? Where do I feel trapped? How can I break free? Where am I complacent? Where am I wasting too much energy that isn't worth it? What am I obsessed about? Where have I been despondent? A taboo in my life / family / society.

The Tower - What am I angry about? When was the last time I showed my anger? What incident or situation shook my world? How have I recovered? When did I feel that my life was falling apart, and how have I rebuilt it? What has gone out of control? What have I destroyed on purpose in order to start again differently?

The Moon - When did my imagination last run wild? What are my fears / insecurities and doubts? What am I confused about? A nightmare I can remember I once had. My lunar fantasies: visions and illusions (pull a card for each). What is obscured and needs to be revealed? Where and how am I deceiving myself?

✨Make a date with your shadow and descend into the underworld with these cards✨

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

Pluto Retrograde Guidance And Journal Prompts

 

Looks like we're currently experiencing Plutonian times.

Speak of the Devil (quite literally as you will see shortly), Pluto has stationed retrograde on the 25th April in Capricorn and will turn direct again on the 4th October 2020, also in Capricorn.

Capricorn is linked to the Devil in the Tarot, and Pluto is linked to Judgement and Death (Scorpio's ruling planet). These cards already give us an idea of what we can expect over the coming months.

For more info on Pluto in the Tarot, check out my blog post HERE.

Retrograde planets often initiate a certain level of re-calibration, and Pluto is going to intensify the global transformation it already started back in January, when it  was conjunct with Saturn (linked in the Tarot to the World and ruling planet of Capricorn = the Devil!).

Pluto Retrograde can increase fear of death and also resistance to change.

The whole world is scared of Covid19, and extreme laws and restrictions (Capricorn, Devil, World) are likely to cause more suffering and loss.

On a global level, we will have to face some very inconvenient truths about existing structures and workings of society and make some drastic changes on a large scale that are likely to affect us all and future generations.

On a personal level, what can we do to weather the storm?

Without any waffle, I'm just listing themes and qualities here that we will all need to focus on and cultivate as a collective - they are all self-explanatory:

• kindness
• generosity
• mutual support
• active listening
• understanding
• cooperation
• speaking our truth
• courage
• engaging in debates
• contribute towards finding solutions
• be discerning, especially when evaluating information and motives of powerful and influential people (watch out for lies and propaganda fuelled by fear and greed)
• moral and ethical integrity
• sustainability

Here are some journaling prompts to explore the energies of Pluto retrograde in your life:

1. What change/ending/transformation am I resisting?

2. What is no longer working in my life?

3. What boundaries that I set in the past have turned into self-limitations?

4. How can I transcend these limitations?

5. What unnecessary baggage am I holding on to that needs shedding?

6. How can I stay strong during this time of great upheaval?

7. What/Who is controlling me?

8. How can I regain my independence?

9. What in my life is in the process of being birthed?

The impact of Pluto retrograde will be felt by us all for quite some time, but in times of adversity there is always potential for growth and spiritual advancement.

Striving to live our best lives by cultivating qualities as listed above will make it easier to rebuild, evolve and thrive once we have arrived on the other side.

Stay well, and speak again soon,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

Tarot and the Four Elements: Water

Just like Earth, Water is a feminine (yin) element. Its energy is flowing, cleansing and life-giving.

All life on earth originated from water; the human body contains up to 85% water (depending on height, weight, age and gender), which suggests a dominance of its energy on our bodies.

Water is the most receptive of the four elements; it can easily absorb any form of contamination from its surroundings and needs to be purified.

Due to its receptivity and flowing, formless nature, the element of Water is associated with psychic powers, dreams, divination, the subconscious as well as cleansing the spirit.

Although Water is regarded as a passive element, it can be quite forceful in nature: waterfalls, enormous ocean waves, floods can be destructive and overpowering; so can be the feelings and emotions Water is associated with.

Positive: love, nurturing, creativity, imagination, serenity, contentment, compassion, happiness, understanding.

Negative: moodiness, jealousy, hate, sadness, psychic drains, excess, addiction, illusions.

Tarot Cards

Major Arcana: The High Priestess, The Chariot, The Hanged Man, Death, The Moon

Minor Arcana: The Suit of Cups; Queens

In Tarot the element Water represents feelings and emotions; relationships, imagination, fantasy, dreams, astral worlds and the psyche, intuition. 

Cups indicate a love for pleasure, intuitive art, beauty and serenity.

Water Correspondences
Astrological signs	Cancer, Pisces, Scorpio
Atmosphere	Cold and moist
Direction	West
Moon	Waning crescent
Season	Autumn (Summer in Tarot)
Time	Dusk, twilight
Animals	Fish, seals, walrus; dragons (as serpents), dolphins and porpoises, water-dwelling snakes, dragonfly, all water creatures and sea birds
Chakra	Sacral Plexus
Colour	Blue, aquamarine, bluish-silver, blue-green, green, grey, indigo, black, shades of green; purple
Plants	Willow, lettuce, kelp, ferns, lotus, mosses, rushes, seaweed, water lilies, and all water plants
Places	Rivers, lakes, oceans, beaches, swamps, pools, springs, wells
Jungian Function	Feeling
Stones/Gems/Crystals	Moonstone, silver, pearl, Aquamarine, Lapis lazuli, coral, jade, quartz crystal, amethyst, sapphire
Spirit	Undines
Tools	Cups, chalice, cauldron
Tree	Willow

How to get in Touch with the Water Element

Next time you have a bath, feel the comfort of immersing yourself in water and the trancelike condition it invokes; where thoughts and feelings are suspended, peace and serenity taking over. Feel the water moving around your skin washing away the psychic baggage accumulated during the day.

When you go swimming, experience the water carrying you; close your eyes and float; let the water take control.

Take a walk when it rains; summer rain after a hot day can bring refreshment and a sense of purification. Watch the plants being replenished with water.

Children love water; they don’t mind getting wet. They love bath time and playing with containers in the paddling pool in summer. Try it for yourself; perhaps you notice how relaxing that can be.

If you have a garden, why not create a pond? Plant water plants and create spaces for frogs. Enjoy watching tadpoles transforming into frogs. If your pond is big enough, consider getting some fish and create a little eco-system.

Visit the seaside and enjoy the sea with all its riches: shells, crabs, pebbles. Savour the waves and the changing tides. 

Feel the water and see if you can smell the sea. Be hands on and experience the effects of the sea on you. Do you feel calm, carefree and content or perhaps lonely or sad?

Visit a lake or a river. Sit beside a stream and watch the water move. Perhaps you can see some fish. Can you look down to the ground? Is the water clear or murky? 

Feel any tension slowly leaving you, when you listen to the gurgle of water over pebbles and rocks.

Back to Elements