It’s the intricate symbolism that makes tarot cards SO popular among the users. For centuries, people have been hooked by this ancient and mystical practice. Deep symbolism that every card is full of serves as a universal language that is above all personal beliefs and cultural boundaries. In addition to being a time-tested divination tool, tarot is a therapeutic instrument, positively impacting mental well-being.
Here Comes Tarot Symbolism…
Every card in the deck is a bag of colors, symbols, shapes, and archetypes, each having a particular meaning. For example, The Fool is the symbol of a new beginning, acting spontaneously, as well as taking leaps of faith. At the same time, The Tower symbolizes transformation, sudden upheaval, and the process of breaking all existing old structures. The Sun, in turn, shows vitality, positivity, and clarity as it is. Each of these symbols represents the universal human experience and usually invites readers to explore all the emotions and thoughts under the surface.
Tarot Therapeutic Power Kicks In…
Usually considered a mystical divination tool, tarot deck holds a deeper power of introspection. It’s not just the other helper for predicting the future but a trusted instrument for personal growth and self-reflection. Every card you draw is a vast trove of symbols that encourage us to self-reflect in order to reveal everything that our subconscious mind has to hide. In other words, you don’t just receive the story from every image and symbol, but you also bring your inner aspirations, fears, and thoughts to the surface.
Tarot’s Symbolic Nature for Self-Reflection…
As you make cards part of your routine and interpret symbols, you can easily identify all of your emotional blocks. In other words, the card’s symbolism can help you identify aspects of your life that seem to be unresolved or feel stuck. Plus, one can gain clarity since the cards encourage readers to look at this or that situation from a different angle or perspective. Finally, you can get access to your subconscious insights i.e., hidden deep emotions and fears. For instance, if you draw The Hermit, it might be the signal that you or the querent should consider the need for solitude or/and introspection. The Empress, in turn, may ‘speak’ about the area of self-care and creativity that you have to focus on.
The Psychological Impact of Cards Is Obvious…
NEVER use cards as an alternative to expert mental health help! It is crucial to approach professionals ASAP if you notice any symptoms. However, your tarot deck or the cards used by experts like TarotAtlas can make your therapeutic sessions more effective in different ways we discuss below:
- You get (more) empowered. As you interpret the card’s messages, you actually take an active role in facing and understanding your challenges and potential solutions.
- You combat stress. Engaging in tarot reading sessions, you are kind of diving into the meditative mode. This, in turn, helps you to relax and focus.
- You process your (complex) emotions. If you’re on the lookout for a safe space to process and combat deep and complex emotions, the symbolic tarot deck is just what the doctor ordered. Let’s say, you’re suffering from anxiety. Use cards as a grounding ritual! Pull a card or two in order to face and explore your fears and find out how you combat them (all).
Symbolism is Linked with Archetypes in Mental Health…
As a rule, tarot symbolism aligns with the concept of archetypes offered by Carl Jung. Swiss psychologist, psychiatrist, and the founder of analytic psychology stated that universal patterns of behavior and thought are present in the collective unconscious. Such archetypes as the Wise Old Man (The Hermit), the Shadow (The Devil), and the Hero (The Chariot) are essential parts of tarot, reflecting the aspects of human consciousness. When you deal with these archetypes, you have a chance to recognize archetypes in your life in order to detect recurring behaviors or/and patterns. Plus, dealing with challenging symbols like The Hanged Man and Death helps one learn to accept transformations and changes.
Practical Ways to Use Tarot Cards to Boost Mental Health…
First of all, you can do this by pulling cards on a daily basis. For example, when you draw one card every morning and think of the symbolism hidden behind each image, you have a trusted guide for your upcoming day. At the same time, you can use your deck to inspire journal entries. Check out the imagery of the card that you pull and write what kind of emotions it evokes deep inside of you. Concentrate on one card as you meditate. Try to understand the deeper meaning and significance of it. Explore in what way it is related to your life. Finally, get in touch with a certified therapist who uses tarot cards as part of therapeutic sessions to explore your experience and emotions at a deeper level.
Being Part of a Supportive Community is Part of Therapy…
When you take part in tarot communities (both online and offline), you feel like you actually belong there and are connected to every member of the team. This kind of communication with like-minded individuals provides you with a unique and highly supportive environment where you can find guidance and guide, participate in discussions, and share experiences. All this in tandem has a 100% positive impact on your mental health.
An Open Mind Is Essential…
When you perform a tarot reading session with a focus on mental health aspects, approaching cards critically and with an open mind is a must. Make sure to acknowledge both negative and positive aspects, as well as emphasize a well-balanced interpretation of all tarot card meanings in order to stay away from any sort of stress that may be caused even by minor misinterpretation(s).
Final Words
As you can see, the role of symbolism in the tarot cards goes far beyond the deck itself, providing you with options to self-discover and boost your mental health. When you learn and deal with the archetypes and symbols in cards, you have a unique opportunity to understand what you feel, see new perspectives, as well as get empowered in your personal, career, love, or any other journey. While cards can’t be the substitute for professional mental health assistance, you can use the symbolic language of the cards as a powerful helper by your side, who is ready 24/7 to help you navigate life and stay sane.
