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Lose Weight The Right Way

2009-09-08T04:35:00.004-05:00

Losing weight is never easy. Keeping it off is even harder. You can lose weight by dieting but you can only keep it off if your change your way of thinking and eating-permanently. Let's admit it- everyone tries to lose weight at some point in their life. I have. Many, many times! From those many attempts I have learned one crucially important thing: If you want to lose weight, dieting won't do it. What diets have you tried? The cabbage soup diet, The South Beach Diet, The Adkins Diet, Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, low carb diets, low fat diets, liquid diets, diet pills, or starvation? Any of these diets, and many others I can't think of right now, will help you lose weight. However, they will not help you keep the weight off unless you follow the diet for the rest of your life. Only one "diet" will help you lose weight and keep it off. That is the diet where you change the way you eat and live forever. There are many simple tricks and strategies I have learned over the years to do just that-lose weight and keep it off.

Know what to eat.
The USDA has established the Food Pyramid to help us with what we should be eating. The five basic food groups are now the six basic food groups. The general rule of thumb is that most of the food we eat should come from the outer perimeters of the grocery store and we should stay away from the inner aisles. The outer perimeters contain the meat, dairy, fruit and vegetables. The inner aisles are full of junk.

Eat fresh.
If it comes in a box or a can, you probably should not eat it. All of these foods come with additives and preservatives that are simply not good for you.

Put down the fork.

What I mean is 'are you really hungry'? Is your stomach growling or cramping or are you nauseated? Or are you just bored or sad or anxious? Most people eat not because they are hungry but because it's a habit or they are letting their emotions get the best of them.

Less is more.
Cut your portions and don't go back for seconds. Our body, namely our stomachs grow accustom to eating large portions because the more food put into the stomach the more the stomach stretches. Surprisingly, a portion is usually about the size of the palm of your hand.

Eat slow.

The slower you eat, the less food you will consume. Why you say? Because, it takes about 20 minutes for your brain to say "I'm full". If you scarf your food down then your stomach won't send the signal to your brain in time that says "Stop!" and you will end up feeling bloated and miserable.

Lay off the soda.
Do you realize how much sugar is in those things? That's sugar you could definitely do without. Besides, have you seen what a cola can do to rust and corrosion? It's like battery acid. Your stomach will thank you.

Don't be lazy.
Move more. Take the stairs. Park farther away from the store or work. Turn off the tv and go for a walk. Spend more time walking and less time driving. Mow the lawn. rake the leaves. Get involved in community activities or a sport. Be more active!

Ask for help.

Tell your friends and family your trying to lose weight. A little encouragement goes a long way.

Skip the chips.

Eat more fruits and vegetables and less potato chips and candy bars. So you say your don't like fruit and vegetables. There has got to be at least one or two fruits or vegetables you could eat. Experiment. Try something new. You never know. Your new favorite food could come in the form of a fruit or vegetable.

Water, water, water.
It's just good for the body. You should drink 8-10 glasses a day. But, hey, one is better than none.

You can still eat out.
Eat healthy when eating out. Just make better choices. Choose grilled instead of fried. Opt for whole wheat or whole grain. Eat half and save the rest for later. Choose fruit or vegetables instead of potatoes or fatty sides. It's o.k. to ask for alternatives.

Don't eat the whole thing.
If you order dessert, share it with someone. Or, even better, take only two bites. The first bite is to taste and the second bite is to savor. That's all you really need. What you don't need is all those calories.

No gravy, please.
Fat and oils you could do without. Leave off the gravy, butter, oils, and dressings. Or, at least, use them sparingly. There is a lot of fat and calories in those that you don't need.

Eat more but less.
Eat several (5-7) smaller meals throughout the day. You be less likely to get hungry because your stomach will have food in it more often. These meals should be small, like a few carrot and celery sticks, half a sandwich, tuna on lettuce, or an apple. It's not that hard to do. Keep snacks in your purse or your desk or briefcase or whatever. Just keep them handy and grab one every few hours.

Read the label.
Learning to read nutrition labels is probably the best thing you can do to help yourself lose weight and eat healthy. Find out how much fat, calories, and sugars are in the foods you are eating.

Go low fat.
Switch to low fat, no fat, reduced fat foods. Many foods (cheese, milk, sour cream, even potato chips) have lower fat alternatives.

Talk to your doctor.

You should always talk to your doctor before changing your diet drastically. First of all, you need to know if your healthy enough to diet. Second, your doctor can be very helpful in your quest to lose weight.

Stay off the scale.
Don't weigh yourself every day. You're just setting yourself up for disappointment. In the first 1-2 weeks you are going to lose a lot of water weight, not fat weight. Plus, you may gain a pound here and there due to water weight.

Don't deprive yourself.
It's o.k. to have that brownie or cupcake every once in a while. If you deprive yourself of sweets altogether, you are just setting yourself up for failure. Just don't overdo it. Have a dessert or salty snack occasionally, not every day.

Lastly, don't be so hard on yourself. If at first you don't succeed, try and try again. Good luck!

Learn the Tarot (The Minor Arcana-The Suit of Swords)

2009-09-07T15:26:00.005-05:00

MINOR ARCANA

The Minor Arcana consists for four suits, each with 14 cards. The Minor Arcana reflect the day-to-day activities in our lives.

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SUIT OF SWORDS

Ace of Swords

Description
The barren, mountainous landscape below the sword reflects the often cold nature of intellect.

Meanings
The start of conflict or battle, cut to the chase, daybreak, new idea, seeing the light, first perception of the conscious mind, change, inspiration, original thinking, creative vision, discovery, force of life, moment of birth, cutting edge, pristine knowledge, illumination, transformation, communication, precision, raw power of the mind, free from restraint, cut through ignorance, first step, open mind, constructive power, fate, intuition, illumination, origin, enlightenment, progress, courage, power, keen intellect, glimmer of understanding, force of will, clarity, integrity.
Strength, achievement, honest and ethics, judgment, self determination, championing causes, breakthrough, entrance of the knight on a white horse, release, new freedom, lifting of restraint, a beginning, breath of life, vitality, universal conscious, expansiveness, mind over matter, success, conquest, determination, triumph, determined, leadership, clear purpose, logic, reason, law, good judgment, decisiveness, center of attention, charisma, sexual vigor, fiery, cut away what's not needed , identify long term goals, dispelling illusions, lighting the dark places.
The Ace of Swords has the power of the King of Swords. The determination of the King is thus transferred. All that is endeavored will meet with success. Someone is going to express an interest in the work that you do, or have done...they could also express an interest in YOU. Conditions around the home front will be very tense and communication taut because everyone will be under some kind of pressure...so much so, that you will want to pack your bags and never return.
The Ace of Swords is often surgery or an injection, or the need to see a specialist. Clear thinking, clear the air, start at ground zero...that sort of thing. Think for yourself.
The Aces of all suits typically represent new beginnings or the inspiration of a new idea or feeling. The Ace of Swords augurs a new understanding of some issue that has been of concern, or the dawning of a new world view in the broader sense. This card indicates the eruption of a new point of view, the inspiration of discovery or intellectual accomplishment. If you encounter this card in a reading, there is an indication that your intellectual life is either receiving too much or too little attention. Though there is great value in the inspiration and power of the mind, intellect must be tempered by compassion and spirit for its true value to be manifested. The two-edged sword cuts deeply in either direction, and a fine line must be walked to achieve the balance necessary for a healthy life. The Ace of Swords is a card of great power and is thus a sign that temperance may be necessary.
In readings, the Ace of Swords shows that a seed of clear understanding has been planted in your life although you may not yet recognize it. When the seed sprouts, it could take almost any form. Inside, it might be a compelling idea, desire for the truth, call to justice, or a need to be honest. Outside, it could be an offer, gift, opportunity, encounter or synchronistic event. Sometimes this Ace stands for a challenge that will test you in some way. Life never goes smoothly for long. Sooner or later a hurdle shows up, and the Ace of Swords can tell you when one is coming. This card is also a reminder to you to face your challenge, whatever it is, with courage, honesty and a firm resolve. In every challenge, there is opportunity. When you see the Ace of Swords, examine your life to see how its clean, sharp energy could work for you. Think about your problem objectively. Look for situations that are unjust or confusing and resolve to set them right. Above all else, commit to being honest and ethical. This card tells you that you do have the inner resources to overcome all obstacles and find the truth of your situation. That is the promise of the Ace of Swords.
Triumph. You need to identify the long-term goals and major principles that will enable you to make your life a statement of your unique personality. Open up a channel to sacred wisdom. Triumph over adversity and ignorance.
Mind clear, mental power, clarity, great strength and powerful insight, victory, sense of personal freedom. A powerful relationship which could be good or bad for Querent. Force. Things are changing for the good. With courage and intellect, nothing can stand in your way. Success from "nowhere".
The beginning of a conquest or victory. The birth of a child who could be a valiant leader. The ability to love and hate.

Reversed
Willfulness, bully, pushy, powerlessness, helpless, hopeless, victimized, threatened, insurmountable problems, ignorance, confused, mental constraint, blocked, prejudice, tyranny, deliberate lie, verbal outburst, embarrassment, self destruction, disaster, obstacle, rejection.
Extreme feelings regarding current situation and others surrounding you. Beware of trying to use too much power to gain an end.

Two of Swords

Description
The Two of Swords depicts a young, blindfolded woman who holds a long sword in each hand. She is sitting before a sea filled with rocks and crags which are obstacles to clear passage for ships.
In the Rider Tarot, the two shows a woman in a grey gown sitting on a grey bench in front of an ocean beach with rocks in the water. She is blindfolded and holds two crossed swords, point upwards. The moon in the sky is waxing.
The woman is blindfolded, showing that she is confused about her situation. She cannot see the problem or the solution clearly. The swords are perfectly balanced, showing a balanced and stable mind. The water signifies emotions, and the rocks show tension. One of the divinatory meanings of this card is tension in a relationship, needing a cool head to solve the problem. A need to look at both sides of the situation. The waxing moon shows a new beginning arising out of the solutions found for this problem. The preponderance of grey shows a need to be neutral, and to look at both sides of the situation. The balanced crossed swords signify the same thing. Crossed swords, in Native symbology, is a symbol of truce. A truce needs to be called, and the problem needs to be resolved using logic (the suit of swords deals with logic and the use of the intellect). Both sides of the situation need to be addressed.

Meanings
This is a card of choice, of the difficulty of indecision. The woman in this card is intentionally blinding herself in avoidance of a very difficult choice which must be made. Her avoidance brings her what appears to be a certain peace of mind, for she is very calm and seems somewhat relaxed despite the difficulty of her situation. Occasionally when we are face with difficult choices we attempt to hide from them and pretend to ourselves and others that if we ignore them long enough they will go away of their own accord. However, the decision will not leave us simply by our willing it to depart; the attempt to play at ignorance is not bliss. Our conscience will eventually force us into facing our refusal to deal directly with the situation.
If you encounter the Two of Swords in a reading, there is the general indication that you are faced with a decision and that perhaps you are in a state of denial about the importance of your choice. Life's decisions are frequently quite difficult and raise the possibility of painful consequences, yet not to decide at all is a decision in itself. We must "take the bull by the horns" and make our decisions with our best intentions, fully aware of the possible consequences. The avoidance will ultimately only lead to a greater conflict in the end.
Balance. You need to take a break from your usual way of thinking, seeing and doing to consider alternative ideas and viewpoints. Rest and relaxation are important now. Be diplomatic. Compromise or let things stand as they are.
On the two of Swords, we see a young woman who has put a barrier of swords across her heart. Her rigid posture tells us of her struggle to keep her feelings under control. Sometimes we are fending off any approach from the outside. "Nothing comes in, and nothing goes out." The Two of Swords is about the barriers we put up between ourselves and others and those we create within ourselves. Internally, we block off emotions and refuse to feel them. We avoid looking at the truth and pretend that everything's OK. We think one way, but feel another. In countless ways, we divide off parts of ourselves and try to maintain them even when we know they need to be reconciled. Outwardly, we have an armistice of sorts. The irresolute, undecided situation is a result of the power-struggle being at a par. What we need today is a reconciliation, both internally and externally. Accept the truth about yourself or the situation. What are you really feeling? Are you resisting tender feelings because you might be hurt? Are you furious even though you're smiling? What are you refusing to look at?
Notice the blindfold on this woman. She can't look at the truth or even acknowledge that there is trouble. The most common barrier is a closed heart. When we cut ourselves off emotionally, we sever the connection that allows our love to flow outward. Sometimes this action is necessary, but it always comes at a great price. Every time we close off our heart, we find it more difficult to open again. Another barrier between people is a deadlocked situation. When two parties are set in their positions - cut off from each other - there is a stalemate. To break it, the "opponents" must come out from behind their swords and listen to each other. The lesson of the Two of Swords is that barriers are not the answer. We must stay open if we are to find peace and wholeness. Well-balanced judgement and action is called for.
The Two of Swords represents the contest which is in stalemate. There will be no loser or winner. The situation may represent the coming to terms with situations and compromises being made. In any case, the peace is once again achieved. Want to move ahead without restriction, and want a lover or romance. Expect a surprise in your business and personal affairs. The past is on its way out and a new element is about to emerge that will make the old way obsolete.
There is a need for well balanced emotions. A stalemate in one's affairs. Temporary truce in family quarrel. The querent is seeking direction and must be impartial.
An alliance, a favorable friendship/mutual interest, suspending judgment, making peace, a choice made, a good time to resolve any outstanding differences. An end to pain (physically and emotionally), end to quarrels. Balance. Friendship during adversity. A decision has to be made logically. A balance between equally matched opponents. A duel. Blocked emotions. Tension. Holding in emotions. Defensiveness.

Reversed
Release, movement in ones affairs. But in wrong direction. Lies, treachery, and dishonor are evident.

Three of Swords

Description
The Three of Swords is a very simply illustrated card with a very difficult message. A heart, suspended in the air, is entirely pierced by Three swords. The sky is heavily clouded and rain pours down violently.

Meanings
Absence. Sorrow. Disappointment. Strife. Removal. Dispersion. Diversion. Opposition. Separation. Delay. Betrayal. Abandonment. Rejection. A reversal of fortune.
You need to get in touch with pain and sorrow. Denying that they exist leads to loss, hostility and disease. Though life seems meaningless, recovery can occur. It takes faith, self-love, forgiveness and time. Count your blessings.
You open the door to find your partner in the arms of someone else. You overhear your best-friend laughing at you behind your back. You find out your business partner has been cheating you for years. All of a sudden your world is turned upside-down. You're stunned, disbelieving and finally heartbroken. The image on the Three of Swords clearly describes this sudden pain. You literally feel as if someone has taken a sharp object and jabbed it through your heart. Even something as minor as a snippy remark can feel this way. Notice how this contains just a heart and Three swords. When your heart is breaking, you feel as if that is all you are - an open wound.
In readings, the Three of Swords often represents the nasty little curve balls that life can throw sometimes. These hurts are painful because they hit you when you least expect them. If you have drawn this card, you may know what it refers to, but, if not, the Three of Swords is a valuable warning. It is likely there is something amiss in your life that you are unaware of or unwilling to acknowledge. Curve balls hit us when we're looking the other way. Examine your situation carefully. Talk to the people in your life. Don't take anything for granted. Listen to your inner voice; it will help you locate the problem.
It is also possible that you are contemplating hurting someone else. With this card it is important to remember that each of us is capable of cruelty. We're all human, and we all make mistakes, sometimes serious ones. In the end, all we can do is trust in the goodness of life and try to live up to that ideal. When you slip, forgive yourself, and try to forgive others in turn, but, even better, head off trouble before it arrives.
This card practically speaks for itself; it is a card of loss and difficulty, of sacrifice and broken relationships. It follows upon the difficult decision required in the Two of Swords, where we are avoiding the necessity of making a tough choice. In the Three of Swords, the choice has been made, and we are now experiencing the consequences of our action. Often our choices involve choosing one good over another, or one evil over another, and thus when we've finally made our decision we are still left with the pain of losing the option we have not chosen. Frequently, however, the pain of losing something we once valued (such as a "comfortable" relationship in which we are no longer growing) is necessary in order to prepare us for a more fulfilling experience in the future.
The Three of Swords indicates that the situation may become mournful due to absence or removal of something that is valued. The coming period will be full of opposition and delays. You want your lover to come back; or you have run out of hope or stamina and need to see results before you can get out of the doldrums or start some thing new. Abortive attempts or delays are in your favor. New ideas or actions will replace old ones, and something better will be established that could not have happened otherwise.
The Three of Swords is a painful card, it gives that "twang" in your heart: loss, sorrow, mourning that loss. You know something painful has happened or surfaced from the past and that it needs to be cleansed. This needs being taken care of before you can go on. It is no use starting on new projects.
Whilst mourning your loss or feeling your loss, you can release yourself. It often indicates a lot of tears, which are all part of the cleansing process. Tears are purification. There is no other way than move through it, then you can let go. In this way it is in a odd way a "fruitful" card as it allows you to move on.
It may be that the emotions are bigger or stronger than the actual fact/cause itself. It is the coming to terms with it that takes precedence. It also shows the person seeing nothing else in their life besides this loss.
Sorrow, jealousy (unstable ground from beginning) reshape negative thinking. Disruptions. Heartache, ending of a relationship. Possibly a Three-way relationship where someone gets hurt. Acceptance of loss.

Reversed
Someone not willing to face the loss, and thus prolonging the pain. Denial of what is happening, so they need to turn the card around and deal with it.

Four of Swords

Description
The Four of Swords depicts the effigy of a knight lying upon a tomb. His hands are clasped in the position of prayer and the tomb is clearly inside a church. The stained glass behind the statue depicts a woman and child together, and Three swords hang from the wall behind the tomb in addition to the one affixed to the side of the bier.

Meanings
Seclusion. You need seclusion to deal properly with your situation. Retreat from pain, conflict and distractions, and rid yourself of stress and anxiety. Ground and re-charge yourself. Look inward for a real change. Meditate daily. You can!
This card, contrary to what might be its initial indication, is not a card of death. Rather, it is a card of solitude and the need to experience time apart from others to gather one's thoughts and feelings. Following upon the painful image of the Three of Swords, the Four of Swords indicates our need to spend time alone to reevaluate our lives and situations. Solitude, although often difficult to bear, is necessary for us to be able to "recharge our batteries" and rejuvenate our spirits. Despite the fact that we often desire to get out into the world and interact with others to get our minds off our troubles, sometimes it is more beneficial to us to find a place apart and spend a little time by ourselves. This solitary experience always bears fruit in an experience of greater inner strength and confidence. If we are able to face ourselves directly and not run away from our difficulties we will ultimately become more alive and more aware of the good in our lives, and we will develop the inner strength necessary to cope more readily in the future.
The Swords cards all stand for trials of some kind, but the four suggests feelings of peace and stillness. Why is this card different? Because it represents the challenge to be quiet! Sometimes resting and doing nothing is the ultimate challenge. Activity can be a habit that is very difficult to break. There is always so much to do, and modern society beguiles us with its attractions and distractions. The result is we forget to stop and be still. In readings, the Four of Swords is often a sign that you need to slow down and get some rest. If you are recovering from an illness, allow yourself quiet time to heal. Even if you feel completely healthy, you are risking getting sick if you don't take a break.
The Four of Swords also represents taking the time to think things over without hurry. It is important to step back and gain perspective. This is especially true when you are facing an ordeal or big event. You need quiet preparation time to gather your strength and center your energy. Picture an Olympic diver on the high board. He doesn't climb the ladder and then dash out. He stops, motionless as he readies himself for the burst of activity to come. This is the only way to bring the best to our endeavors. Sometimes the Four of Swords implies that you are or could be shifting focus from the external to the internal. When we are silent, we can more easily go within. The knight in the picture appears to be praying or meditating deeply. Actually, he appears to be dead! For those who are addicted to activity, rest and quiet can seem like death, but that is certainly not the case. Stillness holds its own rewards, but they must be recognized and sought.
The Four of Swords indicates a time when you can relax. Some actions may be abandoned during your retreat from the situation. The retreat maybe necessary to regroup your resources and conserve your energy. Your work environment will be very unpleasant due to tension you can cut with a knife. You will want to help or make amends with your family, but are at the end of your rope. This could also indicate a death if other cards or categories support it.
Getting away from the situation, or even escaping. Could be that by making it totally different, the artist is emphasizing that sometimes, in order to gain perspective on a situation, we need to get into a completely different "place" mentally.
This card represents the negotiating mind, the conflict/resolution mind, or the meditating mind. In any kind of negotiation, one must be open to staying in balance and non-positional. The truce-making process is a four fold process that's experienced on all four levels of consciousness, mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical. Truce is an opportunity to move through conflictual issues. In order for conflict resolution to be successful, there are four peaceful principles that come from native tradition which is referred to as the four-fold way. In order for truce to be truly experienced, one must show up, pay attention, tell the truth, and not be attached to the outcome. The results of this is renewal and regeneration. This usually means that in the next four weeks, or next four months, there will be an opportunity for truce making or conflict resolution or negotiation of important issues or with important people in your life.
Time for resting and retreat. There will soon be a change back to the active life. Solitude and quiet. Need to plan and think.
Rest, recovery, working on a problem. Renewal through truce. Hospitals and people who work in hospitals. End to conflict. Recuperation. A need to retreat from troubles. A peaceful interlude. Preparation. Withdrawal, even for the purpose of recovery, can shut a person off from the world, creating a kind of spell only outside energy can break.

Reversed
Renewed activity. Caution to use discretion in all one's dealings. May indicate social unrest, perhaps a short illness. or temporary financial problems. minor misfortunes may occur.

Five of Swords

Description
The primary figure in this card is a young man with a look of contempt on his face as he stares at his conquered enemies. He possesses five swords, most of which he has obviously taken from the other characters in the card. The other two figures walk away from him slowly, with an obvious sense of sadness and loss.

Meanings
Failure, defeat, degradation. or conquest by unfair means. Cowardliness, cruelty, malice, empty victory. Tragic situation mourning.
The Five of Swords represents conquest. If you have been aggressive in your struggles, perhaps you will soon accomplish your objectives. If you have been passive, however, your interests may be the ones which give in to the wishes of the opposing force. You will feel that there are more obstacles ahead, and won't want to face the ordeal you know you must if you are to have what you want or the way you want it. You're in for a struggle and there is more work or problems ahead than you're aware of now.
Things will not go as well as they should, and you will have conflicts or clashes of will with others; or people in business will infuriate you. A relative will do a favor for you or give you something you want. Or, if there is a question concerning a medical test, the outcome will be favorable.
The Five of Swords is a card representing ambition in the negative sense. Too much ambition without regard to the consequences to oneself or others results ultimately in a situation of loss for everyone. You, the seeker coming to the Tarot for understanding, may be represented either by the callous winner or the dejected losers. In any case a negative connotation is encountered. If your focus is solely on winning your goals at any cost, you will eventually discover to your own dismay that the price of winning may not have been worth the reward.
The Five of Swords is about self-interest. We are told to be self-sacrificing, yet we resist. How we can ignore our own concerns and still survive? This dilemma comes from our definition of self. If we view our self as our personality/body, our interests become those that relate to that self. Do I have enough to eat? Am I happy? Do I have all I want? We may expand our concern to those we love, but, then, how can we stop with them? We are connected to everyone in the long run. In truth, our self is the world. What we do to that world, we do to ourselves. This understanding is so basic, but so infuriatingly easy to forget day-to-day.
In readings, the Five of Swords can mean that you or someone else is forgetting this larger view of self. You are defining your interests too narrowly. If you try to get ahead in isolation, your actions will come back to haunt you later, one way or the other. Sometimes this card implies a need to put your own interests first. If you are being abused or taken advantage of, you must get free. If you are worn out by demands, take care of yourself. If it is your turn, step forward and claim your due. Just be aware that if you hurt others in the process, your victory will not feel complete.
The Five of Swords also represents hostility - from a crossword to warfare. When the cords that bind us are broken, we experience discord. This card can signify dishonors that are fairly open. Cheats, lies, tricks, deceits, even crimes. You may be on the receiving end, or be the perpetrator. Either way, hold to a larger view of who you are. Find the solution that is best for everyone, including yourself.
This card shows a gloating and vindictive enemy taking the swords used in battle as the spoils of his victory. It often relates to a betrayal or sneak attack by someone the client trusts and does not suspect to be his enemy. It can refer to an unfaithful lover or a jealous person who sabotages the client behind his back. This card can also relate to vicious gossip and slander.
When next to cards relating to the past such as the Five of Cups or the Six of Cups, it can mean the client still resents some slight he needs to forgive.
Since this can be a card of treachery, examine the court cards in the spread carefully for a clue as to who is working against him. Warn the client that he must be very careful whom he trusts in the near future because his reputation could be hurt by gossip. Tell him that the offending person may be someone he trusts and would not consider a jealous enemy. This could even refer to a past enemy who resurfaces. Advise the client to prepare himself, so that he can minimize the resentment such an attack might provoke.
Defeat. You need to learn about surrender and defeat. The time of defeat is the best time to sow the seeds of future successes. You may have gotten what you wanted but it did not satisfy you. Be careful what you wish for.
Smug and self-assured, the Five of Swords likes to stand out in a crowd. He probably is a very sharp dresser - at least when he thinks anyone might be looking. His hair may not stay as neat as his clothes, though, getting a little rumpled as the day wears on.

Reversed
Still a chance of loss or defeat but to a lesser degree. Beware of pride. An enemy will be overcome but will still come out a winner.
The client will be cleared and vindicated of any misunderstanding or gossip. The enemy will be revealed as a vicious troublemaker and no harm will come to the client. This can also refer to the client forgiving past wrongs.

Six of Swords

Description
The Six of Swords appears to project a somewhat sad, melancholy feeling. However, there are both positive and negative aspects to this card, like any other card in the Tarot deck. The card depicts a woman and a young child being ferried across a body of water toward a land just in the distance. Is the ferryman the woman's husband or simply a hired hand? In any case, the woman's head is covered, indicating sadness or loss as she moves away from something in her past. The water to the right of the boat is turbulent, but the water to the left and near the land to which they are journeying is calm and steady. Although there is an indication of change or loss in this card, and therefore a sense of "moving away" from something, there is also a sense of "moving toward" a new life. The waters in the distance are calm, and we are moving away from turmoil and conflict toward peace and tranquillity.
At one point in The Pilgrim's Progress, the hero Christian (who is also on a Fool's Journey) becomes mired in the Slough of Despond. He struggles for a time until drawn out by Help. Help tells him that "...many fears, and doubts, and discouraging apprehensions...settle in this place. And this is the reason of the badness of this ground." The Slough of Despond is a good name for the Six of Swords. In this bog, we feel a kind of malaise. We exist, but are not fully alive.

Meanings
There are times when we are forced to let go of something to which we may have been attached, and the process of letting go is frequently quite difficult. However, the sadness of the "loss" will ultimately be replaced by greater clarity, the calmness of the water in the distance, which will bring about a new understanding and a new acceptance of the changes in our lives. Often when we experience what seems to be sadness or loss we are actually only experiencing the "birth pangs" of a brighter future and a more peaceful experience of life.
The Six of Swords represents the dull, listless state that can come over us from time to time. When we feel this way, we don't even want to get out of bed. In readings, the Six of Swords usually indicates a period of mild depression. Nothing is seriously wrong, but nothing is really right either. You're getting by, but not thriving. In the picture the woman in the boat is wrapped in a cloak. She is cut off from her surroundings and oblivious to her fellow travelers. Life can seem this way when we feel the blues.
The Six of Swords can also represent a more serious condition. After the first shock of a psychological blow, we can enter a state of numbness. In this aftermath time, we feel lost and disconnected. As in the picture, the flow of life carries us along, but we care not how or why. Some people see the Six of Swords as hopeful. The travelers in the boat are going somewhere. Perhaps their journey will take them to new, more uplifting place? By its very nature, the mood of the Six of Swords can sap your will and desire. When you feel yourself caught in a Slough of Despond, even if only a minor one, follow Christian's example. Seek the Help you need - and the way out - in what ever form it presents itself. Know also that this, too, will pass.
The Six of Swords may be a time of peace and relaxation after a long time of struggle. There could be a journey involved. It will be necessary to apply all your energy toward the situation to get to this point in time. Problems with relationships, partnerships or personal property and want them to be resolved. The first step in correcting a problem is to acknowledge the fact that you have veered off your course, or are moving in the wrong direction and that recognition is enough to stop the momentum from continuing.
Passage. You need to realize that you are now in a much better position in life. You endured a difficult transition and are now more able to deal with what may come. Change your beliefs about yourself. A trip will do you much good.
Journey, need for objectivity, moving away mentally or physically to view problems. Coming out of a difficult experience, cannot dwell on the past. "The load is light" - problems become more acceptable, easier to carry. Functioning in a difficult situation without attacking the problems. Travel. Movement away from danger. Travel in company. Being with others in same circumstances. Immediate problems to be solved. A positive direction to go in. Fleeing to safety.

Reversed
No immediate way out of present difficulties. A planned trip is postponed. You will stay where you are.

Seven of Swords

Description
The Seven of Swords depicts a man escaping from a military camp with a bundle of five swords in his arms. Two other swords remain planted in the ground just behind him. His expression exhibits a sense of over-confidence and mocking, as though he felt absolutely sure of his success. In the distance a small group of soldiers can be seen to the left of the thief, one of them holds a sword upraised.
The Seven of Swords is tied to the Five of Swords because both cards involve separation from others. On the seven a man is tiptoeing away from society (the colorful pavilions). He's taken some swords and seems rather pleased with his successful heist. He gives the impression of having secret, solitary plans.

Meanings
This card is a card of deception and betrayal. The thief is insolent in the confidence of his success, yet the soldiers in the distance may be well aware of his actions. In his overbearing self-assurance the thief may be caught simply because he was not careful enough. This card indicates the difficulty in life of trying to "get away with something." Often when we do something in secret, thinking we are safe and undiscovered, something goes awry and our secret is revealed to our embarrassment. The card therefore augurs caution and circumspection when attempting to use cunning to gain an advantage. There is no question that there are times in life when it is necessary to act shrewdly or do something in secret, yet it is these times when our conscience must be particularly active. In the long run, deception does not produce the reward we desired and may in fact cause much damage to our relationships and reputation.
If you encounter the Seven of Swords in a reading, it is an indication that caution and wisdom are necessary in the face of a temptation to achieve gain by dubious means.
This card sometimes represents the lone-wolf style - the desire to run lone and free. In films, the lone-wolf hero always acts totally on his own. He discovers, investigates and solves every problem using only his own wits and resources. He's successful because he ignores the fumbling efforts of ordinary people. At times you feel that you will be more effective and comfortable on your own. This approach is useful when you need to bypass an ineffectual group or assert your independence, but it can also be troubling. We cannot be happy and productive for long without some commitment to others. If you feel inclined to act alone, be sure this isolation is really working for you. Take a good look at what you're doing today, because it may show you in what way a false sense of self-assurance, self-conceit, even high handedness might be detrimental to the relationship(s) you have.
The Seven of Swords is a new beginning. You will have confidence in yourself and your abilities. This will permit you to advance your interests without being afraid of failure.
You will want to get away from your work but it will keep pulling you back. You may struggle, argue or sometimes be at odds with your family; but deep down, you love them very much and will have their welfare at heart.
The Seven of Swords can also indicate a hidden dishonor - a choice you or another has made that does not do justice to the highest. We all make wrong choices that we want to hide. Some of these are minor, some serious. Your inner voice will tell you when this is happening. When you see the Seven of Swords, take a good look at what you're doing because hidden dishonors will eat away at your happiness and self-respect.
Sometimes the Seven of Swords means that you are running from something - commitment, responsibility, hard work, love. You may be procrastinating, letting problems slip because you don't want to deal with them. Sometimes we just have to face what has to be faced. The Seven of Swords lets you know when you might be making things worse by running away.
An unwise attempt to take what is not yours. Betrayal of confidence. Plan might fail. Fleeing from your wrongs.
Possibilities, still work to be done, you may feel on verge of defeat, correct any mistakes (past) and continue. Favorable outcomes still possible. Otherwise, cut losses, leave situation for new possibilities. Avoiding confrontation, sneaking around, preparation, collecting knowledge. An unreliable person involved. Self-reliance. Steeling the enemy's weapons. See other cards to assess whether this should be a job to be accomplished alone, or with aid of other people. Hiding ones plans or intentions. Dishonesty. Direction confrontation will not work. Be cunning. Sacrifice in order to succeed. Efforts may not be whole-hearted. Escaping undetected. An impulsive act, when a careful plan is required. taking the sting out of the opponent's tail. Debating whether or not interference is needed, from an outside source, or from yourself.
Opposition. You need to evaluate the opposition you are offering or encountering. Be logical, persistent and try not to resort to deceit and trickery. See if any of your troubles are self-created. Eliminate your most negative behavior patterns.

Reversed
The querent brings more to the situation than is required. A thief will return what was stolen from you. Possible wish fulfilled.

Eight of Swords

Description
The Eight of Swords is an image of a woman blindfolded and surrounded by eight swords stuck in the ground, there is water in the background. Behind her is a castle on a cliff.
Eight of Swords shows a woman (blindfolded) and bound, with swords, not surrounding her, but lined up behind her. Its swords and air... therefore "mental stuff", in fact, her feet do not touch the water (emotions), so to me this indicates that the feeling of being restricted is based on an intellectual motive and not emotional. There is a path cleared before her, so there is a way out of the situation, but at this time being blind folded and everything, she just can't see the way out! The sky is dark with lots of clouds (again, an indication of the state of mind), yet, the blue sky can be seen in the distance, and the rays of sunlight are peering through a gap in the clouds. So there is hope, and the clouded mind is only a temporary state, a momentary situation.
Eight is about power. In this case she feels powerless. She's wearing white which symbolises purity of intention, yet the robes are torn. Perhaps her intentions need re-examining. The cord which binds her is red, which symbolises power - who's power is being misused to put her in that situation? Her own?
A woman is exiled from her home, tied up, blindfolded, and surrounded by swords which act as a kind of prison or enclosure. She stands in the midst of a barren, watery wasteland far from the town or castle in the distance. The sky is gray and cloudy above her and there seems to be no possibility of escape.

Meanings
Emotional upheaval. Feeling trapped, bound. Don't make a decision right now. Go within (blindfold).The castle is in the background - safety is within reach. At the pinnacle of a scary situation. Choices are available.
Her own thoughts and ideas are restrictive. She has too many ideas running through her head. The best is for her to wait for the sun to come from behind the cloud.... there is not much she can do right now except wait... and intellectually rescue herself. She mustn't get into the mind game of wanting to be rescued. She must take back her power and responsibility and open her eyes, then she will realize that the path forward is clear.
The Eight of Swords predicts problems in the situation. Your interests will be opposed by other people. You may be restricted as a result of the obstacles which are placed in the path toward your goals. Want to get out of an oppressive situation or change your present line of work. The problem is not with you but with others. They are the ones who are not coming through, living up to their end, or causing misfortune. But even though the problems are great, they can still be overcome.
The Eight of Swords portrays a dilemma much like that experienced in the Two of Swords. We are again faced with the difficulty of a painful decision and we are at an impasse, uncertain which way to go. However, unlike the Two in which the choice is forced upon us, the decision in the Eight is the result of our own actions. This card follows naturally upon the Seven of Swords which is a card of duplicity. If we use deception for our gain, ultimately we will be faced with the difficulty of dealing with that deception; for all that is hidden must finally come to light. However, despite the fact that we have "boxed ourselves into a corner," there is way out. The solution is simply to deal with the situation in the most direct yet tactful manner possible, and face our choice with inner strength. We must be aware of the consequences of our actions in all aspects of life and if we are able to deal honestly with ourselves and others, we won't find ourselves in this kind of situation. However, if we are here already, there is still the possibility of freedom from the bondage of our own fears and uncertainties. If you encounter the Eight of Swords in a reading, it is time to be honest with yourself and others in order to be free of the burden of fear or guilt.
The woman on the Eight of Swords is lost and alone. She can't see because she is blindfolded. She can't reach out because she is bound. She can't move freely because she is caught in a prison of swords. It seems she has wandered far from home - her place of security far away on the hill. How can she get back? She doesn't even know which way to go. The Eight of Swords stands for those times when we feel lost, confused and powerless. Help and relief seems very far away.
Sometimes we feel restricted by circumstances. We wake up one day in an impossible situation. A dead end job. A troubled relationship. Mountains of debt. How did this happen? We have no idea. Even little problems can make us feel trapped. There just doesn't seem to be a way out. Sometimes life seems fine - on the surface. "I have everything I want. I should be happy, so what's the problem?" We just don't know. We're confused and unsure.
You are heading toward (or already in) a situation in which you will feel a lack of freedom and choice. Such situations are tricky because the more you get into them, the more restricted you feel. At each step, your options seem to narrow until you feel completely stuck. When you see this card, remember that you do have choices, and you do have power. No matter how trapped you feel, you can find a way out if you believe it is possible. The young girl in the picture could free herself. She could wriggle free, tear off the blindfold, and kick down those swords. Solutions are not always easy, but they exist. Find your clarity of thought and purpose (the Swords ideal) and use them to take that first step toward home.
On the face of it, this is a card about hopelessness, restriction and lack of options. but it isn't. Not really. If you look at the Ryder Waite deck, you see a woman, tied from the waist up in such a way that she cannot move her arms, and blindfolded. She stands between eight swords--and there is a featureless background. It would seem that she can't go anywhere--that she is imprisoned. However, keep in mind that this deck, as did many of the older decks, portrayed the negative meaning and implied the positive. So, let's consider our tied up lady. First of all--there is nothing in front of her. She could just walk straight ahead, if she so chose--blindfold or not. But she does not choose to do so. She seems to be waiting for rescue.
Let's consider the nature of the Swords. They represent the mental world - our conscious minds and what they do and how they work. In terms of our thought process, this is typical of the times when we think we're safe, but in fact we're trapped, without any options, and must depend on the kindness of others. But is that ever the case? We always have options, but those options may or may not be acceptable to us. This is fine - so long as we acknowledge that we have them. If we don't, it doesn't take us long to drift into victim mode. And that is where our lady is at the moment.
Feeling fenced in, restricted, vulnerable. Too many ideas/no direction. Handle difficult situations immediately, Gossip, advice, over analytical (back and forth), Pay attention. Problems are behind woman. Legs are not tied; blind fold can be removed. Find out who put you in this situation, realize that you are not trapped, that you are free to move. Restriction. Run of bad luck, feelings of being trapped and powerless. Patient effort needed to get out of situation. Help is available if you ask. Restrictions will gradually fade.

Nine of Swords

Description
The Nine of Swords depicts a person who has waken up fearfully from the midst of a nightmare. Nine swords hang on the wall behind him/her and the base of the bed is decorated with a carving of a duel in which one person is being defeated by another. The quilt covering the individual is decorated with roses and the outlines of astrological symbols.
The Nine of Swords, in the Rider deck, shows a woman sitting in bed with her hands over her eyes. She is obviously in pain or in great sorrow.

Meanings
This is the card of fear and nightmares, and therefore has an apparently negative connotation. However, the troubles portended by the Nine of Swords are primarily of a psychological nature and do not necessarily indicate suffering in our external reality. Our experience of the world is greatly influenced by our expectations, desires, and fears. In large measure we are the creators of our own world, and our attitudes determine how we experience that world.
The Nine of Swords indicates the paralyzing nature of our fears and negative expectations. If we allow ourselves to be bound by fear of the future we may eventually create a negative reality for ourselves by virtue of our expectations. Thus, the Nine of Swords is a card which expresses an inner reality that may be "crystallized" or manifested in the external world if we are not able to overcome the negative feelings which affect us.
The message of this card is that although all of us experience fear, frustration, and uncertainty we should not allow those negative emotions to immobilize us or keep us from pursuing our goals with enthusiasm and hope. The future will always be uncertain, yet we can face this uncertainty with inner strength and the support of our "higher power."
It makes sense that the figure on the Nine of Swords is in bed because it is during the night that our griefs and regrets come to mind most intensely. The quiet darkness strips away the distractions of the day, leaving us alone with our thoughts. Who has not lain awake at four AM filled with worries that refuse to go away?
The Nine of Swords represents this unhappiness which can strike us at any time. Unlike the pain of the Three of Swords which seems to come from without, the Nine of Swords represents the pain that we generate from within. What tortures we put ourselves through when our fears and doubts overwhelm us. Worry is probably the most common. Have I done enough? Will everything work out OK? What am I going to do? The thoughts go round and round - impossible to turn off. Guilt is another source of pain. When we have done something that we feel is wrong or hurtful - or failed to do something we think we should have - the distress can be very real. It is worse when nothing we do relieves the bad feelings or makes them go away. Finally, there is just pure anguish. Sometimes the pain of life is so total that all we feel like doing is crying into our hands. Needless to say, the Nine of Swords is not the most pleasant of cards, but it doesn't always indicate major distress. Often it is just a sign of some element of unhappiness or trouble - a vulnerable spot in your life.
This card is often a warning from your Inner Guide that the path you are going down may be a difficult one. If you approach the Nine of Swords in this spirit - as a Caution sign - you will be able to use it constructively. Examine your situation carefully to be sure you are making the best choices. Even a small change can make all the difference.
The Nine of Swords foretells the arrival of conflict in your life. You may worry more about problems which never would have bothered you in the past. Other people will be opposed to your interests. The situation will cause you to be unhappy. Have been subject to prolonged periods of depression and are not happy with your present situation and want things to come together and work out. You will have good fortune later on. Time will prove to be advantageous and you will get what you want after all.
Nightmare. You need to realize that fears, if not confronted and understood, can lead to obsession, compulsion, paranoia or physical illness. We all have a dark side that must be acknowledged. Avoid being a martyr. Get enough sleep.
I see the Nine of Swords indicating that someone is worrying excessively about something. You know how you sometimes wake in the middle of the night and obsess about something, but when you wake in the morning it doesn't seem so bad? Sometimes people go though that sort of feeling about a situation even when it isn't the middle of the night.
Straighten out circumstances. Lack of sleep. Guilt, depression, putting yourself down. Destruction = way out. Inability to see forward to positively. Usually involves a loved person suffering in some way. Cruelty. Anxiety, sleepless nights. Spite and slander which undermines confidence. Suffering which is eventually good, i.e. treatment. Female health problems. Possibly self-punishment and guilt. Mental anguish.
Since swords represent the mental realm, this card can be interpreted as mental anguish, depression, guilt, putting yourself down, nightmares, misery, a sense of hopelessness, despair, anxiety. This card represents the mind that injures itself through doubt or depression.
Traditionally, the Nine of Swords has also meant sorrow for another person who is close to you. Along these same lines, the Nine could also mean worrying about a loved one, sometimes to excess.
Keep an eye on the cards that surround or modify the Nine. If it falls next to the Star, remember that all is not lost. There is a ray of hope in there, a reason to pull out of the depression, a lifeline out of the anguish. If it falls next to the High Priestess, you must be prepared to face the truth without fear or doubt. In the same way, if it falls next to the Hermit, someone will show up to guide you out of the hole you seem to have fallen into. If there are aces in the spread, look for the light at the end of the tunnel, a way out in the form of something new and fresh.
The astrological correspondence for this card is Mars in Gemini. When you pull this card, ask yourself why you are being so hard on yourself. How are you putting yourself down or what is the source of your depression? What can you do to make yourself feel better?

Ten of Swords

Description
The Ten of Swords depicts one of the most painful and sad images in the entire Tarot deck. A man lies face down with ten long swords embedded in his back. The sky above is pitch black and the general feeling is one of sadness, loss, and misfortune. However, despite these ominous images, there are positive aspects to this card. The sea before which the body lies is glassy and calm, and the sunrise is appearing in the distance beyond the mountains. The fire of the sun is burning the clouds of darkness away as it rises and the darkness will soon be dispelled.

Meanings
The Ten of Swords is very similar to the Death card of the Major Arcana. It is not to be taken literally as an indication of an actual death but rather as evidence of an impending change which may initially be difficult to accept. The Nine of Swords indicates that there is finally closure to an outstanding issue, which may have been difficult to deal with. This is a card of endings and possibly loss, but as with all endings there is heralded a new beginning, a rebirth, and a rejuvenation of the spirit. We may have been struggling with a difficult decision for some time, or we may have been clinging to something, which was ultimately not in our best interests, and now we must learn to let go. The process of change is often difficult, yet life is filled with uncertainty; "The only thing constant in life is change!"
The Ten of Swords portends a difficult experience of loss or release, but a new awareness and a positive sense of relief that the difficulty is finally finished will eventually follow the pain of this experience. Though this card may seem negative at first glance, it is a card of hope and an indication that our troubles will not be permanent.
The Ten of Swords appears to be a card of terrible misfortune, but, surprisingly, it often represents troubles that are more melodramatic than real. The man on this card has quite a few swords in his back. Wouldn't one be enough? Isn't ten excessive? Perhaps this gentleman's suffering - though sincere - is exaggerated as well. One meaning of the Ten of Swords is hitting rock bottom. When one disaster follows another, we feel devastated at first, but eventually we throw up our hands up and laugh. It's so bad, it's funny! In films, the hero says, "What else could possibly go wrong?" and we know a bucket of water is about to fall on his head. When you see the Ten of Swords, know that the last bucket has fallen, and you can expect a turn for the better. This card can also show when you're in victim mentality. You're certain that the whole world is picking on you just to make your life difficult. I picture the man lifting his head and saying, "You think you've got it bad...a cut on the finger. I've got ten swords in my back...count, 'em - ten!" Then he drops his head back down with a sigh. When we're in victim mentality, we think everything is horrible, hopeless and impossibly unfair. Being a martyr is also a favorite Ten of Swords activity. In this case, the man would say with a weak wave of his hand, "No...You go on. Have fun. Don't think about me. I'll just stay here with these swords in my back...but I want you to enjoy yourself." Being a martyr in this sense is not the same as making a sacrifice for another with no strings attached. With the Ten of Swords, either is possible, but doing a good turn for someone else is more satisfying without the strings. I don't mean to make light of misfortunes because, of course, there are many real tragedies in the world. Sometimes the Ten of Swords indicates a sad event, but you know when this is the case. There is not even a hint of laughter in your heart. Most of the time the Ten of Swords has a lighter side. It is as if your Inner Guide is gently kidding you about how you are handling your own personal tale of woe.
The Ten of Swords foretells misfortune in the situation. There may be much sadness regarding your questions. Most of the pain that is associated will be mental rather than physical. Things will not go smoothly in your dealings with others because of obstacles or adverse conditions, hardships or disputes, and you may quit, be demoted or dismissed. Your family will be more in focus than usual, and conditions all around won't be at their best. Fear poverty or ruin and want to find a way out of an impossible dilemma. Don't give up on yourself or another or consider the situation (or the person) hopeless.
If your first exposure to the Ten of Swords comes from one of the older books and more traditional decks, you come away from this card with a feeling of utter defeat. The Ryder Waite deck, for example, shows a man lying flat on the ground, with ten swords sticking out of his back. But remember, the older decks portrayed the negative and implied the positive. They did this to keep the frivolous of soul away from the mysteries of the Tarot. But this card contains within it some of the most powerful lessons in the suit. As you know, swords are about mental activity. The conscious mind and how it works - or doesn't. This is, in some ways, a card of absolute passivity. A complete letting go, in the negative, from despair. But in the positive, the seeker has realized that he/she has taken her (his) issue as far as possible, and that there is nothing more that can be done. At times like this, it is necessary to become very quiet, to be able to allow things to take their course without intervention, manipulation or control. Remember, inaction is a form of action. The choice to do nothing is a choice. This is not, as some have called it, the doormat card.
Ruin. You need to know that the worst is over. Though the hopes and dreams of the past may be dashed, new ones will arise in time. If words cannot comfort, a wound this deep and loss this devastating may require professional help.

Reversed
Fear of ruin, to such a point that emotional relationship/finances will not work out), ego-hang up, end of problem. Self-pity, doubt, betrayal, mistrust. If next to Ace of Swords, limitations are coming up. Hysteria, it would only take one knife to kill a man, yet this person has ten swords in him, even in his ear.

Page of Swords

Description
Earth of Air.
The Page of Swords depicts a young individual, probably a young man, standing in the midst of rough terrain with a sword held in both hands. The sky is filled with turbulent clouds and the trees in the background are obviously wind-blown as is the young man's hair. The waters behind the youth are rough and the general sense of this card is one of tumultuous energy.

Meanings
The Page of Swords is as perceptive as the Queen. He has the ability to find out the truth regarding all matters. He has both mental and physical agility. He is full of anticipation.
Want success or cooperation in business and/or matters of the heart. The situation in which you feel trapped is only temporary. Your pessimism will soon be replaced by great joy, and someone will be very instrumental in changing things for the better.
The swords, as we have seen in the card of the Ace, represent the element Air, and thus correspond to the ethereal nature of the mind and intellect. This card indicates the turbulent nature of intellectual discovery and inspiration unchecked by experience or wisdom. The Page seems to be either on the defensive, hence protecting his ideas, or on the offensive, looking for some victim of the double-edged sword of his mind. Perhaps he is seeking a confrontation in the intellectual sense or has the desire to prove himself mentally superior to others.
Ideas. You need to appreciate and communicate ideas, information and theories. Abstract thinking can help you see the weak spots in plans and systems. New information will produce surprises. Beware of gossip. Protect your privacy.
Imagine that you are standing at a depot and see a boy holding out his hand to you from a departing train. He beckons you to come aboard. "Jump," he says, "My train is going to marvelous places!" That boy is the Page of Swords. In the Tarot, the Pages are messengers. They deliver gestures of spirit - opportunities offered to you to change your destiny. A gesture may be small (a bit of news, passing comment or casual encounter) or huge (a major turning point), but it always asks you to make a choice. Will you go or stay, accept or decline? What you decide makes all the difference. Each gesture of spirit is unique, but it reflects the Page's suit.
In readings, the Page of Swords offers gestures of challenge. He suggests that an opportunity for growth may come your way in the guise of a problem or dilemma. Such gestures will not be your favorites. In fact, you will probably want to say "Thanks...but no thanks."
The Page of Swords asks you to embrace a difficult situation and meet its challenge. You could think of these as trials designed to test your mettle. If you accept and prevail, you will become stronger and more resilient. In meeting these challenges, you are encouraged to use the tools of the Swords suit - honesty, reason, integrity, and fortitude.
The Page of Swords can also stand for a child or young-at-heart adult whose relationship to you involves truthfulness, ethical behavior, discouragement or matters of the mind. This relationship is likely to be troubled or difficult in keeping with the challenges of the Swords suit. This card can indicate intellectual stimulation and excitement. As a child, the Page of Swords encourages you to have fun with mental activities of all kinds - learning, exploring, and researching. Enjoy the world of thought your mind can open to you.
Physical description - Dark brown hair, gray/hazel or blue eyes. Deep penetrating eyes. Sporty, graceful, and physically well coordinated.
Personality Traits - May be promoting themselves, you should doubt their sincerity. They could be pessimistic, you must not allow their pessimism to "rub-off" on you. Quick witted, intelligent youngster. Eloquent and sharp. Eager to learn, adept at turning situations to own advantage.

Knight of Swords

Description
Air of Air.
The Knight of Swords is a young man who rides a powerful white horse into the midst of a battle in the distance. The sky behind him is filled with storm clouds and the trees are tossed wildly by the wind. The horse's harness is decorated with images of butterflies and birds and the knight's cape is also decorated with birds. He charges forward with fury and apparently without regard to the dangers he may experience.
The Knight of Swords augurs the action and energy that follows upon the initial inspiration of the Page of Swords. The Knight is a fireball of energy and forward momentum, and may indicate the beginnings or initial stages of a creative venture, new relationship, or business. The horse seems to "ride the wind" as its hooves barely touch the ground. The white color of the animal symbolizes the purity of the intellectual energy that motivates the rider. This pure mental energy is a powerful influence, yet without temperance and a realization of the consequences of blind action one may become entangled in difficult situations. The Knight rides alone, yet he seems ready to encounter a veritable army of resistance.
Meanings
Intellectual thinking.
When we are possessed by a pure idea, and wish to manifest that idea in reality, we are often so blinded by the desire for its fulfillment that we fail to see the difficulties we may encounter or the consequences for which we may be responsible. The Knight of Swords is a powerful figure full of life and energy who needs to be balanced with a realization of responsibility and compassion. Pure intellectual energy is a double-edged sword which has the potential for either great good or great evil, and this power must be tempered with feeling and spirit so it doesn't create pain for ourselves or others.
The Wise tell us to seek balance - the middle path of moderation. Well...the Knights don't agree! They want to do things all the way, not half-way. They push the energy of their suit as far as it will go, maybe farther. That's why each Knight has a positive and negative side. On the positive side, the Knight of Swords is a master of logic and reason. He has a keen intellect that grasps the fine points of any subject. He speaks clearly, directly and always with authority. His judgments are sure and free of emotion. Others rely on his lucid analyses of problems and solutions. On the negative side, this Knight is not a master of diplomacy. He can be downright tactless and rude. When he thinks you are wrong, you'll know it. He's convinced of his own superiority and has little tolerance for stupidity. He expects others to comply with his views. To him, feelings are irrelevant and illogical.
In readings, a Knight of Swords shows that his penetrating style is (or could be) impacting the situation in some way - as an aspect of you, someone in your environment (man or woman) or the atmosphere in general. Ask yourself, "Is this Knight's energy helping or hurting?" If this Knight's style is evident, then balance is needed. Excess is only helpful in short bursts. Are you always forcing your position on others? Do you get in trouble for saying what you think? Is your partner too cold and aloof? Do your colleagues tend to be critical rather than supportive? It may be time for a change.
If this Knight's energy is missing, a dose of clear-sightedness may be called for. Balance your life by moving toward him...at least a little. Are you too emotional? Let your head rule your heart next time. Do you overvalue the opinions of others? Trust your own authority. Are you afraid to offend? Speak your mind. Let the Knight of Swords introduce you to his world of reason and self-assurance.
The Knight of Swords is the gallant hero who is both strong and brave. He has great skill and is very capable of succeeding in all his ventures. You have established a link with someone (or something) and want the chain of events to continue. This is a very good time for embarking on new projects. Problems will be transcended or solved (whether they are mental, physical, emotional or spiritual) and you will attract whatever you need in the way of help or assistance.
Physical Description - Dark brown hair, gray/hazel or blue eyes. Tall, lots of charm and wit. Dark eyes. Lots of sex appeal. Charismatic, powerful, intelligent.
Personality Traits - Focused on making a point, committed to ideas. Very strong person. Initially helpful, but actually self-seeking. Makes a good friend, but a dangerous ally. Eloquent, confident, fast moving, easily bored. Breezes into life and then out again.
Can bring struggles or strife, which will cause you to stand up for yourself. A warning that own weakness can lead to difficult circumstances. Aggressive behavior.
Ingenuity. You need to think of ways to turn ideas into reality. Develop your skills, ingenuity and self-esteem, or frustration and defensiveness will cause you trouble. Respond now with cleverness, outspokenness and foresight.

Queen of Swords

Description
Element - Air - rational/thoughts/non-emotional
The Spring setting on the Queen of Swords, as opposed to Winter settings on most other Swords cards, has an 'emergence' and 'growth' quality to it. Swords set in Winter can have a very cold and stark look to them but the Spring colours soften up the harder aspect of this card. This is a 'lady' not the hard, cold, woman that other decks often depict.
The lady is holding the sword comfortably but not brandishing it - in fact there is a feeling of definite femininity with this card. She is wearing pink (or is she surrounded by fluffy pink clouds) and is adorned with pearls (for wisdom). She looks very much in control, her hair is beautifully set and her make-up is obvious but subtle.
The climbing plants are beginning to open their buds giving a hint of new growth as does the butterfly on her hair - showing her willingness for transformation.
This lady is very much a rational thinker who uses her intelligence more than her emotions. She sits high on her throne with a stern look on her face indicating that no-one could fool me. Although she has her left had extended as a sign of having something to give or to offer. In her right hand she holds a sword pointed to the sky. On this day appears lots of clouds at a distance indicating that a storm may brew as the trees are flowing from the West to the East. Most storms come from the West. However there is a bird flying alone as if it lost the flock or family. It is flying into the storm. Perhaps telling us not to go with the flow and instead pursue our endeavors. Go head on. There are butterflies on her crown as well as Three hiding under her thrown. She sits offering something protected by her sword. On her thrown is an angel child and perhaps this child is always on her mind.
Meanings
The Queen of Swords represents the sternness of a mature intellectuality which is devoid of emotion. Mythologically, the feminine is associated with emotion, yet in this card the woman is stern and composed, obviously without much feeling. This card represents the intellect's ability to judge and discern impartially, without the influence of subjectivity or sentimentality. This card follows upon the rashness of the Knight of Swords, who lets his intellectual energy lead him into precarious situations.
Intelligent, perceptive, penetrating mind, decisive, mature, competitive, independent, moral, sees a situation as black and white, virtuous, resourceful, respected, gets to the heart of a mater, candid, virgin, powerful and skillful communication, diplomacy and political astuteness, insightful, keen observer, knows how to confront, negotiate, and solve problems, organized thought, aloof, protective, dignified, wise, cold and calculating, unruffled, clear headed, detached, stern, scientific, uncompromising, disciplinarian, reserved, political consciousness, introspective, sound judgement, fair, articulate, accurately intense, exacting, hates to be told what to do, likes everything on the table before deciding, strong willed, ambitious, do the right thing.
Pride in one's creative efforts, vigilance, dedicated to truth, calmness, determined, power of positive thought, bard and poet, quick-witted, confident, not happy in crowds, truth seeker, skillful analysis, gifted teacher, clear communication, straightforward, can laugh at him/herself, idealist, progressive, sees beyond the obvious, professional, humanitarian, secular humanist, hard to bluff, likes directness, stands up for what she believes in, a widow, can make it on her own, distant, advisor, no nonsense approach, well developed sense of humor, realistic.
The past is gone and the future looks uncertain, but you don't want to be faithless or fearful. You want to be at peace with yourself or your predicament and for your incentive to be restored. Emptiness is a necessary vacuum. A cup that is already full has no room for more.
You need to be independent. Empathy may distract you. Think with your head, not with your heart. Devote your full attention and concentration to your situation or the volume of information will overwhelm you. Tell it like it is.
The personality of the Queen of Swords combines the positive air energy of the Swords suit with the inward focus of a Queen. You can always count on the Queen of Swords to tell you exactly how it is. Above all else she admires honesty, and she lives by her commitment to being truthful. Lies, tricks and games are of no interest to her, but she's not easy to fool. She is experienced in the ways of the world, good and bad. The Queen of Swords can size up a situation quickly. She understands human folly, but doesn't condemn it. She knows when cow manure is being thrown around and simply finds clever ways around it. She prefers being straightforward and direct. Her observations are candid, but never hurtful. In fact, this Queen has a delightful sense of humor. She likes a good laugh and always has a witty comeback ready-to-hand. She knows that life isn't meant to be taken too seriously. The Queen of Swords is refreshing in her candor and lack of pretense.
With all Queens, the emphasis is on your inner state. The Queen of Swords is not a real, many-sided person, but she does express an ideal of a certain type.
In readings, she asks you to think and feel as she does. For example: Are you being completely honest? Do you see the humor in the situation? Are you getting right to the point? Have you figured out what's really going on? Are you letting yourself be fooled? This Queen can also represent a man or woman who is like her, or an atmosphere of honest, direct communication. In a reading, she tells you that her special energy has meaning for you at this time. Let yourself be inspired by this Queen in whatever form she appears in your life.
Physical Description - Red head or dark brown hair, gray/hazel or blue eyes. Graceful. Powerful intelligent woman. In a position of authority, she has the influence over the querent's ability to make decisions. She is probably separated, divorced or widowed.
Personality Traits - She has a fondness for music and dancing. She is able to speak on other people's behalf, but can also cause mental manipulations. Independent, rational, cool in a crises. Very alert to undercurrents, and should not be underestimated.

Reversed
Weak, dull witted, doesn't get it, dishonest, speaks poorly, bitter, malicious, unscrupulous, intolerant, unreliable, devious, gossip, narrow-minded, short sighted, unreasoning, can't face the truth, no respect for rules, ruthless, without pity, frigid, sarcastic, bitchy, bigoted, petty.

King of Swords

Description
Fire of Air. Intuitive thinking.
The King of Swords, unlike the characters in the other court cards in this suit, faces us directly from his throne of command. He has a large two-edged sword in his right hand, and his left (which has a ring of power on one finger) rests calmly upon his lap. The back of his throne is decorated with butterflies, crescent moons, and an angel just near his left ear, positioned as though giving him guidance. The sky is relatively clear with a few clouds that do not indicate a storm, much unlike the stormy weather in the other court cards in the suit of swords. The trees in the background appear motionless and reflect the stern judgement of the King.

Meanings
The King of Swords has the power and courage to accomplish all his desires. He is a symbol of power and superiority which may assist you in your individual quests during life. You will be fearful about your future and will want to see things more clearly, obtain a new perspective, or enlist the aid of a professional-type person. Stay detached and you will be able to perceive the truth in situations, and your impressions or perceptions will later be confirmed.
This ruler is the epitome of intellectual power and represents judgement, command, and rulership. His character indicates the stern leadership of a judge, lawyer, or military commander whose emotions must be kept in check under the pressure of battle.
You need to use your intellect to get your way. Your schooling and knowledge of philosophy are important, but so are your idle thoughts and daydreams. You can also solve problems by using history, rules, laws and diplomacy. The personality of the King of Swords is a combination of the positive air energy of the Swords suit and the active, outward focus of a King.
The King of Swords is a man of intellect who can absorb and work with information of all kinds. He is a master of reason and logic and analyses any problem with ease. He can work out solutions quickly and explain them lucidly to others. In a chaotic situation, he cuts through the confusion and provides the clarity needed to move forward. Others seek him out to present their case as he speaks with eloquence and insight. He is always truthful and can be relied on to handle any situation fairly and honorably. When a judgment is called for, he can render an impartial, but just decision. He is incorruptible and lives by the highest ethical standards. He encourages those around him to do the same, and they often live up to his expectations. With Kings, the emphasis is on behavior. The King of Swords is not a real, many-sided person, but he does express an ideal of a certain type.
In readings, he asks you to take the kinds of actions he might take. For example: telling the truth, thinking up a solution, communicating well, or judging fairly. This King can also represent a man or woman who is acting as he does, or an atmosphere of reason, honesty and high standards. In a reading, he tells you that his special energy has meaning for you at this time. Let yourself be inspired by this King in whatever form he appears in your life.
Physical Description - Dark brown hair, gray/hazel or blue eyes. Has authority over Querent's activities. Could be father, husband, employer, teacher, lawyer, doctor, professional advisor.
Personality Traits - His application of intelligence has made his heart cold, and he holds back any subtle feelings. He understands human nature, and uses this understanding for his own advantage. In position of trust and authority. Logical and calm. He dislikes overt displays of emotion. Requires a lot of mental stimulation.
Indicates a challenging situation which could cause Querent to compromise himself. Advises caution.

Curious about what the future holds? Click here to find out how you can receive a 10 minute psychic reading from Psychic Source.

LEARN THE TAROT LINKS

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Counting Calories For Healthy Eating

2009-09-04T18:20:00.004-05:00

Here is a list of common foods and the calories they contain.

Fruit Cals

Apple(5oz/150g) 60

Apricot (Dried or Fresh) 10

Avocado 230

Banana (4oz/115g) 70

Banana chips (per oz/28g) 145

Cherries (4oz115g) 44

Clementines/Tangerines 25

Coconut (1oz/28g) 99

Currents (1oz/28g) 75

Dates (Dried or Fresh) 15

Grapes (4oz/115g) 68

Grapefruit (half) 40

Kiwi 35

Lemon/Lime 19/3

Manderins (canned in own juice, 4oz/115g) 40

Mango 110

Melon (1 wedge) 30

Nectarine (6oz/175g) 60

Orange 60

Passion Fruit 5

Peach (6oz/175g) 50

Pear (6oz/175g) 60

Pineapple (1oz/28g) 12

Pineapple ring 20

Plum 10

Prune 10

Star Fruit (each) 50

Berries (1oz/28g) 8

Canned fruit in own juice (1oz/28g) 10

Vegetables Per (oz/28g) Cals

Beans 14

Beans red kidney (boiled/canned) 28

Beet root 10

Broccoli (boiled) 7

Cabbage (boiled) 5

Carrots (boiled) 7

Cauliflower (boiled) 8

Celery 2

Cucumber 3

Leek (boiled) 6

Lettuce 4

Mushroom 4

Onions 20

Onion rings (in breadcrumbs or batter) 30

Onion, spring 2

Parsnip (boiled/roast) 19/30

Peas, garden (canned) 23

Peas, dried (boiled) 31

Peas, fresh/frozen 19

Peas, processed (canned) 28

Peppers (green) 24

Peppers (orange, red or yellow) 50

Potato 21

Potato, sweet 24

Sweetcorn (canned) 35

Sweetcorn (baby) 7

Tomatoes (canned/fresh) 5

Tomatoes (sundried) 42

Turnips (boiled) 4

Water chestnuts (canned) 9

Water Cress 6

Bakery Product (1 whole) Cals
Bagel 230

Crisp bread 32
Croissant 250
Crumpet 71
Currant bun 178
Muffin, white 192
Scone, fruit 152
Tea Cake 178
Toast (whole weat) 96
Wrap, tortilla 180

Beverages
Tea/Coffee per cup, with any of the following
Milk (topped/semi-skimmed/skimmed) 20/15/10
Sugar (teaspoon) 20
Cappuccino (small/large) 100/150
Latte (small/large) 140/180
Hot chocolate 300
Skinny late (small/large) 70/90
Fruit juice (unsweetened) 50

Dairy Products
Butter/flora (1 small packet) 83/53
Cheese standard triangle 47
Cheddar cheese (oz/28g) 115
Cheddar reduced fat (oz/28g) 73
Cottage cheese (tablespoon) 38

Bread Cals per oz/28g Fat
French 77 0.8
Garlic Bread 100 5.7
Rye 63 0.5
Soda Bread 75 0.7
White sliced 67 0.5
Wholemeal/Wheat/Brown 61 0.7
Rolls, buns, etc. (per piece)
Bagel (small/large) 160/225 0.9/1.3
Baguette (small/large) 250/400 1.0/1.8
Bread stick 20 0.1
Croissant Large 295 17.5
Hamburger Bun small/large 155/225 3.4/4.3
Muffin 150 1.3
Pitta Bread White (small/large) 180/90 2.2/1.1
Teacake 150 2.3
Wrap 180/169 3.6/3.6 Uncooked (per oz/28g) Cals

Fish Cals
Cod (fillet) 22
Haddock (fillet) 21
Hake (fillet) 20
Herring fillet 56
Kippers (fillet) 75
Mackrel (fillet) 63
Mackrel (smoked) 99
Trout (fillet) 39
Tuna (fresh) 44
Salmon 52
Sardines (raw) 55
Scampi (raw) 30
Scampi (in breadcrumbs) 60
Canned (per oz/28g) Cals
Crab (in brine) 22
Tuna (in brine/water) 22
Tuna (in oil) 53
Oysters (each) 7
Salmon pink (in brine) 43
Salmon red (in brine) 47
Sardines (in brine) 48
Sardines (in tomato sauce) 45
Cod (in batter-oven baked) 59
Cod (in parsley sauce) 24
Fish finger 44
Haddock (in batter) 65
Haddock (in crumbs) 49

Chicken Cals per 10 oz/28g per 10 oz/28g
Breast, casseroled 32
Breast, meat only grilled 41
Dark meat roasted 55
Leg, meat and skin roasted 66
Chicken Roasted 50
Chicken mince raw 55

Turkey
Dark meat roasted 50
Light meat roasted 55

Duck
Meat only roasted 55

Meat Cals per 10 oz/28g per 10 oz/28g
Brisket, lean, boiled 63
Fillet steak, lean grilled 53
Minced beef raw 63
Roast beef 50
Rump steak, lean, grilled 50
Sirloin, lean, roasted 53
Sirloin, lean, grilled, well done 63
Topside, lean, roasted 57

Lamb
Breast lean roasted 76
Belly joint lean & fat grilled 90
Leg lean roasted 57
Leg chops lean & fat grilled 62
Loin chops lean & fat grilled 69

Pork
Diced, lean casseroled 52
Fillet, lean & fat raw 41
Leg joint lean & fat roasted 52
Loin chop lean, grilled per chop 221
Pork mince, raw 46
Spare ribs lean & fat grilled 37
Pork steaks, lean, grilled 55

Frozen Desserts Cals and Fat (g)
Bounty Ice Cream Bar 300 20.9
Kit Kat Ice Cream Bar 220 15
Lyons Maid Fab/Strawberry Mivi 90 3
Lyons Maid Rolo Lolly 163 8.5
Mars Ice Cream Bar 209 12
Mars Twix Ice Cream 228 13.6
McDonalds McFlurry – Cadbury’s Crunchie 321 11.3
Snickers Ice Cream Bar 230 14.6
Supermarket Bulk Buy Choc Ices (approx.) 140 9.0
Vanilla (per oz approx.) 50 2.4
Reduced Calorie (per oz approx.) 33 1.7
Sorbet 37 0
Large in cone 230 10.5
Medium in cone 170 7.9
Small in cone 110 5.2
CONE LARGE (w/o dessert) 15 0.1
CONE MEDIUM (w/o dessert) 10 0.1
CONE SMALL (w/o dessert) 5 0
CUP (w/o desserts) 15 0.1
WAFEL(w/o desserts) 7 0.1

Pasta/Rice Cals per oz/28g (Boiled) Cals per oz/28g (Dry weight)
Fresh Pasta 29 80
Dry Pasta 32 96
Spaghetti 32 97
Brown/white Rice 39 100
Basmati Indian Rice 39 100
Pearl Barley 34 103
Noodles 27 109

Cheese per oz (28g) Calories Fat Grams
Cheddar 8.6 1.5
Cheddar 1/2 fat 65 3.9
Blue Stilton 102 8.8
Brie 91 8.0
Edam 93 7.1
Edam ½ fat 71 3.2
Cheese (spread) 8.6 5.8
Cream Cheese Low Fat 47 3.7
Cream Cheese Extra Lite 30 1.2
Feta 76 6.2
Low Fat Cottage Cheese 20 0.4

LINKS:

Healthy Eating

Natural Hair Loss Remedies

2009-09-04T17:23:00.003-05:00

Hair loss is a common problem. There can be many causes including, but not llimited to, stress, malnutrition, thyroid problems and testosterone irregularities.

Menopause is a common cause for hair loss in women due to the body's attempt to compensate for a lack of hormones. At the onset of menopause the body makes fewer female hormones to counter the body's existing levels of testosterone. Supplemental estrogen can help correct the imbalance and promote hair growth.

If your hair loss begins around the onset of menopause, you can maintain hormonal balance and hair thickness with herbs containing plant-based estrogens, such as dong quai or ashwaganda. Other herbs that exert mild estrogenic effects include damiana, black cohosh, sage, and saw palmetto.

Homemade remedies can be beneficial to help regrow lost hair and prevent further hair loss.

Remedy #1
coconut oil
Apply to scalp daily.

Remedy #2
coriander leaves (mature cilantro leaves)
Boil in water until reduced to small quantity. Let cool. Strain. Apply to scalp daily.

Remedy #3
lime seeds
black pepper
water
Make paste and apply to scalp. Leave on overnight or for 30 minutes then wash hair as normal.

Remedy #4
jot olive oil
honey
cinnamon powder
Make a paste and apply to hair overnight or for 30 minutes and wash as normal.

Remedy #5
almond oil
Apply daily to prevent further loss.

Remedy #6
Rosemary
Make into tea by boiling in water. Let cool. Rins through hair daily.

Remedy #7
artichoke leaves
Simmer in water for several hours and apply as a nightly massage.

Remedy #8
catnip
Make into a tea and rinse through hair daily.

Remedy #9
parsley seeds
Crush and apply in powder form to the scalp monthly. The powder is to remain overnight, Brush out thoroughly in the morning.

Remedy #10
aloe Vera
Rub into the scalp and hair each night.

Remedy #11
onion
Rub the scalp with half an onion until the scalp becomes red prior to washing hair.

Remedy #12
red pepper
Apply to the scalp. Leave on for 1 hour or overnight and brush out in the morning.

Remedy #13
safflower oil
Apply to scalp daily.

Remedy #14
rosemary solution
Boil rosemary, sage, peach leaf, nettle and burdock in water. Strain and use to wash hair daily.

Steep one ounce of ground rosemary, two ounces of ground sage and half an ounce of ground nettles in one pint of ethyl alcohol for a week. Strain. Add one ounce of olive oil, one ounce of castor oil, and one ounce of water. Shake before using. Apply as a hair lotion before bed.

Remedy #15
apple cider vinegar
Apply apple cider vinegar directly to the scalp with a moistened cotton ball. Leave on for fifteen minutes to three hours before shampooing.

Above all, there are a few things to avoid to prenvent further hair loss. Avoid rubber bands, sharp clips, and spiky brushes. Do not brush hair when it is wet. Try not to wash hair every day. Do not wrap hair in towel or wring hair dry with towel. Avoid brushing excessively. Avoid blow drying and heated styling devices. Trim the hair every 4 to 5 weeks even if you are growing it. Wash hair with cold water. Rub scalp with fingers to promote growth by stimulating scalp.

Negative Calorie Foods

2009-08-25T21:48:00.014-05:00

Let me start by saying that no diet should be started without first talking to your doctor. Only your doctor can tell you whether you are healthy enough to start a diet in the first place.

No foods have negative calories. The lowest you can get is zero. Water has 0 calories, but the body has to warm it up to use it. It only takes about 50 calories to burn the recommended 8 glasses of water per day, but that will create a negative calorie effect since water has 0 calories! Get it now?

"Negative calorie" refers to a list of foods that contain less energy than the body needs to digest and absorb the energy and nutrients contained in the foods. This means that from eating these foods alone, there is potential for a net loss of calories from the body. This means the body has to work harder to use these foods. This negative energy balance is required to lose weight.
There is plenty of science to support the fact that a raw food diet of fresh fruits and vegetables will help you lose weight. Our bodies use up energy in digesting food. Scientists believe that about 10% of the calories from food are burned during the process of digesting food. The calories in "negative calorie" foods are very low and very healthy compared to the calories in fat, sugar, meat. So, you can eat all of the green veggies you want and still lose weight.

Vegetables:

Artichokes
Asparagus
Green beans
String beans
Beets
Beet greens
Broccoli
Brussels sprouts
Cabbage
Chinese cabbage
Carrots
Cauliflower
Celeriac
Celery
Chervil
Chicory
Chives
Squash
Tomato (fresh/canned)
Corn (cob/canned)
Cucumbers
Dandelion greens
Dill pickles
Eggplant
Endive
Garlic
Kale
Kohlrabi
Leeks
Lettuce
Mushrooms
Mustard greens
Okra
Onions
Parsley leaves
Turnips
Watercress
Parsnips (raw/boiled)
Peas
Peppers (green/red)
Pickles (sour/sweet)
Pumpkin
Radishes
Rappini
Red cabbage
Rhubarb
Rutabagas
Sauerkraut
Salsify
Scallions
Shallots
Sorrel
Spinach

Fruits:

Apples
Apricots
Blackberries
Blueberries
Cantaloupe
Cherries
Cranberries
Currants
Damson plum
Figs
Fruit salad (fresh/canned)
Grapefruit
Grapes
Honeydew melon
Huckleberries
Kiwi
Kumquats
Lemons
Limes
Loganberries
Mangoes
Muskmelons
Nectarines
Oranges
Papaya
Peaches
Pears
Pineapple
Pomegranates
Prunes
Quince
Raspberries
Strawberries
Tangerines
Watermelon

Meat:
Abalone
Bass (fresh water/sea)
Buffalo fish
Catfish
Clams (cooked)
Cod Steaks
Crab
Crayfish
Flounder
Frog legs
Mussels
Oysters (half shell)
Shrimp
Terrapin
Trout
Tuna

The idea is that these foods are usually very high in fiber and have a low number of calories to begin with. So, they keep you full but don't add any calories. This can be a great advantage in the fight to lose weight. These foods cannot serve as a diet alone. That would not be healthy at all. However, it might be a good idea to pick up one of these foods instead of those potato chips or chocolate.

LINKS
Diet & Nutrition

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2009-08-23T11:24:00.000-05:00

Learn the Tarot (The Minor Arcana-The Suit Of Pentacles)

2009-08-21T15:46:00.011-05:00

MINOR ARCANA cont'd.

The Minor Arcana consists for four suits, each with 14 cards. The Minor Arcana reflect the day-to-day activities in our lives.

Suit of Pentacles

Ace of Pentacles

Description
The card depicts a single hand with a pentacle coming out of the clouds, very much like the aces of the other suits. And, like the other aces, the landscape below the "hand of heaven" represents the primary element of the suit. In the Ace of Pentacles, the landscape is a rich garden with flowers, shrubs, a flowing creek and mountains in the distance.

Meanings
The Ace of pentacles indicates great wealth and happiness. The happiness may be the result of the receipt of something long desired. The wealth, however, need not have a monetary value. Some of the greatest gifts of life can not be bought. Everything in your life you were once immersed in that was important (be it in your love life or finances) has either been cut off, cut back or completely severed and you want it to spring back or be replaced by something else. It may take time, but what was cut back or pruned WILL spring back.
The Ace of Pentacles, like the Aces of the other suits, is representative of new beginnings, fresh energy, and inspiration. In this case, the pentacles are analogous to the alchemical element of earth, and therefore symbolise the material world and things associated with matter and the body. Pentacles also represent money and the financial concerns which we may have at the time of our reading.
Prosperity, fertility, generosity, fruits of labour, material pleasures, new financial ventures, burst of energy for material creation, creative vision, crafts, ambition, craftsman, skills, success, material achievement, security, science, available money, productivity, foundation, physical delight, acquisition.
Manifestation, protection, endurance, reproduction, stability, constant, perfection, contentment, beauty, helping hand, windfall, security, good fortune, comfort, recognition, promotion, reward for hard work, good health, pennies from heaven, bountiful, beneficial, profit, agreeable, wealth, possessions, property, new job, new baby, new life pattern, birth.
Wisdom, spiritual treasures, gemstones, fulfilment, sensation, instinct, contentment, happiness, news, worldliness, fortune, success, recognition, being at the apes, bliss, attainment, happy marriage, happy home, inheritance, ecstasy, freedom, confidence, beauty of nature, inauguration, spiritual riches, sovereignty, sustenance, earthy, optimistic, bright prospects, benign, beginning a venture, fresh start, charge of physical energy, financial breakthrough, beginning of time, flowering, wholeness, wellness, balanced truths, nurture, wholesome.
It tells you that the end of a process is near. After the initial excitement of a new idea (wands), the inner turmoil of it all (cups), the struggle with it in the outside world (swords), now the time has come that your ideas will be materialised. There will be a lot of hard work involved (this is pentacles after all), but it is an exciting card that helps you manifest your ideas in the outside world.
The closure/conclusion of your process is near, you have the last bit of the road to walk, and you can actually have a glimpse of what lies ahead. The Aces are all about a new start, and this one as a pentacle-ace, practically shouts out to you: undertake the work, do it joyfully and be confident about it.
In readings, the Ace of Pentacles shows that a seed of productivity has been planted in your life although you may not yet recognise it. When the seed sprouts, it could take almost any form. Inside, it might be a feeling of centeredness, desire for results or need to focus on practical matters. Outside, it could be an offer, gift, opportunity, encounter or synchronistic event.
When you see the Ace of Pentacles, examine your life to see how its solid energy could work for you. Now is not the time for fantasy, drama or daring-do. It is a time to be real and centred. Seek out comfortable, reliable experiences that make you feel secure. Build a foundation of trust in your life both within and without. Your common sense will tell you what to do. Focus also on the natural world to help you stay grounded. Enjoy your body and all the joys of material existence.
The Ace of Pentacles is also a sign that you will be able to make your dreams real. Your ideas are ready to be turned into something tangible. Figure out what will work and make it a reality. You can now attract all the wealth you need to get your projects going. Tap into the material force of the Ace of Pentacles, you will prosper, and all your enterprises will flourish.
The Ace of Pentacles can suggest that we need to introduce something new into the equation. Rather than let things remain as they are, and hope they work themselves out, the Ace suggests we throw something new into the mix. What should that be? Well, take a few minutes to consider. If it were easy, you'd have already tried it. If it were safe and accepted, you'd have already tried it. Remember Monty Python - "And Now For Something Completely Different!" Why not consider something out-of-character or something you'd normally never do. That doesn't mean dancing naked on Main Street, just something that you might not ordinarily do, or get around to doing. For instance, you might consider joining a club or taking a health class at the local library. Maybe you might pick up a couple of books and learn how to build a web site at a free hosting service.
Maybe it's time to rearrange the furniture, or to clean out the closets and donate all those boxes of things you've accumulated, but never seem to use. Basically, you want to get movement and action in your life. If there's a log jam somewhere, you can pick away at the blockage, or you can get a swirl of movement going, and maybe the blockage will move away on it's own.
Money out of thin air, financial rewards, beginning of a successful new project. Success. Beginnings of prosperity. Firm foundation on which to build. Security, stability, financial improvements. Possibly a windfall through gambling. Opportunities to enjoy material side.
We recognise first that all Aces serve as portals from the higher realms to the lower, from the Major Arcana to the Minor. And we recognise that the Ace affords the opportunity to realise and bring into expression or manifestation all of the potential of that particular suit. In this case the material or earth plane. The card shows peace and prosperity and abundance.
The Ace of Pentacles indicates the beginning of new energy and revitalised interest in the material or financial areas of your life. This card may represent the beginning of new investments or the willingness to undertake a new business venture. There is also the possible indication of a legacy or influx of money from an unexpected source. The Ace of Pentacles heralds a feeling of prosperity and abundance and should be accepted joyfully; it is a very positive card in general.
However, as with any card in the Tarot deck, this meaning should not be taken strictly literally. It does not necessarily indicate an actual upswing in your financial situation as it may indicate a new attitude toward your current position.
If you encounter the Ace of Pentacles in a reading, there is an indication of prosperity, fruitfulness, and joy in your life that stems from an inner reassurance of personal well-being and financial stability.
The Ace of Pentacles is also a sign that you will be able to make your dreams real. Your ideas are ready to be turned into something tangible. Figure out what will work and make it a reality. You can now attract all the wealth you need to get your projects going. Tap into the material force of the Ace of Pentacles, you will prosper, and all your enterprises will flourish.
Reward. You need to attain a new level of material wealth and earthly power. It may come to you as the materialisation of an idea, a gift, inheritance, bonus, promotion or other reward. The chance for financial gain is real.

Reversed
Taking what one hasn't earned, corruption, greed, money can't buy happiness, stubborn, confused, carried away by passion, materialism, clinging to the past, fear of death, inability or refusal to understand cause and effect, overlooked for promotion, extravagance.

Two of Pentacles

Description
On the Two of Pentacles we see a young man dancing as he juggles his worldly concerns. The infinity sign loops around the two pentacles to suggest that he can handle unlimited problems. In the background we see two ships riding the waves easily - cruising the ups and downs of life. The man seems to have a somewhat concerned look on his face, yet he dances with apparent abandon despite the turbulence of the sea behind him.

Meanings
In readings, the Two of Pentacles lets you know that you can juggle all demands made upon you. In fact, you will relish the excitement of every hurdle. If you do not feel this level of confidence right now, this card asks you to believe in yourself. You have all you need to meet your every goal and more. Embrace the challenge. The Two of Pentacles also reminds you to be flexible. You too must be supple if you want to prevail. Don't force your way through or you will be cut down. Now is not the time to be rigid. Know that sometimes a side step, or even a back step is the surest way forward.
The Two of Pentacles is also a symbol of fun, laughter and good times. It is definitely a high-energy card. If you are feeling tired or depressed, this card may be a sign that greater vitality will be yours. If you are feeling revved already, the Two of Pentacles could be a warning against over-stimulation. Be sure you get the rest you need so that you can enjoy the up energy of this card.
Change. You need to be able to cope with change. For now, it might be better to keep two or more things going at once rather than focus on one. You must stay centred while you stay flexible and keep informed. Know thyself.
This card follows upon the initial energy of the Ace of Pentacles in which we are psychologically prepared to embrace success and prosperity. The twos of any suit typically represent the conflicts inherent in the opposites, and any pending decisions which must be made. In the Two of Pentacles, we find an individual whose consciousness, represented by the waters, is tossed by ostensibly conflicting interests. For example, if the Ace of Pentacles represents the beginnings of a new business or financial venture, the Two represents the need to balance that venture with other important areas of life such as family, friends, and even our own physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. This card indicates the necessity for balance between opposing desires and interests. Though it is necessary to take such circumstances seriously, the Two of Pentacles nevertheless indicates that our psychological health may ultimately be better served if we are able to temper our seriousness and drive for success with a sense of humour and the childlike ability to enjoy ourselves despite our outward condition. The sea of our lives will always be uncertain, yet if we can produce balance and harmony among all the demands upon us we will ultimately live happily and in prosperity.
Be reminded about times when you had to juggle your family, your friends, work, balance your check-book, keep healthy and fit, take on new challenges. When you had to move down life succeeding only, because you were alert, agile and patient. You know when to move and when to stay still. To glide through the dangers enjoying every moment of this wondrous obstacle course. Tap the energy of the Two of Pentacles today. There is nothing quite like the feeling of being graceful and effective at the same time. See you tomorrow, friend!"
The Two of Pentacles are problems and difficulties in the future. There may be obstacles erected which hinder the attainment of what you wish to pursue or obtain in life. The situation may cause undue worry or social embarrassment.

Three of Pentacles

Description
The Three of Pentacles depicts a mason working in a cathedral. Two monks (or a monk and a nun) hold drawings for him and they appear to be discussing the progress of the building project.

Meanings
The Three of Pentacles, like the Threes in the other suits, represents the initial completion of a goal or plan. In this case, the Three seems to imply the fulfilment and manifestation of a creative venture, business, or building project. The inspiration of the one is beginning to be concreted in the material world, and the decisions of the two have been made successfully. An initial satisfaction is now being enjoyed and the project is well underway.
However, the Three does not indicate the final completion of any project or venture but rather just the beginning. The number Three signifies the first manifestation of a creative union, the "coniunctio oppositorum" of which Carl Jung spoke. Just as a child is born to the union of two lovers, the creative idea is finally born when the conflicting desires of the heart are in equilibrium and when fear of failure is balanced with enthusiasm for potential success.
The message of the Three of Pentacles, therefore, is primarily one of encouragement. If you continue to work toward the fulfilment of your dreams and do not allow disillusionment to dampen your enthusiasm, ultimately you will experience prosperity and success in your goals. What new beginnings are you experiencing in the material realm? Is there some project or creative venture you have been putting off because of fear of failure? The Three of Pentacles indicates that dreams can be made real with persistence, determination, and effort.
Teamwork, planning and competence. The Three of Pentacles is one of the cards in the Tarot that focuses on the group. As Pentacles are grounded and practical, this card represents a task-oriented team - people who are working cooperatively toward a common goal. There are few jobs that can be accomplished alone. We need the help of others to achieve our goals. Be more productive by working with others. You don't have to do it all by yourself. Strive for planning and preparation. Now is not the time to rush into something or begin a project with only a vague idea of what it's about. You need to think everything through, go over all the possibilities and make sure you work out the details. Do your homework, and your undertaking will flourish. You have the skills and knowledge you need. Now attract capable people and create a successful environment. Be sure to concentrate on excellence in your work. Be proud of what you do and how you do it. Then you will accomplish your mission today, however difficult it may seem.
Work. You need to do work that is satisfying to you. Think of your work as tending your garden. You may need help. It may be beneficial to share your work with a partner, but only if they are as conscientious as you. In the TV show Mission Impossible, a crack team of specialists is always given a dangerous assignment. The team has to map out a strategy, coordinate resources and draw on their skills and ingenuity to complete the mission.
Skill. Work with others. Satisfaction. Practicality. Clear on priorities and commitments. Make most of talents, increase success through continuation of craft or educational pursuit. Promotion or increase. Use of skills to make profit. High achievement. Rising above friends and opponents equally. Being a subject of envy. Perhaps a move of house. Intellectual property. Practical work, done consciously and with commitment may serve as the vehicle for self-development. Plans. The Three of pentacles has all the skill necessary to accomplish your goals in life. You will have the ability to succeed in all your ventures. Want to get things accomplished and to improve the quality of your life or your work. You will have to revamp, redirect or make some alteration in your current work or plans.

Four of Pentacles

Description
The Four of Pentacles shows a man sitting on stool apart from a town which we assume is his own. He is crouched tightly and holds his pentacles or coins in a very defensive posture as though he were hoarding them for fear of loss. His eyes appear darkened from hard work but his mouth betrays the hint of a smile which comes from the self-satisfaction of his accomplishments.

Meanings
The desire for control is the hallmark of the Four of Pentacles. Some control is valuable. In chaotic situations, a firm hand is needed to provide structure and organisation. Too often, however, the urge to control gets out of hand, stifling creativity and individual expression. In readings, this card asks you to weigh carefully the level of control in your situation. The Four of Pentacles can stand for issues of ownership. You may be involved in getting and keeping money or some other commodity. You may be having problems with possessiveness or jealousy. Use the energy of this card to preserve and defend, but not to lay claim. They need to be free to determine their own lives.
The Four of Pentacles also implies blocked change. It's as if the stubborn little man on the card is thwarting your every move. Opposition may come from those who want to maintain the status quo. It may also come from within yourself. Are you resisting change that is truly needed? We often cling to the familiar even when we know it's not for the best. The lesson of the Four of Pentacles is that control is impossible. We stand in the world as in a great ocean. Who could manage or possess such power? The only way to keep from drowning is to ride the currents. The ocean will support us as long as we swim with the flow.
The four of pentacles represents a person that will not share anything in his life with other people. When assistance is needed, he will turn his back on the situation.
The Four of Pentacles indicates one of the dangers of prosperity: the temptation to value money far above its real worth. If wealth and financial success lead to a miserly or ungenerous attitude, then our psychological energy is in a closed or "contracted" state wherein nothing is perceived to have value other than money. This attitude is of course an expression of extreme attachment to the things of this world and is unhealthy in the long run simply because it is such an extreme point of view.
The Four of Pentacles indicates a person who is financially stable and secure with solid investments. This person is very conservative about money and is not inclined to gamble in financial matters. He is very protective of what he has and slowly and steadily increases his net worth through saving money and safe investments. He is self-sufficient both financially and emotionally, for he often equates money with emotional security.
Although this card shows a practical and financially stable person, it often shows possessiveness and an overly cautious approach to life. The client may be afraid to take risks, both financially and emotionally. He may be trying to be a rock and an island unto himself in exchange for security. The odds are that the client is vaguely unhappy and unfulfilled. Deep down he knows he has sold out for too safe an approach to life.
The Four is the card of the miser. His material possessions are on his head, representing that his thoughts are all about his "stuff". They are in his arms, indicating that they are not free to do anything else with his life. He can't go anywhere because his feet are busy holding the coins down. In other words, this man is so tied up with his possessions, that he can't do anything else. His possessions ARE his life. This is sad. Depending on where this card falls in a spread, it could be telling you to let go a little bit, and enjoy the other side of life (this is the card of the workaholic), or it could be telling you to tighten up a bit and not throw your money away. It could indicate a need to tighten your belt a little bit. Look at where it falls and the cards that surround it to get the true meaning here.
Awareness of personal value and worth. Stability, comfort and practical security. Possessiveness. Set and know limits. Could get good news from a woman, or "feminine" source. Possessions. Material stability. Financial problems will be overcome.. Money in bank. ownership. Structure, either through material things, or by turning emotional and mental energy inwards. Selfishness (which might be precisely what is needed). Dependence on material comforts and security. Need for personal security. Blockage.
Possessiveness. You need to hold on to what you have. Manage and guard it carefully. Things must be put in order and in proper perspective. Reflect on your self-worth and what is valuable to you. It is time to think like an executive.

Reversed
Here, the conservatism of the four of pentacles has turned to greed and stinginess. The client is haunted by a fear of poverty which impels him to be grasping and materialistic. He is extremely defensive and self-protective materially and emotionally, fearful of opening up and trusting other people. This card relates to poverty conscientiousness, no matter how much money that person has.

Five of Pentacles

Description
The Five of Pentacles, like the fives in the other suits, portrays a situation of adversity. Again, as with any card in the Tarot deck, the meaning of this card should not be taken completely literally. Here we encounter a destitute couple walking through the snow outside the stained glass of a church window. The man uses a crutch because of his crippled leg and the woman attempts to cover herself with her threadbare shawl.

Meanings
The Five of Pentacles may literally augur a time of financial strife and this possibility must be considered. However, other meanings of this card arise in connection to your psychological state at the time of the reading and your attitudes and expectations about money. Just as the Four of Pentacles indicated a psychological attachment to money and a tendency to over-value this means of exchange, the Five of Pentacles is also likely to indicate an inner difficulty with your relationship to money and material things. This card may therefore indicate a lack of confidence which is reflected in your self-judgement. If money becomes the primary motivating force in life and the gauge by which we judge our worth, the lack of its abundance may produce anxiety and a sense of being excluded from the good things money can provide. In addition, if we encounter financial difficulties such as the loss of employment or an investment gone sour, we may fall into the trap of losing faith in our ability to recreate a positive financial situation for ourselves.
If you encounter the Five of Pentacles in a reading, you should not only consider your actual financial circumstances but also your attitudes toward money. What fears do you experience about money? Is there anxiety that there will never be enough, or do you have faith in your ability to manifest what you need to live a prosperous, fulfilled life?
The Five of Pentacles indicates failure and loss. This is applied more with regard to material loss than personal losses. You will experience troubles, dissension and possible loss in your work or career, as well as difficult dealings with others; and/or a heated debate over papers or contractual agreements. Someone in your family will be unhappy about their finances, partner or an infidelity. The trouble is that you will be too emotionally exhausted to help or lend any comfort.
In readings, the Five of Pentacles can represent several kinds of lack. First, there is poor health. It is hard to tackle life's challenges when we do not have our vitality and strength. This card can be a signal that you are neglecting the needs of your body. You are moving away from complete physical well-being, so you must take steps to discover and correct the problem.
This card can also be a sign of material and economic setbacks. There is no doubt that life is harder when we lack money or a decent job. When we are struggling to make ends meet, all other problems are magnified. Even if we are comfortable, we can still feel insecure, afraid that misfortune will take away all that we have worked for.
The Five of Pentacles can also represent rejection or lack of acceptance. We are social animals and feel pain when excluded from our group. We want to be included, not only for our emotional well-being, but also for mutual support. Being rejected can mean physical hardship as well.
The Five of Pentacles relates to material lack, but it also has a spiritual component. From the stained glass window, we can guess that these two are outside a church. Comfort is so close at hand, but they fail to see it. The church symbolises our spirits which are perfect and whole in every way. We are meant to enjoy abundance in all areas of life, but sometimes we forget that this is our birthright. Whenever you experience hardship, know that it is only temporary. Look for the spiritual centre that will take you in and give you shelter. When this card isn't related to material problems, then it is a time of being alone, of feeling abandoned, of feeling ignored and unwanted. It tells of a need for support and comfort. This can be either giving or receiving.
Anxiety. You need to learn to cope with stress and anxiety. Worries can paralyse your actions until you face their source, focus on the present and do what you can with what you have now. Stress management is a vital concern.

Reversed
The Five of Pentacles reversed is about an end to difficult times. As the Five of Pentacles in the upright position is about loneliness, despair, loss, rejection, hardship and abandonment, the reversed Five of Pentacles signifies that this difficult period is coming to an end. You may be starting to feel as if life is worth living again and starting to regain your self-confidence. If you have experienced severe monetary problems or illness, these situations, too, are easing. A time for relief and breathing easier are at hand.

Six of Pentacles

Description
The Six of Pentacles is a difficult card to describe because it falls in the shadowy area between the lack of the Five of Pentacles and the affluence of the Ten of Pentacles. These two cards represent the extremes of not having and having. The Six of Pentacles covers the huge middle ground where it is not clear exactly who has what.
On this card, a well-to-do gentleman is tossing a few coins to a beggar while another supplicant waits to the side. The giver holds the scales of justice as if claiming the right to decide who deserves blessings and who does not. In this picture we see both sides: what it means to give and to receive, to dominate and to submit, to be on top and to be on the bottom. It seems clear who has and who hasn't, but is it? Life is not that simple, and how quickly fortunes change.
In readings, the Six of Pentacles asks you to look very deeply into the whole issue of what having really means both materially (resources) and immaterially (knowledge, power, love). You may see yourself on one side or the other, but this card asks you to reconsider. Think of the successful businessman who suddenly declares bankruptcy. The tyrannical invalid who dominates through weakness. The teacher who learns from her students. The parent who controls by giving money.
The keywords for the Six of Pentacles include both the have and have not sides of each meaning. Sometimes this card is a clear sign one way or the other. You will get the gift you want. You will have to defer to another. In all cases, though, you should question the obvious and go deeper. Why are you in the situation you're in, and where is it leading? Who is really in charge? What's really going on?

Meanings
The six of pentacles means balance and giving with regard to money and security. The giving of gifts and possessions. If describing a person it is someone who is generous and gives to charity.
Prosperity. Success. Physical attainment/accomplishment. Charitable attitude, sensitivity to others needs, sharing resources. Generosity. Money put to good use. Help from someone. Sharing, generosity and charity. Domination/submission, hierarchy. A force that holds together or reconciles the opposites in life. Although nothing is reconciled, but the situation maintains the balance and keeps it going). The scales are balanced, so he gives what he feels he will not miss. A person who relates easily to others, yet always holds back his or her deepest feelings. Giving people what they are able to receive. Putting yourself in a position to receive what you are able to receive. The concept of life providing what you need, as long as you are able to receive it. A person who dominates another, who gives, but also from a basis of superiority. There is an element of balance though, since the people involved are well matched.
The six of pentacles is the money in-money out card. It is often giving someone a loan, or a gift of money, you get some you give it away and it comes back to you. it can also be an act of charity, money is not stagnant with the card, it is moving. But be careful not to deplete your resources here. This can also be giving of yourself, a volunteer position or something like that. Also you could be on the receiving end of a gift like this with this card.
In readings, the Six of Pentacles asks you to look very deeply into the whole issue of what having really means both materially (resources) and immaterially (knowledge, power, love, etc.). You may see yourself on one side or the other, but this card asks you to reconsider. Think of the successful businessman who suddenly declares bankruptcy. The tyrannical invalid who dominates through weakness. The teacher who learns from her students. The parent who controls by offering money.
The six of pentacles will provide generosity and kindness to your situation resulting in gain for you. Another person will contribute to your efforts resulting in your success. Material gain may be indicated. Want what's rightfully or legally yours to be given back or to be reinstated in your profession or status. There ARE answers available and the key to solving problems is to stop thinking about them. This card follows appropriately upon the difficulties expressed in the Five of Pentacles. In the six, you as the questioner may be represented either by the rich merchant or by the beggars at his feet. In any case, there is a sense of peace and happiness about this card because it indicates the ending of the tribulation expressed by the five. The merchant represents not only the attainment of prosperity and financial stability, but also the experience of psychological peace in your relationship to money.

Reversed
Reversed, the Six of Pentacles can indicate theft, stealing of possessions or being unfair in financial affairs. Being cheated or used. In a relationship reading it can mean that one person is dominate over the other. There is a lack of real closeness.

Seven of Pentacles

Description
On the seven of Pentacles we see a man who has laboured long and hard in his garden. The foliage is full, the blossoms are out - it seems that his work has paid off. Now he's taking a break to admire his handiwork. How satisfying it is to see such fine results! How rewarding is sweet success!

Meanings
The seven of pentacles indicates success in all endeavours which require much time and effort. Despite the difficulty, your efforts will result in forthcoming rewards. You'll be dissatisfied with your progress and will experience anxiety about your business or financial state, and will want to be much more successful or solvent. You may be spending some sombre times at home.
The seven of Pentacles is a time-out card. It represents those moments after a rush of activity when we stop to catch our breath and look around. The man in the picture has paused simply to contemplate the fruits of his own labours, but he could also pick that fruit.
In readings, the seven of Pentacles can indicate a reward that will come your way, particularly as a result of your own efforts. Take it and enjoy. This card is also a call for assessment. When we're busy, we don't always have time to reflection what we're doing and why. Are we still on course? Are we getting the results we want? Serious problems can develop if you don't take stock at key moments. In readings, this card suggests that you take the time to be sure you're meeting your goals and expectations.
The seven of Pentacles can also indicate a crossroads. In life, there's a tendency to continue with familiar routines. To go in a new direction isn't easy. The seven of Pentacles may be telling you to figure out if you need a course correction, or even a complete about-face. You're not yet committed to a certain path, but you could be soon. Change is still possible.
The seven of Pentacles is not a card of endings or final decisions. The game is not over, but only on hold for a moment. Once you've gotten your breath back and checked your strategy, be ready to jump back in and work even harder than before.
Frustration. You need to cope with frustration. If hard work has not paid off as you planned, remember that expectations are almost always unreasonable. There are no guarantees. Be grateful, focus on the present and do what you can with what you have.
Profit, re-evaluation, re-direction, business enterprise - period of growth, consider possibilities. Fear of failure/success. Planning, slow growth. Long term plans will reach fruition, but patience is needed. Hard work which feels like it is not going anywhere. Be persistent. Being able to look back with satisfaction on something accomplished. Implication that whatever we have been building (including relationships) has reached a point where is can grow by itself, and the person can step back from it without it collapsing.
Want to be productive, make more money, or move on to something else entirely. You have what it takes, you just need someone who can help you get where you want to go, or put it all together. Hang on; help is coming.
The Seven of Pentacles portrays a young man taking a rest from the difficult work of harvesting his abundant crop. He gazes meditatively at the pentacles hanging from the rich greenery of the thicket in which he works and seems to be contemplating the value of his efforts. This card follows upon the Six of Pentacles which indicated the ending of a difficult period of financial or material difficulty. In the Seven of Pentacles, the situation is completely reversed and we now experience the rewards of hard work and effort. However, there is a decision looming in the air and this choice is at the root of the young man's contemplative expression. The question at hand is simply whether the rewards of hard work are in fact worth the effort to acquire them. It is often at the time of our greatest success that we realise what we desired so strongly is in fact somewhat disappointing.
In a reading, this card may mean fear of failure; delays; assessing past mistakes in order to learn from them; frustration, definitely, but learning a lesson from it; impotence, yes, from fear.

Eight of Pentacles

Description
On the eight of Pentacles a young man is hammering away at a coin. He has finished six and has another coin to go. It is clear that he is in the middle of a project that absorbs all his attention. He's isolated himself from others (the town in the background) in order to concentrate.

Meanings
The Eight of Pentacles is the card of apprenticeship. While the seven indicates a time of decision and the revaluation of our financial situation, the eight indicates that a decision has been made and a new creative venture is underway. An apprenticeship is a time of learning new skills, a time of beginning something which one has not previously done. In this sense, the Eight of Pentacles indicates that you are experiencing or about to experience a change or new beginning in terms of work, education, or financial circumstances. However, unlike many of the other cards indicating change or renewal, the Eight of Pentacles symbolises a concentrated determination to master the new skill being learned. Some of the cards that augur change seem to imply that the change will be chaotic, unstructured, or forced upon us either by external circumstances or psychological necessity. The Eight of Pentacles represents the single-minded effort of someone who has consciously chosen a new career path or creative undertaking. This card is the herald of success through perseverance and initiative as opposed to luck or the generosity of others, as is indicated in the Six of Pentacles.
If you encounter this card in a reading and are not currently engaged in the active pursuit of your goals, it may be time to ask yourself what you could learn or create to better yourself or your circumstances. If you are already engaged in the pursuit of new learning, the Eight of Pentacles may be a card of encouragement and reassurance that the energy you invest in your "apprenticeship" will be worth your while.
Self discipline, preparation. Patience, productivity. Moderation, Tree Of Knowledge. Application of talents, success at hand, which you have earned. Purpose. Small profits. Improvements in work life. Training that brings both discipline and skill, not just concentrating on the end result, but caring about the work itself. Also, the work needs to be related to the outside world (even though we are developing our own standards and instincts, our own self development, the work we do lacks meaning if it does not serve the community.) Learning. Development of skills which will result in profitable ends. Perhaps a new job.
Craftsmanship. You need to approach your situation like a skilled crafts person would. Study your subject, learn as you work, attend to all details with love and skill, and avoid perfectionism. Do not think about results or rewards.
In this scene we see the essential elements of the eight of Pentacles: hard work and attention to detail. This card often implies a time of great diligence and focus. It advises you to hammer away at the business of the moment, whether a work project, family difficulty, personal goal or unpleasant duty. Sometimes blessings fall into our laps to be enjoyed. Other times we must put out great effort to obtain them. The eight of Pentacles represents moments when you must give 100%. Just buckle down and do it. Fortunately, this kind of work is invigorating and leads to superb results. The labour of the eight of Pentacles is deeply satisfying and productive.
The eight of Pentacles can also symbolise the impulse to learn - to broaden horizons. Sometimes we need to develop new skills. We do research, dig out facts or search for expertise. The Hermit is looking for inner knowledge. The man on the eight of Pentacles seeks external knowledge - the how and why of the material world. This card can also show the need for meticulous attention. People who are painstaking are often dismissed as nit-pickers, but their extra effort ensures everything is as it should be. It's a matter of caring - taking the time to check the little details. Now is not the time to be slipshod or casual. Look for errors, and tie up loose ends. The key to success is an extraordinary effort. Whatever your task, the eight of Pentacles tells you to give it your all in every way.
Eight stands for symmetries, structures, repetitive and self-sustaining patterns. Eight is the wheel of the year--and how many billions of years has this clockwork been running on its own? Pentacles represent the body, the tangible and practical.

Reversed
Reversed, the Eight of Pentacles is the recognition that proficiency is the enemy of innovation. The eight of pentacles is perfection in a self-contained world, a world that needs nothing but perfect pentacles, one after another. But what if the rules change? What if our artisan is called upon to sing opera? Short circuit. Syntax error. If you need to take a risk, or to shift gears, the eight of pentacles can be a barrier card. It means you have to let go of the smoothness and predicability of doing what you've mastered, and be willing to make a Fool of yourself all over again
When in reversed position it indicates that the Querent desires financial rewards but is lacking the ambition and will needed to get them. He/she is too wrapped up in everyday concerns and worries to take the time out to gain more long-term security. Instead most of the Querent's energies are wasted pursuing short-term gains and rewards. This card in reversed position may also act as a warning against wasting energies on short-term securities, advising to become more like the boy in the card.

Nine of Pentacles

Description
The Nine of Pentacles is a card of prosperity and the solitary enjoyment of one's own accomplishments. The picture is of a mature woman walking in the midst of a vineyard. The vines are heavy with grapes and golden coins representing the fruitful accomplishment of all her desires. A falcon sits calmly on her left hand, symbolising her own intellectual and spiritual self-control. Far in the background is a large house, presumably belonging to the woman herself. There is a general sense of peace, satisfaction, and the fulfilment of a creative venture or personal investment in the image of the Nine of Pentacles. Unlike the initial satisfaction indicated in the Three of Pentacles, the nine represents a more permanent, lasting achievement as the result of one's own efforts.

Meanings
The nine of pentacles is caution and the ability to provide the situation and yourself with the security necessary to accomplish what is in your best interest. Want to promote yourself and/or form a (new) partnership or alliance. A situation will arrive that will lure, entice or beckon you on - a very tempting offer. And your wish for a union will soon be fulfilled.
Abundance. You need to be self-reliant, independent and free. Learn about your body and how Mother Nature provides all that is needed. Treat your health as your greatest wealth. Get out into the natural world and do your part. The woman on the nine of Pentacles is taking a leisurely stroll through the gardens of her estate. She is clearly a lady of refinement and grace, so it is incongruous to see on her left hand a bird trained to hunt and kill on command. Falconry is an unusual hobby for a gentlewoman, but it is the key to the special nature of this card.
On one hand, the nine of Pentacles represents all that is most gracious, high-minded and civilised. Art, music and other forms of beauty are very much part of our physical world (pentacles). Coins are present in this scene, but they are toward the ground. The business of life is important, but we don't have to focus on practical matters all the time. We can also enjoy the finer things of life. In readings, the nine of Pentacles can imply an interest in these areas. It is also a sign that you may need to reject the coarse or offensive and seek the highest.
The nine of Pentacles can also be a sign of discipline and self-control. This woman enjoys her cultured life because she has mastered her basic instincts. Her impulses work for her because they do not rule her. The falcon symbolises all that is dark and unruly in human nature. Our shadow side can serve us well, but only when it is directed.
Sometimes the nine of Pentacles suggests that you must show restraint and self-control if you are to achieve your best efforts. You may have to "sacrifice" for the moment, but the results will be worth it. This card is also a sign of self-reliance. Sometimes you must trust our own ability to handle a situation. Resist the temptation to let others do it for you. You need to take matters into your own hands. Our elegant lady has done just that. She trusted in her own grit and determination, and now she enjoys all the best life has to offer.
Tangible gain, relaxation. Peace and Security, Buying furniture. Good results - Harvest. Solitary Leisure. Large increase in income. Speeds up good cards on either side. Comfort. Relaxation after hard work. Connection with gardens. Discipline, sacrifice, self-awareness, knowing what matters in life. Self-reliance and a certain loneliness in pursuit of goals. This self reliance is often an indication that the Querent will make money working alone, especially in the comfort of his own home.
Nines represent personal integrity and completion, or the final stage of development. Nine is associated with the Moon - therefore dreams and delusions play a role in these cards. This final stage may bring certain problems with it, and past experiences and methods of coping become important here and are an intrinsic part of the meaning attached to the nines.
In a reading, the Nine of Pentacles indicates that you have reached a point in your life where you are feeling self-confident, and you are self-sufficient and able to rely on yourself. You have attained well-deserved success and may now enjoy money, leisure time, pleasure, and material comfort success and rest that is well-deserved. Appreciation is felt for what is now available, knowing that difficulties are over. This card denotes the ability to complete any work necessary through confidence in self-discipline and patience. The querent is in harmony with the nature that is around them. It is the luxury of leisure and solitude. It may also indicate your desire for these things if you do not already have them.
However, the Nine of Pentacles can also equate to having all the material success you want but not necessarily being happy with it. The woman in the card does not look very happy, and the symbols of the walled garden, the bird (representing captivity) and the snail (representing something rotten nearby) indicates not everything being what it seems. Perhaps she is some sort of "trophy wife" who married a successful man who wanted a decoration rather than a companion. If this is the case, she is probably very lonely because she would be unable to associate with her husband or his friends, her servants, or childhood acquaintances either. While she has everything that money can possibly buy, what good is it if no one will relate to her as a friend or equal?

Reversed
In its reversed position, the Nine of Pentacles suggests that you may be suffering from financial setbacks or experience a loss due to unwise decisions or foolish actions. Your foundations may be about to give way. If they do, learn from your mistakes and build a more solid and secure foundation next time.

Ten of Pentacles

Description
The Ten of Pentacles is a card of culmination and final fulfilment. The image depicts an aged, wise man sitting comfortably just outside an archway leading into a town. He is surrounded by his family and his dogs and wears a rich robe decorated with images of grapevines, crescent moons, and other symbols. Behind the laughing couple under the arch, a young boy reaches playfully to pet one of the dogs. This card is a symbol of financial security, accomplishment, and comfort. The patriarch is able to rest and enjoy the fruits of his labours in retirement while he looks on at the lives of his children and grandchildren. Here we have someone who has accomplished a great deal during his life and is now able to rest in the satisfaction of knowing that what he has created will provide value and joy to others even when he is gone.
On many cards, we see a cluster of buildings off in the distance. In the ten of Pentacles, we finally arrive in that village - in the middle of the marketplace. The family we see is carrying on the affairs of everyday life.

Meanings
Protection. You need to make your base secure. Draw support and protection from your past ties and rich family traditions. If you invest conservatively and do not gamble, your success is assured. You may found your own dynasty.
The ten of Pentacles stands for the ultimate in worldly and material success. This is the card you want to see if you are wondering how your latest enterprise will turn out. Wealth and affluence are yours. When we achieve material success, we naturally want it to last. This is the conservative, establishment side of the ten of Pentacles. Why rock the boat when life is fine just the way it is?
In readings, this card often stands for convention - following established guidelines and maintaining the status quo. Fat cats are rarely radicals; they love tradition and the tried-and-true. Sometimes it is important to trust the known ways, but only when change is inadvisable. The ten of Pentacles is also concerned with permanence. Change is an unavoidable part of life, but constant change is uncomfortable. We need stability and the chance to work for a secure foundation in life. In readings, this card may be telling you to concentrate on the long-term. Work toward a lasting solution. Now may be the time to settle down and make the arrangements that will work for you far into the future.
Wealth, good life, health. Riches abundance. Traditions, inheritances, Gift. Inheritance of land. Wealth. Good family life. Family property. Marriage, continuance of family traditions. Not to take things for granted.
The ten of pentacles provides much prosperity and security in your life. It is applied mostly toward the home environment. Thus, your home or family life will make you happy and secure. There will be discussions concerning travel, schedules, or marketing new groups or unions and philanthropic endeavours. You will talk about future events, projects or trips; and if someone in your family has been planning to travel, unexpected changes will cause them to rearrange their plans or return sooner than expected.
Ten is the number between completion (nine) and new beginnings (1). Its like a spring board. The wealth has been secured, and its that breathing space before you take your next step. Pentacles are solid, earthy, heavy, not emotional, inspirational or mental. Pentacles are the essence of the earth, and of manifestation in the "real" world. Shopping, eating, gardening, earning and spending money. The things that happen on the material plane that ground you. Combining these two ideals then, one can indeed say that ten of Pentacles is about reaching that comfortable space where things have been achieved and rewarded and we have a time to breath before we start our next adventure.
The ten of pentacles shows how family, or even extended family is important. Traditions, safety in numbers, the wisdom learned from our elders. Being a part of something bigger than we are and realising that the blood of our ancestors courses through our veins, and we are someone important. We're not just little insignificants lost in the world, we are integral parts of society and family. We are one.
Structure. And we can find safely and comfort in this structure, this thread of heritage. We have history and we have potential. In a Celtic cross reading, position one, this card could indicate that the querent has these family issues on her mind. Issues of security, children, stability, blood-being-thicker-than-water type feelings.

Reversed
Reversed, this card is about failure on the financial level. This card indicates financial loss, problems with investments, and lack of resources. Despite a lot of time and effort, there seems to be no foundation for future success. In some cases, this card represents the problems of money, such as fears about finances and quarrels over property, as finances become an impediment to the enjoyment of life. It could indicate that you are beset with financial burdens and responsibilities.

Page of Pentacles

Description
The Page of Pentacles is a young man who stands alone in a field full of freshly blossoming flowers. Behind him in the distance to his right is a grove of lush trees, probably fruit bearing trees of some sort, and to his left lies a newly furrowed field which promises an abundant harvest. The page walks slowly as though he were unaware of anything around him other than the golden coin which seems to float in his hands.

Meanings
Practicality. You need to concentrate on the communication of practical matters, useful information and values. Trust your natural instincts. A new business idea is near. Take notes and make lists. Keep records and receipts safe and secure.
In readings, the Page of Pentacles offers gestures of prosperity. He encourages you to sample the wonders of the Pentacles suit - wealth, abundance, security and solid achievement. Look for an opening that promises enrichment, comfort, trust or the chance to make your dreams real.
The Page of Pentacles can also stand for a child or young-at-heart adult whose relationship to you involves stability, trust, commitment, safety and material needs. This card can indicate pleasure and real-world enjoyment. As a child, the Page of Pentacles encourages you to have fun with your body, skills and possessions in a light-hearted way. Revel in the delights of being alive on the Earth at this time.
Physical description - dark haired person. Young, even a child. Introvert. Tanned complexion. Personality traits - hard working, practical and careful with money, but not stingy. Artistic, scholarly, enjoys material and sensual pleasure (but hasn't had financial success yet.) Conscientious. Sense of duty. Patient.
The page of pentacles has the desire to learn all things. He is dedicated to knowledge and the attainment of wisdom. He is devoted to all in which he is engaged. He has great concentration in his interests. At this moment, you may feel that there is nothing you can do that will lift you out of the slump you're in, but someone or something is going to come to your aid and brighten your spirits. You will want to cancel your plans with your family, or will have to postpone.
The Page of Pentacles, like the pages of all the suits, is a card of new beginnings, of inspiration and the initial stages of a creative project or venture. The young man is absorbed by the coin in his hands which represents his goals and dreams. Pentacles correspond to the alchemical element of earth, and in this sense the coin may symbolise the beginnings of sensual awareness not only in terms of money and its value, but also in terms of a growing awareness of the importance of health and other material needs.
The Page of Pentacles is a card of dreams and the desire to fulfil those dreams in the material world. If you encounter this card in a reading, there is an indication that you may be in the midst of a new undertaking such as a hobby, business venture, or the beginning of a new educational experience. In any case, the page is a sign of enthusiasm and desire. He does not indicate the fulfilment of dreams as much as the initial motivation and energy to begin the process of creating those dreams in reality. This is a card of encouragement; castles in the air may be beautiful in theory, but now is the time to begin to put foundations under them.
The Page of Pentacles can be used to identify an intelligent young person, a scholar, a young person who enjoys learning new things. When the Page of Pentacles represents a new event, this event will more than likely be concerned with the querent's material welfare.
In a reading regarding spiritual issues, the Page of Pentacles could indicate a new dimension added to the querent's spiritual life. An event that will bring a certain richness that the querent hasn't enjoyed before. The Page of Pentacles could also indicate a new beginning of a material nature, such as a new and unexpected source of income, the sale of a project. Some readers interpret this card as meaning a change for the better.
Pages tend to see only one side of a topic - and they're totally enthused with the prospects. Pages can be thought of as inexperienced - since experience usually teaches us to look at the big picture. Unfortunately, experience often leaves us jaded and unwilling to take chances or try new things - which is why it's good to exercise the aspects of a Page from time to time. Pentacles usually denote material or physical things - this might be money or work-related, but it could also be other material things.

Reversed
Reversed, the Page of Pentacles suggests we stop daydreaming about new things - perhaps it would be better to pay attention to matters at hand.

Knight of Pentacles

Description
The Knight of Pentacles, like the knights of the other suits, represents work, effort, and the responsibility that follows upon the dreams of the page. Whereas the Page of Pentacles walks sleepily through his "field of dreams," the Knight of Pentacles sits upon a heavy plough horse in the midst of that same field. In his hands he too carries a single gold coin, but his eyes reflect careful thought and consideration rather than the dreamy gaze of the page. The knight is engaged in the often toilsome, routine efforts required to realise the dreams of his heart. He is building the foundations to support the castles the page has built in the air. The Knight of Pentacles, representing work and effort in the material realm, sits quietly upon his horse unlike the knights of the other suits who ride with careless energy toward their goals. This card is a symbol of care, diligence, and responsibility in the world.

Meanings
The knight of pentacles is a person with the patience to accomplish all his tasks. He is reliable due to his sense of responsibility. If you are dependent on the efforts of someone else to help you accomplish some goal in life, they will prove trustworthy. Want the kind of personal fulfilment that only love or the grace of God can bring and to enjoy the simple things in life and all they have to offer. Your efforts will be rewarded in more ways than one.
This guy is active in a maybe boring but very persistent way. He is loyal and patient and will help you finish what you started, diligently. He is very much about fulfilling obligations.
Reliability. You need to be a part of the implementation of a new business idea. Be trustworthy, reliable and a good provider. Speak seriously and only if you have something to say. Beware of being preoccupied with gain and possession.
On the positive side, the Knight of Pentacles is like a bulldog. Once he bites down, you can be sure he won't let go. He's dogged in pursuit of his goals. A hard-worker, he has tremendous stamina and dedication. Every job is always completed down to the last detail. He's careful and prudent, never wasteful. He knows the facts and is immune to false promises. On the negative side, this Knight is a bit stodgy and dull. He's not known for his playful sense of humour. Work always comes first. He tends to be inflexible and obsessive about little details. Stubborn to a fault, he refuses to give in even when wrong, something he'll never admit. He doesn't like change or risk and will always take the gloomiest view.
In readings, a Knight of Pentacles shows that his cautious style is (or could be) impacting the situation in some way - as an aspect of you, someone in your environment (man or woman) or the atmosphere in general. Ask yourself, "Is this Knight's energy helping or hurting?" If this Knight's style is evident, then balance is needed. Excess is only helpful in short bursts. Are you working too hard? Do you refuse to listen to reason? Do you have a perfectionist in your life? Is the atmosphere around you one of gloom-and-doom? It may be time for a change. If this Knight's energy is missing, a dose of prudence may be called for. Balance your life by moving toward him...at least a little. Are you spending too much? Maybe it's time to slow down. Do you give up too soon? Dig in and refuse to quit. Is your work often careless, late or incomplete? Next time resolve to work up a sweat and get the job done. Let the Knight of Pentacles introduce you to his world of care and persistence.
Physical description - dark haired young person, dark eyes. Personality traits - takes action to make positive change. Committed to security. Hard working and responsible. Very serviceable person. Conscientious, yet dull. The Builder Of New Worlds. Conventional, leaves nothing to chance, accepts responsibility easily. Trustworthy and steadfast.

Queen of Pentacles

Description
The Queen of Pentacles depicts a solitary woman, much like the one appearing in the Nine of Pentacles. However, the Queen represents fruitfulness and satisfaction to a greater degree than that expressed in the nine. Here we have the Queen of sensual enjoyment, an earth mother similar to the Empress of the Major Arcana. She sits on a throne decorated with carvings of fruit trees, goats, angels, and other symbols of material success and sensual pleasure. The tree above her and the ground beneath her feet are rich with flowers and ripe plants of all sorts and she holds in her hand a single golden pentacle, which represents her material richness. At the very lower right-hand corner of the card a rabbit, the symbol of reproduction and fertility, darts out from behind some bushes.

Meanings
The Queen of pentacles represents prosperity and security. The security can be either financial or physical. There will be generosity demonstrated and you will find freedom associated with this security. Want to establish yourself TO yourself, to find your 'centre' or place where you belong, and for words (prophecies) or ideas to come to light. Keep following your star and you will get your wish. You may have to wait but what you want WILL come.
Good Fortune. You need to protect your good fortune and that of those you care about. Parties that provide you with social connections can greatly benefit you. Patronise the arts and enjoy your riches as best as you can. It will pay off. The personality of the Queen of Pentacles combines the positive earth energy of the Pentacles suit with the inward focus of a Queen. Here's what she is like: If you were to visit the Queen of Pentacles, the first thing she would say is, "Come in, come in. It's great to see you. Have a bowl of soup!" No one is more welcoming and nurturing than she. Her greatest pleasure is to care for others - making sure they are happy and secure. Her home is always overflowing with children, pets, plants and footloose friends. She is warm and generous to all. In day-to-day matters, she is sensible and practical. She doesn't have a lot of time for elaborate plans and other craziness. If something needs doing, she just takes care of it without a lot of fuss and bother. If necessary, she makes do with little and always comes through in a pinch. There is a down-to-earth, matter-of-factness about her. She is always loyal and steadfast. Because she is trusting by nature, others trust her completely. When you are hurting or in need, the Queen of Pentacles will calm your fears and share your troubles.
With Queens, the emphasis is on your inner state. The Queen of Pentacles is not a real, many-sided person, but she does express an ideal of a certain type. In readings, she asks you to think and feel as she does. For example: Are you feeling warm and caring toward others? Are you being sensible? Have you been true to your word? Do you feel generous? Can you be counted on when times are tough? This Queen can also represent a man or woman who is like her, or an atmosphere of warmth, trust and security. In a reading, she tells you that her special energy has meaning for you at this time. Let yourself be inspired by this Queen in whatever form she appears in your life.
The Queen of Pentacles expresses practical energy. She is the original Earth Mother. She's the one with the rows of home-canned goods on the shelf in the root cellar. She is able to work a full-time job, take care of the children, keep the house clean, and still have time to read the financial section of the Wall Street Journal. She probably has a little nest egg tucked away in a few bank accounts that no one knows about. Her style of mothering is practical. The punishment always fits the crime. Colour on the wall? Here, take this wash cloth and clean it up. All done? Good. It's forgotten. You will be responsible for your own actions, and she will make sure of it.
Physical description - dark haired woman. Large, strong constitution, cheerful. The ultimate mother. Personality traits - she is secure, wealthy, enjoys luxury, and abundance. Generous and sincere, but lacking sparkle. Matronly. Good head for business. Sometimes moody, generally very caring.
Pragmatic, sensuous, generous, abundance, practical, astute businesswoman, secretive, financially adept, good mother, nurturer, reserved, wealth, protective of her territory, endurance, stability, spinning and weaving, full of potential, power of prophesy, second sight, common sense, deviation, ancient tradition of earth magic, physically fit, strength, hard working, pleasures of the body, caring for and pampering the body, enjoyment of luxury, dignity, grace, prosperity, steadfast, good organiser, prosperity, harmony, regality, devoted, affectionate, warm hearted, management skills, enjoying the fruits of labour, comfort, fertility, parenthood, love of all living creatures.
Community life, takes responsibility willingly, love of nature, happy giving material help in demanding situations, shrewdness, ownership, steady employment, steady progress, evolution, voluptuous woman, material goods, all the good things in life, benefactress, emotional maturity, provider, philanthropist, display of wealth, practical wisdom, creativity, crafts, Great Mother, actions speak louder than words, confidence, down to earth, loves fresh flowers and good food, both feet on the ground, nurturer, a team player, family woman, tactile, indulgences, gifts, forgiving, firm foundation, sensible, environmentalist, bestower of life and bounty, unconditional love.

King of Pentacles

Description
The King of Pentacles is the card of worldly success, ultimate fulfilment, material satisfaction, and high ambition. He sits upon a throne decorated with carvings of bulls and vines and his robe is covered with embroidered grapevines rich with fruit. At his feet and all around him are vines, flowers, and plants of all sorts, representing the highest attainment of material success. In his right hand he holds the sceptre of his power and in his left he holds a golden coin, symbolic of his material influence. Behind him is his castle, the symbol of all he has built through his efforts and determination.

Meanings
This card is the representation of the final fulfilment of a creative task, business venture, or investment. Here we see a King who has reached the pinnacle of his financial power and influence and is able to rest assured of his continued prosperity. He is no longer required to struggle to achieve what he desires, like the page and the knight, and is able to accomplish anything he wants because he has already proven himself.
A loyal and trustworthy man may be too methodical to gain complete success. In other cases, it is the symbol for wealth. The wealth may come in the form of associates, money or knowledge. As a talisman, it is symbolic of luck. Want to make money, be more successful and/or to unite or re-unite with someone. The standstill will be overcome, and/or a reunion is at hand.
Physical description - dark haired man. Manager, financier, crafts person, businessman, farmer. Usually married. Mathematical gifts and attainments of this kind, yet normal intellectual aptitude. A devoted friend. Has considerable responsibility. Responsible and trustworthy. Slow to anger, cares deeply for family. Not very demonstrative, has quiet energy and purpose. Makes a vigorous opponent. Practical realist, considerable wealth, shrewd, yet unpretentious despite wealth.
Pragmatism. You need to be pragmatic and play the political game well. Interact comfortably with everyone, no matter what his or her status. Get down to basics. Learn to be natural by watching the way of animals. Working with your hands benefits you. The personality of the King of Pentacles is a combination of the positive earth energy of the Pentacles suit and the active, outward focus of a King. Here's what he is like: The King of Pentacles might as well be called King Midas as he turns everything he touches to gold (riches of all kinds). He finds opportunity everywhere and succeeds at whatever he sets his mind to. He is enterprising and adept. Whatever the task, he handles it competently, drawing on his wide range of skills and practical knowledge. He's a Jack-of-all-Trades - and master of all as well. He is always dependable and responsible. Others rely on him completely because he never fails them. He gives generously of his time and resources because he knows that by giving more, you receive more. He encourages others in their accomplishments and lends his support whenever it is needed. He has a steady, even temperament that adds an element of stability to any situation. When he has set a goal for himself, he pursues it with firm resolve until he's successful.
With Kings, the emphasis is on behaviour. The King of Pentacles is not a real, many-sided person, but he does express an ideal of a certain type. In readings, he asks you to take the kinds of actions he might take. For example: keeping a commitment, fixing something that's broken, making money, or sponsoring a new enterprise. This King can also represent a man or woman who is acting as he does, or an atmosphere of steady, reliable competence. In a reading, he tells you that his special energy has meaning for you at this time. Let yourself be inspired by this King in whatever form he appears in your life.
Abundance, security, ambition, power, stability, fathering, gentleness, financially stable, finds the right path, good at math, discipline, trustworthy, control, husbandry of land and animals, reliable, grounded, takes care of his body, acclaim, status, health, inner strength, thoroughness, sensual, wise man, understands earth ways, conservationist, environmentalist, contentment, generosity, upholds folk tradition, calm, protector of the young, pleasure, harmony, nature lover, fertile, masterful, successful, earned through hard work, secure income, attuned to the seasons, integrity, good provider, practitioner of ancient arts, sound investments.
Patient, material goods and properties, concerned with real estate, ownership, prosperity, hood harvest, wealthy, steadfast, confident, balanced, well established leader, persistence, stern, rocklike, hard worker, tenacity, diligence, an authority, business, practical, earth's bounty, loyal, uses common sense, conscientious, archetypal ancestral wisdom, slow but steady, can be counted on, a man for all seasons, farmer, methodical, primal, custom, responsible, head of the family, patriarch, tribal leader, concerned with arts and crafts, works with the hands, generous, worldly.
The King of Pentacles is seated in the midst of his many possessions. To this King, it's not who you are or what you think or do that counts - it's what you own. While he is an extremely hard worker, conscientious and reliable, and a great financier, this man has little in the way of imagination. He only believes in what he can see, touch, hear, taste or smell - anything else is highly suspect as far as he is concerned. He is a good provider, and an excellent husband and father, so long as his authority is not disputed. While basically good-natured, he wants to be King of his own castle and expects to be treated as such. He has high expectations of family members and may have trouble relating to his children if they do not think and act as he does. This is the sort of man who will automatically assume his children will one day take over the family business - that they may have other ideas will simply not occur to him.
When this King shows up in your reading, look at your life. What are you feeling 'stuck in a rut' about? Are you feeling like the Alchemist, or do you feel a need to transform some part of your life into gold? Is this another person, or do you think it's an aspect of yourself? Be careful not to get stuck in the mud. Having your feet on the ground is a good thing, but everybody needs to lighten up once in awhile and stick their heads in the clouds, even if it's just for a breath of fresh air.

Reversed
Grasping, dull witted, ignorant of art and beauty, bumpkin, dominating, materialistic, greedy, poor business sense, a loser, preoccupied with money, he who dies with the most toys wins, fraud, dishonest, rude, dogmatic, stupid, impractical, crude, workaholic, end justifies the means, every man has his price, stubborn, dogged, pornographic.
This is a man who will do anything for money. He is impressed by other people's status and social position, and may be a snob to others while trying to carry the favour of those he considers above him. Reversed this can be either a workaholic or an extremely lazy man who expects others to look after him financially. He may care only for his possessions, and uses other people to gain them. There is also a possibility of familial abuse, or he may be someone who marries for money, leaving the person only when he has gone through all of their resources.

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LEARN THE TAROT LINKS

Learn The Tarot

Learn The Tarot-The Major Arcana

Learn The Tarot-The Suit of Cups

Learn The Tarot-Suit of Swords

Learn The Tarot-Suit of Wands

Learn the Tarot (The Minor Arcana-The Suit of Cups)

2009-08-21T13:42:00.024-05:00

Tarot Lesson 2

MINOR ARCANA
The Minor Arcana consists for four suits, each with 14 cards. The Minor Arcana reflect the day-to-day activities in our lives.

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The Suit Of Cups

Ace Of Cups

Description
This card has numerous spiritual symbols represented. The hand appearing from the clouds represents the "breaking into" our consciousness of spiritual energy and influence. The hand holds a single cup or chalice which overflows with five streams of water. The five streams represent the abundance and power of the spirit and the effect of spiritual energy upon our five senses. A dove with a wafer or host in its mouth descends from above signifying the incarnation and appearance of the spirit in the material world. Below the hand is a great sea covered with lotus blossoms, a symbol of the awakening of the human spirit.
A grey sky, perfectly clear except for a white hand, with opened palm holding a golden yellow goblet. From this goblet is a flowing fountain of five streams of water and 25 yods which fall into a pond of lotus (red water lilies in bloom). The water is calm with very light ripples. The white hand comes from ruffled clouds appearing to be part of a very decorative delicate sleeve. Above the bright yellow goblet is a white dove facing down with a white circle decorated with a cross in the middle. It appears that the dove wants to drop this Host into the flowing cup. The cup has an upside down M or a W inscribed on it. The white hand has radiating rays all around it. You must always trust your inner feelings as it is an inner voice and your heart will lead the way. This is your intuitiveness and power talking to you.

Meanings
Bliss, open yourself to supreme happiness. Emotional upsurge, power of imagination, budding sexuality, engaging another, spiritual love or psychic ability, art, first love, closeness, lover, friendship, renewal, water of life, relationship, inspiration, awakening, nurture, abundance, happiness, peace, nourishment, protection, vulnerability, tenderness, fulfilling, good will, fertility, sensitivity, production, higher call. Compassion, receptivity, devotion, romance, marriage, loving union, reaping the fruits of what you have sown, openness, spiritual vision, the Grail, redemption, regeneration, satisfaction, female principle, imagination, close attachment, intimacy, rebirth, recycle, regrowth, changing, open channel, sentiment, sympathy, empathy, anticipation, longing, being filled, depths, offering, hope, recreation, chalice as womb of life, pleasure, beauty, sensuality, promise. Intuition, purity, calm, unconditional love, primordial, productiveness, excitement, premonition, emotional release, love at first sight, happy home, goodness overflowing, light in the dark, contentment.
The Ace of Cups represents the home and general environment. There will be joy in your life with the fulfillment of all your ambitions and desires. Much happiness will be found in your contentment. You are searching for clarity, or for the truth in a situation where your heart says one thing and your intellect another, and/or hope an idea will become a reality. Your ideas will meet with success.
The Ace of Cups depicts the emergence of spirituality and the awakening of a new awareness of spiritual life.
There is a chance for a marriage either with love or in business partnership or new contract. Positive air is flowing and it is time to forgive and make up. This is a peaceful time in your life so use it and make this peace with friends or yourself. It is time of fertility, a time for child bearing. Perhaps an adoption should be considered.
It is a time of giving rather than taking. You will have your turn as the old saying goes, "You get what you give." If you give prayers, He will hear. There are many rewards in the near future outlook when you get the Ace of Cups in a reading. The rewards are said to be in the giving.
This Ace is all about deep emotions and generosity. Feel good when his beautiful card appears. It is your lucky day!
Medically this suit refers to the Urinary (kidney and bladder problems) and Reproductive Systems. Water comes to us in the form of blood, tears, urine, perspiration, saliva, and sexual juices. A lack of water can bring about a dried up feeling (stiffness both emotional and physical), lack of moisture in the body, non-flowingness with life, difficulty with dealing with emotions and with others who are emotional.
Close relationships, the family, lovers, rivals, premonitions, fears, memories, nostalgia, and most of all water is our unconscious.
A huge cup is being offered to you in this card, and you are being invited to reach out to grasp it and drink from it. What this cup is representing is a symbol of emotional fulfillment, not just on the emotional level, but on the spiritual level as well. Whether you are going to reach out now and partake of this offering is going to depend obviously upon how thirsty you are, upon how much you are in need of being refreshed.
What this card is pointing at is the need for you to carefully define what it is that you want from the new offer of friendship or love which seems to have made its way into your life. It may seem at first glance as though what you are being offered is what you have been waiting for: this card is saying that it is just a bit too early to be able to say. What you are going to have to do is wait and see. Often this card comes up for someone who has just gone into a new relationship, or to whom an offer of love and/or friendship has been made. Or, it can simply mean that you are beginning to relate to people in a new and infinitely more responsive way - transcending much of the jealousy, possessiveness and emotional negativity of the past.
In readings, the Ace of Cups shows that a seed of emotional awareness has been planted in your life although you may not yet recognize it. When the seed sprouts, it could take almost any form. Inside, it might be an attraction, strong feeling, intuitive knowing, or sympathetic reaction. Outside, it could be an offer, gift, opportunity, encounter or synchronistic event. When you see this Ace, examine your life to see how its loving energy could work for you.
This card often means that love is the essence of the situation. It may or may not be romantic love. Look for ways in which you can begin to connect with others. Do you have someone to forgive, or do you want to ask for forgiveness? Can you set aside your anger and find peace? Would you like to drop your reserve and let your feelings show?
The Ace of Cups tells you that your time is coming. This card also suggests inner attunement and spirituality. Cups are the suit of the heart, and the Ace stands for the direct knowing that comes from the heart. Trust what your feelings are telling you. Seek out ways to explore your consciousness and your connections with Spirit. Allow the power of your emotions to guide you in new directions. Embrace the spirit of love that is the Ace of Cups.
Abundance of love. Joy, celebration. Love with wisdom. Fertility. Marriage, declaration of love. New love, inspired creativity. Artistic excellence. A love affair. Marriage, birth. A blessing from out of the blue. Someone cares for you. A gift, especially of love. A gift of a ring.
The Beginning of all good things, whether it be love, joy, beauty or health, a new spiritual understanding. Merriment and celebration of some sort.
You need to experience the feeling of a new love or of giving and receiving unconditional love. Give and accept love on a new level. Open your heart and let emotions move you. Your loving ways will magnetize love to you.

Reversed
Upright, this card represents the feeling of when we are about to burst with all our overflowing emotions, whether it be with complete laughter or tears. Sometimes you get so excited you could bounce around the house screaming out in ecstasy. Or sometimes the pain surrounding you is so great that all you can do is burst into tears. The reversed Ace of Cups is therefore the opposite to this feeling of bursting emotions, and can mean one of many things.
Firstly, the card may call on you to curb your emotions somewhat for your greater benefit. For example, ending a relationship may spur you on to wanting to cry and cry for days on end. But what the Ace of Cups reversed tells us is that in order to heal, we really need to push back the tears and fight on in order to retain a balance.
Alternatively, the Ace of Cups could suggest that you have repressed your feelings too long and it is now the time to release them. You may have kept your excitement quiet about the prospect of a new job, in fear of it failing, but now is the time to let those emotions run free. Or, you may have bottled up so many emotional thoughts that you have become almost void of feeling true emotions.
Which end of the scale does the Ace of Cups represent to you? Do you need to hold in your emotions right now, or release them?
False heart, inconsistency, barren, poor choice of partner, loss of love, being rejected or betrayed, broken heart, divorce, loneliness, separation, sadness, thinking only of one's self, toying with emotions, bruised emotionally, loss of hope, fatigue, unstable emotions, stuck in an emotional rut, in love with love, puppy love, gullible, unrequited love. Hesitant to accept things of the heart. Egotistical false heart.

Two of Cups

Description
A man and a woman are gazing at each other, ready to share their cups (emotions). Here is the very picture of romantic and sexual attraction. The energy between these two is almost palpable.
The card depicts a man and a woman exchanging cups in a wedding ceremony with the caduceus of Hermes between them. The caduceus has been used since ancient times as the symbol of physicians and healers. The symbol is a staff with two snakes wrapped around it topped by a pair of wings with, in this instance, a lion's head between them. The two snakes represent dark and light and their coexistence within us. The wings symbolize the spirit and the lion represents matter and the material world.

Meanings
The Two of Cups indicates partnership, engagement or friendships. The card is indicative of marriage, romance, passions and emotions. A partnership may be indicated. You will experience love and harmony with your sisters or brothers even if you've had a falling out in the past.
You will want to move out of the proverbial small pond and into the sea; and to reach a larger audience, where visibility or public demand will ensure success.
The Two of Cups shows the beauty and power that is created when two come together. This is the card that lovers want to see, and, in fact, the Two of Cups is the Minor Arcana equivalent of the Lovers in many ways.
The Two of Cups has a deeper meaning as well. Whenever two forces are drawn together, there is the potential for bonding. This card can stand for the union of any two entities - people, groups, ideas, or talents.
In readings, the Two of Cups tells you to look for connections in your life, especially those that are one-on-one. Now is not the time to separate or stay apart. It is the time to join with another and work as a partnership. If you are in conflict, look for truce and the chance to forgive and be forgiven. If you are struggling with two choices or tendencies within yourself, seek to reconcile them.
Usually, the Two of Cups is welcome in a reading, but it can also sound a note of warning. The energy of Two can be very compelling. They create between themselves a world of their own that can feel exclusionary to outsiders. "Two's company; Three's a crowd." Make sure that the tendency to pair off is not creating disharmony in your situation.
New relationship, awareness, trust, perceptions, harmony, empathy, marriage, engagement, romance, passion, sharing, contract, pledges and promises, reconciliation, working toward common goals, moving toward permanence, agreement, happiness, social union, faithfulness, mutual care, understanding another, union, cooperation, courtship, platonic love, constancy within change, freedom. Consummation, proposal, intimacy, reciprocity, yin/yang, polarity, union of opposites, confidence in another, joy and contentment, kindred spirits, equality, attraction, sacred union, sacred marriage, harmony, integrity, equilibrium, free flowing, cooperation, working together, cementing a friendship, bringing opposites together, making peace, forgive and forget, attraction, being drawn in, concord.
Cementing relationships. Commitment. A union, a partnership. A marriage, an engagement. Love and understanding between two people. Harmony (opposites attract). Co-operation. Friendship, ending of rivalry.
You need the clear, nurturing, supportive and heartfelt exchange of emotions that is the gift of a romantic relationship, though a good familiar or business relationship may do instead. Learn what romance really means.

Reversed
Out of balance, troubled relationship, divorce, misunderstanding, lack of trust, inappropriate or unreasonable expectations, break up, separation, false friend, opposition, unrequited love, discord, incompatibility, holding back, isolation, repressed anger, quarrels, emotional pain, betrayed confidence, disillusionment, overindulging in sensuality, infatuation.
Loss of balance, violent passion, a misunderstanding with someone the querent values highly.
Two's generally suggest some type of beginning or initial exercise involving the aspects of the suit. Cups suggest intuitive and emotional aspects (okay, including romance). At a simple level, this card could suggest a possible new friendship or a renewed relationship. Since this card is reversed, it also suggests some type of inhibition or distortion regarding the basic message -- perhaps a reluctance to expose your feelings.

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Three of Cups

Description
Three of Cups has three maidens/women on it. Each with a wreath on their head, each with different colored eyes. Brown-haired maiden, blue eyes has a wreath of pink pansies, spring. Blonde-haired maiden has green eyes with a hydrangea wreath, summer. The black-haired maiden had brown eyes with a Yule wreath with berries. There is a table in front of them, with three Chalices, and half eaten fruit. They are wearing beautiful robes.
The Three of Cups is a card of celebration and accomplishment. The three young maidens dance in a circle with their golden goblets upraised in a toast of joy. The ground is covered with fruit and there is a general sense of abundance and happiness.
On this card, we see three women dancing together in a circle. Their arms reach out to each other to connect their feelings (cups). In many settings, women create and nurture the social glue that bonds people together. These dancing women are a symbol of coming together in love.

Meanings
The helping of others in a time of need, a good work atmosphere, a good friendship, accomplishments with the support of such friendship.
To know the Three of Cups is to know new things that regard the emotions. All around a good card where money, relationship, work, and spirituality are concerned. The cups overflow with these qualities. The oneness of friends.
Good fortune in love. Happy conclusion of an undertaking. Querent is sensitive and sympathetic to others.
The Three of Cups indicates the end or conclusion of any problems in the past. A compromise will be found which will serve all the interests of those involved in a struggle. There will be time to relax after the compromise is implemented. Since you will be unable to control external conditions, you will realize that you must change internally, and will want to revise your attitude and the way you react or deal with what is happening. Realize what it is you're striving for or what you want to represent and know the supply will meet the demand. Whatever you choose will be the right choice.
The number three typically suggests the initial completion of a project or venture and in this case suggests a wedding celebration, the birth of a child, or the successful initial fulfillment of a goal. However, despite the completion or satisfaction offered by the number three, this card also suggests a new beginning; the celebration is only the start of a long and possibly difficult journey.
You need to feel filled with gratitude for life's gifts and to celebrate with those you care about. Pay attention to the quality of your food and drink. This is a time when enjoying yourself is as important as working hard.
There are three cards in the Tarot that focus on the group - each from a different point of view. For the Hierophant, it's the formal approach. For the Three of Pentacles it's teamwork and for the Three of Cups, it's emotions. What does it feel like to join with others? What is friendship and community? These are the questions answered by the Three of Cups.
In readings, the Three of Cups can signify a friend or the feelings associated with friendship. This card can represent community - the network of support created when we interact with others. It can be any group in which the members feel a bond. When you see the Three of Cups, examine your attachments to the groups in your life from an emotional point of view. Consider reaching out to give or receive help. This card stands for all forms of support, including formal aid such as counseling and other social services. The women on the Three of Cups also express joy and high spirits. Such feelings are not limited to groups, but can be especially strong there. Celebrations spontaneously arise when people feel connected, loved and secure. The Three of Cups can stand for a mood or experience that makes you feel like dancing and singing.
Success. Friendship. Communication, enjoyment of others, celebration, music, pregnancy. Good fortune. Celebrations, happiness, re-unions, Parties and meetings which lead to love affairs and flirtations. Pregnancy or birth. Ills are haled. Attendance at weddings and christenings likely. Shared experience.

Reversed
Pleasure turns to pain. Beware of an old friend gossip. Don't over-indulge in food and drink. Abundance may turn to nothing and success may turn to ashes.

Four of Cups

Description
The Four of Cups depicts a young man sitting under a tree far away from the city or the commerce of others. His face bears a look of discontent and he is faced with a choice among the four cups before him. His arms are crossed in vexation and indecision and he appears confused and uncertain. The three cups at his feet represent the World and its attractions, the cup appearing from the cloud is the attraction of the Spirit and the inner life. This young man and his predicament suggests the story of the Buddha under the Bodhi Tree, contemplating the state of the Universe and unwilling to rise until he has reached the Truth.
On this card, we see a man who is unaware of the cup being offered to him. He misses this gift of love because he's completely tuned within.
We encounter a young man, possibly a young woman, sitting cross-legged and cross-armed on a grassy knoll under a tree. Three full cups sit in front of him and a fourth cup is being offered to him by a small hand coming out the sky through a cloud. He is not taking the cup and indeed appears to be paying no attention to it whatsoever.

Meanings
The Four of Cups indicates a time of uncertainty and decision and a turning inward to find the Truth for which one is searching. The young man turns his eyes from all the cups, not only the ones representing the World. In this sense, he indicates the need to look deep into our Self to discover the answers we seek. External influences can be distracting and may not lead us to the goal we seek even if those influences purport to be of a spiritual nature. The young man is involved in the difficult process of Individuation which Jung speaks of and which can only occur in the solitude of his own spirit.
When you encounter the Four of Cups there is a sense that it is time for a reevaluation of your situation and a need to look deep within your own psyche to find understanding.
You need to re-evaluate things. If you are bored or dissatisfied with the status quo, avoid distractions and examine your heart of hearts to gain clarity. "Crying over spilt milk" or saying, "I told you so" is not attractive.
Those who enjoy kayaking and other river sports know that there are areas of the river where the water flows in a dangerous circular motion. Instead of moving forward, it turns back on itself. Such a spot can be almost impossible to escape from. In the same way, we can get stuck in emotional hydraulics. The Four of Cups represents such periods of self-absorption. If you are self-absorbed, you refer everything back to your own interests and desires - nothing much gets in or out.
In readings, the Four of Cups can indicate that you are caught for the moment in your own reveries. Sometimes you must focus on yourself. When demands are too great, you need to devote time and energy to yourself or you will feel swamped. The Four of Cups can also represent a positive period of self-reflection and renewal. Be careful, though, not to continue this soul-searching for too long. The Four of Cups is sometimes a sign of apathy. You don't care much about anything, and yet you feel discontented too. There is no movement forward. Nothing pleases and nothing satisfies.
In readings, the Four of Cups can show that you're stuck emotionally. You need something to focus on that will so engage your mind and heart that your path down river becomes clear again. Sadly, you will feel least like doing this when you are apathetic. Be aware of this problem, and open yourself to your surroundings. Soon you will be on your way again.
The Four of Cups means disappointment in someone or in a situation. You may become tired of the same old struggle that has been carried on too long in the past. The end result may include disappointment in the final result.
Your business will increase and/or a commission, assignment, or offer of employment is on the horizon. You will be disheartened by some and supported by others, and a member of your immediate family may soon have to travel.
One avenue of interpretation is that of apathy or indifference. That a complete satiation has occurred and the man cannot be tempted no matter how attractive the situation is that the cup is offering. Rather like the bringing out of the loaded dessert cart filled with mouth-watering delicacies, just after an equally mouth-watering full-course meal has just been consumed. The awareness is there that the taste would be fantastic-- but just not at that time. No interest is generated. Not that it would not be of interest at a later time.
Another interpretation is that of defensiveness. This can be noticed in the body language displayed in the crossed arms and legs of the man. He may not be sure of what the cup has to offer. How would it change his life if he accepted it? Possibly he had been hurt emotionally before, as this is the suit of cups, and he is fearful to expose himself to that again. He has not rejected the cup either. This card is therefore saying that a new opportunity, possibly a romance, is being presented at this time. It is the time for contemplation, research and meditation. The cup will continue to be there and the decision to accept or reject it can be made later when all of the answers are in, and it feels right emotionally. No immediate action is required.
The querent wants or needs a job or new source of income, or has an obsessive desire for someone or something. No matter what it looks like now, there is still an avenue for fulfillment.
A Pause. Discontent. Boredom. Tested relationships through negative attitudes. Considers an affair. A difficult situation caused by someone trying to do well. Stability in relationship. Familiarity breeds contempt. A new start needed to renew spark. New interests, activities and friends are needed. Tested relationships.

Reversed
New relationship now possible. There is a desire for work and accomplishment and new goals.
There is a good possibility that an offer will come your way, but you must work hard to go out and get it.
You are missing an opportunity that is sitting right under your nose! Look around you to see opportunities you may have missed.

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Five of Cups

Description
The Five of Cups is a card that signifies difficulty, loss, and the challenges of dealing with that loss. The figure in the card wears a black cloak in which he hides his face in apparent despair. At his feet are five cups, three of which have fallen and spilled onto the ground and the other two behind his back which remain standing. Ahead of him a powerful river flows between himself and a castle or home in the distance. To his right is a bridge which can lead him to the security of the house across the river. Despite the fact that this card has a strong indication of loss and tribulation, there is a positive aspect that must be considered. Is your cup half full or half empty?

Meanings
The Five of Cups represent unfulfillment or non-attainment of expected results. You may lose something, though it is insignificant in itself. Perhaps relations with friends or lovers have weak foundations. You'll be completely burned out and will want to quit or give up. You've done enough and won't want to do anymore. You and a relative (or very dear friend) will soon part, and you will be very sad. You want a friend or lover to return, or a REAL relationship based on tenderness and mutual enchantment. Nothing less. Something will replace or sublimate the emptiness you feel.
The Five of Cups is about loss. On this card, we see a figure draped in black and covered in grief. He dominates the card so much that it is hard to look beyond him. The Five of Cups refers to that time when the pain of a loss is most acute. This man is looking only at the over-turned cups in front of him. For now, he cannot acknowledge the two cups that are still standing. Later, when he has healed somewhat, he will be able to see all that remains.
In readings, the Five of Cups can alert you to the possibility of a loss and its associated emotions - sorrow, regret, denial. The loss could be great or small. It could be tangible (money, possession, relationship, work), or intangible (dream, opportunity, prospect, reputation). You may already know what this card represents, but, if not, use it as a warning to help you avoid a loss, or at least reduce its toll.
You may feel discouraged by this card, but it does have a positive side. Every loss opens new possibilities for growth because every loss initiates change. Loss hurts because it is our emotional resistance to change. No matter how much we accept intellectually that we must go with the flow, if that flow separates us from what we love, our feelings say, "No!"
In a story from Zen Flesh, Zen Bones, the master Hakuin is falsely accused of fathering a child. His reputation in the village is ruined, but he accepts this loss and takes tender care of the child for a year. Suddenly, the real father appears, and Hakuin willingly yields the child to its parents, accepting loss again. We who are not Zen masters may not flow quite so lightly with events, but we can learn from this story. The more we struggle to hold on to what is gone, the more we suffer.
Sorrow, loss of a loved one. Marriage is on verge of breaking up. Disillusionment with life. Possible inheritance, but not as much as expected.
This card pertained to "crying over spilled milk" and pessimism about the future. It often refers to a person who is having difficulty letting go of the past and benefiting from past mistakes. The water spilled from the cups shows that the cause for regret is more emotional than financial. Often, this card relates to a person who habitually dwells on the past, harboring old grievances. Forgiveness and the ability to recover after emotional loss are necessary. Bitter memories from the past continue to obsess this person. Often a great deal of the blame for past actions is placed on himself.
Advise the client to let bygones be bygones. Tell him that hindsight is much clearer than foresight and present-day wisdom is gained from the mistakes of the past. If he can understand that all parties involved were doing the best they could with their awareness at the time, he can forgive himself.
Emotional disappointment, (also in friendship) depression, anger (usually based on past experiences) - all exaggerated. Deep regrets, temporary delay. Loss of harmony, but love is still there. An unexpected reaction to Querent. Loss of relationship, hurt. Card urges you to stop crying and look in another direction for happiness. Get over hurt, and then pick up remaining cups and carry on.
Disappointment. You need to understand rejection and disappointment. You may feel that you must walk away from someone or something. Realize the ways your disappointment gains you experience that can help to ensure future success.

Reversed
Return of hope, new alliances formed. Loved one could be returning to you. Summon up that courage.
The reversed position shows recovery from regret and an acceptance of the past. Now, the person realizes the full implications of the past and appreciates the lessons he learned from the experience. He may even recognize the value of the painful experience in the broader scheme of things in preparing him for later experiences. He is ready to pick up the remaining two cups that are full of the water of emotional growth and go on.
This card is about learning to be open and starting to take risks again. It is a card of a lingering sense of regret, nostalgia and bittersweet memories, but the card itself speaks of being hopeful for the future, getting over whatever you need to get over, and of seeing the sun peek through the clouds once again! If you have suffered a broken romance or marriage, this card signifies an end to the suffering, and a beginning to new loves and relationships, new interests, and new emotional outlets. You are starting to engage with the inspiring, creative and feeling side of life again.

Six of Cups

Description
There are six cups filled with five pointed flowers. These flowers are all white. A young boy seems to be smelling one flower and seems to be offering this filled cup to a friend. Everything is bright yellow which indicates great happiness. There is much going on in the background, perhaps someone working or doing his thing. It is a perfect sky on this day. The neighborhood is not a poor place, as a matter of fact it looks average or above. I think that the two friends have know each other for some time and it is not a new acquaintances. They are sharing old pleasures with lots of nostalgia. Perhaps there may be an inheritance.

Meanings
You may be trying to escape into the past where you are remembering happy and beautiful. This card depends on the others, can mean an old friend coming back but the relationship will be new and different. You can't make the past again, just learn from it. Or maybe you should explore the ancient traditions of your own people rather than of other cultures.
The card may indicate being at the center of something positive, ie family or friends, work relations. The flow is constant and even, warm and glowing. The number six can indicate a journey or movement and when it appears with cups (feminine, fertile, love, beauty) it can indicate a birth, growth, inception. The subject of the reading is likely to be at the center of attention.
A keyword I have for this card is "remembering." Whether that be through wistful nostalgia, news or a visit from the past, or thinking of another by giving a peace-offering or a gift (perhaps remembering someone's birthday).
A card of the past and of memories, looking back, as, for example, on childhood; happiness, enjoyment, but coming rather from the past; things that have vanished.
Meeting with a childhood acquaintance who has a gift for you. Happiness and enjoyment come from the past. Pleasant memories. New surroundings and opportunities. Possible inheritance.
Pleasure from the past, happiness, balance and peace, memory or renewal of past, gifts, friendship. Success after struggle. Memory, links to the past (old friend or lover may turn up soon) Childhood. Past efforts to be rewarded. The answer in question lies in a similar situation in the past. Possibly a move of home, closer to origin. Sentimental value.
Joy. You need to experience child-like joy. The child you were still lives within you and must be cared for. Allow yourself positive, nostalgic memories of childhood, friends and family. If you can, spend time with younger people.
In the film Parenthood there is a scene in which all the members of a large family come together to witness a birth. As the camera moves from person to person, we see as if for the first time the uniqueness of each one. The people talk and laugh, but their actions seem anything but ordinary. There is a sweetness in the air that builds until we see its very embodiment - the new baby. This is the spirit of the Six of Cups.
The Six of Cups is a card of simple goodness. It encourages you to be kind, generous and forgiving. The Six of Cups also represents innocence - a word with many shades of meaning. You can be innocent in the strictly legal sense of lack of guilt. You can be innocent of the truth - unaware of some secret. You can be lacking in deceit or corruption - innocent of ulterior motive. Finally, you can be virtuous or chaste. These are all possibilities that can apply to the Six of Cups, depending on the situation.
Notice that the two figures on the Six of Cups appear to be children. Often this card represents a baby or young child. In a larger sense, it embraces all of childhood and the feelings we associate with youth (ideally!) -being carefree, playful, secure and loved. Children are our treasure, and the sweetness of the Six of Cups is a quality to be treasured as well.

Reversed
Having impure or sneaky motives. Feeling jaded, cynical or bitter. Not taking time out to 'play'. Feeling abandoned and/or unloved. Feeling that you've missed out on a happy and loving childhood. Encountering serious difficulties at a young age. An unhappy home life. An abusive parent or guardian. Child abuse. Family rifts and problems. And old friendship that turns sour. Being told that you can't have children. Death of a child.
Living in the past instead of the present. Disappointment over inheritance.

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Seven of Cups

Description
The Seven of Cups depicts an individual faced with the mysterious appearance of strange images from cups in a floating cloud. Though the character's back is toward us, we can see from the half-raised arm-gesture that the apparitions before him are something of a surprise. The various "prizes" appearing from the cups are a mixture of positive and negative visions. Jewels, a snake, a laurel-wreath, a dragon, towers, a shrouded person and a woman's head. The character faced with these specters is taken aback by their confusing nature.
The correspondence for this card is Venus in Scorpio. On the tree of life, this card is Victory and Venus.

Meanings
This card indicates that we are faced with a time of decision, that the images in our minds must be dealt with not only in our dreams but in the world of reality. The character in the Seven of Cups is a dreamer who is able to see beauty and excitement as well as fearful trials and difficulties in the future. If we are constantly caught up in our own dreams, fantasies, and/or fears, we will never be able to move forward and make those dreams a reality or overcome those fears.
This card indicates that though dreaming is beautiful and provides inspiration for action, we must at some point abandon our "castles in the sky" and begin to build those castles in our real life. A choice must be made even though the apparent multiplicity of options seems to paralyse us with either fear or excessive anticipation. If you are unable to make a decision because of too many options, it may be time to carefully evaluate the pros and cons of each option and make a thoughtful choice. Castles in the sky are a home for no one, but dreams made real are the fulfillment and expression of our inner creative energy.
The Seven of Cups speaks of letting go. Letting go of a former relationship, workplace, project. When the seven of Cups appears, it is important to look carefully at how disordered your situation sometimes has become. It may have turned in a chaotic situation where some tightening may be necessary. It is easy to wish for something, but not so easy to make that wish come true. A choice, and a sacrifice will have to be made. Tighten up your life and commit yourself to doing what it takes to reach your goals .. even if it means the offering of life, of mind and limb.
Notice the death's-head on the cup with the laurel-wreath! The soul sees that this implicit offering is crowned with laurels. Let the boundaries of your own humanity not hold you back today.
The Seven of Cups says, "Yes, order and hard work are nice, but ... isn't it more fun to just let everything go?" Letting everything go is what the Seven of Cups is all about. It is easy to worship the gods of efficiency and neatness. We like trim lawns, alphabetized filing systems and time management - the world of the Emperor. We admire order in all its forms and want everything to be just right. The seven of Cups provides the balance.
This card stands for all that is sloppy, impractical and lax. When the seven of Cups appears in a reading, it is important to look carefully at how disordered your situation is. Is everything too controlled and regular? Perhaps you need to let things fall apart a little. When a rigid system breaks up, there can be a tremendous release of creativity. The man on the Seven of Cups is amazed by the many options he has.
On the other hand, if you are in a chaotic situation, some tightening may be necessary. No-one is happy and productive in a crazy environment. Regularity gives structure to life. Taken to an extreme, the looseness of the Seven of Cups can lead to harmful patterns of decadence, self-indulgence and addiction. Sometimes the laziness applies to your thoughts and dreams. It is easy to wish for something, but not so easy to make that wish come true.
When you see this card, make sure that you are backing up your plans with work and effort. Tighten up your life and commit yourself to doing what it takes to reach your goals .. even if it means (sigh) cleaning house.
Illusion. You need to separate what is real from what is illusion. Protect against unclear or wishful Thinking. Learn the power of your sleeping and waking dreams. Avoid intoxication and escapism. Do not decide until you are sure.
Imagination Working overtime, inability to choose direction in life. Selfish indulgence in dreams instead of action. Illusory success habitual day dreaming.
Many directions available - make priorities clear. Over indulgence, illusions, moods, negativity, "You get what you think of", imagination. Misuse of talent. Choices. A decision has to be made, lots of options to choose from. Make decision careful, all is not what it seems to be. Doorways of opportunity use intuition to know which one to go through. Pipe Dreams.
Seven of cups is a wish card. Each of the cups are filled with wishes such as wealth, beauty, Peace, and a nice home (castle). You can also see that there is a cup with a snake and a cup with a demon. Showing that wishes can go a rye. Many people may consider this card a good omen. This in reality can be a mixed blessing; be careful for what you wish for you may just get it, and with a price. As you can see that the cup standing for peace (olive branch) there is a skull. There may be peace but at what or whose cost?
The seven is more of a "pie-in-the-sky" type dreamers card. Sometimes, people "dream" things they don't want into reality. Hence, the "bad" things coming out of the cup. Take, for instance, (this is a true story, by the way) the guy who had a nice Cadillac with chrome wheels and leather interior. For some odd reason, all he was concerned about was somebody stealing his radio antenna!! One day, sure enough, someone stole his antenna!! He manifested his reality (that someone wanted his radio antenna enough to steal it). That's one aspect of this card. Guard your thoughts well.
Another thing to remember is that sevens always indicate change of some sort, and cups symbolize the emotions, so look for the change to affect you emotionally. Concentrate on positive change. The change you hold in your thoughts is the one that will manifest, for good or ill.

Reversed
Good use of determination and will. A definite project will be selected.
This card could indicate an unwillingness to deal with the day-to-day reality of life, a caution to get your head out of the clouds.

Eight of Cups

Description
The Eight of Cups is another card of change and transition. The card evokes an immediate reaction of sadness and a sense of solitude. The young man in this card has turned his back on all he has accumulated or accomplished before. He is disappearing by night into a barren and difficult terrain with only a cloak on his back and a staff in hand.
There is a general sense of dissatisfaction arising from a realization that the things we have fought and struggled to attain may not be as satisfying as we had hoped they would be. This card resembles the card of the Fool in that the main character is embarking on a journey, yet there are significant differences in the attitude and feeling behind these two cards. The Fool is already at the top of the mountain and is carelessly stepping off the edge. He is naive and inexperienced and begins his journey as an adventure.
The character in the Eight of Cups, on the other hand, has lived and experienced life's joys and sorrows. His journey is undertaken because of a sense of restlessness and unhappiness experienced as the result of achieving all he has desired, yet finding those things to be less fulfilling than expected. This individual has chosen to forsake the familiar and the comfortable in the pursuit of higher goals. He is embarking upon the spiritual journey because he has not found deep satisfaction in the things of the world, the things with which he is familiar.
On the eight of Cups, we see a man leaving on a journey. He has turned away from his old feelings (cups/river) to strike out on a new path.
In the eight of cups, we see a person walking away from a stack of cups. It obviously took some effort to build up those cups, and stack them so neatly. Why has this person turned their back on them? There is nothing for him in the direction he is walking. All we see is barrenness. Everything he has worked for is behind him.

Meanings
If you encounter this card, it is time to ask yourself what you can do to bring a deeper satisfaction and joy to your life beyond the obvious pursuit of material satisfactions and/or physical enjoyments.
Nothing is permanent in life. Sooner or later, everything slips away...or we slip away from it. The eight of Cups stands for those moments when we realize, once and for all, that the past is gone. What was true is no longer true. It is indeed time to move on. Moving on can mean a physical change such as leaving a job, location or relationship. It can also mean an inner change - releasing old patterns, especially those that have dominated our thoughts and emotions.
Sometimes moving on can mean searching for a deeper truth or reality. One day we wake up and realize that we have been asleep in our own lives - living a dream that no longer satisfies. Some changes can be wearying. Endings are not always easy. One of the signs of a readiness to leave is lack of energy. When you feel tired and dispirited, you know that something is wrong, and it's time for a new direction. Reexamine your life and your priorities. You will find where in your life you need to move on.
Retreat, withdrawal, self-pity, over-giving, over-extending. Honor your limits. Too much caution, not enough faith, doubts about success. Hesitations think more positively. Fed-up. Unjustified dissatisfaction. New path in life. seeking. Don't be afraid to leave the past behind. There's plenty more in the world to see. Don't be disillusioned, the future promises to be brighter. Follow your heart, do what you desire. Disappointed with accomplishments, dissatisfied. Take a break and make a change. Weariness. The fluidity of water, i.e. the self, knows when, despite a situation being good, it is time to leave, especially to move in a direction which is more "air-like", more in touch with reality, i.e. away from emotions.
Sacrifice. You need to be more aware of the physical, mental or emotional sacrifices that are or will become involved in the present situation. You may need to seek a cause more worthy of your efforts and sacrifice. You need to heal.
The eight of cups is the decline of efforts made toward the attainment of something desired due to disappointment in the results received thus far. The card also denotes shyness or modesty. Your business will expand or your skills will be sought after or in demand, but there will also be a personal loss. You will do a favor for a friend or relative who is planning to travel, or you will make tentative plans to get together.
When this card shows up, it indicates a person disappointed enough to walk away from everything he has built up. It could indicate a disappointment in love, or a dissatisfaction with material success. It could also indicate that the person has overextended himself to the point of exhaustion. I would caution the person to slow down and take it slower before he gets totally burnt-out.
The astrological correspondence for this card is Saturn in Pisces. Saturn is the planet of discipline. Pisces is the sign of the fish-- water; emotions. This is saying to slow down and set some limits on the emotions to avoid overextending yourself to the point of exhaustion.
Rejection of material life. Disappointment in love. Desire to leave material success for something higher. Wish is fulfilled but not to the degree you want it to. Seize the day to gain honor.
Don't understand the situation you're in or why things are the way they are, and want to know if there's anyone ''up there'' who's listening or cares. Whether you see it or not, you're being given the opportunity to rise above your habitual or instinctive response patterns and if you make a conscious attempt to do so, they will lose their grip on you.

Reversed
Search for pleasure. Interest in success, joy, feasting. A new love interest appears on the horizon. Spiritual abandoned for the material.

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Nine of Cups

Description
In this card a portly, satisfied man sits with his arms crossed in contentment. Behind him is a wall with nine golden goblets arranged in a structured, well-organized fashion. He enjoys success both materially and spiritually and represents the fulfillment realized after the accomplishment of our deepest desires.

Meanings
The nine of cups indicates good health and much success. There will be a situation which will provide for your best interests. Material gains could be part of your attainment as well as emotional support in life. Your work will start off bright, then turn dark, and then bright again. Don't worry, after a slight retrograde, you'll see material gain or a good outcome. An emotional issue concerning the care or treatment of another will be discussed.
The man on the nine of Cups reminds me of "the cat who ate the canary." Now, a canary is a pet strictly off limits to hungry felines. Any cat who manages to catch one is going to feel pretty smug about it. This is the feeling tone of the nine of Cups - pure indulgence and self-satisfaction.
At the physical level, the nine of Cups is a sign of delight in all the senses. Sights, sounds, tastes, feelings. This card encourages you to seek out pleasure and enjoy your body in every way. You can commune with the natural world as well - the body of Mother Earth. She, too, delights in sharing her abundance.
At the personal level, the nine of Cups indicates contentment with the way things are. Notice how the man is seated confidently with his arms folded and a smile on his face. He has everything he wants and couldn't be happier about it. "See all my cups!" he seems to say. "Aren't they great?" Sometimes it's wonderful to sit back and revel in the knowledge that all's right with the world, but a word of caution. You may be tempted to indulge yourself at the cost of someone else (like our mischievous cat!). This may feel great at the time, but sooner or later the feathers around your mouth will be discovered, and regret will set in. Pursuit of pleasure without regard to consequences is never satisfying in the long run.
In many tarot traditions, the nine of Cups is known as the Wish Card. It shows your wish will come true. A wonderful prospect, but remember your fairy tale lessons. You must be sure you know what you really want and accept the responsibilities that go with your wish. If that is the case, then enjoy your good fortune!
Want personal fulfillment or gratification and to 'keep the faith' in the ultimate workings of good, despite appearances to the contrary. The past is not a barometer, so don't resign yourself to 'that's the way it is, and it will never change'.
Nines represent personal integrity and completion, or the final stage of development. Nine is associated with the Moon - therefore dreams and delusions play a role in these cards. This final stage may bring certain problems with it, and past experiences and methods of coping become important here and are an intrinsic part of the meaning attached to the nines.
Fulfillment The Nine of Cups represents stability and advancement. This is a card of great success, especially material success. It represents triumph, victory, and financial well-being. The enjoyment of good personal relationships, love and friendship, as well as comfortable material circumstances are indicated.
This card reflects happiness which is either health, finances, work, luck, love or relationship. Your desires will be fulfilled, and this fulfillment will bring with it much satisfaction and contentment. This is the traditional wish card, so whatever the querent desires here can be theirs -- however, everything does come with a price, and they should be careful what they wish for because they are likely to receive it!
Achievement, satisfaction, wishes fulfilled, self-indulgence, happiness. The Wish Card. Excellent social life. Parties, good friends and fun. Good health, happiness and popularity. Fulfilling relationships, ease of communication. Contentment.

Reversed
The nine of cups is a card of satisfaction and wishes. Now, when it is reversed, it suggests that you may be disappointed that your wishes are not materialising. Perhaps there are a lot of desires that you have and hope for from this life, but there is some frustration because these aren't being fulfilled.
A further element of this card is that the man is seated, looking smug that everything is already around him. Your wishes may not be materialising due to some inactivity. You need to get up off that seat and get those dreams you really want.
In the reversed position, the Nine of Cups can point to disappointments due to imperfections and mistakes, smugness, overindulgence, greed, superficial or materialistic values, shallowness, gluttony, and excessive preoccupation with gratifying your own desires, often times at the expense of the needs of others. It can also indicate ill-fortune due to over-indulgence in food, alcohol, or drugs and the consequences that come with it.
It can also point to a wish that is not yet fulfilled, perhaps because it is desired too intensely or the querent is sabotaging their own efforts.
Sometimes this card shows up reversed when the person being read to is going through a depression or lack of self-worth.
Material success, assured future. Physical well being. A love of sensual pleasure. Querent will get wish. Satisfaction with life.
Lack of material goods and money. Overindulgence in food and drink. Things will eventually go your way if you really try.

Ten of Cups

Description
On the Ten of Cups we see a loving couple with their carefree children. The family home is in the background surrounded by trees and water. A rainbow of cups is overhead blessing the scene.

Meanings
The Ten of cups is indicative to a good family life. Happiness, joy and contentment will dominate your life. The time will be made for the enjoyment of pleasures which may be shared with another person whom you love. There will be correspondence connected with your work that will involve mail, phone calls, or special application. You will get a long distance call from a relative, or you will make one.
A cynic might scoff at this romantic picture, but I see it as a symbol of what our emotional life could be at its best. The feelings represented here are an ideal that is within the reach of reach of us. First, there is joy. Joy goes beyond happiness, contentment, enjoyment. It is the feeling that comes when we know at the deepest level that we are one with All that is, and It is good. Unfortunately, this is not exactly a common feeling! Too often we are blinded by the trials of life and overwhelmed by their challenges. Joy exists, though, and is our birth right.
Peace is another aspect of the Ten of Cups - the serenity that comes when all elements are in harmony. There is inner peace and outer peace which are reflections of each other. When you are in harmony with yourself, you experience harmony in your environment. When you see the Ten of Cups, know that an end to hostility is possible. If there is fighting around you, it may cease. If you are at war with yourself, you may find peace.
In readings, this card often signals a time of abundant blessings. It tells you that you can reach for the fulfillment you deserve, and it will come to you. Look for ways to realize joy and create peace. You may find the key to happiness in your family. Your family is the group of people that you are attached to emotionally - for better or worse! If there is trouble in your family right now, work to restore harmony. The time is right for greater closeness.
Happy family life. True friendships. Lasting happiness inspired from above. Perfection of love and friendship.
Success. You need to be more aware of how successful and respected you are. You will never gain more than you have now until you empower yourself by appreciating what you have done. Success is really how you define it.
Peace, domestic happiness, wholeness, completion, optimism. Successful development. Friendship, companionship. Family happiness that will last. Group activities denoting fun. Everything will work out for the best. Happy endings.
The Ten of Cups represents a satisfaction and joy much like that experienced in the Nine of Cups. The difference, however, should be quite clear. The Nine of Cups represented personal attainment whereas the Ten of Cups represents the satisfying fulfillment of love in relationship with another. This card is a very positive card in terms of relationship and may indicate either the beginning of a new, very happy relationship, or the ultimate satisfaction of a long-term relationship. Commitment and love are the requirements of such satisfaction, yet this card promises that with the required effort a lasting love can be built.

Reversed
A family quarrel, a loss of friendship. Chance of betrayal. Young people may turn against their parents.

Page of Cups

Description
The Page of Cups, like the Pages in all the suits, represents some sort of beginning or renewal. The young man stands alone at the seashore with a single golden goblet in his hand. Surprisingly, a fish pops its head out of the cup and the young man's face. The young man simply expects to raise his cup for a toast or a drink, and instead is confronted with the ominous appearance of a fish which even appears to be speaking to him. Thus, inspiration is seen to be something which comes upon us most unexpected.
The Page of Cups is a fellow, who is somewhat effeminate in appearance. He is dressed in a blue tunic with floral print all over it and sports a bohemian type of beret on his head with a long, flowing scarf attached to it. He holds in his right hand a golden chalice with a fish peering out of it. He also wears a pair of boots, while standing in the sand with a body of water, that appears to be a flowing, like a wavy sea in the background.

Meanings
The Page of Cups signifies the beginning of creativity or the start of a new project or creative venture. It may also signify the beginning of a new relationship or the dawning of a new perspective on a difficult situation.
The fish, in Christian terms, represents Christ or Christ consciousness. In other mythological systems the fish often represents the unconscious, the spirit, or the life force within us. The Page of Cups indicates the surprising and unexpected nature of inspiration that comes to us from the realm of the unconscious and the spirit. Inspiration is seen to be something which comes upon us most unexpectedly and often in a manner which we do not understand.
If you encounter the Page of Cups in a spread, it is an indication that there is creative energy trying to burst forth into your consciousness. The unconscious is trying to speak to you, possibly through your dreams or through synchronistic encounters with significant people. The message to be taken is that you must be open to the unexpected, occasionally bizarre impulses of the creative spirit and not shut out inspiration simply because it does not fit in with a rational point of view.
The Page of Cups is Cupid. In readings, he offers gestures of the heart. He encourages you to sample the wonders of the Cups suit - love, romance, feelings and the inner life. This Page tells you to look for an opening that stirs your emotions, pulls at your heartstrings, or promises great joy. The Page of Cups can also stand for a child or young-at-heart adult whose relationship to you involves emotional needs, moodiness, expressions of love, intimacy or inner connections. This card can indicate joy and positive emotion. As a child, the Page of Cups encourages you to explore love and inner development with light-hearted abandon. Feel free to express and enjoy your feelings.
Tenderness. You need to concentrate on the communication of tender feelings, hunches and dreams. You are "pregnant" with romantic ideas and idealized fancies. Balance logic and intuition and you will see them both in your life.
A physical description - light brown hair, fair complexion, blue eyes. Good Looking, pretty.
Personality traits - studious youth, loving friend, not a lover, could be a person with a youthful frame of mind. Helpful, very reliable, but not strong, and could be dependent on Querent. They offer service to you, want to be of help. Gentle, loving, artistic, insightful. Girl - tomboyish, boy - feminine. Emotionally vulnerable and needs affection.
Gentleness, sweetness, kindness. Someone who is interested in poetry and the arts, dreamy at times yet courageous when courage is needed. News, perhaps the birth of a child. Someone close to you will perform a good deed for you. A promising start of something.
The page of cups represents an intense person prone to meditation. This person may be studious, loyal or reflective. They will render a service to you.
Want things to come together (be it in business, health and love or mind, body and soul) and are anxious for the future to take shape.
Don't bite off more than you can chew in your passion to go forward or you will find things hard to swallow. The time is not right and you are not ready or fully prepared.
The energy of this card is almost always gentle and youthful. The flavor of this card reeks of creativity and emotions. Depending on the other cards with it and its placement in the spread it could also mean: news of a birth; a wonderful idea or plan; a message of emotions; this could be a pregnancy card; someone playful like pixies, elves and sprites; a social invitation; an invite to a seafood restaurant; a trip to the beach; a young person who like to fish; someone who swims like a fish; a budding poet, an artist; an interior decorator; a professional psychic; an old fashioned love song; a romantic film i.e. "Gone With The Wind"; a florist; a delivery of flowers for someone; someone who communes with the dolphins; a romantic writer; Harlequin Romance novels; seashell collector; someone who carries a deep love of history; a gay person; love letters in the sand.
This card can also represent the querent or someone in the querent's life who is sweet, graceful, sensitive, charming and highly emotional and creative. Someone who is moved by beauty. Most of the time it represents a child, or child-like adult.
The Page of Cups can be used to identify an impressionable or emotional young person. When the Page of Cups represents a new event, the querent will react to this event in an emotional manner.
In a reading regarding spiritual issues, the Page could indicate the beginning of a spiritual journey undertaken for emotional reasons. The Page could also indicate a new beginning of an emotional nature, such as a new birth, the start of a new relationship, a creative idea, an exciting new project.

Reversed
It is a card of someone who is immature or has emotional troubles. It can depict a person who is escaping through drugs or alcohol, or someone who is running away from reality and living in his own world. This is a person who is emotionally insecure and unable to conduct healthy relationships. He expects too much and gives too little. He is lacking in self-love and self-acceptance, and may be emotionally abusive. This person has rampant and unfocused emotions, and may therefore imagines a lot and gets his feeling hurt without reason. He is suspicious, self-doubting, insincere, selfish and easily depressed.
Selfishness and love of luxury. Little desire to create.

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Knight of Cups

Description
The knight is riding along, gazing into the cup he is carrying. He's not looking where he is going, but has all his concentration on the cup. He's seeing guidance from the cup. There's a map in the cup. The knight is always riding, never still. He is always chasing his dreams.
The Knight wears a cloak covered with images of fish, the symbol of spirit, Christ consciousness, and creativity. His helmet and feet are winged, a symbol of an active and creative imagination. He rides a white horse which walks gracefully under his certain control. The horse represents power, energy, and drive, and of course the color white is a symbol of purity, spirituality, and light.

Meanings
The knight of the cups denotes the arrival of someone or something. An invitation or request may be received. An appeal or proposal may be made on behalf of someone else through a third party. Want something so bad, you think it will come to pass if you close your eyes to the possibility of defeat and hope for the best. You may also want to change your residence. You will be advancing towards your goals. Expect positive changes because things are Looking up.
Remember, cups are the suit of emotions. The knight is looking to his emotions to provide a map. He is the person who is ruled by his heart rather than his head. When faced with a decision, this person will always go with what his heart tells him, whether it is logical or not.
The Knight of Cups represents the undertaking of the creative adventure hinted at in the Page of Cups. Whereas the Page encounters the mystical fish out of the golden goblet and is thus initially inspired with creativity, the Knight has already encountered his inspiration and is about to undertake the journey of imagination and creativity to which the unconscious has impelled him.
Charm. You need to be charming and attractive to others, regardless of their sex, while still expressing the romantic, poetic view of life in your unique way. You maybe in love with love itself. You need to explore your sexuality carefully.
The Wise tell us to seek balance - the middle path of moderation. Well, the Knights don't agree! They want to do things all the way, not half-way. They push the energy of their suit as far as it will go, maybe farther. That's why each Knight has a positive and negative side.
On the positive side, the Knight of Cups is a sensitive soul. He is a poet - a lover of all things romantic and refined. He uses his imagination in wondrous ways and taps the deepest levels of emotion. He knows how to create beauty and share it with others.
On the negative side, this Knight is prone to flights of fancy and illusion. His melodramatic moods are legendary, and his emotions often get the better of him. He's temperamental and takes offense easily. He can't stand unpleasantness and will always let others deal with it.
In readings, a Knight of Cups shows that his sensitive style is (or could be) impacting the situation in some way - as an aspect of you, someone in your environment (man or woman) or the atmosphere in general. Ask yourself, "Is this Knight's energy helping or hurting?" If this Knight's style is evident, then balance is needed. Excess is only helpful in short bursts. Are your feelings appropriate or excessive? Are your daydreams unrealistic? Is someone's moodiness driving you crazy? Is your home life ruled by emotion rather than common sense? It may be time for a change. If this Knight's energy is missing, a dose of poetry maybe called for. Balance your life by moving toward him...at least a little. Are you too restrained? Express your feelings. Do you always make the most practical choice? Go for the extravagant one instead. Do you avoid introspection? Take sometime to look within and think about your life. Let the Knight of Cups introduce you to his world of romance and beauty.
A young man of high intelligence. A romantic dreamer. If querent is a woman, she may be falling in love with such a man. The coming or going of a matter involving emotions. A young man is friendly toward the querent. A bringer of advice and a message.
Physical description - light brown hair, fair complexion. May be a "traveler." Casual appearance. Well traveled.
Personality traits - temporary enthusiasms. Enthusiastic, passionate, amiable. Often poetic and graceful.

Reversed
This guy reversed allows his emotions too much control. He maybe moody, jealous, emotional to point of incapacity. He may jump to conclusions before getting all the facts. If this card shows up reversed, either look at yourself and at how you are acting, or realize that the person involved may be acting from his emotions rather than from any form of logic.
Beware of trickery and fraud. Sensuality, idleness. A treacherous deceitful young man. emotional harm to querent.

Queen of Cups

Description
The Queen of Cups is the Queen of the realm of emotions. She is a beautiful, introspective woman who sits on a throne in the midst of the sea. In her hands she cradles a beautiful cup with handles shaped like angels. The cup is closed, an indication that the thoughts of the Queen originate from the unconscious, from the depths of her own soul. The throne upon which she sits is decorated with images of sea-nymphs, fish, and scallop shells. The sea and fish are symbols of the unconscious mind and water in general represents emotion, spirit, and feeling.

Meanings
A woman who has more feeling and imagination than common sense. She is a good wife and loving mother. She is poetic and dreamy. A maternal female. A good mother and spouse. An emotionally secure situation.
The Queen of Cups is an adored woman. She is admired for her fairness and honesty. She is warm-hearted and a good friend. She indicates that a woman may assist you in your situation.
Want the work you do to mean something or to have value for others and/or to enlist the aid of another. People might not get your concepts or see things the way you do, but you will not be left out in the cold. Someone will come to your aid, or you will have the opportunity to utilize some of your skills or talents.
The Queen of Cups indicates a welling up of feelings that may have been hidden or unacknowledged for some time. On the other hand, this card may indicate an overflow of emotion and sentimentality that could be the source of trouble.
Empathy. You need to empathize with human frailty, yours included. Think with your heart, not your head. Learn how those in need cope with life's challenges and share your knowledge. Be aware of getting too close. Hug someone you care about.
The personality of the Queen of Cups combines the positive water energy of the Cups suit with the inward focus of a Queen. Here's what she is like: The Queen of Cups has a sweet, loving and sensitive nature. She has a kind word for everyone and never reacts with anger or impatience. There is a gentleness about her that soothes and calms. Compassion is her watchword. Her reactions to the world are guided by her feelings. In all matters, she lets her heart lead the way. She senses emotional currents and knows what others are experiencing without having to ask. She is never moody, but understands moods and their influence. She trusts her intuition and so is more open to knowledge that comes from within herself and beyond. She is often moved by the beauty and tragedy of life.
The Queen of Cups feels deeply and has a reverence for all aspects of God's creation. Her love includes and embraces everyone and everything.
With Queens, the emphasis is on your inner state. The Queen of Cups is not a real, many-sided person, but she does express an ideal of a certain type.
In readings, she asks you to think and feel as she does. For example: Are you aware of the emotional climate? Are you feeling loving? Do you trust your heart? Have you received an intuitive message? Have you been moved by another's pain? This Queen can also represent a man or woman who is like her, or an atmosphere of gentle love, acceptance and respect for feelings. In a reading, she tells you that her special energy has meaning for you at this time. Let yourself be inspired by this Queen in whatever form she appears in your life.
The suit of Cups represents love and emotions. You will probably deal with issues concerning these matters in the near future. The Queen of Cups is a nurturing personality. She genuinely cares about the well-being of other people. She could be a mother, or a mother figure. The Queen gives freely to others. She is creative, and highly intuitive. You may be called upon to help, or care for, another. You will be glad to help, but make sure you take care of yourself as well. You should pay close attention to your inner voice. Trust your intuition. You might feel a burst of creativity, or become involved in a creative project.
Physical description - light brown hair, fair complexion, beautiful woman, expressive eyes, sensuous lips.
Personality traits - warm, loving, sociable. Good-natured woman, devoted and honest. Sympathetic, sociable, artistically gifted. Very imaginative, honest, loyal.
Caring, sensitive to the feelings of others, compassion, kind to animals and children, intuitive, emotional, heart on the sleeve, understanding, responds to the unconscious, spiritual, patience, unconditional love and acceptance, telepathic, reverence for life, mature love relationships, sincerity, has well developed 6th sense, gentle, motherly, good listener, empathy, good in matters of the heart, has an inner guide, psychic ability, oneness with all people, mysterious, devoted, helps those in need, tender-hearted, experiences life as sacred, other worldly, ethereal beauty, loves fantasy, easily influenced, passionate, loyal, self acceptance, ability to listen to feelings, perceptive, imaginative, gift of prophesy.
Love of art and poetry and music, nurturing and protective energy, inner visions and dreams, the muse who inspires, enchantress, mythology, power of the unconscious, divine inspiration, mother love, collective unconscious, depths of the psyche, mysterious feminine, seductive, pay attention to the anima, fragile and easily hurt, unfathomable, still waters run deep, open in showing feelings, sympathetic ear and a shoulder to cry on, keeps emotions under control, dislikes thoughtless and inappropriate behavior, strong moral sense, tranquil, compelling.

Reversed
Imagination runs away with you. You mean well but you cannot be relied on. Pleasure and happiness turn bitter. Untrustworthy woman is near.
Out of touch with feelings, overwhelmed by emotion, anxious, unstable, brooding, suspicious, erratic behavior, fickle, moody, lay, unfaithful, self indulgent, overly secretive, cold and calculating, irrational, gossip, hurts others, perverse, bitter, unable to relate to children, unable to give nurturing.

King of Cups

Description
The King of Cups sits calmly in the midst of a turbulent sea and wears a necklace with a fish amulet. The fish is the symbol of spirit and creativity and represents, in this card, the balance of the unconscious with the conscious. The King of Cups does not repress his emotions and unconscious impulses but has learned to accept and deal with them in a mature and balanced manner.
Behind him on his right, a fish jumps wildly from the tumultuous ocean, and on his left a ship remains steadily anchored. These images are a sign that the unconscious has been allowed to break through and has been recognized by the King, yet it remains within his power and does not overwhelm him.
He sits on his thrown on a gray stone block floating in the sea. It appears that a sea snake or fish has jumped out of the sea to his left and to his right in the background is a red pirate ship. His thrown has a rolled gray high-back with a royal look to it. The King seems as though he would like to test the waters with his right foot but he is wearing greenish-yellowish leather slippers and he is not sure that he wants to soil them wet. He wears a deep blue garment with a bright yellow cloak with a red trim and a red scarf over his right shoulder. On his right hand appears to be a ring, He holds a yellow goblet cup. In his left hand, he holds a scepter in yellow which is held upright. Displayed on his breast and around his neck is a fish pendant proudly displayed. His crown is high with red and yellow.

Meanings
A man of business, law or divinity, kind and considerate, and willing to take responsibility. He is interested in the arts and sciences and enjoys quiet power. Someone displays paternal feelings toward you.
Consideration. You need to be considerate as you counsel others. You may need to understand why strong feelings have surfaced and how to best cope with them. Do not repress emotions. You must see your life as a work of art.
The personality of the King of Cups is a combination of the positive water energy of the Cups suit and the active, outward focus of a King. Here's what he is like: The King of Cups is wise and understanding with a deep knowledge of the world that comes from the heart. He is a teacher and way-shower who guides his students with loving attention. He cares about others sincerely and always responds to their needs with compassion. He heals with a gentle touch and a quiet word. He is calm and relaxed in all situations, seeming to know intuitively what is called for at any moment. Others turn to him for advice because they know he will listen attentively. There is always a peacefulness around him which others respond to. He is tolerant of all points of view and shows patience in the most trying circumstances. He gives others freedom to grow and develop in their own ways without asking anything in return.
With Kings, the emphasis is on behavior. The King of Cups is not a real, many-sided person, but he is an ideal of a certain type.
In readings, he asks you to take the kinds of actions he might take. For example: responding calmly in a crisis, using diplomacy rather than force, reaching out to help, or accepting a different point of view.
This King can also represent a man or woman who acts as he does, or an atmosphere of caring, tolerance and understanding. In a reading, he tells you that his special energy has meaning for you at this time. Let yourself be inspired by this King in whatever form he appears in your life.
Physical description - light brown hair, fair complexion. Clear liquid eyes. Older man, business man in responsible position. A kindly gentleman. A fatherly figure.
Personality traits - you may not understand him, but you can trust him. He has achieved something in life. Sociable, loving, sensuous. Intelligence combined with strong intuition. Enjoys comforts of life. Love of arts. Responsible and generous.
The King of Cups, like all the court cards in the suit of Cups, represents emotion, creativity, and the unconscious. Unlike the preceding Three court cards, however, the King of Cups expresses much more restraint in his emotional state. He is a master of his own feelings, and remains in control of his emotions. Not to say that he represses those feelings and sentiments; on the contrary, the King of Cups represents the balance between the emotions and the intellect. He is a master of compassion and kindness and his card often indicates strong bonds in a relationship based on temperance and understanding.
When this card is encountered in a reading, it is an indication that you must create balance in the realm of the emotions. The King of Cups represents compassion, one of the most powerful and beautiful sentiments of the human spirit. How can we develop a stronger awareness of the unconscious without being overwhelmed by its power? How can we develop a stronger sense of compassion without falling into the trap of sentimentality?
This seems to be a time where you are displaying (or want to display) a deeper knowledge of the world that comes from the heart. You have always cared about others sincerely and always responded to their needs with compassion, trying to heal with a gentle touch and a quiet word. So, let this inner strength and wisdom prevail today!!! Be calm and relaxed in all situations. You already know intuitively what is called for at any moment. You really do!
Today, try and listen to others just that little bit more again. Respond calmly in a crisis, use diplomacy rather than force, reach out to help, not to stifle or "have it only your way!". Today is going to be a very demanding day...I know. Yet tonight... a weary, yet immensely satisfied "you" is going to sleep the sleep of righteousness!
The King of cups shows you generosity, graciousness, love, calmness, caring and will give you his healing ways. He has power in the business world and loves law and order. You would love him to be your doctor. If there were a crisis at hand, we should all hope to have this person near.
The King of Cups contains many things depending on the other cards in the reading. In most instances, it contains emotions, passions or knowledge. The positive meaning of the cup is the obtainment of these factors.
Want someone to spend time with, make love to, or share your life with; and/or to be self-sustaining or solvent in the work you've chosen to do. What you want or need will come to you, and you will be provided for.
Generosity, understanding, dignity, calmness, aura of power, deep reflective spirit, religious feelings, goes to the point, knowledgeable, eloquent, feelings under control, alchemist, moral courage, willing to do what is needed, passionate, committed to social change, fertility and transformation, regal, enthusiastic, expansive, emotional security, inspirational, literate, empathetic, nurturing, fatherly, wisdom, psychic healer, offers assistance, reliable, wisdom, wounded healer, gracious, loving, loves law and order, good in a crisis, openness, acceptance, health and wholeness, warm hearted, helpful, takes initiative, ability to live one's ideals.
Caring, mediator, professional, secretive, negotiator, empathetic, cultured, keeps feelings to himself, good in an emerging dynamic, able to bring ideas to fruition, counselor, confidant, considerate, resolved, mature, imaginative, protector, sympathetic, ambivalent nature, paradoxical, personal relationships, concern for others, self denying, kind, good listener, provider, moody, sophisticated, quiet and deep, sensitive, artistic, compassionate, communicates feelings, romantic, poet, guardian of hidden mysteries, harmonious relationships, community respect, religious, adaptable, creative thinker, sensual, spiritual, practitioner of alternative medicine, tranquility, intimacy, interpreter of dreams and visions, thoughtful, devotion and service, gentle touch.

Reversed
A powerful man but likely to be double dealing. A crafty violent nature. A scandal is in the air, be careful.
Unfeeling, sleazy, uncultured, barbaric, insecure, immature, unimaginative, double dealer, forked tongue, false friend, worthless advice, con artist, deceptive, dishonest, play acting, insecure, manipulative, toys with emotions, lazy, exploitive, addictive personality, violent, treacherous ruler, untrustworthy.

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LEARN THE TAROT LINKS

Learn The Tarot

Learn The Tarot-The Major Arcana

Learn The Tarot-Suit of Pentacles

Learn The Tarot-Suit of Swords

Learn The Tarot-Suit of Wands

Natural Hair Products

2009-08-21T09:50:00.028-05:00

Hair care products, especially good ones, can not only be expensive, but they can also contain chemicals that are harmful to your body and the environment. No chemicals have to be used to make these products below, so these homemade hair care products will be kind to your hair, skin, and environment.

It is possible to develop hair care recipes to meet your needs. No special ingredients are required to make your own organic hair products. Natural hair care products are easy to make and the ingredients easy to find. All of the ingredients included below can be purchased at your local grocery store.

The most important thing to remember is that the better quality the ingredients, the better the end result will be. Use the freshest ingredients whenever possible. Certified organic ingredients offer you the reassurance that the ingredients you are using have been grown without the use of harmful chemicals or chemically derived substances.

Remember good hair care is influenced by what goes in the body as well as what goes on the hair, so a good diet will help promote healthy hair.

Some of the most common ingredients used in homemade hair conditioner products are:

Mayonnaise
Honey
Chamomile
Yogurt
Avocado
Fruit
Warm Beer
Oils
Eggs
Coconut Milk
Coconut Oil
Dried rosemary Leaves
Apple Cider Vinegar
Olive Oil

(Note: Boil all herbs in a little water, cool, and strain. Use the water as your ingredient.)

Oils for hot oil treatments:

Soybean oil
Sandalwood oil
Lavender oil
Geranium oil
Coconut oil
Jojoba oil
Vitamin E oil
Rosemary oil
Coconut Oil
Sunflower Oil
Almond Oil

(Note: Hair must be shampooed after any oily ingredients, such as hot oils, mayonnaise, honey, yogurt, or fruits are applied to remove oils from hair.)

Any of these ingredients can be combined to make quality hair conditioners and hot oil treatments. Keep a note of what works well and what doesn’t. Experiment with ingredients to find the best results for you.

Homemade Deep conditioning Hair Conditioner
Ingredients:
Mayonnaise and/or plain yogurt mixed with one egg

Directions:
Apply one-half cup of mayonnaise or mixture to your dry unwashed hair.
Cover with a plastic bag and wait for fifteen minutes.
Rinse a few times then shampoo thoroughly.

Dry Shampoo for Oily Hair
Ingredients:
one tablespoon of salt and one-half cup of cornmeal or
Cornstarch or
Baby powder

Directions :
Dip large soft makeup brush in cornstarch and dust through oily spots in hair.
(A salt shaker with large holes can also be used.)
Allow to sit for five minutes.
Brush out with a brush or comb.
Repeat as necessary.

Homemade Hairspray Remover
If you want to get rid of sticky hairspray build up wash your hair as usual but work a tablespoon of baking soda into your lathered hair before rinsing.

Natural Hairspray
2 cups of water
1/2 lemon
1/2 orange
(A lime may be substituted)

Directions:
Cut the fruit into pieces.
Combine the water with the fruit.
Boil until the mixture is reduced by half.
Cool and strain the mixture.
Pour into a spray bottle.
Put in the refrigerator (or add one ounce of rubbing alcohol to keep at room temperature for up to two weeks) .
If the mix is too sticky you can add more water.
Spray can be used to spritz onto wet hair to add body to dry hair.

Natural Hair Gel
Ingredients:
One-half to one teaspoon of unflavored gelatin

Directions:
Dissolve the gelatin in a cup of warm water.
Put into a sealed container and refrigerate it.
Spray onto wet hair.

Dandruff Remedies
Ingredients:
Four or five dried thyme leaves
2 cups water

Directions:
Boil leaves and water for 10 minutes.
Cool mixture.
Massage into scalp.
Leave for thirty minutes.
Wash hair normally.
______________________________________________________
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
100 grams of witchhazel
200ml of water

Directions:
Massage small amount into hair after washing.
____________________________________________________________
Ingredients:
Warm apple cider vinegar

Directions:
Wash your hair with vinegar.
Leave it for 30 minutes.
Rinse off with plain water.
Do this regularly to stop dandruff.
____________________________________________________________
Ingredients:
Olive Oil
Almond Oil

Directions:
Mix oils together.
Massage into your scalp.
Leave for 5 minutes.
Rinse.
Shampoo as usual if still oily.
____________________________________________________________
Ingredients:
Two teaspoons vinegar (any type)
Six teaspoons water

Directions:
Apply to scalp before bed
Wrap head in towel.
Rinse with vinegar in the morning.
Repeat several times a week.
____________________________________________________________
Ingredients:
One teaspoon lemon juice
Two teaspoons vinegar

Directions:
Massage into hair while wet.

Puzzle Set #2

2009-08-17T04:29:00.028-05:00

PUZZLE SET #2

This puzzle tests you in five facts and figures. Solve the quiz in the order given because each answer is used in the next statement. There are no fractions used.

1. Take the number of the date that Christmas falls on in December and divide it by the number that correctly fills in the blank of the Dolly Parton song title "Nine to ___."

2. Next, add the number of minutes in a quarter of an hour.

3. Now subtract the value of the Roman numeral XVIII.

4. Add the number of people who can ride a single unicycle at a time.

5. Subtract the score of a team that was shut out.

Answer: the number of fictional Musketeers.

If you gave me $1.00, I would have as much money as you. If I gave you $1.00, you would have twice as much as me. How much money do we each have?

Alice, Betty Carol, and Dot will grow to become a politician, a doctor, a sales manager, and a teacher, though not necessarily in that order. One day while discussing their future careers, the four girls each made a prediction. As it happened, only the one prediction made by the future teacher would turn out to be correct. From the predictions below, can you determine what career each girl will have?

Alice said, "Betty will be a teacher."

Betty said, " Dot will not be a doctor."

Carol said, " Betty will go into politics."

Dot replied, "No, Alice will be a politician."

In the charade below, each line contains a clue to a letter of the alphabet. These letters, in the given order, will spell out the name of an animal.

My FIRST is in BEAR and in CLEAN.

My SECOND is in CRANE but not in GREEN.

My THIRD is i PORPOISE and in PRIZE.

My FOURTH is in CONDOR but not in COLONIZE.

My FIFTH is in WOLVERINE and in REVEAL.

My SIXTH is in WEASEL but not in WHEEL.

My SEVENTH is in TIGER and in RIGHT.

My EIGHTH is in MUSKRAT but not in SUNLIGHT.

To solve, simply cross out one letter in each pair below. When the puzzle is completed correctly, the remaining letters will spell out a quote.

SW HT TE NT YX DO AU YW OI NU,

AN OR TE NH IQ MN GE HP SU RA TE CS.

Cross off the capitalized words below according to the instructions given. The remaining words, in order, will form a truism.

QUESTION MOTE WHAT MINUTE YOU IRRITATES SEE

LINKS IN MIRRORS RESPONSE AND UNCOMPLIMENTARY

FACTORY NEWSPAPERS

Eliminate the word...
1. that contains all five vowels (a, e, i, o, and u) in reverse order.
2. that spells out a dance if two letters are switched.
3. that has three consecutive letters of the alphabet grouped together, in any order.
4. that sounds like a wildcat.
5. that can be anagrammed into a body of water when the three parts of duplicated letters are removed.
6. with two vowels that forms an everyday word no matter which vowel (a, e, i, o, or u) is used as its first one.
7. with more than one vowel that forms another word when both end letters are removed.

Two related words, with their letters in the correct order, are combined in each row of letter. Can you find both words? In a line like POBOOXLER, or POboOxDeLEr, you can see the two words POODLE and BOXER.
1. P A H L O B U T O M
2. C R O H A C K E I R R
3. C U R B L A T A N I K E N T
4. B R C O A C C O B B A L I G E
5. M I S N A B L K E

Read the four statements A-D below, and assume that these statements are all true. Next, read statements 1-4 and, using the information received from statements A_D, try to determine if the final four statements are true or false.

At McGregor High School:

A. All teachers who had taught for five years or more had changed schools at least once.
B. The only teachers who went about on bicycles were those who taught math.
C. Only teachers who had taught for less than five years belonged to amateur acting companies.
D. All math teachers had been teaching for more than five years.

1. Clare has taught math in three different schools.
2. Bill, a very good teacher, has changed schools twice and cycles regularly to the amateur acting company to which he belongs.
3. Sam has changed schools three times, but continues to belong to the same amateur acting company.
4. Meg, who is a math teacher, and Dora, her young colleague who started just a year ago, have taught in the same schools and belong to the same acting company.

A whole bunch of colored sticks were scattered below. Can you pick up one stick at a time without disturbing any of the others and figure out which stick is at the very bottom of the pile?

Andrew, Bill, Charlie, Dan, and Ernie were seated around a circular table. Ernie's brother, who was sitting to the right of Charlie, noticed that no two people whose names start with consecutive letters of the alphabet were sitting next to each other. Where was each man sitting in relation to Charlie?

LINK TO PUZZLE SET #2 ANSWERS
http://livelovelaughlearnblog.blogspot.com/2009/08/answers-to-puzzle-set-2.html

Answers to Puzzle Set #1

2009-08-17T04:29:00.015-05:00

Puzzle #1

Puzzle #2

water

court

paragraph

Caribbean

slot

Puzzle #3

3 2 3 4 1 5 6 6 8 9 3 1 2 7 4 4 8 9 1 2 2 5 7 9 (3 groups)

2 3 4 1
9 3 1 2
7 4 4

1 2 3 4 6 7 7 8 9 5 4 9 6 7 3 1 4 6 2 8 2 1 5 7 (5 groups)

2 3 4 6
7 8
9 6
7 3 1 4
2 1 5 7

5 9 2 2 3 7 1 2 8 6 3 3 6 4 2 4 8 6 2 1 3 4 4 2 (3 groups)

2 2 3 7
2 3 7 1 2
3 6 4 2

Puzzle #4

AMATEUR TORTOISE HARVEST ALBANY YELLOW TERRAPIN MERCURY

PAIN REAP OFFENSIVE OPERA TRENTON ODOR LANGUAGE TURTLE

DISTINCT KETTLE NEPTUNE DISCOMFORT BORROW REPULSIVE

HARTFORD GATHER OFTEN SORENESS EVIDENT ORCHARD SMELL

DISGUSTING URANUS CLEAR KOALA SCENT

Riddle answer: A YOLK BOOK

Puzzle #5

topaz
abyss
stump
covet
booth
hotel

PUZZLE SET #1
http://livelovelaughlearnblog.blogspot.com/2009/08/puzzle-set-1.html

Learn the Tarot

2009-08-17T02:14:00.011-05:00

The Tarot is made up of 78 cards, including 22 Major Arcana cards and 56 Minor Arcana cards across four suits (Cups, Pentacles, Swords and Wands). Discover the meanings and interpretations of each of the 78 Tarot cards...

Major Arcana
The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards and reflect key archetypes or spiritual lessons in our life.

•The Fool
•Magician
•High Priestess
•Empress
•Emperor
•Hierophant
•Lovers
•Chariot
•Strength
•Hermit
•Wheel Of Fortune
•Justice
•Hanged Man
•Death
•Temperance
•Devil
•Tower
•Star
•Moon
•Sun
•Judgement
•World

Find out if he’s the one for you. Go to PsychicSource.com for a free compatibility profile.

Minor Arcana
The Minor Arcana consists for four suits, each with 14 cards. The Minor Arcana reflect the day-to-day activities in our lives.

•The Suit of Cups
•The Suit of Pentacles
•The Suit of Swords
•The Suit of Wands

LEARN THE TAROT LINKS

Learn The Tarot (The Major Arcana)

Learn The Tarot-Suit of Cups

Learn The Tarot-Suit of Pentacles

Learn The Tarot-Suit of Swords

Learn The Tarot-Suit of Wands

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