Tarot Therapy: Exploring the Depths of the Psyche
In a world where mental health and spirituality are becoming more and more mainstream, alternative practices are emerging as valuable tools for self-discovery and healing. One such practice, historically steeped in mysticism and magic, is the ancient art of tarot reading. Beyond its reputation as a divination tool, tarot can be a profound psychological aid in supporting mental health and awareness.
According to psychoanalysts like Carl Jung and Sigmund Freud, the tarot serves as a mirror to the subconscious, unveiling aspects of our inner selves that may lie dormant or unexplored. Through the symbolism of the cards, we are prompted to reflect on themes and circumstances in our lives that can otherwise go unnoticed in our day to day. This reflection fosters a nuanced exploration of emotions, fears, and desires - offering a visual and symbolic language to interpret our inner landscape.
“...[Tarot offers] a visual and symbolic language to interpret our inner landscape”
Continue reading to learn more benefits for tarot for mental health and wellbeing!
Tarot for Mindfulness
The act of shuffling and selecting cards in a tarot reading requires direct focus and presence. This ritualistic aspect fosters mindfulness, drawing individuals into the present moment. As attention shifts to the cards, the mind often follows suit, creating a temporary respite from the whirlwind of daily concerns. This mindfulness practice can contribute to stress reduction and increased awareness, elements essential for maintaining good mental health.
Tarot as a Framework for Narrative Therapy:
Each tarot spread tells a story, weaving together the threads of the past, present, and future. This narrative framework can be empowering for those grappling with mental health challenges. It allows individuals to view their experiences from a broader perspective, acknowledging that life unfolds in chapters and cycles. This holistic outlook can offer comfort, promoting a sense of continuity and the realization that challenges are often transient.
Tarot for Empowered Decision-Making:
Tarot readings are not about predicting a predetermined future; instead, they empower individuals to make informed decisions. By illuminating potential outcomes and highlighting areas of focus, tarot provides valuable insights that individuals can incorporate into their decision-making processes. This sense of empowerment can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with anxiety or uncertainty, fostering a proactive mindset.
Tarot for Facilitating Emotional Expression:
Articulating complex feelings can be challenging, yet it is a crucial aspect of maintaining emotional wellbeing. Tarot cards, with their rich symbolism, can act as a visual vocabulary for emotions. Exploring the imagery on the cards can help individuals express and understand their feelings in a symbolic language.
Intrigued? Book a 30 or 60 minute Tarot Therapy reading today!
Lauren Victoria, NCC, LPC is a licensed mental health professional and certified sound & vibration healer who specializes in spiritual counseling, astrology readings, and psychological tarot. Learn more about her on Instagram at @mutedearthvirgo