Welcome to Tarot Mania. You are about to embark on an exciting journey into the world of Tarot.

Learning to read the Tarot will help you to:

• fine tune your intuitive abilities
• discover your own psychic ability
• become more confident when dealing with others
• feel empowered when reading for others
• understand the importance of tarot in your daily life

HISTORY OF TAROT

The history of tarot has been widely documented over the years, but no one really knows how or where it originated. Reports have been documented that it originated in Italy around 1392. Bringing the Tarot images to life was an unknown Parisian painter who was commissioned by a wealthy Italian aristocratic family who wanted them painted for decoration around their mansion. The wife of the family had overheard talk in the local village about a game that the peasants played called “Le Tarote”. Intrigued, she set out to find out more about “Le Tarote” and subsequently she discovered the hidden meaning behind the cards and was determined to transfer those meanings into images.

Many historical writings about ancient cultures contain hidden references to the tarot, some even dating as early as 2000BC. The term Gypsy, is derived from the word Egypt, where egyptian nomads travelled to Europe and popularised the term “fortune telling”, using tarot cards and crystal balls to see into the future.

Modern society is now accepting and beginning to understand the role of tarot and how it can be used as a tool for self development, self empowerment and the opportunity to discover more about yourself. Sit back, grab your cards, and get ready to learn the secrets of the ancients hidden in the tarot.

    

TAROT TIP FOR THE WEEK Try this visualization in preparation for the Emperor card. Imagine you have been selected to become part of a very small audience to be presented to the Dahli Llama. This man is a very powerful and spiritual force whose teachings are known worldwide, and he has asked to see you. Think carefully about this and what comes to your thoughts as you imagine yourself standing before this holy figure. What feelings does this powerful figure stir in you? What would you ask him? How does he make you feel? The Tarot is made up of 78 cards and divided into two sections - the Major arcana (22 cards), and the Minor arcana (56 cards). This week we look at the next card in the Tarot Journey – the Emperor.

4 The Emperor – Leadership, Authority, Structure, Confidence

The powerful driving force of the Emperor comes to you when you need to lay some foundations in your life. As you delve deeper into the heart of this card, you will begin to understand how he can help you to put plans into action. When you draw this card you are asking and receiving help from others around you. The essence of the Emperor brings you personal power, strength and the will to make things happen, despite any small obstacles that appear on your path.    
    
The Emperor offers you the knowledge that the universe is supporting you as you try to manifest your dreams. Just as the Emperor must rule over his kingdom, you too are being told that you have the chance to take charge of your life and manifest your soul’s desires. The influence of this card can also represent a powerful force in the guise of a mentor, an ally, or someone who can help make your dreams a reality.    
    
The role of the Emperor is not about forcing something to happen. Instead, you are introduced to create foundations and structure through careful planning. There are many secrets that the Emperor will bestow upon you, only because you are ready to take the reins. You are ready to discover the energy of the Emperor as discipline and focus becomes second nature to you.     
    
Maybe you are ready to take charge of a personal, financial, or career situation that has been bringing you unease for a long time. Do you find it hard to say “no” to people even though you feel you are being taking advantage of. The energy of the Emperor helps you to wash away the fear and begin to take responsibilities for your own decisions. Learn to say “no” without feeling guilty, and to say “yes” when you really want to.    
    
The Emperor helps you to set guidelines and boundaries, yet there still remains the essence of flexibility and fairness. Think of the last time you took charge of a situation, and remember how liberating and freeing you felt. Allow the confidence of the Emperor to flow into your body, your heart and mind and you are now in charge. Decisions you make to move forward are done with ease and a deep feeling of confidence, your foundations are beginning to take form.    
   

TAROT VIBE One the best ways to understand the power of the Emperor is by learning from others. Ask yourself who you most admire and feel inspired by and write down the qualities you feel they possess. Are some of these qualities lacking in your life? Do you feel you have these similar qualities inside you, but don’t know how to release them. Is it the head of a big corporation, an athlete, a celebrity, a politician or it could be the person who lives right next door. Research the character, find your information on the net, through books, libraries, or if it is someone you can speak directly with, ask them what are their keys to success.

    

Inpsyche Recommended Reading and Tarot Decks

Books:	The Power of Now – A GUIDE TO SPIRITUAL ENLIGHTENMENT      Eckhart Tolle
	Crossing Over – THE STORIES BEHIND THE STORIES      John Edward
	The Four Agreements – A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO PERSONAL FREEDOM      Don Miguel Ruiz

    

Tarot Decks:	The Mythic Tarot
	The Rider Waite Tarot
	Osho Zen Tarot