The Tarot Activity Book - Andy Matzner

TARoT ACTIVITY
THE
BOOK, a
ideas
collection of creative AND therapeutic card
BE LOVERS.
ANSM
—1AT2NE2
The Tarot Activity Book
A collection of creative ideas
and therapeutics for the letters
By Andy Matzner
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Cover image © wstockphoto
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in

any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying,
recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without the
written permission of the author, except for the inclusion of brief quotes in a
review.
Copyright © 2013, Andy Matzner

Original Title: The Tarot Activity Book. A Collection of Creative and
Therapeutic Ideas for the Cards (2013)
Spanish translation
by Carlos Reyes / Gloria Pérez Triguero
© 2017
Resignation

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This book is made available with the understanding that the author is not
engaged in offering specific medical, psychological, or emotional advice.
There is also nothing in this book designed to be a diagnosis, prescription, or
cure for any type of specific medical, psychological, or emotional problem.
The information, ideas and suggestions in this book are not intended to be a
substitute for professional advice.

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This book is dedicated to Pamela Colman Smith
Without whom, this work would not exist.

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A book must be the ax that breaks the frozen sea within us.
Franz Kafka

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At the center of your being you have the answer: you know who you are and
you know what you want.
Lao Tzu

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INDEX
Introduction
Letters as conversation precursors
Personal relationships
The three basic times
Pain management
Self-development
The Hero's Path
Cards for every mood
The lesson
The art of giving
Follow the leader
Lose and find
free association
The boom
Your family legacy
The deal
Yin Yang
Movie star
Hope
Pride
Imagine this!
Similes (part I)
Similes (part II)
The challenge
Letters as inspiration for writing
personal power
The survivor
Your birthday guests
Negative positive
Letters to ask you questions
Inner child dialogues
Letter to your parents
Parent dialogues
Stand up to your inner critic
The letter of your soul
Transient trauma
Find your defender
Strength weakness

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Embrace the shadow
Release
Finding Compassion
Your ideal “I”
The guide
See the solution
Healing symbol
Haiku Tarot
The shield
word combination
poetry time
Before and after
The gift (part I)
The gift (part II)
The gift (part III)
The Three Gifts
The confidant
The goal!
message from above
Create poetry by mixing and matching
Royal advice
The shortest story
Personal correspondence
Boundaries or personal limits
Mail in the mailbox
Life lessons
Life is…
The bridge
Arts and crafts
Totem
Tarot totem
The portal
The wall
Walking hand in hand with the shadow
Force
Trip
The Higher Power
Still life study
Display panel
Interpretive study
The detail
Mosaic

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Display: a glass jar
The glass jar as a frame
In front of the public and in the backstage area
Forward!
gratitude journal
The sketch of your autobiography
Tarot cards collage
The meaning of life
Tarot Mandala
personal limits
Scribble
Define the abstract
Tarot Zen Garden
Coat of arms
Positive reinforcement
A good life
Geometric forms
my compulsion
Destruction/Regeneration
Appendix:
Something for the road...
Trust and receive
Thanks
About the Author
The symbol works like an automatic button that releases energy and channels
it.
Joseph Campbell
I have come to feel that the only learning that can significantly influence
behavior is that which the individual discovers and incorporates for himself.
Carl Rogers
How to teach again, however, what has been taught correctly and learned
incorrectly a thousand and a thousand times through several millennia of
prudent foolishness in the human species? That is the last and difficult task of
the hero. How to give in the language of the world of light, the messages that
come from the depths and that defy the word?

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Joseph Campbell
Until you make your unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you
will call it destiny.
Carl Jung

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Introduction
Welcome! In this book you will learn how Tarot cards can have rich and
varied use and meaning outside of the world of divination. In fact, my goal is
to challenge you to see Tarot in a way that you may not be used to. All the
exercises and activities collected in this book use Tarot cards as means to
stimulate creativity and imagination.
Filled with provocative imagery and archetypal symbolism, each of the
seventy-eight cards of the Tarot deck serves as a powerful tool to encourage
self-expression, the development of non-verbal means of communication, and
self-awareness. So, instead of memorizing traditional meanings, you will
interact with the cards in ways that will offer you a channel to express
yourself and give you the opportunity to work with a wide variety of artistic
and creative mediums. You will also have the opportunity to access your
playful side because while you use the cards to do the exercises included in
the book, you will be using your imagination one hundred percent.
But the exercises and activities in this book will also provide you with the
opportunity to delve deeper into your psyche. Letters not only encourage self-
expression and act as a vehicle for communication, but they also provide the
structure for organizing thoughts and feelings. Working with the cards leads
to self-reflection, from which understanding flows. This, in turn, creates the
opportunity for learning, which ultimately brings about personal growth. Such
a process allows us to make sense of the world and move forward in our lives
in a positive way. Consequently, each of the activities in this book has the
potential to be "therapeutic" and "healing."
Therapeuo comes from Ancient Greek and is a verb meaning "to wait on,
assist, serve or heal", while "healing" originally comes from the Proto-Indo-
European root Kailo , meaning "whole" or "unharmed". Such is the gift of the
Tarot, that each card has the potential to lead a person towards new paths of
self-exploration, to evoke a powerful dialogue with oneself and to bring
underlying beliefs to the surface. By mining material buried in the
subconscious, the use of Tarot imagery delves into the nature of
communication, both with ourselves and with others. This is the self-
knowledge that leads to relief from distress and positive transformation. That
is, the cards serve a person by acting as a catalyst that allows them to move

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from pain, confusion and fragmentation, to a state of clarity, acceptance and
wholeness.
And you will wonder how it occurred to me to combine Tarot, artistic

expression and psychological work. Well, this is because I am a social worker
and psychotherapist, therefore, my professional activity is carried out in the
field of mental health, but I am also a Tarot card reader and recipient of
readings. To this we must add that I am also dedicated to organizing
workshops and talks. I began to become familiar with Tarot as I began my
career as a professional in the mental health field, in 2004. At this time, I was
working as a manager in a large company that cared for people with serious
mental illnesses. To satisfy a personal curiosity that I had had for a long time,
I began reading about Tarot cards in my free time. I quickly became hooked,
discovering how, for hundreds of years, Tarot readers have been using cards
as a tool for divination, in order to predict the future. And so I began my
journey performing Tarot readings for co-workers, family and friends.
But I realized that Tarot could also be used in other ways. I realized this fact
as I gained more experience in the mental health field. Because while working
with individuals and groups, I often wondered if there was anything else I
could do (other than "talk therapy") to help a person find relief. And what I
discovered was what expressive art therapists have known for years: people
love to be creative. After all, we are naturally artistic beings, although this
impulse is often pushed aside (or even banished) as we get older.
I quickly found that when I gave my patients the opportunity to engage in
expressive arts such as journaling (writing),

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painting, drawing, collage and music,... responded with deep enthusiasm, as
long as the activities were carried out in an environment of security and trust,
guided by positive intention.
Of course, there is more to the artistic process than simply being creative;
There is also a therapeutic aspect. A person can, by following their intuition
and using their imagination, access thoughts and emotions and finally express
them. This is due to the fact that practicing any type of art or craft allows for
communication with ourselves – and between ourselves and others – in a way
that words are not enough. And precisely, it is this exploration and
development of a self-created visual language that provides important insights
into our lives.
The more I became involved in the expressive arts, I asked myself, would it
be possible to fit Tarot into all of this? After all, it is a perfect match, as each
of the 78 cards is a mini artistic masterpiece containing rich symbolic images.
In fact, what makes Tarot so powerful is that each card illustrates a specific
aspect of the human condition. Within each card, you can find powerful
archetypal images that represent the universal challenges and themes that we
all experience in our lives. Taken as a whole, the Tarot catalogs the spectrum
of possibilities available to us as we journey through life. I was wondering if I
could somehow incorporate Tarot into arts, crafts, and writing projects.
Would cards add an extra dimension to creative and therapeutic work?
So I started using Tarot with patients and groups that were open to it. One of
the first things I discovered was that Tarot cards make messages within a
conversation more effective. This is especially true for young people, who are
sometimes wary of verbally expressing how they feel. We all know that it can
be difficult to express certain feelings or experiences using words. Therefore,
the use of Tarot can augment or even replace verbal descriptions.
I also found that basing art and craft projects on Tarot cards was not only fun
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It provided opportunities for self-exploration and personal growth as people
broadened and deepened their creative possibilities.
Additionally, I learned that using Tarot cards as writing prompts (for
activities like journaling, poetry, and storytelling) elicited responses from the
heart in ways that verbal expression was not capable of. In this sense, the
cards act as a kind of Rorschach ink test as they are a projective tool. This is
because the powerful images on each card trigger unique personal reactions.
Each person responded to the symbolism of the cards differently based on
their own life story. Interacting with the cards was the opportunity to develop
self-awareness, as the images in the cards allowed my patients to directly
access the depths of their psyche. The images on each of the cards are not
neutral. Every time we are faced with a card we are affected, whether on a
conscious or unconscious level, and we engage with it from our unique point
of view, created by the context of our experiences and perspectives. By
interacting with the cards, we have no choice but to connect with them.
In short, I discovered that each of us has our own personal response to the
cards that, on the other hand, can reveal hidden emotional problems or
internal conflicts. Working with Tarot allows us to delve deeper into our
subconscious and connect with those buried memories, thoughts and feelings
that we have not previously been able to access. By identifying with a certain
image and relating it to our lives, we may find that new intuitions
immediately arise, which we can later apply to our daily lives in a conscious
way.
And that is why I have written this book: to spread knowledge about the
creative and therapeutic potential of Tarot when added to expressive arts, such
as painting, drawing, sculpture, collage, writing and poetry. We can use this
combination of Tarot with forms of artistic and personal expression to release
blocked energy, identify and get in touch with difficult or repressed feelings,
and connect with our intuition. The clarity that follows will often lead to new
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think about ourselves and the world around us. It can also open paths to a more
hopeful future.

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How is this book organized?
The activities and exercises in this book are divided into three main sections.
The first of them is Letters as precursors to conversation. In this section you
will learn how to use Tarot cards as a stimulus to begin a dialogue, either with
yourself or with others. The cards are, by nature, evocative; each one is part of
a visual language that can be understood literally or as a metaphor. Therefore,
letters can serve as vehicles through which a person can communicate, since
images form a symbolic language that transcends words. Using cards in this
way can be beneficial in generating and facilitating conversations, as well as
helping to break the ice in a fun way in work groups.
The second part of this book is made up of activities based on writing (poetry,
stories or reflections in your personal journal). It is the section called Letters
as inspiration for writing.
Here, Tarot cards are used as catalysts to explore and access our inner world.
As I mentioned before, cards can easily awaken and stimulate our creative
abilities. I have found that combining Tarot imagery with writing allows us to
bypass the typical barriers and blockages that inhibit our ability to write
honestly and consciously.
The third section, Arts and Crafts , contains projects that physically use Tarot
cards. Many can be for fun. After all, having the opportunity to be creative
brings out our playful side. But if done consciously and with intention, these
activities can also be therapeutically powerful, encouraging self-discovery,
fostering personal growth, and promoting healing.
Artistic representations can be seen as symbols that emerge from the person's
inner world. Therefore, the practice of arts and crafts allows for
communication with deep truths in a way that is not possible through verbal
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experiencing and expressing emotions is more direct and less distorted than
when words are used for the same purpose. In this way, by giving shape to
our thoughts and feelings in two and three dimensions, the invisible becomes
visible, and this is how the subconscious rises from the depths of the psyche
to the light of day.

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Use of this book
You do not need any prior knowledge of Tarot to use this book. It is also not
necessary to have experience in psychotherapy or art. The activities are
designed to help you reflect and to be fun and accessible to anyone open to
Tarot. And if you're already familiar with Tarot, whether as a professional
reader or as an amateur, this book will add an extra dimension to your
practice that you can share with patients and friends. So take some time to
reflect through the exercises and discover which ones connect with you. How
you incorporate them into your life is up to you.
At the same time, these exercises and activities are designed to serve as a
foundation for deeper therapeutic work carried out with the help of a trained
professional. Maybe you work in the mental health field as a psychologist,
nurse, social worker, or therapist. You can use any of the exercises and
activities in this book in your therapy with a client because they encourage the
self-reflection that is necessary for personal growth. Furthermore, when a
person participates in expressive art projects, tangible records of the
understanding gained remain with the person, as well as the personal change
experienced in the creative process.
In the therapeutic context, Tarot can also serve as a bridge, creating a
connection between two people and their worlds. This bond manifests a space
that is full of potential and possibilities. Using the cards in this way decreases
the sense of isolation and can generate or reinforce a therapeutic relationship,
as shared understandings develop.
Additionally, Tarot is capable of stimulating a healing dialogue with a patient.
It can allow a person to share what is important, without having to rely on the
limitations of words. That is, a person can speak through images. For
example, Tarot can create a way to structure a difficult dialogue by providing
concrete suggestions for someone who is struggling to express themselves
verbally. Whether using the cards alone, or with their inclusion in works of
art, a person can speak in the third person telling a story with the cards. This
allows the external expression of what had previously been kept deeply buried
within.
Naturally, the exercises and activities in this book can also be applied to
therapy groups, workshops, and classes. If you want to use one of the

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activities in this way, consider your group's goals and what exercise or project
best meets their needs. It is your responsibility as a professional to create an
environment of safety for the group, because that is what is necessary for the
members to feel comfortable participating in the creative process. This is
especially true when we use Tarot cards; Many people continue to associate
Tarot with black magic or satanism. But in my journey, I have also found
many people interested in cards to use them in activities related to the
expressive arts.
However, due to their cultural "baggage", please be sensitive when sharing
Tarot with others. I have realized that when people are not familiar with Tarot
cards or have some type of religious belief against them, it is quite useful to
make known the historical background and what the evolution and historical
development of the Tarot itself has been like. After all, the cards come from
the Italian Renaissance Catholic tradition, which used Christian imagery, and
these decks were originally used as a card game (not for divination).
In my experience, once people understand that the cards will not be used for
fortune telling, they relax. That said, I believe that psychotherapists in
particular underestimate the number of their patients who already use Tarot in
their personal lives and who would welcome its use in a therapeutic context.
The beauty of using arts and crafts or crafts in a group setting is that the
experience of creating art alongside others and then sharing the works is often
positive, as it fosters a powerful sense of community and group. . Giving and
receiving within a group can also be an opportunity for understanding and
growth, as members explore risk-taking. Additionally, they develop
interpersonal skills such as empathy and respect, and learn to feel confident in
“owning” their personal style of art.

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The power of ritual and why it is important
I hope at this point you are already excited about the idea of using Tarot cards
as a means to develop creativity, self-awareness and healing. But before you
dive into the rest of the book, I'd like you to consider how ritualizing these
activities makes the experience even more meaningful. Whether for yourself,
with another person, or with a group, having a ritualistic perspective serves to
deepen the process.
A ritual, in its traditional definition, is understood as a symbolic action that is
carried out for a specific purpose, in order to move a person from one
psychological state to another. Rituals therefore delineate and honor the
boundaries between different states of being, whether temporary or
permanent. A ritual provides a sense of structure to an activity, and
establishes the starting point for what may come next.
A particular mindset is what differentiates a ritual action from something
more mundane. First, there is a sense of clarity regarding the intention or
purpose of participating in the activity. Second, deliberate attention is paid to
every aspect of the activity: before, during, and after. By consciously deciding
to "perform a ritual," a person makes the decision to create a separate, special
space in their daily life for something that is particularly meaningful. It
doesn't matter how brief or elaborate the activity is; it becomes a ritual (and
therefore something special) because a person has consciously given it that
meaning.
By viewing the exercises and activities in this book as rituals, you can give
them personal meaning. Working on the following questions will help you
delve deeper into the overall experience.
1. What is your reason for choosing this particular activity or exercise
right now?
2. What meaning could this activity have for you?
3. What memories do you want to take with you once you have finished
this activity?
4. How do you want to feel while participating in your activity?
5. How do you want to feel after you're done with her?
6. What preparation is necessary to carry out the activity?
7. How far in advance should you start preparing?
8. What materials do you need?
9. Should this activity be private or open to others?
10. Will this activity be a one-time event or will it occur on a regular basis?
11. On what day and at what time will it take place?
12. Which will take place?
13. How long would you like it to last?
14. Is there a particular ritual you would like to use to mark the start of the
activity? Some ideas include lighting a candle or incense, diffusing an
essential oil, playing a certain piece of music, singing, or reading a
poem or prayer aloud.
15. Is there any way in which the activity can be ritually concluded?
Options may include ringing a bell, spending time in meditation or
silent prayer, blowing out a candle, washing your hands, or slowly and
deliberately putting away materials.
16. What will you do to decompress or recover once you complete the
activity?
When an exercise or activity is over, it can be helpful (either immediately
afterwards or later, when you are ready) to review your experience and
consider how it has affected you. Whether talking to another person or writing
in your personal journal, the following questions will help you process what
has happened.
What did you experience during the activity?
What types of thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations did you notice?
Was participation in the activity a satisfactory experience? Why or why not?
What was the most meaningful part of the activity for you?
Now that you have completed this activity, have any new insights emerged
for you?
Is there anything you need to do next?
The structure of the tarot deck
Although you don't have to be familiar with the traditional meanings of each
of the Tarot cards, I will be referencing different parts of the deck throughout
this book. Therefore, if you are new to Tarot, I would like to provide you with
a brief introduction.
The Tarot deck I have chosen to use in my own practice is the Waite-Smith
deck (also known as the Rider-Waite deck). This is a very popular and easily
accessible deck. It was first published in 1909. The design was carried out by
Arthur E. Waite and was illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith.
The Waite-Smith deck, like most other decks, contains seventy-eight cards
and is divided into two sections. The first is twenty-two cards and is known as
the major arcana. Arcanum is a word that comes from Latin and means
"secret" or "mystery." Therefore, the main arcana are the "great secrets." Each
card in this group has a name (such as “The Lovers,” “The Moon,” “The
Sun,” etc.). It begins with “The Fool” (with the number zero) and ends with
“The World” (with the number twenty-one).
The second part of the deck consists of fifty-six cards and is known as the
minor arcana. It is divided into four suits of fourteen cards each: pentacles,
clubs, cups, and swords. Each suit contains cards numbered one through ten,
plus four "court cards" or “royal cards” (the jack, the knight, the queen, and
the king).
If you are interested in learning more about the world of Tarot, the following
books will help you get started:
• Learning the Tarot: A Tarot Book for Beginners, by Joan Bunning
• 78 Degrees of Wisdom, by Rachel Pollack
• 21 Ways to Read a Tarot Card, by Mary Greer
• Tarot for Your Self: A Workbook for Personal Transformation, by
Mary Greer
• Tarot and the Tree of Life: Finding Everyday Wisdom in the Minor
Arcana, by Isabel Radow Kliegman

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Tools and materials
To carry out the activities and exercises in this book, it will be helpful to have
the following on hand:
A notebook or diary (we will call it “your personal diary” from now on).
Whether in paper or digital format. It is very helpful to keep a journal
dedicated to the exercises in this book. If you decide on a paper journal, think
about the type of pencil or pen you like to write with – Believe it or not… it
makes a difference!
Your favorite Tarot. As I mentioned above, I typically use the Waite-Smith
deck because its imagery connects deeply with me. However, there are
literally hundreds of Tarot decks to choose from, each with a different theme
or art style. The search for a deck that truly connects with you is a fun and
important journey in itself. My recommendation is to visit www.aeclectic.net ,
a website where you can easily obtain information on a large number of
decks.
Additional Tarot decks. Since Tarot cards will be used in many of the arts
and crafts exercises in this book, it is important to have spare decks. One of
the reasons I prefer the Waite-Smith deck is because it is available in four
sizes: mini, small, medium, or standard and large. This possibility, which you
can find in your local or online bookstore, provides a range of options, in
terms of artistic choice.
I recognize that in certain contexts, letters are indeed sacred and need to be
treated as such; In fact, I treat the decks I use for Tarot readings with care. But
for the purposes of this book, you will have to get used to manipulating Tarot
cards in an artistic way. This means doing things like gluing them to surfaces
or cutting them into pieces.
Craft materials. For each artistic activity in this book you will need to use
certain craft materials. A proposal for a complete craft box would include:
• Various types of paper, cardboard, cardstock, and poster board (white
and in ******ebook converter DEMO Watermarks*******
various colors, in various sizes).
• Several pairs of good quality scissors (they tend to disappear).
• Colored pencils, crayons, markers, pens and pencils.
• Paints (such as oils and watercolors), as well as brushes and sponges of
different sizes.
• Antique copies of a wide variety of magazines, newspapers, calendars,
photographs and brochures.
• Adhesive tape and cellophane.
• Embellishments such as threads, buttons, beads, rope, feathers,
seashells, glitter, sequins, fabric, stickers and bows.
• Glue Sticks and Rubber Cement Don't forget a good number of cheap
brushes to apply the glue!
***
With this project, I set out to write the type of book that I would have liked to
have had when I was beginning my journey into the exciting world of Tarot.
Putting it all together in one book has been a creative challenge and a fun
experience for me. And my love for Tarot has been reaffirmed. In particular,
I'm passionate about the Waite-Smith deck. Pamela Colman Smith created a
timeless set of images that have a multitude of uses. I'm sure Pixie would be
surprised by the wide impact of her work. His art will truly last forever.
Finally, I hope this book inspires you to develop your own creative and
therapeutic activities using Tarot cards.
The only limit is your imagination! Let's go for it!

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Letters as precursors of
conversation

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Personal relationships
As we all know, a picture is worth a thousand words. And sometimes, having
to choose a single image to represent something forces us to communicate
more clearly and honestly with ourselves and others.
In this activity, you will need to consider the connection you have with key
words and phrases, using Tarot cards as a means of communication. That is, I
would like you to think in metaphorical terms about your personal
relationship with each element of the Tarot. Is strong? Weak? Problematic?
Conflictive? Close? Safe? Fragile? It's broken? Distant? Solidarity?
Demanding? Healthy? Harmonious? Genuine? Superficial? Predictable? With
ups and downs? Significant? Of love? Of hate?
You can make the entire list in one sitting, or be more selective. It depends on
how you feel. You will recognize these feelings in your heart. Let your
intuition guide you to find your connection with each of the Tarot cards. So,
when you are ready, please look at your Tarot card and choose the card that
best represents your personal relationship with:
• Time.
• The money.
• Love.
• Food.
• Reality.
• With yourself.
• Your partner (if you have one).
• Your child or children (if you have them).
• Your mother/father (whether they are with you or deceased).
• Your work.
• Your career.
• Your community.
• Your free time.
• The fun.
• Taking care of yourself.
• Your personal growth.
• Nature.
• Death.

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• Your body.
• Your spiritual beliefs.
• Your Higher Power (Your God).
• Your religious organization.
What to do with this information is up to you. Perhaps the most important
thing to consider is whether you are satisfied with how your current
relationship is with each of the points we have mentioned above. What would
you need to change to make it different?

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The three basic times
Choose a card that represents your past, another that represents your present,
and another that represents your future.

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Pain management
Which card in your Tarot deck represents your pain? Which represents relief?

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Self-development
Choose three cards that represent characteristics that you would like to
develop by and for yourself. What aspects of those cards are attractive to you?
Because?

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The Hero's Path
We don't even have to risk the adventure alone, because the heroes of all time
have gone before us; the labyrinth is meticulously known; We just have to
follow the thread of the hero's path. And where we had thought to find
something abominable, we will find a god; and where we had thought to kill
another, we will kill ourselves; and where we had thought we were leaving,
we will reach the center of our own existence; and where we had thought we
would be alone, we will be with the world.
Joseph Campbell
The heroes travel, face dragons and discover the treasure of their own
identity.
Carol Pearson
Work with your Tarot card, review it little by little, and choose a card that
represents the dragon you are fighting in your life. Then choose one or more
cards that will help you kill this dragon. Finally, decide which card represents
the treasure that will be yours once the dragon is defeated.

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Cards for every mood
Suppose I ask you, "How are you feeling today?"
What could be your answer?
"I'm fine". "Regular". "Thoughtful".
Some people have difficulty verbally expressing how they feel. And
sometimes, our verbal response simply doesn't do justice to what we are
feeling inside.
The process of choosing one or more cards to reflect your mood offers you
the opportunity to communicate in a forceful, non-verbal way. In this way,
this activity transforms a simple question and its answer into a deliberate act
of self-reflection.
Take your deck and choose the card or cards that best reflect your mood at
this moment or these days.

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Option
Also choose a card to represent the mood you would like to be feeling.

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The lesson
Sometimes we have a habitual way of thinking or behaving (patterns) that
lead us to unsatisfactory situations.
For example, some people find that being a perfectionist leads to frustration
and dissatisfaction. For others, the fear of success creates a sense of loss and
untapped potential.
The question is whether or not we are aware of the causes and effects of our
patterns. Is there a lesson we need to learn in our lives in order to achieve a
more fulfilling future? Are we willing and able to learn this lesson to change
our behavior patterns?
Take time to consider the patterns in your life and your usual way of doing
things. Is there a lesson you've had to repeat because you haven't fully learned
it yet? Have you tripped over the same rock more than once?
When you are ready, slowly and calmly look at the cards in your deck.
Choose the card that best represents your life lesson. What is the image that
really symbolizes what you have to learn and change in your life? How does
it make you feel?

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The art of giving
Choose the Tarot card you would give to each of the following people as a
gift. Explain your reasons.
• A person you love (think of someone in particular).
• Your father.
• Your mother.
• A friend.
• Your current “I”.
• Your inner child.
• A co-worker.
• Your boss or supervisor.

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Follow the leader
Look at your deck to find answers to the following questions:
• Which card will lead you to happiness?
• Which card will give you peace?
• Which card will lead you to your healing?
• Which card will guide you to your inner strength?

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Lose and find
Is there something you have lost in your life? Find the card that represents it.
Is it something you need to find again? If so, what card will help you
rediscover him or find him again so he comes back into your life?

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free association
Choose a card from your deck at random; place it face down. When you're
ready, flip it over. What word or phrase immediately comes to mind?

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The boom
What are you looking for?
Look at the cards and find the one that represents the answer to that question.
Once this is done, you can choose another card that represents what will help
you find it.

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Your family legacy
The term “your family legacy” refers to the expectations, roles,
responsibilities, and rules that are passed down from generation to generation.
The goal is to choose 4 cards to represent the legacy that has been passed
down to you from your parents or caregivers. Once you've found them, ask
yourself: "Do I really want to maintain this legacy? Or now that I think about
it, would it be better for me to free myself?"

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The deal
Choose a card at random from the Major Arcana. Next, ask him the following
two questions:
What do you offer me?
What do you want from me in return?

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Yin Yang
Which card from the Tarot deck represents your rational side? Which card
represents your emotional side? How can you create a balance between both
in your life? Is there a third card that could symbolize this type of integration
of opposites ?

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Movie star
If your life has become a movie, which card would you choose to play your
character?

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Hope
Choose one or more cards from your deck that represent what you hope for
your future.

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Pride
Choose one or more cards that represent what you are most proud of in your
life.

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Imagine this!
Look at your Tarot deck and choose four cards; The first represents a problem
you have; The second represents an obstacle that prevents you from
overcoming this problem; The third card represents what will allow you to
overcome and eliminate that obstacle. And finally, the fourth card represents
the future without your problem.

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Similes (part I)
Complete each of the following sentences by choosing cards from your deck:
• Currently, my life is like...
• I would like my life to be…
• Work is like…
• I would like my job to be…
• Money is like…
• My energy is higher when…
• My family is like…

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Similes (part II)
What cards do you think would be the best choices for the following similes?
If you do this exercise with other people, please explain your reasoning.
Brave as a lion.
Blind as a mole.
As dry as a bone.
As tender as a lamb.
As happy as a quail.
As strong as a bull.
As fast as lightning.
As hard as a rock.
As sweet as honey.
As cold as ice.
Straight as an arrow.
As fresh as a lettuce.
As cunning as a fox.
Free as a bird.
As pure as mountain water.
As soft as silk.
As solid as a rock.
As robust as an oak.
The challenge
It's often easy:
• Forgetting how resourceful, powerful and strong we really are.
• Remember our limitations and failures.
• Focus on everything that has not gone well for us in life.
Sometimes it seems as if our minds are focused exclusively on negativity.

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But it is also true that one of the few things we truly have control over in life
is our attention , and where we choose to direct it. So what can happen if we
consciously make the decision to direct our attention in a more constructive
direction? What can happen if we decide to remember a moment in our lives
when something really important went well? Is it possible to remember and
honor our most positive memories?
Please reflect on the following questions:
What has been the biggest challenge you have faced in your life?
What was it about that challenge that was so difficult for you?
How did you overcome that challenge? What inner strengths did you draw
on? Were there external resources helping you?
Once you overcame this challenge, what did you learn about yourself and the
world around you?
Now is the time to grab your Tarot deck. What card or cards remind you of
your challenge?
Your next task is to find the cards that represent the factors that allowed you
to overcome that challenge.
What characteristics do you observe about them?

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Letters as inspiration for
writing

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personal power
Aim
Let's create the realization and understanding that you are a capable human
being with more power than you think.

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Background
Sometimes it's easy to overlook everything you've accomplished in your life.
It can be easy and tempting to see yourself as a victim or as someone who has
little or no personal power. That's why it's important, to achieve your goals, to
take a step back and consider the power you really do have over your life.
Please answer the following questions in your personal journal:
What risks have you taken in your life?
What are 5 challenges you have had to overcome?
List 3 fears (big or small) that you have faced and overcome.
What is the most difficult thing you have had to overcome?
What have you learned about yourself from that experience?
What have you learned about life from that experience?
How would you define the word "power"?

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Process
Look at your Tarot deck and look for a card that you can use as a symbol of
your personal power. At the same time, you can choose a card that represents
you using your power in a situation in your life.
The letter you have chosen serves to communicate something very important
to you. In your journal, please write his message. Once you've finished
writing, be aware of how you feel.

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The survivor
Aim
Our goal is to access that strong, powerful part of yourself that remains strong
and standing after you have overcome a difficult experience.

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Background
By its very nature, a traumatic experience strips a person of a sense of control.
It also affects our plans and predictability for the future. It raises questions
about the meaning of life, about why bad things happen to good people, about
destiny...
Often, after a traumatic event, it is much easier to remain stuck in the past and
continually obsess over the role one played in the event. This can lead to
feelings of guilt and low self-esteem.
The challenge, for anyone who has experienced trauma, is to find a way to
make sense of the experience in order to recover from it.
Please answer the following in your personal journal:
What is the most difficult thing you have experienced in your life?
What have you learned about yourself in relation to that experience?
What have you learned about life after that experience?
How has that event shaped your life?
What does that specific event mean within your broad life story?
How could that event be the basis for some kind of contribution you could
make to the world?
How might that event allow you to deepen your relationship with yourself and
others?
What makes you a survivor?
Process

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Your task is to slowly look at your Tarot deck and find a card that represents
you as a survivor after a difficult experience. This card will be the symbol of
your strength, faith and persistence. This will serve as a reminder that you
have not given up, and that you have indeed made your way through a
crucible of fire.
The letter you have chosen would like to communicate with you. He has
something very important to tell you and that you should listen to.
In your personal journal, please write the message of this letter. When you're
done, pay attention to how you feel. And make a decision about what you
would like to do with this particular card. What can you do to honor both the
message it brought you, as well as the letter itself? What can you do to make
sure you don't forget what you've learned about yourself by doing this
exercise?

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Your birthday guests
Aim
The objective of this section is to choose the six Tarot cards that you would
like to invite to your birthday party.

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Background
Thinking about the cards as guests at a personal, private event is a powerful
way to get in touch with qualities that are important to you. Often these
characteristics are ones we admire in ourselves or wish we possessed.
In addition to being a cause for reflection... this exercise is also a fun game to
practice with others!

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Process
Think about the type of birthday party you would like to have.
Will it take place at your home? In a restaurant? A picnic in the countryside?
What would the atmosphere be?
Look at the deck and choose the six cards that will be your guests. At the
same time, remember that these are the cards you would like to be present
with during an important day in your life.
Once you have them, finish filling in the following sentences for each one in
your journal:
1. I chose you because:
2. Your message to me is:
3. Your gift to me is:
4. The best way for me to use your gift would be:

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Negative positive
Aim
Our goal in this chapter is to understand that things are not always what they
seem.

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Background
Let's start by remembering an ancient Zen story:
Once upon a time, a long time ago, there was an old farmer who had worked
cultivating his land for many years. One day the horse ran away. Upon
hearing the news, his neighbors went to visit him. "What bad luck," they said
appreciatively.
"Perhaps," replied the peasant.
The next morning the horse returned, bringing with it three new wild horses.
"How wonderful," the neighbors exclaimed.
"Perhaps," replied the old man.
The next day, his son tried to ride one of the wild horses, was thrown and
broke his leg. The neighbors, once again, offered him support in his
misfortune.
"Maybe," he replied.
A day later, military officials came to town to recruit young men to serve in
the army. Seeing the farmer's son with a broken leg, they passed by. The
neighbors congratulated the farmer.
"Maybe," he answered.
***
"Black and white thinking" is believing that something is completely good or

completely bad. Having this type of polarizing perspective means that we see
the world in absolute terms. There is no middle ground.
For example:
always vs never
Good vs. bad
Right vs. wrong
smart vs stupid
Success vs failure
strong vs weak

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Useful vs. Useless
Possible vs. impossible
This way of thinking oversimplifies things. As the Zen story demonstrates,
nothing is necessarily totally good or bad. It all depends on the context. With
the wisdom we gain over time and experience, we often learn that life is more
complicated and ambiguous than we might have originally believed.

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Process
Grab your Tarot deck and choose a card that doesn't connect with you. That
is, what is the card you like the least? Maybe you feel that there is one in
particular that has a negative message or contains bad energy. Or maybe, for
whatever reason, you just don't like it.
Once you have found that letter, I would like you to study it. Look at her with
compassionate eyes and without being harsh. Your goal is to think of a
situation in which that "negativity" in the card could actually become a
positive force.
In your personal journal, write down something about the card (symbolism
and/or a message) that could change the way you interpret it.
In particular, I would like you to complete the following sentence:
"One day in the future, this particular letter will save my life because..."

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Letters to ask you questions
Aim
Our goal is to take into account the power of a well thought out and
formulated question.

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Background
Please read the following quotes carefully.
The question is a basic tool for rebellion. The stagnant and hardened shells of
the present are broken, revealing ambiguity and opening up new options to be
explored.
Fran Peavey
Questioning can change your entire life. Hidden power and drowned dreams
can be discovered within you... things that you may have denied for many
years.
Fran Peavey
The important thing is not to stop asking questions.

Albert Einstein
A well thought out question can:

• Provide a challenge.
• Change your perspective on yourself.
• Stimulate self-reflection.
• Remove a hidden part of the soul.
• Cause a change.
• Generate energy.
• Raise more questions.
Questions are powerful catalysts for introspection and self-growth. Questions
can surprise us, leading us down unexpected paths. Or they reconnect us to
the truths buried within us for a long time.
It is important to take time in our lives from time to time to check and reflect
on the thoughts and feelings that well-formulated questions can generate in
us.

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Process
We usually expect Tarot cards to provide us with answers to our questions. In
this exercise, however, you will use the cards themselves to generate
questions. And once you've done that, you can use these questions to help you
write in your personal journal.
Starting with The Fool, answer the following question for each of the major
arcana:
If the letter could talk, what question or questions would it ask you?
In order to generate your questions, study each card carefully. Pay attention to
all its elements.
What different symbols do you perceive? Which image stands out the most?
How many figures are drawn on the card? What is each one doing? What is
the name of the letter? What is the energy of the card? What is the message of
the letter? Does it contain multiple messages?
Use different pages for each question. Write in the upper right corner of each
page the name of the Tarot card with which you are working each question.
Now shuffle the cards of the major arcana of the Tarot. Choose one at random
and go to the page in your personal journal where you wrote down the
questions that letter would ask you. Assume that you have received these
particular questions for a good reason and that they are important for your
self-knowledge and development.
Your task is to answer each of the questions in your personal diary. You can
do it right away or over the course of a few days.
Now you have powerful prompts to write in your personal journal! And
what's more, you can access them whenever you want! Maybe you can do this
exercise as a daily or weekly ritual.
Examples of questions for the letter from The Hierophant :
• What do you need to remember?
• Why is it important for you to be patient?
• Are you in harmony with your life cycles and rhythms?
• How are you honoring your intuition?

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• How are you recognizing your dark side?
• What is the mystery in your life?
Examples of questions for El Loco 's letter:
• Where are you going?
• What do you feel silly about?
• What do you do for fun?
• How are you being true to yourself?
• How are you expanding your horizons?
• How can you achieve greater naturalness in your life?
• Who do you need to trust?

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Option
If you're feeling upbeat, you can ask questions for each of the Minor Arcana
cards as well.
Example questions for The Five of Swords :
• What currently scares you the most?
• What “no-win” situation are you in? What would be the best way out?
• Why is it important to put your own needs before those of others?
• How have your values, principles and standards in life diminished?
Because?
• Who do you have to be smarter with? What is the best way to do it?
Example questions for The Three of Cups:
• Where is the joy in your life?
• How are you sharing the gifts of life?
• What do you need to celebrate something?
• How solid is the environment of people you rely on?
• What is the community you identify with?
Examples of questions for The Page of Pentacles :
• What does your body tell you?
• How do you live with nature?
• How do you honor your dreams?
• How are you true to yourself?
• How can you enjoy more and better what you already have?
• Where does your heart lead you?
• What current interest or concern might be worthy of a long-term
commitment?

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Inner child dialogues
Backgrou
nd
Aim
The objective we set for ourselves in this section is to know and communicate
with different aspects of yourself.

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The term "inner child" generally refers to the part of our psyche that continues
to hold memories and feelings originally experienced during childhood.
Each person, however, usually has more than one "inner child" because they
each coexist as independent entities. These aspects of ourselves can be easily
accessible or, conversely, deeply buried.
Here are some examples of inner children:
• The playful child.
• The creative child.
• The spoiled child.
• The abandoned child.
• The fearful child.
• The injured child.
• The canceled child.
The inner child tool is typically used to explore our needs, both those of the
past and those we have in the present. But what are these needs and why are
they so important?
A need, whether physical or emotional, is something that is essential to
achieve for a person's well-being. When a need is met, we feel healthy and
satisfied. Unmet needs leave us feeling bad, frustrated and resentful.
As human beings, we all share the vital needs of air, water and food.
However, regarding emotional needs, sometimes we perceive them in a
stronger way and other times, they go unnoticed, since each person is unique.
However, to varying degrees, most of us have the need to feel:
• Safe and secure.
• Connected with others.
• Accepted.

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• With things under control.
• Beloved.
Backgrou
nd• With a life full of meaning and meaning.
Our current behaviors, thoughts, and feelings are often generated in response
to needs that were not met when we were children. Because they were not
met, these needs continue to exist into adulthood.
So, how about we communicate with our younger “Self” in order to discover
what it has been yearning for all these years? And what if now, as an adult,
you discover that you have the power to be your own parent. I mean, what if
you knew you could give yourself what you never received as a child? How
would it change your life?

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Process
Look at your Tarot deck and select the card or cards that you feel best
represent you as a child. If you wish, choose different cards that match
different ages and states of your being. For example, one card may represent a
three-year-old child (playful child), another may represent you as a ten-year-
old child (abandoned child), and another may represent you as a teenager
(nullified child). The important thing is to follow your intuition.
When you have chosen your cards, grab your personal journal. For each card,
write down each of the questions I show you below on different pages
(without answering them). You will ask these questions to the cards as your
adult “I”.
After you have finished writing the questions, then answer each of them as
your “I” as a child . Write with your non-dominant hand. Don't worry about
neatness or how big you write your letters. In fact, you can use colored
pencils if you prefer. Writing this way will allow your inner child to express
himself and communicate more easily and comfortably with you.
1. Who are you?
2. How old are you?
3. Where are you?
4. What are you doing?
5. What can I do to earn your trust?
6. What do I need to know about you?
7. What do you most long for?
8. What do you need from me?
9. How can I show you that I love you?
10. What does it take to heal your pain?
11. What message do you have for me?
After writing your answers, it's important to tell your inner child that you
appreciate the time you've spent together. And if necessary, be sure to let him
know that you will be in touch again.
Review each of the answers to the questions. Now is the time to

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decide what to do with the information you have received. Remember that
this is a powerful exercise. There are probably parts of yourself that have
been thirsty for recognition and contact. Developing close, intimate
relationships with your "inner children" has the potential to lead to a sense of
wholeness and peace that grows as you begin to recognize and respond to the
deepest needs of your being.

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Letter to your parents
Aim
The goal in this section is to access and then express your feelings about your
parents.

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Backgrou
nd people have ambivalent feelings about their parents, harboring
Most
conflicting emotions at the same time. Our parents (or caregivers) often
showed us their deep love. But at the same time, it may be that they have
treated us in a way in which they have transmitted to us something “ not at
all like ” love.
The important questions now are, as adults, what are we currently doing with
those feelings? Is there anything we need to communicate to our parents now
that we have grown up?
It is vitally important to have a means to express what we feel about our
parents, either directly or indirectly to them. It is an opportunity to be able to
release feelings that have been repressed for decades, and create a sense of
closure and peace with yourself, which can be healing.

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Process
Look at your Tarot card and choose the cards that represent your parents or
caregivers. That is, choose a card for each person who raised you. Then, when
you are ready, answer the following questions in your personal journal:
1. Why did you choose that specific card to represent this person?
2. If this letter could speak through you and address your father, mother or
caregiver, what message would it give them?
3. What gift does the letter have for you?
Now I would like you to return with your Tarot deck. Your goal is to choose a
card that represents each caregiver you have had as you wish this person
would have been. Once you have found these letters, please answer the
following questions in your personal journal:
1. What aspects of the letter connect most with you? Because?
2. How can you incorporate its energy into the current moment of your
life?
3. What message does this letter have for you?
4. What gift does this letter have for you?
Your final task is to write a letter to your parent or caregiver. In this letter,
your goal is to share with that person a message that is important to you.
Notice what emerges as you:
• You think about what you are going to write in the letter.
• You write the letter.
Pay attention to how you feel once you've written the letter. This can be an
actual letter to send to a parent or caregiver. Or it may be something you will
keep to yourself. Or also, it can be something to destroy (in a ritual, for
example). It's up to you to decide what the next step should be. The most
important thing is to follow your intuition.

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Parent dialogues
Aim
Our goal is to think about how you experienced love or criticism from your
parents. Next, you will express your feelings about these interactions.

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Backgrou
nd
Generally, we learn how to deal with ourselves based on the experiences we
have had with our parents growing up. At times, we may have felt that one or
both parents were judging or criticizing us. On the other hand, we may also
have grown up with the unconditional support of one or both parents.
For whatever psychological reason, it seems that most of us, by the time we
become adults, usually end up internalizing the voice of the "critical parent"
to a greater extent than that of the "loving parent." When we do something
"wrong," our parents' disapproval still rings clearly in our ears, as if they were
standing right in front of us.
It is important to question that voice in order to end its negative impact. At
the same time, it is necessary to honor the voice of a parent or caregiver who
has supported us.

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Process
Look at your Tarot deck and choose two cards. For example, one card can
symbolize your mother and the other your father. Or you can choose two
cards to represent the different sides of each parent (protective parent and
critical parent).
Find a time and place where you are quiet and will not be interrupted. Take
out your personal diary. It begins with the card that represents the “critical
parent.” Be aware that the letter is communicating with you. Write in your
journal what he is telling you. Then, respond as your adult “I.” Knowing what
you know now, how could you question the destructive criticism you are
hearing? You can also ask the letter why that parent treated you the way they
did.
When you're done, focus on the card that represents your “protective parent.”
As before, imagine that the letter is communicating with you. Write down his
message in your journal. Next, write the dialogue you would have with him as
your adult “I”. What would you like to say to your father/mother who protects
children?
To complete this exercise, now decide what to do with each of the cards you
have chosen. For example, you can put the card that represents your critical
parent in a box and then hide it. Or you could build a shrine in your room in
which the card that represents your protective father is present. Or maybe you
could keep that letter positive in some way, by posting it somewhere visible,
like in your car or using it as a bookmark.
The important thing to remember is that internalizing your parents'
disapproval no longer serves your interests, while the memory of their love is
worthy of your attention.

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Stand up to your inner critic
Aim
Challenge the negativity of your inner critic.

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Backgrou
nd "inner critic" is the destructive voice in your head that makes critical
The
comments and judgments. Internal criticism creates bad feelings or a feeling
of sadness and despair about oneself or about a situation.
But where does that internal critical voice come from? After all, you weren't
born with that negative voice in your head! Often, your inner critic is the
voice of someone close to you who said negative things to you or gave you
destructive criticism when you were a child. It could be the constant message
you received from your father telling you that you would “never achieve
anything.” Or the disappointment you felt from your mother because “you
weren't perfect.” Maybe it was a teacher who made fun of you because "you
weren't smart." Or a priest or priest whose sermons about "hell" seemed to be
addressed especially to you.
When we are children we absorb these messages quickly and deeply, and as
time goes by, we begin to believe in them. The voices we hear grow and
become part of our psyche.
Because your inner critic's messages make you feel bad and impose
limitations on your life, it's important to see your inner critic for what he or
she is: not a truth-sender with unlimited powers to make you feel bad about
yourself, but rather a fiction of your imagination that you can actually control.
It's time to meet your inner critic, so you can decide what to do about it.
Get to it when you feel calm and collected. Next, close your eyes and think
about going back to a time when your inner critic was harassing you. Then,
answer the following questions:
What is your inner critic like? Is it a person, monster, animal or thing?
How do you dress? What colors are associated with it?
How is its size? Does it seem big to you?
What does he do when he criticizes you? Does it remain on you? Does he sit
next to you? Does he lean over your shoulder?
What kind of voice does he have? Noisy? A whisper? Scathing?

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Process
Now, look at your deck and choose the card that you feel is closest to this
being that tells you things that make you feel bad about yourself. Place the
letter aside. Take out your journal. Now you will start a dialogue with the
card, that is, with your inner critic. Ask the following questions and write the
answers in your journal with your non-dominant hand.
1. Where you come from?
2. What do you want of me?
3. What do you keep me attached to?
4. How can you help me?
5. What can you teach me?
6. What are you scared of?
7. How can we commit?
8. Is it necessary to let you go completely or is it better that you still have
a place in my psyche?
Once you're done writing, take a break. Then, when you're ready, review the
comments you wrote again. You now have a wealth of information about your
inner critic. Use it to decide what to do to find peace.
You could:
• Create an imaginary funeral or divorce.

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• Bury or burn something that represents your inner critic.
• Use your imagination to meet your inner critic and ask him or her to
step aside.
• Create a place out of your way for him to live.
If you still find your inner critic acting up, you can verbally object. For
example, you can hold the card that represents him in your hand and then
directly explain to him the reasons why it is not okay for him to treat you that
way. Remember that you are big and he is small. You are in charge and you
do not deserve to be treated by your inner critic in such a negative way. You
can reason calmly, or just tell him to shut up. Now, you have the power to
decide!

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The letter of your soul
Aim
In this section we are going to find the card that represents who you are at
your deepest level.

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Backgrou
nd if you were able to discover a pictorial representation of yourself, of
What
what you really are like? Would it be healing to connect with the essence of
your being? Do you want to see your soul in a card, and then hold it in your
hand, so that it is easier to pay attention to it? To take care of her?
Sometimes it is difficult to define your essence. After all, words can be so
limiting! Luckily, you have 78 cards to give you some clues.

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Process
Little by little, look at your Tarot deck. As you do, ask yourself:
What cards represent who I really am? If my soul has a form, how would it
appear?
Make a small pile with those cards that connect with you. When you're done,
turn your attention to those cards and look through them. Look for the card
with which you feel that your soul is represented.
Once you've found it, these are the questions you'll ask your soul (write the
answers in your journal with your non-dominant hand):
1. What knowledge do you bring me?
2. What gift do you bring me?
3. What needs do you have?
4. What are you scared of?
5. How can I help you better?
Now I would like you to return to your deck. This time look for a card that
will be in charge of taking care of your soul. Which card do you think has the
ability to protect this important aspect of yourself?
When you have found this letter, go back to your journal once again. With
this card in front of you, please answer these questions (again with your non-
dominant hand):
What are your needs?
How can I support you, help you and keep you strong?
***
What you now do with your two cards is up to you. You can build a shrine or
altar for them. Or carry them with you in your pocket or bag. Or perhaps
incorporate them into a work of art. The important thing is that these two
aspects of yourself are now more present and have reaffirmed themselves in
your conscious awareness, where they deserve to be.

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Transient trauma
Aim
The objective of this section is to take control over a traumatic event from the
past.

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nd
Sometimes it is difficult to remove images of a distressing or traumatic
experience from our minds. They become agitated causing anxiety and pain.
But is it possible to externalize these traumatic memories? What happens if
you represent them through Tarot cards and give a different perspective to
trauma? What happens if, having the cards in your hand, you begin to feel
that you have greater control over what you experienced?

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Process
Look at your Tarot deck and select one or more cards to represent a painful
experience that you have had in the past and that continues to cause you pain
today. Once you've chosen them, take some time to sit with the card(s) and
listen carefully to your intuition.
Here I propose some questions to reflect on in your personal journal:
What would you like to do with the letter(s)? What do you need to do?
What is it about the physical nature of Tarot cards (their texture, the way you
feel them, how you hold them in your hand, their weight...) that changes your
point of view about what happened in the past?
What is it about the image on each card that makes you see what happened in
a new light?
What type of ritual can be practiced with the card(s) that can empower and
strengthen you?
Do you feel the need to physically do something with the letter? For example,
burn it? break? bury her?
What would happen if you decided to carry your letter(s) with you every day?
And then place it in a special place (like a box) every night? How can you
change your relationship with the traumatic experience?

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Find your defender
Aim
The goal of this section is to identify something or someone that will give you
a sense of power and protection.

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Backgrou
nd “defender” is the part of your psyche whose job it is to protect you from
Your
negativity. It can also make you feel more comfortable and at the same time,
be a source of inspiration. Your defender's interests come from his heart and
he is always on your side. It knows you're doing the best you can - after all,
no one is perfect - and aims to support you when you feel unfairly attacked,
especially by your inner critic.
Your defender can take any form, be it a person, an animal, a superhero, an
element of nature... even yourself. The important thing is that you are able to
connect with your positive energy whenever you need it.

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Process
Look at your Tarot deck and repeat the following words out loud:
"I'm looking for my defender. I'm looking for my protector. "I'm looking for
something or someone who supports me and cares about me unconditionally."
Then you will realize which of the cards connects most with you. Create a
small pile with the cards you chose. Now play with those cards and select, as
you intuitively feel, the one that is going to be your defender.
This is a very important exercise because you now have a representation of
your defender. Because it is embodied in a letter, carry it with you throughout
the day so that you can have it on hand and draw inspiration and strength
from it if needed.
You can also add it to your personal sanctuary, if you already have one. Or
maybe this important letter could inspire you to create one.
In your personal journal, ask your advocate the following questions,
responding with your non-dominant hand:
1. Do you have a name?
2. What is your message for me?
3. How can I help you?
Being able to immediately connect with your advocate is especially helpful
when your inner critic makes an appearance. When you realize that you are
being hit by their criticism, tap into your defender's energy. This type of
protection can truly be a game-changer.

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Strength weakness
Aim
The goal of this chapter is to understand that your greatest strength can also
cause you discomfort if you are not careful.

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Backgrou
nd about the personal quality or characteristic you are most proud of. Or
Think
the one that people constantly comment on or highlight about you. What is it
about you that really makes you unique, or has helped you in life?
Could it be that you are a person who can be trusted?
Or that you are a great listener?
Incredibly creative? Deeply compassionate?
But there is always a dark side to a person's strength. For example, a creative
person who finds it easier to focus on their art and has no interest in the
administrative or business side of their business. Or a compassionate person
who finds it difficult to end a dysfunctional friendship. Or someone who loves
helping others and might invest all their energy in others and ignore their own
needs.
The challenge is twofold. First, make sure you recognize and honor your
greatest strength. And secondly, recognize that if you are not careful, your
strength could be destructive. That is to say, what makes you special also
contains the seeds of your destruction.

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Process
Look at your Tarot deck and look for a card that represents your greatest
strength. Using that letter as a source of inspiration, please answer the
following questions in your journal:
What is your greatest strength? How do you know?
How has your greatest strength positively impacted your life?
Is there an aspect of your greatest strength that could be detrimental to your
well-being? Explain how it has negatively affected you and an example of a
situation in which you have experienced it.
What could you do proactively to ensure that your greatest strength doesn't
become your greatest weakness?

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Embrace the shadow
I prefer to be a complete man than a good man.
Carl Jung

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Aim
The goal of this chapter is to recognize and accept those parts of yourself that
you prefer to deny or hide as if they do not exist, but that are there.

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Backgrou
nd if we enter the world as unique human beings and in one piece, and
What
then, because of our social environment - our parents, our teachers, the media,
religion, peers - we discover, that in the end To be accepted - to be loved, to
be safe, to be "good" - we have to repudiate certain parts of who we are. How
is this understood?
As we grow up, we know that certain things are “wrong,” “wrong,” or “bad,”
and so we begin to deny or repress those parts of ourselves. We hide those
aspects of ourselves from the rest of the world (and from ourselves). Our
original wholeness is shattered. We are no longer of one piece.
The psychologist Carl Jung defined our shadow as the person we do not want
to be. But the shadow also represents the things that we refuse to recognize in
ourselves and that are still there.
Everyone carries a shadow, and the less it manifests in the conscious life of
the individual, the blacker and denser this shadow becomes.
Carl Jung
Unfortunately, the personal cost of a “fragmented self” is very high.
We typically project our shadow aspects onto other people, and become
nervous or upset by others' personality traits, which actually belong to
ourselves as well.
Whether denied or repressed, those parts of ourselves that we ignore
eventually come knocking in one way or another. Sometimes it is through
depression or physical illness. Sometimes it's just the strange feeling that
something is not right with our lives.
Our challenge is to be able to recognize and honor every part of ourselves.
But it's hard to be honest with ourselves. It's hard to change. It is difficult to
show others new aspects of ourselves.
After all, we want the people around us to feel comfortable and accept us, so
we end up repressing or denying parts of ******ebook converter DEMO
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ourselves that could be a threat to them.
Process

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In this exercise, we are going to use the cards to recognize and subsequently
break out of your old patterns. The cards will allow you to connect with - and
make part of your life - what you previously only associated with shame or
had been directly ignored.
Make a list of the parts of yourself that you don't like (for example, you get
angry easily, are too complacent, shy, lazy...) or those parts of yourself that
you feel you haven't paid enough attention to because you haven't considered
important (dreamer, artist, musician, risk lover...).
Now look at your Tarot card and choose the cards that best correspond to
those characteristics on your list. Once you're done, put these cards aside.
Starting one by one, write a description in your journal of what each card
represents and why. Next, from the perspective of each card, finish
completing the following text:
I have a message for you. Is:
I have a gift for you. Is:
It is important that you pay attention to me because:
The best way to honor me is:

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Release
Process
Aim
The goal of this section is to lighten your load by releasing an emotional
problem that you have been carrying for a long time.

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Backgrou
nd read the following story from the Zen tradition:
Please
An older monk and a young monk were traveling together. At one point, they
came to a river with a strong current. When the monks were preparing to
cross the river, they saw a young and beautiful woman also trying to cross.
The young woman asked them if they could help her.
The older monk carried this woman on his shoulders, forded the river and left
her on the other bank. The young monk was very upset, but he did not say
anything.
They were both walking and the older monk noticed that his apprentice was
silent and asked him "what's wrong with you? "You seem very upset."
The young monk replied: "As monks, we are not allowed to touch a woman,
how could he carry that woman on his shoulders?"
The elder monk replied: "I left the woman a long time ago on the other bank
of the river. However, it seems that you are still carrying her on your
shoulders.”
Sometimes we carry something with us that really has to go and get out of our
lives. It could be anger, sadness, pain, regret or resentment. Unresolved
emotional problems often begin to fester within us. As a result, they manifest
as depression, anxiety, sadness, anger or physical pain.
Emotions are meant to be managed as they appear, so that their energy can
pass through us completely. That is, by giving full expression to an emotion,
it completes its energetic wave and dissipates naturally on its own. This is
why stuck emotional energy can be so destructive.
This energy never had the opportunity to naturally resolve its process and that
is why it continues to send messages permanently, from some level it is at,
through our body because it needs to finish what it started. Solving an
emotional problem by releasing its energy will make you feel good, since it
will release stuck energy, which in turn will allow you to move forward with
your life.

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Process

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Take a moment and write in your journal about something that happened in
the past that still has an emotional charge for you. When you have finished
writing, look at your Tarot deck, and choose a card that represents the
situation. Go back to your journal, and with the letter in front of you,
complete the following sentences:
1. What is stopping me from letting you go is:
2. When I free you, I'm going to feel:
3. The best way to set yourself free is by:
When you're done writing, plan your release ritual. It doesn't matter what you
do, as long as it's the card you chose. Its purpose is for you to be able to give
a sense of liberation to the emotional issue you carry. When developing your
ritual, keep the following suggestions in mind (which may be helpful in
making your ritual more effective):
• Before you begin, recognize that your goal is to make known an
emotional problem.
• Give yourself permission to release this problem.
• Concentrate on what you're doing.
• Go slowly and deliberately.
• Be aware of what you are doing.
• Divide the ritual into as many small acts as possible.
• Pay attention to each step of your ritual.
• Spend as much time as necessary; Don't get nervous or feel rushed.
• Follow your intuition. Connect with a deep level, where you know
exactly what you have to do to release your emotions. So pay attention
to what your intuition is telling you.
• Notice how the ritual affects you, both physically and emotionally.
When you have finished the ritual, describe your experience in your personal
journal (either right then or after a few minutes or after a few days).
Process

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Finding Compassion
Aim
The goal of this section is to learn to be kind to yourself.

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Backgrou
nd is self-compassion? In my opinion, it is the ability to show kindness and
What
affection to yourself. It can also mean that you are able to love yourself
unconditionally through self-acceptance and without judgment.
Consider the following quote:
You can search throughout the universe for someone who is more worthy of
your love and affection than yourself, and that person is nowhere to be found.
You yourself, as much as anyone else in the entire universe, deserve your love
and affection.
The Buddha
Unfortunately, people tend to show compassion more easily for other people
or animals than for ourselves.
Here I show you a strategy to connect with your own sense of self-
compassion, using the power of your imagination. This is an important
exercise because many people have not yet had the experience of receiving
compassion and kindness from anyone.
Make sure you can be in a space where you are quiet and won't be interrupted
by anyone. First of all, read these instructions in order to familiarize yourself
with them. Have your journal handy. The most important thing is that you feel
comfortable. You can close your eyes during this exercise or keep them open,
whichever you prefer.
1. Think about a relationship you have had in the past or present, whether
with a person or an animal, that is meaningful to you. Now imagine that
this person or animal is in need and that you can help them. He needs
your kindness and compassion. Take your time to access those feelings.
2. Observe where in your body those feelings of kindness and compassion
for others are located. Take as much time as you need to pay attention to those
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locate. When you're ready, place your hands there. Allow yourself to
feel with your hands what those sensations really make you experience.
Process
You may notice a change in temperature. Or a tingling sensation. It's
different for each person.
3. Now, choose a point on or inside your body, where you believe you
could receive compassion naturally. Follow your intuition in selecting
this place. For example, it could be your heart. Or your belly. Or your
whole body.
4. Imagine gently directing the energy - and sensation - to that place, with
your hands. Spend some time with your hands in that place. Notice how
you feel when compassion and kindness are moving in your direction.
What is it like for you to receive this type of energy?

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Look at your Tarot deck and look for a card that represents your
compassionate side. Even though the card itself is external, I would like you
to consider it as an integral part of your psyche. The important thing is that by
choosing a card to represent this side of yourself, you can more easily
communicate with it. If you do, you will allow it to become an active part of
your life. Use your journal to answer the following questions; ask the menu
you have chosen:
How can you help me?
What can you teach me?
How can I deepen my experience with you?
How can I honor you?

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Your
Process ideal “I”
Aim
Let's choose a card that represents you in all your Glory!

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Backgrou
nd a person who has an interest in your own self-development, it can be
As
helpful to have a powerful image that inspires you. Above all, if that image
brings together the personal qualities that you would like to have. One way to
start imagining your ideal “Self” is to think about the character traits you like
most. I would like you to think about how each of these characteristics are
healthy, healing and empowering.

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Process
First of all, you should make two lists in your journal:
1. The people from the past that you admire.
2. The people of the present that you admire.
After each person's name, write the reasons why you admire them. This
exercise can help you glimpse the qualities that need to be developed in
yourself.
Next, look at your Tarot deck and draw out the cards that contain the qualities
you admire. It is important that there is something about the images or energy
of those cards that attracts you on a deep, essential level of your being.
Put your cards aside. Now, with your small stack of cards, you're going to
narrow down the options and end up choosing just one card. To do this, take
two cards and put them next to each other. Ask yourself which of the two
connects more with you. Keep the one that does, returning the other to the
deck. Next, take another card from your small pile and compare it to the one
you kept from the last round. Repeat this process until only one card remains.
Congratulations! The card you have left represents your ideal “I” (at least at
this moment).
And now, what to do with it? You could:
• Build an altar or shrine, making your card take a place as the
centerpiece.
• Carry it with you during the day as a source of inspiration or protection.
• Place it under your pillow at night.
• Meditate with her.
• Stick it to your bathroom mirror or in your personal journal.
• Use it as a bookmark.

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The guide
Aim
The objective of this section is to choose a card that can serve as a teacher or
guide.

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nd
Having someone to guide us is very helpful - especially when that person is
readily available in the flesh. But what happens if we don't have access to that
person? Could there be another way to get help and important information
about something we are struggling with? Each Tarot card, particularly those
of the major arcana, contains a powerful archetype. Each of these archetypes
offers a unique perspective on the world.
If you feel trapped or at a dead end, consult your "Tarot teacher" who will
give you ideas and insights that you could not obtain otherwise. And since the
cards are so easy to carry around, you now have the opportunity to receive
guidance and help whenever you need it.

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Process
Look at your Tarot deck, and choose the card that you feel may represent
your teacher or guide. It is important that you feel comfortable with this letter,
and that you believe that you can trust its advice.
Now, whenever you need it, you can ask your letter for advice. The answer to
your question will come from the perspective of the letter. That is, you just
have to ask yourself “how would this letter answer my question?” What kind
of advice would this letter give me?”
It's surprising how easy it is to take on the role of a card, all you have to do is
use your imagination!

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Option
You can use each of the twenty-two major arcana as teachers. In your journal,
write down your question. Next, start with The Fool. For example, you might
ask yourself, "What would The Fool tell me to do in this situation?" Or, you
could take the role of the letter by saying out loud:
"I am The Fool. My advice to you is that…”
Don't spend too much time on each letter; rather, write in your journal what
immediately comes to mind. By the time you're done, you'll have twenty-two
different points of view on your problem. Next, you can review what you
wrote and see which of the answers connects most deeply with you.

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See the solution
Aim
Our goal here is to use a card that could represent the solution to a problem.

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Backgrou
nd Tarot is very practical because each of its seventy-eight cards represents
The
something important about the world and our lives in it. If you're looking for
a new idea to resolve something that's worrying or bothering you right now,
maybe your Tarot deck will provide you with a spark of inspiration.

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Process
In your personal journal, describe a problem you are trying to solve. Next,
look at your Tarot deck and choose a card at random. I would like to think
that this letter contains the answer to your problem. Use your imagination to
find it!

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Healing symbol
Aim
In this chapter we want to heal an old wound.

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Backgrou
nd
Sometimes, when something negative and painful happens to us, we end up
not being able to recover from the wounds it has caused us. Instead of solving
it, we ignore it. And our wounds rot over time. The pain may become a dull
ache. Just because we get used to wounds, doesn't mean they have healed and
resolved.
If you have been living with this type of pain, it is never too late to seek
healing. I think generally, on an intuitive level, we know what we need to
heal. For you, the key is to focus your attention on your wound, and then be
honest with yourself about what you know in your heart. This will lead you to
find the solution and peace.
Of course, the journey toward healing and wholeness can be challenging. This
is why it is important to have a symbol full of meaning that acts as your guide
and inspiration.

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Process
Think about how you have been hurt in the past, whether by a person or a
situation. This doesn't necessarily have to be trauma, but simply anything that
still carries a negative and painful charge for you.
Write in your journal a description of what happened and why your wound
was created. What does that wound look like? What do you feel?
Next, write about the consequences of having that injury. How has it affected
your life? Finally, consider what it would take to heal that wound and leave
those negative feelings behind. What is necessary to heal you? -whether from
yourself or the world around you-.
This exercise doesn't have to make you forget what happened. Scars are
powerful reminders of the past, meant to carry with ourselves what that event
meant. The key is to stop the bleeding and allow a scab to form.
Now look at your Tarot deck and choose a card that represents what you think
you need to heal your wound. In your personal journal, describe what made
you choose this card. What, in particular, makes your card "a symbol of
healing"? Next, write about how you will use their images and the message of
the letter to heal you. How will your presence provide relief? Finally, decide
how you are going to incorporate the letter into your life.

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Haiku Tarot
Aim
We are going to use Tarot cards as poetic inspiration.

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Background
Haiku is a type of traditional Japanese poetry that consists of three lines. The
first and last lines have five syllables and the middle line has seven syllables.
A haiku does not need to rhyme.
This is an example of haiku by the famous Japanese poet Basho (1644-1694):
It's Spring?
The nameless hill
got lost in the fog
And another example from Soseki (1865-1915):

On the flowery mountain
release the horses
in the autumn sky
Despite the restrictions due to its stylistic limitations, it is precisely this aspect
that makes haiku a fun creative challenge. Simple but profound, a haiku poem
can convey a large amount of information in a short space.
Here I show you an example that I created based on El Loco :
It's the moment
with a free heart
to the horizon

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Process
Randomly choose a card from your deck. Your goal is to write a haiku about
the card you have chosen. Study it. Observe what comes to your mind as you
perceive its details. What impression does it give you? What kind of energy
emanates from the letter? What thoughts does the letter provoke in you? How
does it make you feel? Use your response to the letter as the inspiration for
your haiku.

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Option
Create a haiku based on a card and then, in pairs or groups, have the rest of
the members try to guess which card you used as inspiration.

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The shield
Aim
Our goal is to find the card that represents your protective shield.

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Background
Process
Sometimes it helps to have someone as a cornerstone. In reality, it would be
best if that person, animal or thing were standing right next to us, protecting
us from threats. Whatever form it takes, our protector is willing to stand up
for us and stop blows aimed at us. Our protector believes in us and wants to
keep us safe, so he is willing to be our shield.
Your protective shield is similar to your defender, but there is an important
difference between the two. Your defender interacts with you: he defends you
and also comforts you. It is focused both internally and externally. However,
the role of your protective shield is simple: its only objective is to confront
threats, apart from you, in order to absorb and stop the blows that are directed
at you.

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Look at your Tarot cards and choose a card to be your protective shield. You
just have to follow your intuition; You will instinctively know when you find
it, that the card has the ability to protect you from negativity.
In your personal journal, fill in the following sentences:
1. I feel safe with this letter because:
2. This card has the ability to be my shield because:
3. I am going to use this letter to protect myself from:
4. I will use this card in my daily life as my shield and in this way:
Now decide what you are going to do with your letter. It is important that you
have it on hand for when you need it. Will you take her with you? Or will you
keep it in a special place in your house? If you wish, you can create an image
or collage that represents your shield, and incorporate your Tarot card into it.

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word
Process combination
Aim
Our goal in this chapter is to deepen the knowledge and understanding of the
Tarot deck.

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Background
Process
Whether you're just getting to know a Tarot card, or trying to delve deeper
with a card you've had for a while, looking for adjectives that define each card
is a quick and stimulating way to see how different cards affect you. It is also
a wonderful way to delve deeper into Tarot imagery.

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Examine each of the cards in your Tarot deck and choose the card that for you
is the most:
Poetics
Violent
Intense
Mysterious
Sad
Connected to the earth
Fierce
Cheerful
Scary
Powerful
Healing
attractive
Repulsive
Peaceful
You don't have to do the entire list at once. In fact, it's probably best to choose
only one or several adjectives each round.
Once you've chosen a card for each adjective, make some notes in your
journal about why you chose that specific card. What was it about the energy
of the letter and its images that made it the best example for the adjective that
defines it?

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poetry
Process time
Aim
We seek to use a letter as inspiration for the creation of a poem.

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Background
Process
There is something very freeing about allowing our words to simply spill out
onto the pages. With poetry, we can use the language of feelings and ideas,
without necessarily having to worry about using a particular structure. After
all, when we write a poem, we have the freedom to express ourselves in our
own unique style. In this way, writing poetry gives us the opportunity to
override our critical voice. When we write a poem, the notion of "good" or
"bad" disappears. Instead, what we create is simply perfect, as it is a reflection
of ourselves at that moment. Therefore, the act of creating a poem involves
giving ourselves permission to skim the surface of our consciousness or to
delve deeper into the center of our soul.

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Choose a card from your deck at random. Then, using the letter as inspiration,
create a poem. Let your mind wander and let your imagination free. You can
focus on a single detail in the letter. Or you can use the card as a starting point
and let its energy lead you somewhere unexpected. Follow the emotions and
ideas that the images in the card evoke. Feel free to express yourself as
creatively as you wish.
Example
Two of Swords
Frozen
tension in the shoulders
the weight of the decision paralyzes me
I am afraid to release this burden
but if I don't
how my strength fails
shortly after the decision will be made for me.

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Option
Process
I propose you create an alpha-poem based on the title of one of the major
arcana. An alpha-poem consists of choosing a word or several words, and
spelling them vertically down the page. Next, use those first letters as the
beginning of each line of your poem. This is a fun challenge that can really
stimulate your imagination. Pick a card at random and... go for it!
Example
The Fool
Time once again
Here you have given way to the dream of there
Enchanted by the thought of pilgrimage
Flowing like a river gently
Over the land its meanders
On feet steady with anticipation
Loving the idea of the journey I now take my first real step
Time once again

Here has given way to the dream there
Enchanted by the thought of pilgrimage
Flowing gently like a river
On the earth its meanders
On my feet firm with anticipation
Embracing the idea of the journey that now takes my first real step

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Before and after
Aim
Let's learn how to alleviate a problem.

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Background
Sometimes it's easy to feel trapped when dealing with a problem or doubt. It
may seem like we will never be free from what is troubling you. But suppose
you can access a future version of yourself which is free of this problem.
What would happen if you used your imagination to visualize yourself
without the problem? Any advice that person without the problem could give
you could be useful. After all, this person, somehow, found relief.

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Process
First, work with your Tarot deck and choose a card that represents your
problem. Once you've found it, take a moment to sit with it. Notice how you
feel, both physically and emotionally.
Now go through your deck again and choose a card that represents the
problem solved. You'll surely know what the card is when you see it! Once
you have found it, spend some time contemplating it. Use this card as a
symbol to imagine how you will feel, physically and emotionally, once you
have found the solution to your problem. Get a deep, detailed sense of what it
would be like to live with your problem solved.
Your next step is to place these two cards next to each other. When you're
ready, take out your journal. Your goal is to take on the role of each card, and
create a written dialogue between the two (using a different colored pen for
each card). The topic of conversation is based on how the current problem
ended up being resolved. Let's start by having the first card ask the second
card how they finally found the solution. What happened? What have you
done? How did you do it?
Then, assuming the role of the second card, respond as best as possible. Allow
both your common sense and your intuition to guide your responses. You
have to put yourself in the shoes of your “future self” and you have to take
into account the obstacles that you had to face and overcome on the way to
solving the problem and obtaining the solution. What resources (both indoor
and outdoor) did you have to use in order to overcome these obstacles? What
skills have you had to develop that helped you finish the process?
You already have a card that shows you the route to find relief. Also, with the
second card you chose, you have a little inspiration that you can incorporate
into your life now . Whether you carry it with you during the day, put it on
your dresser, stick it to your mirror, or place it under your pillow at night, you
can contact that future version of yourself whenever you need to.
The gift (part I)
The meaning of life is to find your gift; The purpose of life is to give it to
you.
A stranger

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Aim
We seek to put you in touch with what makes you special, with your gift.

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Background
Each one of us is a unique human being. Each of us has something that makes
us special. Each of us has the ability to influence other people's lives for the
better. However, are we aware of our natural talents? Have we learned to
connect with the gifts we were born with? How have the people around us
nurtured or suppressed those parts of ourselves?
Perhaps the most important question is: what stands in the way of us
recognizing and using our most special gifts?
In this activity you are going to spend some time thinking about those gifts or
blessings that only you have and that you are able to share with others. How
has the world improved just because you are in it?
It is important to remember that comparing our gifts with those of others is
worthless. It is not the magnitude of our uniqueness or our talent that makes
the difference. Rather, it is what we do with what we have that takes us down
a path full of meaning and fulfillment.
Keep these two quotes in mind:
Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a

listening ear, an honest compliment or the smallest act of caring – all of
which have the potential to change a life.
Leo Buscaglia
I am but one, but I am one. I can't do everything, but I can do something. And
I'm not going to let what I can't do interfere with what I can do.
Edward Everett Hale
But are you sure what your gift is? Thinking about the answers to these
questions will help you:
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

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When do you feel (or have you felt in the past) most alive?
When do you feel most satisfied? •
In what areas of your life are you most effective?
When have other people given you a positive opinion about something you
have done or said?
Is there something you can do effortlessly while other people find it difficult
to do the same thing?
You can also discover your gift by asking people close to you (family,
friends, co-workers) about it. Generally, they perceive qualities in you that
you do not give importance to, or that you are simply not aware of. In this
case, it can be enlightening to find out what positive things others see in you.

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Process
Once you have an idea of what your gift is, please take some time to answer
the following questions in your personal journal:
What is my gift? •
What is the impact of my gift on strangers?
What is the impact of my gift on the people closest to me?
In what sense is my gift a blessing in my life?
In what sense is my gift a burden in my life?
How have I denied or repudiated my gift in the past?
How am I denying my gift today?
How have I cultivated and honored my gift in the past?
How am I cultivating and honoring my gift in the present?
How am I using my gift to be in balance with my deepest values?
How can I use my gift to achieve a future goal?
The final part of this activity, but perhaps the most important, is based on
using the Tarot cards again. Please search through your deck and choose the
card that you feel best represents your gift. The card you choose can contain
the gift itself, or show both, to you along with your gift. As something
symbolic, but at the same time tangible, this card can play a very important
role in your life, because it is a reminder of what makes you special.
So what to do with this letter? Let your intuition guide you. However, here
are some ideas:
• Incorporate it into a personal sanctuary.
• Stick it to your mirror.
• Carry it with you in a pocket or bag.
• Put it under your pillow when you sleep.
• Include it as part of a piece of art or a collage.
Take it in your car.

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The gift (part II)
Aim
We are going to receive something special from one of the Tarot cards.

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Background
In this activity we are going to work with the major arcana. Each of the cards
in this group is a powerful archetype that has great wisdom to share. Because
of their timelessness and depth, these cards have the power to offer you
something that could make a significant difference in your life.

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Process
Separate the major arcana from the rest of the cards. When you're ready,
choose a Major Arcana card at random. Spend some time with the card,
knowing that it has a gift that you would like to have. Don't think too much
about it; Just let your feelings and thoughts come to the surface. Remember,
the card comes to you with a gift that is for your benefit and is the right card
for you.
When you have achieved a sense of serenity, write in your journal:
• What does the gift consist of?
• Why have you received it at this time.
• What will you do with it.

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Option 1
Instead of choosing a single card, you can go through all the major arcana, as
each one has a gift to offer.

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Option 2
You could use the entire Tarot deck (both major and minor arcana), and
choose a card at random, which in turn brings a gift.

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The gift (part III)
Aim
The goal of this section is to take into account your own needs and desires.

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Background
You certainly deserve a gift, right? And who better to choose that gift than
you! After all, you know your needs better than anyone. This exercise differs
from the previous one because this time a random card will not be chosen.
Instead, deliberately search through the deck until you find the one you want.

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Process
The gift you deserve, the one that is especially for you, is found within your
deck of Tarot cards. Please slowly go through the deck, until you find the card
that you intuitively know is your gift. In your personal journal, write exactly
why you chose the card and describe the gift it has for you. Finally, explain in
your journal what you are going to do with your new gift.

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The Three Gifts
Aim
The goal of this chapter is to take stock of your life.

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Background
According to Hindu philosophy, there are three processes that are continually
at work in the world: creation, preservation and destruction. And because it is
part of an endless cycle, it is perhaps more accurate to view "destruction" as
"transformation," since the third stage is always followed by some kind of
new creation or rebirth.
In this activity, you will connect the idea of universal change to the wisdom
of the Tarot in order to obtain important information about your life.

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Process
In this activity we are going to work only with the major arcana. At random,
choose a card from the Major Arcana. The chosen card brings you three gifts:
The first gift will help you create something that will be beneficial to your
life.
The second gift will help you protect something of value in your life.
The third gift will allow you to change something in your life that is not
currently benefiting you or helping your interests.
In your personal journal, please write the name of the card you have chosen
and describe in detail each of its three gifts to you.

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The confidant
Aim
The goal of this chapter is to experience the relief of sharing a secret.

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Background
Secrets are part of life. However, it can be stressful and draining to have to
retain information (other than personal) that is sensitive or embarrassing. In
fact, the emotional burden of carrying a secret can sometimes be a real burden
and can affect a person's energy levels.
A 2012 study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology General
showed that people who spend a lot of time keeping and mulling over a secret
tend to experience greater difficulty in their physical activities, and find these
activities more exhausting than people who don't tell. with deep secrets. The
researchers' conclusion was that keeping a secret and carrying it manifests
itself externally in the person as the physical sensation of being oppressed.
So, wouldn't it be nice to have your own personal confidant? This is someone
or something with whom you can share your secrets or problems, knowing
that your privacy will be respected.

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Process
In your personal journal, describe the qualities of a good confidant. When you
are ready, run your hand over each of the Tarot cards and choose the card that
for you represents something or someone that makes you feel safe and
protected. Choose your "ideal confidant" who intuitively knows that his
gentle, compassionate energy makes you feel comfortable and share your
secret with him.
Now, think of all the possible ways you can lean on your new confidant and
talk to him to help you feel better about some secret you've been carrying
around. For example, you can paste that letter on the first page of your
personal journal. Or take it with you when you walk alone and sit somewhere
where you find privacy; then, holding it in your hand, you can talk about your
secrets with him. Or you could tell the letter an important secret and then bury
it. Symbolically it would represent the release of that burden. The key is to
ask yourself what you need to find peace from what is weighing you down,
and then use your imagination to see how this card can be helpful.

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The goal!
Aim
We want to learn the art and science of achieving goals.

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Background
Why do our New Year's resolutions fail so often? What happens when we set
goals that makes it so difficult to achieve them? Why is it so easy to sabotage
ourselves when it comes to pursuing our dreams?
Maybe we have to start by establishing a goal that really connects with our
deepest essence. By examining our motivation to achieve a goal, we can ask
ourselves if it is really what we truly desire. After all, if we are pursuing a
goal for the wrong reasons, then we have to force ourselves to do something
that a part of us really doesn't want to do. And when we fight against
ourselves… we always lose!
By answering the following questions in your journal, you will be able to
discover and set a goal that is in line with your values. While it is true that
consciously answering these questions will take you some time, the effort of
introspection work at this stage will help you achieve what you really want.
But first, how to decide exactly which lens you are going to choose? I propose
a series of questions that will help you:
What changes do you want to experience in your life? Because?
In order to make those changes:
• What needs to be let go?
• What are you willing to accept?
• What are you willing to do?
What is the goal that you are going to choose and that is going to mark a
positive change in your life?
Are you clear about your motivations for wanting to achieve this goal?
Finish completing this sentence:
"I want to [insert your goal or objective] so that..." and when you complete
this sentence, keep adding "so that..." as many times as necessary until you
get to the core and center of your true motivations.
Now that I know what truly motivates me, is there another way to satisfy my
motivations other than the goal I have set for myself?
Should I reevaluate my initial goal?

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Am I clear about my objective? Is it something specific? Can I measure or
quantify it in some way? Is it something feasible and realistic that I can
achieve within a certain period of time?
List the most important advantages of achieving your goal.
Is there something really useful that you can repeat to yourself as you work
and strive towards your goal?
Does working on achieving your goal give you energy? Does it make you feel
alive?
Are there people who have already achieved that same goal and who serve as
a reference for you?
What are you willing to sacrifice to achieve your goal?
Please complete this sentence: "In order to achieve my goal, I would have
to..."
Are there people who could be threatened if you reach your goal? Because?
How can you be prepared to deal with them?
Can you really visualize yourself reaching your goal?
Is the goal realistic considering your current life situation?
How can you organize and structure your environment to successfully achieve
your goal?
What could prevent you from achieving your goal?
What scares you?
What do you think needs to happen before you reach your goal?
What are the barriers to achieving your goal?
What responsibilities do you have to assume to achieve your goal?
Please complete the following sentence: "The problem in achieving my goal
is..."
What do you gain if you don't achieve your goal?
What can you do today to start working towards your goal?
What can you do tomorrow?

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What can you do this week?
What can you do this month?
Who can you talk to about your goal? Both to have support and to comment
on the progress and successes you are achieving on your way to the final goal,
it is very positive to have a reference person to talk to about it.

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Process
Now is the time to slowly and deliberately choose four cards from your Tarot
deck. The first represents your goal. In the second card are the difficulties that
currently, or in the future, will prevent you from reaching your goal. Next,
choose a third card that represents what will allow you to overcome and
remove those obstacles. Finally, find a fourth card where the images and
energy show you that you have achieved your goal.
Now, what are we going to do with these four cards? These are some of the
options (but remember, the only limit is your imagination and intuition):
1. Make a collage in which you incorporate the four cards.
2. Choose one of the four cards and make it the center point of a work of
art.
3. Frame the first and/or fourth card. Put the painting in a special place,
either at home or at your workplace. You can also make a mini
sanctuary by surrounding the frame with small objects that are
meaningful to you.
4. Put the first and fourth cards on your bathroom mirror or refrigerator
with a magnet.
5. Glue one or more of your chosen cards to the inside of your journal, in
the part where you are writing about your goal.
6. Put the first or fourth card under your pillow and keep it there until you
have reached your goal.

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message from above
Aim
In this chapter, the goal is to write a letter to yourself from the perspective of
Your Higher Power.

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Background
Having a connection with something that represents Your Higher Power will
provide you with immense support and a sense of comfort in your life. This
idea is based on the fact that there is a force or being greater than yourself in
the universe. As they say in Alcoholics Anonymous: the "Higher Power" is
the "God of your understanding." But it can also be any type of powerful
energy that you feel exists on a higher level. The most important thing about
Your Higher Power is that when you ask it about something, it will provide
you with the resources or answers to help you (often in the most unexpected
ways).
This exercise is based on the fact that, intuitively, you (or your subconscious)
know exactly what you need to feel cared for and protected by Your Higher
Power.

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Process
In this activity, your goal is to write a letter to yourself, which comes directly
from Your Higher Power. When you're ready, take a moment to settle into the
idea that your subconscious knows exactly what needs to be written and how
to express it.
But please keep in mind that in this letter, whatever you are going to write, at
the very least, Your Higher Power will do the following:
• Communicate the love, affection and compassion he feels for you.
• Offer you their unconditional support.
• Remind you of your core values and your purpose in life.
• Recognize the efforts you are making in your life.
• Reaffirm your authentic “I”.
• Give you advice about what worries you or torments you right now.
• Answer questions you may have about something.
Additionally, you should know that Your Higher Power has seen fit to include
a Tarot card just for you in the envelope. What this card represents is a very
important visual message for you.
With this in mind, slowly begin your way through your Tarot deck. When you
have found that special card, separate it and put it aside.
Now take an envelope and a stamp and address the letter to yourself. Lastly,
give this letter to someone close to you and ask them to mail it to you within a
week.

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Create poetry by mixing and matching
Aim
We are going to create a poem combining images and text.

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Background
Words can be powerful and healing. Expressing ourselves through poetry can
be fun and satisfying. The creative challenge of choosing meaningful words
to create metaphors, images, moods, rhythms and emotions forces us to put
our imagination to work.
If we tap into our creativity to write poetry, this can give us a sense of
cathartic freedom. It can also lead us to self-awareness and to have a more
curative and healing vision.
By experimenting with the communication of feelings and ideas through
verse we expand our comfort zone. This lets us know that we are capable of
more than we previously thought, therefore our self-esteem is strengthened.
Writing your own poetry can be very liberating, as you have the option to use
the structure and sounds of language concretely or abstractly, however you
wish.
But sometimes, it can be difficult to find the words to create a poem. In this
activity, you will use the rich imaginative variety of Tarot cards to help you
compose your poem.

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Process
Pick ten cards at random. Next, take some quiet time with each of them. Write
down what comes to mind as you look at what the card represents. Then,
when you feel inspired, write a single line of text for each letter. Next,
organize the Tarot cards and the text you have written into a poem that
connects with you. How to place the cards is up to you. Consider the impact
of images, as well as text. You can line up the cards in a long row or any
other way that makes sense to you. So… have fun and experiment!
And when you're done with your first poem,... you can change the cards to
create another new piece of unique poetry!

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Royal advice
Aim
In this section we are going to obtain sixteen different points of view about a
problem.

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Background
As you know, the Tarot deck is divided into the major and minor arcana. In
turn, the minor arcana are divided into four suits: wands, cups, swords and
gold. These suits illustrate different aspects of life. In addition, each suit
contains the "court cards" or “royal cards”, a page jack, knights, queens and
kings. You will have noticed that each court card has its own personality and
its own energy.
Now, what if we imagine that each court card also has its own voice? What
would happen if we allowed these knights and kings to send us a personal
message? What if we assume that there is profound wisdom to be found
within this group of cards?
It makes sense, then, that having access to all of these perspectives and points
of view can be beneficial when seeking advice or help for certain issues. After
all, chances are that at least one of the court's letters will have a perspective
on the issue that we, ourselves, have not yet considered.

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Process
First of all, look for a quiet and peaceful place with an atmosphere where no
one will bother you and you feel completely comfortable and relaxed. Next,
separate all the royal cards from your Tarot. Line them up and have your
personal journal at hand.
To start, write in your journal the question you need help with. Next, think
about whether there is something that can give you greater clarity, or if you
have pushed your ingenuity to the limit to solve the problem. Take your time
to ask the royal cards for help and advice, because each one of them has a
specific message for you.
It doesn't matter which card you start with, just pick one. Little by little and
carefully, look at the card you have chosen. Verbally, either out loud or in
your head, ask him for advice. Next, write your response in your personal
journal. Thank him and move on to the next letter.
When you are done with all sixteen cards, take a break, as long as you need.
When you recover and feel ready, please return to your journal. Now is the
time to look for the solution among the answers you have before you. See
which one or which connect with you the most, comfort you and make you
feel good. Finally, you are in a position to write in your journal how you cope
with this problem or situation, now that you have gone through the
experience.

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The shortest story
Aim
Using a Tarot card as a source of inspiration, we will create a short story
consisting of six words.

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Background
According to legend, there was a novelist who once challenged Ernest
Hemingway to write a short story using only six words.
What was your literal response?
“ For sale: Baby shoes, never worn .”
(For sale: baby shoes, never worn.)
So what can be considered a "short story" for this activity? How is it different
from a poem or a vignette? Let's take into account the typical elements of any
story: the protagonist, conflicts, challenges and resolution. Of course, due to
its brevity, we will leave out all the details, which can only be hinted at.
Therefore, creating such a short piece with a beginning, middle and end
(either implicitly or explicitly) will be the real challenge.

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Process
Choose a card from your Tarot, either randomly or intentionally. Next, using
the letter as a starting point for your writing, use six words to tell your story.
Examples
The card: Strength
The story: "My fears? "Better than expected."
The card: Ten of Cups
The story: "Behind the smile, a monster.”

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Option 1
Choose a card that sparks your inspiration and create a short story of exactly
50 words.

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Option 2
Choose a card that sparks your inspiration and create a short story of no more
than 350 words.

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Personal correspondence
Aim
The objective of this section is to think about what is really important in life.

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Background
Writing a letter to our younger “Self” is an exercise that allows us to see
things in perspective and have the knowledge acquired over time.
Paradoxically, reflecting on what we would have liked to have known when
we were young can help us make important decisions at the current moment
in our lives.
Of course, it would have been great to have had that card from our future
"Self" when we were young, but since that was not the case, we can recreate
the experience by imagining ourselves, much older, in the calm and wisdom
of our maturity or old age, writing a letter to our current “I”.
Another powerful perspective is, when our inner child has the opportunity to
send a message to our current “I”. Often, as we saw earlier in this book, that
aspect of ourselves, our inner child, is still struggling with unmet needs. By
allowing the opportunity for communication between the two, our current
“Self” can learn how to better care for and protect the inner child.
Furthermore, if we listen carefully, our inner child will most likely have
important information that our current “I” would do well to consider.

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Process
You are going to write three letters. The first is written by your current “I” to
your old “I” when you were thirteen years old. Take as much time as you
need to remember what you were doing at that moment in your life. Maybe it
will help you to find a photograph of yourself from back then. What advice or
recommendations would you give them? What would you like to tell him to
pay more attention to or spend more time on? Write what comes out of you
intuitively. This is not something you have to share with anyone else.
Once you're done with your card, take a moment and grab your Tarot deck.
Little by little he runs his hand over it. Choose a card from the deck that you
will attach to your written letter because you feel it will be useful to your
younger “Self.” Explain in a postscript in your card why you chose that Tarot
card.
To write your second letter, please imagine that you are twenty years older
than you are today. Now, you are going to write a letter from that person
twenty years older than your current “I”. Using your imagination to consider
what your older, more mature, more experienced “Self” wants to share with
you. Think about what your point of view could be on many of the things that
worry you now and think also, what would be helpful to learn for your current
“I”.
Once again, when you have finished writing your card, choose the Tarot card
that your mature future “Self” has decided to include in the card you have
written. Explain in a postscript why you selected that particular Tarot card
and are sending it to them.
For your third letter, you are going to take the perspective of your “Self”
when you were eight years old. I would like you to write this letter with a
colored pencil, using your non-dominant hand. If you intuitively know that
trying to access this part of yourself is going to be too painful or traumatic,
then please refrain from this part of the exercise, or if you are determined to
do it, do it under the supervision of a mental health professional. If you end
up writing this card, you will have the perspective of your eight-year-old
“Self,” and like the previous two cards, you will include a Tarot card in it.
You do not have to explain in your letter why you have chosen it, but if you
If you feel capable, please try.
Now that you are done with the letters, return once again to your Tarot deck.
As you look through the cards, think about your current life and what you
want to do with it. Based on the experience of having written these three
cards, choose a Tarot card that could serve as a guide for you today. Once you
have chosen it, please explain in your personal journal the reasons why you
have done so.

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Boundaries or personal limits
Aim
Our goal in this chapter is to identify your personal boundaries or limits and
understand why it is important to know them well.

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Backgrou
ndgeneral, “boundary” refers to the dividing line that marks the borders of an
In
area. But there are other dimensions of this word, such as the "boundaries"
that mark the place where one person's space ends and another's begins. In a
physical sense, a healthy boundary is the space around yourself that provides
you with a feeling of safety and security. Psychologically, personal
boundaries are the rules, guidelines, and boundaries that each of us establishes
to protect ourselves from being manipulated or exploited by others. These
boundaries provide us with a sense of the types of behavior we will or will not
tolerate from other people. And these limits that you have, in turn, will
determine the way in which you will respond to others when they exceed
them.
Strong, stable, and well-defined boundaries enable you to deliberately choose
what you will and will not allow in your personal space. These standards are
important because they give you a clear idea of who you are, and they
reinforce the fact that you are an individual independent of everyone else.
Through our actions and behavior, we communicate to others what our limits
are, and whether they are strong or weak. The ideal is for others to respect our
limits, as long as we have been able to clearly communicate where they are
located.
You may be wondering at this moment how each of us has created or defined
our personal boundaries or boundaries. They are usually established early in
our lives. Boundaries develop from a mix of personal experiences and social
conditioning, which lead to the formation of beliefs about ourselves and our
place in the world.
Sometimes in our childhood we are raised by people (our parents or our
caregivers) who do not respect our boundaries. Continuous violations of
personal integrity (such as abuse or neglect) lead to blurred or weak
boundaries from our childhood. This leads to an unstable or diminished sense
of identity because we have “learned” to believe ******ebook converter
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that our needs are not important enough to be taken into account. We have
difficulty expressing our feelings because we are living in an environment
where they are not respected. Weak boundaries make it difficult to stand on
our own two feet as adults, and often these adults become people-pleasers or
develop codependent relationships with other people.
On the other hand, sometimes it is necessary to build high walls around us to
protect ourselves. If as children we felt that we had to protect ourselves from
abuse at all costs, then we may have developed a defense system that was
tight and safe and that still continues in our lives as adults. A person with
rigid boundaries isolates himself from other people, both physically and
emotionally. This type of psychic defense allows us not to get involved with
others because we are afraid that they will hurt us, but it can also lead to
isolation (both from ourselves and from others).
The ideal situation is, that in our childhood, we would have been able to
develop flexible boundaries, which we can soften or tighten as necessary,
depending on each situation. This is the ideal and healthiest option when we
talk about personal boundaries, because it means that we have a strong
identity: we know what we are and we believe that others should treat us with
respect. We are also familiar with our borders and have no difficulty saying
"no" when necessary.
To reflect on your own limits, answer the following questions in your
personal journal:
• Do you ever ignore your own values or beliefs in order to please
others?
• Do you allow other people to define who you are?
• Do you depend on others to satisfy your needs?
• Do you feel guilty when you say "No" to another person?
• Do you feel bad about speaking out when you are treated badly or
unfairly or you disagree with someone?
The limits are related to our needs and the fact of knowing how to solve them
for ourselves. Tellingly, the word "necessity," which comes from the West
Saxon noun nied , means "compulsion, duty." It is also related to the Czech
word nyti which means "to languish." A need, whether physical or emotional,
is something that needs to be satisfied for a person's well-being. When a need
is met, we feel healthy and satisfied. Unmet needs leave us feeling bad,

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frustrated and resentful, which is not good for our health.
As human beings, we all share the vital needs of air, water and food.
However, regarding emotional needs, sometimes we perceive them in a
stronger way and other times, they go unnoticed since each person is unique.
However, to varying degrees, most of us have the need to feel:
• Safe and secure.
• Connected with others.
• Accepted.
• With things under control.
• Beloved.
• With a life full of meaning and meaning.
As I mentioned above, our boundaries, in general, were originally created in
response to needs that were not met when we were children. Because they
were not addressed, these needs continue to be present throughout our lives.
To become more aware of your own needs as an adult, please work through
these questions in your personal journal:
• What did you need as a child from your parents and/or caregivers that
you didn't receive?
• Create a fantasy in which you had the perfect upbringing from your
parents. What did they give you? What did they tell you?
• Can you accept that you have needs without feeling selfish? If not, what
is preventing you from doing so? Who did you learn it from?
Think about the following statements and if you are able to assimilate and
develop them like a child:
• I have the right to my own opinions.
• I have the right to feel safe.
• I have the right to be myself.
• I have the right to ask for what I need.
• I have the right to make mistakes.
• I have the right to be worthy of love.
If today you could create your own “bill of rights,” what would it consist of?
Let's see if you can start this list in your personal journal.

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Process
Grab your Tarot deck and look for the following:
• A card that for you represents a person with blurry or weak limits.
• A letter that for you is an example of a person with rigid limits.
In your personal journal, please list the advantages, if you think there are any,
of having weak boundaries. Below, list the disadvantages. Then do the same
for the hard limits.
Finally, look at your Tarot deck one more time, and see if you can find a card
that represents a person with healthy, flexible boundaries. What is in this
letter that connects with you?
You should now have three cards; Please take an extra moment to study each
of them before returning them to your deck.
It is time to reflect on the current state of your own limits. Are they weak,
rigid or flexible? Run your hand through your Tarot deck and choose a card
that represents your current self in terms of your limits. This card does not
necessarily have to contain the image of a person. Any image is fine, as long
as you feel like you have a connection with it.
Perhaps the card you have chosen shows limits that are not ideal for you. If
that is the case, please go through the deck and choose a Tarot card whose
energy can assist you in creating and maintaining healthy boundaries. Then,
once you've done this, go through your Tarot deck again and choose a card
that represents a version of your future self that has boundaries that make you
feel good.
Your final task is to decide what to do with the cards you have chosen. Let
your intuition guide you about how to use the cards you have chosen to
remind you of the importance of having strong, but flexible boundaries.

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Mail in the mailbox
Aim
In this section our goal is to get something you need.

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Background
Regardless of what is going on with our lives, there is usually something we
are ignoring, knowing deep in our hearts, that we need to pay attention to it.
This exercise connects with our intuitive side, in such a way that we can
discover what it is that we are missing.

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Process
Take a postal envelope and write your postal address. This pack will contain a
single Tarot card that is intended specifically for you. Therefore, what letter
will it be? Little by little go through your Tarot deck until you find the card
that has to go inside this envelope. Once you have found it, put it in the
envelope and put a stamp on it.
Now, breathe deeply. Place the envelope in front of you. Imagine that when
you opened the mailbox today, this letter was there. Hmm interesting. Who
could have sent you this letter? It doesn't matter. The fact is that it is there, in
front of you.
When you're ready, open the envelope. Note that it only contains one Tarot
card. As you carefully study the card, pay attention to what you are feeling.
The only mission of this letter is to communicate a message that is addressed
only to you; which may be?
Now, take your personal journal. Write down why you think this letter was
mailed to you. What a special meaning it has that, unlike the other 77 cards, it
was chosen just for you. What is the message he is trying to communicate to
you?

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Option
Put a stamp on the envelope and send the letter to yourself. You can then do
the same work in your personal journal when you receive it.

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Life lessons
Aim
The goal of this chapter is to consider the seven most important lessons you
have learned in your life.

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Background
All of us learn, often the hard way, life lessons. In fact, trial and error can be
the most effective teachers.
Please read this poem by Maya Angelou:
I have learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life
moves on, and it will be better tomorrow.
I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way they handle
these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and being tangled in the
Christmas tree lights.
I have learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you are
going to miss them when they are gone from your life.
I have learned that making a living is not the same as making a life.
I have learned that sometimes life gives you a second chance.
I have learned that one should not go through life with a baseball glove on
both hands; we need to be able to throw something back.
I have learned that when I decide something with an open heart, I have
usually made the right decision.
I have learned that even when I feel pain, it doesn't always have to be just me.
I have learned that every day we must reach out and touch someone. People
love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back, because making others
suffer, what do we gain from that. Justifying our survival by constantly
causing harm can never bring happiness. Or perhaps he who has had to kill
his attacker to continue living is completely happy. Happy is he who risked
his life for someone and knew how to reach out at the right time.
I've learned that I still have much to learn.
I've learned that people forget what you said, and people forget what you did,
but people never forget how you made them feel.

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Process
In your personal journal, please write down seven of the most important
lessons you have learned in your life. Which are? How did you learn them?
Because they are important?
Next, slowly go through your Tarot deck and choose a card that represents
each of them.

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Life is…
Aim
Our goal in this section is to explore the meaning of life through metaphor
and simile.

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Background
A metaphor or simile is a figure of speech with which two apparently
different things are compared, but in reality, they have something in common.
"The exam was a gift” (the exam was so easy that it was as if they gave you
the grade).
When comparing two things, a simile uses the adverbs “as” or “so” to
introduce the comparison. “He slept as peacefully as a baby.”
This activity is based on life and the way we conceptualize. Certainly, the
experiences we have in life influence the way we see the world around us.
One way to give meaning to life is to describe it using metaphor and simile.
For example, some people see life as a party or a dance. Others see it as a
battle or a fight. Finally, others believe that life is like a journey or even a
child's play.
Consider the following quotes:

Life is a big canvas on which you have to throw all the paint you can.
Danny Kaye
Life is the art of drawing without an eraser.

John Gardner
Life is either a daring adventure or it is nothing.

Helen Keller
I have learned that life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer we get to the
end, the faster it goes.
Andy Rooney

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Life is like a coin. You can spend it wherever you want, but you can only
spend it once.
Lillian Dickson
Life is like a box of chocolates... You never know what you're going to get.
Forrest Gump's mother
How do you see life? What is it like for you? What could be your metaphor or
simile for life?
Please complete the following sentences in your journal:
1. Life is.........
2. The life is like......
3. When I was a child, my life was...
4. When I was a kid, my life was like...
5. Currently, my life is like… because
6. Currently, my life is like a… because
7. In the future, I would like my life to be like…

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Process
What do you think about your answers? They are useful? Does any surprise
you? Are there even more metaphors or similes you could consider?
Then shuffle your Tarot cards and please choose a card for each of the seven
phrases in your journal.

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The bridge
Aim
Our goal is to find a Tarot card that can instantly bring you back to the
present when your mind starts to wander into the past or worry about the
future.

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Background
Sometimes it's easy to get distracted and lose track of being in the present.
We can dwell on the past, remembering old stories over and over again. Or
we may find ourselves caught up in worries about the future, feelings of
unease about what we think might happen to us or our loved ones. For all this,
it is useful to have a tool that quickly brings us back to the present. This tool
allows us to have our feet on the ground, in the current, real moment.
Therefore, it will prevent us from getting lost in the wanderings of our mind.

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Process
Run your hand through your Tarot deck and choose a card that will remind
you to stay focused on what you are doing in the present moment. The images
in this card have to capture your attention instantly, taking your mind away
from the past or the future. Once you've found it, write down in your journal
exactly what it is about this card that makes it an effective anchor for you.
What does it symbolize for you? How are you going to ask him to remember
the importance of staying connected to what is happening around you at that
moment? Actually, once you start using it, you don't necessarily have to look
at your card. So ask yourself (and then answer in your journal), what will the
act of simply touching this card bringing me back to the place where I need to
be?
Keep this letter with you at all times, whether in your pocket, purse, or bag.
Since you have Tarot cards of different sizes to choose from, think about what
size card will be most convenient or which one you feel most comfortable
with in your hand.
Whenever you notice that you are drifting in the past or future, far from where
you currently should be, remember that you have the ability to remain
grounded in the present. Take out your letter. Pay attention to what you feel,
how you hold it with your fingers, in your hand. Observe its texture, its
softness, its edges, its temperature. Those physical sensations and their image
will provide you with healthy focus and the powerful feeling of being
grounded in the present.

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Arts and crafts

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Through art we can experience emotions and, at the same time, express them.
The act of creating art is an act loaded with symbolism and at the same time,
it is a therapeutic activity in itself. Therefore, the journey of creating
something from nothing is also sacred and is as important as the end result.
Instinct and feelings will inspire and guide you through your creative process.
This is not about being an "artist" or comparing yourself to other people.
There is no "right" or "wrong" way to do these activities that I am going to
propose. After all, each of us is unique people. When you finally arrive at
your destination, you will have a representation of something meaningful and
personal, a snapshot of yourself for a brief moment of time, expressed through
your work of art.
Before you begin any of these artistic activities and projects, please make sure
you do everything necessary to create an environment conducive to the
creative process. Remember, as I already mentioned in the introduction to this
book, that ritualizing the process will help you deepen the experience.
When you've finished a piece of art, think about giving it a title and a date.
This will allow you to take time to quietly reflect on what you have created.
By considering what you have accomplished, you will learn a lot about
yourself and your subconscious world. You will see what you have been able
to manifest by opening your mind and putting aside your prejudices. What
will your works of art tell you? What will they try to communicate to you?
What words will come to mind? What feelings will emerge?
If you work with a group, you can have members talk about the creative
process behind what they made, what it represents, and what they are
experiencing when they see the finished work. Or you may prefer that group
participants keep those feelings and thoughts to themselves.
As a group leader, it is important to foster a sense of security and creative
freedom for members. The last thing we want to do as mental health
professionals, whether we are leading a work group or working individually
with a patient, is interpret or judge that person's artwork and creativity. In my
opinion, to help a patient, it is much better to focus on what their artistic

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creation means to them, or what they wanted to express, than to focus on what
that work of art means to us as professionals in the mental health field.

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expressive art

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Aim
We are going to use Tarot cards as a source of inspiration for creating a work
of art.

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Background
Working with your hands and with different art materials is fun and healing at
the same time. Whether with clay, making a collage, drawing, painting,
sculpture... using your imagination in the process of artistic creation is a
powerful experience. We all have the innate ability and desire to create
something from nothing. Above all, because in our childhood, we were all
connected to our creativity naturally. Unfortunately, as we get older, that
creative part loses importance in our lives. But that creative impulse is always
there, waiting to be expressed.

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Process
First, choose an artistic medium to work with. There are so many options!
You can use paints, colored pencils, charcoal, clay, paper mache, collage,
needle and thread... They are all materials that are fun to work with. That
way, you will have no limits when it comes to creating a work of art. The key
is finding the right materials for the artwork you have in mind.
Now, either after careful deliberation or simply at random, choose a card from
your Tarot deck. Take some time to study the letter. Write down the feelings
that arise when you look at her. Is there any particular aspect of the letter that
especially connects with you?
Using the chart as a guide, consider how you want to express yourself
artistically. Give yourself permission to follow your intuition when making
your decisions. You can create a work of art based directly on the images on
the card, or you can use the card as a starting point and let it lead you freely
down unexpected paths.

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Totem
Aim
In this activity we are going to create a vertical piece of art that contains a
symbolic message.

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Background
Totem poles originate from the indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest.
They are sculptures carved on tall trees. The sculptures are made up of
segments that represent people and/or animals and are carved one on top of
the other, so that the viewer's eye makes a vertical movement to observe
them. In some tribes, images are read from top to bottom, while in others,
totem images are read from bottom to top.
Totems, traditionally, were used for various purposes. Some represent family
stories. Others tell stories about the tribe or described myths and legends.
Sometimes a totem contained carvings of specific animals or spirits associated
with a family or tribe. Images on a totem pole can also be used to show the
rank or status of a family.
As you can see, what all of these purposes have in common is communicating
an important message through symbolic images. Whether for oneself or to
communicate something to others, a totem is a powerful tool for externalizing
ideas and messages.

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Process
In this activity, you will place the Tarot cards in a vertical line in order to
illustrate the message of your totem. You can read the cards from top to
bottom or bottom to top, as you prefer.
First, consider what or who you would like your totem to represent. Anything
is possible, but here are some ideas:
A story or experience that is or has been important to you.
An event or person you would like to commemorate.
Something or someone you would like to honor.
A representation of your spirit guides.
Something that symbolizes your family.
A memory of the past.
Something you would like to achieve in the future.
Once you've decided on a theme, your job is to travel through your Tarot deck
and choose the cards that you feel clearly communicate what you would like
to express with your totem. There is no right or wrong way to do this; you can
use as few as two cards or as many as you want... that's really up to you! The
key is to think vertically and decide how to sequentially arrange your cards so
that the arrangement makes sense to you.
Next, decide whether you want your totem to be a two-dimensional or three-
dimensional expression.
To create a two-dimensional piece, you can use paper, cardstock, or cardboard
as a surface on which to line up your Tarot cards. You can attach them to this
surface using glue or tape.
One option to consider is creating a rectangular piece, highlighting the cards
themselves. On the other hand, if you have extra space on the sides, you can
decorate it with paint, drawings and/or a collage. Additionally, you can glue
small objects around the cards, creating a mixed materials feel.
To create a three-dimensional piece of art that approximates the circular shape
of a traditional totem pole, you can use the following materials as segments

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for the base:
• Cardboard tubes (from kitchen paper or toilet paper).
• Empty cans.
• 2 liter plastic bottles (cutting off the top funnel).
For a rectangular shaped totem pole, you can use shoe boxes, milk cartons, or
any rectangular cardboard box.
You can increase the height of your totem pole by attaching the segments, one
on top of the other, using glue or tape. You now have a three-dimensional
surface on which to place your Tarot cards! This is where the different sizes
of the Waite-Smith deck are going to be very useful. Being available in mini,
small, medium and large sizes, you have the possibility of finding the cards
that best fit the size of the totem you have decided to use.
Once you've glued your cards on, you can decorate the rest of your totem pole
however you like, using anything from paints, sequins, feathers... anything
that comes to your imagination.
When you're done with your totem, it's time to decide where to place it. Is
there a particular corner in your room or elsewhere in your house that is a
good option? Or perhaps as part of an altar or shrine? As I always
recommend… follow your intuition!
Tarot totem
Aim
With this exercise we will discover, and then honor, a Tarot card that is
especially meaningful to you.

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Background
Traditionally, the word "totem" refers to the emblem, shield or coat of arms of
a family, clan or tribe. However, in recent times, the term "totem" can be used
to refer to any object or animal with which a person has a deep spiritual
connection.
The energy of the totem is so attractive to us because it connects with our
essence. That is, people are attracted to certain objects or animals because of
their characteristics and what they represent. Totems embody a way of living
life, and serve as a constant reminder of the standards and ideals that are
meaningful to each of us. So totems not only support us, but also teach us
valuable lessons.

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Process
This activity will consist of choosing a personal totem from among the 78
cards of the Tarot deck. Your first job is to discover which particular Tarot
totem is calling to you. Your totem can be a single card, considered as a
whole (for example, the High Priestess), or simply an aspect of a particular
card (for example, the falcon that appears in the nine of pentacles in the
Waite-Smith deck ).
This is something you have to do calmly and deliberately, as part of a ritual.
There is no need to rush the process; so please take the time you need.
To begin, carefully move through your Tarot deck. As you do so, you will
notice the cards that:
• They particularly stand out.
• They are convincing.
• They connect with you.
• You admire.
• They intrigue you.
• They scare you.
Pay special attention to those cards that provoke a strong physical or
emotional reaction in you.
Once you have discovered the card that you feel is your Tarot totem, then it is
time to consider how to honor it and incorporate it into your life.
One option is to carry the Tarot card you have chosen with you, as a tangible
reminder of your totem. Whenever you need inspiration or support, your
totem will be there with you. You can also sleep with the letter under your
pillow or put it on an altar or shrine, if you have one. Another idea is to place
it on your bathroom mirror or on the refrigerator door.
On the other hand, you can create a piece of art containing your totem. In this
case, you can incorporate the letter itself into your artwork. This type of
mixed materials project fits with collage, painting or drawing. Or, instead of
having to add your card to another piece of art, you can use it as a source of
inspiration for a new creation.

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The portal
Aim
We are going to work to discover what is on the other side of a door or
portal.

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Background
A portal is any type of opening that leads from one place to another, whether
an entrance or an exit. Doors and portals have a very rich symbolism. Moving
through a portal can represent:
• The passage from one state or situation to another.
• A beginning or an end.
• Hope.
• Release.
• Change/transition.
• Initiation.
• Renaissance.
• Communication.
• Transcend a limit.
• Contact with other people.
The door or portal itself can mean:
• An access to a refuge.
• The threshold of a journey.
• Protection against danger.
• An obstacle or blockage to internal or external resources.
• A prison.
• An opportunity.
• A place of intimacy.
• Control.
By imagining a portal and then exploring what might be on the other side, we
are stimulating both our creativity and learning something about ourselves.
Process
On a piece of paper, draw or paint a door or portal. You can make it as simple
or elaborate as you want. The key is to be open and allow your creativity to
guide you. Do not think too much; Just go wherever your imagination takes
you.
It doesn't matter if your portal stands on its own or is part of a larger wall or
structure. It is important, however, that your portal can be closed.
Take all the time you need. When painting or drawing, keep in mind the size

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of the portal and how you are designing it. What are your colors? What
material is it made of? What are its characteristics and elements? Is it solid or
does it have any openings or windows? What type of outside caller do you
have (if any)? What type of locks are on the door? Does it have a peephole?
When you are done with your image, go to your Tarot deck. Your goal is to
find the letter that is on the other side of your portal. Use your imagination. If
the door could be opened, who or what would you find? What do you hope to
discover beyond that door?
On the other hand, is your door intended to remain closed? Does it serve as
protection or as a barrier? What would have to happen for the door to open,
even just a crack?
Becoming aware of the process, little by little observe your Tarot descent.
With your intuition as your guide, select the cards that connect with you.
When you're done, take some time to look at each card you've selected. Your
goal is to choose one of those cards that represents what is on the other side of
your portal.
Once you have made your choice, clear the space in front of you and simply
place the drawing of your portal and the Tarot card that represents what is on
the other side. Consider where to place the letter in relation to your door or
portal. Now place it and take some time to reflect on what you have in front
of you. When you look at your work, along with the letter, what emotions
come to you? What is the message you are receiving from this activity? Are
there any changes you need to make in your life? Or do you have a feeling of
satisfaction?
If you need, you can go to your personal journal and write down anything you
think is relevant about this experience .

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The wall
Aim
With this activity we are going to discover what is on the other side of a wall.

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Background
This is an activity that focuses on "the other side of things." Sometimes
obstacles, like walls or barriers, are built to keep something harmful out of
our lives. On the other hand, a wall, whether self-built or erected by others,
can isolate us from other people, places or things that could enrich our lives.
Symbolically, walls can represent:
• Separation.
• Protection.
• Stability.
• Privacy.
• A prison.
• Locks.
• A limit or border.
• The ruins of an empire or temple.
A wall can also be a monument, built to commemorate or remember an event
or person. For example, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington DC,
or the Western Wall in Jerusalem.
Please work on the following questions in your personal journal:
What walls need to be raised to strengthen your life? Because?
What walls need to be torn down? Because?
Process

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In this activity, you have two objectives. The first is to build a wall using your
imagination as a guide, using any artistic medium that connects with you and
that you feel comfortable with: colored pencils, markers, pens, clay, wooden
blocks, Legos........................................................................
Your second objective is to go through your Tarot deck and choose a Tarot
card that represents what you are going to leave on the other side of the wall.
The order in which you undertake each of these objectives is up to you. That
is, you can build your wall first and then decide on a card. Or you can choose
your card first and then build your wall. In any case, you must take into
account how to integrate the card you have chosen into your work.
When you are done with this activity, take some time studying what you have
created. What emotions emerge when observing the wall and the letter? What
do you need to do next – if anything? to manage these emotions?

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Walking hand in hand with the shadow
Aim
Our objective in this section is to obtain control over a distressing feeling or
behavior, cooperating with it.

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Backgrou
nd
Dealing with a mental health problem such as depression, anxiety, stress or a
compulsion can be difficult and tests us in a very profound way. The distress
we feel – or the behaviors that cause our distress – can sometimes become
overwhelming, as if our entire identity is subjugated. Often this is because we
refer to ourselves in terms of what is disturbing us.
"I'm depressed." "I'm anorexic." "I'm anxious." "I'm an alcoholic." "I'm a
compulsive eater." "I'm sick." "I'm fat". "I'm ugly". "I'm a perfectionist."
But think carefully about the verb “to be.” It is interesting because it can refer
to both a temporary state in which we find ourselves, as well as our entire
being. "I'm happy". "I'm miserable." "I'm Andy Matzner." "I'm a father."
So what happens when we use “I am” to refer to a mental health problem?
Are we at risk of seeing ourselves in absolute terms of the anguish we are
experiencing? Our entire identity, down to its core, merges with the problem.
But what happens if we don't use the verb "to be"? What would it be like to
refer to anxiety as if it were an entity separate from our identity? Can we
externalize what causes us pain or anguish? Can we go from being the
problem to having a problem that we can find a solution to? And if so, how
would you feel? In fact, what would your anguish look like if you personified
it or gave it some kind of artistic form?
In my opinion, I believe that it is possible to find and identify the person
beyond the distress, that healthy part of our identity that is still present, even
if a mental health problem exists. As therapist Bill O'Hanlon has noted, "the
person is never the problem; the problem is the problem."
Our goal is not to exile the anguish we feel. Rather, we are going to work in
collaboration with her from our healthy side. Because when we ******ebook
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We resist a problem, seeing it as "the enemy" and wishing it weren't there,
often we get the opposite effect and it gets bigger and bigger. Getting
defensive about a problem that causes us inner anguish is as if we were trying
to defend ourselves against something inside us that refuses to come out.
While on the other hand, as a psychotherapist, I have been able to see how
compassion and cooperation, paradoxically, lead us to a more productive and
healing result. This is because solving a problem by force makes it even more
resistant. When we are able to dialogue with a part of ourselves that is causing
us distress, we are more likely to find a solution that we can live with.

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Process
Think about a mental issue or problem that has been bothering you. Run your
hand through your Tarot deck and look for the card that represents this
problem.
Once you've found it, I'd like you to personalize it by giving it a name.
Remember your experiences with this matter and consider the card you have
chosen. You have the power to choose how you would like to define this
aspect of your life and what name is most appropriate.
Next, do the following in your personal journal:
1. Write directly addressing your letter. Tell him how he makes you feel.
Ask him any questions you may have, such as what he wants from you
or if he has any needs. You also have the opportunity to directly express
any emotions you may have about how to deal with the problem. Tell
him how he has impacted your life, both positively and negatively. Has
it been disruptive and discouraging? Explain how he has limited you.
On the other hand, think about whether it has also given rise to
opportunities or experiences that you would not have been able to
experience if you had not had it. Maybe not. But maybe yes. Let him
know what you think of his presence in your life.
2. Imagine that the card that represents your anguish has a voice. Now ask
him to write to you from his perspective. If it helps, you can write with
your non-dominant hand. What do you think this letter would tell you if
it could talk? What could I need from you? What could I ask you to do?
What could he be trying to teach you? (even if you're doing it the wrong
way).
Now is the time to decide what to do with your letter. I would like to suggest
two options that will give you the opportunity to let your distress reside
outside of yourself.
The first is to create a home for the letter. You can do it in two dimensions, by
painting or drawing a place for the card to reside. Since you have already
been thinking about the nature of your distress and its communication, what
type of home would be appropriate? Remember, the goal is not to punish your
distress. On the contrary, how could you satisfy their needs? And as you do
so, how could your own needs be met as well? Be sure to include the letter

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somewhere in your artwork.
You can also create a three-dimensional home using a box. Think about
whether you would like the box to remain closed or open. Do you want the
interior to be visible for someone to look inside? Or do you prefer it more
private? How can you decorate the outside and inside of the box to create an
environment suitable for your distress? What objects do you want to include
inside the box? Do you want to add furniture to create a more comfortable
environment? How are you going to place the Tarot card in this environment?
After all, it's not meant to be a prison. Rather, it is a space external to you in
which your anxiety can live comfortably. By doing so, he may have good
reasons to shift focus to you...
Once the home for your distress is finished, it's time to decide where to put it.
Do you want to place it in a private place? In the corner of some room? Under
your bed? Or somewhere more visible?
The second option is to create a sanctuary for the purpose of honoring your
heartbreak. One of the definitions of sanctuary is "a place or receptacle for
sacred relics." For our purposes, a shrine is a three-dimensional design
intended to communicate a positive message about something. It is also a way
to show respect. Creating it will allow you to pay constructive attention to
what is causing you pain. You will be aware that your relationship with your
anxiety changes when you stop hating it or when you wish it did not exist.
Paradoxically, when you start to see your problem instead of as an enemy, as
an ally with good intentions (even if it is showing it to you in the wrong way),
things can end up changing in a positive direction.
Think about the shape you want your sanctuary to look like. Would you like it
to be small enough to carry in your pocket or bag? An empty matchbox or
mint can is perfect for this. Or maybe you want something larger that can be
seen on a table or shelf? You could use any box of any size that, once opened,
stands on its own. Personally, I like shoe boxes and also boxes that hold packs
of cigarettes (your neighborhood tobacconist will surely have some empty
ones).
An alternative to a container to create your sanctuary is to find something flat
that you can use as a base on which to place these significant objects. It could
be as simple as a cloth that is draped over a small piece of furniture or table.
A rectangular or square piece of thin wood also makes a good base.

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Whether your sanctuary consists of a flat base, or is a container, consider how
you would like to decorate it. You have a world of possibilities! Acrylic paint,
markers, glitter, colored papers, fabric, collage materials, plastic flowers or
natural branches, small stones... the only limit is your imagination.
Next, think about what objects (whether personal or otherwise) you can
include in your sanctuary that will help you focus on the goal of honoring
your heartbreak. Of course, the dimensions of your container or base will
influence the size and position of the objects. Spend some time thinking about
how you would like to place things inside (if it is a box) or on top (if it is a
base) and also around the sanctuary. Make sure you reserve a place where you
are going to place the Tarot card. Since it represents your heartbreak, it is
important that the card holds a special place.
Some of these objects, you will only have to place them. Others will require
the use of glue. Start slowly, gluing the main elements first, and then adding
smaller elements around them and on top. Take your time and follow your
intuition. This is not a one-shot project. Don't put pressure on yourself to
finish it. When it is finished, you will know it with your heart.
The final task is to think about how you would like to present your sanctuary.
Maybe on a table or shelf? You could also fix it to the wall if you built it on a
box.
Whether you place it in plain sight or in a more private location, it is
important that the shrine be in a location that you can access. Don't forget that
the purpose of your sanctuary is to regularly remind you of the sacred nature
of your pain. And when the day comes when your pain is removed forever,
your sanctuary will become a monument.

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Option
You can also do this type of activity with a physical ailment, such as
fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes or cancer.

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Force
Aim
Let's create your personal definition of what it means to be strong. To do this
we are going to use both words and art.

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Background
Consider the following expressions:
• Willpower.
• Strong headed.
• Strong mind.
• Strong heart.
• Strong of faith.
• Strong of spirit.
In your opinion, what could be the most common definition of the word
“strength” in the dictionary? Do you agree? Are there different ways to be
"strong"? Are there different aspects of the meaning of "strength" that are
actually limitations?
How would you personally define the word “strength”? Where do you get
your personal strength from? What areas of your life are you currently strong
in? In what areas are you weak? Is there a way of thinking or behaving that
allows you to further develop your strength?

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Process
Most Tarot decks have a card in the major arcana called "The Strength." Look
for this card in your own deck. Observe what happens in the letter. How are
the images on the card related to the idea of “strength”? Does this card
connect with your idea of what it means to be strong?
The goal of this activity is to create a work of art that reflects your personal
definition of "strength." You can include the specific “The Strength” Tarot
card in your work or, if you don't identify with it, search through the rest of
the deck until you find a card that you do.

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Trip
Aim
Imagine where a route or path leads you.

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Background
Roads and highways have rich symbology. Like a bridge, they connect people
to places, but over land, not water or air. Sometimes roads and paths are
important because they take you away from places. Other times, their
importance lies in where they are taking you.
It is essential to keep in mind that there is a difference between a highway and
a path. We often think of a road as a paved path intended to be used by
motorized vehicles, while a road is a route that has been created through the
continuous walking over time of people and/or animals.
Highways and paths are also connected to movement, exploration and
development. They can also refer to a way of life or thought. For example,
following the path of violence or the path of virtue.
There are a number of metaphors in our language that contain the words
"road" or "road."
• Back on the road.
• A road to nowhere.
• The path to enlightenment.
• The road less traveled.
• A beaten path.
• A long and winding road.
• A dead end.
• It's the end of the road.
• On the way to the solution.
• Road to war.
• Path to peace.

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Process
This activity consists of two different projects. For the first, please read the
following quotes carefully. Choose the one or ones that make the most sense
to you and copy them into your personal journal. Once you've done this,
spend some time writing exactly why you chose them.
Next, choose one of your quotes and incorporate it into a piece of art. You can
use the quote as inspiration or you can copy the quote onto a large sheet of
paper and then decorate it. I would also like you to run your hand through the
Tarot deck and decide which of its cards you would like to incorporate into
your work. Think about the Tarot images that best connect with the essence of
the quote you have chosen.
The path to our destination is not always a straight line. We go the wrong
way, we get lost, we come back. Maybe it doesn't matter which path we take.
Maybe what matters is that we take it.
Barbara Hall
True morality is not about following the established path, but about finding
the true path for ourselves and following it without fear.
Mahatma Gandhi
The options that each one has in this world are as vast as the horizon, which
is technically a circle, therefore, infinite. However, we must choose each step
we take with the utmost caution, because the footprints we leave behind us
are as important as the path we follow. They are part of our journey- our
story.
Lori R. Lopez
Does this route have a heart? If you have it, the path is good; If you don't
have it, it's of no use.
Carlos Castaneda

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A person often meets his destiny on the path he had taken to avoid it.
Jean de la Fontaine
There are two paths that one can choose in the journey of life: one is the one
we are born with and the other is the one we consciously build. One is
naturally true, while the other is a perceptual illusion. Choose carefully at
every fork in the road.
T. F. Hodge
It is better to travel well than to arrive.

The Buddha
On the path to the truth there are only two mistakes that can be made, not
continuing to the end or not having started.
The Buddha
For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin, real life. But
there was always some obstacle in the way, something that had to be
overcome first, unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid.
Then life would begin. I finally realized that these obstacles were my life.
Alfred D'Souza
The journey between who you once were and who you are becoming is where
the dance of life truly takes place.
Barbara DeAngelis
How we spend our days is, of course, how we will spend our lives.”
Annie Dillard

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Two paths diverged in a forest, and I -
I took the one less traveled by,
and that made the difference.
Robert Frost
I often found myself where I should be simply leaving for somewhere else.
Buckminster Fuller
We may run, walk, stumble, drive or fly, but we must never lose sight of the
reason for the trip or we will miss the opportunity to see a rainbow along the
way.
Gloria Gaither
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

Lao Tse
Sooner or later, we must realize that there is no station, there is no place to

arrive once and for all. The true joy of life is the journey.
Robert J. Hastings
There is no right way. Only the one that allows you to sleep deeply and wake
up excited.
Jennifer Louden
Someone's destiny is never a place but a new way of seeing things.

Henry Miller
I would love to live like a river current, carried away by the surprise of its

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own flow.
John O'Donohue
Wisdom is not given to us, but we must discover it for ourselves, after a
journey that no one can spare us or make for us.
Marcel Proust
Life is full of unanswered questions, but it is the courage to seek those

answers that continues to give meaning to life. You can spend your life
wallowing in despair, wondering why you alone headed down a path full of
despair, or you can feel grateful that you are strong enough to have survived
it.
JD Stroube
Some stories do not have a clear beginning, middle and end. Life is about not
knowing, having to change, living in the moment and making the best of it,
not knowing what is going to happen next. Delicious ambiguity.
Gilda Radner
And you? When will the long journey towards yourself begin?
Rumi
Rowing harder doesn't help at all if the boat is heading in the wrong
direction.
Kenichi Ohmae
***
For the second project, run your hand through your Tarot deck and choose a

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card whose illustrations contain a road or a path. In the Waite-Smith deck,
these images are included in Temperance, The Moon, and The Ace of
Pentacles. The objective is to imagine what may be at the end of the path or
route that is represented on the chosen card.
When you are ready, please create a piece of art or craft that represents the
idea you came up with. If you wish, you can incorporate one or more Tarot
cards into this work of art.
The Higher Power

Aim
With this activity we are going to connect with the essence of your
spirituality.

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Background
When you think of the term “Higher Power,” what comes to mind?
How does this idea relate to your "religion", "spirituality" or "spiritual
practice"? What do these words mean to you?
Being connected to a religious or spiritual belief system can have important
benefits. Having a relationship with a sublime force, outside of ourselves, can
give us the opportunity to:
• Experience the meaning and purpose of our lives.
• Enjoy a sense of belonging and not being alone in the world.
• Feel calm in times of uncertainty.
• Know the power of unconditional love.
• Receive guidance.
• Have a refuge during stressful or distressing events.
• Connect with emotions of admiration and humility.
In your personal journal, please answer the following questions:
• In the past, have you had religious or spiritual beliefs or practices?
• Were these experiences positive or negative for you? Because?
• Have you ever had a profound religious or spiritual experience? If so,
please describe it.
• Have you ever relied on your religion or spirituality for strength during
a difficult time? If so, how?
• What role, if any, does religion or spirituality play in your life
currently?
• What are some of the activities you currently do to nourish your soul?
• Are there activities you would like to add to your life that allow you to
connect more deeply with your soul?
Process
Look at your Tarot deck and look for a card that represents your higher

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power. Once you've found it, think about how it can be incorporated into a
work of art.
You can also use this Tarot card as the centerpiece of a shrine. When creating
a sanctuary, keep the following in mind:
1. First, find a special place for your sanctuary. It can be a shelf, an empty
closet, on a table or even outside the home, on the terrace or garden.
You can paint the base of the sanctuary with a color that identifies you
or cover it with fabric.
2. If you want to make your shrine portable, you can use a small box (even
as small as a matchbox). You can find mini-sized Tarot cards that
would fit inside such small containers.
3. A creative way to decorate wooden boxes (or any wooden surface) is
through découpage . This involves gluing images or photos to the
surface and then covering them with clear glue or sealant. The effect is
quite beautiful.
4. If you decide to use a table or shelf placed against the wall, you can
stick things behind and around it.
5. Place items in your sanctuary that inspire you and remind you of your
Higher Power. You can also write a spiritual-themed poem and
incorporate it into your sanctuary.
6. If you are going to use the sanctuary for worship, rituals, meditation or
prayer, consider including elements such as candles, incense, flowers,
figures, rosaries, or any other component that helps you connect with
your Higher Power.
7. If you can, place a reading light on top of your sanctuary so it will stay
illuminated at night.
Still life study

Aim
We will create ten original artistic representations of a Tarot card.

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Background
"Still life" refers to the use of one or more inanimate objects as the center of
inspiration for a drawing or painting. In this type of work, you have the
opportunity to explore light and shadow, as well as the complexities of
coloration. It also allows you to experiment with representing objects from
various points of view.
The most important thing is to complete a series of still lifes on the same
object, which will allow you to get to know it well and see it from new
perspectives.

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Process
Take a card from your Tarot deck, either at random or carefully chosen. Your
goal is to represent it artistically in ten different ways. The medium to use for
this depends on your imagination: pencil, markers, charcoal, watercolor, pen
or paint. The same goes for size. If using large cards makes you feel more
comfortable, go for it. Likewise, feel free to mix and match sizes if you wish.
For each version, place the card in a different position or with a different
background. You can make your works as simple or complex as you want.
When you're done, design the images you've created in whatever pattern you
want. Observe what you perceive as you contemplate them, both individually
and as a whole. Do your ten versions of the card that was your original model
manage to give you new perspectives?

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Display panel
Aim
In this activity we are going to incorporate Tarot cards into a pictorial
representation of an important goal you have in your life.

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Background
A visualization board is a collage made up of drawings, written affirmations
and images that represent a goal to be achieved. The rationale behind creating
a visualization board is to achieve what you would like to have, do or be in
your life; In reality you can bring it into your life through "the law of
attraction." The idea is that the more you focus on something, the more likely
it is to happen.
And most importantly, a display board also serves as an artistic work of visual
inspiration – created by and for you! Think of it as a snapshot of the collage
of the future.

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Process
Decide what the main theme of your visualization board is going to be: what
you would like to have in your life and why.
Choose the size you would like to give your display panel. Cardstocks are
good options as background surfaces.
Next, look for images, photographs and texts that connect with your goal or
objective. The easiest thing is to look in old magazines and cut out the photos
and written words that provoke a strong emotional response in you. You can
also use photographs, images from brochures or calendars, or print images
from the Internet.
Remember that each component of the visualization board should not only
relate to your goal, but also spark your passion for the goal.
Be sure to use your Tarot deck for this project! As you look at your deck,
choose the cards that motivate you to achieve your goal.
Don't worry about the number of photographs or cards you have selected.
Collect everything that catches your attention. Once you're done, sort. Go
through your scrap pile and select those images and photos that make you
excited about achieving your goal.
Once you have your collection, use the scissors to start cutting out the images
and words into the shapes and sizes you like best.
Before gluing the materials, be creative and play with their placement on the
background surface to make your composition. You can fill the entire surface
with the collage or leave blank space if you wish.
Find a special place in your home or office to hang your display panel. Make
sure it's somewhere you'll look at it every day for inspiration!

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Interpretive study
Aim
We are going to create ten different versions of a Tarot card.

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Background
When we "interpret" something artistically, we begin by choosing an object
that we would like to reproduce in drawing, painting, or some other art
medium. But interpreting is not simply copying. Rather, the goal in making
an interpretation of something is to use our own style and put a unique stamp
on whatever we are using as a source of inspiration. Our artistic interpretation
of the original is meant to be personal and unique. In this sense,
"interpretation" consists of the transformation of the original through artistic
strategies such as: addition, subtraction, abstraction, stylization, exaggeration,
distortion...
So is it possible to see a Tarot card in ten different ways? Could we really
create ten distinctive alternatives for a single card?
At first, this challenge may seem daunting, but... use your imagination! This
way you will reach new levels of creativity.

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Process
Take a card, either at random or by choosing it carefully. Use the letter as a
source of inspiration; Remember that you are going to create ten different
versions of it. So study your letter carefully. What is the message of the
letter? What features catch your attention? What do you think are the most
important elements? You can focus on them to create some of your versions.
Or, you can emphasize minor details. What can you add or remove from the
current card image? What would the card look like if it were in an abstract or
stylized form?
The important thing is that each of your ten versions honors the spirit of the
original card.
The design and size of your works of art are at your disposal. When you're
done, display your ten pieces by placing them side by side so you can
compare and contrast them. What similarities and differences do you notice?
What have you learned about the original letter?

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The detail
Aim
In this activity we are going to use a detail from a Tarot card as inspiration to
create works of art.

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Background
Sometimes, we can feel a "creative block", which simply means "being
blank", without ideas to create a drawing, painting or any work of art. This
activity will help you overcome creative block instantly!

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Process
Look at your Tarot deck and choose a card, either deliberately or randomly.
Once you have it, your goal is to focus on just one particular characteristic of
the card. It can be something big or small, like a piece of clothing, a detail on
an article of clothing, an animal, or what someone is holding in their hands...
It can be something in the foreground or background of the card. It can be a
symbol or part of some written text. As you know, each card in itself contains
great symbolism... so you have a lot of possibilities!
You can choose the detail deliberately and very carefully, or on the contrary,
you can do it quickly by choosing something at random. That is your
decision. The important thing is that now you have a point of inspiration.
So once you've chosen your detail, the goal is to create a work of art in which
that detail is the centerpiece. That is, paint or draw the detail on the paper, and
then let the rest come. The size of your artwork is up to you.

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Mosaic
Aim
Our goal in this activity is to create a work of art with the drawings of Tarot
card illustrations.

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Background
Typically, a mosaic is an image or sketch that is created by arranging a large
number of small, colored pieces of a hard material, such as tiles, glass, or
small stones. These types of artworks, typically found on walls or floors,
illustrate the concept of "synergy," where the sum is greater than its
individual parts.

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Process
In this activity, we are going to create a mosaic using nine cards that you
choose from your Tarot deck. In a traditional mosaic, each of the individual
pieces do not make much sense on their own, but rather become art once they
are connected together. For this project, since each card is autonomous and
meaningful in itself, the challenge is to create a model in which the nine cards
become even more meaningful when we place them all together in a group.
If you come up blank, just consider the message or feeling you want to
communicate with your mosaic. As you search your Tarot deck, choose those
cards that support your idea.
When you have decided on the design of your mosaic, you can glue your
cards to the surface of a cardstock. But if you want it to be a temporary work
of art, place them without gluing them.
After you're done, step back and look at the project. How do you see it from a
distance? How do colors and images complement each other?

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Display: a glass jar
Aim
With this exercise we are going to use a glass jar to display a letter
artistically.

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Background
Mason jars can be fun because they can be used for a multitude of things.
They come in a wide variety of sizes, are easy to decorate, and can be
displayed almost anywhere. In this activity, the jar will serve as a three-
dimensional canvas for your creativity.

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Process
Your first task is to choose a glass jar or jar. The size of your jar should be
appropriate for the size of the Tarot card you are going to use.
Choose a card from your deck that you would like to display in your jar. Next,
fill the bottom of your jar two or three centimeters with salt or sand. The next
thing is to place the letter on top. Depending on the amount of space left
around the card, you can place other small objects around or behind it.
But before carrying out these steps, think about how you would like to
decorate the outside of your jar. Do you want the sides to be transparent? Or
do you want some type of design or color?
For paint, you can use acrylic, either on the inside or outside of the jar.
Experiment with different types of brushes. If you use different brushes and
straws you can even give a splatter effect.
You can also use fabric or paper to decorate, cutting the shapes or stripes that
you like the most. One option is to apply the glue to the front of the fabric or
paper and then use a wooden toothpick to arrange it on the inside of the jar.
Of course, you can also attach decorations to the outside of the container. In
addition to fabric and paper, you can use ribbons or cords to tie around the jar.
However, when decorating your jar, be sure to leave enough free space so that
the Tarot card inside the jar is still visible from the outside.
Once you have placed the letter, either with sand or salt, at the bottom of the
jar, you can place one or more decorative or significant objects around it. One
option is to leave room for a flat, battery-powered tea light. This will give the
jar a nice effect when the room is dark.

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The glass jar as a frame
Aim
With this activity we are going to show one or more Tarot cards using a glass
jar as a molding.

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Background
Believe it or not, you can make wonderful frames with glass jars. Because the
jar is a three-dimensional object, there is a whole world of creative
possibilities for this project. This is the type of display that is sure to…attract
attention!

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Process
First, choose one or more Tarot cards that you want to display. Next, choose a
glass jar that is the appropriate size. Do not glue or adhere the letter or letters
to the jar in any way. Instead, get a bottle of vegetable oil. Pour the oil into
the jar, almost until it is full. This is the medium in which your letter or letters
will sit. If you want to display your card along the front of the jar, simply
slowly insert it down into the oil, pressing it against the side of the jar you
want it to be displayed on. The weight of the oil will allow it to stay in place.
If you have chosen more cards that you want to show, just slide them in the
same way.
Another option is to use glue to join two cards on their backs. Place them in
the oil; You can place them in such a way that they are suspended in the
middle of the jar.
Once you see what your cards look like, you can consider how you would like
to decorate the rest of your jar. You can also decorate your jar first, but
making sure to leave enough free space so the cards are visible.
The acrylic paint adds a nice touch. You can play with the texture of the paint,
thus adding a new dimension. Or, you can glue cloth or paper to the outside of
the container. Additionally, by wrapping bows, cords, or raffia along the
bottom or top of the jar, you provide depth and a sense of boundary to the
frame.
Lastly, make sure to cover the jar tightly with the lid, as we don't want to risk
the oil spilling out. Plus, having a lid that covers it gives you the chance to
decorate another surface, so don't hold back!

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In front of the public and in the backstage
area
Aim
With this activity we are going to artistically represent your different faces.

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Background
Do people only know one side of you? Would they be surprised to learn
something new about you? Something you don't normally share with others.
Do you act differently when you're alone and when you're exposed to the
public?
All the world's a stage,
and all men and women mere actors:
They have their exits and entrances;
and a man in his life plays many roles,…
(Shakespeare, from As You Like It )
The sociological theory of "dramaturgy" explores the idea that life is like a
play, in that we behave differently when we know we are being watched, as
opposed to how we act when we are alone.
In his 1959 book " The Presentation of the Person in Everyday Life ," social
scientist Erving Goffman explained how people are "actors," modifying their
behavior depending on who their "audience" is. That is, our face "in front of
the stage" is the one we share with the people around us. This side of
ourselves is often influenced by cultural norms, as well as the expectations
other people have of us.
We typically invest time in preparing the presentation of a particular image to
the outside world and are particularly conscious of how to manage the
impressions we make on other people. This means that our sense of identity is
often changing, depending on who we are interacting with.
Moving from the "front stage" to the "backstage" means that we are moving
to a space where we can "be ourselves" - whatever that entails. The
"backstage area" is the personal side of ourselves that people don't know
about. And often, we don't feel comfortable sharing it with others.
This idea of two faces manifests itself in everyday life continually. For
example, I could be in a bad mood or feel sick, but since I am a teacher, I
have to put on a smile and appear like a happy person in front of my students.
Or maybe I identify as gay or lesbian, but I'm still in the closet. The person I

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present to others (managing my identity) as a "correct" person is very
different from who I "really am" in my privacy when I am alone.
Now that you have understood what the "dramaturgical perspective" means,
please take out your personal journal and consider the answers to the
following questions:
• What are some words or phrases that describe the personality you show
to the outside world?
• How have the expectations of others influenced the way you act when
you are on stage in front of an audience?
• Who do you feel you really are when you're "backstage" and no one is
watching? What are some words or phrases that describe these aspects
of yourself?

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Process
To start, I would like you to look for a small or medium sized box. Any
cardboard box is fine as long as it has a top you can open; Cigarette boxes and
shoe boxes work well for this exercise. The outside of the box will represent
you on stage in front of the audience; The interior represents what you are
when you are backstage.
Once you have your box, please look at your Tarot deck. I would like you to
choose the cards that connect or are related to the character you represent on
stage in front of others. As you go through your deck, think about the
different roles you currently play in your life. Be aware of how you are
"supposed" to behave around others. You already know how you should and
usually act to make others respond the way you want. So what cards could
symbolize or summarize who you are when you are "public facing"?
Next, your goal is to decorate the top and sides of the box so that they
represent yourself on stage. In addition to Tarot cards, you can use paint,
markers, paper, ribbons, string or any other object or material that connects
with you.
When you are finished with the outside of the box, please return to your Tarot
deck. Next, select the cards that represent or symbolize you backstage, in the
backstage area, when you relax and are alone with yourself. Once you have
done this, look for other objects that are also related to who you feel you
really are. When you have finished selecting cards and items, please place
everything you have collected into the box.
When you are finished with your art project, return to your journal to answer
the following questions:
Is there tension between the public-facing stage and the private backstage
area? how does it make you feel?
Is there anything you can do to create harmony or greater coherence between
both scenarios, between your face to the public and your “I” when you are
alone? Or do you feel satisfied with the boundary that exists between these two aspects of
yourself?
Forward!
Aim
We are going to use a Tarot card as an artistic impulse.

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Background
Have you ever felt artist's block? You want to create a drawing, painting or
any work of art but the idea escapes you. Well, I have good news, Tarot cards
can help you!
Each Tarot card is a universe in itself that can be seen in isolation from the
rest of the cards in the deck. That is, all the information you need to know
about a card can be found in the card itself, without having to rely on other
cards or look for other references.
At the same time, it is also true that the cards are connected to each other.
This becomes evident when they are separated from the deck as individual
parts and we see the patterns running through the major arcana, the four suits
of the minor arcana, and the court cards. In this sense, each letter is another
scene in an even broader story. Some cards lead to others, while other cards
are a continuation; each has its own place of importance in the great history of
Tarot.
These links between cards add another dimension to Tarot interpretation, as
the meaning of a card is multiplied when viewed in relation to other cards in
the deck. That's the genius of Tarot: the cards can be seen in isolation or as
part of an absolute whole.

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Process
For the purpose of this activity, think of each Tarot card as representing a
scene from a story you are halfway through writing… by you! So go to your
deck and choose a card, either randomly or intentionally.
Study the scene that appears in the letter; let it inspire your creativity. Think
about where this card could fit into a story or tale. What's more, you can see it
as a beginning, in the central part of the story or as an end. Allow yourself to
let your imagination run wild, and when you're ready, start drawing or
painting what happens next.
How long or short you would like your work to be is up to you. The same
goes for style; You can create a scene using the same Tarot card style that
serves as your artistic drive, or you can abstract away and create something
with a completely different style.
This exercise allows you to break the artistic block for two reasons. First of
all, you now have a beginning that encourages you to start walking and that
guides your artistic process. Secondly, you only have to complete the next
scene of a story, nothing more. And that's not so bad, right? Of course, if you
want to continue adding scenes, please go ahead!
Option
I suggest that if you feel inspired, you draw or paint what happened before the
scene in the letter.

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gratitude journal
Aim
The objective of this activity is to connect with a sense of self-recognition.

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Background
Various researchers, most notably Robert Emmons, have discovered that there
are numerous benefits when we pay attention to those good things in our lives
that we normally take for granted. By focusing on a sense of gratitude, our
sense of happiness increases. But that is not all. These studies have shown
that we can also improve our sleep, increase energy, strengthen our immune
system, become more optimistic people, and develop a greater ability to cope
with life's challenges, simply by feeling more grateful.
So why don't we harness the power of gratitude more often? Well simply…
because we forget! After all, we have a very busy life. In our daily lives we
have too many responsibilities and things to do. Therefore, it makes sense that
we eventually develop a lack of awareness for all those things in our lives for
which we should be grateful.
An easy way to remember our blessings is to use a “gratitude journal.” With
this, we will attest in writing to all those things for which we have to be
grateful. There are no complicated rules or quick path on how exactly to do
this. For example, you could make a list of three, five, or even ten things each
time you work with your gratitude journal. And you could do this every day,
every other day, or even just once a week. Some people prefer to write in their
gratitude journal before bed, while for others, first thing in the morning is the
best time. The most important thing is to make the gratitude journal become
another part of your life, perfectly integrated into your daily life. A simple
way to do this is to turn the activity into a ritual. That is, even if we only
spend a couple of minutes doing it, the essential thing is to commit to the
practice of expressing this gratitude with the importance and respect it
deserves.
In addition to writing, we can connect with gratitude by using visual cues.
And for this, the Tarot deck is the perfect tool.

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Process
Go through your Tarot deck and choose three cards that represent what you
are grateful for in your life. Once you find them, spend some time thinking
about how you can use these cards to create a work of art. How can you use
your creativity to honor them? What kind of artistic medium would do them
justice?
This powerful ritual is something you can do periodically, such as once a
week or month.

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Option
I propose that you choose one of the cards to carry with you, either
permanently or for a certain period of time (for example, a day or a week).

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The sketch of your autobiography
Aim
In this section we are going to see how your life can be summarized, both in
writing and visually.

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Background
Please write your autobiography in your personal diary using only one page.
This is the story of your life, so you have to start at the beginning and end on
the current day. Write using the third person in your narrative. That is, talk
about yourself using your name and "she" or "he." Since you only have one
page, carefully consider what you want to highlight. How do you remember
your life? What do you stand out the most? What is worth including?
When you're done, you can write another version of your autobiography,
again using only one page. This time, however, I would like you to write in
the first person, addressing yourself as “I” when you write.
You now have two pages of autobiographical information. Read about what
you've written. Notice what you have focused on. Is there anything that
surprises you? Is there anything you could have left out or would like to add?
The final part of this exercise is to summarize your life up to the present in
three sentences, using third-person narration. Take all the time you need.

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Process
Now imagine that you have been asked to write your entire autobiography. A
book about the story of your life. To carry out this project, the first two
objectives are:
• Choose the title of the book.
• Create a cover for your book, the centerpiece of which will be a Tarot
card. The challenge will be to choose the Tarot card that best
summarizes your life.
You can use any size paper you want for the book cover. The design, style
and decoration depend on you. Options include painting or drawing. It is also
possible to use collage or mixed media.

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Option
Another possible autobiographical art project is the following:
Go to your Tarot deck and choose the three cards that best summarize your
life (either just in the current moment or from your past to the present).
Arrange the cards on a piece of paper and when you are happy with their
placement, glue them together. Choose a title for your work and finish by
decorating the free space around the cards.

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Tarot cards collage
Aim
With this activity we are going to create a collage using Tarot cards.

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Background
Collage is an art form in which different materials are combined by gluing
them onto a flat surface, such as paper or cardboard. The source material
usually comes from old magazines, photos, or books. You can include three-
dimensional elements such as ribbons, bows, cords, leaves, seeds, tissue
paper, fabric, feathers, or even pasta pieces as well. Basically, if you can stick
an element to the surface you're using for the collage, then... call it a good
one!
A simple way to create a collage is by simply collecting images, texts and/or
articles that capture your attention. You can then experiment with placing
each of them on your surface ( before gluing them). Once you have achieved
a composition that you like, then you can go ahead and glue the different
elements together. And there you have it: a unique piece of original art!
Collages can also be used to illustrate specific themes, such as:
• What makes you happy.
• A goal or vision for the future.
• Which gives you hope.
• A message to yourself.
• An affirmation.
• Something that inspires you.
• Your favorite activities and hobbies.
• What makes you enjoy.
• The things that make you smile.
• A problem and its solution.
• Your values.
• What you want to create in your life.
• Someone or something that is important in your life.

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Process
For this activity, we are going to use Tarot cards to create a collage.
Remember that the Rider-Waite Tarot deck has four sizes: mini, small,
medium (standard), and large.
If you are using one of the smaller decks, you will have enough room to use
the entire cards in the collage. Using the standard or large decks will give you
the option to cut the cards. You can also layer cards on top of each other
instead of leaving empty spaces around them. How you place the pieces on
the paper depends on your artistic vision; Let the cards and your imagination
guide you!

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The meaning of life
Aim
With this activity we are going to think about why you are here and what
really matters about being alive.

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Backgrou
nd
Throughout history, people have wondered what it means to be alive and if
there is a purpose to it. We have asked ourselves questions such as:
• Why are we here?
• Why am I here?
• What is the nature of reality?
• What is the purpose of life?
• What is valuable in life?
• What makes life meaningful?
• What are we living?
Of course, the responses have been numerous and varied: to fulfill each
person's dreams; to be happy; to serve others; to connect with Divinity; to
develop our potential; to do good; to be authentic; to seek wisdom; to
challenge oppression; to seek pleasure; to love. And some simply don't find
meaning in life.
Please consider the following quotes. Copy those with which you identify in
your journal.
The ability to care for others is what gives life its meaning and its deepest
meaning.
Pablo Casals
The meaning of life is to find your gift; The purpose of life is to give it to you.
A stranger
Although a man may have no jurisdiction over the fact of his existence, he
may have command over the meaning of existence for him.
Norman Cousins
Our main purpose in this life is to help others. And if you can't help them, at
least not hurt them.
The Dalai Lama
I think everyone should get rich and famous and do everything they ever
dreamed of so they can see that it's not the answer.
Jim Carrey
Beyond work and love, I would like to add two other ingredients that give
meaning to life. First of all, develop all the talents we are born with. No
matter how blessed we have been by destiny, with different abilities and
strengths, we must try to develop them to the fullest, and not allow them to
atrophy or go into decline.
We all know people who didn't keep the promise they made to themselves in
childhood. Many of them have felt haunted by the image of what they could
have become. Instead of blaming luck, I think we should accept ourselves as
we are and try to fulfill everything we dream of within our capacity.
Secondly, we must try to leave the world a better place than the one we knew
when we entered it. As individuals, we can make a difference, whether by
probing the secrets of nature, caring for the environment and working for
peace and social justice, or by nurturing the vibrant curiosity of the spirit of
young people, by being a mentor and guide.
Michio Kaku
Being what we are and becoming what we are capable of being is the only
purpose of life.
Robert Louis Stevenson
I have a simple philosophy: fill the void. Empty what is full. Scratch where it
itches.
Alice Roosevelt Longworth

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When you learn to appreciate everything that surrounds you, that is when you
have found the true meaning of life. But when you learn to love another with
all your heart, that is when you have finally understood that you have truly
begun to fulfill the purpose of your existence.
Jamine Isabel E. oops
I wake up in the morning struggling between a desire to improve the world

and a desire to enjoy the world. This makes it difficult to plan the day.
Elwyn Brooks Blanca
Life is what we make it, it always has been that way and it always will be that
way.
Grandma Moses
The entire art of living consists of a fine mixture of letting go and holding on.
Havelock Ellis
What is the essence of life? Serve others and do good.

Aristotle
They say that what we are all looking for is the meaning of life. I don't think
that's what we're looking for. I believe that what we seek is the experience of
being alive, so that our experiences on the purely physical plane have
resonance within our being and our most intimate reality, and thus, we truly
feel the joy of being alive.
Joseph Campbell
I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the entire community, and as long

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as I live, it is my privilege to do for it all that I can. I want to be fully utilized
when I die, because the harder I work, the longer I live. I rejoice in life for its
own sake. Life is not a brief candle for me. It is a certain kind of splendid
torch that I hold onto for the moment, and I want to make it shine as brightly
as possible before handing it on to future generations.
George Bernard Shaw
I can follow a path anyway, even if it is lonely, crooked and narrow - on

which to walk with love and respect.
Henry David Thoreau
Your purpose in life is to find your purpose and give it all your heart and
soul.
The Buddha
The purpose of life is a life with purpose .

Ludwig Wittgenstein
***
Now is the time to express your own thoughts. You have already lived part of
your life and have a multitude of experiences. What is your own philosophy
of life? What do you think is the meaning and purpose of life? Please write
your answer in your journal. It can be as brief or as extensive in detail as you
wish.

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Process
Your goal is to pour what you have written in your journal through your
imagination and creativity and shape it as a work of art. First, calmly look at
your Tarot deck and choose one or more cards that relate to your idea of "the
meaning of life." When you are finished, consider how you could represent
the meaning of life in a work of art, taking advantage of the possibility
offered by the card or cards you have chosen.

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Tarot Mandala
Aim
The goal of this activity is to use sacred geometry as a tool for reflection and
healing.

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Background
You have noticed that everything an Indian does is in a circle, and that is
because everything the Power of the Universe does is done in the shape of a
circle. The sky is circular, and I have heard that the earth is round like a ball,
and the stars are also round. The wind, at its maximum force, swirls. The
birds make their nests in the shape of circles, because they have the same
religion as us... The sun rises and sets in a circle. The moon does the same,
and they are both round. Even the seasons, with their changes, form a great
circle, and always return to where they were. The life of man is a circle from
childhood to childhood, and so it is in all things in which the Power of the
Universe moves.
Black Moose
Circles are found everywhere in the natural world; from the planets in the sky
to the earth beneath our feet; from spider webs to the elements that make up
flowers; from the cells of our body to the atoms that make up reality itself.
Similarly, nature moves in circles. Thus, we can see this movement from the
orbits of the planets, the cyclical movements of the seasons, months, days,...
to the rhythmic cycles of breathing and blood flow.
The creation of circular designs has been part of spiritual traditions around the
world for thousands of years. Examples include mandalas found in both
Hindu and Buddhist practices, the Native American medicine wheel, Aztec
and Mayan natural stones, the Celtic cross, rock formations such as
Stonehenge, and the rose windows of the Gothic Christian cathedrals.
In this activity we are going to focus on the idea of a "mandala", which is an
ancient Sanskrit word that means "sacred circle." This word itself comes from
manda , meaning the essence, and la , meaning container.
In Hindu and Buddhist symbolism, a mandala consists of a circular design
that represents the universe. The most important feature of a traditional
mandala is its center, from which everything radiates outward.
It was a psychoanalyst, Carl Jung, who first introduced the use of the mandala
in the West as a therapeutic tool. Drawing or coloring a mandala was believed

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to be a powerful activity because it led to self-awareness and healing. Jung
explained that this artistic process produces a calming effect on the soul
because it gives a person the opportunity to reproduce the order of nature
within the chaos of the psyche.
For Jung, the circular design of the mandala and its content could be
symbolically very rich because, among other things, it represents:
• Wholeness, completion and unity.
• The balance between a person's inner and outer life.
• The structure of a person's life.
• The organization of the world or even the universe itself.
• The relationship that a person has with the world.
• The own unconscious.
• A version of past, present or future reality.
Jung also discovered that spending time meditating before a mandala led to
important insights, as well as a sense of feeling grounded.
The creative process of constructing a mandala – a circle with a center –
allows you to express emotional truths that have been waiting to come out.
Just as Jung thought, a mandala is the perfect vehicle to make the unconscious
conscious. And once we become aware of something, we can then decide
what to do with it: release it, honor it, question it, or contemplate it.
Process
First of all, select the background material. This can be paper, canvas or
cardstock. Choose any background color that connects with you and that you
feel comfortable with. A black cardboard background may be especially
recommended because the Tarot cards will stand out more on it.
Now, go through your Tarot deck and choose a card to be the focal point of
your layout.
Next, you are going to outline the outer circular border within which you will
create your mandala. A compass or some large round object can help you
trace the circle on the background surface. You can use a thick marker to
paint and outline the border. On the other hand, smaller Tarot cards can also
be used to delimit the outline of the circle.
Of course, you don't have to create perfect circles; The foundation of a

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mandala is to create some type of circular design, but it can also evolve into a
spiral shape, if that is where your intuition guides you.
For this activity, think carefully about what the center card represents to you.
Once you're ready, one option is to start radiating the mandala design from
the center card outward. Another option is to start working from the outer
limits of your circle and little by little, create the design towards the center.
Once again, the most important thing is to follow your intuition.
This is an art project that can be made as simple or as complex as you like. As
for Tarot cards, it is possible to use a single card (as your centerpiece) or
incorporate more cards into your design. An easy way to do this is to place
four cards on the outside border of your circle, one in each direction (i.e.
above, below, to the right, and to the left of the center card). You can also
create a mandala made up of several concentric circles created with different
Tarot cards. Finally, with the cards arranged in a frame, it will be easier for
you to fill in the rest of the circle using colored pencils, markers, watercolors,
or dimensional elements such as beads, feathers, or pasta.
When you have finished your mandala, take a moment to sit and contemplate
what you have created. Look at the design; What colors and shapes have you
used? What does your mandala say about who you are or where you are right
now in your life?
Now, either silently in your mind, or writing in your personal journal, reflect
on the process of creating this art project. Has it been difficult or did it flow
easily? What emotions or thoughts came up while you were busy doing it?
How did you know when you were done? What role has the Tarot card or
cards played in your design?
You can also meditate (or write in your journal) about what the mandala
evokes in your imagination. One option, if you're feeling inspired, is to create
a poem from your artwork.

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personal limits
Aim
Let's create artistic representations of personal limits to be aware of the
importance they have.

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Background
Personal boundaries are connected to our ability to protect our physical and
emotional space. We have little control over how other people treat us. We
depend on others to appropriately respect our physical and emotional
boundaries. And depending on whether or not certain lines are crossed, we
will develop a sense of what is and is not appropriate, both towards ourselves
and our own behavior towards others.
For example, a person may have weak or poorly defined boundaries due to
important needs that were not respected during childhood. Abuse and trauma
are examples of personal boundary violations, which often lead to feelings of
loss of control and being at the mercy of others. For example, a child was able
to learn that his body was not his own. Or a young woman may have assumed
that she had no voice when it came to expressing how she wanted to be
treated by others. This type of parenting usually generates the feeling that a
person has to satisfy the needs of others in order to survive. In adolescence
and adulthood, these early experiences often lead to difficulties in saying
"No" to the demands and requests of others. This, in turn, can lead a person
into co-dependent relationships, as the personal boundaries between self and
others become blurred.
On the other hand, depending on what they experienced during childhood, a
person may think that the only way to stay safe is to build strong interior
walls. For example, a parent may tell their child that crying is a sign of
weakness. Or a young person may be deeply affected by the loss of a loved
one, such as a parent or friend, and in response choose not to be intimate with
other people to avoid the pain of the loss. The development of these rigid
personal boundaries leads to the inability to say “Yes” to anything in life.
These types of calcified walls make it difficult for a person to ask other
people for help or connect with others, both physically and emotionally.
Healthy boundaries are created when we have a clear idea of who we are
because our needs were recognized and honored when we were children
because at that time, we felt valued by those around us and thus we learned to
value ourselves. This, in turn, allowed us to feel comfortable setting
appropriate boundaries with others as we reached adulthood.
Healthy boundaries are not only strong, but they are also flexible. This feature

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allows us to respond to different situations as needed and in a justified
manner, rather than staying stuck in old patterns. We know when to soften
and open our boundaries in order to feel compassion and sensitivity. And we
know when to stand firm in our position, when we have to protect ourselves.
For example, a person with weak boundaries typically says "Yes" to
everything, even when they are not at their best to do so. And the default
response of a person with rigid boundaries is "No," despite the fact that this
response usually causes discomfort.
Having flexible limits gives us the opportunity to respond appropriately to
what is really happening at any given moment. By being able to trust our
emotions and feel comfortable addressing our own needs, our interactions
with people today are not bound in the chains of the past.

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Process
For this activity, your first task is to create a self-portrait (either real or
abstract) and then artistically represent the nature of your current personal
boundaries, as you feel they appear around you.
Start by asking yourself:
• Is it easy or difficult for me to ask others for what I need?
• Is it easy or difficult for me to protect myself from negative energy?
• Do I feel like I am in control of my personal boundaries?
• What do I feel are my limits? Are they rigid or blurry? Maybe a
combination?
• What shape do my boundaries take on around me? What colors or
textures do they have?
Before you begin your art project, go through your Tarot deck and choose a
card to represent your “Self.” Glue this card to the top left corner of the paper
you will use to create your image. Leave the upper right corner of the paper
with enough space so that you can place another card that will be connected to
the previous one.
Once you've finished creating your self-portrait (as I mentioned above,
whether true to life or abstract) take some time to think about how to capture
your personal boundaries. When drawing them, what shape and size are you
going to give them? What would be the best way to artistically represent them
around your self-portrait?
Once you've finished drawing your personal boundaries on your self-portrait,
take some quiet time to study the image you've created.
Ask yourself if you are satisfied with your current personal limits. Do you feel
that you are properly protected by them? Do you feel comfortable asking for
your needs to be met and met? If so, choose another card from your Tarot
deck. This time you are going to look for the card that will act as the guardian
of your limits. With their help, you will be able to maintain healthy personal
boundaries and at the same time, you will be able to convey to other people
where your boundaries lie so that they respect them.
Once you have found the card that connects with you the most for this role,
stick it in the space you reserved in the upper right corner of the paper. We

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have already finished.
Now, once your work is finished, when you study it calmly, you may be
aware that your current personal boundaries do not adequately protect you.
If that's the case, then your goal is to create another version of yourself on a
new piece of paper, but this time with the personal boundaries you would
ideally like to have. Think about strong but flexible boundaries. Limits that
can be seen and felt. What colors and shapes are you going to use for your
design? How are you going to show that your new limits are healthy limits?
Before beginning this second self-portrait, return to your Tarot deck. Look for
a card that symbolizes a future version of yourself with boundaries that make
you feel safe and secure. When you have found it, glue it to the upper left
corner of the paper.
Make sure you leave space in the upper right corner, as this is where you will
place the Tarot card that will act as the "guardian" of your personal
boundaries. Wait to do the latter until you have finished your new self-
portrait.

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Scribble
Aim
In this activity we are going to use a Tarot card as artistic inspiration to relax
and carefreely draw a doodle.

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Background
Doodling has somewhat of a bad reputation. The dictionary defines it as
drawing carelessly or carelessly, sketching in a hasty manner. But doodling is
the first fundamental step in children's artistic development. And for adults, it
is a form of communication that comes from a deep place within us.
In this activity, the inspirational powers of a Tarot card will serve as a starting
point for creating a work of art. Doodling on the page - even though it may
seem meaningless - is the perfect way to let your imagination run wild, as it
taps into a sense of play that we often lose as we move further away from
childhood. Doodling also gives your conscious mind a break, as your
subconscious takes over the creative process.

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Process
It is important that you feel relaxed before starting this activity. If possible,
spend some time meditating until you become fully centered. You can also
play some relaxing music in the background, light some candles, and diffuse
some essential oils.
When you're ready, choose a card from your Tarot deck at random. Paste it on
a sheet of paper, wherever you like: right in the center, in a corner, on the
side... it doesn't matter.
Next, grab your favorite pencil, pen, or marker. Colored paints also work
great for this activity. Now, let your hand move on its own because it is the
instrument for scribbling in the space around your card. Where you draw
those doodles is up to you. Do not think too much. Actually, don't think at all
about what you're drawing. Simply let your intuition guide you.
When you feel like you're done, put your pencil down on the table. Take a
few minutes to study what you have created. Do you notice any patterns in the
doodles you've drawn?
Now, it is your decision whether you consider your work finished or want to
embellish it with other colors, collage materials or other details.

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Define the abstract
Aim
With this activity we aim to make an abstract idea concrete.

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Background
By their very nature, abstract concepts lend themselves to an infinite number
of artistic representations. The process of shaping words such as
"spirituality," "love," or "wholeness" will lead you to think deeply about the
personal meaning these concepts have for you. You may be very surprised
with the results...

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Process
In your personal journal, please write how you would define the word
"spirituality" and what this idea means to you. When you are done, go to your
Tarot deck and choose the card that you feel best represents this word.
Using this card as inspiration, your goal is to create a work of art that reflects
your definition of "spirituality." The artistic mediums you choose will depend
on you, as will the decision of whether or not to incorporate the Tarot card
into your work.
If you wish, you can do the same with the following words:
• Balance.
• Responsibility.
• Happiness.
• Fullness.
• Delusion.
• Frustration.
• Patience.
• Faith.
• Love.

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Tarot Zen Garden
Aim
We are going to create a symbolic landscape in three dimensions.

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Background
The Zen garden originated in the Buddhist monasteries of Japan. The monks
devised this type of garden to create the perfect environment for
contemplation. Thanks to the naturalistic simplicity of this type of “outdoor
sculpture,” its design evokes feelings of relaxation and tranquility.
Called karesantui in Japanese (often translated as "dry landscape," but
literally meaning "dry mountain water"), this type of garden is made up of
two main elements: sand or gravel and stones or rocks. As its name suggests,
this type of garden is a metaphorical representation of the interaction between
land, sea and sky.
Additionally, carefully pruned trees, shrubs and mosses are often placed in
and around the garden in order to add a sense of harmony and contrast. The
Zen garden is based on the principle of yin and yang, which in turn is based
on the dynamic relationship between opposing forces: light - dark, dry - wet,
soft - hard, linear - circular, low - high, firm - malleable, irregular - regular,
flat - curvilinear, rough - smooth, large - small, gregarious - solitary, wide -
narrow...
The sand serves as a backdrop on which the well-placed rocks are placed to
symbolize the contrasts between the different elements of nature. The act of
raking the sand or gravel giving it a wave shape is very important, since doing
so gives us the opportunity to develop attention and concentration.
Nowadays, small tabletop versions of complete Zen gardens (in small trays
with sand, stones and even a small rake) are available and used as stress-
reducing tools. For some people it is a very relaxing and meditative practice
with which to "play" with a mini-oasis. By slowly and gently handling the
sand and the rest of the garden objects, you can achieve a state of inner peace
and tranquility.
At the same time, Zen gardens work on another level: creating something
tangible from scratch can be a fun stimulus for multi-sensory activity. The
connection with the games of our early ages (such as sorting, pouring,
burying...) often awakens the imagination of the inner child within all of us.
The nature of this activity also provides the opportunity to connect with the
depths of the psyche. By using the creative process to create a metaphor of a

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miniature world, the subconscious is able to communicate and collaborate
with the conscious mind.

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Process
Find a tray or container that is a suitable size for the garden you would like to
create. This container can be made of wood, metal, ceramic, plastic or glass.
If you want you can paint the bottom and/or the inside sides of the tray.
Next, add a layer of sand or rice. If you are using a glass container with a bit
of depth, colored sand will create a nice effect.
Now you can start creating wave-shaped patterns on the surface with a fork, a
small comb, or a miniature rake. If you want to make more detailed designs in
the sand or rice, you can use the tip of a knife or a pen. Have fun
experimenting with this part of the project, as it's easy to smooth the surface
and start over.
Once you've finished with your surface, it's time to add objects to your
garden: stones, pebbles, twigs, pieces of wood, shells, small figurines, a small
cactus... or two, the only limit is your imagination! Think about where to
place things, the types of contrasts and how each element complements each
other within the landscape you want to create.
Your Tarot cards will be an important part of this creative process. Remember
that if you are using the Waite-Smith deck you will have four options when
choosing size (mini, small, standard and large). Look at your deck and select
one or more cards whose energy connects with the garden you are creating. It
is possible to choose a particular card to place in the center, which would act
as a focal point. Or you can choose a series of cards related to each other with
a common theme and energy.
Try different options with placing the card or cards in the sand or rice.
Depending on the size of the tray you are using, you can insert the cards
vertically at different depths. Consider what part of the letter you want to be
visible and what part you prefer not to be seen. You can also put the card
horizontally or at an angle. Another option is to cover the sides of the tray
with cards, either completely around it or in several spots; with the cards
arranged horizontally or vertically.
As you build this unique, self-contained microworld, you may want to think
about what each element symbolizes for you. What kind of metaphorical
language can you create as you compose your garden? What would you like

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to communicate (either to yourself or to others)? Are there significant objects
from your life that you want to include in your garden? If so, what do each of
these objects represent to you?
You also have to take into account the position in which you place the
elements of your garden and the different shapes that you create. For example,
you can arrange objects in a linear fashion, create a circle, or make a spiral
design. Do these specific shapes that you are creating have any deeper
meaning for you?
On the other hand, you don't have to think all the time about how to interpret
each step of building your garden. You can let your intuition guide you to
build your landscape, letting the left side of your brain (the logical side) take a
break.
When you've finished your garden, think about what to do with it next. One
option is to make a permanent exhibition somewhere in your home or at work.
Another possibility would be to see it as a temporary piece of art that can be
assembled and disassembled as you wish.

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Coat of arms
Aim
We are going to visually identify what you are and what represents you.

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Background
Imagine, in medieval times, a knight dressed in his armor. Now imagine a
group of knights, all wearing very similar uniforms and armor, trying to kill
each other. How could allies be distinguished from enemies?
The solution was the creation of the "coat of arms."
Originating in medieval times, the coat of arms consisted of a unique design
that was reflected on weapons of war, uniforms and flags and that easily
identified the bearer. The specific colors and symbols of each house
represented ancestry, family reputation, and special personal characteristics.
Over time, these designs spread and began to be used on other utensils such as
clothing, carriages, letter seals... Coats of arms quickly became fashionable
and wealthy families who had no relationship with the army or the military
began to use their own shields. The designs were incorporated into the
facades of the houses and into different works of architecture, jewelry,
coins,... Its use also spread among merchants, and because in the medieval
period many people did not know how to read or write, the coat of arms of
Weapons made it easy to identify the different families among themselves.
Nowadays, even institutions such as universities, city councils, towns and
villages, countries... all have their own coats of arms.
Traditionally, the design of the coat of arms took two forms. The first of them
simply took the form of a shield. The second was more complex; The shield
was the centerpiece, but other artistic elements were also incorporated. This
design consists of a helmet or “helm” on the shield and above it, the “crest” is
located, which acts as an identifier. This crest is often the head of an animal
(usually a deer or an eagle). On both sides of the shield there are “supports”,
which are again animals or people on which the shield “rests”. At the bottom
of the shield a flag is incorporated, within which the motto or slogan of the
family, house or owner of the shield is written.
The design of the coat of arms is based entirely on symbolism. For example,
base colors (whether background or foreground) represent specific traits:
yellow or gold for generosity; white or silver for peace; blue for loyalty; red
for value; green for joy and hope…, and so on. Animals also came to be
associated with specific traits. We can cite as examples bears as a symbol of

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protection; dogs as a symbol of loyalty; eagles and lions as symbols of
leadership and courage; deer as a symbol of peace… The creators of coat of
arms designs use a multitude of symbols. Thus, an ax represents courage, a
bridge indicates a magistrate, a heart understands burning passion, a star
indicates nobility, a tower or castle illustrates protection..., and so on.
Flowers, plants or fruits are also typical elements of the shields.
As a therapeutic activity, creating a personal coat of arms will help you
develop a sense of cohesion to it. By artistically expressing key elements of
who you are and what represents you in a single design, you have the
opportunity to integrate and consolidate the positive aspects of your identity.

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Process
In the center of a large sheet of paper, draw a shield, giving it the shape you
want. Leave enough space around it. Decide what color you want to use for
the background of your shield. Likewise, choose between using paint,
watercolor, markers, colored pencils, crayons... do you prefer a uniform color
or different shades?
Next, using a ruler and a black marker, divide the shield into four equal
sections (quadrants). Your task is to go through your Tarot deck and choose a
card for each quadrant based on what you answer for the following questions:
Quadrants 1 and 2: What do you like about yourself?
Quadrants 3 and 4: What represents you? that is, what you deeply value and
defend in life.
When you've finished gluing the cards into each quadrant, it's time to create
your helm, which is the section just above your shield. This will consist of
three cards arranged horizontally, one next to the other. Each of these cards
represents something you want other people to know about you. To create the
crest, choose a card that represents something you have done in life that you
are really proud of.
Your next task is to choose four cards that will act as your supports or
supports. These cards symbolize who or what protects you and gives you
strength. Two of these cards will go on each side of your shield; You can
arrange them however you prefer, horizontally or vertically. If you want, you
can draw or paint decorations such as flowers, vines, wreaths, or trees around
your props.
Now is the time to think of a personal slogan or motto. What is representative
for you and do you want to communicate to others? What is your personal
philosophy? Do you have a favorite quote? What motto could you choose that
accurately reflects who you are and represents your values? You will write
this motto at the bottom of your shield.
Under the shield, you have to write your name, either in its entirety or just a
part. This can be your first name or another nickname you have been given –
or one you use for yourself – that connects deeply with you.

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When you've finished working on your personal coat of arms, step back and
take some time to digest what you've created. How does it make you feel?
What memories does it evoke for you? What kind of person does he
represent? And finally, where could you display this unique reminder of who
you are and what represents you?

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Positive reinforcement
Aim
In this activity we are going to explore the positive aspects of yourself that
you already possess and, in addition, we are going to consider the traits that
you would like to develop.

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Background
We often forget what we like about ourselves. It's very easy to pay attention
to the things that are going wrong in our lives or dwell on the things we don't
like about ourselves. That is why it is important to take a step back, distance
ourselves and observe ourselves with kind and loving eyes. By reminding
ourselves of our positive characteristics, we will foster our self-compassion
and self-pride.
Likewise, it is important to consider the type of person we would like to
become in the future. Is there something about your personality that you
would like to develop in a positive way? Some people would like to be more
sensitive to others, more assertive or to be able to stop and smell the roses.
Each of us has our own ideas about what our positive self-growth might
consist of.
I would like you to make three lists in your personal journal. The first of them
is to name the things you like about yourself. Just brainstorm, write down
what comes to mind. It doesn't matter how great or insignificant these aspects
of yourself are. Simply ask yourself: "What do I like about myself?"
The second list is to write down the recognitions that other people have made
of you in the past. It doesn't matter how small these are. Take some time to go
back in your memory and see if you can remember times when someone gave
you positive attention because of something you said or did. Write them down
on your list.
Your third list is to write down the positive characteristics that you would like
to develop for yourself.
Process
This activity involves the creation of two pieces of art, both based on collage.
First, you are going to create a piece of art focused on what you like about

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yourself. Run your hand through your Tarot deck and choose those cards that
you feel represent your positive traits. These cards will be the main focus of
your artwork. You can also use magazine clippings if you wish.
Your second piece of art will focus on positive characteristics that you do not
currently possess but would like to have in the future. Once again, review
your Tarot deck little by little and select those cards that symbolize ways of
being or personalities that connect with you. Think about how you would like
to arrange these cards on paper. What can you do to create a collage that
inspires you towards future personal development?

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A good life
Aim
Let's think about what it means to you to have a "good life."

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Background
"The pursuit of happiness". This right is included in the United States
Constitution. However, the pursuit of wealth, power and fame - three things
we normally believe will make us happy - is actually leading us in the
opposite direction to happiness. It leads us towards frustration and envy.
Those who have successfully achieved the "American Dream" often find that
the acquisition of money and power only leads to dissatisfaction and a feeling
of pressure to continue to be more successful. After all, having more and
more material things and economic and social status to maintain means there
is much more to lose. So, does this mean that the pursuit of happiness does
not lead to anything positive?
Now I would like us to focus on the idea of "a good life." What does that
phrase mean to you? Does it have to do with the idea of being happy all the
time? Does it have something to do with money? What might having a "good
life" look like if we leave happiness and money out of the equation? What can
be the elements to achieve “a good life”?
How will you know, at the end of your life, that you have lived "a good life"?
What will you have done? What will be really important to you at the end of
your days? What have you done differently from others? What do you need to
experience to leave satisfied and make it easier for you to "step to the other
side..." when that time comes?
Curiously, various research shows that there are four common characteristics
in those people who, although they have not always been happy in their lives,
are satisfied with the life they have lived. First is the quality of your
relationships. Secondly, a dedication to a higher purpose, to a greater cause.
This often involves serving others, either professionally or as volunteers. The
third factor is to actively and regularly participate in one's own personal
growth. Finally, there is the recognition of one's own code of values and being
faithful to them.
What do you think about the research results? Do you agree?
In your personal journal, I would like you to answer the following questions:
1. What makes you happy?
2. What makes your life meaningful?

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3. Do you have a purpose in your life?
4. If not, what do you have to do in order to find a purpose?
Process
Once you have answered these questions in your personal journal, please grab
your Tarot deck. Look at it slowly and choose those cards that you feel
symbolize the aspects of "a good life" (according to your own personal
definition). When you're done, you put them aside.
Your goal will be to use these cards to create a work of art that represents the
foundation for a life that makes sense to you.
Once you've finished your work, consider how and where to display it. You
can place it in a very visible place to remind yourself every day of your
purpose in life.

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Geometric forms
Aim
With this activity we are going to use geometry as artistic inspiration.

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Background
Look around. Observe how the world we live in is built around curves and
straight lines in space. Shapes can be geometrically simple or complex.
Organized or with a completely free style. All that is needed is some defined
boundaries. Explore the nature of the shapes and objects around you. How do
its lines, curves and angles differ in its composition? Are they soft or rigid
shapes? What shapes are there in the room you are currently in? How do
some shapes overlap each other?
Let's pay attention to the lines in your environment. The lines delimit the
outer and inner limits of each shape. Some are smooth and natural, while
others are bumpy or uneven. Lines can divide space between objects or serve
as decorative ornament. Some lines are thin and delicate. Others are thick and
strong. The lines can be arranged horizontally, vertically, diagonally, in a
curved or irregular pattern...The lines can be continuous or discontinuous.
Grouped in a series or arranged separately…
Shapes and lines coexist together in space. They communicate movement,
stability, emotion, mystery... the function of each object, the shape, the
separation between them and their connections.

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Process
This activity consists of creating two pieces of art. You can work on both
works or simply on the one that identifies with you.
For your first project, choose something to draw on paper. But instead of
using a pen or marker to create the boundaries… use Tarot cards!
As you already know, the four sizes of the Waite-Smith deck will allow you
to give different shapes to compose your frame. Depending on the area of the
paper you are using, you may want smaller or larger letters.
Choose any type of shape you like to create your artwork. But remember that
certain shapes can also have specific symbolic meanings. Consider the
following:
A circle has no beginning or end. It can represent achievement or totality. A
circle can also symbolize movement, harmony and energy as it can roll easily.
Because the planets are round, a circle can indicate something celestial or
spiritual.
A square is similar to a rectangle , both are stable shapes. Its right angles
suggest order and rationality. And because of their strong sides, these two
shapes often indicate connection with the earthly, although if they are tilted,
their energy changes.
The triangle is interesting because if it sits on its base, it can appear
anchored. However, if it is rotated and rests on one of its angles, it represents
dynamic tension. Due to its angular corners, this geometric shape can suggest
movement, action or even aggression. And depending on what we focus on at
its center, it can lead our attention to a particular point.
Once you have decided on a geometric figure, ask yourself if you want it to be
the background of your artwork or, on the contrary, would you prefer it to act
as the centerpiece.
Little by little, go through your Tarot deck and ask yourself: What cards can I
use to create the lines of my figure? What colors, design or specific images do
I want to make up this figure? Do I want to combine different card sizes with
each other? Before you start gluing the different pieces to the paper, explore
possibilities and experiment with different cards. Notice how the energy of
the figure changes simply by changing the cards you are using as boundaries.

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Once you have chosen the cards you are going to use to create your shape and
have glued them to the paper, think about what you want to do inside your
geometric shape. Do you want to fill the inside with more Tarot cards? Or do
you prefer some other type of material to create your artwork? Do you prefer
to simply leave it empty? Think about the composition of your design.
Explore the juxtaposition between the form you have created and the space.
Think about what you would like to communicate with your artwork.
***
For your second piece of art, you are going to use Tarot cards to create one or
more linear patterns. Once again, think about how the different sizes of Tarot
cards provide you with several options for your layout. Would you like to
create a single line or a series of them?
Like geometric figures, lines can also express different types of energy. For
example, horizontal lines can symbolize earthliness and serve as support,
while vertical lines can indicate movement, in the sense in which we move
our eyes up and down. Angular lines, which can have a hard feel, will have a
different energy than curved lines, which appear softer and less aggressive.
Spirals are often found in nature and can symbolize growth, transformation
and evolution. Movement is expressed in any direction and spirals are
connected to birth and death - the endless cycles of life. Due to their
association with Christianity, crosses have come to symbolize spirituality and
healing. The intersection of vertical and horizontal lines in a cross also
suggests balance and unity, as well as the meeting of opposites.
Your artwork can be something very simple, simply consisting of one or more
balanced lines on a white background. Or you can use paint, watercolors,
markers, colored pencils and/or collage to complement your design. You just
have to follow your intuition.

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my compulsion
Aim
In this activity our goal is to obtain relief for a compulsive behavior.

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Backgrou
ndcompulsion is an intense urge to do something that goes against our logic
A
and willpower. Generally, we feel an irresistible impulse over which we have
no control. Compulsive behavior is often triggered by feelings of stress or
anxiety.
For example, you may have a bad day at work, you feel irritated and when
you get home you are able to eat an entire box of cookies by yourself. Or you
can be bored one night, connected to the Internet and suddenly be aware that
you cannot turn off your computer, even though it is late and you logically
know that you have to go to sleep. Some compulsions are serious; For
example, having to check that you have closed the house or car door up to ten
times before leaving; or wash your hands over and over again in order to
“avoid germs.”
We develop compulsions as natural defenses to protect ourselves from the
problems we are experiencing in our lives. At a certain level, compulsions
make sense, since thanks to them, we do not face difficult emotions.
Compulsions play an important role in our mind, distracting us and taking our
attention away from painful thoughts and feelings. However, due to their
dysfunctional nature, compulsions lead to negative consequences in the long
term. And the beliefs on which compulsions are based are distortions of
reality. For example, “if I don't wash my hands, I'm going to get sick and
die”; or “If I allow myself to feel emotions, then I will fall apart and not be
able to get myself together.”
To free ourselves from the need to be participants in a compulsion we must
begin by working from self-awareness. If we are able to pay attention to our
impulses, we can recognize them for what they are: short-term solutions that
actually lead to greater distress.
The key is to stop and think about our own thoughts and feelings, instead of
continuing to resist or ignore them as if they don't exist. Instead of hiding
under the dependency of compulsion to protect ourselves from experiencing
disturbing emotions, we have to ******ebook converter DEMO
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being able to see the impulse as a warning sign that tells us that we need to
pay attention to something important. This means that the moment we start to
feel a compulsive need, we have to stop for a moment to focus our attention
in another, more productive direction.
Now, you are going to answer the following questions in your personal
journal:
1. When I feel stressed or upset, what behavior do I adopt to feel better?
2. Does this behavior give me long-term relief or is it just temporary?
3. Have I ever regretted what I did in response to a feeling of stress or
irritability?

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Process
This activity consists of the creation of four independent works of art. But
first, slowly look at your Tarot deck and choose a card that represents a
compulsion you have. Place the card before you and answer the following
questions, recording the answers in your personal journal:
1. Who are you?
2. What do you feel?
3. Why do you feel that way?
4. What do you need from me? How can I help you?
5. What are you trying to teach me?
When you are ready, I would like you to start working on your first piece of
art, which will represent your compulsion. I leave it to your choice whether or
not to include the Tarot card you have chosen in your artwork. You can create
a work in two or three dimensions.
For your second piece of art, you will address the following questions:
1. What benefits does your compulsion offer you?
2. What are the short-term benefits you get when you give in to it?
In your third work, please think about the price you pay when you give in to
your compulsion. Reflect on your past, present and future... What have been,
are currently and will continue to be the costs of giving in to this seemingly
uncontrollable impulse?
Finally, to create your fourth piece of art, I would like you to imagine how
you would like to respond to the stressful or irritable situations that are
currently triggering your compulsion. What could you do as a healthier
alternative to your current compulsive response? Use your imagination to
create a piece of art that represents a healthier life, that is, a person who does
not have to depend on an unhealthy compulsion. Experiment with what you
feel when representing this new positive energy in a work of art.

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Destruction/Regeneration
Aim
In this activity we are going to create a new Tarot card by destroying some of
the old ones.

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Background
As you know, the twenty-two cards of the major arcana are great archetypes
that have names like "The Strength", "The Sun", "Death", "The Devil" and
"Temperance". But there are other universal concepts that, although
represented in the Waite-Smith deck, are not explicitly named. Take a look at
these two lists for some examples:
• The trickster, the warrior, the bully, the caretaker, the clown, the
wounded child, the magical child, the inner child, the old woman, the
creator, the destroyer, the healer, the mystic, the protector, the rebel, the
shadow , the adventurer, the elder, the wild woman.
• Beauty, ancestors, balance, chaos, adventure, uncertainty, nature,
transformation, harmony, creativity, darkness, alteration, destiny,
fertility, flow, forgiveness, growth , hope, joy, pain, compassion,
vulnerability, integrity, magic, fragility, amazement, mystery.

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Process
Think of an archetype or concept that you would like to represent in a card. Is
there something that you strongly identify with? Something that is so
important to you that you want to express and remember it.
When you have decided, take a piece of cardboard of the size and color you
prefer. The goal is to create a personalized Tarot card. However, instead of
using typical collage materials (magazines, brochures, postcards, calendars...),
you will use Tarot cards as base material. That is, you are going to bring your
idea to life thanks to the images, meaning and creativity already existing in
the Tarot cards themselves. You are going to combine the parts to create a
whole. Part of this activity is destroying some Tarot cards, so... I hope it
doesn't hurt too much!
As you look at the different Tarot cards, keep in mind that the images are
communicating important aspects of their meaning as an archetype. Tarot
cards are already full of rich symbolism. How to combine part of these
powerful images to create a new card?
With limited space to work with (your cardstock), you'll be forced to extract
the essence of each card to create your own. And of course, since you are the
creator of the new card, you can express the meaning of each symbol you
want to include in an implicit or explicit way.
So for this project, I would like you to use Tarot cards as the creation material
for your collage. However, feel free to use other art supplies for
embellishments or to fill in empty space in your design. Let your intuition
guide you as to what you should include in your new Tarot card.
One last important thing. When you design your Tarot card, be sure to leave
enough space, either at the top or at the bottom, to write the name of the new
card. You can write it by hand or with magazine clippings, as you prefer.

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Appendix:
Something for the road...

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Trust and receive
Here I propose one more activity to do with your Tarot cards. In addition to
being a powerful activity, it is a ritual that does not fit into the rest of the
sections of this book.

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Aim
With this activity, what we are going to achieve is clarity on a certain issue.

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Backgrou
nd
"Ambiguous function assignment" is a therapeutic technique that was
developed by psychiatrist and therapist Milton Erickson (1901-1980). This
technique consists of assigning a patient a task or function that they will have
to carry out outside the therapy session. The key is that this task seems simple
and completely independent of the patient's psychological problem, but in
reality, the activity to be carried out is related to the psychological problem
for which the patient is being treated. For example, Erickson could ask his
patients to do the following actions:
• Carry with a hammer for a week.
• Visit the botanical garden.
• Walk up to a certain mountain.
• Studying a cactus in the desert (he lived in Arizona).
Find a specific tree in a park and sit near it for an hour every day for a week.
The idea was to involve the patient in an action that was apparently irrelevant,
but that when carried out, could lead this person to self-knowledge, which
would translate into clear answers when managing the psychological problem
for which I was going to therapy.
Erickson never explicitly explained to his patients what they could gain by
performing these simple tasks he assigned them. Erickson only asked them to
trust. That they had faith. Because if they undertook the simple task he had
given them, then they would find the relief they were looking for. In this
sense, Erickson's purpose was to create a specific environment (outside of
everyday life) in which the patient could find his own answers from within
and on his own .
Of course, these types of therapeutic exercises were not well received by
everyone. However, there are certainly people for whom “assignment of an
ambiguous role” is a transformative experience. Its effectiveness lies in
several factors. A patient, engaged in doing a “mysterious task,” is forced to
interrupt his daily habits and at the same time, his sense of curiosity is
stimulated. The nature of the ritual of performing an action other than habitual
behavior, which is ******ebook converter DEMO Watermarks*******
new and challenging, it can be the catalyst for introspection and self-
reflection.
By relying on healing therapy in this indirect way (using hope, surprise and
discovery) we encounter the paradox that such therapy has the potential to
provoke the thoughts and feelings necessary to find relief.

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Process
This activity is perfect when you need information about something that is
causing us distress. In order to carry out this exercise (or one of your patients,
if you are a therapist), you will have to learn something that is important.
The first step is to choose a card. If you are doing this for yourself, choose a
random card from your Tarot deck. If the activity is aimed at a patient, this
person can choose a random card from the Tarot deck or choose a specific
card, which is related to the problem that is causing the anguish. At this point,
after choosing the card, this person does not have to explain the reasons why
they did so.
The next thing to do is the action or task itself. You'll see below I list a list of
examples of tasks you can do (or suggest to a patient). Remember that the
possibilities are endless. The most important thing is that the task or activity
to be carried out does not have a direct connection with the psychological
problem we are treating and at the same time, that it is an activity that takes us
out of the daily routine. That is, the activity or task to be performed will
suggest a behavior that interrupts our habits and leads us to do something that
we would not normally do.
The result of doing this type of activity (and this is something you should
communicate to your patient), is that at some point in the feedback, much-
needed clarity will emerge. You just have to have faith.
Here I propose some examples of tasks that can get you out of your routine:
• Place the Tarot card you have chosen under your pillow and keep it
there for a week. Every morning when you wake up, take out the card
and stare at it for two minutes (use a stopwatch to measure the time).
• Plan an excursion through the countryside or mountains. Place the letter
in your pocket or backpack. When you reach a particular place, such as
the top, take out the card and take several minutes to look at it and
reflect.
• Go to one of the shopping centers in your city with the menu in

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your pocket or in your bag. Walk the length of the mall twice. Once
you've done this, find a place to sit. Take out the letter and study it for
five minutes. Go back home.
• With the letter in hand, take a walk around your block or neighborhood
and repeat the same route three times. Once you have done this, return
home. Keep your eyes on the card for five minutes. Then go back out
and repeat the same walk three more times.
• Take your letter with you to take a shower. It doesn't matter if it gets
wet. Keep it close to you while you shower. Dry it when you're done.
Repeat it for ten days.
• Find a place away from home and bury your letter. This can be by
digging a small hole in the ground or under a rock. Get it back in
exactly 48 hours.
• Pick a card but don't look at it; keep it upside down. Find the nearest
bus stop. Take the bus and ride it for 5 stops. Keep the letter in your left
hand, at all times, and without looking at it. At the fifth stop, get off the
bus, cross the street and look for the closest stop to take the same bus
route and in the opposite direction, until you reach the starting point.
Continue keeping the card face down. You will be able to watch it only
after sitting on the bus back home.
• Find an appropriate place on your desk or dresser where you can leave
the letter. Next, go outside and look for a rock. Pick it up and bring it
home to place it on top of the letter. Every day for a week, before going
to bed, place your fingers on the stone for two minutes (use a stopwatch
to measure the time).
• Take a small bowl or bowl and place it on your kitchen table. Put the
letter inside, leaning it against one of its walls. Leave it there for five
days.
• Hide your letter somewhere in your house. Get it back ten days later.
• For seven days you will sit and look at your chart before going to bed.
The first night, you will spend one minute with her (use a stopwatch to
measure the time). The second night, two minutes. The third night,
three minutes. And so on.
Tape your letter somewhere visible on your computer. Leave it there for
a certain amount of time (for example, eight days, two weeks, or a
month).
I am in favor of a political-erotic-mystical art, which does more than just sit

on its ass in a museum.
Claes Oldenburg

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Thanks
My sincere thanks to Ginny Hunt, Ardis Gregory, LeeRay Costa and Tallulah
Costa. All my gratitude also to Ruth Ann and Wald Amberstone, for creating
The Readers Studio , a beautiful annual meeting that brings together Tarot
readers from all over the world. And finally, I want to express my deep
gratitude to Teresa Reed, for her support and encouragement.
And Gloria Pérez Triguero for her efforts and passion for this project.

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About the Author
Andy Matzner is a social worker and psychotherapist. He lives in the
southwest of the state of Virginia, in the United States.
He is the author of The Tarot Activity Book: A Collection of Creative and
Therapeutic Ideas for the Cards (2013); Everyone Has a Story: Using the
Hero's Journey and Narrative Therapy to Reframe the Struggle of Mental
Illness (2015); and Recovery from Addictions and Compulsive Behavior: A
Journaling-Based Guide to Becoming Your Best Self and Having a Life Worth
Living (2017).
Contact : [email protected]

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TARoT ACTIVITY

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All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in

Copyright © 2013, Andy Matzner

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And you will wonder how it occurred to me to combine Tarot, artistic

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"Black and white thinking" is believing that something is completely good or

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