VIII. Strength

* Before I start, in some decks(mostly older) the Strength card was at number 11, however I like it at 8 with the double balance of inner and outer strength.

Strength

This card symbolizes not only outer strength, but control over your emotions. With strength, you can master your self control and handle anything! Its similar to the Chariot card however it usually deals with inner strength and overcoming your internal battles and stuggles in order to handle the outside ones! Time to overcome the fears and anxieties so you can be successful! At one point this card was refered as Fortitude. In the illustrations, a woman is able to tame a ferocious lion, showcasing that gentleness and guidance can persevere.

Basic Associations:

Colors: Red, Orange, Yellow

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Element: Fire

Diety: Athena, Brigid, Iris, Dagda, Lugh

Other: The Sun, Lions, Roses

UPRIGHT- When this card appears upright, it usually means there will be some obstacles that you will have to control your inner strength and emotions to overcome. Take the time you need but be active about it! When you are able to look at yourself and see your true potential you will be able to take on anything!

-Inner Strength, Patientence, Courage, Control, Confidence, Taming, Compassion, Focus, and Influence.

REVERSED- When reversed it doesnt neccesarily mean you are not strong enough to overcome the situations you are in, but more so you have not been tapping into your full inner strength's potential. You have all that you need, don't lose sight of it!

-Self Doubt, Lack of Self Esteem and Confidence, Weakness, Insecurity, Laziness, Vulnerable, Feeling Inadequete.

LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS

UPRIGHT- When Strength appears during a love spread, it may mean either a leo is coming into your life or someone else since your confidence is shining through. If this new person seems a little too wild, try to coax them in the right direction, but remember you can not change a person just inspire them. If you have been having some struggles in your relationship and this card appears it may mean that those struggles have brought you two closer together.

REVERSED- Listen, you will not be single forever! Strength reversed lets you know that everything you have to offer (great and not so great) is right there inside of you, tap in and use your strengths. If you are in a relationship currently this may mean there are some obstacles coming but not enough to break you if you both use your communication skills and control your emotions.

CAREER & FINANCES

UPRIGHT- When strength shows up while dealing with work or money, it is trying to tell you that you have all the tools and requirements to make your dream come true. Tap into that and push forward towards those goals you have! You may have been overlooked by your peers, so make yourself noticed!

REVERSED- When this card comes up reversed, it means you may have been ignoring your natural strengths and that may be why you feel behind. You have the potential to do great things and make it far in what ever you want but not if you arent trying or ignoring your capabilities.

HEALTH

UPRIGHT- Strength is a great card to get while dealing with health. It usually means things are coming into balance and its a great time to improve your habits!

REVERSED- When reversed, strength means your health and spiritual well being are coming back into balance. Switch up some routines to get rid of that negative energy and put your energy into positive things. Being happy and balanced does miracles when it comes to your health.

SPIRITUALITY

UPRIGHT- What a great card for spirituality. This card upright usually means your connection with your higher self is growing! This connection is what will help you brig balance and control with your emotions and spirit!

REVERSED-When reversed, it almost means the opposite. That you already have a great connection to spirit and your higher self, yet you have been ignoring the signs and not using your skills to connect. Dig deep and listen to your intuition!

Similar to the Chariot, The Strength card brings success and great outcomes if you control your inner emotions and keep yourself determined and on track!