Karmic Tarot Message | Learn how to slow down and practice self-control.

Your Arcana Message For Today

Learn how to slow down and practice self-control.

The Message of the Day

Man is by nature an instinctive being. However, it is not wise for a man to always act based on his impulses. This message is indicated in the tarot card of the day—The Hanged Man. Just as the name of the card suggests, The Hanged Man reveals a young lad hanging in a reversed manner from a T-shaped tree. This card symbolizes patience, contemplating, and taking a pause.

The message for today urges us to embody the qualities exhibited in The Hanged Man. You might be currently in a situation where you should not be rushing the process of achieving your endeavors. Whether this pursuit may refer to financial stability, losing weight, or just getting through the weekday, it is necessary to take a break every once in a while to avoid your gas tank being depleted.

You might be tempted to just step on the gas and go full throttle—whether literally or figuratively, this approach should be used properly. You wouldn't apply maximum force on the gas pedal at all times when you’re driving a vehicle, right? Apart from being excessively unnecessary, it is also hazardous both for the car, yourself, and other people to go at full speed continuously. Just like how you would not do this when driving a car, you should also tread cautiously when it comes to everyday decisions. Whether it's as trivial as what to eat for lunch or as significant as getting insurance, these things are not to be taken lightly since they will affect your future to a certain extent.

The Tarot Card

In the card, a boy is shown suspended in the air with his right foot tied to the wooden cross. He is hanged not as a form of punishment or by chance, but because of his own volition. You can see this judging by his facial expression and body language—full of composure despite the rather uncomfortable position he is in. In addition, his other foot is unrestricted and bending his left leg behind his right leg. It may not look like the man is doing anything, but he is deep in thought while he is in temporary surrender. His external environment may be chaotic at the moment—and so, he is letting things be as he is waiting for the storm to pass.

Comparing this to driving a car, traffic jams, engine breakdown, and flat tires are all unfavorable circumstances that can destroy our plans. Although devising both preventive and countermeasures are lifesavers for these situations, there is no guarantee you can avoid them every time. When that dreaded moment happens, sometimes all you can do is to put up with it just until the predicament is over. The Hanged Man teaches us the value of tolerance when used moderately.

The Main Message

Discernment is needed for both safe driving and life navigation in general. You constantly modify the car speed according to your preferences. The duration and the level of speed mostly rely on the accelerator, otherwise known as the gas pedal. Abiding by the driving and traffic rules is also one thing to take into consideration when it comes to speeding up the vehicle. Getting a ticket for various driving violations like speeding is the most probable outcome if you blindly follow your impulses without any regard for the law.

Similarly, our past decisions have led us to our current situation. Although certain options offer high rewards yet also require high effort and delayed fulfillment, we often turn to ones that only provide fleeting satisfaction so long as it does not demand putting in too much work. Continuously stepping on the gas pedal fueled by your impulses does more harm than good. Partying all night the night before exams and spending all your allowance or salary on non-essential items–these are some unhealthy habits that call for self-control. We have our respective vices, although the degree can vary for each individual. While ethical, morally, and legally unacceptable vices typically include alcohol addiction and drug abuse, there are plenty of other habits that have an impact just as bad as those previously mentioned. Although fines and penalties for driving recklessly are not applicable in real life, you will still receive corresponding consequences for your irresponsible actions.

Today’s Tip

This is your reminder that anything in excess is considered a vice—whether it’s being too complacent at work or being a workaholic. If you belong in the first group, make small steps in changing your outlook when it comes to your job or any other aspect of your life. Instead of complaining that things are just not enough, you can divert your mindset by being more grateful. You can also proceed with devising plans, for instance getting a side hustle along with managing your salary, to achieve a financially stable life.

As for those who belong in the second group, these individuals can immensely benefit from loosening up. Find your way as to how you can best relax. It can be as simple as taking a 5-minute break the moment you notice your productivity is slipping off the tracks. If you are worrying that you are only wasting time by taking a break, depriving yourself of such a tiny moment is a warning that you tend not taking care of yourself. It is akin to continuing driving despite the driver being sleepy or any other condition that makes them unfit to maneuver the vehicle.

Just like how these people can benefit from pulling over to catch up some sleep, you, too, should step on the brake for a moment. Learn how to gradually let go of the gas pedal. Refill your gas tank by drinking coffee and taking snacks rich in carbs to boost your focus and energy. Getting tired in the middle of an 8-hour shift despite having enough amount of sleep can still happen.

This is just one of the instances where we see ourselves in a sticky situation. During these times, it is best to accept that there are things beyond your control. In contrast, being mindful of your speed and making sure you don’t run out of gas can also be applied in real-life situations—in essence, remember to practice discernment and limit your impulses.