MAJOR ARCANA III
The Empress Meaning
The Empress
Upright
AbundanceLoveNurturing
What you have poured your love into is beginning to bloom.
Star words: “The love you have given will bear fruit”
Reversed
Giving too muchFeeling unfulfilled
As much as you give to others, turn some of that kindness toward yourself.
Star words: “Begin by filling your own cup”
When The Empress appears in a Love reading
Upright
Your soft charm is naturally drawing people in. Enjoy wearing what you love, and meet others just as your comfortable self.
Reversed
You may be tired from giving so much to the other person. Before thinking of what you want to do for them, consider what you would like for yourself, too.
When The Empress appears in a Work reading
Upright
The work you have tended with care is nearing its harvest. Accept the results fully, and share your thanks with everyone involved.
Reversed
You seem to be carrying other people's share as well, and losing your breathing room. Find one thing you can hand off, and gently let it go.
When The Empress appears in a Relationships reading
Upright
Your embracing warmth is a support to the people around you. Why not share your feelings in a warm, personal way, like a home-cooked meal or a handwritten note?
Reversed
Your caring nature may sometimes feel like a weight to others. Try thinking of watching over them as another form of love.
When The Empress appears in a Yourself reading
Upright
This is a time to savor the feeling of a full heart and a cared-for body. Why not bring one seasonal flower or food into your days?
Reversed
The cup of your heart seems a little dry. Today, why not make yourself a cup of tea, just for you and no one else?
Reading it in the past, present and future positions
In a three-card reading, the same card can be understood differently depending on the position where it appears.
In the past position
UprightYou have poured love generously into people and things. That warmth has surely taken root in the people around you.
ReversedPerhaps you gave so much to others that you felt empty inside. It shows how deep your kindness runs.
In the present position
UprightRight now, your heart and your daily life can easily feel full. You seem able to openly savor good food and the things that bring you comfort.
ReversedRight now, a feeling of not being quite fulfilled seems to be peeking through. This may be a time to care for yourself before caring for others.
In the future position
UprightWhat you have nurtured seems ready to bloom richly. If you make room to receive, the joy may keep spreading.
ReversedThe more you cherish yourself, the more abundance may return to your heart. Try starting with a small treat for yourself.
What might this card be trying to tell you right now?
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