John Everett Millais. ‘Mariana’. 1850-01.

Lesson is Strength & Compassion: The Fool learns to trust herself and to develop confidence and inner strength. She realizes that true strength is found in gentleness, compassion and humility.

Strength coincides with the zodiac sign of Leo, represented in the Strength card by the symbol of the lion as the beast within (our shadow, or darker side). Leo governs the spine, back, solar plexus (upper stomach and lower rib area) and the heart.

Number Associations: 11, 2 (11 = 1 + 1 = 2)

Physical Body Associations: Strength is associated with strength of mind and spirit. Any, and all, parts of the body may be effected.

Upright Strength’s Energy Wellness Advice

Strength represents the self-confidence and inner strength to deal with obstacles through the power of self-will, especially over illness, trauma or pain.

It is about true conviction and the use of wisdom. It is not about brute force, but about the force of gentleness, morality, patience, kindness and forgiveness. It is strength of character vs. physical force.

You have come through some terribly severe trials and you have been triumphant. Your position may be stronger at this time and you are able to control someone from pushing you around.

Use your determination and integrity to let others know who you are.

Your animal passions may now be channeled toward success. The beast within you has been tamed for the moment. You feel rapport with your instinctive nature, your shadow side.

Strength signifies spiritual strength overcoming physical strength. You are facing the enemy with courage. Now you will always have this courage within yourself.

Strength also suggests that you may experience recovery, good or better health, or new vitality.

You may be resisting a temptation or giving up addictions (food, drug, alcohol, caffeine, sex, etc.) at this time in your life or may be considering a new exercise program.

The Strength card denotes success in whatever decisions you make or actions you take.

Reversed Strength’s Energy Wellness Advice

Although Strength is not a card of physical or muscular strength, a reversed Strength may be the exception and physical strength may be an issue. Strive for strength of mind and spirit through physical exercise, nutrition and diet.

Something or someone may have you feeling vulnerable or unable to cope with the currant situation. You may feel that you can’t go on or that you don’t have the strength, courage, power or will to see something through. To say you are overwhelmed may be an understatement.

Is someone bullying you? Do you feel you have little control over your mind or body?

You may be weak, frail, sick or suffering in some way physically or may be in contact with those who are. Immune problems may be an issue.

It may be that you just lack energy, feel drained or have some personal weakness to deal with. If so, what is causing you to lose your energy? Do you need to take better care of yourself? Are negative emotions (anger, resentment, fear, etc.) taking a toll on your health? Is there a codependency issue?

Occasionally, reversed Strength represents someone who has allowed animal passions to dominate. These people may become sex addicts who prefer to dominate others sexually. Perhaps it is just a matter of an unbalanced sex life.

Do you see any evidence of the abuse of power anywhere? You may be facing a test of endurance.

The Captains Lady's Energy Wellness Recommendations

Often our own strength is undermined by the relationships we keep with ourselves and others. If we don't have positive relationships, get enough sleep, refrain from placing negative things into and onto our bodies (and minds) and find ways of increasing our self-esteem we can find ourselves lacking in energy, having back aches and stomach problems, and may even be prone to heart disease. I recommend the following pages for increasing your strength.

The 'Building Self-Esteem Energy Guide' in 'Dealing With Negativity'.

The 'Aura Energy Self-Test' for determining your personality strengths and weaknesses.

If you are experiencing back or stomach pain, visit 'Stress Syndrome Management'. Refer to 'IBS' and 'Chronic Pain'.

Note: In some decks, Strength and Justice are in reversed positions.

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The Captains Lady

Old World Energy Wellness!

John Everett Millais. ‘Mariana’. 1850-01.

Lesson is Strength & Compassion: The Fool learns to trust herself and to develop confidence and inner strength. She realizes that true strength is found in gentleness, compassion and humility.