Take a journey back to 2015 with me:
The scene opens on Danielle and her husband, Earl, as she nervously tells him that she is taking a Reiki training.
Danielle: I know this is kind of weird but it feels right to me. Does it bother you that I am getting into yoga and Reiki?
Earl: No. <shrug>
Danielle: Are you sure? I don't want you to think I'm crazy or anything.
Earl: <thinks for a moment> It doesn't bother me. I think I'm ok with everything other than those cards. If you start working with cards, I think that would be crossing a line for me.
Umm...
Well, this is awkward.
I am here to admit that I currently have a collection of oracle cards. That I use. Every day. In front of Earl. Who, incredulously, still loves me and hasn't walked out the door due to flagrant card use.
Here's an introduction to what they are, how to use them, and why I decided to cross that line.
Oracle Cards: What They Are
Oracle cards are decks of cards that have various beautiful artwork and/or messages on them. That's it! Simple as that.
There are a variety of oracle cards. You can find decks that follow specific themes or types of imagery. For example, you might choose a deck about guardian angels, yoga poses, crystals, or positive affirmations. There is literally a deck for every type of person.
My favorite thing about oracle cards is that they all have a positive meaning. Any time you pull a card, there will be a supportive message attached to it. You can't go wrong. (Good vibes only!)
How to Use Oracle Cards
At its simplest, you will take the deck of cards, shuffle them while thinking about a question or situation on which you want guidance, and then pull one card. Use the message and imagery of the card to gain some insight into the situation.
Some people will pull a card in the morning before their day starts. They simply say to themselves, "What message do I need to carry with me today?" Then, they pull a card and take that message with them into the day.
Each deck will come with a booklet with additional information. Within that, many authors offer specific ways to pull more than one card at a time. You can also look up card spreads online and expand your use of the cards in that way.
Why I Crossed the Line
So we know what they are and how to use them. The big question is: WHY would you choose to use oracle cards? What is the benefit? Why would I disregard my husband's opinion and now own not just one but a zillion oracle decks?
I thought you'd never ask.
Reason #1
People start using oracle cards for a few different reasons. For some, it is simply about positive messages. They enjoy looking at the cards and pulling random affirmations. It is a source of joy for them and they take it no further than that.
Reason #2
For other people, using oracle cards is a way for them to tune into their intuition. I have found oracle cards to be a fantastic tool for this purpose. You shuffle the deck until your intuition nudges you to stop. You choose the card that your intuition pulls you towards. These are concrete way to practice your intuition. Whatever we practice becomes stronger. The oracle cards are very positive and pleasant so this is a fun way to work with intuition.
Reason #3
Oracle cards can also become a conduit for communication between you and your spirit guides. This combines intuition (which is internal) with psychic ability (which directs intuition outwards - external). It gives a way for spirit guides to send messages to you. Your intuition points you towards the message that your guide wants you to hear. In this way, the oracle cards are a wonderful tool to use in spiritual growth.
The reason I use cards is a combination of all three. Sometimes, I just want a positive message. I do have a daily routine of pulling a few cards in the morning to give my day some direction and purpose.ย They make me feel happy while also allowing me practice with intuition and connection to spirit guides and spiritual growth.
The really is no downside...other than...once you have one deck, you will want more. And then more. But that's a topic for another time.ย
Enjoy the cards!
Your conversation with Earl brought a wide smile.. almost a chuckle.
My hesitancy is concern that I would become so attached to them that I will have difficulty cultivating connection with guardians and intuition without the cards.
My marriage resonates with this so much ๐ ๐ we are truly kindred spirits!