Personal power is a concept many of us struggle with, especially if we come from a background of a abuse and trauma. We may not have been allowed to feel powerful by abusive family members or we may have been raised in a religion that actively disempowers its followers. How does saying ‘I am powerful’ out loud make you feel? If there is any doubt or hesitation, today’s pick-a-pile reading is for you.
- Jump to Personal Power Pick-a-Pile Reading 1
- Jump to Personal Power Pick-a-Pile Reading 2
- Jump to Personal Power Pick-a-Pile Reading 3
For all three readings, we are working with the Waite Smith Tarot. As always, only take what resonates and leave the rest.
Developing a Grounded and Healthy Sense of Personal Power as an Adult
“The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.”
~Alice Walker.
Understanding the Impact of Childhood Abuse, Trauma, and CPTSD
Childhood abuse and trauma, especially when leading to Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), can profoundly affect an individual’s sense of self and personal power. Survivors often struggle with dissociation, a coping mechanism where the mind detaches from the present moment to protect itself from overwhelming pain. This can create a fragmented sense of self, making it hard to establish and maintain boundaries, a cornerstone of personal power.
Dissociation and Its Effects on the Sense of Self
Dissociation can make trauma victims feel disconnected from their bodies, emotions, and identities. This disconnection hampers the development of a cohesive sense of self, leading to feelings of helplessness and a lack of personal power. Survivors may feel as if they are observing their lives from the outside rather than actively participating in them.
Boundary Issues Stemming from Trauma
One of the significant challenges for those with CPTSD is boundary setting. Trauma survivors often have blurred boundaries because their personal boundaries were repeatedly violated during their formative years. This can result in difficulties asserting themselves, saying no, or protecting their space, making them vulnerable to further exploitation.
Steps to Develop a Healthy Sense of Personal Power
- Therapeutic Support:
Seeking professional help is a crucial step. Therapies like Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Somatic Experiencing can work specifically on trauma and dissociation. - Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques:
Regular mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing, meditation, and grounding exercises, can help trauma survivors reconnect with their bodies and the present moment. These practices foster a greater sense of personal agency and self-awareness. - Establishing Boundaries:
Learning to set and maintain healthy boundaries is essential. This can be practiced through assertiveness training and boundary-setting exercises. It’s helpful to start with small boundaries and gradually build up to more challenging ones. - Self-Compassion and Self-Care:
Developing self-compassion involves nurturing a kind and understanding relationship with oneself. Self-care routines that address physical, emotional, and mental well-being are vital for long-term healing and self-empowerment. - Journaling and Self-Reflection:
Keeping a journal can help survivors articulate their feelings and thought processes, aiding in understanding and integrating their experiences. Reflecting on personal growth and setbacks also enhances self-awareness and personal power.
Further Steps for Self-Empowerment
- Education and Resources:
Educating oneself about CPTSD and its effects can provide a sense of control and understanding. Books like The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk and Complex PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving by Pete Walker are valuable resources. - Building Support Networks:
Surrounding oneself with a supportive community, whether through support groups or trusted friends and family, can significantly reinforce the journey toward self-discovery and empowerment.
By taking these steps and using available resources, in addition to seeking professional help, trauma survivors can gradually build a grounded and healthy sense of personal power.
Pile 1
1. Identify Internal Conflicts – The Empress
The Empress card represents abundance, creativity, and nurturing energy. When identifying internal conflicts, The Empress suggests that there might be a struggle with embracing your creative power and nurturing aspects of yourself. You may be experiencing a disconnection from your inner creativity or feeling overwhelmed by the responsibilities of nurturing others at the expense of your own needs. This internal conflict can leave you feeling unfulfilled and disconnected from your true self.
2. Confront Limiting Beliefs – Ace of Wands
The Ace of Wands signifies new beginnings, inspiration, and potential for growth. It encourages you to confront limiting beliefs that are holding you back from pursuing your passions and dreams. This card suggests that you may have hidden doubts about your ability to succeed or unleash your creative potential. By recognising and challenging these limiting beliefs, you open yourself up to new opportunities and the possibility of a vibrant, inspired life.
3. Explore the Subconscious – 6 of Wands
The 6 of Wands represents victory, recognition, and self-confidence. Exploring the subconscious with this card indicates that there are hidden aspects of your psyche that crave acknowledgment and validation. You may have past achievements or talents that you have not fully recognised or celebrated. Alternatively, you may have projected a ‘Golden Shadow‘ on others whom you perceive as more successful than yourself. By bringing these elements to light and giving yourself credit for your successes, you can boost your self-esteem and reinforce your sense of personal power.
4. Next Step on the Path to Empowerment – 2 of Wands
The 2 of Wands signifies planning, decision-making, and looking towards the future. As the next step on your path to empowerment, this card suggests that it is time to take initiative and make concrete plans for your future. Reflect on where you want to go and what actions you need to take to get there. Embrace a proactive approach, and do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone to pursue your goals. With careful planning and a clear vision, you can move forward with confidence and determination.
Pile 2
1. Identify Internal Conflicts – Knight of Wands
The Knight of Wands symbolises adventure, enthusiasm, and impulsivity. When identifying internal conflicts, this card suggests a struggle with balancing your passionate drive for action with the need for thoughtful deliberation. You might find yourself jumping into new ventures without adequate planning, leading to inconsistencies and frustrations. Understanding this internal battle can help you cultivate a more balanced approach to pursuing your goals.
2. Confront Limiting Beliefs – 4 of Cups
The 4 of Cups represents contemplation, dissatisfaction, and missed opportunities. It encourages you to confront limiting beliefs that keep you stuck in a state of apathy or discontent. You may be focused on what you lack rather than recognising new opportunities that are presenting themselves. By shifting your perspective and embracing gratitude, you can overcome these limiting beliefs and open yourself up to new possibilities.
3. Explore the Subconscious – Justice
The Justice card reflects balance, fairness, and truth. Exploring the subconscious with this card reveals a deep-seated desire for harmony and equilibrium in your life. It suggests that unresolved issues related to fairness or past injustices may be influencing your subconscious fears and motivations. By acknowledging and addressing these hidden concerns, you can work toward achieving a sense of inner balance and integrity.
4. Next Step on the Path to Empowerment – Ace of Swords
The Ace of Swords signifies clarity, breakthroughs, and powerful new ideas. As the next step on your path to empowerment, this card urges you to embrace a clear, decisive mindset. It’s time to cut through confusion and doubt with sharp focus and intellect. Embrace new insights and innovative thinking to strategise your future moves. With the Ace of Swords guiding you, you can make informed decisions and boldly pursue your true path.
Pile 3
1. Identify Internal Conflicts – 8 of Swords
The 8 of Swords represents restriction, limitation, and feeling trapped. When identifying internal conflicts, this card suggests that you may be experiencing a sense of mental entrapment or self-imposed limitations. There could be fears or doubts that are preventing you from pursuing your desires or making decisions. Recognising these internal barriers is the first step towards overcoming them and regaining a sense of freedom and personal power.
2. Confront Limiting Beliefs – Queen of Cups
The Queen of Cups symbolises intuition, emotional depth, and compassion. This card encourages you to confront limiting beliefs that may stem from emotional insecurities or hypersensitivity. You might hold back your feelings or fear vulnerability, believing it to be a sign of weakness. However, embracing your emotional depth and trusting your intuition can empower you to connect deeply with yourself and others, transforming these perceived limitations into strengths.
3. Explore the Subconscious – 5 of Wands
The 5 of Wands represents conflict, competition, and scattered energy. Exploring the subconscious with this card indicates underlying tensions and unresolved conflicts that might be impacting your mental state. These could manifest as internal struggles or external competition that distracts you from your goals. By acknowledging and addressing these conflicts, you can better understand your motivations and redirect your energy towards constructive and harmonious pursuits.
4. Next Step on the Path to Empowerment – The High Priestess
The High Priestess embodies wisdom, intuition, and hidden knowledge. As the next step on your path to empowerment, this card suggests that it is time to trust your inner knowing and seek deeper understanding. Embrace silence and reflection to uncover hidden truths and insights. By tapping into your intuitive wisdom, you can make informed decisions and navigate your path with clarity and confidence. The High Priestess encourages you to trust the process and recognise the power of your inner guidance.
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