Tarot, Psychology & DSM – “Empress”

In my May 2020 weblog post I started this series on my current perceptions about the connection between certain Major Arcana cards, psychological challenges, and the DSM. I encourage you to review that post for my introduction to this series.

In the first post in this series we looked at the “IV Emperor” and possible diagnostic characteristics based on the DSM. A simple concept I presented is that his is a Yang or “masculine” energy card with an outward focus.

As you might imagine, “III The Empress” is the “feminine”, the Yin, to the “masculine” Yang energy, so the focus in inward.

All power and emotions are internalized, which can lead to self-esteem and lack of empowerment issues as challenges. In a world that values outward expression and achievement, the feminine traits of introspection and identity with one’s inner powers are often ignored or marginalized by the cultural or collective consciousness.

Here are some of the dis-eases that can manifest when this feminine energy is arrested in such a way.

• Sensual / sexual over-indulgence
• Poor health, low energy
• Dysmorphia/eating disorders: Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia, Binge Eating, Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
• Smother-mother attachment style

For an introduction to “Eating Disorders” I recommend this link.

In essence, the Empress is archetypally the mother who gives unconditionally to others. If her battery is drained from always putting others first, her energy runs down and she sinks into ill health and its various coping mechanisms.

I look forward to sharing future posts highlighting other Major Arcana Tarot cards. Please feel free to ask questions or add comments, below.

If you are interested in learning more about this spiritual opportunity vs. challenge way of viewing Tarot cards, please purchase my recorded class, Psychological Challenges in Tarot’s Major Trumps.

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