The Six of Wands is a card that represents victory,
Success,
And the ensuing recognition.
It symbolises leadership,
Self-esteem,
And the ability to direct our energy towards well-defined goals and aspirations.
This card also embodies the feeling of mastery and achievement from overcoming challenges.
Yet,
Like all symbols,
It carries a shadow side that can materialise as vanity,
Narcissism,
Or the misuse of power.
In this active imagination exercise,
We will engage with the energies of the Six of Wands,
Aiming to understand how we can channel its positive attributes,
While acknowledging and managing its potential downsides.
Find a quiet and comfortable place where you won't be disturbed,
Close your eyes,
And take a couple of deep breaths,
Allowing your mind and body to relax naturally.
Keep your attention on the breath for now.
If at any point you do get distracted,
Simply bring the attention back to the exercise.
Now imagine yourself standing on a grand stage,
Where a celebration is taking place.
You stand in the spotlight,
As the central figure,
Encircled by an exuberant crowd.
In your hands,
You hold a wand,
A symbol of your achievements and influence.
Take a moment to examine this wand more closely,
Its texture,
Its weight,
Its appearance.
Allow yourself to absorb the admiration and positive energy radiating from the crowd.
How does it feel to be the centre of their attention?
During this moment,
Reflect on a recent achievement or success.
Remember the journey,
The challenges you overcame,
And the triumphant feeling of reaching your goal.
Now observe your feelings and reactions in this moment of recognition.
How does it feel to be acknowledged and celebrated?
Does this enhance your confidence,
Or does it stir any discomfort within you?
As you scan the crowd,
You notice a figure who stands apart,
Not applauding,
But observing you calmly.
This figure represents your reflective self,
Your internal guide.
Invite this figure to join you on stage.
Now,
You're going to engage in a conversation with this figure,
And ask them a series of questions.
And as you do,
Rather than thinking of an answer,
Simply ask the questions and listen to how they respond.
What lessons have I learned from my triumphs?
How can I apply these successes to contribute to others?
How can I prevent succumbing to vanity and misuse of power?
How can I preserve my humility and compassion amidst success?
The figure now presents you with a symbol,
A representation of the equilibrium between success and humility.
Spend some time examining it.
Feel its texture.
Observe its form.
And notice how it resonates with you.
Take a moment to thank the figure for their insights and their gift before leaving the stage.
Just bring your attention back to the room now.
Noticing any sounds or sensations.
Take a deep breath.
And opening your eyes again in your own time.
