The Chariot is a card that represents emotions,
The inner world,
Family,
Home and public persona.
It is associated with the zodiac sign of Cancer,
The cardinal water sign,
Known for its emotional depth and nurturing qualities.
In this exercise,
We will use active imagination to explore the energy of the Chariot and gain insights into these aspects of your inner world.
So find a quiet and comfortable place to sit or lie down,
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.
And now,
Imagine yourself in a serene and expansive landscape,
Representing your inner world and emotional realm.
Notice the colours,
Sounds and scents around you.
Take a moment to immerse yourself in this environment.
As you explore this inner landscape,
You notice a grand chariot coming into view.
Observe the chariot more closely,
Noting its construction,
Any colours or any symbols that captivate your attention.
Harnessed to the chariot are two creatures.
These creatures may represent conflicting needs,
Expectations or pressures on you.
Take some time to examine these two creatures,
Noticing their appearance,
Colours and any unique characteristics they possess.
In what ways are they similar?
In what ways are they different?
Now imagine yourself climbing aboard and taking position as the charioteer.
As you do,
You become aware of a protective armour gradually forming around your body.
Take a moment to explore the appearance of the armour,
Its material,
Colour and texture.
Notice how it feels on the body.
Are there any symbols or markings it carries?
As you sit there in the chariot,
You feel a sense of restlessness to move forward.
But there is a resistance.
The creatures seem hesitant to move.
You are going to ask yourself some questions.
What is holding me back from going where I need to go?
What fears,
Attachments or habits do I need to overcome?
As you take the reins firmly in your hands and prepare to move,
You give a specific instruction to the creatures,
Guiding them to begin moving forward.
What instruction do you have for the creatures?
Observe how the creatures respond to your instruction.
Notice if their movement becomes smoother and more congruent,
Or if there is still some resistance or conflict present.
As the chariot moves forward,
You feel its momentum building.
Look out at the changing landscape around you.
How does the scene around you begin to shift and transform?
Look down at the armour you are wearing.
How does it begin to change and transform?
Thank the creatures and express gratitude for the experience and the insights gained during this exercise.
As you let go of any image of the chariots and the creatures,
Remember to bring the energy and insights gained with you as you go about your daily life.
So just bring your attention back to the room now,
Noticing any sounds or sensations,
Taking a deep breath,
And in your own time,
Opening your eyes again.
