The process of interpreting tarot cards for personal guidance and self-reflection is a practice rooted in symbolism and intuition. It involves selecting cards from a shuffled deck and arranging them in a specific pattern, known as a spread, to address a particular question or explore a situation. Each card’s imagery and associated meanings provide potential insights into the querent’s circumstances and possible future paths. For example, drawing “The Lovers” card might indicate a significant relationship or a crucial decision involving values and alignment.
Undertaking this exploration offers a unique opportunity for introspection and heightened self-awareness. It can provide clarity during times of uncertainty, foster a deeper understanding of personal motivations and patterns, and encourage proactive engagement with one’s life journey. Historically, this method has served as a tool for personal reflection and contemplation across various cultures, offering individuals a framework for understanding their inner landscape and navigating life’s complexities.
Understanding the necessary steps to approach a personal reading involves preparing the environment, formulating clear questions, selecting and interpreting the cards, and synthesizing the information received. Subsequent sections will detail these critical components, providing a structured approach to gaining meaningful insights from this practice.
1. Quiet environment
A conducive atmosphere is paramount to effective self-guided tarot interpretation. The absence of external disturbances, both auditory and visual, directly influences the ability to concentrate and connect with the subtle nuances of the cards. A frenetic or chaotic setting can impede the intuitive process, leading to misinterpretations and diluted insights. The selection of a serene space, free from interruptions, establishes a foundation for focused introspection, allowing for a clearer reception of symbolic meanings. For instance, attempting this practice in a bustling coffee shop would likely yield less accurate results than undertaking it in a quiet room dedicated to reflection.
The impact of environmental noise extends beyond mere distraction; it affects the mental state. Elevated levels of sensory input trigger the release of stress hormones, impairing cognitive function and hindering the capacity for symbolic thought. Conversely, a calm environment promotes a state of relaxation and receptivity, facilitating the access of subconscious insights. Furthermore, minimizing digital distractions, such as silencing notifications on electronic devices, contributes to a focused and undistracted mental landscape, essential for fostering a deeper connection with the cards and one’s own intuition.
In summation, creating a tranquil and undisturbed environment is not merely a preliminary step, but an integral component of the entire process. It directly influences the clarity of interpretation and the depth of personal understanding. Prioritizing this aspect of the experience significantly enhances the potential for meaningful self-discovery, mitigating the challenges posed by external stimuli and fostering a more profound connection with the symbolic language of the cards.
2. Clear question
The formulation of a precise and well-defined question is a foundational element in executing a personal tarot reading. A vague or ambiguous inquiry yields correspondingly ambiguous responses, hindering the acquisition of actionable insights. The tarot, as a system of symbolic representation, reflects the clarity of the question posed. A diffused query results in a diffuse interpretation, diminishing the value of the exercise. Conversely, a specific question provides a focal point for the cards’ symbolism, enabling a more directed and relevant reading. For instance, asking “What is my overall life path?” offers little discernible direction compared to asking “What steps can be taken to improve professional satisfaction in the next six months?” The latter allows for a more targeted and practical interpretation.
The impact of a clear question extends beyond the immediate interpretation of the cards; it shapes the entire process. A well-defined question prompts a more focused intention, influencing card selection and the subsequent analysis. It also facilitates a more nuanced understanding of the card combinations within a given spread. Without a clear objective, the reading may become a meandering exploration of generalities, lacking the precision necessary for effective decision-making or self-awareness. Consider the difference between asking “Will I find love?” and “What internal obstacles prevent me from forming a fulfilling romantic relationship?” The former is passive and open-ended, while the latter encourages active self-reflection and identifies potential areas for personal growth.
In summary, the clarity of the initial question directly affects the utility of a personal tarot reading. A precise and targeted inquiry allows for a focused interpretation, facilitates a deeper understanding of the cards’ symbolism, and promotes actionable insights. The formulation of the question represents the initial investment in the process, directly influencing the return on that investment in terms of self-knowledge and personal growth. Disregarding this element compromises the efficacy of the entire endeavor, rendering the reading less insightful and less valuable as a tool for self-discovery.
3. Intention setting
The establishment of a clear intention acts as a crucial precursor to a personal tarot reading. It frames the session, directing the flow of energy and shaping the interpretation of the cards. Without a defined intention, the reading can become unfocused, leading to generalized insights lacking specific relevance to the querent’s needs.
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Focusing the Inquiry
Intention setting concentrates the reading on a specific area of concern or inquiry. It moves beyond a broad question, defining the precise scope of exploration. For example, instead of merely seeking general career advice, the intention might be to uncover potential obstacles to a specific career advancement. This focused approach increases the likelihood of receiving targeted and actionable information.
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Energy Alignment
Intention influences the energetic alignment between the individual and the cards. By consciously stating the desired outcome of the reading, an individual aligns their energy with the intention, creating a clearer channel for intuitive guidance. This energetic alignment facilitates a deeper connection with the symbolism of the cards and enhances the accuracy of their interpretation.
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Ethical Considerations
Setting a positive and ethical intention is paramount. Using the reading for manipulative or harmful purposes compromises its integrity and can lead to inaccurate or distorted results. A responsible intention focuses on personal growth, self-understanding, and ethical decision-making, ensuring the reading serves as a tool for positive transformation.
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Manifestation of Desired Outcomes
While not guaranteeing a specific outcome, intention can contribute to the manifestation of desired results. By focusing on a clear objective, the reading can provide insights into potential paths and actions that align with that objective. This conscious alignment with a specific goal can empower the individual to take proactive steps towards its realization.
In summary, intention setting is an indispensable component of conducting a personal tarot reading. It provides focus, aligns energy, ensures ethical conduct, and potentially contributes to the manifestation of desired outcomes. By consciously defining the purpose of the session, the individual transforms the reading from a passive observation into an active tool for self-discovery and personal empowerment.
4. Card selection
The process of card selection within the context of a personal tarot reading constitutes a critical juncture, directly impacting the information and insights derived. Whether employing a structured shuffling and drawing method or a more intuitive selection process, the cards chosen form the foundation of the reading’s message. Randomness plays a role, yet the individual’s mental state and focused intention subtly influence the cards that emerge. A haphazard approach to this selection, devoid of concentration or intention, can result in a disjointed and less meaningful reading. Conversely, a focused and deliberate approach, even within a random selection process, can yield surprisingly relevant and profound results. For example, an individual seeking clarity on a career decision might, through careful shuffling and drawing, select cards that directly address the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats associated with their current professional path.
The method of card selection also varies and affects the reading. Some practitioners adhere to strict shuffling protocols, believing that this ensures true randomness and minimizes conscious influence. Others favor a more intuitive approach, allowing their hand to be drawn to specific cards, guided by an inner sense. Regardless of the chosen method, the individual’s openness and receptivity are paramount. A closed mind, skeptical of the process, can inadvertently block the flow of information. The act of consciously acknowledging the potential for insight and approaching the selection with genuine curiosity can significantly enhance the accuracy and relevance of the cards drawn. Consider the example of someone seeking guidance on a relationship; their level of emotional openness and honesty with themselves directly impacts the cards that present themselves and the insights they reveal.
In summation, card selection within a personal tarot reading is not merely a passive act but an integral part of the interpretive process. The individual’s mental state, intention, and chosen method of selection directly influence the cards that emerge and the insights they provide. Approaching card selection with focus, openness, and receptivity increases the likelihood of obtaining a meaningful and relevant reading, fostering self-awareness and informed decision-making. The deliberate nature of this selection elevates the experience beyond chance, transforming it into a tool for personal exploration and guidance.
5. Spread layout
The configuration of cards in a tarot reading, known as the spread layout, serves as a structural framework for interpreting the cards and gaining insights. The specific arrangement of cards provides a context for each card’s meaning, transforming a collection of individual symbols into a coherent narrative. The choice of layout is directly related to the question being asked and significantly influences the nature of the information received.
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Position Significance
Each position within a spread layout carries a specific meaning or association. These positions often represent aspects of the question being addressed, such as the past, present, future, or underlying influences. For example, in a classic Celtic Cross spread, one position might represent the querent’s current environment, while another reveals potential obstacles or challenges. Understanding the significance of each position is crucial for accurately interpreting the cards placed there.
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Inter-Card Relationships
Spread layouts facilitate the analysis of relationships between cards. The proximity and arrangement of cards in the spread allow for the identification of patterns, conflicts, and complementary energies. The interpretation extends beyond the individual meaning of each card to encompass the dynamic interplay between them. For instance, two cards placed in adjacent positions might either reinforce or contradict each other, providing a more nuanced understanding of the situation.
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Common Spread Examples
Numerous spread layouts exist, each designed to address specific types of questions or provide particular perspectives. The Three-Card spread, a simple layout, is commonly used for quick insights into a situation’s past, present, and future. The Celtic Cross, a more complex spread, offers a comprehensive overview of a situation, including influences, challenges, and potential outcomes. The choice of spread should align with the complexity and specificity of the question being asked.
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Layout Adaptation
While established spread layouts provide a useful framework, individuals may adapt or create their own layouts to suit their specific needs. Modifying a spread layout involves assigning new meanings to existing positions or adding new positions to address additional aspects of the question. However, adapting layouts should be done with careful consideration, ensuring that the new positions are clearly defined and logically integrated into the overall structure.
The spread layout provides a structured context for interpreting the cards in a personal tarot reading. The arrangement of cards, the significance of each position, and the relationships between cards contribute to the overall narrative and insights gained. Choosing an appropriate spread layout, or adapting an existing one, is essential for effectively exploring the question at hand and deriving meaningful guidance.
6. Symbol interpretation
Effective execution of a personal tarot reading relies heavily on accurate symbol interpretation. Each card within the tarot deck is replete with symbolism drawn from various historical, cultural, and psychological sources. The imagery, archetypes, and numerical associations present on each card contribute to its overall meaning. Thus, grasping the nuances of these symbols forms the core of understanding any card’s message, especially in the context of a personal reading where self-knowledge is critical.
Without a grasp of the underlying symbolism, the tarot cards become mere pictures lacking depth and relevance. The ability to interpret these symbols allows the individual to connect the cards to their own experiences and circumstances. For example, the “Tower” card often depicts sudden upheaval and destruction, but understanding the symbolic implications allows an individual to recognize the potential for necessary change and renewal within their own life, rather than simply fearing impending disaster. Accurate interpretation bridges the gap between the abstract symbolism and the concrete realities of the querent’s existence.
In summary, competent symbol interpretation represents an indispensable element in effective self-guided tarot reading. It unlocks the potential for deeper understanding, facilitates personal connection with the cards, and transforms an abstract exercise into a powerful tool for self-reflection and guidance. The lack of this understanding reduces the tarot to a superficial tool, diminishing its capacity for providing meaningful insights.
7. Intuitive connection
The cultivation of intuitive connection constitutes a pivotal element in the effective execution of a personal tarot reading. This inherent capacity for understanding or knowing something without conscious reasoning enables a deeper engagement with the symbolism and messages contained within the cards, enriching the interpretive process. Intuitive connection transcends rote memorization of card meanings, fostering a personalized understanding that resonates with the individual’s unique experiences and perspectives. This connection enhances the potential for self-discovery and insightful guidance.
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Subconscious Awareness
Intuitive connection draws upon the subconscious mind, accessing stored knowledge, experiences, and emotions that may not be readily available to conscious awareness. This subconscious access allows for a more holistic interpretation of the cards, integrating personal context with the symbolic meanings. For example, a seemingly negative card may, through intuitive connection, reveal a necessary phase of transformation based on past experiences. The integration of subconscious information enriches the understanding gleaned from the reading.
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Symbolic Resonance
Intuition facilitates a deeper resonance with the symbolic language of the tarot. Rather than relying solely on predefined interpretations, intuitive connection allows the individual to experience a visceral understanding of the symbols, associating them with personal meanings and emotions. For instance, the imagery of the “High Priestess” card may evoke a specific memory or feeling, providing a unique insight into the querent’s inner wisdom and guidance. This resonance transforms the reading from an intellectual exercise to a deeply personal experience.
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Emotional Attunement
Emotional attunement plays a critical role in intuitive connection, enabling the individual to sense the subtle emotional undercurrents associated with each card. This attunement allows for a more nuanced interpretation, considering not only the literal meaning of the card but also the emotional context in which it appears. For example, the “Three of Swords” card may signify heartbreak, but intuitive attunement can reveal the underlying emotions of grief, release, or acceptance that are relevant to the individual’s experience. This emotional depth enhances the accuracy and relevance of the reading.
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Overcoming Mental Noise
Cultivating intuitive connection requires quieting the rational mind and minimizing mental chatter. Analytical thinking and preconceived notions can hinder the flow of intuition, impeding access to deeper insights. Practices such as meditation, mindfulness, and focused breathing can help to quiet the mind and create space for intuitive signals to emerge. By minimizing mental noise, the individual enhances their receptivity to intuitive guidance and facilitates a more authentic connection with the cards.
The cultivation of intuitive connection enhances the validity and personalized applicability of a personal tarot reading. This connection facilitates a deeper understanding of the symbols, access to subconscious knowledge, emotional attunement, and a reduction in mental noise. This process transforms the reading from a mechanical exercise into a tool for self-discovery. By fostering this connection, individuals can unlock the full potential of tarot as a means of personal growth and guidance.
8. Record insights
Documentation of insights gleaned from a personal tarot reading forms an indispensable component of the process. This practice transcends mere note-taking, representing a deliberate effort to capture, analyze, and synthesize the information obtained from the cards. The act of recording facilitates deeper reflection and promotes a more comprehensive understanding of the reading’s message. Without a systematic method for documenting these insights, the potential benefits of the reading are significantly diminished. For instance, an individual might initially interpret a card’s meaning in one way during the reading, but a written record allows for revisiting and re-evaluating that interpretation in light of subsequent events or further contemplation.
The practical significance of recording insights extends beyond immediate understanding, fostering long-term personal growth. Revisiting past readings and comparing initial interpretations with later perspectives reveals patterns, recurring themes, and shifts in personal perspectives. This longitudinal analysis facilitates a deeper self-awareness and promotes informed decision-making. As an example, consider an individual who repeatedly draws cards indicating a need for change in their professional life. The written record of these readings, analyzed over time, might highlight specific areas of dissatisfaction or identify recurring obstacles, prompting proactive steps toward a more fulfilling career path. This practice ensures the reading’s influence extends beyond the immediate session, shaping ongoing development and self-understanding.
In conclusion, the meticulous recording of insights derived from a personal tarot reading serves as a catalyst for deeper self-reflection and ongoing growth. This practice fosters a continuous cycle of learning and refinement, enabling individuals to effectively integrate the reading’s message into their lives. The challenges of maintaining consistent documentation can be mitigated by adopting a structured approach, such as utilizing a dedicated journal or digital tool. By prioritizing the recording of insights, individuals maximize the potential of tarot as a tool for self-discovery, personal empowerment, and informed decision-making, ensuring the initial investment of time and energy yields long-lasting benefits.
9. Ongoing reflection
Sustained consideration of insights derived from a personal tarot reading constitutes a crucial phase in leveraging the practice for personal growth. This process extends beyond the immediate interpretation of the cards, encouraging a continuous evaluation and integration of the reading’s messages into daily life.
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Integration with Daily Life
Ongoing reflection facilitates the integration of tarot insights into practical decision-making and daily routines. The messages gleaned from a reading are not static pronouncements but rather dynamic perspectives that can inform choices and actions. For example, a reading highlighting the need for greater self-care might prompt the individual to prioritize activities such as exercise, meditation, or creative pursuits in their daily schedule. Consistent reflection ensures the reading’s influence extends beyond the session itself, shaping ongoing behavior and promoting sustained well-being.
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Evolving Interpretation
Continual reflection allows for evolving interpretations of the cards as circumstances change. The meaning of a card can shift over time as new experiences and perspectives alter the individual’s understanding. Revisiting past readings and re-evaluating the cards’ messages in light of current events can reveal deeper layers of meaning and provide fresh insights. For instance, a card initially interpreted as a setback might later be recognized as a necessary catalyst for growth and transformation. This dynamic interpretation ensures the reading remains relevant and adaptable to the individual’s evolving needs.
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Pattern Recognition
Regular reflection facilitates the identification of recurring patterns and themes within multiple tarot readings. By systematically reviewing past readings, individuals can uncover underlying tendencies, recurring challenges, and persistent strengths. This pattern recognition provides valuable insights into personal motivations, behavioral habits, and potential areas for growth. For example, an individual might notice a recurring theme of self-sabotage in their readings, prompting them to address underlying insecurities or limiting beliefs. The identification of these patterns empowers the individual to make conscious changes and break free from unproductive cycles.
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Self-Assessment and Adjustment
Continuous self-assessment, fueled by ongoing reflection on tarot readings, permits the recalibration of personal goals and strategies. Insights provided by the cards can illuminate areas where personal efforts align with or diverge from intended outcomes. The readings, thus considered, facilitate course correction and allow for the adjustment of strategies to achieve greater efficacy. For example, if the readings consistently indicate a need for improved communication skills, the individual can actively seek opportunities to enhance those skills through workshops, practice, or self-study. This iterative process of self-assessment and adjustment ensures progress towards personal goals and a more fulfilling life.
The synergistic effects of ongoing contemplation, implemented as a routine subsequent to tarot exploration, amplifies the potential of individual interpretation. The integration of insights into daily life, an evolving interpretation of card meanings, pattern recognition across multiple readings, and self-assessment for strategic adjustments, all serve to solidify the reading’s influence, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of personal growth and informed decision-making. The commitment to continuous introspection transforms tarot from a passive pastime into a potent instrument for self-directed evolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries and misconceptions associated with performing self-guided tarot readings. The aim is to provide clarity and dispel uncertainties regarding this practice.
Question 1: Is it possible to accurately read tarot for oneself, or is an external reader always necessary?
The accuracy of a personal tarot reading is contingent upon the individual’s objectivity and self-awareness. While an external reader may offer an unbiased perspective, self-readings can provide profound insights into personal motivations and subconscious patterns, assuming the individual is capable of honest self-assessment.
Question 2: How often should one conduct a personal tarot reading?
The frequency of personal tarot readings is subjective and depends on individual needs and circumstances. Engaging in readings too frequently may foster dependency, while infrequent readings may limit the potential for ongoing self-reflection. A balance, dictated by personal intuition and the presence of specific questions or concerns, is advisable.
Question 3: What if the cards drawn in a self-reading are consistently negative or undesirable?
Repeatedly drawing negative cards should not be interpreted as a fixed predestination of misfortune. Rather, such occurrences may indicate areas requiring attention, potential obstacles to overcome, or subconscious patterns hindering personal growth. The focus should shift to identifying actionable steps to address the underlying issues.
Question 4: Is it acceptable to repeatedly ask the same question in multiple readings?
Repeatedly posing the identical question in successive readings is generally discouraged, as it can lead to biased interpretations and a skewed perspective. Such actions can reflect an unwillingness to accept initial insights or an attempt to manipulate the cards for a desired outcome. A revised question, focusing on specific aspects of the initial concern, is a more productive approach.
Question 5: How does one handle conflicting interpretations or apparent contradictions within a self-reading?
Conflicting interpretations or contradictions within a reading may indicate complex or multifaceted influences at play. A comprehensive approach involves considering the overall context of the reading, examining the relationships between the cards, and seeking to understand the underlying themes. Journaling and contemplation can assist in resolving apparent discrepancies.
Question 6: Does performing personal tarot readings require inherent psychic abilities or mystical gifts?
While heightened intuition can enhance the process, personal tarot readings primarily rely on symbolic interpretation, self-reflection, and a capacity for critical thinking. Developing these skills through practice and study can yield meaningful insights, regardless of inherent psychic inclinations.
The efficacy of personal tarot readings hinges on a balanced approach that integrates intuition, analytical skills, and a commitment to self-awareness. Understanding the limitations and potential pitfalls of this practice is crucial for responsible and insightful self-exploration.
The following sections will explore advanced techniques and alternative perspectives on interpreting tarot cards.
Tips for Effective Self-Guided Tarot Readings
Applying these focused strategies can improve precision and efficacy when performing personal tarot readings, promoting more insightful self-discovery and informed decision-making.
Tip 1: Maintain a Dedicated Tarot Journal. This practice facilitates the tracking of readings, interpretations, and subsequent outcomes. Recording card combinations, perceived meanings, and any relevant life events allows for identifying patterns and refining interpretive skills. For instance, if the “Ten of Swords” repeatedly appears in readings concerning career decisions, the journal entry might note the associated feelings of overwhelm or burnout, prompting a reevaluation of professional strategies.
Tip 2: Utilize a Variety of Spreads. Experimenting with diverse tarot spread layouts ensures adaptability to different inquiries and enhances the depth of exploration. The Celtic Cross spread provides a comprehensive overview, while a simpler three-card spread may suffice for focused questions. Employing a variety of spreads prevents stagnation and allows for nuanced perspectives.
Tip 3: Regularly Cleanse the Tarot Deck. Energetic cleansing of the tarot deck is a recommended practice to maintain its clarity and responsiveness. Methods such as smudging with sage, exposure to moonlight, or visualization techniques can remove accumulated energies and restore the deck’s vibrational purity. This practice is especially relevant before and after intense or emotionally charged readings.
Tip 4: Consult Multiple Interpretations. Cross-referencing interpretations from various sources expands the understanding of card symbolism. Consulting tarot guidebooks, online resources, and experienced practitioners provides diverse perspectives and mitigates the risk of biased or limited interpretations. This practice facilitates a more nuanced and comprehensive assessment of the cards’ messages.
Tip 5: Practice Mindfulness and Meditation. Integrating mindfulness and meditation techniques prior to conducting readings promotes a calm and focused mental state. These practices enhance intuition, minimize mental clutter, and improve the ability to connect with the cards on a deeper level. Consistent practice refines the ability to receive and interpret intuitive guidance.
Tip 6: Establish Clear Boundaries. Defining specific boundaries regarding the scope and frequency of readings prevents over-reliance on the tarot for decision-making. Maintaining a healthy detachment ensures the tarot serves as a tool for self-reflection, rather than a replacement for critical thinking and personal responsibility.
Tip 7: Embrace Iterative Learning. Viewing the tarot as an iterative learning process encourages continuous refinement of interpretive skills. Approaching each reading with a willingness to learn from both successes and perceived failures fosters growth and enhances the ability to connect with the cards on a personal level.
Employing these strategies facilitates more meaningful and effective personal tarot readings. Consistent application of these techniques improves analytical skills, fosters intuitive connections, and promotes responsible self-discovery. These insights empowers individuals to integrate tarot wisdom into their lives.
The following section provides cautionary notes and addresses potential pitfalls associated with self-guided tarot explorations.
How to Do a Tarot Reading on Yourself
The preceding exploration has detailed the critical elements involved in undertaking a personal tarot reading. From establishing a suitable environment and formulating a precise question to understanding card symbolism and cultivating intuitive connection, each aspect contributes to the potential for insightful self-discovery. The ability to record, reflect upon, and integrate these insights into daily life further enhances the practice’s value. Mastering each step requires effort, patience, and a commitment to self-awareness.
As a tool for introspection, the approach to understanding one’s self through tarot is best regarded as a continuous journey. Continued study, practice, and a thoughtful approach ensure the practice offers meaningful guidance and promotes sustained personal growth. Responsible and informed exploration is key to harnessing the full potential of this ancient method.
