The Emperor is the embodiment of divine masculine energy - possessing traits like stability, confidence, decisiveness, and forward momentum. He is thought of as the father of the tarot deck. In his highest vibration, he commands devotion through wisdom and integrity, sharing his knowledge for the provision and protection of others.
The astrological association for this card is Aries, the first sign of the zodiac. Aries is cardinal fire energy - it compels you to take action. This influence can be seen in the Emperor's dynamic and assertive nature. When out of balance, his shadow side seeks to overpower and dominate others.
This archetype is also associated with the number four. According to numerology, four represents the need for order and structure as well as a logical and straightforward approach to any endeavor. This placement in the major arcana makes the Emperor an incredibly capable leader - one who lends his skills and strength out of a desire to serve the greater good.
The Emperor is a symbol of bravery, stability, authority, and discipline. He is a shining example of personal sovereignty - possessing a primal inner power and incredible self-control. He is a trailblazer who has his own ideas and agendas fueling his desire to lead the way.
Some reflection questions to consider when working with the Emperor card:
- Whose guidance am I following when it comes to how I live my life?
- What is my relationship to self-governance?
- What is my comfort level with taking up space in this world?
- Do I have confidence in the path I’ve chosen or the choices I’ve made?
- Am I allowing myself to be seen and heard?
- What structures are needed to support my dreams and goals?
- Am I employing the skills and/or knowledge I have to offer?
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Below are some common associations and a movement exercise to help you better understand and embody the energy of the Emperor card. To see these properties in action, click on the YouTube video image below to watch my own channeled movement for this archetype.
Element: Fire
The fire element is essential for transformation. It is the spark of action that fuels our passion. Movements that express this energy typically move up and out in an expansive manner. It is swift and direct and can include slicing, pressing, and pushing away any resistance your encounter. Fire movement is bold and strong, radiating from your solar chakra.
Planetary Influence: Mars
The planetary influence of the Emperor card is Mars. Mars energy is raw and powerful. He can teach you to stand your ground and also to go after what you want. Mars wants you to put things into motion but also make sure you stay in the driver's seat. When working with this planet I often teach a lot of traveling steps and sequences - movement exercises that will get you moving in a specific direction. Mars energy can also be seen in slow, controlled center work that displays bodily strength. If you’re familiar with classical ballet or modern dance techniques - think Horton Fortifications or Adage combinations.
Keep in mind that the combination of Mars and Fire energies can get out of control if left unchecked. Be intentional with every move and make conscious choices as you boldly explore new expressions of power and strength in your body. Think less wildfire and more controlled burn!
Movement Exercise for The Emperor Card
This exercise is designed to jumpstart your inner flame. We will combine traveling momentum with outwardly directed, powerful movements that will revitalize your spirit and help you to feel your own strength.
Before you begin, make sure you're moving in a safe space with plenty of vertical and horizontal room. Because we will be traveling, the bigger the space, the better! You will also want to find a moderate-tempo music track with a strong beat. Turn up the volume and put it on repeat. Spend a few minutes connecting with the energy of the music before you start this exercise.
- Begin by standing in one corner of the room. Gaze over your space and visualize a giant box. We are going to be traveling corner to corner around the perimeter of that box. See the diagram for a visual guide.
- TRAVEL TO CORNER #1: Focus your eyes on the first corner you will be traveling to. When you feel ready - walk, run, or skip directly toward that first corner. Try and take up at least eight counts with your traveling movement. Make sure that you are moving in a direct line toward your target. Allow yourself to feel the forward momentum in your body carrying you to your point of destination.
- DANCE IN CORNER #1: In the first corner we are going to focus on moving energy through your feet and lower legs. Stomp, kick, bounce, and/or jump around. Imagine stomping or kicking down anything that is preventing you from moving forward in your life. Give it everything you’ve got! Try to spend at least three sets of eight here.
- REPEAT STEPS 2 & 3 as you move towards and dance in CORNER #2. Here we will be focusing on moving your hips with power and intention.
- REPEAT STEPS 2 & 3 as you move towards and dance in CORNER #3. Here we will be focusing on pulsing your chest and shifting your rib cage, feeling the rhythm of the life force inside your chest.
- REPEAT STEPS 2 & 3 as you move towards and dance in CORNER #4. Here we will be focusing on your head and shoulders. Shake off any negative thoughts or fears that are keeping you captive
- After you’ve danced in all four corners, it’s time to take up space. Run into the middle of your square. Feeling the freedom in your body in the fire in your bones, let yourself become the flame and move boldly with POWER and CONTROL. Give yourself permission to EXPAND and CREATE. Stay connected with the feelings you’re experiencing in your body. Allow the fire to burn away anything left that’s holding you back.
As you work through this exercise, really try and visualize yourself as the leader of your own evolution. Each time you travel to a new corner, be laser-focused on your next destination. Move CONSCIOUSLY and with CONFIDENCE. If masculine energy is new or challenging for you, give yourself grace and start slow and small. You can repeat this exercise every day if needed until you’ve discovered the full range of your inner power.
Try to approach this entire process with curiosity and an open mind. Resist the urge to judge any movements as right or wrong. Notice your comfort level in allowing yourself to take up space. Spend time journaling your thoughts and experiences before ending this exercise.
Learn more about working with the tarot in conjunction with your dance and movement practices in episode 10 of my Spiritual Dance Podcast titled “Tarot for Dancers.” CLICK HERE to listen.
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