EMBODYING THE MAJOR ARCANA - THE FOOL CARD
The Fool card represents the dreamer - full of innocence, hope, and blind optimism. One who is awakening to endless possibilities and moving boldly towards a sea of potential. Some refer to this as “wearing rose-colored glasses” - but we all have times in our lives when this energy is needed to propel us forward and do the things we came here to do.
The fool archetype activates the Divine within. It’s that gut-level instinct, that internal guiding voice that knows what our next steps are. Leaning into this energy allows us to see things from a broader perspective and make choices that aren’t influenced by difficult life circumstances or lingering emotional baggage.
The numerology associated with this card (the number zero) allows it to be placed at the beginning or end of the major arcana. This speaks particularly to liminal spaces - the moments of transition we find ourselves in when something has ended but the new thing has not yet begun.
The medicine offered to us by the fool is to be courageous and take that leap of faith. Your unique energy is exactly what’s needed in this world and you have what it takes to create positive change. Let go of expectations and the need to evaluate everything with a critical eye. Do it brave, or do it scared - but don’t let fear hold you back. You’ll never know unless you try!
Some reflection questions to consider when working with the fool card:
- What would you do if there were no limitations?
- What mark do you long to leave on this world?
- What insight, inspiration, or divine wisdom is coming into your awareness that longs to take human form?
- What is holding you back from birthing that into this earthly plane?
Below are some common associations and a movement exercise to help you better understand and embody the energy of the fool card. To see these properties in action, click on the YouTube video image below to watch my own channeled movement for this archetype.
Element: Air
This element rules our thoughts and mental processes. In dance and movement practices, air energy is often intricate, fast-moving, and is typically expressed in the upper body. It often activates the arms and hands to create a multitude of unique shapes and dynamics that are ever-evolving.
Planetary Influence: Uranus
This radical planet is known as the change-maker who brings sudden revelations and awakenings. It can unearth radical truth and push us into a state of reactivity. Uranus doesn't hold back and it's not afraid to try something new. When working with Uranus energy I like to embrace opposition so that I can learn from a different perspective. 
Movement Exercise for The Fool card
Before you begin, make sure you're moving in a safe space with plenty of vertical and horizontal room. Air energy can have you reaching for the sky - watch out for ceiling fans and anything else that might be dangling from the ceiling.
- Start by tuning into your breath. Notice how and where it fills your body and what sensations you experience as you push and pull air throughout your body.
- Then allow yourself to begin moving spontaneously, channeling attributes of air energy (see above). Approach this time with curiosity and an open mind. Be careful not to let yourself judge any movements as right or wrong. Be brave and move with courageous intention - you cannot mess this up!
- While you’re moving, make mental notes of the shapes and dynamics coming through.
- Take time to try and repeat any movements that stand out to you.
- When you’re ready, make a sudden conscious choice to try movements that are quite different or opposite of the way you were just moving. For example: if you were making circular shapes, try something angular. If your movement was focused on the hands, allow your head to take the lead. Notice how different the movement feels and encourage yourself to embrace the new ways in which your body is moving.
- Repeat steps 1-5 as many times as you feel up to.
Make inquiries of your body about the changes you experience when switching to different movements. How does that transition make you feel? How long does it take for you to settle into the new shapes and movement dynamics? Take time to journal your thoughts and experiences before ending this practice.
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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