Hi all,
I *almost always* use reversals and consider that they add depth to my interpretations. However, it's a complex subject and I by no means consider myself a master of how to interpret reversed cards. There are a multitude of ways in which you can use reversed energies and I use most of them. Part of the trick is knowing which set of meanings you will use - and that is partly suggested by the position within the spread. Sometimes you can determine how you will read reversed cards before drawing cards.
Opposite meaning to upright - I almost never use this approach
Specific reversed meaning of the card - I use this regularly. The reversed meaning of a card isn't always 'negative', just as the reversed meaning of a card that is usually seen as 'negative' isn't always 'positive'. There are often subtle differences in meaning between upright and reversed. Often these are connected in some way to the timing issue of beginning or fading energies. Often upright meanings of cards are very on/off, black/white whereas if we are honest about our lives, many things are far more indistinct, unsaturated colour, all a bit grey. Reversed meanings can add much more grey-scale into a reading for a more realistic view of a situation.
Lesser or reduced energies - this can be very useful, especially if you are considering multiple options. Upright cards can show strength around certain options and reversed cards show lesser energies.
Yes/No - I often use upright and reversed to give yes/no indications
Timing - Card energies can be like a wave of energy and a reversal can indicate energies starting to build or fading away. Again, position in the spread can often indicate which
Returning to the lessons of the previous card - I rarely use this, but occasionally it is of use.
So, if you are looking to simplify things, stay away from reversal LOL. But if you want to use reversals to build a more subtle type of reading then it can open up so much.
Kind regards
Russ
