Four of Pentacles

Welcome to season 7 of this podcast, where I am talking all about the Suit of Pentacles!What we explore in this episode:The themes of fear, control, and emotional self-protection that often show up in the Four of PentaclesHow this card highlights moments when we cling to familiarity, even when it’s no longer serving usThe physical and energetic imagery across multiple decks, from snakes and spirals to blocked postures and guarded treasureHow patterns of self-protection can create emotional, financial, or energetic "blocks"Decks referenced:The Goddess of Love Tarot Deck: A Book and Deck for Embodying The Erotic Divine Feminine by Gabriela Herstik and illustrated by Julia PopescuTherapists Who Tarot Deck, Prompts by Dreya Blume and Images by Rebecca BloomThe Sasuraibito Tarot deck by Stasia BurringtonIn this episode, we explore the guarded posture of the Four of Pentacles. Often read as a card about control or holding on too tightly, this card speaks to the fear that arises before a big leap. It's that moment right before transformation when your subconscious says, “Nope, not safe,” even though your heart is quietly asking you to grow.We look at how this card shows up visually in various decks—figures clutching oversized coins, snakes coiled around their spirals, hands gripping with uncertainty. These images illuminate the psychological and emotional toll of clinging to what feels secure.The Four of Pentacles doesn’t shame us for wanting stability. Instead, it invites us to examine where we're creating walls instead of boundaries. It asks us to explore our relationship with scarcity, safety, and control—and to choose trust and curiosity over fear when it’s time to loosen our grip.If you haven't listened to my other seasons yet, go check them out!Season 1- Tarot BasicsSeasons 2&3- The Major Arcana and 4 SuitsSeason 4- Tarot in Pop Culture.Season 5- 13 Tarot Spreads.Season 6 - Suit of Wands.Today's Tarot Pull:Today’s card came from The Citadel: A Fantasy Oracle, and it was The Brawler from the Troupe suit. This card challenges us to step back from conflict and see where we might be responding to life with fists already raised—figuratively or literally.The message here is clear: if we’re hitting the same wall over and over, it may be time to change direction or soften our approach. The Brawler reminds us that confrontation is not always strength. Sometimes, true strength is being willing to try a new way, ask a different question, or simply rest when the old ways stop working.Reflective prompts on this card:Where in your life are you holding on too tightly right now? What are you afraid might happen if you let go, even just a little?What patterns have kept you feeling stuck or blocked?Are you relying on force or avoidance to try and solve a problem that needs patience or perspective?What would it feel like to pause, rest, and try something new?Can you soften the edges of control and invite more curiosity, even in small ways?Ways to Connect & SupportPatreon: For monthly hangouts, tarot Q&As, individual readings, and behind-the-scenes peeks, join the Every Day Tarot Patreon family.Newsletter: Get my FREE 2025 5-Card Tarot Spread PDF + weekly musings, event invites, and magic straight to your inbox.Let’s Talk Tarot Meetup: Local to the Greater Puget Sound area? Join me Monday, May 12th from 4:45-7pm at the Sumner Library for a Potluck and to create your own Tarot Cards. I’ll bring the craft supplies and we’ll talk tarot and craft together. Sign up here!Support the Podcast: If you love the show, the best way to support it is by listening daily, leaving a review, and subscribing or following in your favorite podcast app.Book a Consultation: I’m a sex & relationships therapist working virtually across Washington. I specialize in helping queer, kinky, polyamorous, and witchy folks navigate anxiety, chronic illness, communication, and identity work. Let’s see if we’re a fit: camilleasaunders.com