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  1. Reflection
  2. Tarot
  3. Card meanings
  4. Death

Major arcana

Death

Make room for an ending.

  • Endings
  • Transition
  • Release

What the card shows

Despite its name, this card is traditionally read as transformation rather than literal death. It marks the end of one chapter so another can begin, and invites you to let go of what has run its course.

In tarot, Death commonly points to endings and transition. Use it to reflect on what is complete and what space an ending may leave.

Among the major arcana

The 22 major arcana trace a long arc of experience, from the Fool’s first step to the completion of the World. They are often read as the larger themes in a life: beginnings, choices, endings and renewal.

Bring it into your body

A pose to pair with this card

Corpse Pose

Savasana marks the end of practice and the rest that makes renewal possible.

Open the pose guide

A longer practice

Breath awareness meditation

Larger themes deserve unhurried attention. A few minutes with the breath gives a big question room to settle.

Open the practice

Questions to sit with

Start here

What am I ready to finish, release or place gently behind me?

  • What chapter is ready to close?
  • What becomes possible when I release something familiar?

Notes stay on this page unless you download them.

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