
Six of Cups
The Six of Cups represents nostalgia, childhood memories, emotional innocence, and reconnection with the past. This card often appears when you are reflecting on who you used to be, old friendships, past relationships, or childhood experiences. It suggests that the past holds wisdom, comfort, and even opportunities for healing. However, it also reminds us that we must balance nostalgia with present growth—honoring where we’ve been while still embracing the future.
UPRIGHT
Nostalgia, reunion, innocence, childhood joys
REVERSED
Clinging to the past, stagnation, outdated perceptions
General meaning
Upright
The Six of Cups invites you to reflect on the past, reconnect with old friends or loved ones, and embrace the joy of innocence and simplicity. You may be revisiting childhood experiences, reconnecting with family, or rekindling an old relationship. This card often carries a sense of warmth, kindness, and emotional safety, reminding you that the past can offer comfort and wisdom. However, it’s important to remember that while the past is valuable, true growth happens in the present.
Reversed
When reversed, the Six of Cups warns against being stuck in the past, resisting change, or romanticizing old situations. You may be holding onto nostalgic memories that prevent you from moving forward, or you could be dealing with unresolved childhood wounds that still affect your present self. This card encourages you to acknowledge the past without letting it dictate your future.
Symbolism
The Six of Cups traditionally depicts two children exchanging a cup filled with flowers, symbolizing innocence, generosity, and emotional purity.
The children represent childhood memories, joy, and a time before emotional burdens.
The filled cups symbolize emotional abundance and the beauty of giving and receiving love.
The castle in the background represents emotional safety and the idea of "home."
This imagery reminds us that the past can be comforting, but we must still move forward.
Love meaning
Upright
In love, the Six of Cups suggests reunions, childhood sweethearts, or soul connections. It can indicate a relationship that feels familiar, safe, and emotionally fulfilling. If single, this card suggests someone from your past may re-enter your life.
Reversed
Reversed, this card warns against being stuck in past relationships or longing for something that no longer serves you. It encourages you to embrace the present and allow love to evolve.
Career meaning
Upright
The Six of Cups in a career reading suggests finding joy in work, returning to a past career path, or reconnecting with old colleagues. It may also indicate mentorship or passing down knowledge.
Reversed
When reversed, this card warns against clinging to outdated career expectations or resisting change in the workplace. It suggests embracing new opportunities rather than staying stuck in old ways.
Health meaning
Upright
Implies a return to health practices that have previously brought balance and wellness. It might suggest incorporating playful or joyful activities that boost your mental health and overall well-being.
Reversed
Warns that nostalgia or comfort in old health habits may be detrimental rather than beneficial. It encourages seeking new health strategies that better suit your current lifestyle or condition.
meaning For The Queer Community
Upright
For queer or trans individuals, this card may represent a period of reflecting on past experiences that have shaped their identity. It highlights the importance of supportive and affirming relationships from the past that continue to offer comfort and understanding.
Reversed
Suggests a possible struggle with moving beyond past definitions of identity or community. It calls for embracing the current journey of self-discovery and affirming one's identity in ways that resonate with who they are now, rather than who they were.