Six of Cups tarot card — Rider–Waite

Six of Cups

Minor
Element
Water
Zodiac
Scorpio
Number
6

The Six of Cups shows two children sharing flowers, representing nostalgia, innocence, and the joy of simple moments. This card is about looking back at happy memories, reconnecting with your inner child, or finding comfort in familiar places and people. When the Six of Cups appears, it’s a gentle reminder to cherish the past but also live in the present. Sometimes, this card suggests reunions, revisiting old friends, or healing childhood wounds. Let yourself appreciate how far you’ve come, enjoy small acts of kindness, and bring a sense of playfulness into your life. The best gifts are often the simplest ones.

Six of Cups — General meaning

Upright meaning

The Six of Cups upright brings themes of nostalgia, kindness, and revisiting the past with an open heart. You may reconnect with old friends, revisit a childhood home, or find comfort in familiar routines. This card encourages you to appreciate the positive moments that shaped you and to let those memories inspire kindness in the present. It’s a great time for acts of generosity, sharing stories, or enjoying simple pleasures. Let your heart be light and bring a spirit of play into your day. The lessons and love from your past are gifts to share, not chains to hold you back.

Reversed meaning

Reversed, the Six of Cups can signal difficulty letting go of the past or struggling to break free from old habits. You may be clinging to memories or relationships that hold you back, or letting childhood fears influence your present. Sometimes, this card suggests it’s time to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new experiences. Healing comes from acceptance and the willingness to grow. Let go of what no longer supports you and be open to creating joyful moments now. The future is full of possibilities if you allow yourself to move forward.

Upright keywords: Nostalgia, Innocence, Reunion, Kindness, Memories

Reversed keywords: Stuck in past, Old habits, Letting go, Comfort zone, Difficulty moving on

Six of Cups — Love meaning

Upright meaning

In love, the Six of Cups upright can signal sweet memories, reunions, or a relationship that feels innocent and comforting. If you’re single, you might reconnect with a past love or meet someone who makes you feel at home. For couples, it’s a time to reminisce together, heal old wounds, or simply enjoy small, affectionate moments. The card encourages kindness, forgiveness, and cherishing what’s special in your connection. Let nostalgia inspire gratitude but remember to stay present for each other and make new memories together.

Reversed meaning

In love, the Six of Cups reversed can indicate holding onto an old flame, repeating unhealthy relationship patterns, or feeling stuck in nostalgia. If you’re single, lingering on past loves may keep you from opening up to new ones. For couples, unresolved issues from the past could resurface, causing tension. The message is to focus on healing, communicate honestly, and allow yourself to experience love as it is now—not just how it was. Growth happens when you honor the past but live in the present.

Upright keywords: Sweetness, Reunion, Healing, Comfort, Forgiveness

Reversed keywords: Past love, Unhealthy patterns, Stagnation, Resurfacing issues, Healing needed

Six of Cups — Career meaning

Upright meaning

For career, the Six of Cups upright points to supportive coworkers, finding joy in simple tasks, or revisiting past roles or projects that brought satisfaction. You may find inspiration by looking at old successes or rekindling enthusiasm for your work. It’s also a great time to mentor others, share knowledge, or collaborate with people you trust. The card suggests finding ways to make your professional life feel more enjoyable and grounded in genuine connections. Appreciate what you’ve learned and let that experience guide you forward.

Reversed meaning

For career, the Six of Cups reversed suggests outgrowing an old job, moving beyond former roles, or needing to update your approach to work. You may feel bored by routine or find that nostalgia for the “good old days” is holding you back from seizing new opportunities. The advice is to refresh your skills, embrace innovation, and seek new experiences in your career. Don’t be afraid to leave your comfort zone and trust that progress comes with change.

Upright keywords: Mentorship, Support, Satisfaction, Experience, Groundedness

Reversed keywords: Boredom, Routine, Need for change, Progress, Innovation

Six of Cups — Spiritual meaning

Upright meaning

Spiritually, the Six of Cups upright is about returning to simple practices, connecting with your roots, or seeking wisdom from your personal history. You might feel called to honor family traditions, reconnect with your inner child, or practice gratitude for the lessons of your past. This card invites you to find healing in reflection but also encourages playfulness and lightness on your spiritual path. Enjoy simple rituals, cherish meaningful memories, and let them fuel your sense of wonder as you grow.

Reversed meaning

Spiritually, the Six of Cups reversed may signal feeling disconnected from your roots or traditions, or struggling to find meaning in old practices. You might benefit from trying new spiritual approaches or letting go of beliefs that no longer resonate. Reflection is valuable, but growth comes from being present and open to what’s ahead. Give yourself permission to explore, evolve, and create new sources of inspiration on your journey.

Upright keywords: Tradition, Roots, Gratitude, Reflection, Playfulness

Reversed keywords: Disconnection, Outgrowing, Change, New inspiration, Growth