The seven-card Horse Shoe is a convenient, basic layout that can be used to answer different types of questions, especially concerning questions where insight would be helpful. Like several other layouts, it has tiles representing the past, present, and future.
The pinnacle of the Horse Shoe, looking like the top of the mountain, shows the obstacle or challenge that needs to be addressed and overcome. Tile #6 suggests a course of action to meet this challenge. The final tile shows the outcome or future, should this advice be followed.
Other clues are provided in Tiles #3 and #5, which indicate hidden or outside influences that come into play, affecting the journey to your goal.
Obstacle  East Wind |
||
Hidden Influences  Bamboo 5 |
External Influences  Bamboo 4 |
|
The Present  Orchid |
Suggestion  Plum Blossom |
|
The Past  Wan 4 |
The Outcome  Bamboo 2 |
The Past Tile represents past events that are affecting the question.
Wan 4
The Lute suggests that it would be a great time to take a vacation. Relaxation and a temporary disconnection from the duties of everyday life would be especially beneficial at this time. If you can't get away too long, at least take a break and meditate. The clarity will surprise you.
Orchid
The Orchid represents refinement, luxury, and the attainment of rare and precious things. Enjoy these times, but be careful not to give it to excess.
Bamboo 5
The Lotus flower represents fertility and more specifically birth. It may indicate an addition to the family or perhaps a new project to occupy your days. This is also a symbol of healing and constant regeneration, also self-sufficiency.
East Wind
The East Wind tile represents you. Tiles adjacent to the East tile in a reading should be given added weight.
Green, spring, wood, dragon
Bamboo 4
The Carp signifies peace, contentment, tranquillity, and freedom from the pressures of everyday life. The tile's vibrant colours symbolise a gain of material and/or spiritual wealth.
Plum Blossom
The Plum represents spring, youth, innocence, inexperience, and childlike happiness. It may be a sign that you need a fresh perspective on something. Something in your life may need to be re-evaluated.
Bamboo 2
The Duck symbolises enduring partnerships – long lasting relationships with the strength to overcome all obstacles. It suggests fidelity and trustworthiness, just as ducks are monogamous for life.