ATHANIEL ALTMAN

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 SEXUAL
PALMISTRY
What Your Hand Reveals about
Love, Sex, and Relationships

NATHANIEL ALTMAN

ADAMS MEDIA CORPORATION

Avon, Massachusetts
 This book ts dedicated with affection to Donna McCue

Copyright ©2003, Nathaniel Altman. All rights reserved.

This book, or parts thereof, may not be reproduced in any form
without permission from the publisher; exceptions are made
for brief excerpts used in published reviews.

Published by
Adams Media Corporation
57 Littlefield Street, Avon, MA 02322 U.S.A.
www.adamsmedia.com

ISBN: 1-58062-790-0

Printed in Canada.

J IGT
ES CoB

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Altman, Nathaniel
Sexual palmistry : what your hand reveals about love,
sex, and relationships / by Nathaniel Altman.—Reyv. ed.
p. cm.
Includes bibliographical references.
ISBN 1-58062-790-0
1. Sex (Psychology) 2. Palmistry. I. Title.
BF935.S48 A44 2002
133.6—de2] 2002011333

This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information with regard to
the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged
in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional advice. If legal advice or other expert
assistance is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought.
—From a Declaration of Principles jointly adopted by a Committee of the
American Bar Association and a Committee of Publishers and Associations

Cover photo by Michael Keller/Corbis.

Drawings courtesy of Linda James and Igor Zevin.

This book is available at quantity discounts for bulk purchases.

For information, call 1-800-872-5627.
Contents

Introduction

SECTION I: GROUNDWORK
Chapter 1 | The Hand: An Intimate Self-Portrait
The hand in history * The basis of hand reading * Hands in communica-
tion ¢ Exploring the world through touch ¢ Tactile and sexual pleasure
e What hands can reveal

iq Chapter 2 | The Five Types of Lover

Receptive or realistic hands « Elementary hands: uncomplicated ¢ Square
hands: levelheaded ¢ Spatulate hands: active * Conic hands: emotional
and intuitive ¢ Psychic hands: idealistic and romantic « Other types of
hands: philosophical and mixed

Zo Chapter 3 | The Hands: Consistency, Flexibility, and Size

Thick or thin ¢ Rough skin or smooth ¢ Flexible or stiff ¢ Size: how much
does it matter? ¢ Wide or narrow ¢ Right-handed or left

35 Chapter 4 / Stories the Fingers Can Tell

Flexibility, length, and width * Knuckles and phalanges ¢ Types of fin-
gertips ¢ What your fingerprints reveal e The importance of the thumb
¢ The other fingers: Jupiter, Saturn, Apollo, and Mercury ¢ Spacing
between fingers « Checking your nails

ay) Chapter 5 | Hand Topography I: Mounts and Valleys

Zones and mounts ¢ Jupiter: self-confidence ¢ Saturn: balance ¢ Apollo:
self-expression ¢ Mercury: communication ¢ Mars: determination
e Venus: sex and passion ¢ Luna: nurturing

TA Chapter 6 | Hand Topography II: Lines

Qualities of lines ¢ The most important feature: The life line ¢ The heart
line and the girdle of Venus * Head lines and Simian lines ¢ Lines of
achievement, beauty, and health ¢ Signs of travel and intuition ¢ How
long a relationship? ¢ How many children? ¢ Patterns for charisma, seri-
ousness, humor, and vanity

iil
iv SEXUAL PALMISTRY

SECTION II: APPLICATIONS

109 Chapter 7 | The Sexual Triad: Energy, Pleasure, and Aggression
The driving forces behind our sexuality * Becoming more self-aware
¢ Finding vital force in the hand ¢ The primary indicator of passion
e Measuring your capacity for pleasure ¢ Controlling aggression

123 Chapter 8 | Personality and Sexual Expression: What Your Hands Reveal
Origins of our sexual personality ¢ Romantics and realists ¢ Keys to com-
munication ¢ Sexual extrovert or introvert ¢ Finding self-esteem in the
hand ¢ Signs of faithfulness, generosity, and sensitivity ¢ Dominant or
submissive ¢ Indications of desire disorders

143 Chapter 9 | Sexual Varieties, Sexual Choices

Being sensible with sensitive subjects ¢ Varieties of sexual fantasies
¢ The fantasy-prone hand ¢ Autoeroticism ¢ Sexual orientation ¢ Sadism,
masochism, and other variations * Sexually abusive people and personalities

165 Chapter 10 | Do We Make a Good Fit? Compatibility in Relationships

The hows and whys of relationships ¢ Determining emotional compati-
bility * Sexual compatibility in the hand ¢ Marks of sensuality and sensi-
tivity * Signs of stubbornness and domination ¢ Will our love last?
Making predictions

SECTION III: PRACTICE

183 Chapter 11 | How to Read Hands
The role of ahand reader ¢ Caring, but objective ¢ The importance of pri-
vacy ¢ Preparing to read hands ¢ A suggested technique « Making a
handprint ¢ A Hand Analysis Test Chart

195 Chapter 12 / Analysis of Handprints

Hands of long-time couples ¢ Hands of a couple in a new relationship
¢ Hands of a young boy ¢ The hand of a pleasure lover ¢ A sexual adven-
turer ¢ A sexually inexperienced man © The hand of a sexy senior

vA) Bibliography
214 For Further Information
ZAG Acknowledgments
Introduction

Perhaps the most deeply felt dissatisfaction in our society is frus-

tration in our sexual lives and difficulty in establishing and main-
taining deep and satisfying romantic relationships with others.
While we have more knowledge about the philosophy of sex and
the finer points of sexual technique than ever before in human
history, many of us are unaware of the true nature of our sexual
selves and are not in touch with our own need for affection.
When we come into the world, we arrive with definite char-
acter traits that will eventually create the basis for our sexual
personality. And from the time we are born, we are given our
sexual education. We first learn about trust, caring, and uncon-
ditional love from our parents, although we often learn about
cruelty, withholding, and betrayal as well. In addition to
teaching us how to read and write, our school education tends
to reinforce our earliest attitudes and sometimes teaches us new
ones. Those of us who have received a traditional religious edu-
cation may have early memories of sexual teachings that were
drilled into our psyche and may have produced confusion, guilt,
and self-loathing in our adult life. For many of us, coming to
terms with early childhood images about sex has been a major
struggle, often requiring the help of psychologists and other
health professionals.
For most people, experiencing a close relationship with
someone we love is our deepest wish and most cherished life
goal. Although we devote much of our time and energy to
achieving good health, having a fulfilling career, creating a
happy, stable family life, maintaining a comfortable home, and
v
vi SEXUAL PALMISTRY

enjoying good friends, the single thing most of us want more

than anything else in the world is simply to love someone and
to be deeply loved in return.
Coming to terms with love, sexuality, and relationships isn’t
easy. It’s also one of the most important tasks we face at this
time. Although the sexual revolution of the 1960s and the rise
of feminism during the following decade brought a new sense of
individual awareness, freedom, and equality—as well as disso-
lution of sexual stereotypes—we now live in an age in which
total sexual freedom is being seriously questioned. Promiscuity,
sexually transmitted diseases, the prevalence of divorce, and a
growing sense of alienation between women and men are all
signs that we need to play by a new set of rules. On one side,
we struggle to claim our personal independence and integrity
and to enjoy both satisfaction and responsibility in our relation-
ships. At the same time, we are challenged to relate to others
more deeply, honestly, and faithfully, while keeping both
strength and vulnerability in balance. These challenges call for
a new, healthier interpretation of love and sexuality that can
give birth to a personal belief system and code of behavior that
will support us in our quest for health, happiness, and personal
growth through our relationships.
Relationships are essential for both our spiritual progress —
and psychological well-being. Although we all need and deserve
time by ourselves, the quality and depth of our relationships
with others is a mirror of our own state of being and thus can
be a reliable guide to our degree of personal integration and self-
fulfillment.
Learning to understand others and ourselves sexually is
important, but we also need to see people in their totality,
rather than only as sexual beings. We need to know them
as people with an understanding and appreciation of their
Introduction Vii

character, mind, special talents, aspirations, sense of humor,

and ability to love.
Like modern astrology, numerology, and handwriting
analysis, the art and science of palmistry helps us know our-
selves and others better. Through a careful, systematic study of
the human hand, we can learn about our basic instincts and per-
sonality traits, and how they are expressed in daily life, espe-
cially in our relationships with others.
Very few books have been written about sexual palmistry.
Some of the earlier books either contained strong moral over-
tones about sexuality and relationships or tended to trivialize
sex and avoid aspects of human sexuality that may be contro-
versial or psychologically uncomfortable. Other books concen-
trated on how you can “catch” your ideal mate by a study of his
or her hands.
This book may not have all the answers, but I hope it will
gently lead you to explore all aspects of sexuality and relation-
ships as they pertain to palmistry, so you can gain a deeper,
more accepting level of understanding about your own sexual
nature and those of your friends and family. At the same time,
I hope that for those who are drawn to reading the hands of
others, this increased understanding of sexual palmistry will
help you offer them better counsel, so they, too, can reach their
full potential as loving human beings.

This book is divided into three parts. The first section will pro-
vide a complete grounding in the major theories behind psy-
chological palmistry and its ability to provide important
information about sex, love, and compatibility with others. I’ll
devote special attention to hand shape, the fingers, and the ele-
ments of hand geography: mounts, lines, skin texture, flexi-
bility, and fingerprints.
Vill SEXUAL PALMISTRY

The second part will deal with the essentials of sexuality and
sexual expression. I'll discuss the psychological aspects of sex
and relationships, consider the varieties of sexual styles (and
how they can be seen in the hands), and explore the steps
needed to achieve greater awareness and harmony in our rela-
tionship with a partner.
The final section will reveal the keys to practical hand
reading. I'll devote a chapter to the different methods of reading
hands and taking handprints. I will also highlight some inter-
esting hands for analysis and discussion.
Even though the practice of hand analysis is thousands of
years old, it is still a developing science. Although we still do
not fully know ow and why hands reveal what they do, a com-
plex system has evolved over the centuries that can show—
through hand shape, texture, contours, and lines—important
information about our lives. While still incomplete, this body of
knowledge can serve as a useful guidepost for self-under-
standing and personal fulfillment in our relationships.
a
Chapter 1

The Hand: An Intimate

Self-Portrait

In this chapter, we'll discuss:

The hand in history

e The basis of hand reading

e Hands in communication

Exploring the world through touch

Tactile and sexual pleasure

What hands can reveal

 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

eee you look at your hands, what do you see? The most
obvious characteristics are the fingers; the palm (along
with raised areas of the hand like the thumb ball); the color and
texture of the skin; and at least three major lines, known in palm-
istry as the life line, head line, and heart line. You can also notice
the forms of your fingers, including their relative length, thick-
ness, flexibility, and the way they bend toward or away from one
another. If you have good eyesight (or use a magnifying glass), you
can examine the types of fingerprints you have, as well as the net-
work of smaller lines on your palm and fingers, along with other
patterns on the palm’s surface, like apexes, loops, and whorls.

Looking Back: The Hand in History

People have long been fascinated with the hand. From early
times, the hand has been used as a form of identification, as seen
in the handprint on the eighteenth-century Chinese land sale
document reproduced in FiGurRE 1-1. Studies of the human
hand—both as a tool for creative expression and as a mirror of
our inner selves—go back to at least as early as 3000 BCE, when
the Chinese began studying the hand to read a person’s char-
acter and tell fortunes. In India at about the same time, Aryan
sages developed the study of hand analysis, Hast Samudrika
Shastra, as part of a larger science (Samudrika Shastra) that inter-
prets human nature and forecasts destiny by scrutinizing the
forehead, face, hands, chest, and feet. Writings related to the
study of the human hand can be found in Indian literature
dating back to 2000 BcE, while the earliest references to palm-
istry itself can be found in the Vedic text, The Laws of Manu.
Although no written records remain, the ancient Chaldeans,
Tibetans, and Babylonians, as well as the early Egyptians and
Persians, also studied the science of hand analysis. Throughout
The Hand: An Intimate Self-Portrait

FIGURE 1—1: Handprint on an eighteenth-century Chinese legal

document

the Muslim world today, hand reading, known as I/m-ul-kaff, is

a highly respected study and avocation. The early Jewish
scholars spoke of hand reading in the Zohar, the ancient com-
pendium of kaballistic knowledge. References to the psycholog-
ical and mystical significance of the hand have been found in
early European manuscripts as well.
The ancient Greeks were avid students of hand symbolism
and hand analysis, and coined the term chirosophy (from xier,
meaning “hand,” and sophia, meaning “wisdom”). The great
philosopher Aristotle was said to have discovered an ancient
Arabic document on chirosophy on an altar to Hermes, the god
of wisdom. Aristotle is credited with having authored several
 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

The Hand and the Bible

Although many fundamentalist Christians believe that palmistry is a form
of black magic, the Holy Bible talks repeatedly about the human hand and
its significance. We find specific references to palmistry in Job 37:7: “He
sealeth up the hand of every man; that all men may know his work” In
Proverbs 3:16, we read, “Length of days is in her right hand; and in her left
hand riches and honor.” Exodus 7:5 speaks of the hand as signifying God's
presence and power; Ezra 7:9 depicts it as a sign of His benevolence; and
Isaiah 8:11 portrays the hand as a conveyor of God's thoughts and wishes:
“For the Lord spake thus to me with a strong hand, and instructed me that
| should not walk in the way of this people... .”

specialized treatises on hands, including one written especially

for Alexander the Great. Aristotle was particularly interested in
the markings of the hand and the significance they have in our
lives: According to his book De coelo et mundi causa, “The lines are
not written into the human hands without reason, they come from
heavenly influences and man’s own individuality.” Other early
Greeks—including Claudius Galen, Anaxagoras, Hippocrates,
Artemidoros of Ephesus, and Claudius Ptolemaeus—were serious
students of both medical and psychological chirosophy as well
as of chiromancy, or the art and science of foretelling the future
by the lines of the hand.

The Mirror of the Soul

The idea that our hands express who we are is the basis for psy-
chologically oriented hand analysis (chirology), as opposed to
predictive palmistry or chiromancy.
When people come to me for a hand reading, they are mostly
interested in chiromancy. They want to know how long they will
live, how much money they will make, when they will marry (or
The Hand: An Intimate Self-Portrait

divorce), and how many children they will have. Over the cen-
turies, in fact, the primary work of most palmists has been to tell
fortunes and offer predictions to satisfy the curiosity of their clients.
Because hand reading is an intuitive art as well as an objec-
tive science, many predictions have been found to be true.
However, since the lines in the hand can change over time (even
within a couple of weeks), predictions can be inaccurate or even
harmful; they can dampen initiative and help us avoid taking
responsibility for our attitudes and actions. This is why today’s
hand readers are less likely to predict the future, especially when
they deal with issues such as love, sex, and relationships.

The Expressive Hand

The hands are vital for their ability—in conjunction with the
brain—to express who we are. Psychologists say that by the time
we are twelve to fourteen months old our hands have begun to
express feelings of need, joy, sorrow, anger, surprise, and caring.
They serve as vital components of everyday speech and enable
us to express our deepest emotions to others. Although the way
we walk, our facial expressions, and our posture all express our
inner being to some extent, our hands are far more expressive
and specific. They can reflect the essence of our lives with
greater depth and accuracy than any other part of the body.
This quality of the hands impressed Swiss psychiatrist Carl
Jung to such a degree that he decided to study psycho-chirology.
He wrote: “Hands, whose shape and functioning are so inti-
mately connected with the psyche, might provide revealing, and
therefore interpretable expressions of psychological peculiarity,
that is, of human character.” Why is this? As our basic instru-
ment of touch, the hand plays a leading role in conditioning the
brain, body, and emotions to develop certain responses to the
world around us. In addition to being a mirror of our inherent
 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

genetic makeup, the hands can reveal changing patterns of

health, emotional stability, hidden talents, and major events, like
physical and emotional trauma, marriage, or leaving home,
which are determined by the way we respond to our life experi-
ence. And because the lines of the hand have the ability to
change, they offer us a unique opportunity to observe our life
path and to see into our past and present, while offering a
tempting glimpse into what the future may hold.
Nowhere is the hand more revealing than in the areas of
love, sexuality, and relationships. From the earliest days of our
lives, our hands play a unique role in enabling us to relate both
to the people around us and to the world at large.

Tools of Tactile Investigation

Kids’ hands go everywhere, as they try to touch everything they
can in an urgent quest to perceive and experience their surround-
ings. Because the hands (especially the fingertips) are among the
most sensitive parts of the body, they can perceive manifold
impressions of pressure, texture, temperature, and space.
According to Charlotte Wolff, fellow of the Royal Institute of
Psychiatry, “Without the evidence acquired through the hands,
{the infant’s} conception of objects—even when they are parts of
his own body which themselves have sensory nerves that supply
him with direct evidence—is incomplete.”
From the ongoing efforts to touch, grasp, and explore with
our hands, we receive a constant flood of information. These
data not only help us figure out our place in the scheme of
things but also reveal whether an object or a person is threat-
ening or beneficial to our well-being and development.
Our sense of touch is essential for developing primary rela-
tionships. As infants, our hands reach, grasp, and hold onto our
The Hand: An Intimate Self-Portrait

mother for comfort, warmth, and security. The primal experi-

ence of touching our parents and being touched in return lays the
foundation for nearly all of our attitudes toward other people—
and our relationships with them—from that time onward.
Because our hands can express so much of who we are, they
play a primary role in our relationships as we grow older. A
simple handshake can provide a wealth of information about
another person, telling us if he is warm, fearful, hostile, strong,
friendly, supportive, or weak—all within a fraction of a second.
Because our hands express our “heart energy,” they can offer
support, protection, comfort, and affection. The sensation of
being touched by someone who loves us and cares about us can
be among the most satisfying of experiences. Without the
hands, human relationships would be boring, limited, and
decidedly one-dimensional.

The Hands and Sex

The hands, of course, play a special role in sex. As children, we

used our hands to explore our bodies and to help us discover the
myriad pleasant sensations (often to the discomfort of our
elders) our body holds. As we grew older, our hands provided us
with the basic introduction to sexual pleasure, first with our-
selves and then with others.
When we make love, our hands play a unique and exciting
role. As our primary means of touch, we use our hands to
explore the skin of our lover: to squeeze, rub, massage, press,
pinch, and scratch. We hold our loved one’s face in our hands
and stroke her cheeks. We use our hands to lift, hug, grasp,
hold, and caress. By using our hands with creative exactitude,
we can touch our partner in ways that can produce unparalleled
sensations of ecstasy. According to Cathy Winks and Anne
10 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Semans, the authors of The New Good Vibrations Guide to Sex,

“Hands are exceptionally sensitive, skillful instruments. The
touch of your hand on your partner’s genitals is an intimate
communication, which creates a fine-tuned range of sensa-
tions.” After making love, we continue to use our hands to
caress and embrace our partner, prolonging the sense of pleas-
urable and nurturing contact. Whether used sexually or not,
our hands provide the essential link of affection and intimacy so
important for an enduring, satisfying romance.
Because of the special relationship between the human hand
and sexual expression, psychological hand analysis can be a
valuable tool to help us understand sexuality, love, and rela-
tionships. In addition to expressing ourselves through touch,
the hands also reveal who we are symbolically by their shape,
skin texture, mounts, and lines.

The Revealing Hand

So what can the hands reveal to us? In the first place, the hands
can measure our basic level of vital force, and how it can be
expressed as sexual energy, passion, commitment, and the
ability to love. The hands also show the capacity for feeling,
while indicating any mental and emotional blocks that can
inhibit its flow. The hands help us understand how compatible
we are with others and indicate how we can establish a rela-
tionship built on understanding and trust, even though our
partner may be very different from us. Finally, by revealing
traits, trends, and abilities we may or may not be aware of, the
hands can help us transcend whatever blocks us from achieving
satisfying relationships, while enabling us to draw upon many
of our positive “core” qualities—such as patience, commitment,
and humor—which we may have overlooked.
Chapter 2

The Five Types of Lover

In this chapter, we'll discuss:

e Receptive or realistic hands

e Elementary hands: uncomplicated

e Square hands: levelheaded

e Spatulate hands: active

Conic hands: emotional and intuitive

Psychic hands: idealistic and romantic

Other types of hands: philosophical

and mixed
 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

he shape and overall appearance of the hand is a primary

indicator of our sexual personality. Over the years, many
hand readers have sought to classify the hands into distinct cat-
egories. Some are based on the four elements: earth, fire, water,
and air. Others are based on the different shapes of the hand:
square, spatulate, or conic. While no system is perfect—and few
hands actually conform to one specific hand type—classifying
the hands gives us a general framework on which we can base a
thorough hand analysis.

Receptive or Realistic?
Basically, two general categories of hands encompass all five
types of lover: receptive and realistic. The receptive hand is often
fragile in appearance and is usually long and conic in shape, as
seen in the hand of a female in Ficure 2-1. Its owners tend to be
highly sensitive, emotional, and romantic. Generally speaking,
their emotions are strongly evident in their relationships and
can manifest as powerful mood swings, dramatic outbursts, and
emotional instability. A rich line pattern—signifying a highly
complex personality and a tendency for nervousness—is
common.
The realistic hand (FiGURE 2-2) appears more outgoing and
assertive. In this figure, the hand, which also belongs to a
female, is strong and broad, giving an impression of substance
and determination. Depending on the skin texture and consis-
tency of the hand, the owner would be strongly grounded in
three-dimensional reality and would have a strong interest in
the physical aspects of sex.
Specifically, we will use five of the major hand types
described by Captain Stanislaus d’Arpentigny, the nineteenth-
century French palmist. These types include the elementary,
The Five Types of Lover 13,

FIGURE 2-1: Receptive hand FIGURE 2-2: Realistic hand

square, spatulate, conic, and psychic. We'll also focus on the

philosophical as well as the mixed hand classification, to which
the majority of people belong. We will discuss the important
modifying factors—including hand consistency, size, skin tex-
ture, and flexibility—and how they can provide important
information about character and sexuality.

The Elementary Hand: Reflecting Earth Energy

The first category is known as the elementary hand (FIGURE 2-3).
The purely elementary hand is an “earthy” hand, containing
only a few basic lines.
14 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Appearance
Elementary hands exhibit the following characteristics:

¢ Stiff and hard to the touch, heavy and thick in

consistency
* Broad, squarish palm
* Short, stubby fingers
¢ Thick, stiff, short thumb that will not bend backward
¢ Fleshy palm, usually containing very few lines; three or
four lines that do appear tend to be strong and deep
* Arch and loop fingerprints often predominate
* Coarse skin texture

The vast majority of people with elementary hands are

male. Often realistic, they are grounded in three-dimensional
reality and function well in the material world. They tend to be
deliberate, slow, and practical, and they prefer to
see things in a simple, uncomplicated way. This is
not an indicator of low intelligence but rather of a
down-to-earth approach to viewing the world.
For the most part, the owners of the elemen-
tary hand dislike change and prefer a stable and
predictable work environment with few, if any,
surprises. Careers in agriculture (such as farming),
LS mining, work with heavy machinery, and similar
FIGURE 2-3: activities involving strong physical labor are likely
Elementary hand pursuits.
Elementary-handed people tend to be very attuned to
nature, so they prefer to live and work in the country rather
than in cities or towns. They work especially well with animals
and plants. If you know someone with a proverbial “green
thumb,” chances are good that he or she has an elementary hand.
The Five Types of Lover 15

People with elementary hands have a tough physical consti-

tution and are often very strong. They can also be conservative
and set in their ways. They are steady and reliable, like to be
independent, and often have material values. When threatened,
they can be very violent. An extreme example of the purely ele-
mentary type would be primitive, basic, crude, and unrefined;
intelligent reasoning and in-depth understanding would often be
lacking. People with elementary hands are often slow to react
and are not likely to easily reveal their feelings, especially those
of vulnerability and affection. However, a “higher” elementary
type (which is the type of person you are more likely to meet as
a palmist) may still have the characteristic shape of the elemen-
tary hand, but the consistency of the hand is more elastic and the
skin may have a finer texture. These differences reveal a more
sensitive and flexible person, who is more receptive to new ideas
and feelings. The handprint shown in FiGureE 2-4 can be classified
as a more refined type of the elementary hand. It belongs to a
highly skilled auto mechanic.

Sex and the Lower Elementary Hand

We already mentioned that the owner of this type of hand

has a robust constitution, along with great strength and
endurance. He has strong sexual drives and needs a partner who
can satisfy those needs. When his basic needs are satisfied—
food, money, sex, and shelter—he is happy. Yet if these values
are threatened, he can be violent, especially when drunk.
Jealousy is a common trait.
The pure elementary type can be difficult to get along with.
Yet with a strict, controlled influence from a strong partner, he
can be more “domesticated” and be a hard worker and good
provider. Good partners for this type include others with
16 SEXUAL PALMISTRY
oo SS SS EE Se ee

FIGURE 2-4: Refined

elementary hand

elementary hands, as well as those with strong hands that are

somewhat squarish in form.
Key phrases that describe this type include:
¢ Primitive, basic, crude
* Often lacking in intelligent reasoning and imaginative
understanding
* Often selfish and shortsighted in relationships

Sex and the Higher Elementary Hand

The higher elementary hand is far more common. The basic

shape of this hand may be the same as the lower elementary, but
the hand is usually more flexible, revealing a more relaxed,
responsive personality. Finer skin texture increases sensitivity.
The person is also likely to have a longer heart line (indicating
The Five Types of Lover 17

a greater capacity for affection) and head line (revealing more

reasoning Capacity).
Key phrases that describe the owner of higher elementary
hands include:

¢ Physically earthy, but gentle behind the tough exterior

* Unlikely to be demonstrative
° May repress feelings
e May need confidence boosted in a relationship
* Often creative, especially with carpentry, repairing
things, cooking, and working with animals or plants
¢ Dependable and reliable provider and protector

The Square Hand: Practical and Levelheaded

The second category in the realistic classification is the square
hand type (FIGURE 2-5). Recognizable by its apparent squareness
in form and squared-off fingertips, the square hand belongs to
the organizer and planner.

Appearance

Square hands exhibit the following

characteristics:

* Squarish shape, with palm and fingers

approximately the same length
° Fingertips often squarish in form
¢ Square nails, slightly longer than the
width
° Firm fingers and thumb do not easily
bend outward FIGURE 2-5: Square
¢ Firm consistency hand
18 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Owners of this hand love order, method, and stability.

Common sense rules their emotions, and they have a steady, sys-
tematic approach to life. They don’t like confusion and often
have difficulty adapting to new circumstances and situations, espe-
cially if their hand and/or thumb is rigid. They are often thor-
ough, competent, and careful with money.
Often lacking in spontaneity, people with squarish hands
prefer rules and structures. They like the “tried and true” and
are likely to follow a fixed routine; they do not easily change,
unless the hand is flexible.
People with squarish hands tend to be formal in their
approach and are usually polite and reserved when dealing with
others. They make good engineers, doctors, and bureaucrats.
Square hands also give their owners an inordinate ability to per-
severe and to cope with difficult situations.

Sex and the Square Hand

In the square hand, the palm, fingernails, and fingertips are

all squarish. And the owners of such a hand are “square” indeed.
Square-handed people tend to be conventional and strict
observers of social customs. Life is a matter of routine, order,
and system.
The same is true of their sex life. It tends to be the same,
day after day, and this is the way they prefer it: The same time,
the same place, the same person, and the same way, unless other
hand patterns (such as an imaginative head line and separated
head and life lines) are evident. The “square” person is loyal and
seldom commits adultery. If your partner has such a hand, start
your relationship with a steady routine, and be ready for meals
and appointments on time. Try to be as neat and orderly as you
can in your domestic life.
The Five Types of Lover ey)

Key phrases that describe the owner of square hands include:

* Controlled and restrained at the beginning of

relationships
° Sincere, honest, and direct when expressing affection
¢ Often moralistic in attitude
¢ Inflexible and dislike change
° Usually punctual and reliable
* Can be dull and unadventurous
* Good worker and provider
* Careful with money

The Spatulate Hand: Action!

Spatulate hands (FiGuRE 2-6) also fall into the realistic category.
Owners of spatulate hands are often original and inventive, and
are known for their restless and exploring personality.

Appearance

Spatulate hands exhibit the following

characteristics:

* Broad, strong hands with slightly knotted

fingers
¢ Fingertips “fan out” in the form of a
spatula; fingertips are often wider than
the first phalange (the one at the base of
the finger)
¢ Broad nails FIGURE 2-6: Spatulate
¢ Palm wider at the knuckles than at the wrist hand

The best word to describe this hand is action. People with

spatulate hands are energetic, tenacious, innovative, and
20 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

self-confident. They are also independent, self-reliant, and

curious about new ideas and unusual experiences. Like those
with square hands, they are often very practical and grounded
in day-to-day reality.
People with spatulate hands tend to be creative and impul-
sive. They are generally extroverted, dynamic, and exciting to
be with. They often have an uncanny ability to take advantage
of a situation and use it to practical advantage.
Like the elementary hand, the spatulate hand is primarily
sensate and its owner favors activities on the material plane.
Commerce, banking, construction, and entrepreneurship are
popular areas of career interest. They are also inventors and ath-
letes. When flexible and pliable, however, a spatulate hand
increases an interest in sensual pleasures at the expense of work
and other responsibilities.

Sex and the Spatulate Hand

Owners of this type of hand are energetic and restless. They

love action, excitement, and adventure and cannot tolerate
monotony and restrictions. This trait applies equally to their sex-
uality. If, for example, you are sexually inhibited or prefer pre-
dictable sexual encounters and your partner has a spatulate
hand, you could be in trouble. He or she is likely to become
bored with you and may even seek out other partners. However,
such infidelities have nothing to do with you or any inadequacy
on your part; it is simply in your partner’s nature to seek new
experiences. You must either tolerate and understand these needs
or leave the relationship. If you choose to remain with a person
with spatulate hands, keep yourself physically fit and attractive
and learn new tricks as the years go by. Your partner is likely to
keep coming back to you no matter how far he or she strays.
The Five Types of Lover 21

Key phrases that describe the owner of spatulate hands

include:

Likes variety and adventure in romance

Often irritable; strong critical tendencies
May lack tidiness in personal appearance
Can get very involved in career and sports
Healthy sexual appetite

The Conic Hand: Lover of Beauty

Unlike the previous hand types, conic or artistic hands (FIGURE 2-7)
fall into the receptive category. They are the hands of people
who are emotional, intuitive, and changeable. This type of hand
is especially common among women.

Appearance

Conic hands exhibit the following characteristics:

Slightly tapered at the base of the palm

and at the tips of the fingers
Fine skin texture, denoting sensitivity
and a love of beauty.
Soft yet springy consistency; flexible
thumbs and fingers
Usually a great number of fine lines,
including lots of vertical lines, in addition
to the four major lines

People with conic hands are governed by — FIGURE 2-7: Conic hand
impulse and first impressions. Unlike those with
squarish hands who are ruled by reason, conic-handed people
are sentimental, intuitive, impulsive, capricious, and romantic.
 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Inconsistency can be a major problem. They often begin a

project with great enthusiasm and then leave it for someone else
to complete, especially if their hands are flexible. Although they
tend to support the efforts of others, they shift loyalties often
and have difficulty with commitment.
Creativity is high. If their hand is firm and the lines are well
formed, their creative energies are channeled mostly toward
intellectual pursuits. When their hand is bland and fat, they
have a strong sensuous nature. Rich foods, money, abundant sex,
and comfortable surroundings are among their primary needs.

Sex and the Conic Hand

Their sex lives must have sentimental and romantic over-

tones. They will enjoy sex to the fullest only if the act is sur-
rounded with mood-producing stimuli such as music and
perfume or visual excitement such as erotic clothing.
If your partner has a conic hand, you must create a mood
that inspires love and excitement. Try not to become caught up
in routine. Be spontaneous. Make everything you do seem
romantic and enticing.
Here are some general phrases that describe a person with
conic hands:

¢ Emotional, intuitive, changeable

° Idealistic, with high aspirations in relationships
¢ Materialistic and opportunistic
* Needs constant stimulation; easily bored
¢ Dislikes routine and predictability in relationships
* Can be reached on an emotional level
° Loves the unexpected compliment or gift
* Sensuous, especially if hand consistency is thick
The Five Types of Lover 23

The Psychic Hand: Painfully Idealistic

The psychic or intuitive hand (FiGuRE 2-8) is relatively rare but
quite distinctive. It is essentially an extreme version of the conic
hand.

Appearance

Psychic hands exhibit the following characteristics:

° Beautifully formed; long, graceful fingers

with pointed tips.
* Soft, yielding consistency
¢ Flexible thumb and fingers
¢ Very fine skin texture
¢ Many lines on the palm
* Oval, narrow, long nails (When seen from
the back, a lot of skin is visible along the
borders of the nail.)

Like people with conic hands, those with FIGURE 2-8: Psychic
hand
psychic hands are very sensitive and have a
strong interest in beauty. They also have a tendency to be high-
strung and impressionable. Many people with this type of hand
have strong psychic ability.
People with psychic hands are motivated by their deepest
feelings. They are highly creative and possess a strong imagi-
nation. Common sense is not one of their primary attributes,
and they often have trouble dealing with the “nuts and bolts”
of life.
Being grounded in the material world is important for these
people. While they need to deepen their love of beauty and
their innate interest in spiritual matters, they also must learn
24 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

how to function in the everyday world. For that reason, strong

and steady friends are needed to help them deal with life’s prac-
tical matters.

Sex and the Psychic Hand

The owner of the psychic hand (most often a woman) ts

highly sensitive, very idealistic in love, and appreciates all that
is beautiful and refined. Her aspirations are more spiritual and
romantic than practical and down-to-earth.
A person with psychic hands needs to commit. She is often
an inspiration to others and wants to help them become better.
However, she often places her partner on a pedestal, and as a
result experiences frequent disillusionment. If your partner has
psychic hands, be very sensitive to her needs and offer protec-
tion and support. Allow her to rely on you and don’t let her
down.
Key phrases that describe a person with psychic hands
include:

¢ Very giving to friends and lovers

* Requires constant love and reassurance
¢ Hates arguments and confrontation
* Strong need for security
Compatible with practical, realistic, but sensitive
partners

The Philosophical Hand: An Inquiring Mind

Although not one of the “pure” hand types that make up the
normal classification of hand shapes, the philosophical hand is
easily recognized because of its long palm and long, bony
The Five Types of Lover ap

fingers with large joints and long nails (FiGuRE 2-9). Owners of
this hand have an analytical and inquiring mind. They will
examine everything, try everything, and then
form their opinion. This type of person acquires
their convictions through meditation and analysis.
They are independent and do not depend on
hearsay or casual statements. Whenever possible,
they get the information firsthand.

Sex and the Philosophical Hand

Communication is the key to happiness with

a partner who has philosophical hands. Learn to eycype 2-9:
talk with them about your problems and your Philosophical hand
feelings, and be open to hearing from them—as
well. People with philosophical hands love to analyze, and it
often takes them a long time to make decisions.
For this reason, they are rarely spontaneous, especially when
it comes to sex and romance. While this can be frustrating
(especially if you possess smooth, short fingers), becoming
aware of this psychological trait can bring about greater under-
standing and compassion.
Common characteristics of an owner of philosophical hands
include:

Often complex and contradictory

Curious and interested in others
Not easily deceived; naturally skeptical
Retains individuality in relationships
Often very sensitive to criticism
Patient and considerate of others
Enjoys being alone
 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

The Mixed Hand

Very few hands actually conform to any of the previous hand

types in their pure form, although one type may predominate.
For this reason, we have a fifth classification—the mixed hand—
that can provide an important frame of reference for an accurate
hand analysis.
By definition, the mixed hand (FicuRE 2-10) contains aspects
found in one or more of the previously described types. The
hand may be primarily squarish, yet one or two fingers may be
spatulate in shape. The overall shape of the hand
may be conic, yet it also may contain elements
found in the more practical square hand.
The basic shape of the hand should serve as
the foundation of a careful hand analysis. The fin-
gers, mounts, and lines—as well as modifiers like
hand consistency and size, skin texture, flexibility,
and skin ridge patterns—can often provide more
specific information regarding character analysis
and individual life expression.
FIGURE 2-10: Mixed For these reasons, we need to take a// factors
hand
into account when we study a hand, and evaluate
the relationships among its various aspects. Although the
process may appear bewildering at first, you can accomplish this
goal by cultivating intuition and patience. After some practice,
a few minutes of careful observation will enable you to develop
a basic “gestalt” of the hand.
Chapter 3

The Hands: Consistency,

Flexibility, and Size

In this chapter, we'll discuss:

e Thick or thin

e Rough skin or smooth

e Flexible or stiff

e Size: how much does it matter?

e Wide or narrow

e Right-handed or left
28 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Ithough the “Five Types of Lover” approach offers us

Ae glimpses into the basic psychological types of
most individuals, there are other important modifiers that help
us achieve a deeper understanding of sexual personality. These
modifiers have to do with the thickness and flexibility of the
hand, the consistency of the skin, hand size, and the actual pro-
portions of the hand. It can also matter whether you're right-
handed or left.

How Hard? How Thick?

Both the thickness and consistency of the hand are primary

indicators of the amount of sexual energy we have at our dis-
posal. However, other factors—including the size of the mount
of Venus and the depth of the primary lines discussed later
on—can strengthen or neutralize these basic characteristics.
Hand thickness is somewhat determined by the individual’s
physique, but the observations discussed in this section
still apply.

Thin Hands

A person with thin hands may lack the warmth of heart

necessary for a deep romantic attachment. The relationship may
still be strong and lasting, but passion, romance, and sensuality
are probably lacking.

° Very flat or soft hands indicate a low sex drive. The indi-
vidual tends to tire easily, lacks warmth, and more likely wants
to be “given to” rather than to give in a relationship.
° Thin and hard hands indicate a stubborn, inflexible, and
calculating person. A strong withholding current is a major
identifying trait.
The Hands: Consistency, Flexibility, and Size 29

Through Thick and Thin

When a man has a thick hand with coarse skin texture and his mate has a
thin, fine hand, chances are good that their relationship will be neither sex-
ually nor emotionally compatible. However, by being aware of these dif-
ferences in their hands and sexual personalities, each partner could work
on becoming more understanding of the other's sexual and emotional
needs and could strengthen the relationship as a result.

Thick Hands

A thick hand reveals the opposite qualities: an abundance of

warmth, energy, and sensuality.

° Thick and soft hands indicate a love for food and drink in
addition to sex. Setting limits on these pleasures can be difficult,
and weight control is often a problem.
* Hard and inflexible hands accentuate a stubborn, cold, and
unbending emotional quality. These people tend to be sexually
aggressive, emotionally demanding, and difficult to be with.
They think mostly about their own pleasure, especially if their
heart line is short or free from islands and branches.
© Thick hands that have an elastic consistency indicate a warm,
sensuous individual with an abundance of sexual energy. This
type of person enjoys a balance between receiving and giving
pleasure, and generally has a good potential for establishing and
maintaining good relationships.
¢ Hands of medium thickness indicate an energetic and warm
person. Like his or her attitude toward food and drink, the
sexual keyword is balance. This person often tends not to be celi-
bate or disinterested in sex, yet sex would not normally occupy
all (or even most) of his or her thoughts and energy.
30 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Skin Texture and Sex

The texture of the skin is another important factor in deter-

mining psychosexual makeup, and it should play an important
role in any careful hand analysis.
° Smooth fine skin (FIGURE 3-1) indi-
cates a strong degree of sensitivity and
impressionability. Sex and sexual rela-
tions are often elevated to a romantic,
idealized level. The person is more
likely to respond to imagery and fan-
tasy in sexual situations and can more
easily be affected by the energy,
thoughts, and words of the partner.
* Coarse skin texture (FIGURE 3-2)
indicates a less sensitive nature. The
person tends to respond more to
FIGURE 3-1: Smooth, fine skin purely physical drives and stimuli,
texture especially if a physical heart line is
present in the hands. The individual is
more likely to lack tact and sensitivity
in sexual situations and may not always
be receptive to a partner’s needs.
° Medium skin texture indicates
a moderate degree of sensitivity and a
balance between the receptive and
active principles. While open to
impressions and responsive to the
feelings and needs of their partner,
individuals with medium skin texture
can also assert themselves in a rela-
FIGURE 3-2: Coarse skin texture tionship in a healthy way.
The Hands: Consistency, Flexibility, and Size ak

Flexibility
The flexibility of the hand in general and the thumb in partic-
ular can also tell us much about the way we respond to others
in relationships.

° Firm hands hardly bend back under pressure. Although

this may reflect a healthy amount of vital force and strong
sexual energy, the owner tends to be careful with feelings and
may withhold emotionally from a partner until he or she feels
safe and comfortable. This person is usually reliable, rarely
impulsive, and often needs time to adapt to new ideas and unex-
pected situations.
© Hard, inflexible hands indicate a stubborn, rigid personality.
Owners of rigid hands are set in their ways and have more diffi-
culty accepting new ideas and adapting to unfamiliar situations.
¢ If the person also has a stiff thumb, it’s a sign of material
and emotional stinginess. On the positive side, however, a person
with a rigid hand and thumb is reliable and emotionally stable.
If you had a date with such an individual, he or she would be sure
to meet you at the appointed place exactly on time!
* The more flexible the hand, the greater the ability to
adapt. This person has an increased capacity to be open to new
ideas and to flow with new situations. The capacity to adapt is
essential to a successful relationship, and people with flexible
hands do it well. They are often more amenable to sharing their
problems in a relationship. They are also more approachable
and tend to be less defensive than people with stiff hands. By
the same token, they are frequently less predictable. The person
with flexible hands will probably not arrive on time for a date,
despite having the best of intentions. When the owner of a flex-
ible hand has a thumb that bends back easily, generosity—both
with material objects and feelings—is strong.
 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

* People with extremely flexible hands have hands that bend

easily back to a 90-degree angle or more. They can be very
exciting in a relationship. They are known for their spontaneity,
adaptability, and generosity and can often be unpredictable and
temperamental. However, if the thumb is weak and supple and
the heart line is long and chained, sentiments can easily shift
and a committed monogamous relationship often becomes dif-
ficult to maintain.

Hand Size

Although popular history has taught that the size of a man’s

open hand (measured from the tip of the thumb to the tip of the
little finger) corresponds with the size of his genitals, this has
not been verified. For our discussion on palmistry and sexuality,
suffice to say that the relative size of the hand to a person’s body
size, weight, and bone structure is more an indication of char-
acter than of the size of sexual equipment.
Generally speaking, people who have small hands:

° View life on a grand scale

e Are intuitive and spontaneous and have a basic aversion
to details, unless their fingers are knotted
* Tend to be more emotional than mental in relationships
and are guided more by their hunches than by reason
* Tend to be dramatic lovers and are drawn primarily to
the purely erotic and physical aspects of sex

On the opposite scale, people with /arge hands:

° Appear to gravitate toward the small things in life

* Tend to be more analytical and mental in their relation-
ships with others and often rely on concrete details and
facts when it comes to creative problem solving
The Hands: Consistency, Flexibility, and Size 28)

e Tend to be attentive lovers

¢ Probably take a more relaxed, laid-back approach to
lovemaking than people with small hands

The Wide and the Narrow

Unlike the apparently contradictory aspects of small and large

hands, narrow and broad hands reveal corresponding aspects of
personality. When viewed in the context of love, sex, and rela-
tionships, narrow hands reflect a narrow, restricted, often dog-
matic view of life. Their owners tend to be rather conventional
in sexual matters and not very interested in new ideas and
trends regarding sexuality and relationships. If a narrow hand is
stiff and hard, the personality will probably be rigid and inflex-
ible. People with broad hands tend to be more open-minded.
They are receptive to new concepts and trends and open to
other points of view.

Right or Left?
When we examine a person’s hands, we need to discover which
of the two is dominant. The nondominant or passive hand
reflects our past and our innate potential, while the dominant or
active hand shows primarily what we are doing with our life at the
moment. Very often the hands reveal marked differences between
our innate potential and the degree to which it is being fulfilled.
Generally speaking, the dominant hand is the one we write
with. In the rare instances where an individual is ambidextrous
and writes with both hands, both hands must be observed
together. When the hands are different, it is important to deter-
mine which of the hands is dominant; often that can be accom-
plished by asking questions as the reading proceeds.
Chapter 4

Stories the Fingers Can Tell

In this chapter, we'll discuss:

Flexibility, length, and width

Knuckles and phalanges

Types of fingertips

What your fingerprints reveal

The importance of the thumb

The other fingers: Jupiter, Saturn,

Apollo, and Mercury

Spacing between fingers

Checking your nails

36 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

hile the mounts and basic form of the hand provide the
V4 groundwork needed to help determine character, the
shape, size, and relative position of the fingers offer a wealth of
more specific information concerning the personality and major
avenues of sexual expression. In some cases, the fingers can tell
us more about a person than any other single aspect of the hand.
When studying the fingers, be sure to consider each finger by
itself and as an integral part of the hand. In addition, it’s impor-
tant to understand the relationship of each finger to the others.
We can determine the finger’s relative strength in the hand
by opening the palm completely, with fingers held together. If
the fingers tend to lean toward one in particular, that finger is
the dominant finger of the hand and provides the keynote of
the individual’s character.
Before we discuss the characteristics of each individual
finger, it is important to become familiar with the appearance
of the fingers in general.

Flexibility
Like the hands, the degree of flexibility of the fingers provides
important clues to the person’s character and ability to adapt.
Ideally, the fingers should arch gently backward, revealing a
capacity to adjust easily to new ideas and situations. When the top
phalange of the finger bends back as well, strong creative talent is
present. When the tip of the Mercury, or little finger, bends back,
for example, it is a sign of writing or public-speaking ability.

Length and Width

The length of the fingers must be judged in relation to the
length of the palm. A balance exists if the size of the middle, or
Saturn, finger is the same length as the palm itself.
Stories the Fingers Can Tell os

° Generally speaking, short fingers (FIGURE 4-1)

reveal people who are intuitive, impatient, and
impulsive; they are also able to quickly grasp the
essential points of an issue or situation. In rela-
tionships, they can quickly understand the
essence of an issue or problem and are able to per-
ceive hidden meanings within a conversation.
Unless their fingers are knotted, they also tend to
overlook details.
FIGURE 4-1: Hand with
° Long fingers (FIGURE 4-2) indicate opposite short fingers
qualities. Patience and a love of detail and analysis
are common traits of long-fingered people. They
like to focus on the minutiae of daily life, and they
tend to relate to the world in more of an intellec-
tual (as opposed to an intuitive) way. Long fingers
often promote an introspective nature, with the
tendency to hold grudges and harbor resentment.
* People with thick, fleshy fingers are sensual
by nature: they enjoy luxury, comfort, good food,
and lots of sex. FIGURE 4-2: Hand with
° Thin fingers tend to reveal a more intellec- long fingers
tual person who is often removed from the world
of sensual pleasure. They are more likely to enjoy
reading the Kama Sutra rather than actually
trying out the positions.

Knuckles

The finger joints also need to be considered in

evaluating the type of finger a person presents.

* Smooth fingers (FIGURE 4-3) lack developed FIGURE 4-3: Hand with
joints; people with smooth fingers tend to be smooth fingers
38 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

intuitive and impulsive. They are often impatient with details

and have difficulty breaking down a problem into its compo-
nent parts. Their decisions are based primarily on hunches
rather than on a careful analysis of the facts. In relationships,
they are often in touch with their feelings and find it relatively
easy to express anger, love, or joy.
e If the fingers are short and smooth, impul-
siveness, impatience, and aversion to detail are
accentuated.
° Long, smooth fingers tend to strengthen the
intellectual and analytical aspects of the person-
ality. Decision-making can be slow.
° Knotted fingers that are not due to arthritis
(FIGURE 4-4) reveal a strong analytical mind. Their
owners are rarely seduced by appearances and
FIGURE 4-4:A knotted tend to penetrate deeply into an issue using logic,
finger detail, and analysis. They also tend to be cautious
when it comes to developing new relationships. People with
knotted fingers often lack spontaneity and find it difficult to
express their feelings directly.

Mental The Phalanges

The index, middle, ring, and little
fingers are divided into three
parts, or phalanges (FIGURE 4-5).
Practical
The top phalange, at the tip of the
finger, is that of mental order. The
Material
middle phalange is that of prac-
tical order, while the bottom pha-
FIGURE 4-5: The three phalanges of the lange is called the phalange of
finger material order.
 fl
Coe
Stories the ee!
Can Tell LT ee.

¢ When the top phalange is the longest of the

three, it indicates that thinking absorbs most of
the person’s attention.
° A long middle phalange shows that the pri-
mary keynote—as expressed by the particular
finger’s significance—is action.

f
° A long, thick phalange of material order
reflects that the person is more grounded in the
material or instinctual aspects of life, such as
FIGURE 4-6: Squarish
money, goods, or people. Remember that the finger
comparative length of the phalanges may vary
from finger to finger.

Fingertip Types
Fingers come in five basic shapes. Each shape
reveals a specific “core quality” of the person-
ality. Most hands have several types of fingertips,
so look at the qualities governing each individual
finger as well as the finger’s basic form. FIGURE 4-7: Spatulate
* Sguarish fingertips (FIGURE 4-6) reveal order finger
and regularity. Perseverance, foresight, structure,
and organization are strong. People with squarish
fingertips have a capacity for rational, decisive
action.
° Spatulate fingertips (FIGURE 4-7) reveal an ]
energetic, active, and impulsive person. Owners
of spatulate fingers tend to be adventurous, self-
confident, and down-to-earth in their approach (1)
to life.
* Conic fingertips (FIGURE 4-8) show a recep- FIGURE 4-8: Conic
tive and sensitive nature. People with conic fingers finger
40 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

tend to respond strongly to outer stimuli; they are

governed by impulse and first impressions.
© Pointed or psychic fingertips (FIGURE 4-9) are
I)
somewhat rare. They reveal strong tendencies
toward being affected by the external environ-

(1) ment and indicate a dreamy, intuitive, or inspira-

tional type of mind.
¢ Round fingertips (FIGURE 4-10) are the most
common. They reveal an adaptable, well-
FIGURE 4-9: Psychic rounded, and balanced personality. People with
finger
rounded fingertips are often active yet receptive,
mental yet emotional.

: Fingerprints
Even if you are not wanted by the FBI, your fin-
gerprints are important, at least to palmists. They
represent the most basic and unchangeable ele-
ments of your personality. Although you can
learn to modify the traits fingerprints represent,
FIGURE 4-10: Round you can never be completely rid of them.
finger Scientists have named these fine skin ridges der-
matoglyphics (skin carvings). Several medical texts discuss their
genetic and physiological significance, and dozens of scientific
and medical journals have featured articles about them.
Ridge lines in the skin run all over the palm of the hand, as
well as the soles of the feet. Some form distinct patterns, such
as loops and whorls. Let’s examine some of these patterns and
see how they relate to personality and sexual makeup.
Essentially, there are three basic types of fingerprints: the
whorl, the arch, and the loop. These three types account for
approximately 80 percent of all fingerprint patterns.
Stories the Fingers Can Tell 41

Whorls

The whorl (FicurE 4-11) is the sign of the individualist and

the specialist. A person whose fingerprints are mainly of the
whorl type tends to be an original thinker and
has clearly formed opinions. People with whorls
often seek to carve out their own niche in life
and become experts in some specialized area.
When whorls predominate, the person may
become a “law unto herself” and disregard con-
vention if it gets in the way of her desires. For
this reason, people with lots of whorls are often
sexually adventurous and likely to seek out FIGURE 4-11: Whorl
unconventional sexual situations and expres- fingerprint
sions. They may also be difficult to get along
with because they like to have things their way. They also tend
to dislike others interfering in their personal affairs.
Positive qualities of the whorl include independence, a love
of freedom, and overall ability, while negative traits are a ten-
dency toward isolation, secretiveness, and self-obsession.
If other factors in the hand are present, these people can be
domineering in relationships. Very often a predominance of
whorls can indicate a special talent or ability
that distinguishes the person. While this trait
is often applied to a career, it also can be appli-
cable to the person’s love life.

Arches

The arch (FIGURE 4-12) is a sign of capability

and trustworthiness. People whose fingerprints
are primarily of the arch pattern tend to be FIGURE 4-12: Arch
fingerprint
practical, hardworking, efficient, and good
 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

with their hands. They are likely to be faithful partners and are
more inclined to be monogamous than people with other types
of fingerprint patterns. They also have a talent for being good
with their hands; they’re likely to be talented at giving mas-
sages. People with arch fingerprints are often better able to
express themselves through actions than words.
Positive aspects of the arch include steadiness, realism, and
that wonderful ability to make oneself useful (especially around
the house). Negative traits include emotional repression, a sus-
picious nature, reluctance to accept change, and difficulty
responding to new ideas or unexpected situations. Rigidity in
sexual ideas is strengthened if the hand is rigid or very firm.
Generally speaking, the higher the arch, the more idealistic the
individual.

Loops

The /oop (FiGuRE 4-13) is by far the most common fingerprint

pattern. It represents an easygoing, adaptable, “middle-of-the-
= | road” personality. Owners of hands where loops
SSS
predominate are generally easy to get along
with and able to adapt to new and varied social
situations. They also “tune in” to different
intellectual concepts with little difficulty and
react quickly to changing social situations,
especially if their hand is flexible as well. This
characteristic also makes them easy to get
FIGURE 4-13: Loop along with in a relationship.
fingerprint Positive qualities of the loop include a
flexible personality and a well-rounded view
of things. The primary negative aspect of this pattern is a ten-
dency to lack individuality. Wherever a loop is found, it
Stories the Fingers Can Tell

reflects the basic “middle ground” tendencies

the particular finger represents.

Other Fingertip Patterns

There are also three less common finger-

print patterns: the tented arch, the high loop,
and the “composite” pattern.
FIGURE 4-14: Tented
¢ The tented arch (FIGURE 4-14) earns its arch fingerprint
name from a vertical line in the middle that
looks like a tent pole. Although it still reflects
the qualities of the ordinary arch, it is a sign of
a heightened degree of emotional sensitivity,
idealism, and enthusiasm.
* The high loop (Ficure 4-15) looks like the
normal loop pattern except that it reaches
higher up on the fingertip than a regular loop. It
reveals strong intelligence and an optimistic per-
sonality—certainly a plus for any relationship! FIGURE 4-15: High loop
° The composite pattern is also known as fingerprint
the “double loop” or “twinned loop.” It is com-
posed of two loops curling around each other,
as seen in FiGuRE 4-16. This pattern is a sign of
duality: a natural ability to see both sides of
any issue. However, people with twinned loops
often have difficulty making decisions because
they need to find out every detail before feeling
competent to take the plunge. They may take
forever to make a change in their job or rela-
tionship, especially if the lines of life and head FIGURE 4-16: Composite
are connected at their commencement. fingerprint
 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

A reminder: When studying the fingertips, remember that

strong, clear fingerprint patterns intensify the meaning of each
type and bring out their positive qualities. At times we may
come across eccentric or strangely formed prints that invariably
accompany strange or eccentric personalities.

The Thumb: A Key to Energy

In Hindu palmistry, the thumb is considered so important that
many hand readers restrict themselves to studying the thumb
alone when they analyze character.
In the context of sexuality and relationship,
the thumb relates to our ego strength and our
level of sexual energy and sexual capacity.
Because it permits us to accomplish a wide
variety of tasks in daily life, the thumb also sym-
bolizes our ability to express this energy and
power in the world.
The size of the thumb is an index to the basic
FIGURE 4-17: Long energy level of the individual. Normally, the tip
thumb of the thumb reaches the lower phalange of the
index (or Jupiter) finger.

° A long thumb (FiGURE 4-17) indicates an

abundance of sexual energy in addition to a
forceful personality. Their owners are often ego-
centric and domineering in relationships and like
being the center of attention. This tendency is
strengthened with a large separation between the
Jupiter (index) and Saturn (middle) fingers.
FIGURE 4-18: Short * Individuals with short thumbs (FIGURE 4-18)
thumb tend to be weak-willed and are not known for
Stories the Fingers Can Tell 45

their strong character, especially if the thumb bends back easily

under pressure. They often lack self-confidence and forcefulness
and, as a result, can often be dominated by their partner in a
relationship.

Low-Set or High-Set?

However, before proclaiming a thumb to be long or short,

we need to take into account how the thumb is set on the hand.
In addition to actual length, the angle that the thumb forms
with the rest of the hand is also a good indication

.)
of the existence (or lack of) sexual inhibition.
Remember to compare both hands to find out
whether the person has become more sexually
liberated with age, or if sexual inhibitions have
increased over the years.

© A low-set thumb can easily be positioned at

a 90-degree angle to the index finger, as shown in
FiGuRE 4-19. It reveals a person who is adaptable
FIGURE 4-19: Low-set
and independent and who takes risks. People thumb
with low-set thumbs tend to be unconventional
and spontaneous in their approach to sex and
relationships. Sexual repression and fear of exper-
imentation are minimal, especially if the hands
are flexible and if there is a separation between
the lines of heart and head.
° A high-set thumb (FIGURE 4-20), opening at
a 45-degree angle to the index finger, is a sign of
Victorian sexual attitudes. The person is overly
careful, correct, and withdrawn; he or she is FIGURE 4—20: High-set
either embarrassed over sexual matters or avoids thumb
46 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

them altogether. He or she would probably be described as sex-

ually conservative unless modifying aspects, such as overall flex-
ibility and a separation between the life and head lines at their
commencement, are present.
When the thumb is set at a 60-degree angle, there is more
of a balance between these extremes. Although the person is
more liberated than Victorian, there’s still a fear of “letting go,”
especially if the hand is stiff and the head and life lines are
joined.

Parts of the Thumb

The thumb is divided into three parts (FIGURE 4-21): the nail
phalange, or phalange of will; the phalange of logic; and the mount
of Venus. A primary indicator of our
capacity for love and sexual expres-
sion, the mount of Venus will be dis-
cussed in Chapter 5.

The Phalange of Will

A strong phalange of will—one

wl that is well rounded, long, and
wide—indicates decisiveness, staying
power, and the ability to transform
Mount of Venus
thoughts into deeds. If it is conic-
shaped, there may be a lack of resist-
ance; the person’s energy tends to
FIGURE 4-21: The three phalanges of scatter when confronted with a
the thumb
problem requiring long-term atten-
tion. If it is thin or flat (when viewed from the side), the person
tends to be high-strung and nervous.
Stories the Fingers Can Tell 47

A squarish fingertip indicates the person has a practical,

rational approach to relationships.
A spatulate tip is the sign of a dynamic individual with a zest
for living; things “happen” around this person. His or her approach
to a relationship is based more on sex or affection as opposed to
rational thought.

The Message of the Thumbprint

Certain fingerprint patterns have a special meaning when

found on the thumb.

¢ A whorl on the thumb reveals strong willpower and an

individualistic approach to relationship. The song “My Way”
was probably written by someone with whorls on his thumbs.

a
A Deadly Thumb?
Some people have a thumb with a deformed
will phalange that has a bulbous or clubbed
appearance. Palmists have called it a “mur-
derer's thumb’ (FIGURE 4-22). Although it does wee
not necessarily indicate homicidal tendencies,
this thumb is often a sign of a person who
tends to withhold energy to such an extent that
strong, sudden bursts of temper can result.
People with such thumbs must be treated with
tact and sensitivity. When a clubbed thumb is
found on a coarse hand with reddish skin, the
person can become physically abusive and
even violent in relationships. Check the entire FIGURE 4-22:
hand before arriving at conclusions, however. “Murderer’s thumb’
48 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

° An arch is a sure sign of a practical doer who has a com-

monsense approach to dealing with new relationships or life
challenges.
° A composite pattern reveals a tendency to examine all sides
of an issue, which can lead to delay and indecisiveness.
° A tented arch combines practicality with enthusiasm.
* A loop reveals average middle-of-the-road qualities,
allowing its owner to fit into any social situation. It is by far the
most common pattern found on the thumb.

The Phalange of Logic

The phalange of logic reveals our degree of reasoning power.

Ideally, it should be the same length and strength as the will
phalange, which would indicate a balance between
thought and action.
The longer and thicker the logic phalange, the
more the ego will exert strong control over action.
In extreme cases, constant reasoning can kill
movement altogether. This is especially true if the
thumb joint is knotted. Palmists have interpreted
a thick logic phalange as meaning that the owner
tends to be very frank with others.
FIGURE 4-23: Waisted A waisted logic phalange (FiGURE 4-23) is an
thumb indicator of tact and diplomacy. Others believe that
it means that logic is not a major component of the personality.

Flexibility

Determining the flexibility of the thumb is important in

understanding personality.
Stories the Fingers Can Tell 49

° A supple thumb (Ficure 4-24) bends back at the joint; this

indicates emotional versatility and ease at adapting in social sit-
uations. The person is generous with loved ones, whether with
affection, money, or other gifts. However, such :
generosity is rarely indiscriminate.
¢ When a thumb is extremely flexible (able to
bend back 90 degrees or more), its owner can be
generous to a fault. He or she is likely to be
extravagant with money, especially if the rest of
the hand is flexible as well. Willpower is minimal,
and the person may have difficulty being faithful
in a relationship. |_ eee Se
° A moderately flexible thumb bends back only Ficure 4-24: Supple
slightly under pressure. In a relationship, this thumb
person relies on common sense. While open-
minded and willing to adapt to being with
another person, this person can also be strong-
willed and tenacious when he or she needs to be.
° A stiff thumb (FiGureE 4-25) will not bend
back under pressure. An owner of a stiff thumb
tends to be stubborn and prudent; he or she has
difficulty accommodating other people’s likes
and dislikes. On the more positive side, this
person is generally very stable and highly respon-
sible, and can be relied on for almost anything.
The qualities of a stiff thumb can be offset by a Figure 4-25: Stiff
flexible hand. thumb

Individual Fingers
Now let’s consider each other finger on its own (FIGURE 4-26).
50 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Jupiter: Follow the Leader

The Jupiter, or index, finger represents leadership, ambi-

tion, and the drive to succeed in life. Ideally, it should be the
same length as the ring, or Apollo, finger and slightly shorter
(about one-quarter inch) than the middle, or Saturn, finger.
IfJupiter is longer than Apollo, the ego
is strong, with a healthy amount of
self-esteem. People with Jupiter fingers
Jupiter
like to be in charge; they like to be the
boss. They are natural leaders who like
to take charge in their relationships.
However, a long Jupiter finger (espe-
cially if it curves inward) can reveal a
tendency to be vain, domineering, and
controlling.
To the degree that Jupiter is shorter
than Apollo, there is a corresponding
FIGURE 4-26: The fingers and
their corresponding planets lack of self-esteem and self-confidence.
The person tends to underestimate his
or her talents and accomplishments, especially if the head and
life lines join. The joining of these lines often indicates a con-
cern over what “others” may think. Separation of these lines
modifies this tendency.

° A straight Jupiter finger displays the finest Jupiterian

qualities: generosity, leadership, and warmth.
¢ To the extent that the Jupiter finger bends toward Saturn,
the person tends to be insecure, which often shows up as jeal-
Ousy, possessiveness, and acquisitiveness.
° When this finger is conic or pointed, the person tends to
be idealistic in love.
Stories the Fingers Can Tell al

° A spatulate index fingertip adds a streak of dynamism and

adventure to the personality.
° A squarish tip reveals a pragmatic approach to love.
Fingerprint patterns imply different meanings on Jupiter than
they do on the other fingers.
° A whorl on the fingertip is a sign of individuality and
original thinking. The person may not feel comfortable
sharing private thoughts with others, but he or she is a good
person to confide in if you want someone who can keep a
secret.
¢ An arch reveals someone who has a practical ability to
build, fix, or repair machinery or other objects but who can also
“fix” a situation that isn’t working. The person is also generally
practical and low-key in relationships.
* The presence of a tented arch is believed to increase gen-
eral enthusiasm when dealing with personal goals and inner
beliefs; it also reveals a strong social consciousness.
° A composite print indicates an ability to see all sides of an
issue, and it can lead to ever-changing habits, ideas, and inter-
ests. However, this trait can also lead to indecisiveness when
choosing a specific course of action, such as a decision to get
married or have a child.

Saturn: Balance in the Middle

The middle finger is named for Saturn. It is the finger of

propriety, responsibility, and introspection. It serves as a “bal-
ance finger” between the subconscious aspects of the person-
ality, represented by Apollo (the ring finger) and Mercury (the
pinkie), and the more active, conscious qualities of the thumb
and Jupiter finger.
DZ SEXUAL PALMISTRY

A long Saturn finger reaches high above the other fingers on

either side. It reveals a person who treats life with the utmost
seriousness. People involved with scientific research and busi-
nesspeople who deal with large amounts of money tend to have
long Saturn fingers, although they will probably not be known
for their ability to have fun.
When the finger is unusually short (the same length or
shorter than either the Jupiter or Apollo finger), the owner
tends to be careless and may not take relationships or family
responsibilities seriously. Most of us have a Saturn finger that is
neither abnormally long nor short.

¢ When Saturn is straight, there is a harmonious relation-

ship between will and emotion, as well as a balance between
liking to be with people and wanting to be alone.
¢ When this finger curves slightly toward Jupiter, the person
tends to be generally spontaneous and outgoing, enjoying being
in the company of others as much as possible.
° A slight curve toward Apollo indicates a need to be alone.
This doesn’t mean that the person is antisocial. Although such
people need their own space, they also enjoy social situations
and partnerships.
° A prominent curve or bend toward Apollo (when it is not the
result of arthritis or accident) can indicate chronic melancholy
or depression. When you observe such a formation, take special
care to look for confirming or modifying aspects in the rest of
the hand, particularly on the head line.

Although aloop fingerprint pattern has no special meaning on

this finger, some fingerprints on Saturn have special significance:

° A whorl shows a current of individuality in romantic life,

which can lead the person to get involved with unusual people
or unconventional sexual scenes.
Stories the Fingers Can Tell 53

° An arch reveals a practical attitude toward love, sex, and

relationships.
° A tented arch is believed to add enthusiasm when under-
taking difficult projects.

Apollo: The Ring of Creativity

Like its corresponding mount, the ring, or Apollo, finger

rules creativity, the love of art and music, and the ability to
express ourselves, especially in the public arena. Ideally, the
length of the Apollo and Jupiter fingers should be roughly
equal. Like Jupiter, the Apollo finger should ideally extend as
far as the middle phalange of Saturn, revealing self-esteem, self-
confidence, and a feeling of well-being in the world.

° If Apollo 1s longer than Jupiter, there may be a lack of self-

esteem. In some cases, owners may not stand up for themselves
in a relationship and may be dominated by their partner.
However, this tendency can be modified by a firm hand; a large,
firm thumb; a firm mount of Upper Mars; or head and heart
lines that do not join at their commencement.
¢ People with strong, well-formed Apollo fingers make bright
and interesting companions. They have a flair for fashion and
tend to fit in to social situations.
© Straight Apollo fingers indicate an ability to judge others
quickly and accurately, and relationships are grounded in
reality.
© A ring finger that bends slightly toward Saturn betrays a ten-
dency to overestimate others, which often results in disillusion
when they don’t live up to such high standards.
* According to some hand readers, an Apollo finger that
bends sharply toward Saturn is a sure indication of a gambler and
a libertine.
54 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Mercury: A Little Communication

Mercury, the little finger, rules communication. The longer

the Mercury finger, the greater the ability to communicate with
others, both in public and one-on-one. Ideally, this finger should
reach to the top phalange of Apollo. In some cases, Mercury 1s
set low on the palm, which makes it appear shorter than it really
is. If this is the case, place the Mercury finger over the Apollo
finger of the other hand to determine its proper length.

° A high percentage of successful public speakers, evangel-

ists, actors, writers, dancers, politicians, lawyers, and business-
people have Jong, well-developed Mercury fingers.
° A long Mercury finger is also a sure sign of a good lover,
because such an individual can communicate on an intimate
level as well in the public arena.
° A short little finger can indicate difficulty in relating to
other people, both publicly and privately. These people find it
difficult to make themselves understood and to establish and
maintain close relationships.
° When this finger is /ow-set, sexual matters are a major
keynote in the person’s life.
° A straight Mercury finger indicates honesty, frankness, and
trustworthiness; the person may lack shrewdness or diplomacy,
except when a “waisted” thumb phalange is present. Very often,
this person can be taken advantage by others and is frequently
regarded as gullible or clueless. These qualities are accentuated
in the rare cases when the Mercury finger actually bends out-
ward, away from the hand.
° A slight curving toward Apollo reveals a degree of astute-
ness and diplomacy.
° A sharp bending toward Apollo (not the result of arthritis or
accident) indicates a tendency to be manipulative and even
Stories the Fingers Can Tell »

dishonest. When the hand features a sharply bending Jupiter

finger as well, the individual will stop at nothing to obtain what
he or she wants.

Finger Spacing
When the fingers are held closely together on an open hand, the
individual tends to be somewhat contracted and fearful, and
lacks self-confidence and independence in relationships. The
wider the spacing between the fingers, the greater the openness,
daring, and independence.
When the Jupiter finger breaks away from the rest of the
hand (FiGurE 4-27), leadership and self-reliance are increased. Very
often, a shy, insecure person with a short index finger attempts
to overcome these problems by becoming overly aggressive

Apollo Saturn

Mercury
Jupiter

FIGURE 4-27: A wide spacing

between Jupiter and Saturn,
and between Mercury and
Apollo
56 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

and independent, and it shows up in this manner. People with

this feature like to be the center of attention, sometimes at the
expense of others.
A wide spacing between the Saturn and Apollo fingers can
indicate unconventionality. In some cases, it may also reveal a
split personality that makes it difficult for others to understand
the individual’s true nature.
To the degree that the space between the Apollo and
Mercury fingers is wide, the person is an independent, uncon-
ventional thinker regarding sexuality and relationships (also
FIGURE 4-27). Because such an individual does not conform to
the expectations of society, sexual or emotional problems may
be result. Look to other aspects of the hand for confirming or
modifying traits.

Nails and Your Sexual Personality

Although the fingernails are most useful in medical diagnosis,
they can also help us evaluate character. Ideally, the nails should
be slightly longer than wide, and be slightly curved as opposed
to flat, as shown in FIGURE 4-28.

] ° People with /ong nails are often drawn to

artistic pursuits and like to think and analyze.
° Long, narrow nails, when not modified by
other indicators on the hand, point toward suspi-
_—_—,
ee
cion and selfishness, as well as a tendency to be
——e
calculating and narrow-minded in relationships.
° Broad nails reveal a broad-minded person-
ality and uncritical nature.
¢ Short nails (that are not the result of
FIGURE 4-28: Normal ‘Dail biting) indicate an impatient, often critical
nail person who not only focuses on the perceived
Stories the Fingers Can Tell |

shortcomings of others but also on his or her own faults. This

person often sabotages or downplays his or her talents and pos-
itive character traits, when they deserve recognition and expres-
sion.Nail color is primarily an indicator of sexual vitality.
* People with reddish nails tend to have a strong sex drive
and are more able to express this passion in purely physical
terms. However, they are also prone to flashes of anger and need
to find outlets (other than sex) for their excess energy.
° Bright pink nails tend to modify a strong sex drive, and
their owners tend to enjoy more of a balance between the phys-
ical and emotional expressions of love and passion. Their nails
reveal good circulation, body warmth, and an outgoing, affec-
tionate character.
* People with bluish nails (especially if there are no com-
plaints of poor blood circulation) are somewhat cold and
reserved and have difficulty expressing affection in a physical
way. Although they don’t lack passion and strong feelings of
love, they often need some time to “warm up” in a relationship.
¢ Pale nails—like pale skin—indicate low physical vitality
and low sex drive, unless modified by other hand characteristics,
like a large Venus mount.
Chapter 5

Hand Topography I:
Mounts and Valleys

In this chapter, we'll discuss:

Zones and mounts

Jupiter: self-confidence

Saturn: balance

Apollo: self-expression

Mercury: communication

Mars: determination

Venus: sex and passion

Luna: nurturing
60 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

he topography of our hand can be compared to the moun-

Jee valleys, and plains of Earth. Like the general outline
of the hand discussed earlier, the regions and mounts of the
hand have much to tell about our personality traits, innate
energy level, and how we express ourselves sexually.
The hand is divided into six primary zones and then into
eight mounts (technically known as “thenar elevations”), very
much like the division of a geographic region into counties and
towns. While the six zones provide a general orientation for our
latent capacities and how they’re expressed, the eight mounts
reveal the far more specialized information we need for a well-
rounded psychosexual character analysis.

The Longitudinal Zones

To form the three longitudinal zones, draw one imaginary ver-
tical line from a point between the index and middle fingers
<< aes down toward the wrist, and another
to the wrist from a point between the
middle and ring fingers, as shown in
FIGURE 5-1.
The first division forms the active
conscious zone, which represents the
energy we consciously apply in our
dealings with the material world. As
the region of practical knowledge, it
symbolizes the outward movement of
Balance
of
Zone life and the application of principles in
Conscious
Active
Zone
Subconscious
Passive
Zone
our work, study, and relationships.
The zone located on the opposite
FIGURE 51: The longitudinal zones third of the hand represents our
of the hand hidden energy reserve, or the passive
Hand Topography I: Mounts and Valleys 61

subconscious. It relates more to our innate creativity, emotional

awareness, and instinctual capacity.
The middle division, or zone of balance, serves as a meeting
place where these different energies can blend. This is an area
where we often find the line of Saturn or line of life task, which
moves up from the base of the palm toward the middle finger.
This line speaks of career, movement in life, and the degree to
which we have found our life task or niche in the world.

The Latitudinal Zones

To form the three latitudinal zones (FIGURE 5-2), draw a hori-

zontal line from the tip of the thumb across to a point below the
base of the fingers, and another from —

just above the thumb ball directly

across the palm.
The first division, or the emotional/
conscious zone, represents our active
link with the world around us.
Depending on the mounts that lie Emotional/
Conscious Zone
within this area, it is the zone of emo-
Zone
of Balance
tional expression, inspiration, ambi-
tion, artistic creation, business Instinctive Subconscious
Zone
acumen, and the application of power.
According to palmist Walter Sorell,
this area of the hand has the keenest
z
sense of touch and holds the strongest
FIGURE 5-2: The latitudinal zones of
connection with objects and people.
the hand
The lower region, or znstinctive
subconscious zone, is the zone of the Freudian id and our primary
motivating forces. Depending on the prominence of the mounts
62 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

that lie within it, this zone relates to intuition, imagination,

libido, and our deepest, most hidden desires.
The middle horizontal zone is the practical zone of balance.
As the region of logic, common sense, and reason, it represents
the blending of thought and feeling. It is the area that filters
and absorbs our subconscious drives and helps guide them
toward concrete expression. This zone integrates our aspira-
tions and intellectual abilities with our physical and instinctual
drives.

The Eight Mounts

Each of the mounts (FiGURE 5-3) has a name, and represents the
type of energy that is channeled through that part of the hand.
SS ae They are named after planets,
which are, in turn, named after
Greek and Roman gods and god-
desses. The mounts represent
aspects of our character that are
symbolized by these mythological
beings.
The strength of a particular
Mars | 2 mount depends on its relative size
‘ when compared with the other
Luna if Venus
/rH mounts of the hand. The more
Seen
directly the mount is centered
under the corresponding finger, the
FIGURE soacTna tate ortbanncd greater its strength and influence
on the personality. You can deter-
mine the displacement of the mount by locating its apex. The
apex of the mount is found where the ridges of the skin meet to
Hand Topography I: Mounts and Valleys 63

form a pattern, as seen in FIGURE 5-4. If the apex

of the Saturn mount, for example, is located
more toward the mount of Apollo, it will take on
some of the characteristics of the Apollo mount.
Remember that the strength of a particular .
mount can be modified by other aspects of the FiGURE 5-4: The apex
hand, such as the strength and shape of the cor- Of the mount
responding finger as well as the clarity and
strength of both major and minor lines.

Jupiter: Who's the Boss?

The mount of Jupiter is located beneath the index finger

and is named after Jupiter, or Zeus, the king of the gods. The
essential qualities of this mount reflect the outgoing aspects of
life: generosity, gregariousness, charisma, inspiration, and
magnanimity. The mount of Jupiter also reveals our degree of
self-confidence, our desire to “take charge” (whether inside
or outside the bedroom), and our amount of ambition and
inspiration.
When the Jupiter mount is in harmonious balance with the
other mounts, it represents the positive aspects of Jupiter:
healthy self-assertion, a positive outlook, idealism, and the
desire to move out toward others and help them.
If the mount is wnusually strong and prominent, pride and
ambition play a major role in the person’s life. In relationships,
the person can be overbearing and domineering, and insist on
making all the decisions for both partners.
If the Jupiter mount is deficient or flat, the individual is likely
to have a poor self-image, with a lack of the self-assertion so
necessary in a balanced relationship. Unless modified by other
64 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

aspects, the person feels awkward in social situations and has

difficulty establishing healthy relationships.

Saturn: The Balancing Act

The mount of Saturn is named after the god Saturn, the

judge, and is found under the middle finger. While Jupiter rep-
resents the outgoing aspects of life, Saturn is more representa-
tive of the inward, self-directed side of the personality. As a
balancing force in the human personality, it helps us sift
through life’s often conflicting currents, influences, and desires
so that we can deal with them in a rational way.
A normal mount of Saturn reveals a lover of independence
and solitude, who is able to balance a desire to be alone with the
need to share the company of others. A medium-size mount of
Saturn favors fidelity, constancy, self-awareness, prudence, and
emotional balance, along with the ability to study and explore
new ideas.
A highly developed Saturn mount often accentuates and distorts
Saturn’s essential qualities, especially if modified by other fac-
tors in the hands. Prudence can yield to fearful withdrawal, and
healthy introspection can be overtaken by a tendency to be overly
analytical and too self-absorbed. A strong mount can be found
on many people who are rigid, taciturn, and defensive by nature.

Apollo: Love of Self-Expression

Apollo is the god of power and self-expression, and _his

mount is located under the ring finger. People with a well-
developed Apollo mount make charming and interesting com-
panions, as well as good sexual partners. Be sure to check the
mount of Venus for collaborating or modifying information.
Hand Topography I: Mounts and Valleys 65

A medium-size mount of Apollo reveals a deep love of beauty

and strong creative ability. This creative ability need not be
restricted to art or music but can include cooking, acting,
writing, and design. If a person has an attractive home or
dresses well, chances are that he or she has a well-developed
mount of Apollo.
Like the mounts of Jupiter and Saturn, a very darge mount of
Apollo can both strengthen and distort its most basic qualities. A
preoccupation with pleasure, wealth, or fame is often revealed by
a very prominent Apollo mount. A strong love of beauty can lead
to a devotion to superficial appearances and a lack of engagement
with life. Vanity and self-indulgence can replace a natural desire
to look after our appearance and take good care of ourselves.
When this mount is weak, the individual is lacking in the
essential Apollonian qualities. Instead of being exciting and
filled with beauty, the person’s life is ascetic, boring, and flat.
Deficiency in this mount can also indicate a low sex drive.

Mercury: Communication

In ancient Greece, Mercury was the messenger of the gods.

The mount of Mercury, located under the little finger, rules
communication.
A well-developed mount of Mercury—especially when accom-
panied by a long finger—points toward oratorical skill and the
ability to communicate with both individuals and groups. (It’s
no accident that most famous actors, diplomats, and public
speakers possess a strong mount of Mercury.) Like a long, well-
developed Mercury finger, a good mount increases our ability to
relate to our partner verbally, emotionally, and sexually.
A small, flat mount of Mercury—especially if accompanied by
a short or weak finger—treveals a reduced ability to communicate
66 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

with others on a one-to-one basis,

especially in the context of sex and
romance.
A series of small vertical lines on the
mount of Mercury (FIGURE 5-5) are
known as Samaritan lines. Often
found on the hands of physicians,
nurses, therapists, and other members
of the “helping” professions, they
indicate natural healing ability.
People whose hands feature these
lines tend to be nurturing and caring
FIGURE 5-5: Samaritan lines onthe in relationships and often instinctively
mount of Mercury attract people who need their help.

Mars: Standing Tall and Holding Firm

There are two mounts of Mars on the hand. Both reflect the
qualities of Mars, the god of war. These mounts speak of the
desire to survive, to move forward, and to overcome obstacles
and difficulties.
The upper mount of Mars is located just under the mount
of Mercury and symbolizes determination and resistance. When
well formed and hard to the touch, it reflects a person who is both
courageous and stubborn and who resists being used or manip-
ulated by others.
A small or soft apper mount reveals a lack of valor and resist-
ance. When found on a soft and flexible hand, the person is
easily pushed around and has difficulty standing up for his or
her rights. When extremely large and hard, violence and bru-
tality may well show up in the individual’s character.
Hand Topography I: Mounts and Valleys 67

Unlike the upper mount of Mars, which symbolizes passive

resistance, the lower mount of Mars reveals the more active and
outgoing Martian qualities. Found between the mounts of
Jupiter and Venus, it often appears as a small lump located just
inside the thumb joint.
A well-developed mount indicates strong self-assertion and
the courage to face life’s challenges and take the initiative in
social situations. When this mount is /arge, hard, and reddish, the
person has a strong temper and can be violent or abusive toward
others.
When this large mount is accompanied by a large mount of
Venus, there is also strong sexual passion. A small or deficient
mount indicates a basically quiet, passive, and introverted indi-
vidual who rarely gets angry with others.

Venus: Love! Sex! Passion!

Named after the Roman goddess of love, the mount of

Venus is the primary indicator of love, passion, and sex drive in
the hand. It speaks of vitality, the capacity for friendship and the
ability to love.
Ideally, the mount of Venus comprises the thumb ball and is
outlined by a widely sweeping life line. On most people, this
mount takes up approximately one-third of the palm and
should not be too hard, too bland, or too heavily lined. A good
Venus mount should be smooth and firm to the touch, higher
than the other mounts in elevation, and slightly pink in color.
A normal-size mount of Venus reveals warmth, vitality and
energy. It shows joie de vivre and the ability to love and be
loved. A well-formed Venus mount also strengthens the life line
and reveals a strong capacity to resist disease.
68 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

When the mount is excesszvely large in relation to the other

mounts, there is an abundance of physical passion, with a large
appetite for sex.
Strong grilles on the mount accentuate physical passion and
sexual interest, even to the point of being obsessive. Some
palmists claim that strong grilles are a sure sign of the compul-
sive masturbator. When the mount is also hard, this passion can
easily spill over into aggression and brutality, especially if the
mount is reddish in color and the texture of the skin is coarse.
When the mount is small and bland, there is a general lack of
vitality and sexual power. Although the person may well have
strong feelings of love and passion, they are not expressed pri-
marily through sex and physical contact.
A small, flat, or weak Venus mount can also reveal a person-
ality that’s somewhat lethargic and cold, especially if the life
line cuts through the Venus mount.
Very often a strong love affair can actually increase the size
of this mount, while prolonged periods of loneliness can
decrease it.

Luna: Instinctive and Nurturing

Located opposite the mount of Venus just above the wrist,

the mount of Luna represents the source of the receptive, pas-
sive, and emotional aspects of the personality. It is the home of
our subconscious impressions and unconscious drives, our
instincts and imagination. Ideally, this mount should be broad
and lightly rounded in shape. It points to an interest in religion
and mysticism and to a desire to perceive more than meets
the eye.
People with medium-size lunar mounts let their instincts
guide them in relationships more than mental reasoning,
Hand Topography I: Mounts and Valleys 69

especially if small lines of intuition move diagonally up this

mount toward the center of the hand.
The stronger and more prominent the mount, the greater the
imagination and subconscious drives are, especially if the head
line slopes downward towards its center. Intuition is enhanced,
along with the potential for creation.
A large mount of Luna can also reveal a strong desire to pro-
tect and nurture others, especially if accompanied by a series of
short vertical lines (known as “Samaritan lines”) on the Mercury
mount.
If a large lunar mount is accompanied by a long, strong
Jupiter finger, the person’s protective instincts can express
themselves by wanting to control others “for their own good.”
It also can be a sign that its owner tends to be too realistic,
unimaginative and dull. If the Venus mount is small as well, the
person may be detached and aloof in relationships. Be sure to
examine the entire hand for confirming or modifying aspects.
Chapter 6

Hand Topography Il: Lines

In this chapter, we'll discuss:

e Qualities of lines

e The most important feature: The life line

The heart line and the girdle of Venus

Head lines and Simian lines

Lines of achievement, beauty, and health

Signs of travel and intuition

How long a relationship?

How many children?

Patterns for charisma, seriousness, humor,

and vanity
 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

e can compare the lines of the hand to the major

highways and country lanes on a roadmap. On the
hand, lines indicate our major talents and energies, our
capacity to manifest these talents in life, and the probable
directions these talents and energies will take us. In essence,
the lines of the hand form a natural map of our life’s course,
while allowing for occasional detours and changes in direc-
tion according to our free will.
Even though hand analysis dates back some 5,000 years,
hand readers are still not certain why the lines exist as they
do. However, over the centuries a reliable system has
evolved that helps us understand our physical constitution,
mental and emotional characteristics, sexuality, creative
ability, and the major influences that affect our lives, as well
as probable travel, relationships, healing ability, psychic
power, and the degree to which we are fulfilling our major
goals in life.
The lines of the hand (known scientifically as flexion
creases) not only reveal the past and the present, they also
provide important insights into probable future events
and life trends. The major lines of the hand are shown in
FIGURE 6-1.
Nor do we fully understand how the lines are formed.
Some feel that they are “rivers of energy,’ which come
through the fingers and into the palm. Others believe that
the lines are affected by messages from the brain to the
nerves that are connected to the skin of the hand. We do
know that—along with skin ridge patterns like finger-
prints—the three major lines of the hand (life, head, and
heart) first appear within several months after conception
and are subject to genetic influences and other factors
Hand Topography II: Lines ie)

FIGURE 6—1: The major lines of the hand

74 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

relating to the fetal environment during pregnancy. However,

while the skin ridge patterns usually remain mostly the same,
the lines in the hand often change throughout our lifetimes.
We also know that the form and number of lines are not
dependent on hand movements, nor are they related to what
we do for a living. Yet it is true that a person who sits at the
computer all day will often have more lines than someone
who performs heavy manual labor.
In rare cases, the lines of the hand can change in a matter
of weeks, although most changes can be seen every few years.
They are affected by “stressors” in life (such as exposure to a
dangerous virus or drug abuse) and by changes in attitude
and behavior. Learning how to meditate, giving up smoking,
or devoting more time and energy to making a relationship
work can alter the lines of the hand dramatically.

Line Quality and Quantity

Ideally, lines should be clear and well defined, and have a
color complementing that of the skin, whatever the person’s
racial heritage may be. The line’s depth and width should be
even. A particularly deep line reveals excessive energy, while
a broad, shallow line indicates a lack of strength and focus.
In general, the stronger the line, the stronger its influence.
The number of lines on the hand is also important. An
abundance of lines, as shown in FIGURE 6-2, indicates hyper-
sensitivity and nervousness. It can also show that the indi-
vidual has many paths in life through which to express his
or her talents. Having few lines on the hand, as seen in
FiGure 6-3, generally indicates limited sensitivity and few
channels for life expression.
Hand Topography II: Lines 1S

FIGURE 6-2: Hand

showing an
abundance of lines

FIGURE 6-3: Hand

showing few lines
76 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

FIGURE 6-4: Splintering FIGURE 6-5 A AND B: Lines of influence

or splitting of a line

Before we go into detail about each of the

—

lines, we need to become familiar with several

important line formations:
° Splintering or splitting of a line (FIGURE 6-4)
dissipates its strength and focus. In some cases, a
split indicates a change or a new phase in
a person’s life, so its existence is not necessarily a
negative sign.
-
° Lines of influence (FIGURE 6-5A and 6—5B)
FIGURE 6-6: Islands
are small lines that cross or run parallel to the
major lines. They signify physical or emotional
events that strongly affect the person’s life, like
win-ning the lottery or the death of a parent or
life partner.
¢ Islands (FiGURE 6-6) form where there is
a splitting from a line that reunites with that
line later on. Islands impair the line’s strength
and indicate a lack of focus and a dissipation of
energy.
FIGURE 6-7: A chained ° A chain (FiGuRE 6-7) is composed of many
line islands together, and indicates a prolonged period
Hand Topography II: Lines

«
FIGURE 6-8: A forked FIGURE 6-9: A “dotted” FIGURE 6-10: Lines
line line forming a grille

of vacillation and scattered energy. The line as a

whole is weakened as a result.
° A fork (FiGURE 6-8) appears at the end of
a line where the line splits. Depending on its
location, it either indicates a dissipation of the

¢
basic energies represented in the line, or it
reveals balance and adaptability. A small fork
at the end of the head line, for example, reveals
writing ability.
¢ A dot (FIGURE 6-9) appears as a small col- FIGURE 6-11: Lines
forming a square
ored indentation on the line. The existence of a
dot indicates a physical or emotional setback of some kind,
depending on its color and location.
° A grille (FIGURE 6-10) is formed by numerous fine lines
that crisscross each other. It generally indicates a period of dif-
fused and scattered energy. When found on the Venus mount, a
grille reveals a tendency for sexual excess, especially if the
mount is reddish in color.
* A square (FIGURE 6-N) is formed by four independent lines
that create a rectangle. It is a sign of protection and preserva-
tion and often repairs a broken line.
78 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

The Life Line

The /ife line (known scientifically as the thenar crease) is the prin-
cipal line of the hand. It begins at the edge of the palm between
the thumb and forefinger, and arcs downward around the
mount of Venus. It is our primary indicator of the strength of
our physical constitution and our level of sexual power. This line
records periods of disease, accidents, and other major events
that touch our life, including those that affect our relationships
or sexual expression. It also indicates the possible length of time
we can expect to live. FIGURE 6-12 shows how to estimate time
on the life and other major lines of the hand.
From a sexual point of view, an ideal life line moves down-
ward around the mount of Venus in a generous arc, revealing a
strong capacity to love and a healthy interest in sex. Generally
speaking, the deeper and stronger the line is, the greater the
stamina and sexual energy are.

¢ When the line cuts through the mount of Venus, thus limiting
its size, there is a tendency towards sexual coldness.
° When the life line moves toward the mount of Luna, the
person tends to be restless and may have trouble settling down
with another person.
° Islands can indicate periods of weak or disturbed sexual
energy due to either physical or psychological causes.
° Any influence line that crosses the life line can produce a
similar result, especially if it causes a red or blue dot to form on
the line. A blue or red dot indicates a problem that is physical
in origin, such as an illness, accident, or operation. When no dot
appears where the influence line crosses the life line, the
problem is more psychological in origin.
* Branches can indicate periods of physical or sexual weakness.
Hand Topography II: Lines 79

FIGURE 6-12: Estimating time in years on the major lines of the hand
80 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

i
caale
ed d|
FIGURE 6-13: Long, clear, FIGURE 6—14:Short, clear, FIGURE 6-15: Long, weak
well-marked life line well-marked life line life line

When the life line is long and strong, good health and
sexual energy could be enjoyed until old age. Wherever the
line becomes weak, the person’s energy tends to be low, and
interest in sexual activity is reduced.
The line may express itself in the following ways:

° Long, clear, and well marked (Ficure 6-13): Strong phys-

ical constitution, good health, vitality, resistance to disease,
ability to meet life’s challenges, and probable long life
° Short, clear, and well marked (FIGURE 6-14): Intensity,
good health, and possible short life (See other lines for mod-
ifying factors.)
°* Red and deep: Powerful energy, intensity, and aggressive
or violent disposition (Observe other hand characteristics for
possible modifying factors.)
° Wide, not well marked: Easily influenced by outside stimuli
° Long and weak (FIGURE 6-15): Weak constitution, vul-
nerability to disease, and a tendency toward nervousness and
indecision
Ale
Hand Topography II: Lines 81

FIGURE 6-16: Islands on FIGURE 6-17: Breaks on FIGURE 6-18: Life line
the life line the life line separated from the head
line

° Islands (FiGuURE 6-16): Lapses in health

or general physical weakness; obstacles and
periods of indecision or a lack of focus in life
¢ Breaks (FiGure 6-17): Interruptions in
the tenor of life, either physical, psychological,
or both
© Separated from the head line (FIGURE 6-18):
Impulsive, impatient, self-reliant, and extro-
verted; can be reckless in relationships
FIGURE 6-19: Life line
© Connected to the head line (FIGURE 6-19):
connected to the head
Careful and cautious, takes a long time to line
make decisions. The point where the lines sep-
arate indicates the age of independence from
the family physically and/or psychologically.
In general, the longer the lines are connected,
the longer it takes to make decisions and act
independently.
 4
82 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

| noe
FIGURE 6-20: Life line FIGURE 6-21: Life line FIGURE 6-22: Life line
forming a broad arc hugging close to the moving toward the
around the mount of thumb, cutting into the mount of Luna
Venus Venus mount

© Forming a broad arc around the Venus mount (FIGURE 6-20):

Warm, sensual, and emotionally responsive
° Hugging close to thumb, cutting into the Venus mount (FIGURE
6-21): Inhibited, cold, and unresponsive
° Moving toward the mount of Luna (FIGURE 6-22): Naturally
restless disposition; love of travel and change of scene; can be
difficult to settle down with a partner

The Inner Life Line

This line (known as a sister line) provides added strength and

protection to the life line. It increases vitality and lends support
(either physical or psychological) in the event of an accident,
health problem, or other difficulty.

The Heart Line

Of all the lines in the hand, the heart line is the primary indi-
cator of the way we feel toward others and how we relate to
Hand Topography II: Lines 83

them. In addition to being our emotional barom-

eter in life, the heart line reveals both the
strength and type of our sexual expression.
Indian palmists consider the heart line to be
the most important line in the hand, and, unless
this line is satisfactory, they see no need to study
the palm further. We can then understand why
love and sex is the most important element in
life for Hindus, as shown by the erotic nature of
FIGURE 6-23: The “ideal”
their temple decorations and literature. They heart line
believe that sex not only creates life, it also pro-
longs life. Perhaps that is why the palmists of India call the line
of the heart the line of life.
The ideal heart line (FicurE 6-23) is smooth, of good color,
and relatively free from islands and breaks. It curves slightly
upward and ends between the Saturn and Jupiter fingers, indi-
cating a balance between the mind and emotions. Two or three
small branches would appear at its end, revealing a balance
between sentiment, common sense, and physical passion.

Straight or Curved?

A straight heart line (FiGuRE 6-24) reveals a sensitive per-

sonality. Fantasies, images, and romance are important aspects
of the sexuality of this person, who is primarily receptive in
nature. An intimate dinner with champagne, candles, and quiet
music would be a prelude to passionate sex, which would ide-
ally take place in a comfortable and quiet bedroom with soft
music and satin sheets.
Palmists sometimes refer to this heart line as “feminine”
because strong emotions and receptivity are considered femi-
nine characteristics. However, this type of heart line is found on
84 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

FIGURE 6-24: A straight mental/receptive heart line

both women and men and should be more accurately termed a

“mental/receptive” heart line. People with this type of line—
especially when it ends at or near the Jupiter mount—are more
likely to be guided by romantic feelings than common sense and
are also more likely to be in love with humanity as a whole
rather than romantically committed to a single individual.
Perhaps this is why such a line is also known as a “humani-
tarian” heart line.
A curved heart line (FIGURE 6-25) shows that the person’s
sexuality is more physical and instinctive than mental, and more
assertive than receptive. Sexual expression will probably be
more active and assertive. A person with this type of heart line
is more likely to be influenced by purely physical stimuli and
instincts. Sexual expression will probably be more physical,
active, and assertive. People with this type of line prefer more
rough-and-tumble sex, such as suddenly deciding to make love
on the kitchen table or in the backseat of a car with their
clothes on.
Hand Topography II: Lines

FIGURE 6-25: Heart line curving upward

This doesn’t mean that people with “mental” heart lines

would refuse to have sex in a Ford or that those with “physical”
heart lines dislike making love amidst candles and soft music.
However, the mental and physical heart lines reveal two distinct
types of lover who gravitate toward either a mental/receptive or
a physical/active avenue of sexual expression.
Other major characteristics of the heart line include:

° Long, deep, and smooth, free ofislands and breaks: Strong feel-
ings of affection, balanced by reliable and constant emotions.
A person with this kind of heart line tends to feel secure in love
and is devoted to his or her partner.
° Deep and chained: High sensitivity, feelings of vulnera-
bility in relationships. Such a person has a strong desire for inti-
mate contact, with an equally strong fear of commitment. This
individual needs to be honest about feelings and try to lower
psychological defenses. Otherwise, he or she can be taken for
being aloof and disinterested, which may not be the case at all.
 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

* Chained and islanded: Inconsistency in feelings, with the

emotions often confused and fragmented. When the heart line
is wavy as well, these traits are often more pronounced.
° Ending under Saturn: The person may be quite physical
but on a deep level is ruled more by reason than by feelings. In
general, sexual impulses are strong (especially if the mount of
Venus is large and the heart line is physical in character). If the
heart line is strong and clear with a minimum of branches, the
person may need to develop greater sensitivity
to his or her partner’s needs. However, a small
fork or branch at the end of the line will reflect
a degree of sensitivity to the personality.
© Ending between Saturn and Jupiter (FIGURE
6-26): A healthy balance between the heart and
the head, or between reason and emotion. While
warm-hearted, generous, and sympathetic to
others, this person also has emotional balance
FIGURE 6-26: Heart line and objectivity.
ending between Saturn ° Ending under Jupiter: Emotions tend to
and Jupiter
predominate over reason. Idealized love, senti-
mentality, and a strong degree of loyalty are
common traits. These people can be jealous and
possessive, especially if the Jupiter finger bends
toward Saturn.
° Moving clear across palm, drops to touch head
and life lines (FIGURE 6-27): Often strong conflict
between the heart and the head, which can lead
to much suffering. If the heart line is chained
eed
(and it usually is), these people are very easily
FIGURE 6-27: Long heart
hurt and have usually experienced a difficult
line dropping to the childhood. These feelings are often intensified by
head and life lines a strong girdle of Venus. Such persons are often
Hand Topography II: Lines

romantically attracted to a number of people. They have

trouble coming to terms with their universal affections and
what society expects of them. On the positive side, they are
compassionate and sensitive to others and can easily identify
with those who suffer and who are in need.
° Wide space between heart and head lines (FIGURE 6-28):
Broad-mindedness and an unconventional mental outlook are
indicated, especially if there is a wide separation between the
Apollo and Mercury fingers.
© Narrow space between heart and head lines (FIGURE 6-29):
Secretive, a sense of not feeling at home in the world. People
with this formation often have difficulty expressing their feel-
ings and are frequently self-conscious in social situations.
© Line joining the heart and head lines (FIGURE 6-30):
There is a balance between the intellect and the emotions in
relationship.
© Branches at end of heart line: These add to the individual’s
sensitivity and receptivity.
° Heart line ending in three short branches: This indicates a
balance between sentiment, passion, and common sense.

FIGURE 6-28: Wide FIGURE 6-29: Narrow FIGURE 6-30: Line

space between the heart space between heart joining heart line with
and head lines and head lines head line
88 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

The Girdle of Venus

The girdle of Venus is like a second heart line and is located

between the heart line and the top of the palm. Found on per-
haps 10 percent of the population, its presence indicates sensi-
tivity and emotional responsiveness. To the degree that it 1s
clear and well defined, the more balanced and properly chan-
neled these emotions will be. An excellent example of a well-
formed girdle can be seen in FIGURE 6-31.
As the name implies, the girdle of Venus is associated with
our erotic makeup. Tradition links the girdle of Venus with
strong sexual appetites, especially if it is complemented by a
large mount of Venus. Generally speaking, a girdle reveals a
strong level of emotional response.
People with a girdle of Venus are easily impressed by sug-
gestion and sexual imagery, although the degree depends on the
clarity, length, and depth of the line itself. Check the strength,
direction, and clarity of the heart and head lines.
A short and clear girdle of Venus is a good sign of emotional
alertness. It is usually found in professional entertainers, musi-
cians, artists, and others who are easily moved emotionally, and
it reveals a sense of balance in one’s emotions and sexuality.

FIGURE 6-31: A well-formed girdle of Venus

Hand Topography II: Lines 89

|
Hysteria in History
During the nineteenth century, when “hysteria” was a commonly diag-
nosed condition, palmists called the girdle of Venus the /ine of hysteria.
Today we may consider it as the symbol of the frustrated individual who is
unsuccessfully searching to release his or her energies in sexual activities.
Because this sexual energy is present in those with hysteria and in the ten-
dency toward sexual promiscuity, some palmists call it “the line of the
libido.”

A long and broken girdle (as seen in FIGURE 6-32) can be a dis-
turbing sign. It reveals a person who may have trouble
fulfilling his or her emotional needs. It can also reveal difficulty
in releasing emotional tension. It is also common with individ-
uals who are extremely sensitive and given to temper tant-
rums because they have difficulty releasing pent-up nervous
energies.
Whenever a girdle is broken and poorly defined, the person can
be promiscuous, moody, and self-indulgent. You will need to
examine the entire hand before arriving at such conclusions.

FIGURE 6-32: A broken, poorly formed girdle of Venus

90 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

The Head Line

The lower transverse crease or head line begins at

the beginning of the line of life and moves hori-
zontally across the hand. It reveals our intelligence,
our way of thinking, and our psychological dispo-
sition. The head line also records periods of emo-
tional difficulty, mental illness, and any accidents or
illnesses that affect sexual expression. The direction
FIGURE 6-33: Head of the head line also needs to be taken into account
line drooping toward when considering sex and relationships in the hand.
the Luna mount
° Head line moving directly across palm: The
person has a realistic view of love and relation-
ships and is often conventional, proper, and prac-
tical where romance is concerned. A person with
this kind of line can lack imagination in the bed-
room and can be too devoted to routine and pre-
dictable sexual patterns.
° Head line drooping toward the Luna mount
—
(FIGURE 6-33): The more the head line droops toward
FIGURE 6-34: Long the mount of Luna, the greater the imagination
head line
and fantasy life. While a person with a sloping head
line can be very imaginative in bed, she may also be
out of touch with reality when it comes to resolving
any difficulties that come up in the relationship.
Be sure to look for confirming or modifying factors
in the hand (pay special attention to the shapes of
the fingers) before arriving at any conclusions.

Evaluating the Head Line

FIGURE 6-35: Short A good head line is long, clear, and free of
head line islands, dots and breaks. It should slope gently
Hand Topography II: Lines 91

downward and end with a small fork, denoting a balance between realism
and imagination. This feature is often found on the hands of writers and
is known in palmistry as the “writer’s fork.”
The major characteristics of the head line include the following:

° Long (Ficure 6-34): Intelligence, mental and emotional flexibility,

and a wide range of intellectual interests
° Short (just reaching the Saturn finger) (FIGURE 6-35): Thought
processes limited primarily to mundane affairs
° Strong (FiGuRE 6-36): Good mental ability and focus, ability to
concentrate
© Weak (FIGURE 6-37): Scattered intellect; emotional difficulties,
poor concentration

FIGURE 6-36:
Handprint showing
along, straight,
strong head line

FIGURE 6-37:
Handprint showing
a Weak head line
D2 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

le
FIGURE 6-38: Islanded FIGURE 6-39: Wavy
head line head line

¢ Islanded (FiGuRE 6-38): Difficulty in concentration, worry,

psychological disturbances
© Wavy (Ficure 6-39): Vacillation
© Moving straight across the hand (see again FIGURE 6-36):
Practical, realistic, analytical
© Sloping slightly downwards toward Luna mount: Good
imagination, creative intellect.
Sloping strongly toward Luna mount: Very strong and fertile
imagination; tendency to live in a dream world (If the
line is broken, possible suicidal fantasies.)

|
Hearts and Minds
A good way to interpret the significance of the heart and head lines is to
compare the two. When the heart line is more pronounced than the head
line, the urge for affection and love will outweigh most other interests.
When the head line is stronger and more pronounced, the love nature is
governed more by the mind. Intellectual companionship is often preferred
over sexual companionship.
Hand Topography IJ: Lines D2

The Simian Line

The single transverse palmer crease, known as the Simian line,

exists when the heart and head lines join. It appears as a straight
line across the palm, as shown in FIGURE 6-40.
Having a Simian line doesn’t mean that you're “apelike”; it
merely tends to intensify both the mind and the personality.
People with Simian lines often alternate between one emotional
extreme and the other; their feelings are often in conflict with
their intellect. They are very tenacious, love hard work, and have
a strong capacity for accomplishment. In a relationship, people
with Simian lines make interesting, often volatile partners.
If the skin texture, mounts, and fingers indicate a coarse
personality, the owner of the Simian line can be violent and
unpredictable. Be sure to examine the entire hand carefully
before making your evaluation.

FIGURE 6-40: Simian line

94 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

The Saturn Line

The vertical distal crease, or line of Saturn, is also known

popularly as the fate line, destiny line, career line, or line of
life task. This line normally moves upward from just above
the wrist toward the mount of Saturn. More properly called
the “line of achievement,” it shows the degree to which we
have fulfilled our deepest goals in life. It indicates our level of
personal success and self-fulfillment and records the obsta-
cles, changes, and restrictions that challenge us during our
lifetime.
When it comes to sexuality and relationships, a weak,
broken, islanded, or wavy Saturn line can indicate difficulties in
career or life path, which in turn can strongly affect relation-
ships. Of course, there are people with highly successful careers
and disastrous marriages, and others whose relationships are
wonderful while their careers are on the skids. This is why we
need to examine both the Saturn line and union line (or lines) to
find any correlations between them.
The ability to adapt in relationships is indicated by the
position of the start of the fate line.

° If the fate line begins inside the life line or 1s

closely attached to the life line (as seen in FIGURE 6-41),
the individual was greatly influenced by their
| parent of the opposite sex and will likely transfer
these needs, good or bad, to his or her partner. If
this is a woman’s hand, her partner should treat
her just as a kindly, affectionate father might treat
a favored and much-loved daughter. If this con-
FIGURE 6-41: Saturn
figuration is seen on the man’s hand, his partner
line closely attached should understand his need for nurturing without
to life line being smothering.
Hand Topography II: Lines 95

° If the fate line starts in the center of the palm,

independent of the life line, the individual (whether
male or female) will tend to be psychologically
independent of his or her partner, who will need
to respect their likes and dislikes. Such individuals
demand to be an equal partner in the relationship.
¢ When the fate line rises from the mount of
Luna, as seen in FIGURE 6-42, the person will likely
be greatly influenced by his or her mate. This
FIGURE 6—42: Saturn
person will always love, honor, and cherish, but — |ine beginning within
the partner must deserve this devotion and the Lunamount
respect his or her submissive nature. This submis-
sive tendency will be strengthened if the index finger is short
and the life and head lines are joined at their commencement.
© If the fate line stops short of the head line after rising from the
mount of Luna, the individual will also tend to be submissive.
This person will likely worship his or her partner and will
respond easily to every demand and imposition.
People who lack a fate line tend to be unpredictable. Ideally,
their partner should have a strong fate line and a big ego to help
compliment and guide their impulsive nature.
Note: Trouble awaits a couple who both have faulty fate lines
or no fate lines at all. If both have strong fate lines, both have
the willpower to bring harmony to the relationship.

The Apollo Line

This vertical line, when it appears, is found on the mount of
Apollo. Long Apollo lines are rare; most consist of a small dash
(or a series of overlapping dashes) beginning at the top of the
heart line to slightly below the ring finger. Called the “line of
capability” by the famous American palmist William G.
96 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Benham, the presence of this line indicates the potential for

great achievement in life. This line can also enhance a person’s
charm and the ability to feel comfortable in social situations.
Many well-known artists, musicians, actors, and writers have a
strong line of Apollo, although this line is also found on the
hands of people who simply love music, art, and things of
beauty.

The Mercury Line

Known also as the health line or stomach line, the line of Mercury
indicates the degree of balance in the physical organism and its
basic nervous state. When broken or split, it can reveal poten-
tial stomach and intestinal problems, as well as gynecological
problems in women. The line itself has little bearing on sexu-
ality and relationship, except to the extent that these maladies
can have an impact on sex life.

The Line of Neptune

The line of Neptune, or via /ascivia, is considered one of the
many “minor lines” of the hand (FiGureE 6-43). Also known as
| the “line of poisons,” it is often weak and broken,
and it normally branches off the life line and
moves toward the lower mount of Mars or the
mount of Luna.
Nearly everyone living in the developed
Western world seems to have this line these days.
Its existence reveals a strong sensitivity to drugs,
tobacco, alcohol, and other toxic substances. The
FIGURE 6-43: Lineof ‘line of Neptune is also found on people who are
Neptune dependent on one or more of these substances,
Hand Topography II: Lines py

which can also include caffeine and sugar; those with food aller-
gies or sensitivity to medication often have this line as well.
Like the line of Mercury, this line doesn’t relate to sexuality
and relationship per se, but it can be a sign of addiction to
drugs, alcohol, caffeine, or sugar, which, in turn, can have an
impact on relationships.
Ironically, people with this line on their palms often have a
strong interest in natural therapies like homeopathy and herbal
medicine. This may be because many of them reacted strongly
to food allergies or drugs as children and eventually developed
an interest in attaining good health through natural means.

Travel Lines

Travel lines are small horizontal lines located on the outer edge
of the palm. According to the time of the trip in relation to the
person’s age, these lines move up along the —
mounts of Luna and Mars toward the heart line,
as seen in FIGURE 6-44.
Each line represents an important journey.
The trip may be important of terms of distance,
duration, or its overall impact on the life of the
person involved. For a diplomat who is constantly
traveling all over the world, a month-long visit to
the Far East would probably be of minor impor- .
ate FIGURE 6-44: Travel lines
tance. A two-hundred-mile journey for a farmer
who rarely travels, however, would appear on the hand as a
major travel experience. The more important the journey, the
longer and deeper the line.
Travel lines by themselves have little to do with sexuality. To
the degree that frequent travel can have an impact on relation-
ships, travel lines are important and should be considered in
98 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

relation to other lines in the hand. For example,

if there are many travel lines accompanied by
one or more lines branching from the life line
toward the Luna mount (FiGURE 6-45), the
person is naturally restless and will seek out fre-
quent travel as a remedy for boredom. If both
partners have these characteristics, they might
want to travel together when possible, so nei-
ther will feel frustrated or alone.
FIGURE 6-45: Lines Some people have a line that at first closely
depicting restlessness
resembles a travel line, but it is located only on
the mount of Luna and is deeper and longer
(FiGuRE 6-46). Although hand readers do not
generally agree on its significance, this line
appears to be found on people who are
extremely fond of adventure and risk, whether
physical, psychological, or sexual.

The Line of Uranus

FIGURE 6-46: Line of
adventure The line of Uranus, also known as the intuitive
crescent, begins on the mount of Luna and moves
in a gentle arc toward the mount of Mercury,
sometimes moving parallel to the Mercury or
stomach line (FIGURE 6-47).
While this line rarely exists in its perfect

)
form, it indicates powerful intuition with strong
psychic abilities. It is often found on clairvoy-
ants, mediums, and healers. This line is more
common in its incomplete state, and it appears
FIGURE 6-47: Intuitive as a short line moving diagonally across Luna
crescent towards the center of the palm. If you have this
Hand Topography II: Lines 2?

line on your hand, you are probably an intuitive person who can
trust your hunches in matters of love, sexuality, and relationships.

Marriage in the Hand: Lines of Union

The so-called marriage lines (FiGURE 6-48) are actually lines of
union. They indicate the potential—and possible time frame—
for an important relationship (or relationships) in a person’s life.
Lines of union are located between the heart line
and the Mercury finger, and move horizontally
from the percussion of the hand across the
mount of Mercury.
The earlier the potential relationship, the pee ie
lower on the hand it will appear, while subse-

“|
quent relationships will appear higher on the
mount. Remember that in countries where early
marriages are common (in India, for example,
many marry at fifteen or sixteen years of age), |FIGURE 6-48: Lines of
we would need to revise our estimate accord- UNION
ingly. The length of the line not only indicates the potential life
of the relationship but its importance in the person’s life as well.
This union may be with a man or a woman and may or may
not include sex. In some cases—as in the hands of people in which
a legal marriage is superficial or psychologically distant—the line
of union can indicate a close friend with whom there is a primary,
though not necessarily sexual, relationship. For the most part, the
“union” involved is not with a close relative such as a parent, sib-
ling, or child but with someone who is not a blood relative. I have
often been asked if a union line indicates a relationship with a com-
panion animal like a dog or cat. Even though many of us enjoy
better relationships with our dog than we do with our wife or hus-
band, I tend to confine this line to human relationships only!
100 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

How can we know for certain whether a line of union indi-

cates a traditional marriage? As with understanding other major
aspects of the hand, the reader’s intuition can play a major role
in evaluating the present and potential existence of a marriage-
quality relationship.
Here are a few keys for evaluating the union line:

In general, the /onger the line of union, the longer the

relationship is.
The deeper the line, the more important the relationship
is in the person’s life.
Breaks or islands indicate problems in the relationship
that can lead to its termination.
A branch at the end of the union line means that the part-
ners may gradually drift apart.
When the union line drops slightly toward the end, it is
believed that the person is likely to outlive his or her
mate.
There is no clear sign of age on a union line, as its length
can also reveal the lingering of a relationship on the
person even after it is “officially” over. Again, intuition is
useful here. Major issues such as incompatibility, person-
ality conflicts, lack of commitment, and infidelity are
often reflected by islands and breaks.

Remember that of all the lines of the hand, the union lines
are the most likely to change: Branches can disappear, breaks
can mend, and the line can get longer or shorter in a matter
of months. These changes reflect different attitudes and cir-
cumstances in the person’s life. For that reason, statements
like “This island shows that your marriage will end” may
be both incorrect and potentially harmful to the people
concerned.
Hand Topography II: Lines 101

The handprint in Ficure 6-49, for example, was taken when the sub-
ject was twenty-three years old. He had no real interest in marriage and
doubted that it would ever happen. The line is weak and broken,
revealing the potential for a difficult relationship that would might last
for a couple of years at best. Several years later, he met a woman and fell
in love. After they married, his union line began to change, as seen in
FiGURE 6-50. The fragmented line grew deeper and longer.

FIGURE 6-49: Union

lines at age twenty-
three

FIGURE 6-50:
Union lines at age
twenty-five
102 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

In rare cases, I’ve found union lines that

droop strongly downward or upward, as shown
in FiGureE 6-51. When this occurs, it reveals that
it is difficult for the person to establish a deep
romantic attachment, making it unlikely that a
marriage-quality relationship will ever take
place. An absence of a union line would point to
a similar state of affairs, while tiny, weak union
lines would reveal short and possibly superficial
FiGurE 6-51: Drooping relationships that would not last for more than
union line several years each.

Signs of Splitting Up

From my experience, a union line that splits indicates a

breakup of the relationship or a major transition that will
change both the tenor and direction of the relationship entirely.
This often occurs during the so-called midlife crisis when the
children leave home and cease to be a major focus in the
couple’s life.
According to the Australian palmist Andrew Fitzherbert,
writing about the attachment lines in Palmistry International, a
fork at the end of a union line can reveal a messy divorce. He
believes that, rather than concluding the relationship by mutual
agreement, such a line indicates a separation and divorce filled
with pain, trauma, and recrimination.

Children’s Lines

The existence and location of so-called children’s lines is a sub-

ject of controversy among hand readers. From my experience,
they appear as tiny horizontal lines located beneath the lines of
Hand Topography II: Lines 103

union, as shown in FIGURE 6-52. Like other aspects of the hand,

they reveal only the potential for children, not their presence.
In places like rural Latin America where
contraception and abortion are still relatively ee. 2.44
uncommon, the indication of children on the
hand is fairly accurate. Six children would be
indicated by six tiny lines under the line of
union. In most Western countries like the United
States or Canada, predicting the number of chil-
dren is more difficult. Miscarriages and abortions
would also be recorded as potential children.
In general, children’s lines can be read with
FIGURE 6-52: Children’s
greater accuracy on the hands of women (after
lines
all, it is they who give birth to the children).
However, these lines can occasionally be found
on men’s hands as well.

Rascettes of Venus

The rascettes are lines that appear on the underside of the wrist and
have little to do with sex and relationships. However, each strong,
unbroken line is said to represent thirty years of good health.
Weak, broken, or chained rascettes reveal a weak physical condi-
tion and have been linked to gynecological problems in women.
Be sure to examine other aspects of the hand for confirmation.

Skin Ridge Patterns

In addition to fingerprints, some of us have skin ridge patterns
on our hands.
Because these patterns can provide additional insights into
character, we'll include several of them here.
104 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

The Loop of Charisma

The loop of charisma (also known as the Raja

loop) is found between the Jupiter and Saturn fin-
gers, as seen in FIGURE 6-53. Although rare, it’s a
good pattern to have, since it reveals a strong
ability to lead and inspire others. The loop of
charisma is often found on the hands of suc-
cessful politicians, entertainers, religious leaders,
FIGURE 6-53: The loop and other people who may attract a following of
of charisma admirers.

The Loop of Seriousness

The loop of seriousness (FIGURE 6-54) is

located between the fingers of Saturn and Apollo.
It is far more common than the loop of charisma
and can be found on approximately 20 percent of
all hands.
If you have this loop, you are a serious, respon-
sible, and often ambitious individual. People with
FIGURE 6-54: The loop
this loop tend to have a definite purpose or mis-
of seriousness sion in life. They don’t like to waste time and are
sometimes driven toward achieving their career
goals. They also take their relationships very seriously, although
fun and pleasure are often not on their to-do list.

The Loop of Humor

The loop of humor (FiGurRE 6-55) is found between the

Apollo and Mercury fingers. In contrast to the loop of serious-
ness, people who have this loop tend to value comfort and
Hand Topography II: Lines 105

pleasure over status and financial rewards. They

tend to take life easy, laugh things off, and have
a sense of the ridiculous. They know how to

a
have fun.
These people tend to choose a profession that
provides them with interest and enjoyment over
one that pays well. Some of the funniest people I
have ever met, including an editor for Mad mag-
azine, have loops of humor.
FIGURE 6-55: The loop
The presence of both a loop of seriousness and
of humor
a loop of humor on the same hand indicates that
the individual can have both a serious approach
to life and the ability to enjoy it as well.

The Vanity Loop

The vanity loop consists of a large loop that

entirely encompasses the Apollo mount, as seen
in FIGURE 6-56. In general, the presence of this
loop has one of two meanings: It reveals a person
who is excessively preoccupied with his or her
appearance, or it betrays a tendency to be overly FIGURE 6-56: The loop
sensitive to criticism. of vanity
_
 Section Il

Applications
Chapter 7

The Sexual Triad: Energy,

Pleasure, and Aggression

In this chapter, we'll discuss:

e The driving forces benind our sexuality

e¢ Becoming more self-aware

e Finding vita! force in the hand

The primary indicator of passion

Measuring your capacity for pleasure

Controlling aggression
110 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

sychologists tell us that human sexuality is made up of three

Pee vital force, pleasure, and aggression. When
we read another person’s hand, our goal is to understand how
this triad makes up his or her sexuality and how it might be
expressed in daily life.

Energy
Energy moves the wheels of life. This energy (known as prana or
ch’t in the East) impregnates the entire universe and stands
behind all creation and evolution on Earth. In humans, this vital
force is reflected by body metabolism, which is influenced by
the food we eat, the air we breathe, personal lifestyle habits like
exercise, as well as our genetic makeup.
Vital force can also be expressed as sexual energy; next
to hunger, it’s perhaps our most powerful motivating force.
Biologically speaking, the sex force stands behind our desire to
reproduce; it impels us to join together with a person of the
Opposite sex in order to create a new life.

Pleasure

The pleasure principle is strongly connected to our biological

instinct for reproduction. According to psychiatrist Alexander
Lowen, the developer of bioenergetics, in his book Pleasure, the
“body’s pleasure is the source from which all good feelings and
good thinking stems.” Without pleasure, writes Lowen, one’s
thinking becomes distorted and creative potential is lost,
whether in creating a meal, a piece of sculpture, or a new direc-
tion in life.
Since intimate physical contact with another person can be
one of the most pleasurable human experiences, sexual interest
The Sexual Triad: Energy, Pleasure, and Aggression

is closely related to our ability to both give and receive pleasure.

In the context of sexual palmistry, evaluating the individual’s
capacity for pleasure is essential for determining sexual interest
and its expression.

Aggression
Aggression is closely linked to both sexual energy and
pleasure. Although aggression (like pleasure) has often been
misunderstood, it is essentially a natural expression of
dynamic, outgoing movement in relation to our environment.
It is part of our ability to assert ourselves in the world. In its
primary expression, aggression defends us from threats to our
vital interests.
When anthropologists speak of aggression and sex, they
mention that early male Homo sapiens (like other male animals)
needed to be aggressive in order to subdue, mount, and pene-
trate the female. At the time, that was probably a good thing
because it helped ensure the continuation of the human species.
Unfortunately, elements of this “caveman” mentality still per-
sist, as evidenced by rape, sexual abuse, and the various ways—
economic, political, and social—that men subjugate women in
the condition known as patriarchy.

It's Not Just about Sex

Remember that the triad of sexual energy, pleasure, and aggres-
sion shouldn’t only be considered in the context of a relationship
between two people. Depending on our talents, inclinations,
and level of consciousness, these essentially “sexual” aspects can
be directed into many different areas. For example, the Shakers
(a small utopian Christian sect that flourished in the United
Wl SEXUAL PALMISTRY

States in the nineteenth century) were completely celibate and

channeled their sexual energies into creating new forms of agri-
culture, architecture, and furniture design. They also made
practical improvements on hundreds of objects and invented
dozens of new ones, including the clothespin, fountain pen nib,
rotary saw, washing machine, and flat broom.
When properly channeled, sexual energy can create at all
levels of existence, including art, science, and politics. When
coupled with self-assertion and the pleasure principle, sexual
energy can also be channeled toward spiritual pursuits through
meditation, devotion, and expanded levels of consciousness. The
powers behind healing (including practices like Reiki and
Therapeutic Touch) and the universal expression of peace and
goodwill toward all life can spring from this primal sexual force
and can help integrate us on all levels of our being.

Becoming Aware of Your Intentions

Therapists have noted that awareness and intent are the keys to
an integrated sexuality that combines sexual energy, pleasure,
and positive assertion. Of course, true awareness comes as a
result of experiencing real love. Sexual force can be channeled
through procreation and starting a family. It can be discharged
to bring us pleasure or help us release physical or emotional ten-
sion. It can be used as a tool to gain power over others, or to
increase our belief in our own self-importance. Sexual force can
also lead us to achieve new levels of intimacy and caring with
our partner, and it can create powerful energy forms of love and
compassion in the world.
Although the following chapters will deal mostly with dis-
covering the potentials of sexual energy, aggression, and
pleasure in the hand (and how they affect our relationships with
The Sexual Triad: Energy, Pleasure, and Aggression 13

others), nonsexual expressions of these aspects—such as reli-

gious devotion, healing ability, and any type of creative
activity—should be considered as well. The actual expressions
of this triad are determined not only by our primary relation-
ships but also by our personal interests, aspirations, and goals.

Determining Sexual Energy in the Hand

Both the thickness and consistency of the hand are major indi-
cators of the amount of sexual energy we have at our disposal.
However, we also need to consider the size of the mount of
Venus and the depth of the life and heart lines, which can either
strengthen or neutralize these basic characteristics.
While hand thickness is partly determined by our physique,
a very flat, soft hand with a prominent indentation in the center
of the palm reveals a very low sex drive. A person with this type
of hand—especially if it is pale—tends to tire easily, lack
warmth, and probably is somewhat needy in a relationship: he
would rather be given to than give.
A person with this type of hand often lacks the warmth of
heart necessary for a deep relationship and tends to intellectu-
alize feelings and stay aloof from emotional confrontations,
especially if the fingers are long and knotted. However, if the
hand 1s thin and hard, the person can be stubborn, inflexible, and
calculating. If the thumb is stiff and the head and life lines join
at their commencement, the individual is likely to be emotion-
ally and sexually withholding.
A thick, fleshy hand reveals the opposite qualities: an abun-
dance of warmth (both physical and emotional), high energy,
and powerful sensuality. When the hand is thick and soft,
chances are that the person loves food and drink almost as much
as sex. Weight control can be a problem.
114 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

A hand of medium thickness—in both woman and men—

reflects a person with a moderate degree of sexual energy and
warmth. As with attitudes about food and drink, sexual
appetites are generally balanced. They tend not to be disinter-
ested in sex, but it isn’t an all-consuming passion, unless the
mount of Venus is unusually large.

The Mount of Venus

As our primary indicator of passion and sex drive, the

mount of Venus speaks of vitality, the capacity for warm friend-
ship, and the ability to love. Ideally, it should constitute one-
third of the palm surface and be bordered by a life line that
forms a graceful arc toward the wrist (FIGURE 7-1). Being neither
too hard nor too bland, “nice and round and cushy” would best
describe a good Venus mount. When it is healthy pink in color
and free of deep grilles, it reflects warmth, vitality, and energy,
revealing a strong capacity to love and be loved in return.
If the mount is very /arge, there’s a potential for an over-
abundance of physical passion, with a desire for frequent sexual
experiences throughout the day and night. Unless a strong head
line and thumb are present, the pursuit of sexual gratification
can control the person’s life. Unless blessed with a partner who
is also highly sexed, strenuous physical activities like chopping
wood, long-distance running, or racquetball can help channel
this sexual energy in other directions. I’ve found that some of
best healers (especially those who practice hands-on healing like
massage, Reiki, and Therapeutic Touch) have abnormally large
mounts of Venus. I often recommend that clients with large
mounts pursue healing work whether professionally or as a hobby.
If the Venus mount is flat and soft, there is often a lack of
vitality and sexual power. Although the individual can be
The Sexual Triad: Energy, Pleasure, and Aggression 1)

FIGURE 7-1: Handprint with

a large, full mount of Venus

FIGURE 7-2: Life line cutting

into the mount of Venus
116 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

capable of strong feelings of love and passion, they may not be

expressed primarily in the bedroom.
If the life line cuts into this mount rather than sweeping around
it in a wide arc (FIGURE 7-2), the person can be cold, Victorian,
and prudish. Sexual expression is not a priority in life.

Nails and Sex

Fingernails also reveal sexual energy. People with reddish

nails have a strong sex drive and like to express their passion in
purely physical terms.
Bright pink nails tend to reveal a more manageable sex drive.
These people tend to enjoy a balance between the physical and
emotional expressions of love and passion.
By contrast, people with bluish nails often have difficulty
expressing themselves physically. Although they may not lack
passion and strong feelings of sexual love, it often takes them
time to “warm up” to another person, especially if their hands
reveal a tendency toward shyness.

Finding Your Capacity for Pleasure

Like other aspects of the personality, the hands can reveal only
our potential for receiving and enjoying pleasure. Unless miti-
gating factors are present in life, a person with thick, soft, fleshy
hands of moderate consistency (along with short, smooth fingers
and pinkish skin) would never say no to pleasure. In addition to
good food, a comfortable couch, and soft pillows, frequent phys-
ical contact with others would rank high among the joys of life.
Add a deep and slightly chained heart line (which reveals both
heightened sensitivity and emotional depth), prominent mounts
of Venus and Luna, pink nails, and conic spatulate fingertips, and
The Sexual Triad: Energy, Pleasure, and Aggression 117

you'd have a pleasure lover par excellence. This would be espe-

cially true if the hand and thumb were flexible, because they
reveal an ability to respond to inner feelings and primal instincts
without being held back by rules imposed by society or family.
A perfect Sunday for this person would include an active
morning of lovemaking, a late (and abundant) brunch, and the
rest of the afternoon in bed, either sleeping or enjoying one or
more amorous trysts until the evening meal.
On the opposite end of the scale, people with thin, bony
hands; a small or restricted mount of Venus; cold skin temper-
ature; long, knotted fingers; bluish or pale nails; and weak,
shallow lines would not consider sensate pleasure a priority in
life. Their idea of a perfect Sunday would include morning reli-
gious worship, quiet conversation, a light lunch, and reading
the paper followed by afternoon tea.
There are, of course, numerous modifying features in the
hand that can indicate a greater or diminished capacity for
physical pleasure. The position of the thumb on the hand, the
hand shape, and the presence of a girdle of Venus, for example,
can offer important information that can modify other attrib-
utes. We'll talk about these in greater detail in Chapter 8.

Exploring Sexual Aggression

We mentioned earlier that the aggressive instinct of our early
human ancestors helped ensure the survival of our species. It
not only protected early women and men from the dangers of
an often-hostile environment, but encouraged them to bond
together for mutual protection and procreation.
Although a lot has changed over the course of human his-
tory, modern men and women still carry this primal instinct to
bond sexually. This aggressive instinct does not always manifest
118 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

as a violent or forceful imposition of one’s personal will over

another for sexual gratification. It generally takes the form of a
more benign and positive self-assertion and a natural desire for
affection, intimacy, and sexual contact with another human
being. In fact, the term sexual intercourse is not a crude expres-
sion (like its popular four-letter counterpart derived from the
Old German word meaning “to hit” or “to strike”) but is a
phrase that implies intimacy, interaction, and exchange.

The Venus and Mars Factors

Like determining the amount of sexual energy, the firmer the

consistency of the hand, the more assertive the personality. This
can be strengthened by a long, firm thumb; a firm or stiff hand
that barely bends back under pressure; and reddish nails and
reddish skin, as opposed to light pink nails and pale skin. While
a large mount of Venus can be a reliable indicator of strong
sexual interest, a large mount that is also hard can increase the
potential for sexual aggressiveness, especially if the mount is
reddish in color. Strong grilles on the Venus mount (as opposed
to the presence of small lines) reveal strong sexual passion and
a powerful desire to achieve sexual release.
A large, well-formed mount of Lower Mars also reveals a
powerful desire to satisfy sexual urges. While a relatively soft
and nicely rounded mount would show a healthy degree of
sexual self-assertion, a prominent, hard, and reddish mount (it
almost appears to be a callus) reveals strong aggressive currents
that can easily spill over to cruelty and violence. When these
traits are accompanied by what hand readers refer to as a “mut-
derer’s thumb” (consult Chapter 4), the person is capable of
sudden outbursts that can be a danger to others, especially if
other fingers of the hand are seriously bent.
The Sexual Triad: Energy, Pleasure, and Aggression 19

Simian Love

I mentioned earlier that the presence of a Simian line could

reveal both tenacity and emotional intensity. If a person with a
Simian line wants to go out with you, he or she will likely never
take “no” for an answer and will wear you down until you agree
to a date.
Unless modified by other factors in the hand, the owner of
a Simian line can alternate from one emotional extreme to
another without warning. Loving and affectionate one moment,
she can be angry and aggressive the next. An hour later, all
anger will be forgotten. The potential for aggression and cruelty
is especially strong if the skin texture and the hand are coarse in
appearance (FIGURE 7-3) as opposed to the more sensitive hand
seen 1n FIGURE 7-4.
The tendency toward callousness and violence can some-
times be offset by markings like obvious pads (“sensitivity
bumps”) on the fingertips, a chained and fretted Simian line,
and a girdle of Venus. Be sure to examine the entire hand before
arriving at any firm conclusions.

FIGURE 7-3:
Simian lineona
coarse hand
120 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

FIGURE 7—4: Simian line

on asensitive hand

Who's the Boss?

Frequently, people whose Jupiter finger is longer than the Apollo

finger like to dominate and exercise control over others. If the
mounts of Venus and Mars are small and relatively soft, the
desire to control is essentially benign. But if prominent, hard
mounts of Mars and Venus accompany a strong Jupiter finger,
the person is likely to be aggressive and pushy. There will be a
clear effort to have his or her way in a relationship, especially if
the hand, thumb, and other fingers are stiff and inflexible.
If the life and head lines are separate, these assertive currents
are a natural part of the personality. But if they are joined, the
The Sexual Triad: Energy, Pleasure, and Aggression WA

desire to dominate and be in charge stems from feelings of inse-

curity that say, “If I’m not in charge here, my partner will dom-
inate me.” The person can be aggressive and pushy as a result, as
he or she strives to compensate for feelings of insecurity.
The heart line can also indicate sexual assertion. If the line
is more of the “physical” type, the person tends to be more
aggressive and enjoys more rough-and-tumble sex. He (and it
usually is a “he”) prefers to give rather than receive and may
have a problem being emotionally and physically receptive in
bed, especially if the heart line lacks frets, chains, or islands.
By contrast, a person with a “mental” heart line tends to
favor romance, flowers, and sweet words of endearment. While
there may be an abundance of love and passion, it will more
likely be expressed through the heart than the genitals. For this
reason, people with mental heart lines usually need to be more
sexually assertive in their relationships in order to achieve a
greater sense of mutuality with their partner in the bedroom.
With care and experience, it should not be difficult for you
to achieve a well-grounded understanding of the magical triad
of sexual energy, pleasure, and aggression. In the following
chapter, we'll continue onward from this foundation and
explore some of the major psychological issues involving sex and
relationships and how they can be seen in the hand.
Chapter 8

Personality and Sexual

Expression: What Your
Hands Reveal

In this chapter, we'll discuss:

Origins of our sexual personality

Romantics and realists

Keys to communication

Sexual extrovert or introvert

Finding self-esteem in the hand

Signs of faithfulness, generosity,

and sensitivity

Dominant or submissive

Indications of desire disorders

es)
 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

ur sexual personality is influenced by many different fac-

CC). Aside from the more obvious physical characteristics
we inherit from our parents, we also receive subtle psycholog-
ical and hormonal influences from our ancestral gene pool.
These don’t just govern body metabolism but influence our
physical reactions to the world around us, such as how we deal
with rejection or handle a stressful day at work. If these factors
weren’t enough to deal with, we also come into the world with
a basic constitutional disposition, which governs our baseline
energy level and our ability to respond to challenges from the
often complex world around us.
Aside from inheriting our mother’s blue eyes or our father’s
large feet, we also inherit a blend of psychological traits. Like
the genes involved with physical processes such as circulation,
digestion, and reproduction, our mental and emotional func-
tions are often strongly imprinted with the genes of our parents.
When someone tells us “You think exactly like your mother,”
the observation (whether we agree or disagree) is not only based
on the notion of psychological conditioning (which is in itself
more considerable than most people believe) but also on inher-
ited genetic traits. This is why in many cases, the hands of chil-
dren often have a lot in common with those of their parents.
In addition to inherited traits received at conception from
our ancestral gene pool, our environment also plays a role in our
psychosexual development. It has been well established that
prenatal trauma can affect children’s psychological develop-
ment, just as emotional and physical events influence their lives
after they are born. Our primary relationships with our mother
and father, as well as those with siblings and others during the
first months and years of life, often influence how we relate to
other people (and the world around us) later on. An act of psy-
chological betrayal by a parent at even two months of age can
Personality and Sexual Expression: What Your Hands Reveal 125

adversely affect us for decades, even if the traumatic event has

long faded from conscious memory.
Other childhood traumas—such as the death of a close rel-
ative or friend, a chronically dysfunctional family situation, or
the more serious (and often overlooked) problem of physical or
sexual abuse—also contribute strongly to psychological and
sexual development. In addition, powerful cultural influences
from family, friends, school, organized religion, and the media
all condition us to adapt to “acceptable” standards of society.
Teaching a boy that “real men don’t cry” or believing that a
good girl should play with dolls instead of toy trucks are just
two of the most obvious examples of the cultural influences that
help mold our psychosexual character.
In the following pages, we'll take a look at some of the major
traits that make up our personality. We’ll show how they can be
seen in the hand and how they can be applied to our lives as sexual
beings. Remember that the hand primarily reveals tendencies
and predispositions and that the individual lines can change over
time. In addition, one characteristic does not a personality make;
several features should be considered together before arriving at
any final evaluations of a person’s sexual nature. Also, an indi-
cator from one hand characteristic can contradict that of another,
such as the presence of a long, humanitarian heart line along
with a rigid “murderer’s thumb.” This is why we need to proceed
with caution and strive to achieve a clear perspective of both hands
before arriving at any firm conclusions regarding the psycholog-
ical and sexual makeup of the person whose hands we are reading.

Romantic or Realistic?

You can spot romantic people by their intensity. When they fall
in love, their heart begins to pound, their stomach grows weak,
126 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

while their mind often goes out to lunch; love for them 1s
instinctual and often “at first sight.” Their relationships are
often deeply emotional and include a powerful sensual compo-
nent. As a result, sex among romantics tends to be varied, stim-
ulating, and frequent.
The major way palmists identify a romantic is by looking at
their heart line, which would be deep, long, and extend well
into the mount of Jupiter. Chances are that the romantic’s heart
line would also be of the “mental” variety, which indicates both
heightened emotional sensitivity and impressionability. Conic or
psychic fingertips (especially on the index finger) reveal a ten-
dency to be easily inspired by others and are a sign of strong
romantic devotion. If the person’s hand also features a large,
pink mount of Venus, deep passion will also play an important
role in their romantic life. A girdle of Venus may also reveal a
strong romantic nature, especially if accompanied by the mental
heart line described earlier. In addition, the head line of the pure
romantic will probably droop down toward the mount of Luna.
This will betray a strong imagination and the tendency to
indulge in romantic imagery and sexual fantasies, for better or
for worse.
By contrast, the hands of the realist tend to be more
squarish, featuring square or spatulate fingertips. The surface of
the palm is likely to be broad as opposed to narrow (narrow,
elongated hands appear to be common among romantics). The
head line, which is probably clear and long, moves straight
across the palm toward the mount of Upper Mars. Unlike the
romantic, the realist’s heart line is more of the “physical” type
and ends under the mount of Saturn or just beyond. Remember
that many romantic individuals try to portray themselves (usu-
ally unconvincingly) as realists in matters of the heart, despite
their conic fingertips and long, chained, and broken heart lines.
Personality and Sexual Expression: What Your Hands Reveal 127

This duality will be especially true if their hands are squarish

and the head line is practical.
Disillusionment is common among romantics. They often
place the object of their desire on a pedestal and expect more
than can realistically be given. At the same time, the romantic
is likely to overlook important warning signs that lead to disil-
lusionment. For example, a romantic’s boyfriend may already be
in a relationship he has no intention of leaving (“He kept prom-
ising me that he would leave his wife”) or the girlfriend may
simply be taking advantage of the romantic’s innate generosity
(“She told me that she loved me, but she only loved my
money”). The tendency to overestimate others is found when
the Apollo finger bends toward the Saturn finger. By contrast,
if the Apollo finger is straight, our primary instinct about others
is usually correct, especially if our hand features lines of intu-
ition moving upward from the mount of Luna. However,
whether we follow these hunches is another story!
A Mercury finger curving slightly toward the Apollo finger
(FiGURE 8-1) reflects a more astute, streetwise person who is not
easily deceived by others, while a perfectly straight Mercury
finger is a sign that its owner can be too trusting and naive.
Although trusting others is an admirable quality, it can often
lead to disappointment in a relationship, especially if the person
is a poor judge of other people and their motives.

Communication: The Key to Relating

Our ability to communicate with another person is essential
for a successful relationship, whether it is sexual or not. In
palmistry, a long Mercury finger (one that reaches at least to
the top phalange of the Apollo finger) is a primary indicator
of the ability to communicate. Often found in the hands of
128 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

FIGURE 8-1: Hand with a long,

slightly curving Mercury finger

accomplished actors, writers, teachers, and public speakers, a

long Mercury finger reflects a person who is comfortable with
others in social situations and reveals an innate ability to easily
share thoughts and feelings. Many believe that having a large
mount of Venus (a sign of a strong sex drive) makes a person a
good lover, but this is not necessarily the case. Because commu-
nication is an essential part of lovemaking, some palmists believe
that the longer your Mercury finger, the better you are in bed.
In contrast, a short Mercury finger (as seen in FIGURE 8-2)
reveals difficulties with communication. The person feels ill at
ease in social situations, may express herself awkwardly, and is
easily misunderstood. If the Mercury finger is low-set on the
Personality and Sexual Expression: What Your Hands Reveal 47)

FIGURE 8-2: Hand with a

short, low-set Mercury finger

hand as well, communication problems may trace their origin to

early relationships with parents. Because these issues often have
a profound impact on the person’s ability to establish—let alone
maintain—a fulfilling relationship, I often suggest counseling
to provide needed insight or group therapy to gain experience
relating to others in a safe and supportive environment.
To the extent that the Mercury finger curves toward Apollo,
the person tends to be astute and shrewd in relationships.
People who are especially charming or seductive (sexually or
otherwise) often have this type of finger and often enjoy suc-
cessful careers as salespeople, public relations agents, media per-
sonalities, and politicians.
130 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Can You Keep a Secret?

A wide separation between the heart and head lines (FIGURE 8-3)
reveals an individual who likes to share personal thoughts and
feelings with others. This openness is enhanced by fingers that
are widely spaced (especially when the hand is held open), a low-
set thumb, and head and life lines that are separated at their
commencement. Found primarily on the hands of men, a narrow
space (FIGURE 8-4) is a good indication of a secretive person who
prefers to keep both feelings and opinions to himself. This trait
can be very frustrating to partners in a relationship, because it is
often difficult to know what is going on with such people emo-
tionally; they tend to keep their feelings well hidden. Of course,
if you want to share a secret with someone, this person would be
ideal to confide in, especially if the hands are firm or rigid.
As a hand reader, you may meet a person with a narrow
space between the heart and head lines, life and head lines
joined at their commencement, and a strongly curved Saturn

FIGURE 8-3: Wide separation between heart and head lines

Personality and Sexual Expression: What Your Hands Reveal 131

FIGURE 8-4: Narrow separation between heart and head lines

finger (which indicates a tendency for melancholy and depres-

sion). Sometimes you'll find an imaginative head line as well. In
such cases, when the person becomes depressed, his imagination
often works overtime, transforming a minor problem into a
major tragedy. At the same time, his secretive nature will pre-
vent him from sharing his difficulties with others, thus robbing
him of the opportunity for feedback, sympathy, or comfort.

The Mind: Open or Closed?

Since communication involves receiving as well as sharing, the
degree of open-mindedness is an important part of communica-
tion. Generally speaking, people with broad hands, low-set
thumbs, and large, broad nails are open-minded and emotion-
ally accessible, making them easy to talk to. They are often
interested in other points of view and are able to deal with the
feelings of others. A chained or fretted heart line (especially if it
132 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

is long) reveals a person who is sensitive to other people and

cares about their problems.
However, when the palm is narrow or elongated, its owner
tends to be more conservative and close-minded, especially if
the hand is firm or rigid and the fingernails are narrow. Short
nails (which have not been bitten) reveal a critical person who is
likely to be negative and bigoted toward other points of view.
The classic phrase “Everyone has a right to my opinion” was
probably coined by a person with short fingernails.

Extroversion, Introversion, and Sexual Inhibition

It will probably come as no surprise that the sex lives of extro-

verts and introverts differ substantially. Studies have shown
that extroverts, who by definition are less inhibited than intro-
verts, generally have their first sexual experience at an earlier
age and enjoy a more active, varied sex life through adulthood.
They are also likely to experiment with more sexual partners,
explore a greater variety of sexual techniques, and, among
females, experience orgasm more frequently than their more
introverted sisters.
When you analyze a person’s hand, ask her to open both
hands as far as comfortably possible. Pay special attention to the
thumb. The greater the degree formed between the index finger
and the open thumb, the greater the person’s degree of extro-
version and openness toward sexuality.
A high-set thumb, opening at a 45-degree angle to the
index finger (FIGURE 8-5) is a sure sign that the owner is a
Victorian in sexual attitudes. He is likely to be overly cautious,
straight-laced, and sexually withdrawn. Often embarrassed
about sexual matters, even to the point of avoiding them com-
pletely, he would likely be very cautious in a relationship and
Personality and Sexual Expression: What Your Hands Reveal 133

FIGURE 8-5: High-set thumb,

opening at a 45-degree angle
to the index finger

have difficulty letting go sexually. He is best described as

“uptight,” unless modifying aspects in the hand are present.
A thumb that is set at a 60-degree angle indicates a greater
degree of psychological openness. Although more liberated than
the Victorian, this person still fears letting go emotionally or
sexually.
A low-set thumb (Ficure 8-6) can easily be positioned at a
90-degree angle to the Jupiter finger. People with low-set
thumbs tend to be more self-accepting and are not overly con-
cerned about what others may think of them. Generally more
adaptable and more versatile, they have a greater ability to
“hang loose” in a relationship than others. Because people with
low-set thumbs are often more independent than most, they are
more likely to pursue sexual adventure and experimentation.
134 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

FIGURE 8-6: Low-set,

wide-angled thumb

Over the years, I’ve found it important to consider certain

key modifiers when examining the degree of the thumb.
Spatulate or conic fingers, “generous” thumbs, and flexible
hands tend to increase extroversion; stiff hands, squarish finger-
tips, and “stubborn” thumbs reveal greater self-control and
sexual repression. A separation of the life and head lines at their
commencement is a sign of impulsiveness, impatience, and self-
reliance, which will decrease sexual inhibition and self-restraint,
especially when found in a flexible hand.
Knotted fingers can reveal increase sexual inhibition. These
fingers are found mostly on people who love to analyze and
focus on minutiae (especially if their fingers are long). They may
well have a deep intellectual understanding about sexuality and
sexual technique, but they can have difficulty putting their
Personality and Sexual Expression: What Your Hands Reveal ie)

knowledge into practice. In fairness, such individuals are also

likely to be more patient and focused on details during love-
making, which can make for a very exciting experience for their
partner. If the fingers tend to be held closely together when the
hand is opened, underlying psychological insecurity can also
show up as sexual repression. A hand with widely spread fingers
reveals a greater degree of sexual liberation.

Finding Self-Esteem in the Hand

Our level of self-esteem plays an important role in our sexual
lives. Because people with a high degree of self-esteem like
themselves better, they tend to attract both people and situa-
tions that enhance their lives. As a result, they are more able
to realize their fondest dreams whether in business, sports, or
relationships.
Like all other aspects of character, our level of self-esteem is
determined partly by our family gene pool, as well as by childhood

Long-Lasting Marks of Trauma

Early childhood trauma can seriously erode our inherited level of self-
esteem. We can often locate such trauma (whether physical, psychological,
or both) by observing where influence lines cross the life, head, and heart
lines. A physical trauma—such as an accident or serious illness—will often
leave a reddish or bluish dot on the line when crossed by an influence line;
a psychological trauma would probably be free of such dots. To the degree
that the influence line breaks or causes an island to form on a major line,
the greater the impact and/or duration of the psychological or physical
trauma. Remember that not all traumas erode self-esteem. In some cases,
a major trauma can have a powerful healing effect on the personality and
lead us to feel better about ourselves than ever before.
136 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

influences from parents, siblings, teachers, and friends. This is

why it is important to consider both hands when doing an
analysis in order to learn if the degree of self-esteem has
increased or decreased over the years, or if it has remained the
same since childhood.
I’ve found that the major indicators of self-esteem in the
hand are relative lengths of the Jupiter and Apollo fingers, as
well as the relationship of the life line to the head line at their
commencement. Ideally, the Jupiter and Apollo fingers should
be of equal length, indicating a good amount of self-esteem and
a realistic view of inner strengths and weaknesses. To the extent
that the Jupiter finger is shorter than Apollo (FicurE 8-7), the
lower the basic level of self-esteem is. When this is found, the

FIGURE 8-7: Short Jupiter

finger
Personality and Sexual Expression: What Your Hands Reveal 137

individual tends to underestimate the many qualities that he or

she may, in fact, possess. Low self-esteem can sometimes lead to
involvement in romantic or sexual situations in the hope of
improving self-image, which usually end in disappointment.

Jealousy

Frequently our level of self-esteem influences our choice of

partners and how we view our relationships with them. Jealousy
is one of the most common symptoms of low self-esteem in a
relationship and often needs to be recognized and dealt with
constantly. Jealously can primarily be found in the hand by a
Jupiter finger curving toward Saturn. The greater the curve (as
long as it’s not due to arthritis or injury), the more innately
jealous and possessive the person is. By contrast, a relatively
straight Jupiter finger would reveal a more secure person who
doesn’t treat his partner like private property that can be stolen
by a rival. A woman with such a hand would not be suspicious
if her husband came home late from work, and a man would
encourage his mate to take a coed dance class.

Signs of the Faithful Partner

Unfortunately, there is no sure indication for faithfulness in the
hand. However, a strong thumb and firm-to-rigid hand, squarish
fingers, and a relatively clear heart line ending under the mount
of Jupiter enhance the qualities of responsibility, reliability, and
loyalty toward a partner. In many cases, this sense of loyalty is not
wholly dependent on sexual satisfaction, as sex is usually neither
more nor less important than other aspects of the relationship.
Very flexible hands, a generous thumb, and separate life
and head lines tend to reveal a more spontaneous (and often
138 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

less reliable) individual, especially if the head line is islanded

and the mount of upper Mars is soft, indicating a lack of per-
sistence and possible commitment. If the heart line is very long
and chained, the person is likely to be interested in a wide
variety of partners and may find it difficult to be completely
devoted to only one. By the same token, a person with a heart
line ending under the Saturn mount tends to be more inter-
ested in sexual pleasure than in loyalty to a mate. The tendency
to seek multiple partners is enhanced by the presence of a
broken girdle of Venus and an abnormally large Venus mount,
indicating that interest in sex (and sexual satisfaction) is a pri-
mary goal in life.
Another sign of seeking out multiple partners is a low-set
Mercury finger (look back at Ficure 8-2). According to Andrew
Fitzherbert, the author of Hand Psychology, a person with this
trait has difficulty finding satisfaction in their relationship and
will tend to shop around for the ideal partner.

The Generous Hand in Love and Money

Everyone would agree that generosity is among the finest of
human virtues and is an essential part of any happy long-term
relationship. These days, generosity that doesn’t have strings
attached is rare, and the person who gives freely of money or
time while expecting nothing in return is often considered
unusual or eccentric.
The primary indicator for generosity is the flexible thumb.
The more the thumb bends back, the more inherently generous
the individual is, whether with money, possessions, time or
affection. Owners of flexible thumbs often make good lovers,
because they find it easier to give of themselves freely and to
place their lover’s satisfaction above their own.
Personality and Sexual Expression: What Your Hands Reveal 139

Generosity is enhanced by a flexible hand that is fairly soft

in its consistency. A flabby mount of Upper Mars can indicate
difficulty resisting outside pressures, so a person with a generous
thumb and a soft mount of Upper Mars often has difficulty saying
“no” to others. A stronger overall hand and a firm mount can
temper this submissive tendency and lead to greater self-assertion.
The less flexible the thumb, the more circumspect and
willful the individual is. A man with a firm thumb may be very
generous to certain people but not to everyone. In general, the
more inflexible the hand and thumb, the more inherently
“thrifty” the owner is be on both material and emotional levels.
This doesn’t mean that a person with a rigid hand and stiff
thumb would not be a good partner in love or marriage. But he
or she needs to be aware of the tendency to withhold feelings
and learn about the pleasures of letting go in the context of a
stable, trusting relationship.

Sensitive Hand, Sensitive Heart

Aside from making a nasty comment to someone and seeing

how he or she reacts, a person’s degree of emotional sensitivity
can be detected primarily by the texture of the skin. Here’s the
basic rule: The finer the skin, the more emotionally (and phys-
ically) sensitive the person is. A profusion of tiny lines, in addi-
tion to fine skin, will enhance sensitivity, especially if the heart
line is long and chained and accompanied by a girdle of Venus.
Generally speaking, women tend to have finer skin texture
than men, but this is not always the case. Although skin tex-
ture is basically an inherited trait, our daily activities also play
a role. Hands that never wash dishes will often be smoother
than those that do, while a person who digs ditches for a living
will have coarser palms than a person who trades stocks.
140 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Another sure sign of a sensitive nature is the presence of tiny

pads on the fingertips, which often resemble small lumps under
the skin. These pads not only reveal a refined sense of touch
(which is especially useful for healers, artists, and craftspeople)
but emotional sensitivity as well.

Dominant or Submissive

Unless you are doing a reading of someone decked out in full

leather, issues of sexual dominance and submission are often dif-
ficult to read in the hand. Classical palmistry teaches that the
hands of assertive and dominant people tend to have long,
strong, and low-set thumbs; a long and thick Jupiter finger; life
and head lines separated at their commencement; a clear head
line (revealing mental focus and clarity); a firm and somewhat
inflexible hand (betraying stubbornness); and strong mounts of
Jupiter (revealing leadership) and Mars (indicating assertiveness).
A stereotypical “passive” individual would possess the oppo-
site hand characteristics: a short, weak, and high-set thumb; a
weak or short Jupiter finger; a soft mount of Mars; and so on.
Yet most palmists overlook the fact that strong currents of dom-
ination and submission (or assertiveness and passivity) are nor-
mally found in the same individual and can change according to
the particular relationship or situation the person is involved in
at the time.
We often find that supposedly “passive” individuals release
their aggression when the right opportunity presents itself.
This is why readers should be very sensitive to all aspects of the
person’s hand and take often contradictory features into
account. Is she naturally dominant, or is she “taking charge” in
order to compensate for a fear of being dominated by others?
Is he submissive by nature, or is he holding in his assertive
Personality and Sexual Expression: What Your Hands Reveal 141

qualities because he’s afraid of losing control or of being disliked

by others if he acts them out?

Desire Disorders

On the other end of the scale, there are people who have prob-
lems with sexual functioning. There are physical, energetic, and
psychological causes for so-called desire disorders, which include
blocked sexual desire, inhibited sexual excitement, an inability
to achieve orgasm, inhibited arousal, premature ejaculation, or
outright aversion to sex.
While there are no clear-cut indications of these problems in
the hand, we may be able to spot certain markings on the palm
that can offer insights into the problem. They include:

© A small, weak or very soft mount of Venus and a thin, flabby

hand indicates a low level of sexual vitality.
© A Life line cutting through a normal-size mount of Venus tends
to cancel out much of the warmth and passion this
mount normally reveals.
° A weak heart line indicates that sexual expression is not a
major priority in life.
© An influence line joining or breaking the heart line may reveal
a major emotional trauma that would affect sexual
desire.
© Indicators of physical illness (as seen on the life line and
related lines of heart, head, and stomach) may have a
bearing on sexual interest and sexual function.

Bad Chemistry
Although the characteristics mentioned here reveal the poten-
tial for impotence or frigidity, the actual relationship between
 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

.
A Fear of Feelings
Sometimes people withdraw sexually as a defense from feeling. People
with a long, deep, chained heart line—especially if it droops down to join
both the head and life lines—can be afraid of their feelings to such an
extent that they simply split off on both emotional and sexual levels.
Although they may appear to be cold and aloof from their partner, the
truth is that they are afraid of their feelings, whether they involve depend-
ency, yearning, or anger. These emotional expressions are often con-
nected with energetic blocks in the body, which inhibit the free flow of
energy during sex. Consult Alexander Lowen’s book Love and Orgasm for
further discussion.

the two people involved is of primary importance. As a reader,

before you consider a “desire disorder” as an individual problem,
view it in the light of the specific relationship between the part-
ners. In that relationship, the woman may be frigid or the man
may be impotent. Different people react in different ways
depending on their shared chemistry, negative past experiences,
anger, jealousy, or issues of guilt or sexual repression. Stress on
the job, finances, or other factors may also be involved.
Remember to observe the problem in the context of the rela-
tionship. However, if the problem appears to be chronic—for
example, the man has been unable to function sexually in his
four previous relationships as well—it is more of an individual
problem and can be dealt with accordingly.
People who are anxious, repressed, or angry are not neces-
sarily impotent or frigid, so try to avoid making general state-
ments. However, if the person mentions sexual dysfunction as a
problem, a hand analyst can offer useful insights concerning the
primary issues that can prevent him or her from enjoying a ful-
filling sexual relationship.
Chapter 9

Sexual Varieties,
Sexual Choices

In this chapter, we'll discuss:

e Being sensible with sensitive subjects

e Varieties of sexual fantasies

The fantasy-prone hand

Autoeroticism

Sexual orientation

Sadism, masochism, and other variations

Sexually abusive people and personalities

 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

ow do we become the sexual beings we are? Sexual expres-

dee is determined by several factors: genetics, early child-
hood experiences (especially with Mom and Dad), and the
education we receive at school, in church, or from the media and
the Internet. If you believe in reincarnation, experiences and
lifestyles from previous lives may well have an impact on our
sexuality in this one. According to some reincarnationists, an
effeminate gay man may well have been a woman in several pre-
vious lives. Whether we believe in reincarnation or not, each
relationship mobilizes different aspects of our sexual heritage
within us. This is why we need to consider sexual expression as
part of our overall being rather than as a separate Compartment
in lite,

Don't Ask; Don't Tell

When it comes to dealing with unconventional styles of sexual

behavior, most books on palmistry tend to ignore the larger
issues involved, or they discuss unorthodox sexual expression
with strong moralistic overtones. It is clearly not helpful to the
person who comes to a palmist for assistance to have an umpor-
tant and intimate part of their life judged, sensationalized, or
trivialized. Hand readers need to try to be as objective as pos-
sible when evaluating another person’s sexual history. We also
must be aware of our own personal fears, prejudices, and condi-
tioning during the reading. We must be wary about making
broad statements about another person’s sexual style, especially
if it involves behavior we don't understand or have never
experienced.
I am not suggesting that we should avoid being honest or
direct when we share information with the person whose hands
we are reading. Yet given the seriousness of the subject as
Sexual Varieties, Sexual Choices 145

well as the needs of those who seek our help—we should

approach issues of unconventional sexual expression with sen-
sitivity and respect.

The Three Types of Sexual Fantasy

Whether we dream of being kidnapped by a handsome
stranger, or wonder what it would be like to be alone on a trop-
ical island with a famous movie star or model, fantasy plays an
important role in our psychosexual makeup. In addition to
physical stimulation, mental stimulation is essential for sexual
arousal and function. The tremendous popularity of Internet
chat rooms (where people often assume fictitious identities and
indulge in online conversations that can be incredibly rich in
romantic and sexual imagery) shows that fantasy is a major part
of our emotional lives. Critics maintain that visiting online chat
rooms is a waste of time and can involve users in dangerous sit-
uations; in some cases, they are right. Yet depending on how we
understand (and try to learn from) our fantasies, we can enhance
the quality of our relationships and increase our level of self-
understanding. Let’s look at the three basic types of fantasy that
often involve sex.

Escaping from Boredom

The first (and most common) type takes the role of an

escape from a boring, humdrum existence. The overworked
housewife dreams about being taken away by a handsome
prince on a white horse. Based on the sale of gothic romances
among women and the popularity of magazines like Playboy
among men, this “escape” type of fantasy is perhaps the most
common of all.
146 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Realizing Unfulfilled Desire

These fantasies are deeply personal and often involve an
unfulfilled desire or longing toward a specific person. A man
who has sexual fantasies about his wife’s sister or a woman who
fantasizes about having an affair with her gardener are two such
examples. In many cases, these fantasies can be used to help us
understand and come to terms with a problem that can be
resolved within the context of the existing relationship or with
the help of marriage counseling or short-term therapy. Whether
this type of fantasy is shared with the partner, left alone, or
acted on depends on the situation.

Over the Edge

The third category is made up of what psychologists call the

“deviant” fantasies, which may include violence, humiliation,
exhibitionism, or suffering. Far more serious than mere escape,
these fantasies are often related to deep psychological trauma
from childhood. Because strong feelings of guilt or shame can
accompany such fantasies, they are often kept secret, which may
cause them to be acted out in real life at tremendous harm to
both the fantasizer and others.

How to Recognize a Hand Prone to Fantasy

Since everyone experiences fantasies of various kinds and inten-
sities at one time or another (some psychologists claim that the
average adult has a sexual fantasy every three minutes), be
careful not to make generalizations regarding a “fantasy-prone”
hand. Nevertheless, several features on the hand reveal the
extent that imagination and fantasy can play in life. Examining
Sexual Varieties, Sexual Choices 147

both hands carefully and noting the wide variety of messages

the hands and their markings offer can reveal whether this
potential is channeled into writing a steamy romance novel or
creating a bizarre sexual scenario.
Generally speaking, a head line that moves toward the
mount of Luna (FiGURE 9-1) indicates a rich fantasy life as
opposed to a “realistic” head line that moves straight across the
palm. If the line is clear and long, the person’s sexual fantasies
are likely to be interesting and varied, although the fantasizer is
still grounded in the reality of the here and now. However, if the
head line is broken, weak, or islanded, neurotic tendencies may
be present and the person may have difficulty distinguishing
between fantasy and reality. Other features in the hand that
point toward fantasy can include a weak thumb, a very flexible
hand, and fingers that are conic, psychic, or strongly bent (espe-
cially Saturn and Apollo). If a long, deep, and chained heart line

FIGURE 9-1: Head line drooping toward Luna mount

148 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

and a large mount of Venus accompany these features, the

person’s fantasy life can hurt chances for good relationships. In
rare cases, these features can reveal a person who often inhabits
a fantasy world to the extent that he or she is out of touch with
reality.
When you evaluate the potential for fantasy in the hand, be
sure to examine both hands in order to obtain a balanced and
integrated view of the person. What is the degree of sexual inhi-
bition? Is she basically sensitive or insensitive toward others?
What impact might an unhappy career or relationship have on
his fantasy life? For the most part, a person’s sexual fantasies
aren't considered a problem unless they disrupt his personal life
and threaten his relationships with others.
Sharing sexual fantasies with others in an appropriate set-
ting and trying to understand their messages can be very useful.
Yet remember that the vast majority of palmists are not sex
therapists and shouldn’t attempt to conduct sexual counseling
unless trained (and certified) to do so. Palmists should refer
people to a qualified professional rather than attempting to
offer therapy.

Giving Yourself a Hand

Closely related to sexual fantasy is autoeroticism. Although
masturbation is almost universally practiced among human
beings throughout the world, it’s also one of humanity’s most
persistent sex taboos. For those interested in word origins, mas-
turbation appears to be a corruption of the Latin manu stuprare,
meaning “to defile with the hand.”
In years past, “touching yourself” was viewed with horror
and was considered an act so vile in the sixteenth and seven-
teenth centuries that only veiled references to it were accepted
Sexual Varieties, Sexual Choices 149

in polite company. Even in the early 1900s, “scientific” books of

the day claimed that masturbation would lead to blindness and
insanity. Dr. Foote’s New Book on Health and Disease, written in
1903, claimed that masturbation was responsible for “tapping
the very fountains of neuro-vitality, and drains from the blood
all its purest and most strengthening qualities” and could lead
to a variety of diseases, including “neurasthenia, mental depres-
sion, and insanity.”
Like public opinion of the time, most palmistry books
steered clear of the subject. Those who discussed it taught that
masturbation was both perverted and sinful. People who prac-
ticed “self-abuse” could easily be identified (to their shame) by
such features as a sweaty palm, blotches on the backs of the
hands, or a large red grille on the mount of Venus.
Although sexual self-stimulation is viewed today in a more
enlightened frame of reference, it still produces a good deal of
misunderstanding, which is not only restricted to teenage boys
who are worried about losing their eyesight or developing hairy
palms. Palmists should be concerned with autoeroticism only if
sexual guilt, which stems primarily from outdated moralistic
views, and sexual repression seem to be a major problem for the
person involved.
Psychologists and sex therapists consider masturbation to be
positive and even therapeutic. In addition to being used as a
way to discharge sexual energy and relieve tension when an
appropriate sexual partner isn’t available, masturbation releases
endorphins, which have been found to enhance the immune
system, relieve pain, produce relaxation, and even help post-
pone the aging process. Autoerotic activity can bring us into
deeper contact with our body and its sensations. Many women,
and also men, practice masturbation this way in order to later
achieve a more fulfilling sexual relationship with their partner.
150 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

In addition to claiming that masturbation fights yeast infections

by increasing blood flow to the pelvis, Cathy Winks and Anne
Semans, the authors of The Good Vibrations Guide to Sex, report
that masturbation can also provide a good cardiovascular
workout and burn calories.
In Sex, Sufi scholar J. G. Bennett put forth a more contro-
versial view of the therapeutic aspects of masturbation. He
believed that talkativeness, greed, hyperactivity, inquisitiveness,
and even drug addiction were routinely used as ways to dis-
charge excess sexual energy. He wrote: “For all those who are
not committed to working on themselves for their transforma-
tion, masturbation acts like a safety valve for the sexual energy
and allows it to be wasted without destructive consequences.”
The only real dangers to autoerotic activity are practical
ones, such as using an electric vibrator while sitting in a bathtub
filled with water or becoming distracted while you’re driving
down the freeway at seventy miles an hour. However, mastur-
bation can also be a problem when it becomes a compulsive act
or a way to avoid entering into a sexual relationship with
another person. The hand can reveal why this situation exists,
especially by examining the lines of heart, head, and union, in
addition to the mount of Venus and the Mercury finger.
For example, a person with a low level of self-esteem (as
revealed by a short Jupiter finger and joined life and head lines),
a sensitive, inward nature (as seen by a broken girdle of Venus
and a long, chained, “mental” heart line that shares a narrow
space with the head line), and problems with interpersonal
communication (as shown by a short, low-set Mercury finger)
may likely use masturbation as a form of escape from a rela-
tionship. This evaluation would be especially true if the mount
of Venus is large, reddish, and grilled, indicating a strong sex
drive and possible sexual excess. Through the insights gained
Sexual Varieties, Sexual Choices it

into the total personality picture, the palmist can then carefully
point out some of the issues involved or recommend an appro-
priate counselor who can offer more practical advice.

Gay, Bisexual, or Straight?

Many people want to know if you can tell a person’s sexual ori-
entation by looking at his or her hand. Nearly every book on
palmistry has added to the confusion over same-sex orientation
because they often categorize people and enforce sexual stereo-
types. Some of the early classics portray the hand of a homo-
sexual—invariably a male—as weak, with a supple thumb
(revealing an unstable personality and a lack of willpower), a
broken or islanded head line (indicating serious emotional prob-
lems), a long and broken girdle of Venus (betraying a sensitive
nature and an obsession with sex), a long and chained heart line
(showing that emotions rule over reason), and pointy fingers
(revealing artistic tendencies, capriciousness, and lack of emo-
tional balance).
More recent research has revealed some interesting findings
on hand features and sexual orientation. A study of 720 men
and women on the streets of San Francisco by researchers from
the University of California at Berkeley found that the index
fingers of men were normally shorter than the ring finger, while
women tended to have index and ring fingers of equal length.
However, gay women also tended to have shorter Jupiter fin-
gers, as did gay men who had several older brothers. Believing
that genetic influences can impact the length of the fingers, Dr.
Marc Breedlove, one of the researchers, opined that younger
brothers are exposed to larger levels of the hormone androgen
in the womb and thus have shorter index fingers than their
brothers.
132 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Over the past thirty years, I’ve probably read the hands of
more than 20,000 people, including many who are gay. Though
the findings mentioned in the Berkeley study are both inter-
esting and worthy of further study, I do not believe that finger
length—or any other factor in the hand—can reveal a person’s
sexual orientation. Why? Because people who prefer members
of their own sex are found in every culture and profession, and
represent a wide spectrum of personality traits and human emo-
tions. According to D. J. West in his classic book Homosexuality,
“Some homosexuals suffer from neurotic fears and anxieties, and
some are self-assured and hard as nails; some are vain and osten-
tatious and some are shy and quiet; some are cowardly and
some are heroes; some are effeminate and some are brutes. Since
all these types are represented, psychologists can too easily pick
out examples to suit their pet theories.”

Some Case Studies

FIGURE 9-2 is the handprint of a fifty-nine-year-old gay man.

A former banker, construction worker, lumberman, and gardener,
he now divides his time between managing a multimillion-
dollar portfolio of investments for several clients and a passion
for mountain climbing. His broad hands feature spatulate fin-
gertips and a large mount of Venus, revealing a strong sensate
nature, an open mind, a love of physical activity, and an ability
to work with three-dimensional reality, like construction, gar-
dening, and money. He also enjoys a reputation as an excellent
masseur among both men and women.
His abundant energy tends to be held in check by the
joining of the life and head lines, which also indicates caution (a
plus for his investors) and a shy, introverted personality. The
long, clear head line indicates a focused mind and strong mental
Sexual Varieties, Sexual Choices DS

/ FIGURE 9-2: The

handprint of a gay man

ability. While the heart line is somewhat chained at its com-

mencement, it doesn’t reveal an inordinate amount of emotion-
ality or sensitivity. His business acumen and ability to
communicate are found in his long Mercury finger. His line of
adventure, which moves horizontally across the mount of Luna
(as described in Chapter 6), is primarily reflected by his love of
mountain climbing and frequent travels to remote and exotic
destinations.
154 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

FIGURE 9-3: The

handprint of a sensitive
heterosexual man

FIGURE 9-3 is from a forty-year-old man whose hand clearly

resembles that of the stereotyped gay male described earlier: a
long and broken heart line, a broken girdle of Venus, a flexible
hand with a weak thumb, a weak and islanded head line, and
numerous lines in general, which indicate a tendency to be very
emotional and highly strung. In real life, he indeed reflects all
of the psychological characteristics revealed by his hand, except
that he is very attracted to women and has no interest in men
sexually at all.
Sexual Varieties, Sexual Choices L553

FiGURE 9-4 is the handprint of a fifty-year-old gay woman

who works as a nurse and counselor. In addition to prominent
Samaritan lines on the Mercury mount, her squarish hand
reveals solid organizational skills, and her knotted fingers show
a love of detail and analysis. She has a long, sensitive heart line
and a girdle of Venus, and an “independent” Mercury finger.
She has a prominent, firm thumb, which reveals strong will-
power: A high school dropout, she decided to earn her nursing
degree while in her forties and graduated at the top of her class.
Her Jupiter finger is slightly shorter than Apollo, which indeed
supports the idea that lesbians have short Jupiter fingers.

FIGURE 9-4: The

handprint of a gay woman
156 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Yet since many straight women have a similar finger length pat-
tern, I believe that her hand is no different than other women’s
(whether straight, bisexual, or gay) who are as dynamic and
independent as she is.
I’ve never been fond of labeling people, and even psycholo-
gists tell us that the boundaries between “gay” and “straight”
are often quite vague. The hand can, of course, provide valuable
insights into the person’s sensitivity, impressionability, emo-
tional responsiveness, and degree of sexual repression; it can also
reveal issues with passivity and aggression, level of self-esteem
and self-acceptance, and capacity to love and enjoy fulfilling
relationships. Whether such feelings are directed primarily
toward men or women (or both) is difficult to figure out.
Of course, if you believe intuitively (or otherwise know in
advance) that the person whose hands you are reading is gay or
bisexual, your consultation can be guided accordingly. For
example, instead of speaking of the husband or wife the person
may have in the future, you can speak of a primary relationship
without referring to gender.

Power Play: The Dynamics of BDSM

Many years ago I began a correspondence with an English
palmist who was also deeply involved in the practice of bondage,
domination, sadism, and masochism, collectively known as
BDSM. When my mother learned that he offered me hospitality
during some book-related appearances in London, she laughingly
advised, “Have a good visit, but don’t turn your back on him!”
Like the stereotyped homosexual, people who are involved in
BDSM are largely misunderstood. In the past, palmists have
often portrayed the “sadist’s hand” as masculine, coarse, and
deep reddish in color. The mounts of Venus and Mars are large
Sexual Varieties, Sexual Choices 157

and hard, and the fingers are often twisted, revealing severe
mental disturbances. A “murderer’s thumb” completes the pic-
ture, revealing violence and a temper that is often out of control.
The problem is that there are people with such hands who
are not at all sadistic, while some individuals with elegant
hands, long and slender fingers, and fine skin texture can be
very delicate about their cruelty and act out their sadistic feel-
ings every day of the week.
Those who enjoy sexual scenes like bondage, domination,
sadism, and masochism find that their erotic activities produce
higher amounts of endorphins as a response to pain caused by
spanking, whipping, biting, pinching, the use of hot wax or
clamps, and other forms of consensual controlled physical and
psychological assault. The intense feelings have been compared
to nonsexual activities that produce endorphins, such as long-
distance running and eating hot chili peppers.
People get involved with BDSM for a variety of reasons.
Enthusiasts report that it gives them an emotional catharsis
they would not normally experience during conventional sexual
activity. Like my palmist friend, some are attracted to the dra-
matic and often theatrical aspects of role-playing, while others
are drawn to the strong level of trust between partners during
BDSM activity.
Others use BDSM to attempt to expiate old guilt, to safely
express feelings of cruelty, evil, or violence, or to fully experience
an intensely dominant or submissive role that they cannot nor-
mally experience in daily life. In A Sexual Profile of Men in Power,
the authors report a high frequency of sexual masochism
(including being subjected to verbal abuse and being tied up,
beaten, and humiliated) among the political leaders and power
brokers they studied. They concluded that the conflict between
the two impulses of aggression and submission among these
158 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

political and business leaders could lead to behavior that swung

widely between the opposite poles of ruthlessness (in the board-
room) and dependency (in the bedroom).
Some psychologists believe that many practitioners of
BDSM have greater difficulty getting in touch with their feel-
ings. According to Dr. Jack Lee Rosenberg in his book Body, Sed,
and Soul, “Whether they are thickly armored or split off, their
inability to feel the subtle pleasures of sensuality leads them to
seek greater stimulation by inflicting and receiving pain.”
As hand readers, we need to understand the complexities of
these issues and try to be aware of the underlying reasons behind
these types of sexual expression. Some participants may be seeking
(consciously or not) to resolve deep psychological issues in their
lives through such intense sexual practices, while others simply
engage in BDSM for personal enjoyment, to avoid meaningful
relationships with others, or to achieve an intense endorphin rush.
For the most part, people involved with BDSM are not
“sick” and their hands may not be unlike those who indulge in
more conventional sex. However, I’ve found that there are sev-
eral features in the hand that can indicate a desire for more
intense forms of sexual experience like bondage, domination,
sadism, and masochism:

° A strong, deep life line with a large mount of Venus, revealing

an abundance of energy and stamina, especially if the
thumb is strong and the hand has a firm consistency
° A strong head line, a deep and possibly chained heart line, and
a Simian line, all indicating an intense personality and
strong character
° Separated head and life lines, indicating sexual independence
° A Mercury finger standing far apart from Apollo, revealing a
feeling of being out of the mainstream of respectable
society
Sexual Varieties, Sexual Choices 159

¢ A Jupiter finger that stands out from the rest reveals a

desire to be the center of attention.
¢ Ifthe person is fond of drama and role-playing, the Apollo
finger will likely be long and well formed, and a long
Mercury finger will betray good communicating ability.
¢ A person who likes being the “top” in BDSM scenes
would probably have a Jupiter finger that is longer than
Apollo, a strong thumb, and a large mount of Mars,
especially if this role involves an active physical dynamic
like whipping.

Although many of these traits are found in the hands of the

twenty-four-year-old bisexual woman who enjoys sadomaso-
chism (FIGURE 9-5), it would be wrong to conclude that most
devotees of BDSM share similar hand characteristics. As with
gays, vegetarians, and born-again Christians, people involved in
bondage, domination, sadism, and masochism belong to all
kinds of professions and political persuasions and represent
nearly every personality type known to modern psychology.
Like sexual preference, the boundaries between having, for
example, sadomasochistic inclinations and acting them out are
often very fine. Psychologists tell us that nearly everyone has
entertained thoughts of sexual sadism or masochism at one time
or another, even though for most people such feelings are
seldom, if ever, expressed.

Other Variations

While phone sex, cybersex, talking dirty, using sex toys, and
enjoying pornography are considered fairly normal among
many adults today, other kinds of sexual expression—such as
voyeurism, fetishism, exhibitionism, and cross-dressing—
remain more unconventional. Long viewed as serious acts of
160 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

FIGURE 9-5: The handprint

of a bisexual woman who is
involved with BDSM

perversion by respectable society, such activities are more likely

to be seen today as relatively harmless, provided that they do
not impose on children or unwilling adults.
Some people believe that fantasizing about these practices
(and acting them out) is an act of self-love and a way to assert
sexual confidence and independence. Others believe that they
are expressions of physical and psychological energy blocks that
can have their roots in loneliness, sexual repression, fear, or lack
of self-esteem. Like other sexual practices, they should be of
concern if they interfere with the person’s ability to work, study,
Sexual Varieties, Sexual Choices 161

FIGURE 9-6: The hand-

print of aman who
enjoys cross-dressing

or otherwise participate in daily life, or if they cause him or her

to avoid deep relationships with others or bring about depres-
sion as the result of guilt or fear.
I mentioned before that many people have experienced the
desire to be a voyeur or to dress up in clothing normally worn
by members of the opposite sex. Whether one participates in
these activities has to do not only with personal interest but also
with the ability to shed previous conditioning against such
taboos. FicurE 9-6, for example, is the handprint of a thirty-
year-old male accountant who frequently dresses in women’s
162 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

clothing. The fact that he works for an elegant Fifth Avenue

department store allows him to buy many of his expensive
dresses, shoes, cosmetics, and hairpieces at a special employee
discount.
The palm itself doesn’t offer any specific clues that reveal his
interest in cross-dressing. However, the strong Apollo finger
and accompanying line of Apollo indicate a love of beauty and
a flair for style, and the whorl fingerprint on Apollo show strong
artistic and creative ability. The long (and independent)
Mercury finger reveals a nonconformist’s way of viewing the
world, as well as an ability to communicate well with others; the
Jupiter finger separated from Saturn reveals an interest in being
the center of attention, which he often is.
The sloping head line reveals a strong imagination,
although it is held in check by an upwardly moving branch,
adding an accountant’s practicality. In general, he is cautious,
careful, and somewhat secretive, as seen by the joined head and
life lines and the narrow space between the head and heart lines.
I read his hands during a flight to Rio de Janeiro, where he was
making a pilgrimage to the Carmen Miranda Museum.

Signs of a Sexually Abusive Personality

Sexually abusive behavior, especially toward minors, is certainly
much more serious and unacceptable than any of the uncon-
ventional sexual activities described thus far. A common char-
acteristic among many sex abusers is that they were sexually
abused as children. In the hand, this abuse can be seen as a
major influence line crossing both the life and head lines, often
causing breaks or islands in the head line. Sometimes, the influ-
ence line may even cross the heart line as well.
Sexual Varieties, Sexual Choices 163

Sex abusers are emotionally disturbed. In many instances,

this can be seen by an islanded head line, as well as a “string of
pearls” skin-ridge pattern, an indicator of severe neurosis. A
large, reddish mount of Venus indicates a strong sex drive.
Large, coarse mounts of Mars, reddish nails, and a coarse skin
texture indicate a tendency toward violence. It’s impossible to
look at a person’s hand and state with certainty, “This person is
a child molester” or “This guy is a rapist.” However, there are
some key indicators that can reveal serious sexual and psycho-
logical problems that may lead a person into conduct that can
pose a danger to others. These include:

Abnormally long or short hands and fingers when com-

pared to the person’s body size
Equal-length Jupiter and Saturn fingers or Saturn and
Apollo fingers (Dr. Charlotte Wolff, author of The Hand
in Psychological Diagnosis, found that such configurations
appear primarily in schizophrenics.)
Severely twisted or deformed fingers, especially Jupiter
and Mercury, that are not the result of arthritis or
injury
Severely chained, broken, and islanded head lines
Missing head lines (especially in both hands)
Extremely weak or short head lines, particularly when
accompanied by a strong, deep heart line and a large,
reddish, and coarsely textured mount of Venus
Thumbs that are abnormally short, deformed, or placed
so high on the hand that they appear similar to those of
an infant
An abnormally large, hard, and red mount of Venus,
especially if the skin is coarse and grilled
164 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

¢ Abnormally large, hard, and reddish mounts of Upper

and Lower Mars, especially when found with the type of
Venus mount just described
¢ A Simian line on a rough and poorly shaped hand, espe-
cially when the hand features two or more of the charac-
teristics listed above
The existence of one or two—or even a number—of these
traits does not mean that the person is a sexual psychopath or a
rapist. Features of the hand only reveal potential. In addition,
other positive factors in the hand may counteract negative qual-
ities found in hand shape, fingers, mounts, and lines. This is
why we need to carefully examine the entire hand and be open
to what our intuition tells us about the person whose hands we
are reading.

Understanding Our Sexual Nature

When we counsel others through hand analysis, we have an
opportunity to help them get in touch with their reality. At the
same time, we want to strengthen this self-awareness with
inspiration and constructive advice to help them take the next
step. By understanding our own hands, we can learn to appre-
ciate and accept our sexual nature, which can help other people
on their own journey of discovery and self-acceptance.
Whenever we encounter situations that go beyond our
knowledge or experience, we have a responsibility to refer the
person to a professional who may be better able to help. By
dealing with others with respect and compassion, we can be an
effective catalyst for helping them realize their true potential for
personal growth and happiness.
Chapter 10

Do We Make a Good Fit?

Compatibility in Relationships

In this chapter, we'll discuss:

e The hows and whys of relationships

e¢ Determining emotional compatibility

e Sexual compatibility in the hand

e Marks of sensuality and sensitivity

Signs of stubbornness and domination

Will our love last? Making predictions

166 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

am often asked to read the hands of couples. On one level, it’s

| to analyze the hands of two people, because I’m
always curious about the dynamics of how different relation-
ships work. However, doing a compatibility study to determine
areas of harmony and potential conflict (as well as issues of jeal-
ousy, greed, and domination) can be compared to walking
through a minefield; it requires the utmost sensitivity and tact.
While I've found that a sense of humor is essential when
reading someone else’s hand, it’s important not to embarrass
the person whose hand is being read or intrude on the relation-
ship with ridicule or judgmental statements. I always try to
follow what I call the Golden Rule of Speaking: I make sure
that everything I say is true, kind, and helpful. If it doesn’t sat-
isfy all three requirements, I hold my tongue and move on to
something else.

Reasons for Romance

There are many reasons two people decide to form a romantic

relationship:

¢ They may share common interests and enjoy each other’s

company.
° They may have good sexual rapport, although they like
to pursue their own personal goals in life.
* Some people thrive on being with someone radically dif-
ferent; many couples remain close through constant fric-
tion and conflict.
* Some are together because they like their partner’s wit,
good looks, or bank account.
¢ Others may be spiritually compatible, or they move in
the same social or political circles.
Do We Make a Good Fit? Compatibility in Relationships 167

Believers in reincarnation feel that some relationships may

be bound by ancient “karmic ties” from past lives. The partners
are together in this life because they need to re-establish ancient
ties or resolve old issues from a past incarnation.
For many, relationships can be an avenue for personal
growth. This is especially true if, as Julia A. Bondi discusses in
Lovelight: Unveiling the Mysteries of Sex and Romance, the relation-
ship is shared on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual
levels: “When we begin to connect to our partners on all four
levels of relating, we also begin to approach the true meaning
of love. Love begins when sexual energy touches not only our
genitals but our mind, heart, and spirit as well. Love is sexuality
enlarged, enlightened, and transformed. When we love, we see
our purpose in life. We are motivated to move ahead toward
union and completion not only with our partners but in all areas
of our lives.”

Building Relationships
Whether we want to study our own hands, or are privileged to
read the hands of others, it’s important to have a basic under-
standing of the dynamics of human relationships and how they
can affect our life. Being deeply involved with another person
(whether this develops into marriage or not) often brings up
important emotional issues that we don’t have to face when
we're alone. Our ability to trust, make compromises, be vulner-
able, or share feelings is constantly challenged in a close rela-
tionship. And when we are romantically involved, we are called
on to accept our partner totally, despite his or her eccentricities
or imperfections. As we learn to accept our partner, we come
closer to accepting other people as well: a close relationship with
another person helps us become more at one with the world.
168 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

According to John L. Hoff in his essay “Practical Friendship”:

“We need to know how to build relationships and how to use
that field of force as an energy to nurture and guide us—it is
our primary resource for human evolution and spiritual devel-
opment. It is in relationships that we collaborate with each
other to create a better world.”
Many people are confused about marriage and committed
relationships today. All too often, society sets marriage up as the
ideal for every person and provides tax benefits and other
advantages for those whose unions are sanctioned by the gov-
ernment or church. According to this belief, a marriage should
both be exclusive and last forever. Unfortunately, the reality of
a 30 to 50 percent divorce rate among couples living in indus-
trialized Western countries like the United States—with its
accompanying emotional, financial, and social trauma—points
out the difficulties of this marriage ideal.
Though a romantic at heart, I’ve come to the conclusion
that each person has unique relationship needs. For some, mar-
riage is perfect, and it can open the door to lasting happiness.
For others, marriage (or even a committed relationship) may not
be a good idea at all. Many people are not ready for marriage
and shouldn’t be coerced into it. For some, the freedom of being
single, with its inherent versatility, independence, and freedom
from compromise, may be more important at that point in their
lives than settling down with another person, let alone raising
a family.
Yet those contemplating an important relationship need to
consider their true motivations. They also need to be aware of
any fears or psychological blocks that can prevent them from
achieving a pleasurable relationship that also offers the oppor-
tunity for deep contact and personal growth. Those who are
already in a relationship need to be reminded of the potential
Do We Make a Good Fit? Compatibility in Relationships 169

strengths and weaknesses in their union so that they can reach

greater levels of intimacy with their partner.
The hand reader’s basic task is to help others achieve greater
self-awareness and self-knowledge so that their present or future
relationships can be guided less by society’s expectations and
more by their own genuine needs and aspirations. As a result,
the hand analyst must be extremely careful when making pro-
nouncements on the advisability of establishing or continuing a
relationship. Although palmists can provide a highly valuable
service by making both people aware of the inherent strengths
and weaknesses of their relationship through a detailed analysis
of their hands, we need to leave any decisions about the future
of the relationship itself to the parties involved.

Compatibility and the Hand

If scientists realized the value of hand analysis in the study of
compatibility between two persons, they would learn that the
most reliable computer is the human hand. Although a
mechanical computer can select couples based on their known
rational likes and dislikes, it cannot make a computation based
on nonrational or subconscious factors. These factors include
personality makeup, temperament, ability to communicate, and
primal needs like sexual satisfaction or the urge for empower-
ment—all of which are of vital importance to the relations
between a couple.

Something in Common?

Perhaps the most important consideration in developing a

relationship has to do with the similarities and the differences.
In The Psychology of Sex, the authors point out that “partnerships
170 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

are more successful if based on similarities rather than supposed

complementation” and that similar personality traits and inter-
ests are crucial to successful long-term relationships. On the
other hand, some people point out that there is often more
opportunity for growth in a relationship of opposites, because
each person can learn more about himself or herself and their
relationship through the friction generated by being with
someone with different personality traits and personal interests.
When we consider these polarities, perhaps the ideal rela-
tionship would be with someone with whom there are similari-
ties in areas of most importance, while allowing room for
enough differences to help make the relationship more inter-
esting. Ideally, each partner would share (or, at least, respect) his
or her partner’s views on major issues like religion, politics, and
the desire to have children. They would also hopefully share
basic views on matters like diet, smoking, and sex. If they don’t,
the couple could at least respect the other person’s point of view
and strive to cherish the differences that will come up in any
relationship between two people.

Temperament and Hand Shape

Because the shape of the hand reveals basic temperament, it

should lay the foundation for a compatibility analysis. If one
partner has squarish hands while the partner’s hands are conic,
each will probably have a very different way of seeing the world.
While the owner of the squarish hands will tend to be highly
organized and practical and will enjoy rules and structure in a
relationship, the partner with conic hands would tend toward
the instinctual, spontaneous, and romantic.
Be sure to examine both hands carefully to find eben con-
forming or modifying traits. For example, a separation between
Do We Make a Good Fit? Compatibility in Relationships 171

the life and head lines on a squarish hand will increase spon-
taneity, while a conic hand with a long, straight head line will
reveal a practical, realistic streak.
Also note similarities in hand and thumb flexibility, because
they will indicate how harmoniously the couple is able to face
challenges in life and adapt to the changing world around them.
However, don’t write off the couple if their hands reveal major
differences; if one partner has a stiff hand and the other has a
flexible hand, the two can acknowledge their differences in out-
look and use their divergent approaches to deal with life’s
opportunities.

Sexual Compatibility

Aside from pure sexual attraction, the couple should be sex-

ually compatible. If the relationship has a good sexual founda-
tion, the potential is greater for long-term success. However,
the key to a successful relationship involves more than sexual
compatibility alone: it should involve compatibility on several
levels. According to Omraam Mikhael Atvenov in his book Love
and Sexuality, “The ideal is to agree on all three planes, to have
a mutual physical attraction, a similarity of tastes and feelings
. and most important of all, there must be a tremendous
agreement in the world of ideas, a common goal, an ideal.”
For those who are well matched, deep love blossoms easily
in the ground of marriage. The more compatible or well
matched the couple is, the less the chance of adultery is. This
is because sex is not the sole bond; at many times in the course
of some marriages, it is secondary. However, as compatibility
decreases, the importance of sexual satisfaction increases. If
a couple can compensate for their inevitable personal differ-
ences and emotional makeup, and most important, if they can
172 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

satisfy each other’s basic needs, the chance of adultery and

divorce diminishes.
In addition to providing important insights into a couple’s
ability to relate, modern palmistry can also answer important
questions concerning compatibility: Is one of the partners under-
sexed or oversexed? Which partner is dominating and which is
more dependent and submissive?

Marks of Sensuality
From the mount of Venus and the shape of the little finger, we
can determine the sensuality of an individual. As stated earlier,
if the mount of Venus is well developed and the little finger is
long, we probably have a sensual person who loves physical con-
tact, affection, and sex. Ideally, both partners should have
mounts of Venus of comparable size to their respective physical
builds.
If the mount of Venus is flat, the little finger short, and the
consistency of the hand weak, chances are that sex does not play
an important role in the person’s life. If both partners have this
type of hand, they are likely to be compatible with each other.
If other features of the hand are complementary, the keynote of
their relationship probably includes mutual respect, intellectual
compatibility, and shared interests, such as books, art, or the-
ater. However, their sexual connection is probably not a primary
aspect of their relationship.
Sexual compatibility is a major component of a harmo-
nious, enduring relationship. If the hands of both partners
reveal a similar degree of sensuality, they have a good chance of
making the relationship a success. However if one partner is
very sensual and the other is not, conflicts are likely to plague
Do We Make a Good Fit? Compatibility in Relationships 173

the relationship. One partner will feel sexually frustrated, while

the other will feel that he or she is being imposed on.

Sexual Personality and the Heart Line

Closely related to sexual energy is sexual personality, which is
largely revealed by the heart line. If both people share a deep
“physical” heart line, they will both gravitate toward the purely
sexual aspects of love. They'll be right at home having sex in a
car, in the bushes, or on the kitchen table. By contrast, people
with more “mental” heart lines place more importance on soft
music, candles, cuddling, and emotional support. While per-
sonality variations in a couple are inevitable, a person with a
short physical heart line ending under the Saturn finger and
another with a long, chained mental heart line ending under
Jupiter will probably not be compatible sexually.
Whether having different types and sizes of heart lines will
be a problem can be found by studying other aspects of the
hand, such as the mount of Venus (the key indicator to sex
drive), the Mercury finger (the ability to communicate), a low-
set thumb (revealing the basic level of sexual repression), and
hand flexibility, which could reveal the ability to adapt to
another person’s sexual style.

Fingerprints and Sexual Personality

We mentioned earlier that fingerprints are an important indi-
cator of personality. And like skin texture, flexibility, mounts,
and lines, they have a bearing on compatibility in a relationship.
Generally speaking, people whose fingerprints are primarily
of the loop variety are the easiest to deal with in a relationship.
174 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

They are by nature flexible, adaptable, and have a well-rounded

view of things.
By contrast, owners of hands where whorls predominate
tend to be the most difficult to get along with: they are inde-
pendent and like to do things their way. In addition to being
secretive, they are less likely to adapt to their partner’s needs,
unless other hand characteristics are present, like a flexible hand
and supple thumb.
I’ve found that people with arch fingertip patters like to
build or fix things. They enjoy working on their car or com-
puter, spending time in the garden, or experimenting with new
recipes in the kitchen. If the non-arch partner understands that
these activities are important, domestic tranquility can be
achieved.
If one partner has a hand with mostly loop fingerprints
while his partner has mostly whorls, he will likely adapt to her
needs. If both partners have loops predominating, they can be
so adaptable that it may be difficult for them to make decisions
together. Yet when both partners have whorl fingertip patterns,

A Sensitive Match
Ideally, the degree of sensitivity between two people in a relationship
should be approximately the same, so that each partner is likely to be
aware of the other person's feelings and emotional needs. While fine skin
texture with lots of lines is a clear indicator of a sensitive nature, a chained
or fretted heart line is also important, because it reflects deep emotions as
well. However, if both partners tend to be very sensitive (as shown in the
handprint found in FIGURE 10-1), their relationship could be somewhat
difficult. Each partner could overreact to almost any conflict or problem
and blow it completely out of proportion. If one person is slightly less sen-
sitive than the other, there is a greater chance for balance.
Do We Make a Good Fit? Compatibility in Relationships 175

FIGURE 10-1:
A sensitive hand

harmony in the relationship will likely be a challenge, especially

if their hands and thumbs are firm or rigid.
Double loops reveal a person who is extremely thorough
and who likes to consider all sides of an issue. While a perfect
trait for a counselor or judge, this pattern makes it difficult to
make decisions. If your partner has this pattern and needs to go
shopping, avoid frustration by letting him go by himself. He is
likely to insist on visiting every clothing store in the mall before
buying that pair of pants, especially if his fingers are long and
knotted.
176 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Marks of Stubbornness

Stiff thumbs and rigid hands are sure signs of a strong will and
stubborn personality. When both partners share this trait, nei-
ther will want to compromise over an issue or problem. If the
couple is generally compatible in most areas of their life, this
should not be a problem; but if there are many divergent issues,
it almost definitely will be a source of friction. In such cases, a
good hand analyst will point out their need to become more
aware of their willfulness, to develop the ability to compromise,
and to strive to understand the other person’s point of view. The
comparative analyses of the hands of the three couples in
Chapter 12 will offer some practice guidance about determining
compatibility by reading the hands.

Marks of Domination

I mentioned earlier that a long, well-developed index finger with

an enlarged muscular pattern at the base signifies a dominating
nature (FIGURE 10-2). Such people like to be in charge and enjoy
being in control. They like to “be on top” in their relationships.
If both partners are undersexed or if both are oversexed,
problems are unlikely to arise. Unless other major difficulties
are present in the relationship, a woman with a low sex drive is
less likely to leave a husband who is not sexually demanding,
nor will a highly sexed woman leave a man who is ready for
lovemaking at any time.
However important sex may be, it often becomes secondary
in a compatible marriage in which one partner is dominant and
the other is submissive or dependent by nature. Couples seldom
engage in adultery or get divorced when one who has to domi-
nate to be happy chooses a partner who likes to be dominated.
Do We Make a Good Fit? Compatibility in Relationships Lae

The best results are obtained when one partner is as dominant

as the other is submissive.
You don’t need to be a professional marriage counselor to
understand what happens when both partners are dominant -
types: Their domestic life can resemble a battleground. However,
the clash of personalities may be modified by sexual enjoyment
of each other and can even add spice to the relationship.
Because the dominating partner is usually quite vain, he or
she will fall for a partner who liberally dispenses praise and
affection. When dominating people receive enough attention
from their partner, they often sublimate their dominating

FIGURE 10-2: A long,

strong Jupiter finger
178 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

nature. Dominating partners who feel neglected are a different

story. They tend to have frequent explosions of temper. Because
domineering people need to assure themselves of their attrac-
tiveness, they are likely to flirt and may even have sexual rela-
tions outside their primary relationship.
The dependent woman could easily be described as the old-
fashioned wife who loves, honors, and obeys. This type of
woman is becoming harder to find today, as women realize their
true inner strengths and are less likely to submit to the beliefs
and expectations of a patriarchal society that has long domi-
nated our culture.
Other factors such as intelligence, emotional stability, relia-
bility, self-esteem, patience, impulsiveness, temper, and the
ability to communicate will also play a major role in determining
a compatible relationship. This is why the palmist should learn
about all aspects of the hand in order to put together an accurate
overview, both individually and as part of the person’s total psy-
chological picture.

Beware of Making Predictions

Because the lines on the hand can change (and the union line is
among the most changeable of all), hand readers should be
careful about making predictions like “You will divorce by the
time you are forty” or “You'll never get married.” In addition to
the probability of being wrong, you may also be creating self-
fulfilling prophesies in the person’s life.
The primary value of psychologically-oriented palmistry is
to help the person you are doing a reading for achieve greater
self-understanding. A clear, accurate, and objective reading will
remind him of aspects of his personality he may already be
aware of and will offer new insights into areas of his character
Do We Make a Good Fit? Compatibility in Relationships L79

he may have ignored. This is doubly true when you are reading
for a couple. After you have shared the information you see in
the hands, it is now up to the person (or persons) being read to
take the next step.
This does not mean that you cannot comment on trends
that you see in the hand, such as conflicts in the relationship or
even separation. Almost every intimate relationship between
two people requires work, and you aren’t doing anyone a favor
by ignoring potential problems.
Yet the way you present the information is crucial. If you see
a possible separation, for example, it’s much more helpful to say
something like, “I see a possible breakup unless you and your
husband work on this relationship.” In this way, you point out
a potential problem and help the person take control of the sit-
uation rather then leave it to “fate.”

The Best We Can Do

Whenever we counsel an individual or couple, the best service

that palmists can provide is to enable people to become more
aware of themselves. This includes helping them to achieve a
deeper understanding of their individual strengths and weak-
nesses and how they can manifest as potential barriers and hidden
potentials in their relationships. By objectively clarifying the
issues and helping each person become aware of his or her psy-
chological and sexual nature—and how it can affect a relation-
ship—we help the person assume responsibility for his or her life.
However, unless you are trained in marriage counseling or
psychotherapy, avoid specific counseling or therapy of any kind.
Sharing information and good advice is one thing, and prac-
ticing therapy is another. Whenever you feel that such services
are needed, refer the couple to an appropriate professional.
 ae
‘Ae

eo
Section Ill

Practice
Chapter 11

How to Read Hands

In this chapter, we'll discuss:

e The role of a hand reader

e Caring, but objective

e The importance of privacy

Preparing to read hands

A suggested technique

Making a handprint

A Hand Analysis Test Chart

184 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Ithough reading hands can be fun (especially when you're

Vaeeitee about sex), it’s also serious. Simply stated, hand
analysis involves one person letting another person study a part
of his or her body and then make pronouncements on sensitive
and personal issues like health, personality, and sexuality. In a
sense, palmistry can be compared to reading someone’s private
letters or journals. For this reason, you have to be careful about
what you say and how you say it.
Though it is sometimes tempting, hand analysis must never
be used to impress or seduce (sexually or otherwise), nor to gain
power or control over another person’s life. You must be as
objective as possible, while maintaining close contact with the
other person during the reading. Honesty is important, yet you
must phrase every observation and suggestion in a way that is
truthful, kind, and helpful. I mentioned earlier that if what you
have to say does not satisfy these three requirements, it is better
to say nothing.
At the same time, it’s easy to focus only on the positive aspects
of the hand. While we should help those we read for become
aware of their talents and abilities, we don’t do them any favors
by glossing over difficult aspects or areas of conflict in their lives.
Timing is important. Sometimes it is not appropriate to
reveal information, especially if it would cause unnecessary pain
or if the person would not be able to deal with the particular
issue or problem. This issue can often be dealt with by stressing
the fact that the hands show tendencies, and that the lines in
the hand can change over time.

Counseling or Therapy?
Although the primary goal of a palmist should be to help those
who come for a reading, it is important to realize that, as hand
How to Read Hands 185

readers, we are not practicing therapy. Therapy involves a reg-

ular ongoing process in the deep psychological change of an
individual and should only be performed by a qualified psy-
chotherapist or other professional. Counseling, on the other
hand, is relatively brief and is usually intended to work on spe-
cific areas of concern, such as health, career, or relationships.
Although the hand reader’s task often involves some level of
counseling, that is not the major goal. Rather, our primary task
is that of education, involving a one-time sharing of informa-
tion. The person receiving the reading wants to be told about
him or herself with the goal of expanding self-knowledge and
personal well-being. It’s possible that a consultation may lead
an individual to seek counseling or therapy, but this is not the
reader’s main task. For this reason, one or two consultations a
year are adequate, while referring the person to an appropriate
counselor, therapist, or health professional as needed.
I know several professional hand analysts who have taken
courses in psychology or counseling. Some have even obtained
certificates or degrees in these fields. If you have more than a
casual interest in the art and science of palmistry, some knowl-
edge of psychology and counseling techniques can be of great
benefit to those who seek your help.

The Goal: Involved Detachment

Perhaps one of the most difficult lessons for the hand reader to
learn is the need to take a personal interest in the people receiving
the reading while remembering that they are responsible for their
own lives. Nevertheless, when major issues are exposed and dis-
cussed, never leave the person hanging; instead try to lead him or
her to the next step whenever possible. According to Stephen
Arroyo in his excellent book Astrology, Psychology and the Four
186 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Privacy: The Unalienable Right

Respect for privacy is often overlooked by hand readers. In my work, |!
prefer to read an individual's hands alone, in a quiet setting, without the
involvement of a third party looking on or asking questions (unless the
person whose hands are being read freely gives consent). Although tape-
recording the reading tends to encourage the person to pay less attention
to the reading when it is being given, | do not object to its use. | make it a
point to never discuss a reading with others. At the time | read someone's
hands, it is our business. After the consultation is over, the information
discussed is no longer my affair and | usually forget about what | have seen.

Elements, “One should realize that merely giving advice without

also giving a means for deeper understanding is of little value,
for each person must do his or her own work and must, through
his or her own experience, arrive at the higher awareness that
enables the person to outgrow or transcend the difficulty.”
In addition to a possible referral to a counselor or therapist,
this work may involve getting reactions and asking questions, so
the person being read will take a more active role in the reading
rather than merely being a passive listener. This participation
will also lead to seeking personal solutions to problems. Very
often we know the solutions to our problems on a deep level, but
we are accustomed to avoiding them or having someone else
provide the solution.

A Suggested Hand-Reading Technique

There is no single method or technique to reading a hand.
Although I encourage each reader to develop a method that works
best for him or her, the following general procedure may be helpful.
How to Read Hands 187

Preparation

Before you read another’s hand, try to become aware of

both the privilege and the responsibility involved. Meditation -
and prayer are useful to help you become grounded in your
“core” or higher self and to come into closer contact with your
intuition.
Before you look at the person’s hands, ask if he or she has
ever had a reading before. Point out that the hands show ten-
dencies and not always definite facts, and that the hands can
change, even within a matter or weeks.
Ask the person’s age and find out if they are right- or left-
handed. Explain that the passive hand is more the storehouse of
our potential, while the active hand more clearly expresses what
we are doing with it.

Looking at the Hands

Sitting directly across from the client, take both hands in

yours and look at them. Close your eyes for a moment and say
a silent prayer or meditation to help you focus and do your best.
I ask simply, “Thy will be done,” while a friend prefers “I pray
that all I may now tell him/her will be for his/her highest good
and the highest good of all concerned.” This momentary spiri-
tual focusing need not be noticeable to the person who has come
to you for a consultation; it can appear as though you are merely
collecting your thoughts before proceeding with the reading.
Look carefully at both hands. Take note of the size, shape,
skin texture, and flexibility. Note the positions and length of the
fingers, taking into account the basic hand types. Don’t be
afraid to touch, bend, and squeeze the hands gently as you
examine them.
188 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Observe the fingers carefully, taking special note of their

size, flexibility, shape, and contour. Are any of the fingers bent?
Which are prominent and which are weak? How are they
“held” on the hand? In addition, take note of the skin ridge pat-
terns on each of the fingertips. Use a magnifying glass if you
need to.
Turn the hands over and observe the nails, and ask the
person to open the hands wide. Check out the knuckles as well
as the relative position of the fingers to each other and to the
hand as a whole.
Turn the hand over again and examine the mounts. Run
your finger over each mount and judge their relative strength.
Note any markings on the mounts, such as squares, crosses, and
grilles. Be aware of any specific skin ridge patterns between the
fingers or on the mounts of Luna, Venus, or Mars.
Look at the lines, taking careful notice of their strength,
clarity, and length. Where do they begin and where do they
end? Are there breaks, dots, or islands on the lines? Are there
branches or color changes? How do the lines differ on each
hand?
After examining the hands for a few minutes, you will get
a “feel” for the hand and a basic understanding of the person
you are reading. Take the active hand and begin reading,
being ready to look at the passive hand for confirming or con-
trasting traits. Begin the reading at a point that feels most
appropriate. With some people, you may decide immediately
to discuss health issues, while with others you may begin with
some observations about character or career. You may also
prefer to simply go over the hand features one by one. Use
your judgment.
Continue your reading, being sure to cover all areas of
interest including health, life history, emotional characteristics,
How to Read Hands 189

career, travel, relationships, and other aspects like creativity and

spirituality. Proceed slowly, always being open to intuitive mes-
sages from your subconscious.
Don’t forget to make frequent eye contact with the person
whose hands you are reading. You may prefer to answer ques-
tions during the reading itself, or ask for questions when you are
done.
Throughout the reading, try to keep the following ques-
tions in the back of your mind and ask yourself if you are
dealing with them:

¢ What is the person really looking for?

¢ What is she/he ready to hear?
* Is what I am saying appropriate for this person at this
time?
¢ What is the best approach to help this person develop
his/her sense of initiative, responsibility, and participa-
tion in life?
* Does the reading touch on sensitive issues of my own
that may affect the reading and my objectivity?
¢ Am I making myself clear and am I being understood?

At the conclusion of the reading, people often ask questions

such as, “Will I get married (or divorced)?” or “How many chil-
dren will I have?” Since the hands show probabilities and there-
fore can change, make it clear that any specific prediction is
pure guesswork.
When practiced with care, sensitivity, and humility, hand
analysis can be an endless source of adventure, learning, and
inspiration. By helping others increase their self-knowledge, we
invariably deepen our own. By helping others “remove the
stones from the path,” we open our own channel for compassion
and service.
190 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

How to Take Handprints

One of the best ways to deepen our understanding of the hand
is to maintain a record of the hands we analyze. Although
plaster casts faithfully show hand shape and lines, they are com-
plicated to make and extremely difficult to store. Photographs
of the hands are simple to take and store but often lack detail.
Photocopy machines and scanners often miss small lines and
markings.
The easiest and cheapest method of recording hands is
taking palm prints. Although the prints don’t always reveal the
exact hand shape, lines and skin ridge patterns can be faithfully
reproduced, especially after some practice.
When used in conjunction with the Hand Analysis Test
Chart described later on, a collection of handprints can be very
useful. In addition to providing a permanent record of the hand
itself, follow-up prints can reveal changes in the hands over the
years.

What You Will Need: Materials

The materials needed for taking handprints are both inex-

pensive and easy to obtain:

* Good-quality art paper (You may prefer single sheets or a

spiral-bound art book for easier storage.)
° A thin pad offoam rubber (a large computer mouse pad can
work) or a tea towel to provide a suitable cushion for the
paper
° A rubber roller approximately 4 inches (10 cm) wide
° A tube ofblack water-base block printing ink (In my opinion,
the best ink available is manufactured by Daler-Rowney
How to Read Hands 19

in England, although Speedball brand ink is suitable and

easily found in the United States and Canada.)
° A pane ofglass, linoleum, or newspaper for applying the ink
(An old newspaper is most convenient, but the paper
tends to absorb the ink.)

How to Take a Handprint

1. Lay the paper over the foam rubber, which helps mold
the paper to conform to the contours of the hand. Roll
out the ink on the glass, linoleum, or newspaper.
. Carefully ink the subject’s hand, using just enough ink
to lightly cover the entire palmar surface.
Have the subject place his or her hand on the paper in a
natural way, without intentionally opening or closing
the fingers.
Apply pressure to the entire hand (paying special
attention to the center of the palm and the space
between the finger mounts) in order to obtain a com-
plete impression.
You may also want to carefully outline the hand in
pencil to record the approximate shape of the hand.
Hold the paper to the table as the hand is slowly with-
drawn. This will prevent the print from blurring. The
finished print will be dry in several minutes.

In addition to the print itself, include a record of the major

features of the hand, such as the shape, dominant fingers and
mounts, as well as personal data concerning the individual
whose print you are including in your collection. A suggested
Hand Analysis Test Chart is included here for your convenience.
Wy SEXUAL PALMISTRY

The Hand Analysis Test Chart

PREDOMINANT HAND TYPE

SUOMNFESE MOU US Heeects: oe

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How to Read Hands 193

The Hand Analysis Test Chart (continued)

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Chapter 12

Analysis of Handprints

In this chapter, we'll discuss:

e Hands of long-time couples

e Hands of a couple in a new relationship

e Hands of a young boy

The hand of a pleasure lover

A sexual adventurer

A sexually inexperienced man

The hand of a sexy senior

196 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

ver the years, I’ve had the good fortune to read the hands
O;: a wide variety of interesting people from many different
backgrounds and nationalities. | thought it would be fun to
include the hands of several couples and individuals in this
book, and present brief analyses of their hands.

Analysis 1: A Long-Married Couple

The prints reproduced here (FiGURES 12-1 and 12-2) are of a
couple who recently celebrated their fifty-eighth wedding

FIGURE 12-1: Masha's handprint

Analysis of Handprints 1OF

anniversary. While each person is different both in character and

professional interest (the wife, whom we'll call Masha, is a
former artist, while her husband, Michael, continues to teach
college-level math), they find that their long life together offers
both strong similarities and contrasts.
Their joined head and life lines indicate a shared caution
toward life and a tendency to depend on the other. Both are
intelligent and have a broad range of intellectual interests, as
seen by their long, strong head lines. They have comparable

FIGURE 12-2: Michael's handprint

198 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

mounts of Venus, similar heart lines (which shows that they

understand each other emotionally), and an ability to commu-
nicate well with each other. They also share a love of music,
reading, and travel. Both continue to be very active well into
their eighties.
Although Michael and Masha are in basic agreement on
most important issues, they have different ways of seeing the
world. Michael tends to be more conservative and rational (he’s
a mathematician, after all) while Masha is more rebellious and
eager to explore new ideas and trends, as seen by her more
widely separated Mercury finger. In addition, she tends to be
more restless, as seen by the tiny lines moving from her life line
toward the Luna mount. Although both enjoy being together,
each partner gives the other lots of physical and psychological
space to pursue his or her separate interests. Both Michael and
Masha have more than one union line, which reveals other deep
friendships in addition to their marriage.
When problems arise in the relationship, they make an
effort to seek compromise, as both have stiff thumbs and rela-
tively rigid hands. The hands are somewhat similar in shape,
and they are both fairly rational and practical in the way they
deal with new situations.
The essence of their long and happy relationship involves a
balance between both interdependence and dependency, with a
strong sense of shared affection, loyalty, and respect for each
other’s needs.

Analysis 2: Another Long-Term Couple

These prints (FIGURES 12-3 and 12-4) are those of a gay couple,
whom we will call Richard and Dale. They first met in the army
twenty-nine years before these prints were taken, when Richard
Analysis of Handprints 199

was a colonel and Dale a corporal. They fell in love and have
been together ever since, as partners in a monogamous rela-
tionship, co-owners of a successful business, and as a couple
enjoying their well-deserved retirement.
Outwardly, the two appear quite different. Richard, who is
seventy-four, is more the “colonel” and is seen as more mature
and decisive and the stronger of the two. Dale, who is fifty-two,
is viewed as more the “corporal” and is more laid-back, carefree,
and compliant.
However, an examination of their hands reveals strong
personalities for each partner, with many areas of similarity.
The hand shapes are similar, although the fingers on Dale’s
hands are shorter when compared to the size of his palm,
revealing a strong instinctual nature. Richard’s fingers are
comparatively longer, and his knotted fingers show his ten-
dency to analyze and focus on details. Both men are very intel-
ligent, with their head lines approximately the same length
and moving in the same direction. Their heart lines are similar
as well, except that Dale’s is slightly more “physical,”
revealing a bit more sensitivity than his partner. The mounts
of Venus are approximately the same size; both hands feature
Samaritan lines; and their Saturn lines depict successful
careers. Both hands show lines of restlessness (small lines
branching off the base of the life line), and Richard and Dale
continue to travel extensively.
Both hands have long and straight Mercury fingers,
revealing good communicating ability and a shared honesty
that is vital for any good relationship. Dale’s Mercury finger
separates from the hand more than Richard’s, revealing a more
independent thinker. Both have Jupiter fingers that separate
from the Saturn finger, revealing that both like being the center
of attention (Dale’s hand reveals that he enjoys it more).
 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

FIGURE 12-3:
Richard's handprint

Both men have firm hands and strong “stubborn” thumbs,

especially Dale, revealing that he has his way more than we
might think. However, both partners tend to agree on most
issues, and they rarely have serious conflicts. Other similarities
include their sense of caution (by similar joinings of the lines of
life and head); strong life lines (revealing good health and phys-
ical vitality—Richard’s mother lived to be 103); lines of intu-
ition; and clear lines of Apollo, which show a love of beauty and
strong creative ability. Both also have strong union lines and
numerous travel lines.
Analysis of Handprints 201

FIGURE 12-4: Dale's handprint

In addition to their love for each other, they genuinely enjoy

being together, whether at home, work, or travel. While they
have a wide circle of friends, they are very much a couple and
are seen as role models for their many friends and acquain-
tances.

Analysis 3: A New Couple

Here are the handprints (FIGURES 12-5 and 12-6) of Sandy,
twenty, and Vincent, twenty-two, who began dating two years
OZ SEXUAL PALMISTRY

ago. In their relationship (the first for both), they have devel-
oped a mature friendship based on a trust and mutual respect.
Though Vincent’s hand is clearly the larger and more mas-
culine hand of the two, both hands share similar “mental” heart
lines of near-equal length, with added girdles of Venus,
revealing sensitivity and a strong capacity for affection. They
also have remarkably similar head lines, which betray high
intelligence and strong imaginations. Both are creative and
artistic as shown by whorls on the ring finger; Vincent’s hand

FIGURE 12-5:
Sandy's handprint
\
\
Analysis of Handprints 203

also includes a “creative curve” along the percussion of his hand.

Both have strong knots in their fingers and joined life and head
lines, showing that caution, love of detail, and analysis play
important roles in their lives.
Although both enjoy the being the center of attention
(as seen by the Jupiter finger standing out from the others), °
Vincent’s Jupiter finger stands farther apart from Saturn,
showing that he likes the limelight more than Sandy. Both have
long Mercury fingers that bend in slightly, indicating good

FIGURE 12-6:
Vincent's handprint
204 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

communicating ability coupled with diplomacy and tact. Their

thumbs are set at similar angles, showing a shared sense of con-
servatism regarding their personal behavior.
Although whorl fingerprints are found on both of their
hands (revealing creativity and originality), Vincent has whorls
on all fingers, making him more independent and less concerned
about what others may think or say. While Sandy has a loop of
seriousness in her hand, Vincent has a loop of humor; his Saturn
finger bending toward Apollo also reveals a more solitary nature.
Vincent’s Jupiter finger bends inward more than Sandy’s, which
leads me to believe that he can be more jealous and possessive.
Both Sandy and Vincent have almost identical union lines.
While this can be interpreted as a sign for a potentially strong
marriage, it also offers encouragement for a long and deep
friendship, no matter what direction their relationship may take.

Analysis 4: A Four-Year-Old Boy

Even at an early age, the hands can show strong indications of
temperament and sexual personality, as seen in the hand prints
(FIGURE 12-7) of a four-year old boy. Since he is right-handed, the
separation of the head and life lines on the right hand (they are
joined on the left) indicates that he is more self-confident than
his genetic tendencies would indicate (his parents, who describe
him as “fearless,” have always been generous with both praise
and emotional support).
The “mental” heart line is deep and long. It is also some-
what chained, revealing a passionate individual who can fall in
love easily and remain very devoted to his partner. The
Samaritan lines will strengthen his caring nature. The heart
line, however, is balanced by a strong, realistic head line and a
squarish hand shape, indicating a practical approach to life. The
Analysis of Handprints 205

FIGURE 12-7: The handprints

of a four-year-old boy
206 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

mount of Venus is large and well-formed, revealing a high

energy level. The thumb on the right hand normally opens as
widely as that on the left, revealing an independent spirit and
an unconventional way of viewing the world. The Mercury
finger is prominent and, while not overly long, reveals good
communicative ability.
At the time this print was taken, he had two clear lines of
union in the hand, although they can barely be seen in the print.
The handprints of children can change dramatically in a short
time, so it’s always a good idea to take follow-up prints of a
child’s hands every year or so.

Analysis 5: A Lover of Fun and Pleasure

This is the hand of a fifty-four-year old comedienne, television
personality, accomplished author, and noted psychic (FIGURE
12-8). The keywords to describe her hand are pleasure loving
and spontaneous. Though monogamously involved with her
husband of nearly twenty years, she can be charming and flirta-
tious. Sex is often a major theme in her readings and comedy
skits.
Her strong physical heart line reveals an interest in exciting
sexual scenes, and the separation between the lines of heart and
head reveals her impulsiveness and lack of sexual inhibition.
Her prominent mount of Venus, as well as her soft, fleshy hand
and fingers, reveal her love of pleasure, which often includes
food (she claims that the only French terms she knows are ow
and soupe du jour). The short, smooth fingers reveal a sponta-
neous, instinctual person who has little time for analysis and
detail.
She has a straight and strong Mercury finger, favoring good
communication and an honest, direct way of dealing with
Analysis of Handprints 207

FIGURE 12-8: The handprint

of a lover of pleasure

others. Her numerous healing lines on the Mercury mount

reveal her gifts as a healer, while her large Luna mount betrays
a protective “Earth Mother” personality: she fulfills these tal-
ents as a professional psychic and palmist who has counseled
thousands of people. Her long Jupiter finger indicates her ten-
dency to be domineering and the need to have things her way
in social and business situations. Her prominent memory loop
(located under the end of the head line) and small diagonal lines
moving up Luna reflect strong psychic ability.
208 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Analysis 6: A Sexual Adventurer

This is the hand of a thirty-two-year-old cameraman and video
engineer (FIGURE 12-9). Of all the people whose prints appear in
this book, his sexual history is perhaps the most unusual.
Bisexual and involved in BDSM with both women and men, he
has been sexually active since childhood. Over the years, he has
participated in a wide variety of sexual practices with an equally
wide range of partners, including army generals, militant les-
bians, and numerous farm animals. An avid motorcyclist, he

FIGURE 12-9: The handprint

of a sexual adventurer
Analysis of Handprints 209

claims to have enjoyed sex with a passenger while driving a

motorcycle, bringing another dimension to the concept of
unsafe sex. At the time this print was taken, he was involved in
a serious live-in relationship with a woman, who shares his
interest in bondage, discipline, sadism, and masochism. This
relationship can probably be seen in the strong union line on his
mount of Mercury.
The low-set angle of the thumb and the wide space between
the lines of life and head are two major indicators of his unin-
hibited sexual lifestyle and his unconventional views on sex and
relationship. The large and prominent mount of Venus reveals
strong passion and an abundant sex drive. The slightly short
Jupiter finger may reveal a lack of self-esteem and hence the
desire to prove himself sexually, although it is neither abnormally
short nor weak. All of his fingerprints are of the loop variety,
indicating an ability to fit in with diverse types of people.
He has sometimes considered himself a sexual therapist of
sorts (as seen by his Samaritan lines on the Mercury mount) and
speaks about his sexual experiences with lesbians, who would
not normally agree to have sex with a man. Here, too, there
may be an element of trying to prove himself, but this may be
due more to his innate love of adventure and risk, as seen by the
horizontal line moving from the percussion of the hand through
the Luna mount.
The head line is basically clear and strong, revealing a
strong mind and good intelligence; the heart line is long and
sensitive, with a downward branch revealing the potential for
conflicts between the mind and the emotions in matters of love.
The chained heart line acts as a balance for the somewhat coarse
texture of the skin. His long (though low-set) Mercury finger is a
sign of a good communicator, both in and out of bed; the fact that
it is straight shows a direct, honest way of dealing with others.
210 SEXUAL PALMISTRY

Analysis 7: A Sexually Inexperienced Young Man

Here is the hand of a twenty-five-year-old male (FiGuRE 12-10). In
contrast to the owner of the previous handprint, this individual
is a virgin and has never had a romantic attachment. Although
some people choose to remain celibate until marriage (or at least
until they develop a deep relationship with their partner), the
primary reason for this man’s inexperience is sexual inhibition.
He has a good-size mount of Venus, indicating vitality and
sexual energy, and a strong mount of Luna, showing a protective
nature and good instincts. Though somewhat low-set, the
Mercury finger is of average length and size, revealing the ability
to communicate.

FIGURE 12-10: The handprint of

a sexually inexperienced man
Analysis of Handprints aad

Yet there are several indicators that reveal some of the reasons
for his predicament. The life line and head line are strongly bound
together at their commencement, revealing cautiousness and a
tendency to worry about what others may say; this is coupled
with a narrow space between the head and heart lines, betraying
a secretive nature and a tendency to be emotionally repressed.
The islanded head line (especially before thirty years of age)
reveals emotional problems, confusion, and lack of focus. The
heart line is especially interesting because it is both sensitive and
mental, yet it ends under the Saturn mount, revealing that he
is ruled more by his mind than his feelings. At the same time,
the girdle of Venus adds to his sensitive, romantic nature and
strengthens sexual feelings in general. It’s obvious that such
contradictory elements in the hand can produce major problems
within himself and in his relationships with others.
The good news is that a prominent union line appears far-
ther up on the hand, which could indicate that he may enjoy a
deep, romantic relationship in the future. However, much will
depend on how he works to resolve his lack of self-esteem, fear,
secretiveness, and the tendency to repress his feelings.

Analysis 8: A Sexy Older Man

This is the hand print of a ninety-year-old man (FiGURE 12-11). A
former logger and construction worker, he married early in life
and fathered nine children. After his wife died, he eventually
remarried, at the age of seventy-seven, an attractive widow a
few years younger than himself.
The outstanding feature of his hand is the distinctively spat-
ulate fingers, revealing a dynamic, adventurous individual with
a strong sensuous nature. The clear and well-defined lines (espe-
cially his life line and accessory “inner” life line) attest to both
good health and physical energy, which also perhaps made him
bo fondbo SEXUAL PALMISTRY

is

FIGURE 12-11: The handprint

of a sexy older man

appear far younger than his years. His large mount of Venus
would reflect that he was sexually active until his late eighties
at least (although at the time I knew him, I was too shy to ask,
and the narrow space between the head and heart lines reveal a
man who treasures his privacy in any case). A strict vegetarian
and an avid horticulturist, he was physically active just two
months before his death at the age of ninety-one.
His strong mount of Venus, long Mercury finger, deep heart
line, and spatulate fingers reveal a man who enjoyed sharing
love and affection. His wife once told me that she never experi-
enced good sex until she met him, and she often commented
that he was “the dessert of my life.”
Bibliography

Aivenoy, Omraam Mikhael. Love and Sexuality. (Fréjus, France: Editions

Prosveta, 1976).
Arroyo, Stephen. Astrology, Psychology and the Four Elements. (Davis, CA:
CRCS Publications, 1975).
Bennett, J. G. Sex. (York Beach, ME: Samuel Weiser, 1981).
Bondi, Julia with Nathaniel Altman. Lovelight: Unveiling the Mysteries of
Sex and Romance. (New York: Bantam Books, 1989).
Eysenck, H.J., and Glenn Wilson. The Psychology of Sex. (London: New
England Library, 1979).
“A Finger on Sexuality,” BBC News Online, 29 March 2000.
Fitzherbert, Andrew, “Spaces Between the Fingers,” Palmistry Inter-
national 2, no. 3(1978): 81-83.
Fitzherbert, Andrew, “The Attachment Lines,” Palmistry International 2,
no. 4 (1978): 97-100.
Fitzherbert, Andrew. Hand Psychology. (Sydney and London: Angus and
Robertson, 1986).
Foote, Edward B. Dr. Foote’s New Book on Health and Disease, with Recipes,
Including Sexology. (New York: Murray Hill Publishing Co., 1903).
Hoff, John L., “Practical Friendship,” Im Context (summer 1985).
Janus, Sam, Barbara Bess, and Carol Saltus. A Sexual Profile of Men in
Power. (Engelewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall, 1977).
Lowen, Alexander. Love and Orgasm. (New York: Collier Books, 1975).
. Pleasure. (New York: Penguin Books, 1975).
Rosenberg, Jack Lee, Majorie L. Rand (contributor), and Diane Asay
(contributor). Body, Self and Soul: Sustaining Integration. (Atlanta:
Humanics Ltd, 1987).
Spier, Julius. The Hands of Children. (London: Routledge & Kegan Paul,
55).
West, D. J. Homosexuality, (London: Gerald Duckworth, 1955).
Winks, Cathy, and Anne Semans. The New Good Vibrations Guide to Sex
(San Francisco: Cleis Press, 1977).
Wolff, Charlotte. The Hand in Psychological Diagnosis. (New York:
Philosophical Library, 1952).

Z1S
For Further Information
If you'd like to learn more about the art and science of palmistry, the fol-
lowing books and Internet resources may be of interest.

Books
The Little Giant Encyclopedia of Palmistry by Nathaniel Altman (Sterling
Publishing, 1999). My pocket-sized, yet comprehensive guide about
hand analysis as applied to personality, health, and career. Includes
sections on Chinese and Indian palmistry.
Palmistry: The Whole View by Judith Hipskind (Llewellyn Publications,
1987). An easy-to-read treatise on palmistry by a renowned expert.
The Art ofHand Reading by Lori Reid (DK Living, 1999). A well-written
and beautifully presented introduction to palmistry by one of the
world’s leading palmists.
Your Fate Is in Your Hands by Donna McCue with Stacey Donovan (Pocket
Books, 2000). A wise yet entertaining guide for using palmistry to
facilitate changes in your life.

On the Internet
www.healingsprings.com|palmistry.html
The author’s palmistry page, including an introduction to palmistry,
FAQ, contact information, and links.
www.palmistryonline.co.uk
The home page of the International Palmistry Association, offering
information about palmistry and online courses.
www.handanalysis.net
The home page of the International Institute of Hand Analysis, based in
San Rafael, CA. Includes information about courses, journals, and tapes.
www.paralumun.com|palmistry.htm
The palmistry page at Paralumun New Age Womens Village. Lots of
good palmistry material, along with lots of ads.
www.readmyhands.com
Home page of the world’s first instant hand reading decks, including
“The Girl Deck” and “The Love Deck.” Developed by Marion Gale,
they are both entertaining and packed with useful guidance about
personality and relationships.
214
Acknowledgments

I would like to thank the following people who helped in the

preparation of this edition: Linda James and Igor Zevin for their
excellent line drawings of hands.

a)
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Cover image ©Michael A. Keller Studios, LTD/CORBIS

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