Associative cards activate the subconscious. The process of bypassing the mind allows advancement into the depths of the psyche. It takes only a couple of seconds to trigger free and spontaneous associations in the mind and reveal the power of our inner images, bringing into view the presence of archetypes and energies within ourselves. Cards are a playful way to explore the subconscious, develop creativity and emotional skills, and bring us into contact with the essence of the self.

You can use cards in many ways. It is useful for stimulating reflection and retrospection, for example:
http://www.agilelearninglabs.com/2013/07/dixit-sprint-retrospective-game/

Playing alone with the cards, you can learn to observe and explore your feelings by reading the cards in a metaphoric and personal way. This is done in five steps:
1. Pick a word card and an image card, and put the image card on the word card.
2. What does this word mean to me?
3. What do I see in this picture?
4. How do I connect the image to the word?
5. What does this mean to me?

When playing in a group, one player gives their interpretation of their cards and others can provide feedback to clarify the interpretation, while following a few simple instructions regarding mutual respect. The game can also be played in pairs. Through the combination of word and image, through that connective tension, the unexpected and new emerges.

Groups seem to go more in depth about their ideas and feelings when they attach their thoughts to a symbol or picture. Because participants share about a card rather than directly about themselves they are often more willing to share. Often more reserved members are drawn to expressing themselves through the use of these symbols.