The line of Life starts about halfway between the thumb and forefinger, then curves around the area of the thumb, ending normally at or near the base of the thumb where it is joined to the wrist. It indicates the vitality and energy that a person can expend throughout a lifetime. The greater the curve of the line, the more activity is to be ejected, especially when the line is unbroken. Unusual physical strength accompanies this curve.

If the line begins high, close to the forefinger, it indicates a person governed by a great ambition, one not easily deterred by disappointments or frustrations.

Joined to the head line, it shows normal, constructive planning moderated by a fair amount of caution.

When the life and head lines are slightly separated, it is a sign of a highly energetic nature, excellent for any niche in life.

A wide separation, however, means impulsiveness, a tendency to make hasty, even unwise decisions.

Ascending branches that spring from the life line and terminate under the first finger show a desire for wealth and power.

Branches that drop down inside the line, toward the thumb, reveal a desire for, or an absolute craving for, love and affection.

A life line that swings over toward the far side of the palm instead of circling the base of the thumb, around the area of Venus, partakes of the imaginative, adventurous aspects of Luna. This requires interests that mean constant change, travel, different surroundings, even occupations that may vary from time to time.

A short line does not indicate a short life, as the old traditional interpretation was given. A short line may be a change of surroundings, occupation, or just a lessening of physical reserve at that particular time. Usually this is temporary. Other lines in the palm act as a booster to the short life line. The fate line often continues where the life line stops, and many a busy, active, and successful career materializes through some inevitable change, marked one way or another on the fate line.

Life and head lines joined for some distance at the beginning should be studied carefully—by parents—because there may be timidity or shyness during these early years of childhood. Children having this line formation need extra encouragement.

Chained formations or broken effects warn of physical weakness. At the beginning of the line, any of the early childhood ailment are to be expected.

Double lines, either complete or partial, are tremendous strengtheners, adding great vitality to an already strong physique.

Triple lines can be good or bad, deeding upon the mentality of the person. Great talent and passion, or the reverse, lust and deceit.