How to Use Tarot Cards: A Beginner's Guide

Tarot cards have been used for centuries as a tool for self-reflection, spiritual insight, and personal growth. Whether you’re new to tarot or looking to deepen your practice, here’s a simple guide to get you started on your tarot journey.

1. Choosing Your Tarot Deck

Your tarot deck is a personal tool, so choose one that resonates with you. There are many types of tarot decks available, with varying themes and artwork. The Rider-Waite deck is a popular option for beginners due to its straightforward symbolism, but feel free to explore other designs that speak to your intuition.

2. Understanding the Structure of a Tarot Deck

A standard tarot deck consists of 78 cards, divided into two sections:

• The Major Arcana (22 cards): These cards represent major life events, transformations, or themes. Cards like The Fool, The Magician, and The World are part of the Major Arcana and often symbolize significant spiritual lessons or life shifts.
• The Minor Arcana (56 cards): These cards represent daily events, challenges, and situations. They are divided into four suits: Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands, each with its unique meaning and energy.

3. Cleansing Your Tarot Deck

Before using your tarot cards, it’s a good idea to cleanse them of any residual energy. You can do this by:

• Passing the cards through smoke from incense or sage.
• Meditating with the deck, focusing on positive energy.
• Leaving them under the light of a full moon to recharge.

4. Setting Your Intentions

Before a reading, center yourself by taking a few deep breaths. Think about the question or situation you want guidance on and focus your energy on that intention. This helps you connect more deeply with the cards.

5. Shuffling and Drawing Cards

Once you’ve set your intention, shuffle the deck in a way that feels natural to you. While shuffling, focus on your question. When you feel ready, you can draw cards. Many readers pull one card for a quick answer, but you can also use various spreads to gain deeper insights.

6. Basic Tarot Spreads

Here are a few simple tarot spreads for beginners:

• One-Card Pull: Draw one card to gain a quick, straightforward answer to a question or focus for the day.
• Three-Card Spread: A popular spread to gain more insight into a situation. The three cards represent:
  1. Past: What has led to the current situation?
  2. Present: What is happening now?
  3. Future: What is likely to happen next?

7. Interpreting the Cards

Each tarot card carries symbolism that can provide insight into your question. The key is to trust your intuition when interpreting the cards. While you can reference tarot guides for meanings, it’s important to reflect on how the card’s imagery and energy feel to you in the context of your situation.

• Major Arcana cards typically point to overarching themes or life lessons.
• Minor Arcana cards often refer to day-to-day matters, emotions, or decisions.

8. Journaling Your Tarot Readings

Writing down your readings can help you track patterns, insights, and progress over time. Make note of the cards drawn, your question, and the meanings or messages you receive. Tarot journaling allows for deeper reflection and helps improve your intuition.

9. Using Tarot for Self-Reflection

Tarot isn’t just for predicting the future; it’s a tool for self-discovery. Regular tarot practice can help you gain insight into your thoughts, feelings, and actions, allowing for personal growth and spiritual development.

10. Closing the Reading

After your reading, thank the cards for their guidance and take a moment to reflect on the insights you received. Some readers like to store their deck in a special cloth or box to protect its energy between uses.

Ready to start your tarot journey? Explore our Tarot Collection and find the perfect deck to guide your way.