Tarot Basics

A Guide for Beginners – How to start reading tarot.

Tarot reading is a powerful tool for self-discovery, guidance, and insight. Whether you’re drawn to the tarot for personal reflection or spiritual growth, getting started with tarot can seem both exciting and overwhelming. This guide aims to demystify the process and offer practical steps for beginners to start reading tarot with confidence.

Understanding the Tarot Deck

A standard tarot deck consists of 78 cards divided into two main sections: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana.

• Major Arcana: There are 22 Major Arcana cards, each representing significant life events or spiritual lessons. These cards include well-known figures like The Fool, The Magician, and The High Priestess. Major Arcana cards often indicate major influences or themes in a reading.
• Minor Arcana: The Minor Arcana is composed of 56 cards divided into four suits: Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands. Each suit contains 14 cards, including Ace through Ten and four court cards (Page, Knight, Queen, and King). These cards focus on everyday situations and more specific aspects of life.

Choosing Your Deck

Selecting a tarot deck that resonates with you is a personal choice. Decks come in various themes, artistic styles, and cultural influences. Spend time exploring different decks to find one that aligns with your intuition and aesthetic preferences. Remember, your connection to the deck will enhance your readings and help you interpret the cards more effectively.

Learning the Card Meanings

Begin by familiarizing yourself with the basic meanings of each card. Start with the Major Arcana to understand the overarching themes and lessons. Then, move on to the Minor Arcana, focusing on the meanings of each suit and its corresponding cards. Many resources, including books and online guides, offer detailed explanations and interpretations for each card.

Developing Your Intuition

While understanding the traditional meanings of the cards is essential, developing your intuition is equally important. Pay attention to the images, symbols, and emotions that arise as you work with the cards. Trust your instincts and personal impressions, as they can provide additional layers of insight beyond the standard interpretations.

Starting with Simple Spreads

Begin your tarot practice with simple spreads to build your confidence and understanding. The one-card draw is a great starting point for daily guidance or reflection. As you become more comfortable, you can experiment with basic spreads like the three-card spread, which can represent past, present, and future, or a situation, action, and outcome.

Interpreting the Cards

When interpreting the cards, consider both their individual meanings and their relationships to one another in the spread. Look for patterns, connections, and themes that emerge. Reflect on how the cards’ imagery and symbolism relate to the question or situation at hand. Keep a journal of your readings to track patterns and insights over time.

Practice Regularly

Consistency is key to developing your tarot skills. Set aside regular time for practice, whether it’s daily, weekly, or whenever you feel guided. The more you work with the cards, the more confident and skilled you’ll become. Experiment with different spreads, questions, and interpretations to deepen your understanding and connection with the tarot.

Respecting the Tarot

Approach the tarot with respect and an open mind. Treat the deck as a sacred tool for insight and guidance. Remember that the tarot is a reflection of your inner world and external influences, and it should be used ethically and responsibly.

Continued Learning

Tarot is a lifelong journey of learning and self-discovery. Continue to explore books, courses, and communities to expand your knowledge and refine your skills. Engage with other tarot enthusiasts to share experiences and insights, and remain open to evolving your practice as you grow.

In summary, starting with tarot involves understanding the structure and meanings of the cards, developing your intuition, and practicing regularly. By approaching the tarot with curiosity and respect, you can unlock its potential for personal growth, guidance, and spiritual insight.