Tarot is a form of divination used by psychics, healers, astrologers and other occultists for both self-knowledge and life improvements. Additionally, new seekers often turn to it for guidance.
Online decks provide an easier option for beginners as their cards feature printed card meanings.
Choosing a deck
As you embark on your tarot journey, choosing the appropriate deck of cards can be instrumental in forging an intuitive bond with yourself and readings will feel more connected and clear. While this may not be easy, here are a few helpful hints on selecting one for yourself.
Begin your search for an appealing deck visually. After all, you’ll be spending much of your time looking at these cards – you don’t want to spend it staring at something unattractive!
Another thing to keep in mind when selecting a deck’s theme is its creator’s history and possible spiritual ties to those symbols, in order to avoid issues like cultural appropriation – something all members of the tarot community should remain wary of.
Getting started with tarot
As with anything, starting Tarot should start by following your intuition. When you feel an intense interest and curiosity for it, use your cards. Keep a journal detailing your experiences so that you can build up confidence while trusting in yourself and trusting in your intuition.
Tarot readers employ various techniques to interpret and read tarot cards. This may include “spreads,” which involve arranging cards into patterns that address specific queries. Spreads may be traditional or creative depending on both reader and deck.
Beginning tarot readers need to learn the art of crafting effective questions. An insightful question can provide clarity and insight about any issue in your love life, work life or family drama. Also take into consideration how each card might apply to past, present, or future circumstances – this process known as synchronicity can help ensure the cards speak directly to you.
Reading tarot cards
Learning Tarot requires both intuition and familiarity with its symbols and meanings of each card, practice and developing an intimate relationship with them. A journal or log can also help keep track of all your readings to remember your experiences better and gain confidence in your interpretations.
At first, when beginning with tarot cards, start by using a classic deck like the Rider-Waite deck. Most people associate the Rider-Waite with tarot, providing an abundance of visual language for understanding each card. As you become more comfortable with reading these images, experiment with other types of decks until you understand their symbols better.
Learn the meanings and interpretations of each card by learning their position within a spread. For instance, an upright card might signify traditional interpretation, while reversed cards can represent more unconventional ones.
Getting a tarot reading
Hiring a professional reader is an effective way to extract answers and guidance from the cards, but before booking one it’s essential that you clarify their fee and payment process as well as exactly what questions you wish to pose to the cards – do you want yes/no answers and include questions which are meaningful to you.
If you are new to tarot, using a guidebook or other resources can help you interpret the meanings of each card. But keep in mind that traditional interpretations may only tell part of the tale: what your intuition and emotions tell you may also play a part.
When it’s time for your reading, take some time to focus on your question and shuffle the cards. Don’t neglect reversals either – they may offer just as valuable insights! Just be careful that they don’t overshadow or overwhelm your interpretations!