What Are Tarot Cards and How Do They Work?

Let's have a little discussion about what tarot cards are, and how tarot cards work.

They've been around for a LONG time. Tarot cards have been used as common playing cards for games in Europe since the 15th century. They are divided into the Major Arcana and Minor Arcana. They represent different types of people, events, and experiences.

Tarot Cards are an excellent way to tap into your inner wisdom and get guidance on life's decisions. They can also help you to manifest your desires, become more aware of your life, and reveal hidden issues. You can Tarot Cards for simple reading, as a journaling tool, or even as a therapy resource.

A deck consists of 78 cards in number, each individual card numbered with its symbolic image. Tarot cards are also used to create spreads designed to speak to a specific situation or your life path.

The Major Arcana tell a story of your life. 

They represent life's karmic lessons. And these cards can be combined to create thousands of unique narratives. Narratives you can use to guide yourself through life's many roads.

For example, the Fool is a Major card representing a fresh start. The Fool represents new beginnings, childlike wonder, and staying in the present.

This card is also the protagonist in a Major spread. Every card after it represents the different parts of the Fool's life.

Or there is the Magician.... which represents the ability to turn dreams into reality. This card also symbolizes a man with hands in the air. The Magician is also a symbol of manifestation, and he helps to create the world we live in.

Other well-known Major cards are the hanged man and the wheel of fortune.

Of the 78 tarot cards that come in a deck, the 56 cards of the minor arcana, represent the trials and tribulations of life. 

These cards are not to be ridged in their interpretation but to help you tap into your intuition. Each minor suit includes 14 cards ... 10 numbered cards, and 4 Court Cards (Page Knight, Queen King, and Knight).

Tarot Cards have a rich history and can be found in many different formats. The Rider-Waite deck is the most common, but there are others you can use. Whether you use new cards or ones you've had for years, finding a deck with symbolism that you can understand is essential.

The tarot cards meanings depend on many things, but we will get into those meanings in more in-depth articles. But over time, you'll discover your own way to read using the cards as a tool.

How Can I Use a Tarot Deck?

Using Tarot cards is a great way to get quick guidance. These cards are excellent for clearing your mind and connecting to the universe. They can also help you heal from the past and are a great way to plan for the future.

The first step to using is to select cards that work for you. A traditional tarot deck has 22 major arcana and 56 minor. It also helps if you look for cards that are vibrational to you. That means you feel the energy on the cards. This will yield the best results.

When selecting your cards, you should pay attention to the artwork, the colors, and the pattern. Look for parallels between the card and your own life. This will help you to connect to the card and its message.

There are many types of tarot spreads, and it can become complicated. But here are the basics.

The first step is to shuffle. Each card has its unique symbolism. When you pick your cards, you will get an image of a scene or event. Each card has a specific meaning depending on the orientation.

After shuffling, you can start a 3-card pull. Each of these three cards represents the past, the present, and the future.

Take time to think about what each card means. For instance, if you are reading for a friend, you will want to choose a positive card for them.

You can also use your selected cards for divination or to get a new perspective on a problem, connect with your higher self, and learn to better trust your intuition. If you don't like the idea of doing this yourself, you can always seek the help of a professional psychic.

Learning this three-card spread is a great way to start as a beginner. You can use it to answer simple questions or get a feel for the day. (don't forget to keep track of your readings and study them so you can get better and better)

How To Read Tarot Cards

After you've learned the meaning of each card you can begin.

The first step is to clear your thoughts.... have an open mind... and follow your intuition. You will also have to develop a deep understanding of the cards to draw from them in your reading.

Draw your cards and use your intuition to interpret the results. I suggest to do this in the morning and journal about your results. At the end of the day do the same and breakdown how good yoru reading was. Was there anything you could improve? or some feeling you misinterpreted?

Beginner Tarot Spread

A spread consists of three cards to five cards. Less cards contain a lot of information without being too overwhelming. Using more cards in the spread can produce a more in-depth reading.

Set up a table for your Tarot reading. Be sure to clear it and make it a "sacrid place" for the reading.

Before you begin, focus on the energy of the cards and the question you are asking. You can also write down your questions and keep them with your tarot.

Now shuffle the cards first. This can be done by fanning them or by releasing them in sections.

To draw a three card tarot spread, you will need a tarot deck and a spread layout that specifies the positions for three cards.

Begin by shuffling your tarot deck and focusing on your question or intention for the reading. Lay out your spread by placing the first card in the designated position for the first card, the second card in the position for the second card, and the third card in the position for the third card.

Take a moment to examine each card and consider how it relates to your question or intention.
Read the cards in the order that they appear in the spread, considering the relationships and connections between them.

Here is an example of a three card tarot spread that you can use:

Card 1: The present or current situation
Card 2: The challenges or obstacles
Card 3: The outcome or potential resolution

You can also create your own spread by assigning specific positions or meanings to each card in the spread. The most important thing is to have a clear intention and to be open to the messages and insights that the tarot cards have for you.

Pro tip: It can be simple to start. You can try drawing one card a day to learn how to read them too!

You should clear the cards after each reading. You can burn smoke or use a smudge stick to cleanse them.

What's the difference between the Major Arcana and Minor Arcana?

It's important to understand the differences between the Major and the Minor. Both are powerful tools for divination and intuition, but each holds a different meaning and can be interpreted in various ways.

22 cards of the Major Arcana represent major life events.

The first card in this pack is the Fool. The fool represents the beginning of a journey. This card reveals new starts, childlike wonder, and the ability to learn from others.

The last card in the Major Arcana is Death.  Death symbolizes the end of something. For example, it represents the death of a bad habit or the end of a loveless relationship. It also signifies the end of ill will and self-pity.

The 56 Minor Arcana cards are divided into four suits. Each suit represents four different energy types. These suits represent earth, water, fire, and air. The suits are ordered from Ace to Ten.

The suits in the Minor Arcana are the swords, wands, cups, and pentacles.

How do to choose the best Tarot Card Deck for you?

Because there are many types of tarot cards, choosing a pack of cards perfect for you can be a daunting task. But luckily, there are a few things to know that can help you choose the best tarot deck for you.

First, you should be clear about what you want from your cards. You want to compliments your spiritual path and values.

If you are looking for a starter set, the Wild Unknown Deck is a good choice. This starter kit features unique artwork and is a good deal for the price. In addition, it has a nearly 5-star rating, over 1,600 reviews, and a guidebook.

For a more sophisticated experience, consider a Rider-Waite-Smith deck. This is a good choice if you want to learn more about tarot and reading cards. You will also find a wider variety of material to study if you use these cards since so many others use them too!

You can also try independent artists. Many of these decks will have a higher quality and will be more likely to last.

You can always purchase second-hand, but be sure to check the condition of the cards. Make sure you can touch them and see how they feel to you.

There are also tarot-swapping groups on Facebook; Just do a search. You can check them out to see if any call out to you However, avoided any made of cheap materials. These are often poorly made and prone to wear and tear.

The best tarot decks are ones that are both visually and emotionally appealing. This will inspire you to use your cards more often.

And if you can't afford a deck of your own, don't worry. You can find free tarot cards and even free tarot classes online for download. While it may not seem as effective it will get you started on the right foot.

FAQs About Tarot Reading

What are tarot cards used for?

Tarot cards are a deck of cards that are used for divination and spiritual guidance. We think they originated in the 15th century in Europe. But we know they have been used for centuries as a tool for self-discovery and personal growth.

Tarot cards are used in readings to explore your present situation, your past and the influences that may have shaped it. They can also be used to consider you future and the potential outcomes of a particular path or situation.

Tarot readings provide clarity, insight, and a greater understanding into one's self and the world.

They can even be used as a form of meditation and self-care because they help you connect with your inner wisdom and to gain a deeper understanding of you thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

There are many different spreads, or layouts, that can be used in a reading, and the specific spread that is used can depend on the question or topic that the person is seeking guidance on.

Can you read your own tarot cards?

Yes, you can read your own tarot cards. In fact you should. It's helpful to take the time to do your own readings because it allows you to connect with your own inner wisdom and gain a deeper understanding of your own thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

If you are new to reading tarot, try starting with a simple three-card spread. Like a  past, present, and future spread. This spread allows you to explore your current situation, the challenges or obstacles that you may be facing, and the potential outcome or resolution.

Want something easier? Some people find drawing a card each morning helpful. This can also help you improve your reading skills. And the more you understand what you're reading the better you'll do!

What are the benefits of a tarot card reading?

Getting a reading is worthwhile for those who want to learn about their personality, relationships, and future. It can also help if you make a significant change in your life.

The best way to get a tarot reading is to go to a professional. Many online psychics will help you understand your life and discover what's missing.

A reading can be an excellent way to eliminate negativity and stress. It can also help you lose unhelpful narratives and become a more open person.

A reading may also show areas in your personality that need work. And that, my friend... is a good thing.

What are tarot card suits?

Despite their similar appearance, the suits have different meanings. In the past, they were used for card games and have since been more embraced for divination purposes.

A suit is defined by its symbol and the numerology that goes along with it. For example, the cup suit is associated with water, while the wands suit is connected to fire.

The most crucial card in a tarot deck is the Tarot Card Suit of Wands. This card is the beginning of something. It is also a symbol of passion. A person with a Wands card could expect great success through hard work. It is also a sign of advancement in the early stages of a project.

The next most important card is the Suit of Cups which represents relationships, friendships, and emotions. It also may represent tears, water, and oceans.

What are tarot card pentacles?

Traditionally, the these tarot cards represent work, money, and home. However, they are also often associated with health, wealth, and professional situations.

The Four indicates a stable position in your career. It also reflects a desire to preserve your fortune. It can also show fear of loss, debt, or credit. You may be reluctant to share your ideas or be a bit possessive of your clients.

The Ten indicates a time when your life has reached a crossroads. This can be the start of a new relationship or the end of a period of scrappy living. It can also be when you need to plan for the future.

The Page of Pentacles is often associated with the element Earth. Therefore, it is an excellent omen for a career Tarot reading.

This my friend, is a work in progress. I will be adding much more so keep checking back!