Ian Parkin is the author of this post.

How To Start Reading Tarot So You Can Find Guidance In The Cards

If you are curious about how to start reading tarot cards, you're in the right place! Tarot reading can be a wonderful tool for meditation, reflection, and exploring various aspects of life, such as relationships, career, and personal challenges. Whether you're seeking insight into your future or simply looking for a new way to connect with your inner self, learning the basics of tarot card reading can be an exciting and rewarding journey. 

To begin your tarot journey, you'll need a tarot deck that resonates with you.

There are countless designs and themes available, so take your time to find one that speaks to your intuition and aesthetic preferences. I personally recommend you start with the Rider-Waite-Smith deck because most other modern decks are based on this set in one way or another. That means you will find it easier with all the other decks as you progress. But don't be afraid to explore more unique options if you feel drawn. Once you've selected your deck, spend some time getting acquainted with the cards. Look at each card, notice the imagery, colors, and symbols, and see how they make you feel.

Understand The Structure Of A Tarot Deck

A standard tarot deck consists of 78 cards divided into two main sections: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana contains 22 cards that represent significant life events and spiritual lessons. Each card, like The Fool, The Magician, or The World, tells a story and offers profound insights. The Minor Arcana, on the other hand, consists of 56 cards divided into four suits: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles. These cards deal with day-to-day events and situations, with each suit representing different aspects of life (Wands for creativity, Cups for emotions, Swords for intellect, and Pentacles for material concerns). 

How To Start Reading Tarot Meanings For Each Of The Cards

One of the best ways to learn tarot is to study the meanings of the cards. Start with the Major Arcana, as these cards are often more straightforward and impactful. Each card has both upright and reversed meanings, adding depth to your readings. For example, The Lovers card upright might indicate harmony and partnership, while reversed it could suggest conflict or imbalance. There are many excellent books and online resources that provide detailed meanings for each of the cards in a tarot deck. But don't get bogged down by memorizing every intricate detail; instead, you will want the cards to speak to you on a deeper level. Trust your instincts and let the imagery and symbolism guide you toward personal insights and revelations. Additionally, keeping a tarot journal where you write down your interpretations and observations can be incredibly helpful.

Connecting With Your Intuition

Tarot reading is as much about intuition as it is about knowledge. When you draw a card, take a moment to breathe deeply and tune into your inner voice. What feelings or thoughts come up when you see the card? How does it relate to the question you're asking? Trusting your intuition can bring a deeper, more personal meaning to your readings. Don’t worry if it feels challenging at first - like any skill, it gets easier with practice.

To truly master the art of tarot reading, it's essential to establish a regular practice. Set aside dedicated time each day or week to shuffle the cards, draw them, and reflect on their messages. Start with simple one-card or three-card readings, gradually building up to more complex spreads as your confidence grows.

Practicing Basic Spreads

A spread is the layout of the cards during a reading, and different spreads can offer different insights. The three-card spread is a great starting point, covering the past, present, and future or mind, body, and spirit. As you gain confidence, you can explore more complex spreads like the Celtic Cross, which provides a comprehensive overview of a situation. (Find eight tarot card layouts here)

Finding Guidance And Community

Starting your tarot journey can feel overwhelming, but remember, you don't have to do it alone. There are many resources and communities available to support you. Consider joining a local or online tarot group where you can share experiences, ask questions, and learn from others. Watching video tutorials, attending workshops, or even getting a reading from an experienced tarot reader can also provide valuable insights and encouragement.