How To Get Started On A New Tarot Deck
You've got your new tarot deck in hand, but where do you start?
This guide is here to help you navigate the initial steps of your tarot journey. We'll cover everything from understanding the basics of tarot to connecting with your new deck.
You'll learn about cleansing and consecrating your deck, familiarizing yourself with the cards, and even conducting your first tarot spreads.
Whether you're a complete beginner or have some familiarity with tarot, this guide will provide valuable insights and practical tips.
So, let's dive in and explore how to get started on a new tarot deck.
Understanding the Basics of Tarot
Before diving into your new tarot deck, it's helpful to understand the basics.
Tarot has a rich history, with roots tracing back to the 15th century in Europe. Originally, tarot cards were used for games, but by the 18th century, they became a tool for divination.
A standard tarot deck consists of 78 cards, divided into two main sections:
- The Major Arcana: These are 22 cards that represent life's karmic and spiritual lessons. They include cards like The Fool, The Lovers, and Death.
- The Minor Arcana: This section contains 56 cards that reflect the trials and tribulations we experience on a daily basis.
Each card in the deck has a unique meaning and symbolism. The 78 cards represent the spectrum of human experience, from joy and love to challenges and growth.
Understanding the structure of your tarot deck is the first step in your journey. It provides a foundation for interpreting the cards and conducting readings.
Choosing and Connecting with Your Tarot Deck
Choosing your first tarot deck is an exciting step. There are countless decks available, each with its unique art style and interpretation of the tarot's symbolism.
When selecting a deck, it's important to choose one that resonates with you. Look at the imagery and see if it speaks to you. Do you feel drawn to the colors, the style, or the themes?
Feeling a connection with your deck is crucial. This connection will help you interpret the cards intuitively and accurately. It's like building a relationship; the more you understand and connect with your deck, the more insightful your readings will be.
Remember, there's no right or wrong choice. The best tarot deck for you is the one that you feel most drawn to and comfortable with.
Cleansing and Consecrating Your New Deck
Once you've chosen your tarot deck, the next step is to cleanse and consecrate it. This process is important as it helps to clear any residual energy from the deck. It also sets the intention for your future readings.
There are several methods you can use to cleanse your deck:
- Burning sage and passing your deck through the smoke
- Leaving your deck under the moonlight, especially during a full moon
- Placing a crystal such as clear quartz or selenite with your deck
Choose the method that resonates with you the most. Remember, the goal is to make your deck feel like it's truly yours, ready to guide you on your tarot journey.
Familiarizing Yourself with Your Cards
Now that your deck is cleansed and consecrated, it's time to get to know your cards. Each card in a tarot deck is rich with symbolism and imagery. Spend time with each card, studying the details of the artwork.
Don't rush this process. It's not about memorizing meanings, but about forming a personal connection with your deck. You might find that certain symbols or images stand out to you. Take note of these impressions.
Your intuition plays a crucial role in understanding tarot cards. Trust your gut feelings when you look at a card. What emotions does it evoke? What thoughts come to mind?
Remember, there are no right or wrong interpretations. Your personal connection with your cards is what makes your tarot readings unique and meaningful. So, take your time and enjoy this process of discovery.
Your First Tarot Spreads
As a beginner, it's best to start with simple tarot spreads. A popular choice is the three-card spread. This spread involves drawing three cards, each representing the past, present, and future.
When using this spread, you can ask questions like, "What do I need to let go of? What should I focus on now? What can I look forward to?" Remember, the key to effective tarot reading is asking open-ended questions. Avoid yes or no questions.
With practice, you'll get a feel for how to phrase your questions. Just remember, tarot is a tool for guidance, not predicting the future.
Tarot Reading Ethics and Practices
Tarot reading is a practice steeped in tradition and respect. It's important to approach your readings with a sense of reverence. Remember, tarot is not a game or a party trick. It's a tool for self-discovery and guidance.
Keeping a tarot journal can be a valuable part of your practice. This allows you to record your readings, reflect on their meanings, and track your progress over time. It's a great way to deepen your connection with your deck and your understanding of the cards.
Remember, tarot is a personal journey. There's no right or wrong way to read the cards. What matters most is that your practice is meaningful and respectful to you.
Daily Practice and Further Learning
Daily practice is key when starting with a new tarot deck. It's not about mastering all the card meanings right away. Instead, it's about building a relationship with your deck and developing your intuition.
One way to do this is by drawing a "card of the day" each morning. Reflect on its meaning and see how it plays out in your day. This simple practice can help you become more familiar with your cards and their messages.
There are also many resources available for further learning. Books, online courses, and tarot communities can provide valuable insights and support as you deepen your practice. Here are a few suggestions:
- "78 Degrees of Wisdom" by Rachel Pollack
- "The Tarot Bible" by Sarah Bartlett
- Biddy Tarot online courses
- Tarot communities on platforms like Reddit and Facebook
Remember, the journey of learning tarot is a marathon, not a sprint. Take your time and enjoy the process.
Caring for Your Tarot Deck
Taking care of your tarot deck is an essential part of your tarot practice. It's not just about preserving the physical condition of the cards. It's also about respecting their spiritual significance.
Store your deck in a clean, dry place when not in use. Some people prefer to wrap their deck in a silk cloth or keep it in a special box. This can help protect the cards and also create a sense of reverence for your tarot practice.
What do We Offer
We offer a variety of tarot decks that make the perfect gifts! You can buy our Adventure Time Tarot, Cat Tarot, Rider Waite Tarot Deck or Sakura Kinomoto Deck and many more!
Conclusion: Embracing the Tarot Journey
Starting a new tarot deck can be a journey of self-discovery. It's a process that requires patience, openness, and a willingness to delve into the unknown.
Remember, tarot is a tool for personal growth. Embrace the journey, and let the cards guide you towards deeper understanding and self-awareness.
