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How to Use Tarot Cards for Beginners!

by Zoe James on Sep 12, 2024

Tarot cards can be a beautiful tool to help guide your daily decision making. But, if you’ve never used tarot cards before, you may be wondering where to begin!

Keep reading for our user-friendly guide on how to use tarot cards, and our top tips for making the most out of your reading.

What are Tarot Cards?

First things first - what are tarot cards, and where exactly do they come from?

Tarot cards date back to the 14th or 15th century, although it’s believed they may have originally been played as a card game. These days, tarot cards - otherwise known as oracle cards - are more commonly used for spiritual readings, and a way to make deeper connections with your intuition.

A deck of tarot cards typically includes between 44 - 78 cards, and most decks also come with a guidebook to help you interpret the meaning behind each card. Each tarot card has its own unique imagery and symbolism. Many people use tarot cards to guide them with making decisions, and to provide answers to their questions.

How to use Tarot Cards

There are several ways to use tarot cards, and really, there’s no “right or wrong” method. You may want to experiment with a few different methods before finding a ritual that you connect with.

A beginner-friendly method of using tarot cards is as follows:

  • Set the mood. Find a quiet, relaxing space that you feel comfortable in. You may want to light some candles, diffuse your favourite essential oils, surround yourself with crystals, play calming music or meditate for a few minutes beforehand.

  • Set your intentions. Think about the guidance you’re hoping to receive from your tarot cards. Ideally, this should take the form of an open-ended question. For example:
      • What direction should I be taking with my career/relationship/family?
      • What do I need to focus on right now to be happiest?
      • What does my immediate future hold?
  • Shuffle the cards. Continue thinking about your question while doing so.

  • Pick a card or cards. There are a few different methods you can use to do this:
        • Pick a card from the top of the deck after shuffling.
        • Divide the deck into three piles and pick a card from the top of each deck.
        • Spread your cards into a semi-circle, sweep your hand over them and pull a card that resonates with you.
        • Or, simply continue shuffling and see which cards jump out of the pile!
  • Decipher the meaning. Once you’ve pulled a card (or cards), use your tarot deck guidebook to decipher the meaning and symbolism behind it. 

  • Remember, there are no set rules when using tarot cards. You can use your deck of tarot cards in whatever way feels right for you! The more you use your cards, the more you’ll become familiar with their meanings - and the easier it will be to use them as a spiritual tool for guidance, support and encouragement.

    Ready to get started? We have a beautiful range of tarot cards and oracle cards online right here at Inspire Me Naturally.