I was first introduced to Tarot when I was only 14. I felt like I was being drawn to something secret and protected, like understanding Tarot would help me understand life. At the time I was going through a tough time and as a child, I was always drawn to the spiritual and esoteric. I quickly learned, however, there is a lot of fear and unknown around Tarot. Immediately, you get images of witches and gypsies telling your future and letting you know your fate, as if something else is in control of your destiny.
That is why there is so much fear around Tarot. It can feel like it is tapping into something that should not be explored. But I’m here to tell you my version of working with Tarot cards. And please, only take this with a grain of salt. I have always wholeheartedly believed we are all in charge of our own destinies, and it is important you trust in your own path, not what someone else is telling you.
HOW TAROT CAN BE NEGATIVE
I’m going to get this bit out the way first because I have learned both the good and bad aspects of working with Tarot cards. It is important that you, as the reader, should be informed in the most honest way possible. Again this is just my journey so just take what feels right and leave the rest at the door. The time I first really started working with Tarot Cards was in my early 20s. I had just left University, I felt lost, anxious, and afraid of the future. I ended up working in a very negative environment and honestly felt like I was just treading water; surviving but certainly not thriving. I became deeply depressed and anxious.
It was not an easy time, and I thought it might help to go back to Tarot and try and figure out how to get back to some sort of peace. At the time I only knew what I read. I hadn’t yet completely worked on my intuition, so when I was reading the cards I was reading them as a way to predict my future. Each and every time I worked with the cards, it always came up as negative. I could feel my heart sink and tried desperately to seek answers. This was one of my biggest and hardest lessons to learn. Tarot is actually a reflection of the human soul and psyche. The imagery enhances your own innate intuition but also focuses on where you are currently as opposed to your future.
So, of course, when I was reading the cards from a negative frame of mind, I was reading the place I was in. I could only see the negative, never the positive. From that lesson, I took a massive step back and focused on practical steps towards healing. So when you’re feeling down and just want answers about the future, and when or if it will ever get better, please, look for other options. Of course, a professional reader may be able to help you get some perspective and enable you to see those difficult lessons from a different point of view. But only seek someone that you resonate with.
WHAT IS TAROT
It is not completely clear where Tarot originated from but it was believed to be in the late 14th or 15th Century in Italy. It was actually believed to first originate as a game as opposed to an oracle. But then it became clear the imagery used may have actually originated from ancient times, connected to the god called Thoth. The cards are made up of 78 images, each with its own symbolism and story.
There are 22 Major Arcanas that represent major life changes, lessons and spiritual knowledge along with 56 Minor Arcanas which can reflect the daily ups and downs of life. For me personally, Tarot can provide a different perspective, helping you see life and the lessons that come with it from a higher view point. We all have to face ups and downs in life, causing us to feel lost and alone but the human soul is what guides us. Used with care, Tarot can help you navigate life, understand those spiritual lessons and how to best work through them.
HOW TO READ TAROT
Having a guidebook can, of course, help, but the most powerful way to read Tarot is through your own intuition. This is because the book can give you the universal message but because of your unique energy the messages behind the cards will be unique to you. The images can be a link to your intuition and a good lesson to start a Tarot journal. Each day or even once a week write down in your journal, “what guidance is being given to me today?” Then randomly pick your card any way you want. I usually shuffle mine and if one falls out I use that card or I just cut the deck randomly and pick a card. Then write down the card that you have.
Take a few moments to notice the imagery. What feelings or emotions does it bring up in you? Do you feel excited? Happy? Sad? Angry? Take a moment to drop down into your heart center by sending your breathe there. Look deeper at the card and write down anything that comes to your mind. What does it mean to you? Take some time on this exercise and try not to rush. Once you have written down everything that came up for you, then read the meanings in the guidebook. You might be surprised how similar your intuition and the meanings in the book are.
WHY TAROT CAN BE MORE POWERFUL FOR THE PRESENT
When I am giving my clients a reading, I usually use the Celtic Cross Spread which covers all aspects of the human journey, from current situation to karmic lessons and actions to take. In the Celtic Cross, the last card is known as the future card. But my personal feelings on this is that I have no control over your future or can read your future. Personally, I wouldn’t want to be given that information. For me, the future card is more about what you need to focus on to manifest your dreams. The readings I do are based on your current situation.
For instance, you’re going through a major transition or change, it can feel like you’re struggling with everything and don’t feel clear yet about what you want. You just know you’re ready for change. A reading may be able to help you see what is blocking you or give more clarity on what next steps to take. For me, that is more powerful than telling you what is going to happen in six or twelve months because you’re taking control of your life. I want readings to empower more than anything, not to prove how psychic I am. So try reading for yourself but take your time, don’t force it and just allow your intuition to naturally guide you to where you want to be.
