What Are Tarot Cards?
Tarot cards are a type of card deck based off of traditional playing cards and symbolic imagery. Tarot cards are usually used for divination or spiritual practices, though some people also use them for game playing. A typical pack of Tarot cards contains 78 cards divided into four suits of 14 cards, each of which corresponds with a specific meaning or message. The Tarot deck features Major Arcana cards, which possess significant spiritual power, and Minor Arcana cards, which are less powerful and symbolize everyday life.
Creating a Sanctuary Space
Before you begin to use your new Tarot cards, it is important to create a dedicated space in which to practice your readings. This space should be free from distractions and filled with objects that represent your intention, such as candles and crystals. Set aside some time each day to practice your readings in this space, even if it is only for a few minutes. This will help you to establish a connection with your Tarot cards, as well as to build a stronger relationship with the divine.
Cleansing Your Tarot Deck
Once you have created a space for yourself and your Tarot cards, it is important to cleanse your cards. Cleansing is a process of releasing any negative or stagnant energy from your cards. There are several ways to do this, including burying your cards in the ground, smudging them with sage, using your breath, or dipping them in salt water. After cleansing your cards, it is important to dedicate them to their purpose of providing spiritual guidance and insight.
Bonding with Your Tarot Cards
After you have cleansed your cards, it is time to start bonding with them. This can be done in a variety of ways, including spending time with your cards, meditating or visualizing with them, or writing about them in a journal. It can also be helpful to give your cards names, or to assign symbols or colors to each one as a way of better understanding them.
Working with Tarot Card Spreads
Once you have established a connection with your Tarot cards, it is time to begin working with them. Tarot card spreads are commonly used to answer questions about the past, present, and future, or to provide insight into various aspects of a particular situation. There are many different types of card spreads available, depending on your particular needs and preferences.
Learning the Meaning of Tarot Cards
In order to interpret Tarot card spreads effectively, it is important to understand the meaning of each card. This can be done through research, observation, and practice. When identifying the meanings of the cards, it is important to keep in mind the context and perspective of the reading. This will help you to interpret the cards accurately and to more deeply connect with their energy.
Tarot Card Reading Etiquette
When giving readings to others, it is important to maintain a level of respect and professionalism. Begin the reading by introducing yourself and stating the purpose of the session. Discuss the potential benefits of the reading with the person beforehand and never make predictions about the future without their explicit permission. Finally, formulating the question for the reading carefully and provide the person with a brief explanation about the interpretation of the cards.
Exploring the Power of Tarot Cards
Getting to know your Tarot cards and learning to interpret their meaning is a lifelong process. As you learn to connect with your cards, they will reveal more and more insight into yourself and your path in life. Exploring the power of Tarot cards can be a transformational and rewarding journey, so take the time to welcome your new deck and begin to unlock the mysteries of its ancient symbols.
What materials are essential for cleansing and bonding with your tarot cards?
For cleansing and bonding with your tarot cards, it’s recommended to use cleansing tools such as incense, candles, sage, and rosemary, along with items to imbue the cards with such as crystals, essential oils, and herbs. Saltwater or a salt and water mixture can also be used to cleanse the cards. Finally, a special chalice of water and a white or light candle should be used to bless the deck. Once all of these materials are gathered, the tarot cards can be placed on the altar with intention, and the cleansing and bonding process can begin.
What rituals are used for cleansing tarot cards?
1. Smudging: A widely used ritual in which the tarot cards are passed through the smoke of Palo Santo, sage, and cedar to cleanse and signify new beginnings.
2. Setting an Intention: To set an intention, the tarot reader should focus on their reason for reading the tarot, focusing on what outcome they wish to have.
3. Visualization/Meditation: After setting your intention, visualize cleaning and clearing your deck, holding it in your hands and radiating pure white light throughout the deck to cleanse and energize it.
4. Sprinkling Salts: Sprinkling salt around the tarot deck serves to purify it.
5. Playing Outside: Taking the tarot deck out of its protective box and laying the cards on the ground in the light of the moon serves to clear the energy of the cards.
6. Cleansing Crystals: Cleansing crystals such as amethyst, selenite, and black tourmaline can also be used to cleanse tarot cards of energy before and after a reading.