How to Pick Tarot Cards: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

If you’ve ever been intrigued by the mystical art of tarot reading, you may have found yourself faced with a perplexing question: how do you pick the right tarot cards for a reading? With so many different decks and individual cards to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of selecting tarot cards that are aligned with your energy and intentions. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned tarot practitioner, these tips and tricks will help you make thoughtful and informed choices.

Understand the Basics of Tarot Decks

Before diving into the process of picking tarot cards, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the basics of tarot decks. A standard tarot deck consists of 78 cards, divided into two main groups: the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana.

The Major Arcana comprises 22 cards, each representing significant life lessons, archetypal energies, and spiritual growth. These cards usually depict figures such as The Fool, The Magician, and The Hermit, each with its own symbolic meaning.

The Minor Arcana consists of 56 cards divided into four suits: Cups, Wands, Swords, and Pentacles. Each suit represents a particular element and domain of life. Cups correspond to emotions and relationships, Wands symbolize creativity and passion, Swords represent intellect and challenges, while Pentacles embody material aspects and abundance.

Keep in mind that there are countless variations of tarot decks, each with its unique artwork and interpretations. While the core meanings of the cards remain consistent across different decks, some decks may resonate more strongly with you than others.

Clarify Your Tarot Reading Intention

Prior to picking tarot cards, it’s crucial to clarify your intention for the reading. Are you seeking guidance on a specific issue or wanting a general overview of your life? Identifying your purpose will help you select cards that align with your desired outcome.

Take a few moments to sit quietly, close your eyes, and reflect on your intention. Visualize the energy you wish to invite into the reading. Are you seeking clarity, healing, or empowerment? By setting a clear intention, you’ll be better equipped to pick cards that resonate with your goal.

Connect with the Energy of the Tarot Decks

Once you have a clear intention in mind, it’s time to connect with the energy of the tarot decks available to you. If you own multiple decks or have access to various options, take some time to hold each deck in your hands, allowing yourself to tune into the vibes and energy emanating from them.

Pay attention to how each deck feels in your hands. Do you notice any sensations or reactions within your body as you handle the cards? Trust your intuition in this process. Often, our instincts guide us towards the decks that are most attuned to our energy and intentions.

If you’re in a physical store or have the opportunity to see the cards in person, take advantage of this. Browse through the decks, flip through a few cards, and take note of any immediate connections or reactions you have. Sometimes a particular deck will catch your eye or evoke a strong emotional response, indicating a resonance that may be worth exploring further.

Explore Tarot Deck Themes and Artwork

Tarot decks come in a myriad of themes and artistic styles. From traditional Rider-Waite imagery to modern and ethereal designs, there’s a deck out there for every aesthetic preference and spiritual inclination. Consider the theme and artwork of each deck as you make your selection.

If you’re drawn to a specific spiritual tradition or resonate with certain symbols, seek out decks that align with those interests. For example, if you’re interested in Celtic spirituality, you may find a deck that incorporates Celtic imagery and mythology particularly captivating.

Additionally, pay attention to the overall vibe and mood evoked by the artwork. Some decks have a lighter, more playful energy, while others exude a sense of mystery or depth. Choose a deck whose visuals and symbolism resonate with you on a personal level.

Seek Recommendations and Read Reviews

If you’re unsure where to start or find it challenging to make a decision, seek recommendations from fellow tarot enthusiasts or trusted sources. Online tarot communities and forums can offer invaluable insights and suggestions based on personal experiences.

Reading reviews of different tarot decks can also provide helpful guidance. Look for feedback that aligns with your own intentions and preferences. Keep in mind that what works well for one person may not necessarily work for another, so take the reviews as a reference rather than a definitive answer.

Listen to Your Intuition

Ultimately, when picking tarot cards, trust your intuition above any external opinions or recommendations. You are the one who will establish a deep connection with your chosen deck, and it’s essential that you feel a sense of alignment and resonance.

If a particular deck keeps calling out to you, even if it’s not the most popular or commonly recommended one, honor that intuitive pull. Tarot reading is an intuitive practice, and allowing your intuition to guide your card selection is an important part of the process.

Conclusion

Picking tarot cards can be an exciting and transformative experience. By understanding the basics of tarot decks, clarifying your intention, connecting with deck energy, exploring different themes, seeking recommendations, and listening to your intuition, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect deck for your readings.

Remember that the beauty of tarot lies in the personal connection and insight it offers. There’s no right or wrong when it comes to choosing tarot cards – it’s all about finding what resonates with you and trusting your own inner wisdom. Happy card picking and may your tarot journey be filled with guidance and enlightenment!