analyzing-cards

[analyzing-cards]

Just read them! Reading cards from memory

So you are ready to take off the floaties and start swimming all on your own. Sounds scary, right? I mean, it does to me because I am TERRIBLE at swimming. What I am really trying to say is that you want to stop relying on your trusty card manual, and start reading tarot cards fluently. It may seem difficult to memorize all 78 cards, but with an understanding of some of the simple patterns within tarot, and plenty of practice, all the pieces will fall into place.

Firstly, each card has specific imagery to evoke certain emotions in the reader. Watch out though, not all decks have explicit imagery. For beginners, using a deck with imagery you relate to and understand is best. The Rider-Waite deck is always highly recommended. To become acquainted with the imagery, I recommend pulling a card and writing down all the symbols, colors, and actions you see. Then write down what story you interpret the card is telling and how it makes you feel. Don't try and do every card in the deck at once, as it is better to develop this skill over time. You will find that it gets easier to identify the key elements of each card. Remember, the meaning of each card changes with context, so once you have established a baseline, try and read them in a spread.

After you become more comfortable reading cards individually, you can start looking at the way cards are connected in a spread. There are broader interpretations of each suit in tarot:

Wands are considered to be the suit of motivation, ambition, and change.

Swords represent conflict and challenge

Pentacles are tied to material possession and matters of the earth

Cups deal with our emotions and personal relationships

The names of these suits are highly suggestive of their meanings already, so they are generally easy to remember. When multiples of a suit appear in a reading, it is an indicator that the theme of the suit has a strong influence over the situation in question. For example, if there are a lot of swords in a reading, it is likely that there is a large conflict or challenge.

Finally, distinguishing between the relevance of the major arcana and the minor arcana in reading is important. Major arcana cards represent the big picture of the reading as a whole, while the minor arcana are there to give the nitty-gritty details. Pulling a major arcana card could indicate that the position that it was pulled for is the overarching theme of the reading. I feel that this concept is easy to remember. Just think major arcana = big picture, minor arcana = small picture.

These three concepts will bring you far when reading without assistance. Of course, you can always find more nuances in your readings (check out my how tarot and astrology related post), but it's best to start simple. Practice makes perfect, and remember to always follow your gut!

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Analysis: The Wheel Of Fortune

What comes around goes around, as they say. The Wheel of Fortune is the tarot embodiment of this. When the Wheel of Fortune appears in your reading, it signifies change. This change can be for better or for worse, but it is a change nonetheless. As indicated by the name, the Wheel of Fortune reminds the reader that everyone will experience the highs and lows of life. Karmic cycles are important for growth and development if one is willing to take the lessons in stride. New challenges will come your way and eventually, you will overcome these challenges and be able to celebrate your accomplishments, but there will always be more challenges on the way. This is the cyclical nature of our realities.

If the Wheel of Fortune appears in your reading right side up, it likely signifies that positive change is about to enter, or has already entered your life. Although this is a good thing, it is important not to lose sight that nobody is immune to the wheel. Remember to be considerate of those who have less than you, and don't forget to be prepared for any unexpected hiccups in your plans.

The Wheel of Fortune in reverse suggests that you have a negative or tough change that is about to enter, or already has entered your life. This is your chance to grow stronger and even learn a karmic lesson or two. Although your circumstances may be difficult, with time they will pass too. Just be sure not to miss this karmic opportunity.

[analyzing-cards]

Let's talk about spreads

Spreads. I'm sure you've heard of them, and not the kind you put on toast. I'm talking about card spreads of course! There are so many different kinds, but I want to break down the basics of what makes a spread, and give you some of the traditional spreads to work with.

A spread is a way you lay your cards out to read them. There are many different positions cards can be in, but what really matters is the meaning assigned to each card. For example, a horseshoe spread is seven cards laid in a horseshoe position, and it is read from left to right (with the first card on the left side and the seventh card on the right). The cards are formatted like this:

past influences

present situation

future influences

advice/ best course of action

attitudes of others

possible challenges

outcome

Spreads are meant to map out the purpose of each card in a reading., and put them into context. You can think of each card as a puzzle piece, and a spread as you how you put them together. The beautiful thing about spreads are that you can assign any meaning to a position in a spread, however, it's essential that you have decided what spread you are using before you lay out your cards. Otherwise, how could you know that your cards are in the right place?

Some useful traditional spreads are: the celtic cross, the three-card spread, the cross and triangle, the planetary spread, and of course, the horseshoe spread. Each spread serves its own purpose and gives you a variety of ways to interpret a situation.

Happy reading!

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Analysis: The Star

A woman kneels over a pool, one foot in the pool, and one foot on land. She is not drawing from the pool, but, with her urns, supplying water to it. Eight stars in the sky surround her. This card encourages spiritual connection and self-reflection. It is a reminder that one must be in touch with themselves to notice the divine influences the cosmos has in store. That is to say that a connection to a higher power comes from within, a genuine connection to self.

Finding the Star in the upright position may indicate divine forces at work in your life. You may have noticed unusual synchronicities in your day-to-day life. Maybe you've been unexpectedly faced with a new opportunity. If that is the case, this is your signal to follow through and trust the process. This card reminds you that no matter what you are going through, you are not alone. Although things don't always go your way, there is a greater purpose to every step of your journey.

Finding the Star in the reversed position indicates a period of distress and hopelessness. You may struggle to find meaning in your life and connect with yourself. You likely have difficulty seeing the bigger picture and feel like nothing is going "your way" recently. The Star advises us that we must take the time to look within and determine if are actions are aligned with our goals and values. it is better to put your trust in the cosmos than to not have trust at all.

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How to read your future! Sort of…

There has always been a fascination with using tarot to read “the future”, but one must be careful interpreting cards in this manner. Tarot can certainly be used to predict outcomes, but a good reader knows that no future is set in stone. That is to say, one can not read a definitive future outcome, only a possible outcome given that the other factors of the reading stay the same.

For example, you could ask the cards if you’ll get the promotion at work. You interpret from the reading that the cards advise you that you are having interpersonal issues with other coworkers, which is causing friction in the work place. The card that advises you of the “future outcome” doesn’t seem promising. You pull the five of swords, reversed. In the context of this reading, this card indicts experiencing feelings of defeat due too petty arguments and spite. One should not give up on getting their promotion due to this reading because this is just one possible outcome given that they don’t put effort into changing their issues at work. If this person worked toward having healthier work relationships and did the same reading again, they would end up with a different outcome.

Outcomes are based on the circumstances. It’s the cards way of saying, “this is probably what will happen if you continue down this path”. This is a great tool for understanding what direction you’re headed in, but it is important to make sure that whoever you are reading for understands the indefinites of their future card.

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Analysis: The Hierophant

The Hierophant is the archetype of spiritual guidance. The priest holds up his hand in blessing, the other holding a cross. Pillars on either side of him are said to represent the earthly and spiritual realms. The Hierophant is one who provides insight into matters that proceed the physical world, and he is looked to for education in his community. He may represent someone who is acting as a mentor or teacher. While the symbols on the card align with Christian tradition, they are not only representative of Christain belief. Depending on the type of reading he could be interpreted to hold different kinds of beliefs, however, they will almost always be rooted in tradition. Based on this description, the Hierophant could also represent an individual who adheres so tightly to a tradition that they are unwilling to be open-minded to new ideas. He could also be interpreted as a person who is well-educated in general. Masculine energy surrounds this card, so it likely points to a man or someone who identifies with masculinity.

The Hierophant advises the reader to assume the position of a curious student. Don't be afraid to seek guidance and acknowledge those who are in a position of superior intellect to you. You may need to gain further credentials before you are qualified for the position you want to be in.

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How do Tarot and Astrology relate?

Astrology is another valuable self-exploration tool, so naturally combining astrology and tarot is a great way to add depth to a reading. How do you go about it? Luckily, it's not complicated because tarot cards are already rooted in their own astrological signs. There are different interpretations of which cards align with different signs, but to make it simple, I will be assigning the zodiac elements to each suit.

The Cups represent Water signs:

The Cup cards are representative of our feelings and emotional drive. The water signs: Cancer, Scorpio, and Pieces, are all characterized by their empathetic, emotional nature. The signs are often sensitive, yet very intuitive. They are the dreamers, the artists, and the nurtures of the world, but they can be overly cautious and have difficulty coping with their intense emotions. When pulling a lot of cups in reading, it may indicate that the situation at hand is emotionally heavy, that emotion could be blinding you from having realistic expectations, or that their is a water sign in your life that has heavy influence on the situation.

The Swords represent Air signs:

The Sword cards are associated with the air signs: Aquarius, Libra, and Gemini. The swords represent conflict, deep truth, and ambition. The water signs are often recognized by their tendency to think deeply and seek truth. They are often to the point, yet spontaneous and care-free. Air signs often have difficulty "staying put" in all aspects of life, so they are like to seek out new challenges that promote growth and change. Unfortunately, this can cause people to perceive them as "hot and cold" in relationships, which can make it difficult for air signs to maintain those relationships. Drawing a lot of swords in a reading indicates that there is some kind of conflict in your life which may require you to move in a direction of ambitious change. It may also indicate that an air sign individual has influence over the situation in question.

The Pentacles represent Earth signs:

The Pentacle cards, sometimes called the coins, represent matters of the material world. Prosperity, value, and stability are the foundational archetypes of the pentacles. The Earth signs: Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn, are often the most grounded individuals of all the signs. They adhere to their personal beliefs and values, so much so that people can perceive them as stubborn. Earth signs value the comforts of the material world, and they take pride in the work they put in to be able to achieve those comforts. If you have a lot of Pentacles in your spread, it is likely that you have matter of the material world to attend too. This could be your investments, career, belongings, or other assets. it may also represent the gifts or wealth that you already have or are going to receive. Of course, this may be in indication that an earth sign is contributing to the situation at hand.

The Wands represent Fire signs:

The Wand cards have an energy of competition, and ambition. They often encourage the querent to "take the lead" and move forward with confidence. The Fire signs: Leo, Aries, and Sagittarius, are known to be confident, strong-willed individuals. Fire signs have intense passion and express themselves enthusiastically. They are often the leaders, trail blazers, and celebrities of the world. They can be a bit prideful at times, which can be problematic if they are using their pride too veil their vulnerabilities. When many wands are drawn during a reading, it indicates that action should be taken, or reversely that too much action is being taken and that the querent is being a bit too head strong. There may be competition involved in the situation, so you'll need to remind yourself what you're fighting for and decide if your intentions are in line with your values. Many wands my also indicate that a fire sign has influence over your situation.

Overall, tarot and astrology evolved completely independently of one another, so any correlation made between them is up for debate. However, tarot uses archetypes to symbolize the energies present in one's life, and many of these energies are aligned with the archetypal characteristics of the zodiac. If you feel that astrology resonates with you, try considering how astrology might relate too your next reading!

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Analysis: The Moon

The moon glows brightly in the night sky. The moon appears full but is creseant in its form. Both a wolf and a dog howl at the sight of it. The stream in between these dogs runs into the ocean, with white pillars appearing on either side.

The Moon is a card that deals with the subconscious, intuition, and instinct. The gravitational pull of the moon causes cyclical changes in the tides, just as the state of our subconscious mind changes with the energetic frequency of our actions. Duality resides within us all. There will always be a tame and wild version of the psyche, however, both sides succumb to instinctual impulse.

Seeing the Moon in a reading may suggest that your intuition is trying to give you a message. It may be an itching feeling that you are going down the wrong path, or it could be that nagging feeling that someone is not being truthful. Suppression of thought and feeling will cause a situation to worsen, or at the least, to not improve. Whatever the case, it is time to quiet down and trust your intuition. These can be considered meaning for the Moon in an upright position.

In the reversed position, the Moon may signify that there has recently been a resolution to a negative event. This release may be followed with some stark realizations, so be prepared to accept whatever comes of the circumstances. On the other hand, the Moon in reverse could suggest that you are so deep in delusion or denial that you do not see an issue where one is apparent. If this is the case, you likey feel some amount of resistance at the sight of this card. Let go. Acceptance will allow you to move forward with grace.

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21 Questions For the Cards

We all have unanswered questions about ourselves, our careers, and our relationships. These make great topics for readings, but it might be difficult deciding the best way to ask these questions. In this post, I've outlined 21 questions that will be sure to set you up for an insightful reading!

Career:

How do I get my boss to promote me to (desired position)?

What are some ways I can become more effective at work?

What are the pros and cons of my career?

What should do to make more money at work/ get a raise?

Would quitting my job benefit me?

Which career path should I take? (be specific)

Relationships:

How can I improve my relationship with (person in question)?

What is holding me back from building a relationship with (person in question)?

How can I be a more supportive friend/ family member/ partner?

What is (person in question)s attitude/ feelings toward me?

How do I overcome a conflict with (person in question)?

Should I stay in contact with (person in question), or should I let them go?

What do I do to meet new people?

Self:

What kind of self-love do I need to start practicing?

Which traits have been holding me back from becoming who I want to be?

Where can I be more attentive to my health/well-being?

What do I need that I have been putting off?

What lessons are being taught to me right now?

What beliefs do I hold that I need to let go of?

How is generational trauma manifesting in my life?

What am I doing good in my life?

These questions are a great start to using tarot for insight. Of course, these are just outlines, so feel free to make them as unique as your personal path is. Always be specific, as it will make your answer more clear to you. Enjoy!!!

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Analysis: The Fool

The man shown in the photo is basking in sun, ignorant that the ground beneath him is unstable and ready to crumble at any moment. He manages to carry everything that he needs in his small knapsack. His dog stays at his feet loyal to him and his every move. A mountain range cascades behind him in the distance, displaying a long journey ahead. This doesn't seem to bother the fool as he is living in the moment. This card represents potential, but depending on the context of the reading it may represent the start of a new project or relationship, encouragement to follow your heart and commit, a reminder to stay in the moment, or a representation of innocence and naivety. These could be considered upright position meanings. Some possible reversed position interpretations are: decisions are being made recklessly, hesitancy to make an important decision, fear of the unknown, or someone who is stuck in ignorance. These are just a few ways that the fool can be analyzed in a reading. Meanings and interpretations will vary from person to person, but whatever resonates with you the most is always the right interpretation!

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How to Read Cards for Beginners

So you just got your cards, and you are ready to do your first reading. Are you nervous? Don't be. You don't need to have psychic powers to become a proficient card reader. I will outline a few easy steps to help ease you into the experience, but remember every reading is unique, so don't get caught up in the details!

Ask a question: When choosing a question, it is important that the question is personal to you. The answer you receive will be based on your own thoughts and feelings, so it will be biased. In the beginning it is good to ask questions about yourself. Some examples are: What are some ways I can improve..., How do I..., What are my good/bad character traits.., etc.

Choose the spread: Different spreads are used depending on how thoroughly you want your question to be answered, but I would suggest starting with smaller spread, like a horseshoe spread, or even a single card spread. This will prevent you from becoming overwhelmed with the amount of information you're receiving.

Shuffle those cards: While you shuffle your cards, close your eyes and focus on your question. Repeat your question to yourself out loud or in your head. Eventually you'll feel that the cards are in the right position (don't get caught up in trying to figure out when to stop, just let it happen naturally).

Lay out your cards: There are two ways you can layout your cards. You can pull them off the top of the deck and place them in their corresponding position, or you can spread them out face down and select each card yourself. If you decide to select them, let your hand hover over the cards, and pick the first card your hand is drawn too. Remember, there's no right or wrong way to pick a card!

Flip em' over and read em': You can flip all your cards at once, or one at a time. When you first flip your card, try not to instantly go to look up the meaning, instead analyze at the image. How does this card make you feel? What are the symbols, and how do they relate to your question? Do you see similarities between the person on the card and someone you know? If you're totally lost and want a deeper explanation, feel free to use a tarot card meaning resource of some kind.

You did it! What now?: Hopefully you were able to gain some insight from your reading. If you still don't understand the correlation, try taking a picture of your spread and revisiting it at a later time. I find that readings gain more relevance over time. Reading cards gets easier with practice, and eventually you will be able to just use your intuition to find meaning.

I hope this simplified explanation of card reading helped gently guide you through your first reading. If you need help with card meanings, I strongly suggest Tarot.com. I'll link their website below.

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The Unclear History of Tarot

Tarot is one of many forms of divination. For those who don't know, divination is the act of seeking advice or knowledge via "supernatural means". The true history of tarot is unclear, but there are a few key facts that help us to understand how they came to be. It is believed that Tarot originated in Europe in the mid-15th century. Tarot cards were used for entertainment and card games much like a regular old pack of bicycle cards is used today. Many people were not able to partake in such games because all the cards were hand-painted, and it was not until the printing press was invented that common folk had access to the cards.

Around the late 16th century to the early 17th century, 22 cards were added to the deck. These cards are called the "Major Arcana", and in the world of tarot, they are seen as symbols of the greater hidden influences of the universe in one's life. It was around this time that people began "reading" the cards to gain insight. All tarot cards use symbolism to jog the reader's intuition, helping them make connections between the images and their own experiences. Many believe that these symbols were derived from ancient Mythological Egyptian writings, and that they contained information that was kept sacred in Egyptian culture. While there is no solid evidence for this theory, the symbolism in tarot likely has ancient origins, as the symbols are universal in their ability to depict human experience.

While the mysterious origins of the tarot will never truly be known, there is a certain ancient wisdom we can all tap into through the cards. They depict human experience in a way that is timeless and universal, demonstrating the beautiful connection between all people across all timelines.