When you decide to embark on a journey of Tarot reading, selecting your first Tarot deck can be just as pivotal as your first reading itself. Whether you’re drawn to Tarot as a form of guidance, self-reflection, or for spiritual reasons, the deck you choose can deeply influence your connection to the insights and messages it holds. This post will guide you through choosing your first Tarot deck and building a relationship with it, ensuring a meaningful and intuitive experience.
Understanding Tarot Basics
Before diving into buying your first Tarot deck, it’s beneficial to understand what Tarot is and how it works. Tarot decks consist of 78 cards which include 22 Major Arcana cards and 56 Minor Arcana cards. The Major Arcana cards depict major life changes and deep revelations, while the Minor Arcana cards assist with day-to-day insights.
Choosing Your First Tarot Deck
1. Research Different Decks
There are countless Tarot decks available, each with unique artwork and thematic elements. Start by researching different styles and themes. Do you prefer traditional imagery, such as that found in the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, or are you drawn to something more modern or specific to a certain aesthetic, like mystical or nature-themed decks?
2. Connect With the Imagery
The imagery of a Tarot deck is immensely significant. The symbols, colors, and artistic style should resonate with you emotionally. If the images speak to you or stir something within, that deck could be the right choice. Feeling a personal connection with the images can enhance your intuitive abilities when reading the cards.
3. Consider Card Quality and Usability
The physical quality of a deck matters for handling and durability. Decks with good-quality cardstock will last longer and be more pleasant to shuffle. Also, ensure the size of the cards suits your hands.
4. Listen to Recommendations but Trust Your Intuition
While it’s useful to read reviews and listen to recommendations, your personal connection with a deck tops all other advice. If one deck particularly calls to you, it might just be your Tarot deck.
Connecting With Your Tarot Deck
Once you have selected your first Tarot deck, here are some steps to start building a relationship and deepen your understanding:
1. Cleanse Your Deck
Cleansing your deck before its first use removes any previous energies it may have and aligns it to your energy. Methods range from passing the cards through incense smoke, using crystals, or simply knocking on the deck three times to clear stored energies.
2. Daily Card Draws
Begin by pulling a card daily to understand its meanings and reflect on its message for your day. This practice not only helps you learn the cards but also builds a daily connection between you and your deck.
3. Journal Your Tarot Journey
Keep a dedicated Tarot journal. Writing down your card draws, your feelings about them, and how their meanings relate to your daily life can deepen your relationship with the cards and enhance your interpretation skills.
4. Meditation and Visualization
Spend time meditating with your deck. Visualize opening channels of communication between your intuition and the imagery of the cards. Ask the deck to guide you and show you the lessons you need to learn.
Developing Tarot Reading Skills
1. Learn from Others
Engage in Tarot communities or follow online forums. Learning from experienced Tarot readers can provide valuable insights and new perspectives on Tarot reading practices.
2. Be Patient and Stay Consistent
Patience is essential as you familiarize yourself with your deck. Regular practice by conducting readings and immersing yourself in Tarot studies aids skill development.
3. Use Books and Online Resources
Supplement your learning with books tailored to beginners and reliable online Tarot resources. They can provide detailed meanings of the cards and different reading techniques.
Conclusion
Choosing your first Tarot deck is a personal journey that should be approached with curiosity and care. Once selected, your journey towards building a connection with your deck and honing your Tarot reading skills begins. Remember, the right Tarot deck for you is one that resonates with your intuition and feels like a natural extension of yourself. Enjoy the process and welcome the growth that comes with your Tarot exploration.
By embracing these principles and dedicating time to connect with your Tarot deck, you’re well on your way to becoming adept in the art of Tarot reading, ready to unlock the mysteries and insights that the cards hold. May your Tarot journey be enlightening and transformative, filled with growth and self-discovery.
