What Is Tarot and What Happens in a Tarot Reading?

In recent years, tarot card reading has gained widespread popularity as a spiritual and self-reflective tool. Whether you’re seeking clarity, navigating life changes, or simply curious about what the universe has in store, a tarot reading can offer unique insights and guidance.

But what exactly is tarot, and what can you expect during a reading? Let’s explore this ancient practice and how it continues to empower people today.

What Is Tarot?

Tarot is a form of divination that uses a deck of 78 cards to explore life’s questions and spiritual lessons. Each card in the tarot deck holds symbolic imagery and meaning. The deck is divided into:

• Major Arcana (22 cards): Represent major life themes and spiritual lessons.
  
  

• Minor Arcana (56 cards): Reflect day-to-day events and experiences, divided into four suits—Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands.
  
  

Tarot is not about predicting a fixed future. Instead, it’s a tool for reflection, perspective, and inner wisdom. It helps reveal underlying energies and offers guidance to help you make informed choices.

What Happens in a Tarot Reading?

A tarot reading is a personalized session where a reader uses tarot cards to answer your questions or provide insight into your life path. Here’s what typically happens:

1. Setting the Intention

The reading usually begins with a clear intention or question. It can be about love, career, relationships, personal growth, or even a general overview.

2. Shuffling and Drawing Cards

The reader shuffles the cards and draws a specific number of them in a chosen spread (such as the popular 3-card or Celtic Cross spread). Each card’s position in the spread holds a particular meaning.

3. Interpreting the Cards

Using intuition, symbolism, and experience, the tarot reader interprets the cards in relation to your question or situation. The reading may explore past influences, present energies, and future possibilities.

4. Dialogue and Reflection

A good tarot card reading isn’t just about telling you what the cards say—it’s a conversation. You’re encouraged to reflect, ask questions, and consider the insights offered.

Why Get a Tarot Reading?

People turn to tarot for various reasons:

• Clarity during uncertain times
  
  

• Insight into relationships and emotions
  
  

• Guidance for major life decisions
  
  

• Personal empowerment and self-awareness
  
  

• Spiritual growth and connection
  
  

A tarot session can help you see things from a new perspective and reconnect with your intuition.

Is Tarot a Psychic Practice?

While some readers incorporate psychic abilities into their work, not all tarot readings rely on psychic insight. Many practitioners use tarot as a psychological or spiritual tool, focusing on patterns, emotions, and self-discovery.

Tips for Your First Tarot Reading

• Come with an open mind and honest questions.
  
  

• Avoid asking yes/no questions—tarot works best with “how,” “what,” or “why.”
  
  

• Choose a reader whose style resonates with you—some are intuitive, others are more structured or spiritual.
  
  

• Use the insights as a guide, not a rulebook.
  
  

Conclusion

A tarot card reading is more than a mystical experience—it’s a journey into your own subconscious and a mirror to your inner truth. Whether you're seeking answers or simply curious, a tarot reading can be a powerful way to explore your path with greater clarity and confidence.