Deepening Your Tarot Card Meanings for Intuitive Readings

Tarot cards have been used for centuries as a tool for divination and self-discovery. However, understanding the meanings behind each card can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With so many cards and intricate symbolism, how can one deepen their understanding and intuition when it comes to interpreting tarot cards? In this article, we will explore various techniques and tips to help you enhance your tarot readings and connect with the meanings behind the cards on a deeper level. Combining numerology, symbolism, and intuition along with meditation, journaling, and tarot spreads, we will guide you on a journey to further expand your understanding and improve your tarot readings.

Understanding Tarot Card Meanings

As a beginner, understanding the meanings behind each tarot card can be perplexing; especially when you consider the various interpretations and approaches available for reading the cards. Nonetheless, it is crucial to have a solid understanding of tarot card meanings if you hope to improve your intuitive reading skills. In this section, we will explore the different ways that tarot card meanings can be understood, including the roles played by major and minor arcana, numerology, symbolism, intuition, and personal experience. By the end of this section, you will be better equipped to tackle the challenges that interpreting tarot cards can present, and start to form your unique relationship with the cards. For more information on tarot spreads for intuitive readings, check out our article “Tarot Spreads for Intuitive Readings”.

1.1 Major and Minor Arcana

The Tarot deck is typically divided into two main groups: Major Arcana and Minor Arcana. The Major Arcana consists of 22 cards that are associated with deep spiritual and psychological themes. These cards often represent major life events, challenges, and turning points. They are numbered using Roman numerals from I to XXI, with the final card, The Fool, represented with a 0 or XXII.

On the other hand, the Minor Arcana is made up of 56 cards and is divided into four suits: Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands. Each suit has 14 cards, with the first 10 cards representing different stages of a journey or situation, and the remaining 4 cards representing people or personalities involved in the situation.

Both Major and Minor Arcana cards hold important meanings that can assist in intuitive readings. Major Arcana cards focus on the larger picture, while Minor Arcana cards provide details and specifics about the situation being read. By understanding the meanings of these cards and how they relate to one another in a spread, readers can gain greater insight into the person or situation being read.

It is important to note that while the cards have general meanings, they can also have personal significance based on the reader’s intuition and the context of the reading. By tapping into one’s intuition and personal experiences, tarot readers can provide an even deeper level of understanding and insight throughout the reading.

To continue exploring intuitive readings with tarot cards, check out our article on Intuition and Tarot Cards or our guide on Unlocking Your Intuitive Potential with Tarot.

1.2 Numerology

Numerology is another significant aspect of understanding tarot card meanings for intuitive readings. Each tarot card has a number, and these numbers have a specific meaning that can help provide deeper insights into the card’s symbolism.

The following are some examples of how numerology can enhance your tarot readings:

1. Number One: This number represents new beginnings, independence, and individuality. Cards with this number may suggest taking a leadership role or embarking on a new journey.
2. Number Two: Representing duality or partnerships, number two can indicate the need for balance or cooperation. Tarot cards with this number may suggest the importance of working with others or finding harmony within yourself.
3. Number Three: Known for creativity, expansion, and growth, this number is often associated with self-expression and manifestation. Tarot cards with this number may suggest that it’s time to explore your artistic talents or embrace new opportunities.
4. Number Four: Representing stability, structure, and practicality, number four can indicate a need for perseverance or attention to details. Tarot cards with this number may suggest that it’s time to focus on building a solid foundation or making well-planned decisions.
5. Number Five: This number is linked to change, freedom, and adaptability. With a tarot card that has this number, you may want to embrace new experiences or be ready to roll with any transitions.

By understanding the numerology of tarot cards, you can delve deeper into their meanings and receive even greater insights during your intuitive readings. Keep in mind; the numerology of tarot cards works together with the symbolism, intuition, and personal experience.

If you want to learn more about how numerology can enhance your tarot readings, you can check out our article on exploring the symbolism of tarot cards. Additionally, we also have an article that explores the connection between tarot and intuition, which can shed further light on the subject.

1.3 Symbolism

Symbolism is a crucial element in understanding tarot card meanings as it anchors the card to specific associations and meanings. Symbolism can be found in various aspects of the cards, such as colors, objects, animals, and even clothing.

Colors: Each color carries its own symbolism and meaning, and it can add depth to your tarot readings. For example, red often represents passion, energy, and courage, while blue represents calmness, stability, and serenity. Pay attention to the dominant colors in your tarot spreads and think about what they might represent.

Objects: Objects in tarot cards can add layers of meaning, and they are often carefully chosen to enhance the overall message of the card. For instance, a sword may represent conflict, decision-making, or power, while flowers can signify growth, beauty, or new beginnings.

Animals: Animals in tarot cards have different meanings depending on their characteristics and behavior. For instance, a lion may represent strength, courage, or leadership, while a dove can symbolize peace, harmony, or love. Pay attention to the animals in your tarot spreads as they may provide clues to the message of the card.

Clothing: Clothing in tarot cards can also be symbolic and provide clues to the card’s meaning. For example, a person wearing a crown may represent authority, power, or leadership, while a person wearing a ragged dress may indicate poverty or hardship.

Understanding the symbolism in tarot cards requires practice and patience, but it can greatly enhance your intuitive readings. By paying attention to the symbols in your tarot spreads, you can gain a deeper understanding of the message of each card.

To deepen your knowledge of tarot symbolism, try incorporating symbolism exercises into your practice. For example, you can choose a few tarot cards and look up their symbols in a tarot symbol dictionary. Then, try to interpret the cards based on their symbolism alone. This exercise can help you strengthen your intuition and understanding of tarot card meanings.

One of the biggest challenges of interpreting tarot card symbolism is trusting your intuition. Sometimes, the symbols in a card may not make sense logically, but they may resonate with you on a deeper level. This is where trusting your instincts and intuition comes into play. To learn more about trusting your intuition in tarot readings, check out our article on Tarot Instincts: Learning to Trust Your Inner Voice.

Ultimately, understanding tarot card symbolism is a key component in enhancing your intuitive readings. By paying attention to the colors, objects, animals, and clothing in a card, you can gain a deeper understanding of its meaning and message.

1.4 Intuition and Personal Experience

One of the most important aspects of tarot reading is intuition and personal experience. While understanding the traditional meanings of the cards is essential, it is equally important to trust your own instincts and intuition when interpreting them.

Every person experiences the tarot differently, and interpreting a reading involves tapping into your own unique perspective and intuition. As you become more familiar with the cards and their meanings, you’ll begin to rely less on rote memorization and more on your intuition.

Your personal experience and background can also influence your interpretations of the cards. For example, if you have a strong connection to animals, the presence of an animal in a card may hold a deeper meaning for you than it would for someone else.

It’s important to remember that tarot readings are highly subjective, and what may be the “right” interpretation for one person may not hold true for another. It’s crucial to approach each reading with an open mind and a willingness to tap into your own intuition and personal experience.

To further enhance your intuitive understanding of the tarot, it can be helpful to incorporate other intuitive practices into your routine. This can include practices such as meditation, visualization, and journaling. Additionally, paying attention to cycles and patterns in your own life can help you gain a deeper understanding of the cards and their meanings.

Ultimately, the key to successful tarot reading is to trust your own intuition and unique perspective. While understanding the traditional meanings of the cards is important, it is equally important to allow your intuition and personal experience to guide you in interpreting them.

For more information about overcoming common challenges in intuitive tarot reading, check out our article here.

Techniques to Enhance Your Intuitive Readings

As with any skill, developing your intuition and enhancing your tarot readings requires practice and dedication. Luckily, there are many techniques you can use to further deepen your connection to the cards and sharpen your intuitive abilities. Let’s explore some of these methods below, which will help you gain a deeper understanding of tarot card meanings and improve the accuracy and effectiveness of your readings.

2.1 Meditation and Visualization

One of the most effective techniques for enhancing your intuitive readings is through the practice of meditation and visualization. By calming your mind and using visualization techniques, you can tap into your intuition and deepen your understanding of the tarot card meanings. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

Point	Description
1	Choose a quiet space. Find a comfortable and uninterrupted space where you can meditate and visualize without distractions. This will help you focus and get the most out of your practice.
2	Set an intention. Before you begin your meditation and visualization practice, set an intention for what you want to achieve from the session. This could be gaining clarity on a particular question or issue, or simply deepening your connection to your intuition.
3	Choose a tarot card to focus on. Select a tarot card that you want to deepen your understanding of. You can choose a card at random, or intentionally select one that you feel drawn to.
4	Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Begin by taking a few deep breaths and allowing your body and mind to relax. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, feeling the rhythm of your inhales and exhales.
5	Visualize the card. Once you feel centered and relaxed, begin to visualize the tarot card you selected. Picture the imagery, colors, and symbols in your mind’s eye, and try to create a vivid mental image of the card.
6	Connect with your intuition. As you hold the visualization of the tarot card in your mind, allow yourself to connect with your intuition. Pay attention to any thoughts, feelings, or sensations that arise, and allow yourself to be open to any messages or insights that come to you.
7	Take notes. After you finish your meditation and visualization practice, take some time to write down any insights or messages you received. This will help you remember what you learned and integrate it into your tarot readings moving forward.

By regularly practicing meditation and visualization with tarot cards, you can deepen your understanding of their meanings and develop a stronger connection to your intuition. This will allow you to give more insightful and accurate readings for yourself and others.

2.2 Journaling

Journaling is a popular technique among tarot card readers for enhancing their intuitive readings. Keeping a journal allows you to document your tarot readings, track your progress, and gain insights into your own thought processes and intuition.

To start journaling, create a dedicated notebook for your tarot readings. Before each reading, take a moment to write down any questions, concerns or reflections that you have. After the reading, document the cards that were drawn, the meanings associated with them and any significant patterns or themes that emerge.

Journaling can also help you understand and develop your own symbols and interpretations of the tarot cards. As you document your readings, take note of any symbols or images that stand out to you and write down what they mean to you personally.

Additionally, reflect on your emotions and intuition throughout the reading process. Take note of any strong feelings or gut instincts that arise, and record how they relate to the cards and your interpretations.

By regularly reviewing your journal entries, you can gain valuable insights into your own intuitive process and how it relates to the tarot cards. Over time, you may notice patterns or themes in your readings that offer deeper insights into your self-awareness and personal growth.

Here is an example of a journal entry for a tarot reading:

Date:	June 18th, 2021
Question:	What can I do to improve my relationship with my partner?
Cards Drawn:	The Tower (reversed), The Lovers, The Empress
Meanings:	The Tower (reversed) suggests a need to let go of old patterns and beliefs that are holding the relationship back. The Lovers card signals a strong emotional connection and a need for honesty and open communication. The Empress card represents nurturing and creative energy that can help bring the relationship to the next level.
Themes/Patterns:	A need for release, honesty and nurturing in order to improve the relationship.
Emotions/Intuition:	During the reading, I felt a strong sense of release and relief when The Tower card was drawn. I also had a gut feeling that The Empress card was significant and represented a creative solution to the relationship issues we’re facing.

2.3 Tarot Spreads

Tarot spreads are an essential part of intuitive readings. They help structure the reading and provide a framework for interpreting the cards. There are many different types of tarot spreads, ranging from simple three-card spreads to more complex spreads that incorporate multiple cards and positions. When selecting a tarot spread, consider the purpose of the reading and choose a spread that aligns with it.

One popular tarot spread is the Celtic Cross spread, which consists of ten cards that each represent a different aspect of the querent’s situation or question. This spread can provide deep insight into the querent’s past, present, and future, as well as the factors influencing their situation and the potential outcomes.

Another popular spread is the Daily Reflection spread, which is a simple three-card spread that can be used for daily guidance or to gain insight into a specific situation. The first card represents the querent’s current situation, the second card represents what they should focus on or be aware of, and the third card represents the potential outcome.

Creating your own tarot spread can also be a powerful tool for deepening your understanding of the cards and their meanings. Decide on the purpose of the reading, select the number of cards and positions you want to use, and assign each position a specific meaning or focus. This allows for a personalized and tailored reading that can provide unique insight for the querent.

It’s important to remember that tarot spreads are just a tool and should not be relied on solely for interpretation. The cards themselves carry powerful messages and symbolism, and the positions in a tarot spread are simply a guide to help organize the information. It’s important to stay open to the messages of the cards and allow your intuition to guide your interpretation, even if it deviates from the assigned position in the spread.

Tarot spreads can be a valuable tool for enhancing your intuitive readings. Choosing the right spread for the situation and incorporating your own intuition and personal meanings can provide deep insight and clarity for both you and the querent.

2.4 Cycles and Patterns

Understanding the cycles and patterns of tarot cards is another powerful technique to enhance your intuitive readings. Every tarot card holds a unique energy and message, and when combined with neighboring cards, they create a story that can depict a situation or answer a question in a holistic manner.

Using a tarot spread can reveal these cycles and patterns, as it arranges the cards in a specific order. Some popular tarot spreads for identifying cycles and patterns include the Celtic Cross, the Three-Card Spread, and the Nine-Card Spread. As you become more familiar with these spreads, you can start to notice recurring patterns and themes in your readings.

Another way to identify patterns is to pay attention to the numerology of the cards. Each number in the tarot deck holds its own unique energy and meaning. For instance, the number three represents growth, creativity, and communication. By identifying these numbers in your spread, you can start to see patterns emerge and gain a deeper understanding of the overall message.

In addition, paying attention to the suits can also reveal cycles and patterns. The four suits in the tarot deck – Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles – each represent different aspects of life, such as creativity, relationships, intellect, and material success. By identifying the dominant suit in a spread, you can gain insight into the main theme or energy of the situation.

It’s important to remember that while cycles and patterns can be useful in tarot readings, they should not be relied upon solely. Each reading is unique, and the energy and message of the cards can change depending on the question and the person receiving the reading. By combining your knowledge of cycles and patterns with your intuition and personal experience, you can offer more accurate and insightful tarot readings.

To summarize, identifying cycles and patterns in tarot readings can be a powerful technique to gain deeper insight into a situation. This can be achieved through the use of tarot spreads, numerology, and suit symbolism. However, it’s important to use cycles and patterns in conjunction with intuition and personal experience for the most accurate and impactful readings.

Techniques to Identify Cycles and Patterns	Examples
Using tarot spreads	Celtic Cross, Three-Card Spread, Nine-Card Spread
Identifying numerology	Three represents growth, creativity, and communication
Noticing dominant suits	Wands for creativity, Cups for relationships, Swords for intellect, Pentacles for material success

2.5 Trusting Your Intuition

Trusting your intuition is a crucial aspect of tarot reading, as it allows you to tap into your innate wisdom and connect with the energy of the cards. However, many novice readers may struggle with deciphering the messages of the cards and fully trusting their intuition. Here are some tips to help you develop your trust in your intuition during your tarot readings:

1. Silence your Mind	Before beginning your reading, take a few moments to quiet your mind and focus on your breath. This will help you to clear any mental clutter and tap into your intuition.
2. Pay Attention to Physical Sensations	During your tarot reading, pay attention to any physical sensations that arise in your body. For example, you may feel a flutter in your stomach, a tightness in your chest, or a warm sensation in your fingertips. These physical sensations can indicate a message from your intuition.
3. Look Beyond the Literal Meaning of the Cards	While it’s important to understand the traditional meanings associated with each card, remember that the cards can also have a deeper, more personal message for you. Allow your intuition to guide you in interpreting the cards in a way that resonates with you.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice	The more you practice trusting your intuition during tarot readings, the easier it will become. With time and repetition, you will develop a stronger sense of confidence in your intuition.
5. Let Go of Fear and Doubt	Fear and doubt can cloud your intuition and prevent you from fully trusting your inner wisdom. Practice letting go of these negative emotions and approach each reading with an open mind and heart.

By following these techniques and continuously practicing, you can develop a strong sense of trust in your intuition and confidently deliver insightful readings. Remember to approach each reading with an open mind and heart, and allow the cards to guide you towards deeper understanding and self-discovery.

Tips for Improving Your Tarot Readings

As you continue to deepen your understanding of tarot card meanings and enhance your intuitive abilities, it’s important to also focus on improving your tarot readings. While practice and regular study is essential, there are also various tips and techniques that can help you become a better tarot reader. In this section, we’ll explore some practical tips that can help you take your tarot readings to the next level and provide even more insightful and meaningful guidance for yourself or your clients. So, let’s dive in and discover how you can improve your tarot readings with these helpful hints.

3.1 Study and Practice Regularly

Continual study and practice of Tarot card meanings is essential for becoming a proficient Tarot reader. Studying the meanings of the cards allows you to become familiar with various interpretations and symbols associated with each card. This is an ongoing process that requires dedication and perseverance.

Here are some tips to ensure effective and regular study and practice:

• Read books and online resources: There are several books and websites dedicated to Tarot card meanings. Choose ones that resonate with you and start with the basics.
• Set aside regular study time: Schedule specific times for studying the cards, and stick to the schedule. Even 15 minutes a day can be effective.
• Practice with others: Join a Tarot group or get together with Tarot reading friends. Practice reading for each other and discuss interpretations.
• Try new techniques: Experiment with different techniques such as spreads, numerology, and symbolism. This allows for a deeper understanding of the cards and their meanings.

Remember, the more you practice, the more confident you will become in your interpretations. Consistency and dedication to studying and practicing Tarot will ultimately lead to a deeper understanding of the cards and their meanings.

3.2 Stay Open and Non-Judgmental

When conducting tarot readings, it is essential to maintain an open and non-judgmental mindset. This means setting aside any preconceived notions or biases you may hold about a particular situation or individual. To enhance your objectivity during readings, consider implementing the following strategies:

By staying open and non-judgmental during tarot readings, you allow the cards to speak for themselves and provide guidance that is as objective and accurate as possible. Remember, the goal is not to have a predetermined outcome in mind, but rather to provide insight and clarity for the individual seeking guidance.

3.3 Use Your Imagination

When it comes to tarot readings, using your imagination can be incredibly beneficial. Your imagination is a powerful tool that can help you to interpret the cards in a unique way, and uncover insights you may not have seen otherwise. Here are some ways to tap into your imagination during your tarot readings:

• Visualize the Scene: As you look at the cards, try to imagine yourself within the scene depicted. What sounds do you hear? What smells are in the air? What do you feel on your skin? By using your senses to create a vivid mental image, you may discover new meanings within the cards.
• Make Connections: Use your imagination to connect the cards in new and interesting ways. Look for symbols or themes that span across multiple cards, and think about how they might relate to each other. This can help you to build a more complex and nuanced interpretation of the reading.
• Create Your Own Stories: Tarot cards are like pieces of a puzzle, and your imagination can help you to put them together in unique ways. As you look at the cards, try to create your own narrative or story that ties them all together. This can help you to see the reading as a whole, instead of individual pieces.
• Use Your Intuition: Your intuition is closely tied to your imagination, and by trusting it, you can explore new avenues of interpretation. Don’t be afraid to let your mind wander and see where it takes you.

By using your imagination during tarot readings, you can unlock new insights and interpretations within the cards. This is an important part of developing your tarot reading skills, and can help you to provide more meaningful and insightful readings for yourself and others.

3.4 Take Care of Your Tarot Cards

Your tarot cards are an essential tool for your readings, so it’s important to take good care of them. Here are some tips to keep your cards in top condition:

• Handle with care: When you’re using your tarot cards, make sure to handle them gently. Don’t shuffle them too roughly or bend them excessively as this can damage the cards.
• Store them properly: It’s important to store your tarot cards in a safe and secure place when you’re not using them. You can keep them in a special cloth bag or box to protect them from damage, moisture or dust.
• Clean them regularly: You can keep your tarot cards clean by wiping them with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using any water or cleaning products as this can damage the cards. Also, try to keep the cards away from any food or drink to prevent spills or stains.
• Avoid overexposure: Try to keep your tarot cards away from exposure to direct sunlight, heat, or dampness as this can affect the durability and color of the cards. Additionally, it is best to avoid using your tarot cards in public or with people who may not treat them with the same care as you do.
• Respect their energy: Your tarot cards are linked to your intuition and energy, so it’s essential to treat them with reverence and respect. Try not to let other people touch or handle your tarot cards, as they may not have the same respect or energy as you do.

By taking good care of your tarot cards, you can ensure that they stay in excellent condition for years to come, and continue to provide you with accurate and intuitive readings.

3.5 Know Your Limits

It is important to know your limits when it comes to tarot readings. While it can be tempting to try to provide answers for every question asked, it is important to recognize that there are limitations to the information that the cards can provide.

One way to determine your limits is by setting guidelines for yourself. This could include a specific number of readings you are comfortable doing in one day or week, or a list of topics you are not comfortable addressing in readings.

It is also important to recognize when a reading is beyond your scope of expertise. For example, if a client comes to you with a serious health issue, it is important to acknowledge that you are not a medical professional and are not qualified to provide advice or diagnoses. Instead, focus on providing guidance and insight that the cards can offer within the context of the client’s situation.

Be mindful of your own emotional limitations. If a reading touches on a personal trauma or triggers an emotional response, it is okay to acknowledge that and take a break if necessary. This is why self-care is an important aspect of any tarot practice.

By knowing your limits and setting guidelines and boundaries for yourself, you can provide more ethical and responsible readings while also taking care of your own well-being.

| Tips For Knowing Your Limits |
|:—————————–|
| Set guidelines for yourself |
| Acknowledge what is beyond your scope of expertise |
| Be mindful of your own emotional limitations |
| Practice self-care |

Conclusion

In conclusion, deepening your understanding of tarot card meanings for intuitive readings is a process that requires both practice and patience. By exploring the major and minor arcana, numerology, symbolism, and trusting your intuition and personal experience, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of each tarot card and its meanings.

Techniques such as meditation and visualization, journaling, tarot spreads, acknowledging cycles and patterns, and trusting your intuition can greatly enhance your intuitive readings. However, it is important to remember that improving your tarot readings is an ongoing process that requires consistent study and practice.

To make the most of your tarot cards, stay open-minded, non-judgmental, and use your imagination. Additionally, taking care of your tarot cards and knowing your limits are crucial to ensuring that your readings are accurate and meaningful.

Incorporating these tips and techniques into your tarot readings can help you develop a deeper connection to your deck and uncover valuable insights and guidance. Remember to stay patient with yourself and trust the process, as the more you practice and explore, the more you’ll be able to develop your own unique approach to tarot reading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of tarot decks are there?

There are a wide variety of tarot decks available, from traditional decks based on the Rider-Waite-Smith system to decks with unique themes and imagery. Some decks even have different numbers of cards or use different suits.

Do I need to be psychic to read tarot cards?

No, you don’t need to be psychic to read tarot cards. While some people believe that the cards have a mystical power, anyone can learn to read them with practice and study.

How do I choose a tarot deck?

Choosing a tarot deck is a personal decision based on your preferences. Consider the imagery and symbolism of the deck, as well as the artist’s interpretation of the traditional meanings.

What is the difference between Major Arcana and Minor Arcana cards?

The Major Arcana cards represent significant life events and spiritual themes, while the Minor Arcana cards represent more mundane aspects of everyday life.

What is numerology and how does it relate to tarot?

Numerology is the study of numbers and their meanings. Each tarot card has a numerological value that can add to its interpretation and give insight into the reading.

Can I make my own tarot spreads?

Yes, you can make your own tarot spreads based on your specific question or reflection. It’s important to make sure the spread has a clear purpose and provides insight into the situation.

Do I need to cleanse my tarot cards and how do I do it?

It’s a good idea to cleanse your tarot cards regularly to clear any negative energy or residue. You can do this by shuffling the deck while holding the intention to cleanse it, or by placing the cards under a full moon.

How do I trust my intuition during a tarot reading?

Trusting your intuition during a tarot reading involves letting go of preconceived notions and allowing yourself to tune in to your inner guidance. Practice meditation and self-reflection to strengthen your intuition.

Are there any rules or taboos I should follow during a tarot reading?

While there are no hard and fast rules, it’s important to approach the cards with respect and reverence. Avoid reading for others without their permission, and don’t use the cards to manipulate or influence others.

Can I use tarot cards for decision making?

Yes, you can use tarot cards to help you make decisions. However, it’s important to remember that the cards are not set in stone and should be used as a tool for insight and reflection rather than a definitive answer.

References

• Awaken Your Intuition and Psychic Powers with Tarot
• Scrying