The Tarot Work Book
The Tarot Work Book
WORKBOOK
CONTENTS
Introduction
Section 1 - Getting Started
Section 2 - The Cards
Section 3 - Meanings
Section 4 - Spreads
Section 5 - Journal
Introduction
Tarot, a centuries-old divination tool, offers profound insights into our
lives, emotions, and the world around us. It's more than just a deck of
cards; it's a mirror reflecting the depths of our inner selves and the
mysteries of the universe. This workbook is your gateway to unlocking the
wisdom and magic of the tarot.
The tarot has the power to illuminate the paths of our lives. Allow this
workbook to serve as a comprehensive guide to tarot, and as a catalyst for
your personal growth and self-discovery.
Within these pages, you'll find everything you need to embark on your
tarot journey:
Let's begin.
S E C T I O N 1
Getting Started
Getting Started
Understanding the Basics of Tarot
Before we dive into the fascinating world of tarot cards, it's
important to grasp the basics of what tarot is, where it comes from,
and why it holds such significance in the realms of self-discovery
and divination.
Deck Structure: Consider the structure of the deck. Most decks are based on
the Rider-Waite system, consisting of 78 cards. If you're a beginner, it may
be wise to start with a Rider-Waite deck or one closely based on it.
Art Style: Tarot decks come in various styles, from classic & traditional to
abstract & avant-garde. Explore different decks to find the artwork that
speaks to you. Whether you prefer a minimalist or highly detailed design,
there's a deck out there for you.
Cleansing your Deck
It’s essential to cleanse and bond with your new deck. This process
clears any residual energy from the manufacturing and packaging
processes and establishes a connection between you and your cards.
Tarot decks can absorb both positive and negative energies, and regular
cleansing helps to keep the deck's vibrations clear and attuned to your
intuition.
Handle the cards carefully and treat your them with respect and care during the
cleansing process. How often you cleanse your deck depends on how
frequently you use it and the nature of the readings. Some readers cleanse their
decks after every reading, while others do it weekly or whenever they feel the
energy has become muddled.
The Cards
Tarot Card Structure
Understanding the components of each card is essential for
interpreting their meanings and unlocking the wisdom they hold. Tarot
cards are not just random images but intricate symbols with layers of
significance. Let's break down the structure of a tarot card step by
step:
Background
The background colour or pattern on tarot cards also carry significance. Bright,
vibrant colors may suggest positivity and energy, while muted or dark colors might
indicate challenges or introspection. Take note of the card's overall aesthetic and
how it resonates with you.
Card Reversal
While many tarot readers work exclusively with upright card meanings,
some also interpret reversed (upside-down) cards. Reversed cards can
indicate blockages, challenges, or a need for deeper introspection. .
The Major Arcana
The tarot deck is divided into two main sections: the Major Arcana and
the Minor Arcana. These two divisions have distinct characteristics
and serve different purposes in a tarot reading.
The Major Arcana cards typically have deeper, more profound meanings
and often carry a strong, overarching message in a reading. They reflect
the core aspects of a person's life and personal growth.
The Major Arcana is associated with broader life phases and experiences.
When these cards appear in a reading, they indicate significant shifts and
turning points in one's life.
Four Suits
Wands Cups
Associated with the Aligned with the
element of fire, element of water,
representing symbolizing
passion, emotions,
inspiration, and intuition, and
action. relationships.
Swords Pentacles
Tied to the element Linked to the element
of air, signifying of earth, embodying
thoughts, material aspects,
communication, resources, and
and challenges. practicality.
Within each suit, you'll find numbered cards from Ace through Ten. These
cards represent a range of experiences and emotions associated with that
suit. For example, the Ace of Cups may signify new emotional beginnings,
while the Ten of Pentacles might symbolize financial stability and legacy.
Page
Often associated with youth and innocence. They symbolize new beginnings,
enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn. May represent a young person or
someone with a childlike approach to the suit's energy.
Keywords: Curiosity, exploration, fresh perspective.
Knight
Represents action, movement, and courage. They symbolize a more mature and
proactive approach to the suit's energy. A Knight may suggest a person or
situation that is determined, ambitious, and ready to take on challenges.
Keywords: Energy, drive, and a sense of adventure.
Queen
Queens embody the qualities of nurturing, compassion, and emotional depth.
They often represent individuals or situations that involve care, empathy, and a
strong connection to the suit's emotional or practical aspects.
Keywords: Wise, supportive, and emotionally mature.
King
Kings represent leadership, authority, and mastery of the suit's energy. They
often symbolize individuals who are in a position of power or expertise within a
specific domain. Known for their wisdom, responsibility, and the ability to make
sound decisions.
Keywords: Guidance, stability, and a strong sense of leadership.
Reading the Cards
While Major Arcana cards have universal archetypal meanings, the
interpretations of Minor Arcana cards can vary widely based on the
reader's intuition, the context of the reading, and the surrounding
cards. This diversity makes the Minor Arcana versatile in providing
guidance tailored to each unique situation.
Balancing Act
The Minor Arcana cards work alongside the Major Arcana to create a
balanced perspective of life's experiences. While the Major Arcana
focuses on significant life lessons and universal themes, the Minor Arcana
offers the practical tools, emotional responses, and decisions required to
navigate these lessons.
r s eI nt e rpr e t at
Sequential Storytelling
iv e i o ns
The Minor Arcana often form D
a narrative or sequence of While Major Arcana cards
have universal archetypal meanings,
events that detail the
the interpretations of Minor Arcana
progression of a situation or a
cards can vary widely based on the
person's journey. When laid reader's intuition, the context of the
out in sequence, these cards reading, and the surrounding cards.
can tell a story, providing This diversity makes the Minor Arcana
valuable insights into the versatile in providing guidance
development of a situation or tailored to each unique
a personal path. situation.
Reading Tips
When conducting tarot readings, focus on a clear intention, shuffle with
purpose, and trust your intuition as you interpret the cards. Maintain an
open mind to any unexpected insights that may arise. Practice
regularly, and approach readings with respect, ethics, and a
compassionate attitude when reading for others.
Practice Regularly
Tarot reading is a skill that improves with practice. The more you
practice, the more you'll develop your understanding of the cards and
your ability to connect with your intuition.
S E C T I O N 3
Meanings
1 New Beginnings
Potential
Idea Stage
Opportunity
l 2 Decisions
Partnerships
Balance
Duality
ll
3 Growth
Creation
Activation
Groups
lll 4 Stability
Foundations
Security
Structure
lV
5 Conflict
Change
Tension
Loss
V 6 Harmony
Co-operation
Improvement
Healing
Vl
7 8
Alignement Mastery
Improvement
Assessment
Vll Progress
Action Vlll
Moving things forward Acomplishment
9 Nearing Completion
Attainment
Intensity
Fruition
lX 10 Full completion
Final Outcome
End of Cycle
Renewal
X
S E C T I O N 4
Spreads
Tarot Spreads
Tarot spreads are predefined layouts of tarot cards used to provide
structure and context for a tarot reading. Different spreads offer
unique insights into various aspects of a question or situation.
Common Spreads
1 card Celtic Cross
For quick insight/answer A comprehensive ten-card spread,
providing insights into past, present,
3 card
future, & hidden influences.
Still short but more in-depth. Often used
as a Past-Present-Future reading, Relationship Spread
though can be for anything. Examines relationship dynamics, with
Horseshoe Spread positions for both individuals'
Seven-card spread providing perspectives and their connection.
analysis of a situation, offering Career Spread
insights into past influences, present provides insights into job prospects,
circumstances, & future possibilities. career choices, and professional
development.
Past, Present & Futureread
r o t S p
Ta
A three card Past, Present, and Future tarot spread is a simple yet
powerful spread that provides insight into your life's timeline and how
past experiences and actions may be influencing your present and
future.
Card Card 2
1
Card 1 represents the current circumstances or the core of the issue you are facing. It
provides insight into what is happening right now.
Card 2 reveals the obstacles or challenges you may encounter as you navigate the
situation. It offers guidance on what you need to overcome.
Card 3 signifies the actions or choices you can take to find clarity and resolution. It
points you in the direction of achieving greater understanding.
Card 4 uncovers any underlying or hidden factors that may be affecting the situation.
It brings to light elements you may not have considered.
Card 5 indicates the potential outcome based on your current path and choices. Keep
in mind this outcome is not set in stone and can be influenced by your actions.
Career p r e a d
arot S
T
This career spread is designed to provide insights into your
professional journey, offering guidance on career choices, growth, and
satisfaction. It consists of five cards, each with a specific focus.
Card 4 Card 5
Card 2 reveals your career goals, dreams, and aspirations. It offers guidance on what
you're working towards professionally and what motivates you.
Card 3 represents your professional strengths and skills. It highlights your unique
talents and abilities that can help you excel in your career.
Card 4 identifies obstacles/challenges that may be hindering your career progress. It
provides insights into areas where you may need to overcome obstacles.
Card 5 offers advice for your career path. It provides guidance on what steps to take,
decisions to make, or areas to focus on for professional fulfillment..
Relationship p r e a d
arot S
T
This relationship spread is designed to offer insights and guidance into
the dynamics of a relationship, whether it's romantic, familial, or
platonic.
Card Card
1 2
Card 1 represents your perspective in the relationship. It offers insights into your
feelings, thoughts, and desires within the relationship.
Journal
Keep a Tarot Journal
A tarot journal is a transformative tool for self-discovery and intuitive
growth. Beyond tracking card pulls, it becomes a dynamic record of
evolving insights and personal reflections, fostering self-awareness
and deepening your connection with the cards.
Question
Card Pulled
My Interpretation
Key Words:
1.
2.
3.
Spread Used
Question:
Cards Pulled:
Insights
Daily Journal &
Readings Tracker
Use the Daily Journal (above) to pull a daily card, for insights on the day.
Use the Readings Tracker (above) to keep track of the readings you do,
no matter how many cards in your spread.