For centuries, tarot has been one of the most popular forms of divination work across the globe. From its European beginnings to its widespread modernization, the tarot has shaped the lives of many. Being able to read your own tarot cards opens the door to so much insight and deep personal reflection.

This guide will help you get familiar with your deck as you begin your journey with tarot and divination. First, let us skim over the tarot's rich history to gain a better understanding of how it all began.

Playful Origins

In the middle of the 15th century in Italy, a pack of playing cards were created that altered the course of history, known as the Visconti-Sforza deck. Created for the Duke of Milan, this set of cards was originally used to play a game called "tarocchi," somewhat similar to bridge.

The Visconti-Sforza deck is still beheld as one of the most recognizable and renown tarot decks. Some of the original cards are kept in museums around the globe, and some modern decks pay homage to the original design, like The Golden Tarot by Mary Packard.

This new gaming sensation was gaining traction all across Europe, with countries developing their own similar rules and decks.

Tarot cards were not regarded as divination tools until the 18th century, when documents began to surface that aimed to uncover a deeper meaning in the symbolism of the various decks and cards.

In approximately 1789, Eteilla was the first to release a deck meant specifically for divinatory purposes, setting the standard for the tarot decks we use today: 78 cards, containing the Major Arcana (22 cards) and the Minor Arcana (56 cards, divided into four suits).

Fast Forward: Modernization

Today, tarot is easily one of the most popular forms of divination. From the boardwalks on the coasts, to college dorm rooms, to flourishing online businesses, this centuries-old practice has truly rooted itself in modern culture.

Because of its popularization in today's world, there are an incredible amount of options when it comes to selecting a tarot deck. There are even a slew of "oracle decks" to choose from as well -- these are divinatory cards that do not subscribe to the Major and Minor Arcana, but are created to provide insight and foster reflection, just the same as any tarot deck.

One of our most popular oracle decks at the shop is the Animal Spirit deck by The Wild Unknown -- check it out in the photo below, and click here to purchase your own set!

Choosing Your Deck

To find the deck that is right for you, it is best to start by taking a look at the art on the cards. Does it spark your interest? Does it call to you? Then, begin to read some of the interpretations in the guidebook. Do the author's words resonate with you? Do they inspire you?

Keep looking until you feel a resounding "YES" -- that is your deck.

We have a rotating selection of tarot and oracle decks in the shop. Check out our collection online now.

Getting Started: A Card a Day

The best way to get acquainted with your new deck is by drawing one card every day, and keeping a journal of the experience. Dedicate a notebook to this journey, and each day, set aside at least 15 minutes for a tarot meditation.

Clear your mind, and clear space for your cards. You may even want to invest in an altar cloth or set up a special space in your home just for this practice, decorated as you wish with stones, statues, candles and more.

As you shuffle your cards, ask them for inspiration, for reflection, or simply for insight into your current state of mind. Cut the cards once, forming two stacks. Placing one stack on top of the other, draw the top card and flip it over.

Before opening your guidebook, really study the art on the card. What to the colors and images mean to you? What do you notice about the artistic choices made here? How does the card make you feel? What do you think this card means? Write it all down in your notebook.

Once you have written your own thoughts down, take a look at what the author has to say. Find your card in the guidebook and read the entry. Does your interpretation line up with the intention of the creator? What insights resonate with you? What did you miss? What did you get right? Again, write it all down.

Finally, find at least two things you can learn from pulling this particular card. Whether it is learning forgiveness and self-love; whether it is a reminder to ease up on the reigns, or even to tighten them.

As you go about your day, whether you are at work, spending time at home, walking your dog, or playing outside, keep that card in your mind's eye and use it as a lens through which you see the day. This will help you fully understand the meaning.

Do this every day, making your way through your entire deck. If you happen to pull the same card as a previous day, make a note that you pulled it as that is still significant and worth reflection, but be sure to make an entry on a new card each day.

Once you really get acquainted with your deck, there are tons of fun and useful spreads to try out. Laying the solid foundation and getting to know each card will help you fully understand and interpret more complicated spreads in the future.

Keep checking back to find out our favorite spreads and decks in a future post!

We want to know: What's your favorite deck? What's your favorite tarot spread? Tell us in the comments!