Have you bought your first tarot deck and don't know where to start? Don't panic. Tarot isn't just for experts or psychics—it's a tool for self-reflection accessible to everyone. Here's everything you need to know to get started.

What exactly is tarot?

Tarot is a 78-card deck divided into two main parts: the 22 Major Arcana (the big symbolic cards like The Fool, The Moon, The Sun) and the 56 Minor Arcana (divided into 4 suits: Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles). Each card carries a symbolically rich image that can help you reflect on a situation, a question, or an emotion.

Tarot does not absolutely predict the future. Instead, it offers you a mirror of your current situation and avenues for reflection to move forward.

Choosing your first tarot deck

There are hundreds of different tarot decks. For beginners, the Tarot de Marseille (French tradition) or the Rider-Waite-Smith (very intuitive illustrated images) are often recommended. The important thing is to choose a deck whose images resonate with you.

To protect and transport your deck, a velvet pouch or a dedicated storage box is ideal. Not only does it protect your cards, but it also creates a sacred space for your practice.

How to prepare your space for a reading

Before starting a reading, it's important to create an atmosphere conducive to concentration and introspection:

• Purify your space — light an incense stick or use an incense burner to clear the energy of the room
• Create a calm ambiance — soft lighting, a salt lamp, or a candle can help you get into the right state of mind
• Center yourself — take a few deep breaths before touching your cards
• Formulate an intention — clearly think about the question you want to ask

First readings for beginners

The 1-card reading

This is the perfect reading to start with. Every morning, shuffle your deck while thinking about your day and draw a single card. Observe the image, note what it evokes for you, and keep that in mind throughout the day.

The 3-card reading

This classic spread works with three positions:

• Card 1 — The past
• Card 2 — The present
• Card 3 — The future or advice

The Celtic Cross

This 10-card spread is more advanced but very comprehensive. Try it once you feel comfortable with 3-card readings.

How to interpret the cards?

• Trust your intuition — before looking it up in a book, note what the image spontaneously inspires in you
• Keep a tarot journal — record each reading and your impressions
• Learn progressively — start with the Major Arcana before the Minor Arcana
• Consider the context — the same card can have very different meanings depending on its position

Essential Major Arcana

• The Fool (0) — New beginnings, spontaneity
• The Moon (XVIII) — Illusions, unconscious, dreams
• The Sun (XIX) — Joy, success, clarity
• The World (XXI) — Accomplishment, completeness

Tips for progressing

• Practice regularly — even 5 minutes a day makes a big difference
• Keep a tarot journal to record your readings and observe patterns
• Join online communities of tarot enthusiasts

Tarot is a journey, not a destination. Each reading is an opportunity to learn more about yourself. Take your time, follow your intuition, and most importantly—have fun!

At Serenya, you'll find everything you need to start your practice: storage boxes, velvet pouches, esoteric journals, and much more.