Journaling and tarot are both powerful tools for self-reflection, but when used together, they can unlock an even deeper understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and personal growth. Whether you’re looking for clarity, emotional release, or a way to track patterns over time, combining tarot with journaling can offer profound insights. Here’s how to make the most of this practice.
Why Combine Tarot and Journaling?
Tarot readings provide symbolic imagery and intuitive messages, but our minds often process these insights more fully when we write them down. Journaling helps to:
Clarify your thoughts after a reading
Recognize emotional and behavioral patterns
Deepen your connection with your intuition
Track personal growth over time
If you’ve ever pulled a tarot card and struggled to fully grasp its meaning, journaling can help you unravel its message in a way that resonates with your current situation.
How to Start a Tarot Journaling Practice
Getting started is simple. You only need a tarot deck and a journal (physical or digital). Follow these steps to create a meaningful journaling practice:
1. Set Your Intention
Before drawing any cards, take a moment to focus on what you’d like to explore. Your intention could be as broad as gaining clarity on your emotions or as specific as seeking guidance on a particular issue.
2. Choose a Tarot Spread
Your journaling can be based on a simple one-card draw or a more detailed spread. Here are some ideas:
Daily Draw: Pull one card in the morning or evening and reflect on its message.
Three-Card Spread: Use the Past-Present-Future layout or Mind-Body-Spirit for deeper exploration.
Custom Prompts: Ask specific questions such as “What do I need to release?” or “How can I align with my purpose?”
3. Write About Your Initial Impressions
Before looking up card meanings, jot down your first impressions. What emotions arise? What symbols stand out? How do you feel about the card’s energy? This process strengthens your intuitive reading skills.
4. Reflect on the Meaning
Once you’ve recorded your gut reaction, explore the traditional meanings of the card. Consider:
How does this meaning relate to your current life situation?
Does this card confirm something you already sensed, or does it challenge your perspective?
What action steps can you take based on this insight?
5. Use Journaling Prompts
If you’re unsure where to start, these prompts can guide your reflections:
What does this card reveal about my current emotional state?
What hidden messages might this card be trying to communicate?
How can I apply this card’s wisdom to my life today?
What recurring themes or cards have I noticed in my readings?
6. Track Patterns Over Time
Review past entries regularly to spot recurring cards or themes. Are certain cards appearing when you face particular challenges? Are there patterns in your emotional responses? Recognizing these can help you make more informed decisions and personal breakthroughs.
7. Close with Gratitude or an Affirmation
End your journaling session by noting something you’re grateful for or writing an affirmation inspired by your reading. For example, if you pulled The Strength card, you might write: “I trust my inner resilience to guide me through challenges.”
Making It a Habit
To integrate tarot journaling into your routine, try:
Setting aside 5–10 minutes daily or weekly for journaling.
Keeping your deck and journal together for easy access.
Experimenting with different spreads and prompts to keep things fresh.
Final Thoughts
Journaling with tarot isn’t about predicting the future—it’s about deepening self-awareness and making sense of your inner world. Whether you use it for daily insights or occasional deep dives, this practice can help you connect with yourself in a way that is both reflective and empowering.
Have you tried tarot journaling? What insights has it brought you? Share your experiences in the comments!
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