Exploration and Reflection Through Tarot: Prompting the Story Within Ourselves

A Tarot reading may appear occult to some—a foray into the realm of fortune telling, mystic readings of the past, and explanations of energies. The deck itself, original and variants, is reflection of the human experience. Each card explores an aspect of our nature, from the representation of intuition and creativity in the Queen of Wands to the traditions, order, and learning of the Hierophant. In coaching change, we can use these cards to help people reflect on shadowed aspects themselves that may have not seen the light of conscious consideration in some time.

 The self-selection of taking part in drawing a card is the first step of openness to reflection. This is a critical juncture in change as we recognize the need for a new approach to adjusting our mindset and behaviors. With the drawing of a card we express a willingness to look at something, in fact, anything—the world of possibilities lies within the deck. Using this momentum, some knowledge of the significance of cards, and reflective questioning, we can explore who we are, what we are going through, and what our hearts desire.

In the process of reflecting through Tarot, we return to the narratives we create. We tell stories of significance to our current challenges, opportunities, pains, and joys. Through engaged discussion and guided self-exploration we can find in ourselves calls to action, appreciation for experiences, and a sense of understanding.

A Tarot deck can offer opportunities for mindfulness, journaling, identifying personal blocks, identifying areas for gratitude, and help setting intention. Jessica Dore’s “Tarot for Change” explores the use of Tarot to examine the self, while taking advantage of her vast experience and knowledge. If you are interested in the potential for self-exploration, find yourself a deck or use online resources to draw a card. Find a coach, a guide, or a reflective moment to examine the significance of that card to your personal story.

If you have a deck (virtual or physical), whether for spiritual or recreational purposes, draw a card, look into its intended meaning and ask yourself:

“What personal narrative emerges for you when you draw this card, and how does it relate to your current life journey?”That’s a start. In order to get anywhere, we begin with a start.