Tarot

Tarot is something that has become extremely popular over recent years. I personally think that the increase in popularity has a lot to do with people's attitude towards the Tarot Cards. Many people used to (and still do to some extent) think that tarot cards are a negative thing and "should not be dabbled with".

From a personal point of view, having both used and had an interest in the tarot cards over the years, I would have to disagree with this, as I think that, in my opinion, as long as you have a little knowledge of the cards to start with, you should treat them with respect and caution.

• But always remember, as with any tool of divination, you are in control.

The Tarot Deck consists of seventy-eight cards, this is split into two sections a major arcana and a minor arcana.

22 cards forming the major arcana - Each card has a symbol or design and are also numbered.

The minor arcana is the bulk of the pack, which consists of four sets of 14 cards each. These are the sets.

Cups ~ These represent emotional issues, both good and bad, family matters, love and romance in all it's positive and negative forms, religious or spiritual tendencies. These are associated with the element WATER.

Wands/Batons ~ These represent communication, energy, social issues, enthusiasm, hard work, progress, advancement and ambition. These are associated with the element FIRE (some packs AIR).

Pentacles/Coins/Discs ~ These represent material world, finance, business transactions and the effect these things have on our lives, resourcefulness and practicality. These are associated with the element EARTH.

Swords ~ These represent the more serious and difficult issues that we face in life, movement for good or bad, mind, strife, aggression, courage, dealing with or overcoming issues. These are associated with the element AIR (some packs FIRE)