Written by Emma Liston, Energy Healer
Emma Liston is best known for her "magical" ability that goes beyond traditional energy healing. As the heart of Being-Magic, she works with both humans and animals, though animals are her true passion. Calling herself an “animal kingdom guardian,” she sees her work as a life purpose, using her unique gifts to bring comfort to those she helps.
Tarot cards often evoke strong reactions, either drawing people in or leaving them hesitant. However, I view tarot not as a tool for fortune-telling but as a powerful means of exploring the subconscious and guiding us on our life journey. Over time, I’ve found that tarot readings can be healing sessions in themselves, particularly as we navigate these uncertain times. Tarot offers valuable insights into where we stand in life and uncovers hidden aspects of ourselves, making it especially useful for working with our concealed parts, often referred to as “the shadow.” In this article, I’ll delve into these concepts and share how to make the most of this transformative tool.
What are the origins of tarot?
The tarot is believed to have originated as a medieval card game in Italy during the late 1300s, serving as the precursor to modern playing cards. In fact, in some parts of Europe, tarot cards are still used purely for card games. What distinguishes tarot from regular playing cards is the inclusion of "trump cards" (major arcana), along with the standard suit cards (minor arcana). The major arcana consists of twenty-two cards, while the minor arcana contains four suits, each with fourteen cards (Ace to Ten, plus four court cards) corresponding to the four classical elements (earth, air, fire, and water). Over time, the tarot has evolved into a powerful tool for divination, self-discovery, therapy, and fortune-telling.
What are the trump cards/major arcana?
The major arcana consists of twenty-two cards, each rich with universal symbolism. Together, they tell a story that mirrors our journey through life, beginning with (0) The Fool and culminating with (21) The World. The Fool represents our innocent entry into the world, full of potential and curiosity, while The World symbolises the completion of our journey, having learned our lessons and coming full circle. The major arcana highlights key life or soul lessons, whereas the minor arcana typically represents more day-to-day events and situations. The word “arcana” itself means “secret” or “hidden knowledge,” reflecting the deeper insights these cards offer.
How does the tarot work as a healer?
The tarot serves as a mirror to bring what is hidden in our subconscious to the surface. While some cards may initially seem negative, they often reveal areas where growth occurs, especially through discomfort and challenge. The phrase “you cannot grow in a comfort zone” captures this idea, emphasising that evolution and expansion often arise from stepping into the unknown. Tarot acts as a reflection of our inner archetypes (e.g., The Fool, The Moon, The Devil) and how they represent different aspects of the human experience, including those hidden deep within us.
Another layer of the tarot is its connection to numerology and astrology, which can provide additional insights. For instance, by calculating your current numerological year and matching it with a corresponding major arcana card (and its astrological influence), you can gain insight into the lessons that may be emerging for you within a current year. Looking back at significant years, you may recognise recurring themes that offer clarity on your personal journey.
The tarot can also be linked to our energy centres (chakras), which represent different levels of consciousness. Examining the tarot through this lens can act as a "blueprint" of one’s spiritual journey, providing deeper clarity and guidance along the way.
What exactly is ‘shadow work’?
As mentioned above, the hidden parts of ourselves are known as “the shadow.” Shadow work simply means working with our shadow side, which involves acknowledging these hidden or suppressed parts of ourselves, thereby allowing us to reclaim our power, heal old wounds, and move toward wholeness. It’s important to remember that shadow work is an ongoing journey, much like healing itself, and not a quick fix. Integrating the shadow isn’t about eliminating these hidden aspects but learning to live in harmony with them. By doing this inner work, we come to realise that the shadow isn’t something to be ashamed of; rather, it’s a part of us that requires love, attention, and understanding. This process can be deeply transformative, helping us break unconscious patterns and create new, conscious habits.
Once we uncover these shadow aspects, the next step is integration, where true healing takes place. Shadow work doesn’t end with awareness; it requires active engagement and continual self-reflection to shift our consciousness. Tarot provides insight into these patterns while offering the tools to transform them.
Why is healing the shadow important?
It’s believed that our subconscious mind controls the largest part of who we are, while our conscious mind accounts for the small remainder. Most of our traumas and deep-rooted programs are stored in the subconscious, many of which were formed in early childhood. This is why we can be triggered by certain events, situations, or people, often reacting unconsciously without understanding the deeper cause. When we heal ourselves, this process ripples into the collective consciousness, contributing to the healing of humanity as a whole.
Carl Jung once said, “How can I be substantial if I do not cast a shadow? I must have a dark side also if I am to be whole.” This powerful quote reminds us that our shadow is not something to fear; it’s an essential part of us. It’s essentially our ‘hidden light.’ By healing, loving, and integrating the shadow, one can restore wholeness. As you embark on this journey, you’ll find that understanding yourself more deeply empowers you to take charge of your life.
I can’t stress enough that shadow work can be extremely challenging to do alone, depending on your past experiences and traumas. Therefore, it’s wise to consider working with someone such as a coach, therapist, mentor, or tarot reader if you’re new to this process until you’re in a place where you are comfortable working independently.
Ways in which you can start working with the tarot
Knowing how to use the tarot and the types of questions to ask is essential as you're seeking insights to contemplate and reflect upon. This can be facilitated by a tarot reader, or if you’re comfortable working independently, here are some ways you can begin using the tarot to guide your healing journey:
If you’re completely new to tarot
If you're a beginner, you can start by picking up a tarot book to learn the meanings of the cards or explore the many online resources available. A great place to begin is Biddy Tarot, which offers courses, free resources, and weekly newsletters. While knowing the basic meanings of the cards is helpful, your personal interpretation is what will truly make the reading yours. The imagery on the cards will speak to you in different ways each time, and you may even notice new details you haven’t seen before. What stands out in a card during a particular reading is what gives tarot its power and relevance for you at that precise moment.
Choose your deck
If you haven’t chosen a deck yet, be aware that there are a staggering amount of them, so take your time finding one that resonates with you. Each deck has its own unique feel and imagery. I recommend browsing different decks online to get a sense of what appeals to you, whether it’s animals, mystical themes, artistic designs, or the classic Rider Waite deck. Once you've selected your deck, spend time connecting with it. I sleep with any new deck under my pillow for a few nights to allow my energy to infuse it! Set the intention that it will guide you on your journey and help clarify any areas of your life that you are seeking assistance with.
Creating sacred space and setting aside time
Creating a sacred space is essential for this work, as you're dedicating time and energy to your own growth. Remember, you are the most important person in your life - you can only support others when your own ‘cup is full.’ Set aside uninterrupted time, free from distractions. The environment is just as important, so choose a space where you feel safe and at ease. Surround yourself with calming elements: light candles, burn incense, arrange crystals, or play soft music, whatever helps you create a peaceful sanctuary.
It can also be helpful to have a journal or some paper and pens nearby to make notes. Whether you keep it simple or get creative, having a space to jot down your thoughts adds depth to the process. Take a few minutes to breathe deeply, clearing your mind of any distractions. Grounding yourself is also key to feeling safe and present in your body, so take time to centre yourself before you begin.
Crafting questions
Take a few moments to centre yourself with deep breaths and tune in to your inner awareness. Notice what comes up as you reflect on what you'd like to ask. When crafting your questions, aim for those that uncover unconscious fears, limiting beliefs, or hidden desires. It's best to avoid yes/no questions, as they don't offer the depth you're seeking. Some examples of powerful questions could include:
What part of myself am I avoiding?
What fear is holding me back?
What is my shadow aspect?
What do I need to learn from this?
What unconscious beliefs are shaping my current reality?
What action can I take to integrate it?
Choosing a spread or going with the flow
There are many tarot ‘spreads' to choose from a spread meaning the layout, number of cards you are using, and sometimes even specific questions. Start with a simple spread that uses one to three cards, focusing on your question as you shuffle and select your cards. Keeping your attention and intention clear during this process is essential. If you don’t have a specific spread in mind, simply pull cards until it feels right. There’s no wrong way to approach this: trust your intuition to guide you.
Interpreting the cards
The tarot speaks to you through symbolism, and you may find memories or emotions surfacing as the cards unlock deeper parts of your psyche. The symbols, imagery, and stories in the cards are tools for accessing these hidden layers. Even if the message you receive differs from the traditional meaning of the tarot card or the accompanying guidebook in your deck, trust what resonates. Allowing these insights to flow through you is where the transformation begins.
The major arcana represents archetypes and life themes, often pointing to soul lessons or significant life events. In contrast, the minor arcana reflects emotional (Cups), material (Pentacles), intellectual (Swords), and energetic (Wands) aspects of the self. Sometimes, the answer can be found in the elements of the cards, like Cups, which represent water and can point to emotional healing, or The Devil, which might highlight patterns of self-sabotage or addiction. Trust your intuition as it guides you; the first impressions you have are often the most powerful.
Putting it all together with compassion
When it comes to integrating the shadow, the process is about acceptance rather than rejection. Shadow work is not about purging or eradicating the parts of ourselves we deem “negative” but learning to acknowledge, embrace, and transform them. For example, a card like the moon may point to confusion, illusion, or deeply buried fears. Instead of fearing these cards, shadow work through tarot encourages us to see these as invitations to understand, heal, and grow.
A key component of shadow work is developing self-compassion. Tarot teaches us to be kind to ourselves as we confront difficult emotions and patterns. When the cards reveal something painful or hidden, take a moment to pause and show yourself compassion. Shadow work is not about criticising yourself but about understanding the wounds beneath the surface so that you can heal.
Final notes
Integrating the shadow is about acceptance, not rejection. Shadow work isn’t about purging or eliminating parts of ourselves we label as “negative” but about learning to acknowledge, embrace, and transform them. For instance, a card like The Moon might represent confusion, illusion, or deep-seated fears. Instead of fearing these cards, shadow work through tarot invites us to view them as opportunities to heal and grow.
A crucial aspect of shadow work is developing self-compassion. Tarot teaches us to approach ourselves with kindness as we confront challenging emotions and patterns. When the cards reveal something painful or hidden, take a moment to pause and offer yourself compassion. Shadowwork is not about self-criticism but about understanding the wounds beneath the surface so you can begin the healing process.
Ask the tarot for insights today
For me, tarot readings have always been more like mini-healing or therapy sessions. Clients often find that because they’re not expecting a traditional therapy experience, they are more open and vulnerable during a reading, allowing for deeper insights to emerge. I believe one of the main reasons for this is that there is less resistance from the ego because it’s not trying to protect us from our unknown parts. Rather, it’s more open and curious to going on this journey, and thus, it allows more information to flow from the subconscious into the conscious.
If you're unsure of where to begin, feel free to book a call today, and let’s explore whether you’d benefit from some support or if you’d be good to start on your own. If you’ve already started doing your inner work and prefer to continue working solo, I invite you to check out this gorgeous annual workbook, which allows you to explore yourself in new ways with your tarot deck by your side.
Read more from Emma Liston
Emma Liston, Energy Healer
Emma Liston is a passionate advocate for animals, combining healing and interspecies communication to create meaningful change. Together with her global community, she facilitates worldwide healing events for animals affected by war, natural disasters, and other crises. Her unwavering belief in the magic that surrounds us, drives her to inspire a global shift in the way we care for all living beings—one animal, one human, and one act of kindness at a time.
