He raised his right hand in a formal blessing to the acolytes gathered at his feet. In his role as a living channel between the heavens and the earth, he began his lesson for the day.

“To see the world in its full glory,” he began, his voice echoing against the stone walls, “you must first understand the value of mindfulness.”

He looked at their eager expressions and continued softly, “Experiencing mindfulness in everyday life is an essential step along the path to enlightenment. It is the acceptance of your place in the universe, exactly as you are in each moment. Practised consistently, its benefits are profound.”

One of the acolytes looked doubtful. “Teacher, I understand being mindful during meditation, but why must we concentrate while doing simple things?”

The Hierophant leaned forward. “Because the soul does not distinguish between a spiritual moment and a mundane chore. Mindfulness during a routine task is an opportunity for clarity and calm. When applied to an ordinary activity like folding laundry, it anchors you in the now. A dull chore, such as washing dishes, becomes genuinely fascinating when you pay attention to the warmth of the water, the rhythmic movements, and the subtle sound of the sponge as it wipes the plate.

“When you work, give the task your full devotion. Be like the craftsman in the Eight of Pentacles—so fully absorbed in the act of creation that the maker and the work become one. Even when the work is heavy, mindfulness has its place. Like the figure in the Ten of Wands, carry your load with awareness. Do not merely struggle under the weight; feel the strength in your legs and the sacred intention behind every step. And when the labour is done, become The Empress, embracing comfort, nurturing yourself, and allowing a deepening sense of peace to flow through you.

“When you become restless again, picture The Emperor upon his throne. See him with his spine straight and his hands motionless—mindful, yet unmoved by the chaos beyond his castle’s gates. To become still, he has mastered the art of focusing upon his breath. As he breathes in, breathing in is all he does. As he breathes out, breathing out is all he does. When the world feels loud, follow your breath to inner silence.

“Mindfulness is the practice of awareness that brings peace to whatever you are doing, wherever you are. It deepens your experience of the everyday world—and in doing so, transforms the ordinary into something truly extraordinary.”

With his lesson complete, the temple fell silent once more. The Hierophant withdrew into the shadows, leaving his acolytes to linger in the stillness, contemplating the words of their teacher, and vowing to move through the rest of their day with minfulness.

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The base is black tea, flavoured with fruit, however, the real draw is the packaging. So far, the series uses only four Major Arcana cards: The Wheel of Fortune, The Star, The Moon, and The Sun. It’s fascinating that they chose to link Tarot cards to their teas. Perhaps it’s because, like Tarot, the relaxing, uplifting ritual of having an afternoon cuppa invites us to pause and reflect on life.

I like how the four flavours align with their respective cards. The Sun is linked to Orange & Apricot, creating a blend that is bright, warm, and optimistic—a perfect flavour to express this card’s joy and vitality. The Star, the card of hope and serenity, is captured in the gentle, calming pairing of Apple & White Peach. The more complex cards also match up beautifully: The Wheel of Fortune, which symbolises cycles and destiny, features Mango & Peach, a dynamic, upbeat blend that could suggest a sudden, sweet turn of good fortune. Finally, The Moon, the card of intuition, dreams, and mystery, is represented by Lemon & Grapefruit. Perhaps this flavour was chosen because this slightly bitter citrus profile helps to awaken us to hidden truths.

While the artwork is clearly inspired by the classic Rider–Waite–Smith deck, it has been infused with the whimsical twist of bunnies and kittens among the traditional symbols. Even though I am not a tea drinker, I was tempted to purchase all four just for the packaging alone!

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Just a short walk from the Asakusabashi Metro station, the Tokyo Tarot Museum is small and intimate, and visits must be booked in advance. After stepping out of the lift on the sixth floor, we were greeted by a sign introducing Tarot as a path toward self-awareness. It ended with a heartfelt message for visitors: “It is our sincere hope that, whatever occurs in your life, each visit to the Tokyo Tarot Museum will reveal a ‘sign’ that helps you to trust your life’s meaning, and step forward on your journey.”

Once my wife and I had slipped off our shoes and into the provided house slippers, we were welcomed inside. The museum opened in 2021 and has already hosted more than 70,000 visitors — an impressive number for such a modest space. Its founder, Motoyasu Sato, created the museum as a place where Tarot lovers could gather and share their passion. The room is filled with original artwork, rare historic decks, and shelves of over 500 Tarot-related items available for purchase.

We wandered slowly through the displays, admiring first editions of A.E. Waite’s books and browsing an impressive collection of past and present decks. Friendly staff then offered us the opportunity to randomly draw (and keep) a card from two new decks. As we browsed catalogues of Tarot decks, a warm cup of Japanese tea appeared before us — a thoughtful gesture that perfectly matched the museum’s peaceful atmosphere.

A highlight of our visit came when Motoyasu Sato dropped in to introduce himself. He greeted us with genuine warmth and shared the museum’s origin story. He said that his father began importing Tarot cards around half a century ago and developed a close friendship with Stuart Kaplan of U.S. Games Systems. Their collaboration helped introduce Tarot to Japan — a legacy Mr Sato now carries forward with clear pride.

Just a five-minute stroll away, we found the museum’s sister business: a vegan Tarot-themed café. The space is a delight for Tarot readers, with every drink served on a coaster representing one of the Major Arcana. Shelves of books and sample decks invite visitors to linger, and on the walls are striking marble mosaics of the Aces. Another mosaic of the “Wheel of Fortune” card is described as symbolising “the cycle of life” and “the weaving of soul stories that transcend time.”

For anyone drawn to Tarot, the Tokyo Tarot Museum is well worth seeking out. It offers a serene escape from the city’s intensity and a chance to appreciate Tarot’s artistry and history in a unique way. And if you’re lucky, you might meet Motoyasu Sato and gain insight into Japan’s evolving Tarot culture. If not, another opportunity to meet him is coming— he will be attending the Western Australian Tarot Conference in 2026.

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The discussion of astrology leaned heavily on the familiar newspaper horoscope angle—a narrow take on a complex subject.
Still, I appreciated that the section on Tarot approached the topic with curiosity and respect, even if it stayed somewhat general in scope.

Titled Divination isn’t scientific, but can it ever be therapeutic?, the episode was hosted by Sana Qadar and featured Professor Susan Krauss Whitbourne (University of Massachusetts Amherst), psychotherapist and Tarot reader Ryan Findlay, and producer Shelby Traynor. Shelby, who has been reading Tarot throughout her twenties, described it as “a great way to reflect on things and set goals.” She explained, “For the most part, they’ll get you to reflect on your past, what it means for the present, and how that might apply in the future.” Despite Shelby’s apparent interest in Tarot for about a decade, she admitted she didn’t know the meaning of the cards and still had to refer to a book for an interpretation when she asked the host to pull a card from the deck. This took away some of the credibility from her role as an ‘expert’ on the subject.

Ryan Findlay observed that Tarot’s reputation is shifting. “I think in this generation of people who have more access to the Internet and different ways of using these tools, there’s a nice movement of looking at it as another form of self-inquiry.” While the episode didn’t delve deeply into Tarot’s history or symbolism, it was refreshing to hear it discussed as a constructive and introspective practice.

Ryan summed it up neatly near the end:
“Throughout the years, Tarot has just proven to me over and over again how valuable and useful and intriguing and entertaining it is as well.”

Shelby echoed his thoughts, saying that readings have helped her accept difficult truths, gain confidence in decisions, and find comfort through ritual. “They’ve been a method of inquiry and a form of self-care,” she noted.

Although the episode had its limitations, it was encouraging to hear Tarot discussed in such a thoughtful and balanced way. Even when mainstream media doesn’t get every detail right, episodes like this reveal its image is shifting from fortune-telling to meaningful self-reflection.

Click here to listen to the podcast or read the transcript.

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Have you ever had a Tarot reading that left you feeling helpless about your future? Maybe you’ve seen a card predicting financial troubles or relationship woes and thought, “Well, that’s it. Nothing I can do now.” If so, I’m here to tell you that there’s a powerful technique that can change the way you approach Tarot forever: Action Cards.

The Problem with Passive Tarot Readings

Traditional Tarot readings can sometimes feel like a glimpse into an unchangeable future. But life isn’t a predetermined path – it’s a journey we actively shape with our choices and actions. Tarot shouldn’t be about passively accepting fate but about gaining insights to make informed decisions.

Enter Action Cards: Your Tool for Change

I first learned about Action Cards from James Wanless, creator of the Voyager Tarot, at an International Tarot Conference in 1997. This concept revolutionised my approach to readings. Here’s how it works:

1. Identify the Issue: Do your regular spread and notice any concerning outcomes.
2. Clarify: Draw a card to understand the root cause of the problem.
3. Take Action: Draw an Action Card to reveal steps you can take to change the outcome.
4. Verify: Draw a Verification Card to check if your interpretation and planned action will lead to the desired result.

An Example in Action

Let’s say a spread shows financial difficulty in September (represented by the Five of Pentacles). Here’s how you might use Action Cards:

1. Clarification Card: The Chariot (possibly representing a car)
2. Action Card: Eight of Pentacles (suggests paying attention to details or repairs)
3. Interpretation: Get your car serviced soon to avoid a costly breakdown
4. Verification Card: Four of Pentacles (indicates financial stability if you take action)

By following this process, you’ve transformed a potentially stressful future into an opportunity for proactive problem-solving.

Beyond Problem-Solving

Action Cards aren’t just for averting adverse outcomes. Use them to:
– Understand what’s driving positive results in your readings
– Accelerate progress towards desired outcomes
– Gain clarity on the best path forward in any situation

Empower Your Tarot Practice

By incorporating Action Cards into your readings, you’re no longer a passive observer of your future. You become an active participant, using Tarot for personal growth and positive change. Remember, the future isn’t set in stone. With Action Cards, you can shape your destiny, one reading at a time. Try it yourself: Do a simple three-card spread, then draw an Action Card to see how you can influence your future!

 

 

 

 

 

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• Arcana: The two main divisions of the Tarot deck, Major Arcana and Minor Arcana. The word ‘arcana’ is Latin for ‘mysteries’ or ‘secrets’.
• Major Arcana: The 22 trump cards in a Tarot deck, each representing significant life themes or archetypes.
• Minor Arcana: The 56 suit cards in a Tarot deck are divided into four suits (usually Cups, Pentacles, Swords, and Wands), each with 14 cards representing aspects of daily life.
• Majors-Only Reading: A Tarot reading using only the Major Arcana cards, often focusing on significant life themes or spiritual growth.
• Court Cards: The face cards (Page, Knight, Queen, King) within the Minor Arcana represent personality types or specific individuals.
• Spread: A predetermined arrangement of Tarot cards for a reading, indicating the positions and meanings of each card.
• Elemental Dignities: The relationships and interactions between cards based on their elemental associations (fire, water, air, earth) in a spread.
• Querent: The person asking the question.
• Reversals: When Tarot cards appear upside-down in a spread, they are often interpreted as indicating blocked energy or the opposite of the card’s upright meaning.
• Significator: A card chosen to represent the querent (the person seeking the reading) in a Tarot spread.
• Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS): Refers to a specific Tarot deck designed by Arthur Edward Waite and illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith, which has become one of the most popular and widely used Tarot decks. This deck was published by the Rider Company in 1909.
• Quintessence: A supplementary card sometimes added to a Tarot spread, representing the overall energy or outcome of the reading.
• Pips: Another term for the numbered cards in the Minor Arcana.
• Scrying: A method of divination involving gazing at a reflective surface (such as a crystal ball) or the imagery of Tarot cards to gain insights or predictions.
• Shuffle: The process of mixing and randomising the Tarot deck before a reading to ensure an unbiased selection of cards.
• LWB (Little White Book): The small booklet often included with Tarot decks, providing basic interpretations and instructions for use.

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The Hierophant typically represents tradition, established institutions, and conventional wisdom. At first glance, this might seem to align with the “worship of ashes” part of Mahler’s quote — a blind adherence to the past. However, a deeper interpretation of the Hierophant aligns more closely with the “preservation of fire” aspect.

The Hierophant is often seen as a bridge between the divine and the earthly. His role is not just to maintain traditions but to keep their essence alive. This connects well with Mahler’s idea of preserving the “fire” of tradition — the spirit, wisdom, and core values that traditions embody, rather than just their outward forms.

In Tarot readings, The Hierophant can signify:
1. Spiritual guidance and wisdom.
2. Education and learning from established sources.
3. Finding meaning in traditional practices.

These interpretations echo Mahler’s sentiment. They suggest that tradition when approached thoughtfully, can be a source of ongoing inspiration and guidance rather than a rigid set of outdated rules.

The Hierophant is traditionally associated with the pope, which is the historical basis for the card. The three bars on the triple cross represent the integration of spirit, mind, and body in sacred teaching.

The Hierophant card is a rich metaphor for balancing tradition and innovation in your life. When you receive The Hierophant card in a reading, it’s an invitation to reflect on your relationship with tradition and established wisdom. This card challenges you to discern between empty rituals and meaningful practices. Don’t be a passive recipient of knowledge, but one who can translate timeless wisdom into relevant, contemporary insights. It suggests honouring the essence of what came before while adapting it to serve the present and future. It asks you: How can you keep the fire of traditions alive in a way that illuminates the path forward rather than simply clinging to the ashes of the past?

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Intuition is that niggling thought at the back of your mind while you are trying desperately to find the solution to a problem. It’s the hunch that turns out to be correct despite being the least likely possibility from a rational point of view.

“The only real valuable thing is intuition.” – Albert Einstein

Tarot readers use intuition when looking at the cards laid out before them in a spread. It’s those fleeting thoughts or feelings that gently move in and out of consciousness as they focus on the cards.

The first step towards embracing your intuition is acknowledging that information from your intuitive faculties is just as valid as data from your other senses. When you are doing a Tarot reading and an intuitive flash arrives at the forefront of your mind, don’t ignore it; let it come to the surface. Act on it. Let it loose. Don’t be afraid to give voice to your intuition.

Tarot Blessings,
Mister Tarot

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Before buying my first deck of Tarot cards, I used the Runes and made my first set of divination stones soon after. However, when I eventually tried Tarot, I discovered the depth of meaning that reading these cards could bring, and I left the stones on the shelf for a few decades. I found them again recently and enjoyed using them. I realised that making and reading these stones was an excellent way to tap into the subconscious mind and heighten intuition. Understanding the meaning of archetypal symbols and drawing upon your inner wisdom to find interpretations is one of the most exciting parts of a Tarot reading, and using these stones is an easy way to build this skill.

Here are other links between reading Tarot and the stones.

1. Tarot cards and fortune-telling stones are tools used for guidance and predictions about the future.
2. Both methods rely heavily on the practitioner’s intuition and interpretation.
3. Each embodies symbols of universal archetypes to convey meaning.
4. A solitary card or stone can be drawn for guidance.
5. Both methods can be used for introspection and personal growth, not just prediction.

The differences between these two disciplines are worth considering, too.

1. Tarot cards feature elaborate artwork and scenes, whereas stones have only one symbol inscribed.
2. Due to its imagery, Tarot allows for more nuanced interpretations, whereas stone readings tend to be more direct and concise.
3. Beginners can find Tarot’s 78 cards overwhelming, whereas using a set of stones is simple to learn.
4. Tarot has many different deck designs and artistic interpretations available. Stone sets rely on practitioners to create their own system.
5. Tarot cards are dealt into positions of a spread, but stones are cast onto a surface.

A choice between the two reading styles doesn’t have to be made.

Tarot and fortune-telling stones can be used together for a more comprehensive reading. Casting divination stones in conjunction with Tarot can enhance your effectiveness in several ways:

1. Drawing a stone before a Tarot reading can set an overall theme or energy for the session, guiding card interpretation.
2. Stones can provide quick, focused answers that complement the more detailed Tarot narratives, offering a multi-layered interpretation.
3. Drawing a stone can offer a fresh perspective if you feel stuck on a card’s meaning.
4. Using stones after a Tarot reading can provide a final ‘yes or no’ answer to the question.
5 Alternating between cards and stones can help you flex intuitive muscles, sharpening your psychic abilities.

My latest workshop, Create a Set of Fortune-Telling Stones, will focus on three areas. You will experience an innovative form of divination that shows how symbols influence your subconscious. You will then create your own set of fortune-telling stones. And you will have the opportunity to do readings about your future.

Click here to book into this transformational workshop that will open your mind to your psychic potential!

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It’s a metaphorical journey that represents the various stages of personal growth, self-discovery, and spiritual development that a person may undergo in their lifetime. The Fool is an archetype of pure spirit starting a new life cycle. On his journey, he progresses through the Major Arcana cards, encountering different stages, challenges, and awakenings that humanity experiences. The World card at the end represents cosmic integration and the completion of one cycle before beginning anew. This cyclical nature reflects perspectives on life as an ongoing, ever-renewing journey of growth. There are many well-known books and films that mirror the archetypal Fool’s Journey found in the Tarot. Here are some examples:

1. The Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum
Dorothy’s journey from Kansas to the Land of Oz and back again mirrors the Fool’s Journey, with her encounters representing different Tarot archetypes.

2. Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse
Siddhartha’s spiritual journey, which involves leaving his home to find enlightenment, follows the cyclical path of the Major Arcana.

3. The Way of the Peaceful Warrior by Dan Millman
The protagonist’s encounters with his spiritual guide Socrates reflect the lessons and archetypes in the Tarot’s Major Arcana.

4. The Matrix
Neo’s path from his ordinary world to becoming ‘The One’ can be seen as a Fool’s Journey, with each stage mirroring Tarot archetypes like The Magician, The Chariot, The Hanged Man, etc.

5. Star Wars
Luke Skywalker’s hero’s journey from naive farm boy to Jedi aligns with the Major Arcana’s symbolic path of spiritual awakening and growth into a higher version of oneself.

These stories involve characters undergoing transformative journeys that can be mapped onto the structure, symbols, and archetypes found in the 22 Major Arcana cards of the Tarot. Their narratives incorporate elements of awakening, struggle, rebirth, and self-realisation that are core to the esoteric Fool’s Journey.

After reading The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, I realised that this book followed The Fool’s well-worn path. Santiago is the hero of a quest for his Personal Legend, aligning with The Fool’s transformative journey of growth and enlightenment.

The story follows Santiago, a young Andalusian shepherd who has a recurring dream about a treasure waiting for him at the Egyptian pyramids. Early in the novel, an elderly man tells him to pursue his Personal Legend, which is the dream that will lead him to his life’s purpose. Inspired by the advice, Santiago begins a journey to Egypt, leaving behind his life as a shepherd. Along the way, he meets several mentors and learns important lessons about the nature of the universe and the significance of following one’s dreams. The Alchemist is a profound yet simple story about finding one’s destiny and understanding the essential wisdom of listening to one’s heart and the language of the universe.

Here is a brief list that links situations or characters in The Alchemist with all 22 Major Arcana cards of the Tarot:

0. The Fool – Santiago
Santiago is the shepherd boy who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and personal legend.

I. The Magician – The Alchemist
He possesses great knowledge and power and helps Santiago understand the language of the universe.

II. The High Priestess – The Gypsy Woman
She is intuitive and can read omens like sandgrouse’s flight patterns.

III. The Empress – Fatima
This woman represents sensuality and nurturing love.

IV. The Emperor – The Crystal Merchant
An authority figure representing wealth, ambition and worldly power.

V. The Hierophant – Melchizedek
The wise spiritual mentor initiating Santiago’s journey.

VI. The Lovers – Lilah
Lilah is the woman Santiago encounters in the oasis. They develop a deep connection and contemplate a life together.

VII. The Chariot – Santiago’s Determination
Santiago’s willpower and determination to push forward on his quest is represented by The Chariot.

VIII. Strength – Santiago’s Perseverance
His inner strength to overcome obstacles and doubts.

IX. The Hermit – The Englishman
This man spent years living alone in the desert, dedicating his life to studying alchemy and understanding the Soul of the World. Like The Hermit, the Englishman was on a solitary quest for higher knowledge and illumination.

X. Wheel of Fortune – The Emerald Tablet
The Emerald Tablet is a foundational text for alchemy, a practice deeply concerned with transformation and cyclical processes. It has a thematic connection to the Wheel of Fortune card as it reinforces the concepts of change, hidden knowledge, and the cyclical nature of this story.

XI. Justice – The Concept of the Balance
The knowledge of justice and balance that Santiago learns during his encounters with the tribal chieftain and the crystal merchant.

XII. The Hanged Man – Santiago’s Perspective Shifts
Santiago’s moments of surrender and sacrifice as he learns to trust in the process and let go of his attachments.

XIII. Death – Shedding the Past
Santiago leaves his old shepherd life behind for rebirth.

XIV. Temperance – Unity of Opposites
The alchemical goal of harmonising polarities.

XV. The Devil – Temptation
The crystal merchant’s shop represents Santiago’s encounter with materialism and worldly temptations.

XVI. The Tower – Upheaval and Revelation
The shattering of Santiago’s preconceived notions.

XVII. The Star – Destiny
The realisation of Santiago’s Personal Legend and the guiding light that leads him towards his destiny.

XVIII. The Moon – Phases and Transition
The cycles of change and transition Santiago undergoes.

XIX. The Sun – Enlightenment
The warmth and light of Santiago’s self-realisation.

XX. Judgement – The Soul’s Rebirth
Santiago’s transformation and self-realisation as he becomes aware of his purpose and embraces his true calling.

XXI. The World – The Culmination
Santiago’s achievement of spiritual enlightenment and oneness with the universe symbolises completion and fulfilment. It represents the entire journey coming full circle.

Paulo Coelho’s ‘The Alchemist’ and Tarot’s Major Arcana share thematic connections about self-discovery, transformation, intuition, and fulfilment. Both realms’ archetypal characters and symbolic representations resonate deeply with universal truths and spiritual insights. Exploring these interconnections enriches our understanding of ‘The Alchemist’ and the Tarot, offering us a broader perspective on our personal journeys.

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