Welcome to a behind-the-scenes look at how I, transformed my tarot practice into a methodical, creative, and deeply spiritual tool I use everyday. My tarot journal was born out of a desire to make sense of my readings and grow a more profound connection with the cards and my own sense of self. Today, I want to share how my journey can guide yours, whether you're a tarot novice or a seasoned reader looking to deepen your practice.
The Origins of My Tarot Practice
When I first began studying tarot, I had no clue how to track my progress or make sense of recurring cards to build my own in depth meanings. Despite years of education and teaching experience, I realized I have always lacked a supportive system for note-taking. I tried various methods and other journals, but everything felt habit trackery and I just could not fit in to any mold. No one can predict how much you need to write from one day to the next...no one seems to give you space to create your own understanding...and no one knows if you need to pull 1 or 3 cards tomorrow. Literally nothing fit.
My attempts to streamline my readings felt clunky and frustrating, and I knew I needed a better solution. So I started with a regular journal and gave each card a page, to grown definitions on and the back of the journal became my linear space for journaling. As I pulled a card (or 3) each day and notated my understanding, other features needed began to present themselves...I colored on the edge of the pages to help speed up my searches...And fast forward to now, and I’ve created a tarot journal that is intuitive, flexible, aaand...designed to support any unique journey...no matter how that takes shape from day to day.
Why Journaling Transformed My Tarot Practice
Tarot is an intricate dance between intuition and structure. The practice can feel overwhelming at times, especially when faced with 78 unique cards and countless possible combinations. Journaling became my lifeline...a way to organize my thoughts, reflect on past readings, and build a personal library of insights. I standby no 2 readers are the exact same...nor should they be...nor should their journals be limited to the same format.
The "Why" Behind My Tarot Journal
My tarot journal was designed to:
Simplify daily studies: I turned small, consistent efforts into a rich tapestry of knowledge and self-awareness.
Create a reflective timeline: By documenting each card’s appearance and its context, I could trace recurring patterns in my life.
Encourage customization: This journal is a tool to make your tarot practice uniquely yours.
As someone who thrives on organization and beauty, I poured my heart into crafting a journal that feels like a sacred space for exploration and creativity.
How My Tarot Journal Works
The Alchemy & Art Tarot Journal is more than just blank pages. It’s a thoughtfully designed tool that offers structure while leaving room for personalization. Here’s what makes it special:
1. Card Meanings in Bite-Sized Pieces
The journal includes a diverse collection of tarot card meanings, organized in digestible snippets. This makes it easy to reference during your readings without feeling bogged down by lengthy explanations.
2. Numerology and Suits Guide
Understanding the numerological and elemental characteristics of tarot cards is essential for creating connections between them. The journal includes my personal notes on numerology and the suits, making it easier to identify overarching themes in your readings.
3. Graph Paper for Creativity
Whether you prefer doodling, creating infographics, or jotting down keywords, the graph paper section caters to your unique note-taking style. This was a game-changer for me, as it allowed me to visualize my readings in new ways.
4. Free Space for Reflection
Each card has dedicated space for journaling your personal experiences and interpretations. This open format encourages deeper self-discovery while keeping your notes organized.
5. Color-Coded Dividers
Navigation is a breeze with color-coded edges that correspond to each suit and the major arcana. For example:
Wands = Fire = South = Red
Swords = Air = East = Yellow
Pentacles = Earth = North = Green
Cups = Water = West = Blue
These visual cues make it effortless to locate specific sections.
6. "Date Pulled" Feature
Documenting the dates you pull each card allows you to cross-reference its appearances in your life. Over time, this creates a powerful timeline of personal growth and recurring themes.
Building a Meaningful Practice
Starting a tarot journal can feel intimidating, especially if you’re new to the practice. But remember: tarot is a guidance system, not a rigid set of rules. Here’s how I recommend getting started:
1. Set Your Intentions
Before diving into your first reading, write a letter to yourself and Spirit. Note your intentions for your tarot practice and bless your journal with personalized energy. This simple ritual sets the tone for a meaningful journey.
2. Document Daily Pulls
Begin each day by pulling a card and jotting down your initial thoughts. Use the "date pulled" feature to create a clear log of your readings. Over time, you’ll notice patterns and gain deeper insights into your life.
3. Embrace Numerology and Suits
Once you’ve built a foundation, start incorporating numerology and suits into your interpretations. This added layer of understanding helps connect the dots between seemingly unrelated cards.
4. Reflect and Revisit
As weeks and months go by, revisit your past entries. Look for recurring cards and themes. For example, I once pulled The Star 27 times in six months. Reflecting on those entries allowed me to see how healing themes unfolded in my life, providing clarity and closure.
5. Make It Your Own
There’s no wrong way to use your tarot journal. Whether you use it for daily readings, creative musings, or even grocery lists (I see you!), the journal is a flexible tool designed to grow with you.
Why I Want to Share Tarot
Tarot has been a transformative force in my life. By documenting my journey, I’ve created a roadmap for personal growth and self-discovery. My hope is that this journal can do the same for you.
This practice is not about perfection; it’s about presence and authentic self discovery. Tarot invites us to be curious, to reflect, and to engage with Spirit in a way that feels authentic. Sharing my process through the Alchemy & Art Tarot Journal is my way of paying it forward. I hope you love this practice like I do.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
If you’re ready to take your tarot practice to the next level, shop The Alchemy & Art Tarot Journal today. For those looking to add a creative touch, check out our companion tarot stickers for journaling.
If you're new to tarot and need guidance, I do offer Tarot readings both online and in person. Let’s co-create a life steeped in magic and meaning together.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. May your tarot practice be a dance of curiosity, reflection, and Spirit. Happy journaling!
With love and excitement,
Erin Bright
Resources to Enrich Your Tarot Practice
"78 Degrees of Wisdom" by Rachel Pollack (absolute best fave deep book!!!)
Buy The Alchemy & Art Tarot Journal by Erin Bright on Amazon
Comments