How to Use the Minor Arcana for Everyday Guidance

The Minor Arcana might not get as much spotlight as the Major Arcana in a tarot deck, but it’s packed with everyday wisdom. While the Major Arcana dives into big life themes and spiritual lessons, the 56 cards of the Minor Arcana are all about our daily feelings, actions, and experiences. Getting to know these cards can help you handle the little moments in life with more insight and ease.
There are four suits in the Minor Arcana—Cups, Wands, Swords, and Pentacles—and each one relates to a different area of everyday life. Cups are all about emotions and relationships, Wands represent passion and creativity, Swords highlight thoughts and communication, and Pentacles deal with the physical side of things, like work and finances. Each suit has its own vibe, so if you notice a suit showing up a lot in your readings, it could be pointing you toward something that needs your attention.
If you’re just starting out, an easy way to work with the Minor Arcana is to draw one card each morning. Ask what the day has in store, or focus on a question you have in mind. If you pull a Cups card, it might be a nudge to check in on your feelings or reach out to a friend. A Pentacles card, on the other hand, might be hinting at some practical steps you can take.
Another way to use the Minor Arcana is by asking specific, real-life questions. Stuck on a decision? A Swords card could give you some mental clarity, helping you think things through. Looking for a spark of creativity? Wands cards might bring you just the inspiration you need.
You don’t have to be a tarot expert to make the Minor Arcana a part of your routine—just a little curiosity and openness go a long way. Over time, these cards can become like good friends, giving you a fresh perspective on everyday ups and downs and helping you face life’s little moments with a bit more joy and awareness.