Tarot cards are primarily used for divination and self-reflection, serving as a tool for gaining insights into the past, present, and future.
The cards can tell a story, spark conversations, inspire ideas, and reveal new ways of thinking.
There are many types of tarot decks, each with its own aesthetic. Some feature goddesses or alternative symbolism, moving away from traditional representations like the Six of Cups and the High Priestess.
Despite these variations, all tarot decks navigate the same core meanings and carry messages open to interpretation.
Recent trends show that tarot has experienced a resurgence, especially among Gen Z. According to various media outlets, such as Women’s Health and The I Paper, the TikTok generation has revived an interest in tarot.
Spiritual practices like astrology and tarot are being embraced as sources of guidance in an increasingly chaotic world.
Ruth Charnock, a professional tarot reader from London, shares her perspective on this renewed interest in tarot.
She believes that the rise of tarot among younger generations is tied to a revival of 90s pop culture, particularly the witchy themes that permeated movies and TV shows of that era, such as Practical Magic (1998), Sabrina the Teenage Witch(1996), The Craft (1996), and Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997).
Ruth, who grew up in the 90s, explains how this fascination with witchcraft has resurfaced among today’s youth. She points out that many young people are embracing a 90s-inspired aesthetic, both in fashion and in spiritual practices like tarot.
As noted by City AM in December 2024, Gen Z’s interest in tarot and astrology is driven by a desire for control in a world that often feels unpredictable and unstable.
Ruth sees tarot as a sense of agency in these uncertain times. “I think tarot is brilliant, and it’s quite rebellious,” she says. “It’s a tradition of being outside of the mainstream.”
Lilly, another professional tarot card reader in London, also observes this growing trend. She said: “It has become quite a trend—especially in 2025—but I see this as a beautiful thing.”
Lilly Simpson, who began practicing tarot five years ago, reflects on how young people seek reassurance and guidance through readings.
She believes that while intuition is stronger when we are younger, life’s challenges can diminish our connection to our inner voice, making tarot especially valuable for young people searching for clarity.
Despite its growing popularity, it’s important to understand that tarot is not fortune telling.
Tarot card readers are not psychic; rather, the practice is about connecting with one’s intuition and inner wisdom. It offers guidance, helping individuals navigate difficult situations.
Niamh Brownhill, a 23-year-old tarot reader in training, emphasises the importance of understanding tarot’s limitations. She explained: “I always tell people it is not therapy; it’s guidance—it won’t heal your trauma.”
While tarot can offer insight into a situation, it is not a replacement for deeper therapeutic work. Niamh advises those new to tarot not to expect it to “save your life.”
The cards can help uncover blockages and provide guidance, but they cannot address deep-rooted emotional issues.
Niamh explains that tarot offers “tough love” by revealing truths that people might not want to hear. Despite the sometimes difficult messages, she believes that tarot provides comfort.
She said: “I think because the future is so uncertain and so scary, having answers of what we could expect and what we can do to help can make our lives better.”
Tarot offers a sense of direction and reassurance, especially when the future feels overwhelming.
Tarot is also a mindful practice that allows individuals to connect with the world around them. However, the energy of the tarot cards is influenced by the environment.
If negative energy is present, the messages from the cards may not be accurate. Niamh notes that the cards can reflect when a person is neglecting self-care or not listening to their inner wisdom.
Ruth also agrees that tarot has therapeutic qualities. She said: “It is therapeutic and it’s about feelings.”
She has noticed that many of her Gen Z clients use tarot to express emotions and discuss experiences they might otherwise find difficult to articulate.
For those who struggle with verbalising their feelings, tarot offers an alternative form of expression.
Ruth advises those new to tarot to approach the practice as a tool for self-reflection. She explained: “It’s like a journal of your life, but with tarot cards woven into it.”
This journaling approach helps individuals track their personal growth and reflect on their experiences over time.
Lilly believes that tarot can be especially beneficial for young people, particularly those around 14 or 15 years old, as they start to understand themselves and their place in the world.
She emphasises that there are different types of tarot readings: one that focuses on breaking down a current situation and another that delves deeper into inner healing and spiritual guidance.
In summary, tarot is more than just a trend; it is a practice that offers young people a way to connect with their intuition and seek guidance in uncertain times.
While it is not a solution to all of life’s problems, tarot can provide valuable insights into personal challenges and help individuals navigate their emotions and decisions.
Whether through a reflection on the past, present, or future, tarot serves as a tool for self-discovery and spiritual growth, especially for those seeking meaning in a complex world.
Lilly said: “I hope that young people will approach tarot with curiosity, openness, and respect for its power.”
