Tarot is a language, a way to concentrate and receive information more clearly so we can understand how different decisions will lead to different outcomes. You’re still your own decision-maker.

Let’s start with the basics: Here’s your guide to the tarot-card meanings. Learn how to use your tarot deck to read for yourself and others.

The guidebook demystifies tarot — and the cheery illustrations defang tarot. If you tend to look on the bright side of life (or want to start), this colorful illustrated deck’s for you.

For starters, you’ll want to get into the tarot basics before understanding the Empress card’s meaning. There are 78 different cards in a deck and each holds certain energies.