What to do with old tarot cards?
Tarot cards, talismans, or other magical objects are often connected with the personal energy of their owner. If they become unnecessary or damaged, disposing of them requires an appropriate approach to prevent unwanted energy transfer. In this article, we discuss how best to handle such items in order to ensure safety and respect for the magical tradition.
Why shouldn’t we just throw magical objects away?
Magical objects are believed to have the ability to store the energy of their user. Throwing them in the trash may result in unforeseen consequences, such as the possibility of their energy being exploited by third parties. Therefore, it is essential to deactivate the object and dispose of it in a controlled manner.
How to safely dispose of tarot cards?
1. Deactivating the cards' energy
To disconnect your energy from the cards:
- Hold the cards in your hand and thank them for their service. Expressing gratitude is an important step in the cleansing process.
- Place the cards in a bowl of lightly salted water for several hours. Salt is a strong energetic cleanser.
- After removing the cards, pass them over the flame of a white candle nine times clockwise.
2. Entrusting them to the elements
Magical objects are best handed over to one of the four elements:
- Fire: Burning is a traditional method for destroying tarot cards. Ensure that the process takes place in a safe location, such as a bonfire or a heat-resistant container.
- Earth: Burying the cards in the ground in a secluded area is another effective method.
- Water: Throw the cards into a natural, flowing body of water, like a river or stream.
- Air: Crumble the cards and scatter them in the wind, releasing their energy to the air.
How to repurpose incomplete cards?
If you do not wish to completely dispose of the old tarot cards, you can give them new life:
- Amulets: Select cards with positive meanings, such as the Ace of Pentacles or The Star, and carry them in your wallet or frame them as a talisman.
- Decorations: Cards with a particular aesthetic or significance, for example, The Empress or The Sun, can be used to decorate your home.
- Bookmarks: Incomplete cards work perfectly as bookmarks for books.
- Gifts: Cleansed cards can be given to friends who are interested in magic or divination.
What to do with other magical objects?
1. Stones and amulets
- Bury them in the earth or place them in running water so that their energy is naturally dispersed.
2. Talismans and runes
- Wooden runes can be burned, while stone ones should be buried in the ground. You can also transform them into decorative protective images and hang them above doorways.
3. Herbs and paper spells
- Herbs and paper elements from spells can be burned or crumbled and scattered in the wind.
4. Ritual candles
- Candle remnants are usually discarded after rituals, but you can burn them completely to end their energy cycle.
How to handle complete, but unwanted items?
If the item is still in good condition but you no longer wish to keep it:
- Cleansing: Perform a cleansing process using sea salt or incense.
- Donation: Give the item to someone who may need it. Gifts are believed to have more power than purchased items.
- Sale: Cleansed items can be sold, for example, on online platforms dedicated to esotericism.
Summary
Disposing of magical objects, such as tarot cards, requires caution and respect for the energy they carry. The key is proper cleansing of the item and delivering it in a controlled manner – to the elements, to other people, or through energetic recycling. By following these practices, you avoid undesirable consequences and maintain energetic balance in your surroundings.
