To read tarot cards, follow these key steps:
1. Choose Your Deck
Start with a classic deck like the Rider-Waite, which has rich, descriptive imagery that helps in interpretation
2. Get Familiar with the Cards
- Study the images and symbols on each card rather than just memorizing keywords
- Draw one card daily to meditate on its meaning and gradually build your understanding
- Use resources like card meaning lists or apps with quizzes to deepen your knowledge
3. Prepare for a Reading
- Have a clear, open-ended question in mind (e.g., "What do I need to know about...?" or "How can I move past...?")
- Shuffle the deck using any method that feels right to you (overhand shuffle, cutting, or spreading cards)
4. Draw Cards
- Pull cards from the deck by cutting or fanning and select the card(s) that draw your attention
- You can do a simple one-card reading or use spreads like a three-card spread (past, present, future) or the Celtic Cross for more depth
5. Lay Out and Interpret Cards
- Place the cards face down in your chosen spread, then turn them over to observe the images, symbols, and your intuitive feelings
- Interpret each card individually and also consider how they relate to each other and the overall reading
- Pay attention to card orientation (upright or reversed) and recurring suits or themes, which can indicate areas of focus or imbalance
6. Use Intuition Alongside Meanings
- Let your intuition guide you as much as the traditional meanings. The cards act as a tool to tap into your subconscious and provide insight rather than fixed answers
Summary of Basic Spreads for Beginners
- Three-Card Spread: Past, present, future or situation, action, outcome
- Four-Card Check-In: One Major Arcana card as a signifier and three Minor Arcana cards for physical, mental, and spiritual realms
- Celtic Cross: A more advanced spread covering various aspects of a situation
By practicing regularly, meditating on the cards, and trusting your intuition, you will develop your ability to read tarot cards effectively. This approach balances learning card meanings with personal insight, making tarot a powerful tool for self-reflection and guidance
