How to Give a Tarot Card Reading: A Comprehensive Guide

Tarot card reading is an ancient practice that has been used for centuries to gain insight into the past, present, and future. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience with tarot, learning how to give a tarot card reading can be an empowering and enlightening process. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to effectively conduct a tarot card reading.

1. Choose the Right Tarot Deck

The first step in giving a tarot card reading is to choose the right tarot deck for you. There are various tarot decks available, each with its own symbolism and energy. Take your time to explore different decks and select one that resonates with you. Some popular decks include the Rider-Waite-Smith deck, the Thoth deck, and the Marseille deck.

2. Familiarize Yourself with the Tarot Deck

Once you’ve chosen your tarot deck, take the time to familiarize yourself with the cards and their meanings. Begin by studying the major arcana, the 22 trump cards that represent major life events and lessons. Then, move on to the minor arcana, which is divided into four suits: wands, cups, swords, and pentacles. Learn the meanings of each card in the deck and the symbolism associated with them.

3. Create a Sacred Space

Before you start a tarot card reading, it’s important to create a sacred space that is conducive to focused and intuitive thinking. Clear any clutter from your reading area and consider lighting a candle or burning some incense to set a calming ambiance. You may also want to incorporate crystals, meditation, or other rituals that feel significant to you.

4. Ground and Center Yourself

Grounding and centering yourself is a vital step in preparing for a tarot card reading. Take a few moments to close your eyes, take deep breaths, and focus on your connection to the earth. Visualize roots extending from your feet into the ground, grounding your energy and creating a sense of stability. Center your thoughts and emotions, allowing any distractions to melt away.

5. Shuffle and Clear the Deck

Once you are grounded and centered, shuffle the tarot deck thoroughly while focusing on your question or the intention behind the reading. This helps infuse your energy into the cards. After shuffling, clear the deck by holding it in your hands and envisioning a white light purifying the cards, releasing any stagnant or negative energy.

6. Intuitively Select the Cards

When giving a tarot card reading, you have the option to either let the querent (the person receiving the reading) shuffle and select the cards or to intuitively select the cards yourself. If the querent chooses the cards, instruct them to focus on their question or intention while shuffling. When they feel ready, have them select a specific number of cards based on the reading spread you are using.

If you prefer to intuitively select the cards, ask the querent to share their question or intention with you. Listen attentively and then use your intuition to choose the cards that feel most relevant to the situation. Trust your instincts and remember that the cards will communicate the messages needed for the reading.

7. Lay Out the Tarot Spread

Next, lay out the tarot spread. There are several popular spreads you can choose from, such as the three-card spread, the Celtic Cross spread, or the 10-card spread. Each spread serves a different purpose and provides a unique perspective on the question or situation. Take the time to learn different spreads and experiment with them to see which ones resonate with you.

8. Interpret the Tarot Cards

Once the cards are laid out, it’s time to interpret their meanings. Start by examining each card individually, paying attention to the symbolism and imagery. Consider how the card’s meaning relates to the question or situation at hand. Then, look at the cards as a whole and observe any patterns or connections between them.

When interpreting tarot cards, it’s important to trust your intuition and rely on your knowledge of the deck. Every tarot reader has a unique interpretation style, so don’t be afraid to tap into your own insights and understanding of the cards. Remember, tarot is a tool for self-reflection and guidance, and the cards are merely a medium for accessing your intuition.

9. Communicate the Reading with Compassion

As you deliver the tarot card reading, it’s crucial to approach it with compassion and empathy. Actively listen to the querent, providing a safe and non-judgmental space for them to explore their emotions and thoughts. Encourage them to ask questions and offer additional insights or clarifications when necessary. Remember that tarot readings can be deeply personal, and your role as a reader is to support and guide the querent through the process.

10. Reflect and Learn from Each Reading

After the tarot card reading is complete, take the time to reflect on the experience and learn from it. Consider the accuracy of your interpretations and any lessons or insights you gained from the reading. Journaling about your readings can be a helpful practice, as it allows you to track your progress, identify patterns, and deepen your connection with the cards.

Conclusion

Giving a tarot card reading is a skill that can be developed through practice, intuition, and study. Remember that the tarot is a tool for self-reflection and guidance, and it’s the reader’s responsibility to facilitate a meaningful and transformative experience for the querent. With dedication and an open mind, you can unlock the wisdom of the tarot and use it as a tool for empowerment and personal growth.