How to Give an Effective Tarot Reading

Tarot is a subject that has become increasingly accepted and more popular in recent years. Go to almost any bookstore and you will see many books on the subject as well as many decks of cards to choose from. If you've decided to give the tarot a try, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Enhance your Intuition.
Intuition can be very important in giving a tarot reading. Several of the cards have many meanings and it's going to be up to you to figure out what exactly the cards are trying to get across. Also, you'll need that intuition when you're shuffling the cards. I'll explain that more later. Check out my previous AC article for some tips on how to do this.

Choose the right deck
This is one of the most important factors to consider. Get the wrong deck, and you're likely to get readings that are inaccurate, unclear and you'll just end up upsetting or confusing the person who has come to you to get some answers. When choosing a deck, instinct is key! I would recommend going to a local bookstore or new age shop to get your deck rather then just buying them online if possible. Most of these places will have a deck open, which makes it much easier to choose. Look at the cards carefully. How do you feel about what you see? Does the imagery speak to you? If so, that's a good first step. Next, you'll want to actually handle the cards. Try, if possible, to shuffle them. If your shuffling is difficult or awkward, these are not the cards for you. Finally, you'll want to take a moment to hold the cards in your hand and see how you'll react. Do you get nervous? Uncomfortable? Do they feel heavy in your hands? Move on to another deck, this one isn't for you. Once you have chosen a deck you're comfortable with and like, study the enclosed booklet carefully to see what meanings each card is given. Also, most booklets/books will give you some layouts to use. Practice these until you feel comfortable enough to layout the cards totally on your own without having to refer to the book all the time.

Creating a proper environment for a reading
When giving a reading, it's important to have the right setting. No, I'm not talking dressing up like a gypsy and putting on a big show. I mean, you'll want to create an environment that is peaceful, quiet and will make you and your querant comfortable. If it helps set a more relaxing mood, light some incense or a candle, or put on some soothing music or a CD of nature sounds. Being in a relaxed, calm state of mind is key in listening to your inner voice and being able to properly interpret the cards.

While giving the reading
First of all, develop your own ritual for "clearing" the cards and blessing them. Some believe that the cards actually can carry the energy from a previous reading with them and that can interfere with the current reading. Personally, I always say a prayer asking that all the energy the cards have carried over be released and then picture the deck surrounded by white light. To bless the cards, I tap the deck with one finger three times. That's a method a friend taught me and it seems to work, so I stick with it. If these don't work for you, be creative and develop your own. Remember as you are shuffling the cards to keep the question at hand firmly in mind. Reflect on it as you shuffle, then stop and begin laying out the cards when you think you have shuffled enough. Turn over one card at a time and go over each one carefully with your querant to make sure they are connecting with what is being said. Don't just rush through it.

If you follow these tips, you're sure to be pleasantly surprised when you begin giving your readings.