How to Do a Tarot Reading

The use of the tarot as a form of divination is extremely popular. Those who have been using this method for a while know how useful it can be. There are undoubtedly times when someone close to you will approach you and ask you to do a reading for him or her. There is nothing wrong with this as long as the person you are reading for approaches the reading with an open mind.

Things You'll Need

• Time and place where you and the person you are reading for will not be disturbed
• Tarot deck
• Piece of cloth (or altar cloth) (optional)
• Pen/pencil (optional)
• Paper (optional)

Instructions

1. Be sure to do the reading in a neutral environment where you will not be disturbed. As a matter of etiquette and respect for the situation, it is always good to conduct the reading at home (be it yours or the person for whom you are reading). However, if you wish to conduct the reading outside, find an area that will allow you the privacy and quiet that you need. Never conduct a reading in a public place. To do so would only be an invitation for unwelcomed watchers and distraction. Conducting a reading is a private matter and does not need an audience or any projected negativity.

2. Tell the individual ahead of time that if she or he wishes to do so to write down the questions that she or he wants to ask. Let the individual know that it is alright to take notes if they wish. Such notes may come in handy at a later date.

3. Some people prefer to use a piece of cloth, or an altar cloth, on which to lay out the cards. You may find that you need to let the person you are reading for know this and the reasoning behind it.

4. Allow the person to touch the cards. The person has to be the one to shuffle the cards in order to transfer his or her energy. Ask the person to concentrate on the question, or situation, they are wanting to know about as they shuffle the cards. It is a good rule of thumb to ask them to keep the question to themselves until the conclusion of the reading for that particular question. The reason for this is to ensure the accuracy of the information and to demonstrate to the individual that you are reading strictly from the cards. If the person sees that you are unaware of what they are asking, it lends more credibility to the information you are giving them.

5. Don't leave the person you are reading for in the dark. The reading is a learning experience and the person deserves to be in on what is going on. Explain everything. And this includes the layout of the cards. As you are conducting the reading, let the person know the significance of the placement of the cards, what each card means, how the cards build on one another and how the layout forms the overall message.

6. If the cards communicate a message that is not pleasant (a break-up on the horizon, someone cheating, etc.) use care and consideration when communicating this information. Do not just thrust the information out there to smack the individual into shock. Regardless of what information the cards communicate let the individual know that the outcome which the cards illustrate is NOT set in stone. The reading is based on the assumption that if all things remain constant as they are at that moment, then the outcome is likely. But the outcome can be changed through action, and in some cases through inaction, depending on the situation.

Tips & Warnings

• Never accept payment for a reading. This includes an exchange of money, material items or favors.

• Do not conduct a reading in a public place, or in mixed company.

• Do not use the cards as a tool to intentionally hurt or cause distress to someone else.

• Always be truthful in communicating how the layout of the cards reads.

• Do not attempt this or any other working while under the influence of a controlled substance. You need a clear and focused mind.

• Do not do a reading for a third party if that person is under the influence of a controlled substance. Like yourself, the individual needs to approach the reading with a clear and focused mind.