A Beginner’s Guide to Tarot
Curious about tarot?
I remember when I found my first tarot deck. I was standing in line at TJ Maxx and there it was. I was curious, had had a few readings before, but had never done my own. So on a whim, I bought that deck.
Well, that whim turned into my diving into it headfirst. In fact, that deck is the deck I use whenever I do a reading for someone else. It has the best, most accurate energy.
I’m guessing if you’re reading this, you’re wanting to know more about tarot readings as well, yes? I am happy to share a bit of beginner advice. But before we get started on the how, let me dispel a few myths:
You don’t need to be psychic to read tarot.
You don’t need years of training.
You don’t need to fear cards like Tower or Death.
Tarot is a tool for connecting you to what your intuition already knows.
If you’ve been curious about reading for yourself, here are a few simple tips to help you get started.
Start With a Simple Question
Tarot works best when you ask open-ended questions. Avoid yes/no questions or asking specific date/time questions. Leave the conversation open so that the card can reveal what you aren’t aware of yet.
Try asking:
What do I need to know today?
What energy is surrounding me right now?
What should I focus on this week?
Give the cards room to reflect your truth back to you.
Pull One to Three Cards
When I am doing a reading for someone, I love a 10-card spread. That’s what gives me the most context and information. But if you’re just starting out, it’s actually a great idea to start small. Draw a card a day or do an easy three-card spread. Once you’re more familiar with the cards and symbolism, you can build up to more complex spreads over time.
Here are a few examples of three-card spreads to try:
Past – Present – Future
Mind – Body – Spirit
Challenge – Advice – Outcome
Keep it simple. Trust what comes up.
Don’t Panic Over “Scary” Cards
Yes, some cards have heavy energy—the Tower’s depiction is enough to make your blood run cold, and who the heck wants the Death card?!
I have learned to read these “heavier” cards with the cards surrounding them, which not only lightens the message, but offers powerful insight. Sometimes we’re just moving through a “Tower Moment” and that moment is not permanent.
Instead of reacting with fear, ask:
What’s this card trying to tell me that I already know? (ie, the Tower could be pointing out what’s being cleared away to make space for something better.)
Where am I resisting necessary change? (ie, Death also means Rebirth, and could hint that you are leaving behind what no longer serves you.)
Often, these cards offer insight and even breakthroughs.
Let Your Intuition Lead
For me, tarot is a vehicle, and I allow my intuition to drive. There’s no shame in using a guidebook for deeper meaning (I still do!). And there’s also no “right” way to read the cards. Sometimes a different message than the “official” meaning comes through via my intuition or higher self, and I simply trust what comes through.
Notice:
How does the card make me feel?
What imagery on the card is speaking to me?
What story is it telling in relation to the cards around it?
The more you practice, the easier this becomes.
A Note About Clarity
As you begin reading for yourself, you may notice times where the same cards come up again and again. Maybe that is resonating loud and clear, and maybe it isn’t. If you find yourself feeling stuck, or simply too close to have clarity, it can be helpful to lean on a guide who can hold space and offer a clear, intuitive reading for you.
If you ever find yourself craving deeper insight, I’d love to read for you.
Want Support with Your Next Spread?
As a storyteller and intuitive, I love connecting clients back to their own inner knowing. Whether you're navigating change, celebrating a new season, or simply feeling stuck, a private reading can offer the clarity you're looking for.
👉 Book your private tarot reading here
Remember:
The answers are inside of you. Your intuition knows.
Allow the cards to speak, and have faith that they are revealing what you need to know in the moment. And, if you ever find yourself craving support, I’m here!
