How to read tarot cards for beginners
HOW TO READ TAROT
Case study and example of a tarot reading
If you want to learn how to read tarot cards and are a beginner then reading some case studies of genuine readings is a great way to start. By getting familiar with how others read the cards this can help when doing your own tarot reading, either for yourself or you client.
This following example has been written by one of our students having undertaken our Professional tarot reading diploma course.
It is recommended when first learning to read tarot that you practice on family and friends to help you gain the confidence and accuracy you need. However, it is also important to read for people who you do not know and have never met before to really test your skills when wishing to offer an accurate tarot reading.
Case study of: Client – Female – Age 20
Time to complete full reading – 1 hour
I had asked my friends to see if they knew of anyone who might want a reading so that I could practice my skills, preferably with someone who I didn’t know personally.
INTRODUCTION
The Client contacted me and said that she would like to have a reading so we arranged a time for her to come to my house.
SETTING THE SCENE & ROOM PREPARATION
I have a room set up in my house for Crystal & Colour Therapy that is also used for my Tarot Readings. The room is warm and feels spiritual with Chakra pictures and pictures of the sea and moon.
ASKING FOR GUIDANCE
It is important to me to ask for guidance and knowledge from my spirit guides before the reading and meditate to achieve peace and tranquillity.
The Client was shown into the room and she commented how it had a nice feel to it. I asked her to take a seat and offered her a drink which she declined. I asked Client if she had ever had a Tarot reading, she said no but a few of her friends had and she was curious to know what it was like.
PREPARING THE CLIENTS EXPECTATIONS
Having explained that I had been studying the Tarot cards for 6 months and had undertaken a practical course as well as distance learning and lots of self-development. I had done other readings which had gone well and I felt that the cards really did provide inspiration and it was like reading a story. I explained that the reading was to be used as a guide only.
CELTIC CROSS TAROT SPREAD
I decided to use the Celtic Cross Spread as it can tell you a lot of information about many aspects of the clients’ life. It also tells you about inner emotions which I find really helpful for clients helping them to open up to their feelings and recognise then.
My cards were ready mixed with all of the Major and Minor Arcana included so I was using the full pack of cards. I asked Client to shuffle the cards without any particular thoughts, the reading will then bring out what is relevant to them at this time.
Client handed the cards back to me and I laid the 10 cards out face down in the Celtic Cross Spread. The following is what the cards revealed to me and how I informed the client.
Card 1
Six of Cups – The Present Situation
The Six of Cups in the present position means that you might be spending too much time thinking about what is the best part of your life. Don’t dwell on the past, you can have better experiences now, nothing is stopping you. With regard to work you may be feeling a bit stagnant, try to make it part of you not separate. With regard to romance you may have gone through a honeymoon period and things have calmed down. Focus on the future using the past as a foundation. With regard to lifestyle you should think about being healthy and active.
Card 2
The Magician – Immediate Challenge
This represents the immediate influences over you and is a go and get it card. This is the card that indicates the ultimate level of control over your life and the events in it. There is an urgency to a situation that you can seize to take advantage of. The Magician indicates that your ability to impress the right person or people can have an impact on the direction your life takes. Confidently work with your skills, you can turn a situation you are being presented with around.
Card 3
The Lovers – Distant Past
The bond that these two lovers have in this card is strong and reflects a soul mate or close relationship. This sometimes tells us that your heart is ruling your head, you want to be in love, escaping doubts or fears. Be more aware of who you are and what values you place on a relationship in love. A dilemma will be presented which needs action or a decision. Something will change your plans or the course of your experience something that may look negative but will turn out to be a blessing in disguise. Often it’s the most difficult path that will bring you the greatest benefit. Be completely honest with yourself in this situation, examine your feelings, your options and your own values.
Card 4
Ace of Swords – Recent Past
With regard to work this is a positive sign, especially with regard to a new job or a reshuffle in your current job. Look outside the boundaries that you have set yourself. If you’re in a relationship you may need to do something new together to spice it up. Now is a good time to turn over a new leaf. Face up to a new challenge, believe in yourself.
Card 5
Ten of Cups – Best Outcome
The joy and happiness you seek is within reach, particularly with regard to relationships and family. There may be an upcoming family holiday where you can relax together or a family reunion. This is a great time to bond with your family. It may also reflect strong family values that were instilled within you which are now helping you create a fulfilling lifestyle. When you feel truly happy about something you know that is the way to go.
Card 6
Page of Swords – Immediate Future
This reflects an abundance of energy. You can’t wait to get started on a new project or an idea. You start all projects with energy and excitement, the challenge is if you can keep it up.
Follow your passions and go where your energy lies. Move forward and put the wheels in motion. You are just beginning to make your way in life, align yourself with people who will nurture you and help you realise your goals. Choose a relationship that feels natural with someone who will learn and grow with you. You have a way with words, coming up with new ideas and passionate about what you do.
Be careful not to gossip, be careful what you say to who, as you may be prone to sharing confidential information about yourself, so, protect your privacy. Think before you speak.
Card 7
Ace of Cups – Factors Affecting Situation
Trust your heart and inner feelings to lead you. This is your intuition speaking to you. The opportunity for fulfilment is there. This can represent a new relationship be it a friendship or romance, you will share a special connection with this person. Give and accept love on a new level, open your heart to what is around you. Would you like to drop your reserve and let your feelings show? Maybe make peace with friends or yourself.
Card 8
Two of Swords – External Influences
Maybe you are refusing to deal with feelings or holding onto feelings, denying yourself expression about something, avoiding making a decision, trying to hide from it and pretending that if you ignore it, it will go away. This card reminds us that lifes decisions are often difficult and can be painful. Take the bull by the horns, make your decisions with your best intentions. Remove your blindfold and see the situation for what it is
Card 9
Hanged Man – Hopes & Fears
Finally need to let go of emotional baggage and live for the moment, not the past. Maybe you are feeling stuck or restricted in your life, you need to get in touch with why you are feeling this way. The Hanged Man is about letting go. You need an emotional release from whatever it is that is leaving you feeling stuck.
Card 10
Queen of Swords – Final Outcome
You need to be independent in thought and judgement. Think with your head and not your heart. You tell it as it is, a quick thinker and very perceptive, you can get straight to the point.
This card is a hopeful beacon, this card indicates that you will make the right, mature choice. You may also achieve something in education or work that lifts you above a group of people you currently associate with.
Summary & Feedback
Client was very positive about her reading and said that it had raised some things that she was dealing with internally and hearing them spoken out loud has helped her to put some things into perspective and think about what actions she might take to change a situation.
She thanked me for the reading and said that she would like to come back in the future, I suggested that she wait at least 3 months to allow her to take in the reading today
and allow time for reflection.
Many tarot students who have studied with Luna Holistics have gone on to become professional tarot readers both in person and offering online readings.
Choosing Tarot Cards – This is a personal choice and there really are some great cards to choose from but I used the same Tarot pack as was recommended Morgan-Greer Tarot: 78-Card Deck
Professional Tarot Diploma Course
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