How to Do Your First Tarot Reading (Even if You’ve Never Touched a Deck Before)
Tarot can seem mysterious and even intimidating to beginners, but it’s actually a welcoming tool for self-reflection and gaining insight. If you’re feeling a bit nervous about your first reading, that’s completely normal—even seasoned readers like Arthur Edward Waite, one of the creators of the Rider-Waite-Smith tarot deck, approached tarot with curiosity and caution. This guide will walk you step-by-step through doing your first tarot reading, making it easy and approachable for anyone, even if you’ve never touched a deck before.
Choosing Your Deck
The first step in doing your first tarot reading is choosing a deck that resonates with you. There are countless tarot decks out there, each with its own unique imagery and themes. While it might be tempting to choose a deck based on its aesthetics, for beginners, it’s best to start with something simple and easy to interpret.
Recommendation:
Rider-Waite-Smith Deck: This is the most commonly recommended deck for beginners. The images are clear, the symbolism is easy to understand, and there are plenty of resources available to help you interpret the cards. It’s a great choice if you’re just starting out.
Other Decks: If the Rider-Waite-Smith doesn’t resonate with you, choose a deck that you feel drawn to. Look for something with imagery that speaks to you, even if you can’t explain why.
Tip: Don’t overthink your choice! Trust your intuition—often the first deck that catches your eye is the right one for you.
Can’t Decide on A Deck? Check Out These Posts for More Ideas:
Getting Ready: Preparing for Your First Reading
Creating the right atmosphere for your tarot reading can make a big difference in how comfortable and connected you feel. The goal is to clear your mind, ground yourself, and create a space that feels welcoming and focused.
Step-by-Step Preparation:
Find a Quiet Space: Choose a spot where you won’t be disturbed. It could be a cozy corner, your desk, or a space you feel comfortable in.
Ground Yourself: Before you start, take a few deep breaths to center yourself. Arthur Edward Waite often recommended clearing your mind before a reading, so you can be open to whatever messages come through.
Shuffle the Deck: Shuffling helps you connect with the cards. There’s no right or wrong way to shuffle—riffle shuffle, overhand shuffle, or just mix the cards gently in your hands. Focus on the question you want to ask or the topic you want guidance on as you shuffle.
Set an Intention: Mentally or out loud, set an intention for your reading. You might say, “I’m open to receiving guidance for my highest good” or “I ask for clarity on this situation.”
Create a Comfortable Space: You can light a candle, burn incense, or play soft music to set the mood. Some people like to use crystals, like amethyst or clear quartz, to help focus their energy.
Tip: If you’re feeling anxious, take a moment to ground yourself by holding the deck in your hands, closing your eyes, and taking a few deep breaths.
A Simple 3-Card Spread: Your First Tarot Layout
For your first reading, it’s best to start with a simple and straightforward spread. A three-card spread is perfect for beginners because it provides just enough information without feeling overwhelming. Here are two popular options:
Option 1: Past-Present-Future Spread
Card 1 (Past): Represents influences from the past that are affecting the current situation.
Card 2 (Present): Indicates the current circumstances or challenges.
Card 3 (Future): Suggests what might happen if you continue on your current path.
Interpretation Example: If you pull the Five of Cups in the past position, the Two of Swords in the present, and the Sun in the future, it might suggest that past disappointments have led to indecision, but clarity and joy are on the horizon.
Option 2: Mind-Body-Spirit Spread
Card 1 (Mind): Reflects your current thoughts or mindset.
Card 2 (Body): Represents your physical state or actions.
Card 3 (Spirit): Shows your spiritual or emotional state.
Interpretation Example: Pulling the Four of Swords in the mind position, the Knight of Pentacles in the body, and the High Priestess in the spirit could indicate a need for rest, patience in your actions, and trusting your intuition.
Tip: Choose the spread that feels most relevant to your current situation or question.
Interpreting the Cards: Trusting Your Intuition
The most important part of reading tarot is interpretation. While the guidebook that comes with your deck can be helpful, your intuition is your most powerful tool. Here’s a simple approach to interpreting the cards:
Step-by-Step Interpretation:
Look at the Imagery First: Before reaching for the guidebook, take a moment to look at the imagery on the card. What stands out to you? What emotions or thoughts come up? Trust your first impressions.
Notice Patterns: Are there repeating symbols, colors, or themes in the cards you pulled? These patterns can provide clues about the overall message of the reading.
Consult the Guidebook: After you’ve formed your initial impressions, check the guidebook for more details. Use it to confirm or expand on what you sensed intuitively.
Focus on the Big Picture: Instead of getting caught up in every detail, look at the overall message of the reading. What is the story the cards are telling?
Tip: If a card doesn’t make sense, don’t stress! Trust that the meaning will become clear over time. Sometimes, the cards make sense only after you’ve had time to reflect.
A First Reading Exercise: Your Turn!
Now that you have the basics down, it’s time for your first reading! Here’s a simple exercise to help you get started:
Challenge: Do a three-card spread (either Past-Present-Future or Mind-Body-Spirit) and share your interpretation in the comments. Focus on one card that stands out to you—what does it mean, and why did it catch your attention?
Bonus Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback or guidance. Tarot is a journey, and every reader has their unique style and perspective.
Conclusion: Keep Practicing and Reflecting
Congratulations on completing your first tarot reading! Remember, tarot is as much about self-reflection and personal growth as it is about predicting the future. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become. Even if your first reading feels unclear, trust that with each shuffle and spread, you’re building a deeper connection with the cards.
Keep a journal to track your readings, patterns you notice, and any thoughts or feelings that arise. Over time, you’ll see your skills develop, and your confidence will grow.
Invitation: Share how your first reading went in the comments! What did you learn, and how did it feel to connect with the cards? Let’s build a supportive community of readers, from beginners to seasoned tarot enthusiasts.