Whether you’re just getting started with Tarot or Oracle, or you’ve been involved for many seasons, you may want to explore different ways to set up or prepare for a reading. Keep in mind that there are no strict rules (at least in our opinion). Some may want to crack open the new deck and get right to it, or read on-the-go and this is perfectly fine! This particular writing will be focused on a little more in-depth setup, rather than quick pulls or traveling reads.
These are some tips from our personal approach, as with many things in life and magick, this can be adapted to fit your personal style, preferences, and needs. You make the rules and you change them when YOU want to!
Decks and Details
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Pick the deck that feels right for the energy or reading
As you begin to read and learn more, you’ll often find that different decks hold a different personality or tone. You may be drawn to, or choose a deck that holds imagery and messages that call to you.
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Connect with the deck
When you first pick up a new tarot - deck you may find that the cards themselves hold different names for the suits, or some of the Major Arcana cards. With oracle cards the images and messages may not be familiar. If you are just getting started, it may help to familiarize yourself with the unique energies between decks. Additionally, flipping through the cards (whether tarot or oracle), and the guidebook (if it is included) helps you to get acquainted with the images, messages, and energy. Some may even prefer to carry the deck, or sleep with it for a few days before doing the first reading. The process is all very personal.
If you are working with a deck that you are already very familiar with, you can skip this.
If you are working with a deck that you are familiar with, but haven’t read or connected with in a while, it may help to follow the steps above. At the very least you can cleanse the deck, shuffle, and flip through it to get back in touch with the energy.
Preparing for a Reading
Now that you have engaged with your new deck, reconnected with an old one, or you are just ready to take the next step - we will move into preparing for the reading.
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Set up the space
Create a comfortable space where the reading can be performed, and clear the mind with deep breaths. If preferred, get a journal out or a recording device to take notes and dive into the details.
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Cleanse and clear the space and deck, and give it a good shuffle
Cleansing and clearing is a very personal practice, and one that everyone performs differently. There have been times where I simply ‘knock’ the energy off of my deck by physically knocking on it three times, and then spritzing myself with a cleansing spray, and giving the deck a shuffle. Some may prefer to smoke cleanse the entire space, and the deck before beginning. Choose what works best for you! I will say it helps to have a clear surface to lay your cards out, so smush those herb crumbs and trinkets to the side.
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Deepen connection and/or set the energy
We often find that lighting a candle and/or incense helps encourage connection. After lighting the candle and/or incense we will call on guides/energies being worked with for support. Some may choose to pull out a specific crystal, or oil that helps with intuition or connection. Adapt this step to fit your needs.
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Pick a spread and the focus
Finally, the focus shifts to the topic of the reading, and each individual space in a spread. The question or topic will be laid out within your spread, so pick one that feels right for the read. Take a moment to set clear intentions for the reading. While reviewing and thinking of the topic/question, shuffle the deck. Before pulling or letting each card fall, think of where it will go in the spread and place it there. No need to overthink this part, trust that you have thought on the topic or question well and that the cards being pulled are the ones that will encourage the guidance and clarity you are seeking.
All that is left now is reading the spread! Sometimes I journal my spreads, sometimes I simply absorb what is laid out and keep it in mind as I move forward. Make this process as simple or elaborate as you want or need. The most important step is to keep belief in yourself and your personal magick!