Fairly basci questions [Archive] - MysticWicks Online Pagan Community and Spiritual Sanctuary

2steps

March 19th, 2006, 10:40 AM

I'm a bit unsure on a few things about doing a reading.

Should the cards only be taken from the top of the deck?
Should I only use the spread shown in the decks instructions?
I keep getting stuck on the interpretations. I read what it says about the card in the instruction book and thats fine but how do I apply that to the person/situation the reading was for? Is it just what I feel right now looking at the card, or in the picture or something completely different? :ugh:

I understand it takes time and practice to learn but I didn't want to go off doing it wrong and be building on that

Thanks

LisaT4P

March 19th, 2006, 11:03 AM

Should the cards only be taken from the top of the deck?Some people shuffle and then deal the cards from the top. If you do this, I would suggest flipping them from left to right, like a book rather than from top to bottom. This ensures that whatever cards are upright or reversed remain that way when the cards are laid out.

Other people fan the deck out and choose the cards they feel drawn to. Either way is perfectly fine, in fact, I sometimes use both methods.
Should I only use the spread shown in the decks instructions?No. Most of the time, the LWB (little white book) is not very helpful. Start by using small spreads like Past, Present, Future or Yes, No, Maybe or even just a one card draw. Avoid the Celtic Cross spreads until you are more experienced. That one generally gives a new reader too much info. and it can be intimidating. :)

I keep getting stuck on the interpretations. I read what it says about the card in the instruction book and thats fine but how do I apply that to the person/situation the reading was for? Is it just what I feel right now looking at the card, or in the picture or something completely different? :ugh: Start by thinking about the position of the card. If this card is in the Past position, think about how that cards meaning could relate to a person's past. If it is in an advice position, think about how the querent could take the information from that card and apply it to their situation. Learning the tarot is not just about learning card meanings. It's like about learning to apply the cards to your everyday life.

Try pulling one card a day. Don't just pay attention to what the book says. Think of a time in your life when you felt like the card's interpretation. Example: We've all had times when we've felt overwhelmed, like we've taken on too much or that too much is expected of us. That is a 10 of Wands moment. We've also all had times when we have felt like we're on the fence, we can't make a decision about something: that's a 2 of Swords moment. Relating the cards to your every day life is an important step in understanding the tarot.

I understand it takes time and practice to learn but I didn't want to go off doing it wrong and be building on that

ThanksAmethyst Rose offers a wonderful class on tarot that I'm sure you'd benefit from. Watch for the next time you can sign up.

Also, buy a real tarot book. Mary K. Greer's books are wonderful as is It's All in the Cards by John Mangiapane. As I've said the LWBs are often not helpful, mostly because they are LITTLE. A "real" book on tarot will be an invaluable tool while learning and a great reference for later on.