Essential Tips for Preparing for Your First Tarot Reading

Getting your tarot read by a professional reader can be an exciting experience, but it can also feel a little intimidating if you don't know what you're in for. As a professional tarot reader myself, I've worked with tons of first-timers who have expressed these reservations to me before we began, and I tell them all the same thing to lighten the anxiety: tarot is a tool for insight and reflection, not fortune-telling as we see in Hollywood. It's meant to give you different perspectives and help you think outside the box...along with a little bit of predictions if you continue down the path you're on and don't change anything up ;).

If that's not enough to ease your nerves, fear not! I'm here to share with you a few easy tips to help you prepare yourself for a meaningful and comfortable experience.

A tarot deck laid out on a wooden table with soft candlelight

Have a Clear Situation or Question in Mind

Before you set out to your tarot appointment, it's a good idea to think about what you want to explore during your reading.

• Write down any specific situations or questions you are wanting to know. While "cold" readings can be done, they might not offer insight into the areas of your life that you are wanting to hear about.

• Be sure to ask your reader beforehand if there are any topics or questions that they do not read into. Some readers, myself included, won't read into medical issues and certain legal situations as those should be consulted with a professional.

• Eat something before your appointment. A lot of tarot readers tap into your energy field in order to get accurate information on you. While this doesn't siphon your energy, a handful of people can feel when readers do this and it can make them feel a bit air-headed.

Having a clear intention helps you stay grounded and makes the reading more useful and more impactful.

Understand There Is Nothing to Fear

Many people feel nervous before their first tarot reading because they worry about bad news or confusing messages. It’s important to remember that tarot is not about predicting doom or controlling your future. Instead, it offers guidance and new perspectives.

• The cards reflect possibilities and energies, not fixed outcomes. The future is always changing and shifting depending on our actions and choices in life. Always remember that you have the power to change your future.

• You are in control of how you use the information. Use it as advice and guidance to better your life and keep you on the right track. If used wisely, your reading can help you make the best choices for you to get to your desired outcome or lifestyle.

• If something feels uncomfortable, let your reader know and ask them to switch subjects. A good reader knows that this is YOUR reading, not theirs. You have full control over what you wish and don't wish to hear.

  
  

Approach your reading with an open mind and curiosity. This attitude will help you get the most from the experience.

What to Expect During Your First Reading

At the beginning of your session, a good reader will ask you if this is your first reading and then fill you in on how they perform their sessions. Typically, the reader will shuffle the cards while you focus on your question. Then, they will lay out a spread of cards and interpret their meanings.

• The reader may explain the symbolism of each card. They will translate the symbolism in a way that makes sense to you and interpret meanings of the cards to your specific situations or questions

• You can ask questions or share your thoughts during the session. The more information you're willing to give to your reader, the more specific your reading will be. Giving insight into your life will give you better insight from the cards.

• There is a possibility that you may get emotional or want to cry, and this is completely normal, especially in spiritual guidance and life coaching sessions. Your reader will understand completely and should have a box of tissues at the ready in case it happens.

  
  

Remember, the reading is a conversation, not a one-way prediction.

Ground Yourself After the Reading

After a tarot reading, it’s helpful to reconnect with your body and the present moment. This process is called grounding and can help you feel calm and centered.

• Eat earthy foods like potatoes, carrots, or meats to bring your energy back to your body. Heavy foods will make you pay attention to your center and bring you back to earth, especially if it was a heavier reading.

• Spend time outside, sitting with your bare feet on the ground or grass. Letting the earth reclaim any excess energy in your body is a great way to pull you back down from your energy field being tapped into.

• Take deep breaths and focus on the sensations around you. Being present in your body and tuning into its rhythm will get you out of your head and calm any thoughts if your mind is overloaded with information.

  
  

Grounding helps you process the reading and prevents feeling overwhelmed or scattered.

Tips for Choosing a Tarot Reader

Finding the right tarot reader can make a big difference in your experience. Look for someone who makes you feel comfortable and respected.

• Read reviews or ask for recommendations. The best tarot readers are the ones that have been verified by your community!

• Choose a reader who explains their process clearly. Not only does this show that they care about your emotional well-being, it shows that they are empathetic to first-timers and how intimidating they can seem to beginners.

• Trust your intuition about the person’s energy and style. If you feel that they are trying to scam or scare you into any additional spiritual workings, politely ask to have the reading canceled and leave. You are under no obligation to go through a reading with anyone.

  
  

A good reader will support your journey and help you understand the cards.

Final Thoughts on Preparing for Your First Tarot Reading

While the process can seem nerve-wracking at first, I can assure you that a good reading will have you leaving empowered, confident, and with the clarity that you were seeking out. Try to put the Hollywood depictions of tarot readings out of your head and enter the sacred space of divine wisdom with confidence and an open heart. I promise you won't regret it!

Until Next Time, Magickal Souls!

Tori