Learning to do Tarot readings is a skill that many people want to master. Some practitioners resort to learning from books and memorizing the meaning of each card. This is called interpretative Tarot reading. It comes from memory and rational thinking. If you’re a beginner, this method might help you understand how Tarot works.
However, there’s another way of doing readings. This method is called intuitive Tarot reading because it relies on intuition. But what is intuitive tarot reading exactly, and how do I know if it’s for me? This article will define the intuitive method for Tarot reading and compare it with the interpretative method. We will also give you some tips on how to start doing intuitive Tarot readings.
What is Intuitive Tarot Reading?
When we talk about intuition, we are referring to an ability to know or understand something without resorting to logic and reason. It is important to notice that intuition is a skill that can be developed over time, and that everyone is able to strengthen their intuition. This ability can be trained, and all you need to do is practice it. Intuition has always been a very powerful tool for spiritual practitioners. This is because it channels our inner creativity, as well as our past experiences and our ancestry. Intuition is that gut feeling that helps you interpret the world around you. It also helps you make decisions, as it instantly tells you whether something feels right for you. A strong intuition will warn you against people with bad intentions, and it will also let you know when the energy in the environment has changed.
In intuitive Tarot readings, symbolism comes not only from the traditional meaning of the cards, but also from an intuitive place. This means that it comes from a part of our minds that is non-linear and non-rational. Intuition provides you with new insights and meanings that can complement the traditional meaning of each card. In an intuitive Tarot reading, the focus is on the feelings, emotions, and impressions of the reader.
What’s the Difference between intuitive and interpretive tarot reading?
When doing Tarot readings, the interpretative method is what many people resort to. This way of reading the Tarot requires learning the meaning of each one of the 78 cards separately. Then, you need to learn the ways in which the cards can be displayed on the table and what each position represents. Finally, you also need to keep in mind what each card means in combination with the other ones that are presented.
There’s nothing wrong with this method. In fact, it’s good practice for beginners. However, intuitive readings are very different. While interpretative readings come from knowledge and intellect, intuitive readings come from creativity and intuition. Most advanced practitioners agree that learning what each card means is fundamental. They also believe that there are very interesting things that only arise when you tap into your intuition. In a sense, intuitive Tarot readings come after you have already mastered interpretative readings.
How do I start reading Tarot?
Before trying the intuitive Tarot reading method, you first need to feel comfortable when doing interpretative Tarot readings. If you are a beginner, you need to first try the interpretative method for Tarot reading. You have to learn the traditional meanings of the cards. You also need to develop a strong connection to your deck. This might take a while, so we encourage you to be patient.
First, find out what the Tarot means to you specifically. What do you want to achieve with it? How does your deck make you feel? Sorting these questions out might help you when setting an intention for the deck.
After that, get familiar with all the traditional meanings of the cards. Intuitive readings can only be done once you have grasped how the Tarot works. Do interpretative Tarot readings, follow the rules, read each card’s meaning. We suggest that you keep a journal when you practice, and that you devote your time to learning the basics of Tarot reading. Also, always remember to cleanse your cards regularly and set an intention when doing readings.
Once you are confident that you’re ready to try to do an intuitive reading, you can begin. First, find a relaxing place to do the reading and set the mood. You can include incense, candles, dim lighting, or anything that makes you feel at ease. You can play some calming music, if that’s what you like.
Before doing the reading, set an intention. Take deep breaths and try to get into a receptive and contemplative mindset. While you shuffle the cards, try to concentrate only on the deck. You can then place the deck on the surface of your choice.
After that, draw the cards that you are most attracted to. Don’t overthink your decision. The most important part of doing intuitive readings is to trust yourself and your intuition and trust the process. Don’t second-guess your thoughts, feelings or emotions.
After drawing the cards, take a deep breath. Let your thoughts run freely. Observe everything that is going on in your head right now, but let it float away. Take the card in your hands and ask yourself the following questions:
- How does this card make me feel? Which emotions am I experiencing?
- What words first came to my mind when I saw the card?
- What images or symbols can I see on the card? Which of them can be connected to what I’m feeling right now?
- How does the traditional meaning of the card relate to my emotion?
Do the same thing with all the cards you have drawn. Remember that sometimes the true meaning of the card is not clear until some time has passed. It could be days, weeks, or even months. This is why we suggest keeping a journal where you record your practice. Write down the date, which cards you have drawn, what they mean to you, and which words you associate with them. You can also associate the cards that you have drawn to music, movies, or any other type of art.
Repeat the process until you feel more comfortable. In the beginning, you might be scared of making a mistake. This fear, however, comes from the rational side of our minds, so don’t let it take over you. Over time you will find out whether interpretative Tarot readings are for you or not. For some people, applying the intuitive method is the key to unlocking the true potential of the Tarot.
The idea behind intuitive reading is to enrich the cards’ message with our own experiences and stories. In this way, we can start exploring our own reading style. As with many other spiritual practices, there’s not a “right” or “wrong” way of doing Tarot readings. It will ultimately come down to what you feel most comfortable doing. We encourage you to experiment with both options. Devote time to your practice, be patient, and enjoy the results!
Have you tried doing an interpretative reading before? Tell us in the comments!
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