Key Takeaways
1. Create a sacred space for your Tarot practice
The space in which you conduct your Tarot readings is incredibly important to both you and your client.
Set the stage for insight. Creating a sacred space for your Tarot practice involves more than just physical arrangement. It encompasses mental, emotional, and spiritual preparation as well. Clear your mind of distractions, let go of any emotional baggage, and set a positive intention for your reading. This holistic approach helps you connect more deeply with the cards and your intuition.
Consider these elements when creating your sacred space:
- Physical: Choose a quiet, comfortable area free from interruptions
- Mental: Take a few deep breaths to center yourself and focus on the reading
- Emotional: Release any strong emotions that might cloud your judgment
- Spiritual: Set an intention or say a brief prayer to connect with your higher self
2. Learn the Tarot card meanings through intuition and symbolism
The Tarot is the storybook of our lives, the mirror to our souls, and the key to unlocking our inner wisdom.
Trust your intuition. While traditional card meanings are important, developing a personal connection with the cards is crucial for meaningful readings. Start by examining the imagery on each card and noting your immediate impressions. Pay attention to the symbols, colors, and overall mood of the card. This intuitive approach allows you to tap into your subconscious and access deeper insights.
To deepen your understanding of Tarot symbolism:
- Keep a Tarot journal to record your impressions and interpretations
- Study common symbols across different cards and their meanings
- Practice storytelling with the cards to bring their messages to life
- Meditate on individual cards to unlock their deeper significance
3. Master the four elements and numerology in Tarot
You can apply the same "Tarot by numbers" technique for the 22 cards of the Major Arcana.
Unlock the cards' essence. Understanding the four elements (fire, water, air, earth) and basic numerology provides a solid foundation for interpreting Tarot cards. Each element corresponds to a suit in the Minor Arcana, while numbers carry their own symbolic meanings. This knowledge allows you to quickly grasp the core energy of any card, even if you can't recall its specific meaning.
Key associations to remember:
- Fire (Wands): passion, energy, inspiration
- Water (Cups): emotions, intuition, relationships
- Air (Swords): thoughts, communication, intellect
- Earth (Pentacles): material world, finances, physical reality
- Numbers 1-10: progression from new beginnings to completion
4. Interpret reversed cards and card combinations
Reading with reversed Tarot cards will open up a whole new layer to your readings and provide you the opportunity to go even deeper with your intuitive insights.
Expand your interpretations. Reversed cards and card combinations add depth and nuance to your readings. While reversed cards can indicate blocked or internalized energy, they're not necessarily negative. Look at how cards interact with each other to tell a more complex story. This approach allows for more dynamic and insightful readings.
Methods for interpreting reversed cards:
- Internalized energy: the card's energy is turned inward
- Too much or too little energy: an imbalance in the card's qualities
- Blocked energy: the card's energy is being hindered
- Upside-down imagery: interpret the visual elements in reverse
5. Ask powerful questions to unlock deeper insights
The quality of the questions in your Tarot readings is directly linked to getting the answers that can help you to shape a path forward and manifest your goals and dreams.
Frame empowering queries. The way you phrase your questions greatly influences the insights you receive from a Tarot reading. Avoid yes/no questions or those that assume a predetermined outcome. Instead, focus on open-ended questions that explore possibilities and empower you to take action.
Guidelines for crafting powerful Tarot questions:
- Start with "how," "what," or "why" instead of "will" or "should"
- Focus on personal growth and actionable insights
- Avoid questions about third parties or that infringe on others' privacy
- Reframe predictive questions to explore potential outcomes and influences
6. Choose the right Tarot spread for your reading
The key is to make sure you're choosing a spread or layout that's in alignment with your question, and that will provide you the clarity you need.
Match spread to purpose. Selecting an appropriate Tarot spread enhances the relevance and clarity of your reading. Consider the nature of your question and the level of detail you're seeking. Simple spreads often suffice for straightforward queries, while more complex layouts can provide deeper insights into multifaceted situations.
Popular Tarot spreads and their uses:
- Three-card spread: quick insights into past, present, and future
- Celtic Cross: comprehensive look at a situation from multiple angles
- Relationship spread: explore dynamics between two people
- Custom spreads: create layouts tailored to specific questions or situations
7. Develop your skills in reading for yourself and others
Reading Tarot for yourself can be incredibly powerful and insightful if you do it correctly.
Practice with intention. Reading for yourself and others requires different approaches and considerations. When reading for yourself, maintain objectivity and avoid the temptation to interpret cards based on what you want to hear. When reading for others, create a safe and supportive environment, ask clarifying questions, and focus on empowering the querent.
Tips for effective Tarot readings:
- Set clear boundaries and expectations before the reading
- Stay neutral and avoid projecting your own biases
- Encourage dialogue and participation from the querent
- Provide actionable advice and empower the querent to make their own decisions
8. Reflect on your readings and seek constructive feedback
Feedback from a trusted source is an essential element of any growth process.
Embrace continuous improvement. Reflecting on your readings and seeking feedback are crucial for developing your skills as a Tarot reader. After each reading, take time to journal about your insights, impressions, and any challenges you encountered. When reading for others, ask for their input on the accuracy and helpfulness of the reading.
Strategies for reflection and feedback:
- Keep a detailed Tarot journal to track your progress and insights
- Ask specific questions to gather targeted feedback
- Follow up with querents after some time has passed to assess the reading's impact
- Use constructive criticism as an opportunity for growth and refinement of your skills
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FAQ
What's "Intuitive Tarot: 31 Days to Learn to Read Tarot Cards and Develop Your Intuition" about?
- Purpose and Structure: The book is a 31-day program designed to teach readers how to read Tarot cards intuitively, rather than relying solely on traditional meanings. It breaks down the learning process into daily lessons and activities.
- Intuitive Approach: It emphasizes reading Tarot from the heart, encouraging readers to connect with their inner wisdom and intuition to interpret the cards.
- Comprehensive Guide: The book covers everything from choosing a Tarot deck to understanding the meanings of the Major and Minor Arcana, and how to conduct readings for oneself and others.
- Community and Support: Readers are invited to join the Biddy Tarot Community for additional resources and practice opportunities.
Why should I read "Intuitive Tarot" by Brigit Esselmont?
- Develop Intuition: The book focuses on developing your intuition, which is a valuable skill not only for Tarot reading but for personal growth and decision-making.
- Structured Learning: With a clear 31-day plan, it provides a structured approach to learning Tarot, making it accessible for beginners and those looking to deepen their practice.
- Practical Exercises: Each day includes practical exercises that allow you to apply what you've learned immediately, reinforcing your skills and understanding.
- Community Access: The book offers access to a supportive community where you can practice readings and learn from others, enhancing your learning experience.
What are the key takeaways of "Intuitive Tarot"?
- Intuition Over Memorization: The book emphasizes the importance of intuition in Tarot reading, encouraging readers to trust their inner voice over rote memorization of card meanings.
- Daily Practice: Consistent practice is key to mastering Tarot, and the book provides daily exercises to build your skills gradually.
- Personal Connection: Developing a personal connection with your Tarot deck and the cards is crucial for accurate and meaningful readings.
- Empowerment Through Tarot: The book teaches readers how to use Tarot as a tool for personal empowerment, helping them make informed decisions and understand their life's path.
How does Brigit Esselmont suggest choosing a Tarot deck?
- Intuitive Connection: Esselmont advises choosing a deck that you feel a personal and intuitive connection with, as this will enhance your reading experience.
- Imagery and Artwork: Consider the imagery and artwork of the deck, ensuring it resonates with you and is easy to interpret.
- Experience Level: Beginners might start with a deck like the Rider Waite, known for its straightforward imagery, but it's important to choose what feels right for you.
- Quality and Durability: Opt for a high-quality deck that will withstand frequent use, avoiding cheaper reproductions that may not last.
What is the "Card a Day" exercise in "Intuitive Tarot"?
- Daily Practice: The "Card a Day" exercise involves drawing one Tarot card each day to deepen your understanding of its meaning and symbolism.
- Reflective Journaling: Readers are encouraged to journal their insights and experiences related to the card throughout the day, fostering a personal connection with the Tarot.
- Intuitive Development: This exercise helps develop intuition by encouraging readers to notice how the card's energy manifests in their daily life.
- Long-term Growth: Over time, this practice builds a comprehensive understanding of the Tarot deck, card by card.
How does "Intuitive Tarot" explain the Major Arcana?
- Life Lessons: The Major Arcana cards represent significant life lessons and archetypal themes that influence one's spiritual journey.
- The Fool's Journey: The book describes the Fool's Journey, a narrative that illustrates the progression through the Major Arcana, highlighting the lessons learned at each stage.
- Archetypal Symbols: Each card is associated with universal archetypes, offering insights into the human experience and personal growth.
- Integration with Minor Arcana: The Major Arcana cards set the scene for a reading, with the Minor Arcana providing context and details about daily life.
What are the four elements in the Minor Arcana according to "Intuitive Tarot"?
- Water (Cups): Represents emotions, intuition, and relationships, often appearing in readings about personal connections and feelings.
- Fire (Wands): Symbolizes energy, passion, and inspiration, linked to life purpose and new ideas.
- Earth (Pentacles): Relates to material wealth, career, and finances, focusing on the physical and practical aspects of life.
- Air (Swords): Associated with thoughts, communication, and actions, often appearing in readings about decision-making and asserting power.
How does Brigit Esselmont suggest interpreting reversed Tarot cards?
- Internalized Energy: Reversed cards may indicate energy that is internalized or not fully expressed, focusing on personal reflection.
- Imbalance: They can also suggest an imbalance, where there is too much or too little of the card's energy present.
- Blocked Energy: Reversals might point to blocked energy, highlighting areas where progress is hindered or delayed.
- Upside-Down Imagery: Esselmont encourages looking at the imagery of reversed cards for intuitive insights, as the visual perspective can offer new meanings.
What is the "No Spread" spread in "Intuitive Tarot"?
- Flexible Approach: The "No Spread" spread is a dynamic method where cards are drawn one at a time, with each card leading to the next question.
- Intuitive Flow: This approach allows for an intuitive flow of questions and answers, adapting to the reading's direction as it unfolds.
- Exploration and Discovery: It encourages exploration and discovery, making it ideal for readers who prefer less structure and more spontaneity.
- Personalized Readings: The "No Spread" spread is highly personalized, as it evolves based on the reader's intuition and the querent's needs.
How does "Intuitive Tarot" recommend creating a sacred space for readings?
- Physical Environment: Choose a quiet, comfortable space free from distractions, where you can focus on the reading.
- Mental Clarity: Clear your mind of extraneous thoughts and emotions, centering yourself with deep breaths or meditation.
- Emotional Safety: Ensure both you and your client feel safe and supported, fostering an open and trusting environment.
- Spiritual Connection: Set an intention for the reading and invite spiritual guidance, enhancing your connection with the Tarot and your intuition.
What are some powerful questions to ask the Tarot according to "Intuitive Tarot"?
- Open-Ended Questions: Ask questions that begin with "what," "how," or "why" to encourage deeper exploration and insight.
- Empowering Focus: Frame questions that empower you to take action and make informed decisions, rather than seeking definitive answers.
- Personal Responsibility: Focus on questions that emphasize personal responsibility and growth, such as "What can I do to improve my situation?"
- Clarity and Specificity: Ensure questions are clear and specific, allowing for focused and meaningful readings.
What are the best quotes from "Intuitive Tarot" and what do they mean?
- "Learn to read Tarot cards from your heart, not the book." This quote emphasizes the importance of intuition and personal connection in Tarot reading, encouraging readers to trust their inner wisdom.
- "The best way to predict your future is to create it." This highlights the empowering nature of Tarot, focusing on how individuals can shape their destiny through informed choices and actions.
- "Your intuition tells you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear." It underscores the role of intuition in providing honest and sometimes challenging insights that lead to personal growth.
- "The Tarot reflects back to us what we already know within ourselves, our inner wisdom." This quote speaks to the idea that Tarot is a tool for accessing and understanding one's subconscious knowledge and truths.
Review Summary
Intuitive Tarot receives mixed reviews, with an average rating of 4.07/5. Readers appreciate its beginner-friendly approach, daily exercises, and emphasis on developing intuition. However, some criticize the excessive self-promotion and links to the author's website throughout the book. While beginners find it informative and helpful, more experienced readers may find it basic. The book's format and lack of in-depth card meanings are noted. Despite these drawbacks, many readers recommend it as a valuable resource for those starting their tarot journey.
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