In the world of tarot reading, many practitioners share stories about how their tarot deck seems to have a personality—sometimes even a sarcastic or mean one. While these anecdotes can be amusing, they might indicate a deeper issue.
If your deck feels neglected or disrespected, it won’t give you the guidance you seek. Here are some essential steps to build a better relationship with your tarot deck and ensure it feels cherished and valued.
Create a Sacred Space for Your Tarot Readings
One of the first steps to mending your relationship with your tarot deck is to create a clean and sacred space for your readings. Tarot decks are sensitive to their surroundings, and a cluttered, dirty environment can make them feel neglected. You don’t need to clean your entire home, but dedicating a special, tidy space for your tarot work is crucial.
Clean Your Reading Area: Ensure your reading table is free from dust and clutter. A quick wipe down of the surface and a sweep of the surrounding floor will suffice. This simple act shows respect for your deck and sets a conducive environment for a clear reading.
Protect Your Cards: When a card jumps out during a reading, it shouldn’t land in a dirty or hazardous spot. Keeping your area clean ensures your cards stay in good condition, which in turn shows your deck that you care about its wellbeing.
Approach Your Tarot Deck with Respect
Tarot readings are a sacred practice, an interaction with energies greater than ourselves. Just as people dress up for formal occasions, you should present yourself respectfully when working with your tarot deck.
Personal Cleanliness: At the very least, make sure your hands are clean before you touch your cards. Tie back your hair if necessary to avoid distractions. This small ritual can show your deck that you are taking the reading seriously and that you respect the process.
Mental Preparation: Before a reading, take a few moments to center yourself. Deep breathing, dimming the lights, playing soothing music, or drinking a glass of water can help you prepare mentally and spiritually. A calm and focused mind is more receptive to the messages your tarot deck wants to share.
Respect the Energy of Your Tarot Deck
Tarot decks are believed to hold their own energy. They respond best when they feel respected and understood. Here’s how you can ensure your deck feels valued.
Avoid Skeptical Audiences: While offering free readings to friends and family can be great practice, be selective about who you read for. Skeptics who openly ridicule or subconsciously reject tarot can negatively affect your deck’s energy. Tarot decks thrive on positive, open-minded interactions.
Treat Your Deck as a Partner: View your deck as a partner in your spiritual journey rather than just a tool. This shift in perspective can foster a more positive and productive relationship. When you approach your deck with genuine curiosity and respect, it will reciprocate.
Welcome Your Tarot Deck into Your Life
Whether your deck is brand new or second-hand, it’s essential to make it feel welcomed and valued.
Introduce Yourself: Upon acquiring a new deck, spend time getting to know it. Handle each card, familiarize yourself with the artwork, and connect with the deck’s energy. Introduce yourself and set intentions for your future readings together.
Promise Care and Protection: Let your deck know that it will be cared for and protected. If your deck is second-hand, it may have felt neglected or rejected by previous owners. Reassure it that it has found a new, appreciative home.
Engage in Rituals to Enhance Your Connection
Incorporating rituals into your tarot practice can deepen your connection with your deck and ensure it feels cherished.
Regular Cleansing: Cleanse your deck regularly to remove any negative energy it might have absorbed. This can be done using methods such as smudging with sage, placing it under moonlight, or using crystals like clear quartz or selenite.
Meditation with Your Deck: Spend time meditating with your deck. Hold it in your hands, close your eyes, and focus on building a strong, intuitive connection. Visualize a flow of positive energy between you and the deck.
FAQs for Caring for Your Tarot Deck
Why does my tarot deck feel off?
If your deck feels off, it might be due to negative energy or lack of respect. Ensure you are creating a clean, sacred space and handling your deck with care and reverence.
How often should I cleanse my deck?
There’s no strict rule, but many readers cleanse their decks monthly or after particularly intense readings. Listen to your intuition and cleanse as needed, but do not cleanse it just because it feels “off.” Address underlying issues rather than defaulting to this.
Can I use my deck for multiple people?
Yes, but make sure to cleanse your deck between readings for different people to maintain its energy and accuracy.
Deepening Your Tarot Practice
As you build a better relationship with your tarot deck, consider ways to deepen your practice and understanding.
Study the Symbolism: Dive deeper into the symbolism of each card. Understanding the historical and cultural context of the imagery can enrich your readings and your connection with the deck.
Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Make tarot reading a regular part of your spiritual practice to keep your skills sharp and your connection strong.
A tarot deck is more than just a set of cards; it’s a partner in your spiritual journey. By treating your deck with respect and care, you can build a deep and rewarding relationship. Ensure your reading space is clean, approach your deck with reverence, and take the time to cleanse and connect with your deck regularly.
When you show your tarot deck the love and respect it deserves, it will return the favor with clearer, more insightful readings.
