Avoid This Number One Tarot Reading Mistake

Do you know the number one Tarot reading mistake? Today we look at this common mistake and what to do to avoid it.
avoid the number one tarot reading mistake

Have you turned cards over or tuned into a YouTube pick-a-pile Tarot reading to soothe anxiety? Yeah, me too. We’ve all done it. But please stop this number one Tarot reading mistake now! Here’s the problem with coming to the Tarot from a place full of fear: the Tarot is a mirror for the soul. This means that the Tarot readings you do when you are anxious and fearful could put you in a negative feedback loop.

However, there is no need to beat yourself up if you have been using the Tarot to self-soothe. Working with the Tarot is a never-ending learning journey. There are many things I as a Tarot reader could improve to make my readings even better, even after reading professionally for 14 years. When I first started reading the Tarot, I used it the way most of us use it. I picked up the cards because I was curious about a love interest or worried about a relationship. Most of the readings I have done as a professional also fall into that category and a combination of relationship worries + anxiety.

The point is the first thing we should strive to improve is to avoid reading the cards when we are feeling anxious, worried or fearful.

Essentially, there are three ways to use the Tarot:

  • Proactively, looking at how to make the most of your talents and opportunities coming your way
  • For healing and restoring harmony
  • Reactively, to seek certainty about things beyond your control

I want you to remember this the next time you go looking for readings on your favourite social media platform. Pay attention to readers trying to hook you with a fear hook. I promise you that nothing they say after that will actually help you grow as a person, nor will it redeem the situation you are facing. It’s essentially a way of giving your power away.

Do This Instead

So how can you avoid the number one Tarot reading mistake and what should you do instead of getting a reading when you are anxious? The first thing you should do is calm the mind. More information (a reading is more information) does not calm the mind.

1. Grounding Techniques

Grounding brings your focus to the present moment, helping to reduce feelings of overwhelm. Try:

  • 5-4-3-2-1 Technique: Identify 5 things you see, 4 things you touch, 3 things you hear, 2 things you smell, and 1 thing you taste.
  • Breathing with a Stone: Hold a smooth stone in your hand and focus on its texture while taking slow, deep breaths.

2. Breathing Exercises

Controlled breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping you relax. Try:

  • Box Breathing: Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts, exhale for 4 counts, hold for 4 counts. Repeat for 1-2 minutes.
  • 4-7-8 Breathing: Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 7 counts, and exhale for 8 counts.

3. Gentle Movement or Physical Release

Physical activity can release tension and shift your focus. Try:

  • Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Slowly tense and release each muscle group, starting from your toes and moving upward.
  • A Quick Walk or Stretching: Moving your body helps release pent-up energy and reduces the intensity of anxious feelings.

How Do I Know I’m Ready for A Reading?

You will know that are ready to read about your situation when you feel that you can trust that whatever happens is happening for you rather than to you.

5 Proactive Approaches to Avoid the Number One Tarot Reading Mistake

1. Set a Clear Intention Before the Reading

Setting a clear intention is crucial for a focused and meaningful tarot reading. Take a few moments to ground yourself and reflect on your purpose for the reading. This process helps to align your energy with the cards and opens you up to receive guidance.

When formulating your intention, consider asking empowering questions that promote growth and positive action. For example, “What is the lesson I need to learn right now?” or “What strength or quality should I embrace at this time?” These types of questions shift your focus from fear or uncertainty to solutions and personal development.

2. Practice Emotional Neutrality

Achieving emotional neutrality before a reading is essential for clear interpretation. Begin by taking a few deep breaths to centre yourself. You might also consider a short meditation to calm your mind and balance your energy.

Visualisation techniques can be particularly effective. Try imagining a protective bubble of white light surrounding you and your cards, creating a safe space for your reading. Remember that the cards are tools for insight and guidance, not instruments of judgment or fear.

3. Reframe Negative Cards as Opportunities

Instead of fearing challenging cards, view them as guides for growth and transformation. Each card, even those traditionally seen as negative, offers valuable lessons and opportunities for personal development.

For instance, if you draw the Tower card, rather than interpreting it as a sign of impending disaster, see it as a necessary catalyst for positive change in your life. This reframing allows you to approach the reading with curiosity and openness rather than apprehension.

4. Develop a Daily Practice of Confidence Building

Building confidence in your intuitive abilities is an ongoing process. Consider keeping a tarot journal where you record your readings and reflect on how their insights have helped you in your daily life. This practice not only improves your card interpretation skills but also strengthens your trust in the process.

Additionally, regular meditation or energy work can help balance your chakras and enhance your intuitive abilities. These practices contribute to a more centred and confident approach to tarot reading.

5. Avoid Loaded Questions

The quality of your tarot reading often depends on the questions you ask. Avoid negatively framed or loaded questions that might skew your interpretation or reinforce fears.

Instead of asking, “Will I fail/succeed at my new job?”, try rephrasing it as, “What can I do to ensure success in my new position?” This approach focuses on proactive steps and personal agency rather than potential negative outcomes.

By implementing these strategies, you can create a more proactive, insightful, and empowering Tarot reading experience. Remember, the cards are tools for self-reflection and growth, and approaching them with a balanced and open mindset will yield the most beneficial results. If you want to learn more about avoiding common Tarot reading mistakes, please check The Top 5 Love Tarot Reading Mistakes and CLICK HERE for a Beginner’s Guide to the Buzzing World of Tarot.

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