Brigit Esselmont's Blog, page 22

The Release and Let Go Tarot Spread

Tight stomach. Racing heartbeat. Tense shoulders. Shaky hands.

Ever felt this when something has just happened and you feel stressed, anxious, angry, resentful, up-tight, or worried?

For some reason, I’ve had a spell of these events lately. Events where such strong emotions have suddenly risen up and I’m left carrying around all of these horrible, negative feelings that I just can’t seem to shake for days. And when it just starts to subside, the issue resurfaces and I go through it all again.

Do I care too much? Am I too emotionally invested? Do I need to practice more detachment? How can I free myself from these negative emotions?

If only there was a way I could easily and effortlessly release and let go, as soon as I felt that wave of negative energy run through me.

Well, there is. It’s call the Release and Let Go Spread.

The Release and Let Go Tarot Spread

The main idea with the Release and Let Go Tarot spread is to first shine a light on the negative feelings that exist now. By doing this, we give it a name and we bring it up big. We then focus on how we can release and let go, rising above the situation, and eventually what good will come out of it and what new beginnings can be created to bring positivity back into our lives again.

This is one of those rare Tarot spreads that I recommend doing while you are feeling very emotional and the feelings are still very ‘raw’. It will help you to bring peace to your present state of being and take you out of that panicked state.

Here is the seven-card Tarot spread:

My Personal Release and Let Go Reading

As I am currently feeling a lot of those strong emotions right now, what better time to use the Release and Let Go Tarot spread.

Now, just a moment as I get myself comfortable in the therapist’s chaise lounge and expose my inner mind… *smile*

Here are the cards I drew:

What am I feeling right now – Eight of Pentacles reversedWhy am I feeling it so strong – Tower reversedHow can I release this feeling – Seven of Pentacles reversedWhat is the feeling transforming into – Nine of CupsHow can I rise above – Knight of Wands reversedWhat is my new beginning – Fool reversedWhat have I learned – Ten of Swords reversed

Notice all of those reversed Tarot cards?! Perhaps the timing just isn’t right or perhaps this is a sign that the emotions are still very raw. That said, the Release and Let Go spread is intended for that moment in time when you do really feel it and you do need something to give you answers while you work on releasing and letting go. I also see it as a sign that now is a good time to bring my attention inwards and to focus on what I can learn from this situation at hand.

The Eight of Pentacles reversed shows that I have been working very hard on something but I have suddenly come to a point where it is clear I have been working on the wrong thing! I have been investing energy into something that is now counter-productive. I’m also quite a perfectionist, so when something stops me in my tracks, as it has done, I feel quite confronted that I haven’t been getting it right first time. So I see the feeling has a lot to do with my approach to my work and my profession.

The Tower reversed. Well! I’m not going to let it topple me over, but it’s pretty close to just collapsing everything! If the Tower card was upright, then perhaps I would be seeing it as an ‘end of the world’ type of situation, but I see the reversal as an indication that I can still retain some perspective on the situation. I can see that this is an impactful situation, but I am going to keep grounded as much as possible.

With both the reversed Seven and Eight of Pentacles, there is clearly some sadness here around investing in something and working very hard, but not seeing the intended result. The way to release and let go of this situation is to re-assess where I am investing my energy and making sure that it is where I will see the best results. It’s hard, because I thought I was doing the right thing, so I’m sad to see that it has potentially lead to nothing. But perhaps it’s just time to accept this and move on. I can return to the Six of Pentacles and continue to give as much as possible to the community and this will be what brings satisfaction and reward.

The Nine of Cups is a very positive and uplifting sign that all’s well that ends well. Out of a tough situation, I have the power to come away feeling good about what I do have, rather than what I don’t have. I know there is a positive side to my current situation and that has to do with all the support I have received along the way. If I focus on this, the rest will just fade away and will be replaced by feelings of gratitude and contentment.

The reversed Knight of Wands advises me not to act impulsively now. I’m at risk of doing something off the cuff and just because I’ve had a flash of an idea and I’m straight into action. This is a good reminder to pause and think before I act. (I definitely need to listen to my own advice!)

Oh wow, the reversed Fool for new beginnings. It’s as if the timing for a new beginning is not now, but a little later. Perhaps I should wait and not act, following the advice of the reversed Knight of Wands. The new beginning will come to me when the timing is better.

And finally, what have I learned? No matter how many times I get knocked down, I will always rise up and keep persevering. Yes it hurts and yes I feel gutted each time I go through a major setback, but I won’t let it stand in my way. There will be more positive change on its way which will help to kickstart a new cycle.

You know what? I do actually feel better after having done this reading and having had explored my emotions, moving from the negative emotion itself to the point of release and the new start that comes out of it.

Thanks for listening.

UPDATE: A few days have passed and I can gladly say, so have the emotions. The spread definitely helped in the process, as did time. All things going well, this may actually turn into a new opportunity rather than a major disappointment. Time will tell! (That’s the reversed Tower and Fool playing out beautifully.)

The post The Release and Let Go Tarot Spread appeared first on Biddy Tarot.

Make the Most of Your Year with a New Year Tarot Spread

It’s that time of the year again when many of us go into a mad panic thinking, “Where on earth did the year go? And what’s up ahead in the new year?”

I can’t help but wonder if people allow the year to disappear without really living it or being truly present in every moment.

So, don’t let another year just pass you by. We’re only here for a limited time, so make the most of every day, every week, and every month of the new year and the rest of your life.

This is where working with the Tarot can help. Using a New Years Tarot spread, you can get insight into what to expect for the year ahead, and where you need to focus your attention to get the most out of this fresh new year.

The New Year Tarot Spread

My twelve-card New Year Tarot spread is perfect for acknowledging the energies that are passing out of your life and the energies that are coming into your life. It looks at what you can expect and prepare for in the key areas of your life (love, career, health and spirituality or personal development) and provides you a point of focus for the year ahead.

Here’s the spread:  

Let’s break it down…

Cards 1 & 2 look at the energies that are passing out of your life and what you can carry forward with you into the new year. Even with a seemingly negative card in the first position or a challenging past year, you can always take away an important life lesson with you, which will appear at Card 2.

Keep in mind that often when a reversed card appears as a life lesson, the lesson is yet to be understood or revealed and often you will need to return to the energy of the previous card to move forward. You may spend the first part of the new year working on understanding this lesson on a deeper level. What’s more, a Major Arcana card in the life lesson position will be an indication of a very powerful, life-changing lesson that will carry through with you into the next year.

Card 3 looks at your aspirations for the year ahead and what it is you truly want to achieve. A Major Arcana card will indicate a desire for a major life change or mindset shift. A Court Card will indicate the type of person you want to be. A Minor Arcana card may indicate what actual endeavours you want to accomplish. A reversal or a ‘negative’ card in this position may actually highlight what it is you want to avoid or change in your life. For example, the reversed Three of Cups may signify the desire to let go of an excessive party lifestyle or unfulfilling friendships.

Card 4 & 5 look at what will empower you and challenge you as you work towards your aspiration. What energy can you harness to make the most of the year ahead? What energy may potentially stand in your way? By understanding the challenges, you can plan ahead and deal with potential issues as they arise, rather than having them take you by surprise.

Cards 6 to 9 focus on the key areas in your life and what you can expect in each. You don’t have to stick to these areas. Think about what your main priorities are for the year ahead and draw a card for each. I recommend limiting it to 6 priorities, to keep your reading focused. Look out for Major Arcana cards that show where the bulk of the energy will be.

Card 10 provides a focus point for the year ahead. So often, we get caught up with day-to-day dramas that we lose sight of the bigger picture. Use this focus card to keep you on track and pinpoint what energy you most need to tap into throughout the next twelve months.

Card 11 shows you the lesson you will learn over the coming year. Just like the previous year’s lesson, a Major Arcana shows a life-changing lesson, a reversed card shows a lesson that you’re not quite ‘getting’ and a Minor Arcana card shows a challenge or an actual endeavour that you’re working on.

And finally, Card 12 highlights what to expect for the whole year. This is like the Outcome card in a Celtic Cross reading. Look back at the aspiration for the year (Card 3) and compare this with the outcome – will you achieve your aspiration? Will you overcome the challenges along the way (Card 5)? Will you harness the energy that will help you to get where you need to be (Card 4)?

Overall, look for the opportunities for the year ahead to see how you can make the most of the year. What needs your attention? What needs to be ‘tweaked’ in order to have your best year yet?

For more Tarot spreads and journaling prompts, check out the Biddy Tarot Planner and manifest an amazing year ahead!

The post Make the Most of Your Year with a New Year Tarot Spread appeared first on Biddy Tarot.

The Best Tarot Decks and Resources for Beginners

I believe the Tarot reflects back to us what we already know within ourselves – our inner wisdom.

We may already be consciously aware of the message or insight we receive in a Tarot reading, in which case, the reading can be a heartening confirmation of what we already know. Or, we might be completely unaware of the message – until now.

It’s as if the Tarot cards create the instant connection to our subconscious minds so we can access what we already know deep within, and bring it into our conscious awareness where we can now take action. Neat, right?!

If you’re new to Tarot – and want to explore more of it so you can connect in to your subconscious mind, you’re going to need a deck (of course), as well as some great reference guides and courses. There are also lots of gorgeous Tarot accessories available these days, which make your Tarot journey even more fun! Here are my recommendations on the best Tarot decks and resources for beginners.

The Best Tarot Decks for Beginners

Choosing a Tarot deck can be incredibly overwhelming. There are literally hundreds of different Tarot decks to choose from, all with their own symbolism, energy, stories, mythology and artwork.

So, where do you begin? How do you sift through the vast array of choices to find your perfect Tarot deck? Well, that’s another blog post entirely, but these decks are where I would start if I were just learning.

Radiant Rider-Waite Tarot

The Radiant Rider-Waite is an updated and more vibrant version of the classic Rider-Waite Tarot. The Rider-Waite is what most Tarot books, decks, and systems are based from, so it’s hands down the best deck for beginners. You’ll notice that I use the Radiant Rider-Waite all over this website.

I use the Radiant Rider Waite for teaching Tarot and reading Tarot professionally.

Sometimes, however, I like to change things up, depending on the client and the question asked, and may dip into my Tarot deck collection. For personal readings, I often have a ‘deck of the month’ –a particular Tarot deck I’m loving and exploring, all within the safety of my personal readings.

 

Everyday Tarot

My very own deck, this one of course is close to my heart. The Everyday Tarot mini-deck is a fresh take on the Rider Waite deck. Beautifully illustrated by Eleanor Grosch, Everyday Tarot brings a new perspective to the cards, giving modern soul-seekers the tools they need to access their inner wisdom and create an inspired life. The cards are slightly smaller than average Tarot cards, fitting perfectly into your palm and purse for easy shuffling and transport.

The Gaian Tarot

This is a beautiful, healing deck with imagery that is easy to read and interpret. It’s got a very soulful, earthy, and grounded energy. And the guidebook is one of the best out there.

The Wild Unknown Tarot 

Kim Krans’ Wild Unknown Tarot is a modern homage to the Rider Waite deck (and is absolutely gorgeous). This deck has taken the world by storm. It’s one of the most Instagrammable decks out there – and in fact – you can find it sold in Urban Outfitters and other major retailers!

 

 

OK Tarot

At first glance, it’s easy to see that the OK Tarot is modern, cute and light-hearted but the true genius lies in its simplicity. Adam J. Kurtz’s hand-drawn illustrations cut straight to the chase, making the deck super accessible for beginners.

 

The Best Tarot Resources for Beginners 

If you’ve ever learned Tarot with me or read much of this blog, you’ll know there is one thing I insist every Tarot student does:

“Put the book down!” 

I truly believe it’s important to develop your own connection with the cards and your intuition while you’re learning Tarot.  That said, it can be daunting to do that with no reference guide at all. So, while the goal is to create your own interpretations of the Tarot cards, it can be helpful to have a few good ‘go to’ resources when it comes to reading Tarot.

As you start to build your Tarot library, think about what books and websites will be most helpful for providing you with a trusted source of information about Tarot card meanings and Tarot reading techniques. Don’t be afraid to try different websites, books, courses and guides until you find something that really resonates with you.

If you have no idea where to start, I’ve put together a list of resources I have found super helpful for beginner Tarot readers:

The Ultimate Guide to Tarot Card Meanings  

Ever wished you could have instant access to all the Tarot card meanings for nearly every type of reading…Love, career, finance, spirituality and more? It’s all inside The Ultimate Guide. This is a fresh, modern, practical guide to the meanings of every Tarot card (upright and reversed) without the fluff…that’s easy to use, too!

Available as either a digital download or a paperback book.

Master the Tarot Card Meanings

One of the most overwhelming things about learning Tarot is the feeling that you need to memorise all possible meanings for all 78 cards.  In this course I teach you how to instantly and intuitively interpret the 78 cards in a Tarot deck without memorisation.

Learning Tarot doesn’t have to be hard, complicated or stressful.  There is a way to interpret and make sense of it all without getting bogged down – if you want to be guided through this process, join Master the Tarot Card Meanings and make your Tarot readings a snap.

 

Everyday Tarot: Unlock Your Inner Wisdom and Manifest Your Future

Everyday Tarot is a practical guide, filled with actionable tips, soulful activities and loads of Tarot spreads to help you access your intuition and manifest your goals and dreams in your everyday life. You’ll discover how to use the Tarot to manifest your wildest dreams, create love-fueled relationships, set and achieve your goals, fulfill your soul’s purpose in work and life, make important decisions, and bring the Divine into your life through everyday rituals.

Biddy Tarot Planner

The Biddy Tarot Planner is an annual planner designed to help you envision your goals, align with your highest intentions, and bring your dreams to life, using intuition and Tarot as your guide. 

Complete with spreads, rituals, monthly Tarot themes and DIY weekly Tarot forecasts, this Planner is the ideal place to start journaling your Tarot experience.

Biddy Tarot Community

One of the fastest ways to boost your Tarot reading confidence is to practice your skills and engage in mindful discussion with other Tarot enthusiasts.

The Biddy Tarot Community has been designed to provide a space for Tarot readers of all levels to do just that.

This is a global community of over 1,500 modern soul-seekers who are improving their Tarot reading skills and connecting more deeply to their intuition in their everyday lives.

Inside the Community, you’ll have access to 25+ Tarot Topics & Masterclasses, Free Tarot Reading platform to practice your skills, 50+ Tarot Resources including spreads, charts and worksheets, and our 1500+ member-led discussion forum.

It’s all designed to help you boost your Tarot reading confidence and connect you with your Tarot tribe.

As always, for beginners and professionals alike, I recommend your intuition as the greatest resource in your Tarot journey. However, if you want guidance or support in accessing your inner wisdom and how to connect with your Tarot cards, these decks and resources are a perfect place to start.

 

The post The Best Tarot Decks and Resources for Beginners appeared first on Biddy Tarot.

How to Interpret Reversed Tarot Cards Without the Doom and Gloom

A few years ago, I was sitting at a table with some of the best Tarot readers in Australia. We were chatting casually about the Tarot and how we love to connect with the cards.

But then the topic of reversed Tarot cards came up and the mood changed completely.

“What? You read with reversals?! Why on earth would you want to do that?”

“Ugh, I never read with reversals. They’re so negative.”

“Reversals – no thanks. I don’t need all that depressing energy in my Tarot readings.”

The whole table of Tarot readers were dead set against using reversed Tarot cards in their readings.

Except me.

You see, I LOVE reversed Tarot cards. They bring an extra layer of depth and insight to my Tarot readings that I can’t get from upright cards.

But, I also understand why these Tarot readers were avoiding reversals like the plague.

Look up a reversed Tarot card meaning in a Tarot book and you’ll often find words like “betrayal”, “deception”, “treachery”, and “manipulation”. Not exactly the kind of vibe you want to give your Tarot readings, right?

So why do I LOVE reversed Tarot cards when many Tarot readers do not?

Because the way I read with reversals is very different to how many other Tarot readers read reversals.

In this blog post, I’m going to show you how to interpret reversed Tarot cards, without the doom and gloom.

If you’ve avoided reversed Tarot cards in the past, today’s the day to breathe new life into reversals and use them in positive and empowering ways in your Tarot readings.

Why Read With Reversed Tarot Cards?

If you’re a Tarot beginner, you might be wondering why on earth you would want to read with reversed Tarot cards and double the amount of information you need to learn to become a good Tarot reader.

I get it – I totally do.

But here’s the thing. You don’t have to learn another 78 Tarot card meanings to master reversed Tarot cards.

You only need to learn the methods that will help you take the upright energy of the card and apply it to the reversed energy of the card. Simple as that. (And I’ll show you how in this post.)

And once you master those few methods for interpreting reversed Tarot cards, here’s what’s possible for you…

You can double your insight and expand your understanding of what the Tarot cards mean for you in a reading.

You can see the light and shade of a situation and identify where to release any blocks.

You can delve into what’s happening within you versus what’s happening around you – perfect for knowing where to make the most impactful changes.

And you can even get a simple Yes or No in your Tarot readings.

Do you have to read with reversed to be a good Tarot reader?

No.

However, reading with reversed Tarot cards opens up a whole new layer to your Tarot readings and provides the opportunity to go even deeper with your intuitive insights.

Let me show you how.

4 of My Favourite Ways to Interpret Reversed Tarot Cards

Here are 4 of my all-time favourite methods for interpreting reversed Tarot cards.

I’ve chosen these methods because…

They offer a balanced perspective – not all ‘doom and gloom’ but not all sugary-sweet either.
They serve to empower the client.
They are simple to learn and apply in your readings.
They work!

These are the exact same methods I use in my personal and professional Tarot readings, and that I teach to my students in my Tarot training courses.

Method #1: Internalised Energy

At the heart of it, Tarot cards are energy.

Each and every card is an expression of energy in its many different formats.

For example, the Empress is an expression of abundance, fertility and the mother energy. When we encounter the Empress in our everyday lives, we might experience her energy as nurturing and taking care of others or successfully bringing a new project to life.

An upright Tarot card represents ‘externally expressed energy’. That is, the energy of that Tarot card is expressed outwardly into the world and is experienced in your external environment and in your relationships with people and situations.

On the other hand, reversed Tarot cards are internally expressed energy. That is, energy that is held within ourselves or that is more private or even secretive.

For example, the upright Empress may represent taking care of others, whereas the reversed Empress may represent taking care of yourself.

To simplify the method, take the upright meaning of the Tarot card, and then add “self” or “private” to the interpretation.

What I love most about this technique is that there is no ‘good’ or ‘bad’ message here (unlike the traditional reversed card meanings which focus on the opposite of the upright card meaning). It’s simply where the energy is being felt.

This technique can also show where changes need to be made or where action needs to be taken. If your Tarot reading is mostly upright cards, then you know you’re dealing with external situations and your relationships with others. If your Tarot reading is mostly reversed cards, then you know you’re dealing with yourself and any required actions or changes need to happen within you first.

Method #2: Too Much or Too Little Energy

Reversed Tarot cards can often point to an imbalance in energy. That is, there is too much or too little of the energy.

Take the Queen of Wands, for example. Upright, she represents a confident person who enjoys social situations. However, what does this look like when there is too much or too little of this energy?

Perhaps she is over-confident and domineering, especially in social settings (too much of the Queen of Wands energy). Or perhaps she is a wall-flower or a ‘shrinking violet’ when in a room with others (too little of the Queen of Wands energy).

When I’m reading the cards in this way for a client, I’ll often pose it as a question. For example, “What role does confidence in social settings play for you? Do you feel over-confident, or are you lacking confidence?”

And, I’ll often add, “How can you make confidence in social settings work for you?” That is, how can you bring this energy back into balance and alignment? (Super empowering, right?!)

Method #3: Blocked Energy

This method is similar to the ‘too much or too little’ energy, with a slight difference.

Energy can often appear in our lives, but it gets blocked or isn’t being expressed in the most constructive way possible.

For example, the reversed Temperance card may indicate that you are seeking out moderation and harmony in your life but right now, there’s a blockage to fully experiencing that energy in a positive way.

Ask, “What’s getting in the way of you achieving moderation and harmony?” That is, identify what is blocking the energy.

Then, ask, “How can you release any blockages associated with moderation and harmony?” Perhaps you need to reconnect with the mantra, “Everything in moderation”. Perhaps you need to pick your battles to create more harmony. Perhaps you need to let go of the expectation that there will always be perfect harmony in all things.

To find the answers to these questions, you may simply have an open dialogue, or you may pose these questions to the Tarot to see what comes up.

Method #4: Upside-Down Imagery

I love working with the pictures in the Tarot cards, especially when I want to connect more intuitively with the situation.

If a Tarot card appears in the reversed position, look at the imagery of that upside-down card and see what comes to you intuitively.

For example, in the Ten of Swords reversed, it appears as if the swords are falling out of the man’s back. Perhaps the pain that has been inflicted in the past is now finally being released and the client can move forward into a new cycle (especially since this is a Ten – the end of a cycle).

Or in the reversed Page of Pentacles, the coin looks as if it might slip out of the man’s hands. His grip is not very tight and he doesn’t seem to be concentrating. Perhaps it is a sign that without the necessary discipline and focus, money is just slipping out of your hands.

This is a particularly powerful technique for interpreting reversed Tarot cards, especially if you’re a visual person. The images often create an instant link between your conscious and unconscious mind, helping you to connect with your intuition.

So there you have it – 4 of my favourite methods for interpreting reversed Tarot cards.

If you want to truly master the reversed Tarot cards and learn not just 4, but all 8 methods, then you’ll love my online Tarot training program, Master the Tarot Card Meanings.

In my signature program, I’ll show you how to interpret upright and reversed Tarot cards from the heart, not just the book. And I’ll teach you the ‘must know’ systems that sit behind the Tarot cards that make learning Tarot super easy. By the end of the program, you’ll have what it takes to become a confident and intuitive Tarot reader who everyone raves about!

How Do You Know Which Method to Use?

Now, with so many different ways to interpret a reversed Tarot card, you’re probably scratching your head and wondering, “How on earth am I going to know which method to use and when?!”

Well, that’s why it takes years and years of practice to become a good Tarot reader! Nonetheless, here are a few tips to help you know which method to use:

Mentally agree to use one method only

Tell the Universe prior to a reading how you are choosing to read reversals. For example, “I am going to interpret all reversals in this reading as blockages.”

This way, the Universe will present your message to you through the most relevant cards, given that you are interpreting them in a certain way.

Go with your gut instinct

Sometimes you just ‘know’ what the card refers to. Your intuition may be guiding you towards a specific interpretation, or you may be drawn to a combination of interpretations as listed above.

Look at the other cards in the reading

Look for themes across the different cards in the spread you are using. For example, the Four of Cups reversed combined with the Hermit may suggest that your client is spending too much time alone and shut off from the world around them. On the other hand, the Four of Cups reversed combined with the Nine of Cups reversed may indicate that your client has lost their connection with their inner selves and exterior opportunities are also unfulfilling.

Draw on Your Personal Experience

Sometimes, it really does just come down to experience. For example, I know now that whenever I see the Three of Cups reversed in a relationship reading, nine times out of ten it indicates that there is a third person involved and it is usually the client who is that third person.

To help you build your own experience, seek feedback from your clients to understand how the cards are playing out in their lives. Do this not only during or directly after the reading, but also a few weeks or months later. Find out how a particular card came to life for you or your client and understand what it looked and felt like.

How to Start Reading with Reversed Tarot Cards

Now that you have 4 simple yet powerful methods for interpreting reversed Tarot cards, let’s get you reading with reversals straight away!

First, you need to decide if you are laying out the Tarot cards to face you or your client.

There’s no ‘right’ answer – simply choose what feels right for you. But, make sure you decide before you start to lay out those cards so you know what’s upright and what’s reversed.

My preference? I like to read the cards facing me and then I’ll show the client the cards as I talk about them.

Next, you need to get some reversed cards into your Tarot deck.

My favourite method is to cut the deck into three piles. Turn one pile from top to toe, 180 degrees, so that those upright cards will become reversed cards, and vice versa. Then put all the piles back together and shuffle. Then do the reading.

Or you might prefer to do a ‘messy pile’ shuffle by spreading the cards out on a table haphazardly and moving them all around before picking them back up into a neat pile.

Or something else! Again, there is no ‘right’ way of shuffling. Choose what feels best to you.

Now you’re ready to rock ‘n roll with reversed cards in your reading.

And if you want to take your Tarot readings to a deeper, more profound level, check out my online Tarot training program, Master the Tarot Card Meanings.

 

The post How to Interpret Reversed Tarot Cards Without the Doom and Gloom appeared first on Biddy Tarot.

Tarot Card Combinations

Creating the various Tarot card combinations has been one of my favourite activities ever since I wrote my eBook, The Ultimate Guide to Tarot Card Meanings. Combining Tarot cards enables you to see the interactions between different cards in a way that may strengthen a specific meaning, add some ‘light and shade’ to a meaning, or give it a different meaning altogether. It’s an activity that can be enjoyed by Tarot beginners right through to Tarot experts, adding a completely new dimension to the practice of Tarot reading. It helps the reader create a true ‘story’ from the cards and encourages a more integrated view of Tarot card reading. 

 

In this post, I provide you with some suggested techniques on how you can create your own Tarot card combinations. 

How to Create Your Own Tarot Card Combinations 

Working with Tarot card combinations requires you to first select a pair or group of Tarot cards, then develop the meaning and interpretation for those Tarot cards when combined. Let’s take a deeper look at how to do this. 

Select Your Tarot Card Combinations 

There are two main ways to select your Tarot card combinations – a random draw or a more ‘conscious’ selection of the cards. 

 A random draw means that you randomly select two or more cards from your deck and then start working with the meaning associated with that grouping of cards. 

 A ‘conscious’ selection means that you draw one Tarot card from your deck, and then consciously choose other Tarot cards that aligns with your selected card. Consider the general meaning of the card you are studying, and ask yourself which other Tarot cards: 

reinforce the card’s meaning? 
oppose the card’s meaning? 
give this card a completely different meaning? 

Use these ‘thought starters’ to help you choose other cards that tie in to the selected card. 

Develop Meanings for the Tarot Card Combinations 

Once you have selected your pair of Tarot cards, then you can begin to explore the various interpretations for those cards. Start with the following questions to help you to develop your Tarot card combination meanings: 

What do these two cards mean together? 
How do the energies of these cards interact with one another? 
How do the cards reinforce or oppose each other? 

Let’s see an example in action. Here’s a fun combo: The Seven of Cups and the Fool. 

 What do these two cards mean together?  

One interpretation could be that you’re faced with several different options and not sure what to pick (Seven of Cups), but you know you’re ready to strike out on a new path (the Fool) and once you make a choice there will be no stopping you. 

 How do the energies of these cards interact with one another?  

Well, the Seven of Cups carries a bit of stuck energy. We can get so lost in the myriad choices that we resist moving forward. And the Fool carries forward momentum. A new adventure awaits! So, the energies compete with one other, but also complement each other because they can help create an apropos balance. The Fool and his desire for motion is sure to get the Seven of Cups energy unstuck. 

 How do the cards reinforce or oppose each other?  

While the energy of reflection in the Seven of Cups may appear to compete with the adventurous go-getter energy of the Fool, notice how both figures are looking up. The person in the Seven of Cups at the choice he must make, and the Fool at the world that awaits him. The most successful ventures are well planned, and the Seven of Cups holds the Fool back until the appropriate time, while the Fool makes sure we don’t get weighed down with options and stagnate. 

 Consider the Interactions

Suits – for example, how does a Cups card interact with a Pentacles card? 

Consider the tarot pairing of the Queen of Cups with the King of Pentacles. If this were a relationship match it could pair pretty well! The Queen of Cups is keeper of emotional intelligence when not in her shadow aspect, while the King of Pentacles is master of the earth. Water (Queen of Cups) and earth (King of Pentacles) mix quite well, and chances are the ‘garden’ of the relationship will thrive. 

Minor / Major Arcana – how does a Minor Arcana card interact with a Major Arcana card? 

We saw that in our example above. The Seven of Cups (a Minor Arcana card) held the Fool back a bit from too much impulsivity, while the Fool (the Major Arcana card) helped move the decision-making process along. 

Numbers – for example, how does a Two interact with a Nine? (See my post on Tarot and Numerology for more insight into the significance of numbers in Tarot.) 

In this instance, a Two can indicate being at a crossroads and determining what path to take forward, while a Nine can represent that you’re almost at your destination/goal. Put them both together and you have one last decision that needs to be made before you cross the finish line. 

Symbols – what symbols are common across the selected cards and what does this signify? 

Let’s say, for instance, that you pull Judgement and the Lovers, two cards that feature angels prominently. Chances are high that divine guidance is coming in strong with a message. 

People – how do the people featured on the cards interact with one another? For example, is it a male and a female? Or is it a Page and a King? How would these people ‘talk’ with each other? Would they get along or would they compete with one another? What is the significance of the direction they face? 

Let’s go back to our Queen of Cups/King of Pentacles pairing. We’ve got male and female energies here that could very likely stand in for actual people in a given circumstance. They are on the same playing field as King and Queen. The earthly emphasis of the King of Pentacles may pair very well with the watery characteristics of the Queen of Cups, as water helps the earth flourish with life. Notice, however, how focused the King of Pentacles is on his pentacle (his earthly desires and duties) and the Queen of Cups is on her ornate cup (her emotions and creative inspirations). They might be so concentrated on their own undertakings and proclivities, that they fail to connect in a meaningful or sustainable way. 

 You can add a further layer by looking at various Tarot card combinations in different contexts. Randomly draw a pair of Tarot cards and then identify the various meanings or interactions for, say, a relationship reading, a career reading, a spiritual reading, and so on. 

 You can also use these methods for both upright and reversed Tarot card combinations. And if you want more examples of Tarot card combinations, check out my favourites in this blog post. 

Take Note 

Remember to keep note of the various Tarot card combinations for future reference in a Tarot journal, Tarot Workbook or notebook. Your notes will help you quickly identify the “story” in any future Tarot reading.  They may also highlight further Tarot card combinations that you have not yet discovered. 

Tarot card combinations will facilitate more effective Tarot reading skills, enabling you to draw upon the various layers and interactions that exist within a Tarot reading. Not only will you be able to interpret what each card means in a reading, you’ll be able to draw relationships between each card. This creates a much more comprehensive and insightful reading for your client. 

 

If you’re loving the power of Tarot combinations as much as I do, the Biddy Tarot Planner is the perfect journaling tool for you. With an abundance of different Tarot spreads guiding you through your year, and lots of space to jot down your insights, you’ll improve your interpretations AND manifest your best year yet.

 

The post Tarot Card Combinations appeared first on Biddy Tarot.

BTP73: Forget Memorising Meanings! How to Read Tarot From the Heart Not the Book

Put down the book and read from the heart

Reading Tarot from the book only gets you so far. When you read Tarot from the heart and trust your intuition, your readings will be deeper, more meaningful, and more fun.

In this episode, here’s what I’ll cover:

How to set your intention to read Tarot intuitively
Putting the book down
How to read the cards intuitively
Interpreting the cards instead of memorising them
Journaling with the cards for a more significant connection and understanding

Additional Resources:

Free Workbook: 5 Simple Steps to Read with Confidence
Free Printable: Tarot Card Keywords At-A-Glance
Blog & Podcast Transcript: Read Tarot From The Heart, Not The Book

Podcast Transcript

You’re listening to the Biddy Tarot Podcast, and this is Episode 73: Forget Memorising Meanings! How to Read the Tarot from the Heart and Not the Book.

Welcome to the Biddy Tarot Podcast, where you’ll learn how to connect more deeply with your intuition and live an empowered and enlightened life with the Tarot cards as your guide.

Listen as Brigit and her guests share their very best tips and strategies to help you read Tarot with confidence.

And now here’s your host, Brigit Esselmont.

Forget memorising Meanings!

Hello, and welcome back to the Biddy Tarot Podcast. Today, we’re going to be talking about how to start the tedious job of memorising Tarot card meanings, and instead, how to start reading from the heart.

But before we get into it, I want to say a big thank-you to everyone who sent in a review via iTunes and shared their feedback and comments.

Now, one piece of feedback I want to share is from FreckledWings6577, who is from the U.S. This person writes,

“I’ve just started to learn more about Tarot as a whole. When I found the Biddy Tarot website, I was encouraged by how orderly and knowledgeable it was. I started listening to this podcast just for fun and to learn a few things, and encouraging my friend to listen as well as visit the site. Very promising so far.”

Awesome. Well, I am so glad I can support your journey from the get-go, FreckledWings.

This episode in particular is probably going to be really helpful for you and for many beginner and aspiring Tarot readers. Thank you so much for leaving that feedback, and of course, if you want to leave your feedback, jump into iTunes, and you can leave a review and a star rating as well. I would appreciate it so very much.

READ FROM THE HEART, NOT THE BOOK

Now, when I first started reading Tarot all those years ago, I thought I had to memorise the Tarot card meanings in order to become a good Tarot reader. You see, I was studying at university at the same time as learning Tarot, and I can tell you what – at university, the way that you get good marks is to study like crazy and remember all of the core principles and theories and all that sort of stuff so that you can then regurgitate it in your exams. I thought, “OK, if that works at university, surely that’s going to work as I learn how to read Tarot.”

I read my Tarot books over and over and over, just as I did at university. I read the same lines, the same definitions, the same meanings, until they were absolutely burnt into my memory. And picture this: I had flashcards everywhere, keyword cheat sheets – all sorts of things to help me remember the Tarot card meanings. I did a great job of remembering the meanings, but here’s the problem: whenever I went to do a reading, they were so robotic, and I couldn’t really translate the meanings that I had rote learnt into the specific questions.

For example, I would be single and asking about if I would find a new romance, and then I would get the Eight of Pentacles. “System reject! System reject! Don’t know what this means!” Because what I had learnt of the Eight of Pentacles, I couldn’t translate that into a love reading, for example.

I finally got to this point I said, “Right, that’s it. I can’t do robotic readings. This is not the kind of experience I expected when reading Tarot.”

So, I put the book down. I opened my heart. I opened up my intuition, and I read the cards from my heart, and the result was much better readings – readings that just sang to me. I’d lay down those cards, and I’d see the story just leaping off the cards, so many messages and feelings coming to me more intuitively. Those kinds of readings were way more insightful than the repetitive, robotic readings that I had learnt how to do by memorising the cards.

Today, I’m going to be talking with you about how you can read from the heart and not just the book, and I’m going to walk you through five things that you can do or things to keep in mind as you forget about memorising and instead you read from the heart.

1. Set your intention to read intuitively

Here’s the thing: You have to believe that you can read Tarot intuitively, and I also want you to know that every single person can be intuitive, if you choose to do so. Intuition is not something that you’re born with. Well, maybe you might have a slight predisposition to intuition, but just because you weren’t born completely psychic and intuitive doesn’t mean that you can’t be now.

For me, I really believe that intuition is something that you open yourself up to as you progress through life, and you do so by setting your intentions and making a commitment to being more intuitive and listening to your intuition in your life. You’ve got to believe that you can do it, and you’ve got to commit to doing it.

Now, I know that it’s so tempting sometimes to want to rely on your Tarot books when you’re doing a Tarot reading, and you might start thinking, “Oh! My intuition? I’m not sure about that anymore! I’d better just check in my book to make sure!” It’s really important that you set your intention now, and you stick to it.

Repeat after me: I hereby solemnly swear I will read Tarot from the heart and not just the book. I will stop trying to memorise the Tarot card meanings, and I will start trusting my intuition to create a personal and intuitive connection with the Tarot cards. So be it.

There you go. You’ve set your intention, so now what happens? Well, here’s the second thing I want you to do.

2. Put the book down

That’s right – step away from the book! Put it away. Now, here’s the thing with Tarot books. I think Tarot books absolutely play a role in you learning how to read Tarot. In fact, I still refer to Tarot books now, but the difference is I’ll use Tarot books in between readings. I use it more as an information source, a way of expanding my knowledge, expanding the way I see things. If I’m working with a new Tarot deck, I’ll look at the Tarot book in between the readings to get an understanding of the essence of the card.

But when I’m doing a Tarot reading (and when you’re doing a Tarot reading), put the book down. Instead, you want to be able to read the cards intuitively. By putting that book down, putting it away from you, you just won’t be tempted to try to pick it up and go, “Oh, what’s in there?!” Or try to validate “I think it’s this, but I’d better just check the book in case I’m wrong.” So put the book down, put it away, and only once you’ve gone through that process of reading the cards intuitively, if you feel it would serve you well, then, yes, have a look in the book, but I want you to read intuitively from the get-go.

3. Read the cards intuitively

Here’s how you can do just that. It’s really important before you do a Tarot reading, particularly if your intention is to do it intuitively, you need to create a sacred space for that Tarot reading to occur. Don’t worry – you don’t have to be burning incense or saying incantations or calling in all the directions. Look, you can if you want to, and if you feel like that’s what creates the sacred space for you, go for it. Do it. It’s beautiful. But I want this to be simple and easy for you as well.

Creating the space can be as simple as breathing and clearing your mind, and this is a technique that I’ve talked through in previous podcast episodes, but basically, you close your eyes, you take in your first breath and on the exhalation, you’re just letting go of any tension. Then, on the second breath in and the exhalation out, you’re bringing yourself into the present moment. And then, on that third breath when you exhale, you’re opening your mind to receive whatever it needs to receive. It’s a very simple way of just getting into that beautiful, intuitive, sacred space so that then your reading will flow from there.

Go ahead, do the reading, lay the cards out. Now, you’ve got the cards in front of you, but before you start to analyse the cards and your brain kicks into gear going, “All right! Two of Pentacles, what does that mean? Five of Wands? OK… Check on my keyword sheet. Oh, yep. That’s what it is.”

Forget all of that, because that’s your memorising stuff coming through. I want that to stop for the moment, and instead see what comes to you intuitively. Gaze at those cards and pay attention to what you hear. Are there words? Are there phrases that you hear? Are there sounds? Songs? Music? Whatever it might be. Is there something that you see? Now, it might be something that captures your eye in the Tarot cards, and you say, “Oh, there’s a Moon! Oh, there are two Moons! That’s very interesting.” What does the Moon signify for me right now? What role is the Moon playing for me?

But you might also see on more of this intuitive (or even psychic) level. Example: You might see the cards physically in front of you, but you start to see new imagery in your mind’s eye about a particular situation or an event, so pay attention to that, because that is your intuition doing the talking. You might also feel something. Maybe a physical sensation in your body, or you feel an emotion in your body, something energetically, even. Maybe even smell something or taste something. Really pay attention to your senses as you are looking at those cards, just taking in whatever intuitive message is coming to you.

4. Interpret the story in the card

Now, what I love about getting into the stories… When you start looking at Tarot cards as stories, that’s when your intuition can really kick into gear, because instead of tapping into really static Tarot card meanings that you’ve learnt or memorised from a book, what you’re doing is you’re looking for a more dynamic meaning. You’re looking at this picture in the story in the card, and you’re seeing what comes up for you in that moment in time.

For example, the Knight of Cups. I was doing a Tarot reading for a client, and she was asking about an ex-partner, whether there was really any chance of them getting back together. I laid out the cards, and one of the cards was the Knight of Cups. Look, if I had been memorising the meanings, I’d have gone, “Hmm, Knight of Cups – romance, an offer,” or something along those lines.

But what I did was I looked at the card, and I started to look at the story in the card. I looked beyond just seeing the Knight on his horse, looking very charming and romantic. In fact, I started to look at the background. My attention was drawn to the background, where it was a desert with this bright blue river running through it, and what came into my mind’s eye was this idea of a desert oasis. I started thinking, “Oh wow, I think maybe this man that she’s interested in isn’t spending time with her, but he’s spending time in some kind of desert oasis with another woman.” I put it out there.

“Is there any chance that he might be in a desert oasis? This feels a little bit weird and a bit out there, but sit with me here. Is there any chance of that? Maybe there’s a bit of a romance going on here, but it doesn’t feel like it’s with you.”

She said, “Oh OK, well, I’m not sure. I know that he’s away at the moment. I’m not quite sure where he is.” Then a few days later, she writes back to me. “Oh yeah, about that guy. He was! He was out at this desert retreat with a new woman!”

I said, “My goodness! That’s amazing!” and that was all because I went past just typical meanings of the cards, and I went into what story I saw in that card, what imagery took my attention.

I want you to really look through the card. Look beyond what you know of the card, and look intuitively into the card. There’s a practical way of doing it, and that’s telling the story in the card. You start by saying what’s happening in the card. What characters are in there? What’s the object that you’re seeing? What’s going on?” And then start to ask yourself, “OK, well, that’s interesting. Now, why is that happening? What’s really going on here? What’s the real story behind this card?” You start telling that story, and then you ask, “OK, how does that relate?” and you might start to realise that that card is actually related to your life in ways that you could never have seen.

Now, I’ve just reached over to grab my little Tarot, because I want to just randomly select a card here. Ten of Wands.

OK, here we go.

Maybe I’ve asked about what’s coming up for me in the next week. What I see here is a man carrying a pile of sticks, and he’s kind of bent over. In fact, it looks like he’s defying gravity here, because these sticks are pulling him down, and he’s carrying them in a very awkward way, actually. They’re kind of splayed out. There’s probably a much easier way to carry these sticks, but he’s bending over, and his back is really hurting. In the background, I’m seeing the little house. He doesn’t have that far to go, but… You know, you’re in the moment of the burden, the pain, and sometimes even though you’re getting to the finish line, you’re getting to home, you’re so in that moment of pain.

This is kind of the process here. I’ve talked about what’s happening, so why is this happening? Well, maybe he’s taking it on himself. Maybe if he thought about this situation a little bit better, he could actually get a bit more organised and figure out how to carry these sticks in a better way. He might even pay more attention to his posture, so he could have a straighter back while he is carrying those sticks, and that might make it easier. It’s almost as if he’s fallen victim to what’s happened here, and he’s making it even harder for himself.

I wonder: How does that relate to me in my week that’s coming up? Well, maybe I could think about what I am taking on and that I’m doing in such a way that’s creating even more pain for me than is really necessary? Maybe, if I could just put these sticks down for a moment, I could stop, assess the situation, and evaluate. What’s the best way for me to get this heavy pile of sticks to my destination? Maybe there’s a better way that I’m not seeing right now, because I’m so in the moment of the pain and carrying heavy sticks.

What’s happening here just as I’m looking at this card is I’m going beyond the meaning that I might memorise in a book, but I’m going more into the story, and I’m just paying attention to what’s coming up for me right here, in this moment, and the story that I’m starting to see in this card is helping me to intuitively connect and respond to the question that I had with the Tarot card.

That is such a simple way of getting your intuition to kick into gear so that you’re not just relying on book meanings when you’re interpreting the cards, and I think you’re going to surprise yourself and the people that you’re reading for, because you get into such specific detail, it becomes so relevant to the person that you’re reading for, and it’s not just “Ten of Wands – heavy burdens.” You’re actually getting into how this really relates to you as well. OK, I’ve spent a lot of time on that, but I find that the story in the card is incredibly important.

5. Journal with the Tarot cards

Again, this is what’s going to get you away from memorising the meanings and closer to reading intuitively and from the heart. Journaling with the Tarot cards is such a beautiful process, and I find that it helps to really facilitate your soul journey and your soul healing. Reading with the Tarot cards, doing an actual Tarot reading is just one way of working with the Tarot cards. Things like journaling or doing creative projects with the Tarot cards just takes your intuitive connection to the Tarot cards that much deeper.

You can actually work with the Tarot cards with your journal on a daily basis. You could pick just a random card and journal about it. Maybe you’re going through the steps that we talked about before, where you’re just seeing what energy you’re getting from this card, what’s coming up for your intuitively, and what’s the story, and how that story relates to you right now. You might just pick a card for the day and free write. Just write whatever comes to you intuitively.

You might even do a Tarot reading and then go, “Oh my goodness! The High Priestess – it was just standing out to me. Yes, there were seven other cards, but this High Priestess needs my attention.” You take that card, and then you go and you journal about it. Maybe your question that you ask yourself is “What is the High Priestess trying to tell me here?”

Or you might even take it that little step further, because when you’re looking intuitively at the cards, you notice the veil, and the veil sits behind the High Priestess. “What side of the veil am I on, and why am I on that side? What might happen if I was on the other side of the veil? What lies beyond the veil?” Things like that can be just so juicy to start journaling about.

This is stuff that you will never find in a Tarot book, and yet the value of these insights can be so deeply personal and moving for you. In fact, once you go through the experience for yourself, where you’ve gone quite deep into these cards, then imagine what you can help create for the people that you read Tarot for. You could start using some of your experiences to help shift the energy for somebody else, or to help pose different questions for someone else to see life in a different way.

Journaling with the Tarot cards is a beautiful way to really make it personal and to learn the cards at a heart level, where you fully embody the card, you get it, and it’s intensely personal, but also in such a way that you can then go and share that with others in a really powerful, meaningful way.

There you have it. Those are five steps that you can use to read Tarot from the heart and not just the book.

Set your intention to read Tarot intuitively.
Put the book down, especially when you’re doing a Tarot reading.
Read the cards intuitively first. Notice what comes to you intuitively when you’re looking at the cards.
Interpret the story in the card, and get to what that story really means for you on a personal level.
Finally, journal with the Tarot cards. Find that deeply personal, intimate connection with the Tarot cards.

Once you start doing this, this is how you make Tarot fun. You’re going to get so much more out of your Tarot readings when you’re reading from the heart and not just the book. You’ll connect more with your inner wisdom, and instead of relying on others for your advice, you’re going to know, “I can go internally. I can get my answers from within, because I trust my intuition.” And ultimately, you’re going to be able to learn Tarot faster. This is way more interesting than memorising and rote learning. When you make it deeply personal, or you just simply learn how to tell the story, then it facilitates that learning process so much more.

Want to take this further?

I’m hosting a FREE training: How To Quickly Read Any Tarot Card Intuitively Without Memorising All 78 Cards.

At this free workshop, you’ll learn:

Why you don’t need to memorise the Tarot cards to be a fantastic Tarot reader
The simplest way to let your intuition interpret a Tarot card accurately and reliably
Keys to master the Tarot card meanings quickly!
How to stop doubting your interpretations and understand the story the Tarot cards are telling you – whether it’s one card or a combination

Register Today!

The post BTP73: Forget Memorising Meanings! How to Read Tarot From the Heart Not the Book appeared first on Biddy Tarot.

Tarot Gift Guide

Let’s be honest, for Tarot lovers like us, owning only one Tarot deck is never enough. Tarot gets under our skin and into our souls; it infiltrates our houses, hobbies and even the clothes we wear. And it should come as no surprise that we adore giving and receiving Tarot gifts as well! So, this year, instead of navigating the usual awkward pressie exchanges with family (thanks for the socks, Nan), we’ve collated a Tarot Gift Guide – full of tasty Tarot-related treats – so you can share away! Give the list to your partner, bestie, family and friends, or use the list to spread a little Tarot love yourself these holidays (and beyond). 

TAROT DECKS AND ORACLE CARDS

Tarot and Oracle decks make for some of the best stocking stuffers and these 5 won’t disappoint!  

Everyday Tarot Mini-Kit A fresh and modern deck, illustrated by Eleanor Grosch (with meanings by moi!) all stored in a beautiful keepsake box.  
Children of the Litha Tarot Successfully funded Kickstarted deck with 80 hand-illustrated cards lovingly made by Alexandria Huntington, featuring mythical creatures, animals and nature-based symbolism. 
Work Your Light Oracle Cards Stunning 44 card oracle deck illustrated by Danielle Noel and created by spiritual teacher, Rebecca Campbell. Perfect for anyone wanting to listen to the whispers of their soul. 
OK Tarot At first glance, it’s easy to see that the OK Tarot is modern, cute and light-hearted but the true genius lies in its simplicity. Adam J. Kurtz’s hand-drawn illustrations cut straight to the chase, making the deck accessible for both beginners and professionals alike.
Radiant Rider Waite The OG deck for all Tarot readers. This one also comes in a tin!

BOOKS, PLANNERS AND CALENDARS

How exciting is it unwrapping a beautiful new book or a fresh planner, wanting to sneak off from festivities to get stuck in right away (or is that just me)? These  beautiful books and 2019 planners and calendars are sure to bring hours of quiet happiness to the lucky recipient.

Everyday Tarot Unlock your inner wisdom and manifest your future with my latest book, lovingly illustrated by Eleanor Grosch. Filled with actionable tips, soulful activities, insightful card spreads and everyday rituals, this is the perfect book for Tarot lovers of all levels to learn more ways to draw on their intuition to fulfil their deepest desires. Wishes fulfilled? Best gift ever.
The 2019 Wilder Moon Calendar Imagine being guided through all the ebbs and flows of energies throughout the year, in tune with the cosmos, the earth and everything in between… This is what Sarah Wilder gifts us with in her exquisitely illustrated and thoughtfully designed Wilder Moon Calendar. All the beauty we know from The Fifth Element Life is here, as we journey through the year honouring and exploring the Earth, Sun, Moon, and Stars. A beautiful gift for art lovers and star gazers alike.
2019 Moonology Diary  Astrologer Yasmin Boland helps us connect with the magic and cycles of the Moon to improve and empower every aspect of life. As well as moon calendar guidance, Moonology is packed with affirmations, visualisations and chants to use during each phase of the moon. A wonderful choice for anyone who wants to connect more with the natural cycles.
The Illustrated Herbiary  “Guidance and rituals from 36 bewitching botanicals”… Sign us up! Not only is Maia Toll’s latest offering absolutely stunning, it is also incredibly informative and useful. The magic of plant medicine is completely accessible within these pages, with lots of exercises to help you explore the energy of different plants. And it comes with its own oracle deck! Need we say more.
2019 Biddy Tarot Planner Bigger and better than ever, the 2019 Biddy Tarot Planner is filled with manifesting mojo! Envision your goals, align with your highest intentions, and bring your dreams to life, using intuition and Tarot as your guide. With inspiring Tarot spreads, powerful rituals, inner reflection readings and intention setting exercises, the Biddy Tarot Planner will support you in manifesting your best year yet. Perfect for all planner lovers, organisers and Tarot enthusiasts.
AstroTwins’ 2019 Horoscope The Astro Twins have laid out every major cosmic moment of the year in 2019 in this 600+ page piece of genius. This is brilliant for any astrology lovers or anyone who wants detailed guidance for their year. Complete with an in-depth forecast for your Sun sign, detailed Monthly Hotspots with dates for love & career and a full year of day-planner calendar pages with key cosmic events highlighted, the 2019 Horoscope will be sure to delight the lucky recipient.

CRYSTALS AND CLEANSING TOOLS

Amethyst Cake Sculpture by Cat Machine Global. Amethyst and cake are basically our favourite things so this crystal sculpture is definite gift goals.
Aura Spray from Modern Mystic.  A sacred water mist to cleanse your space and face. Sustainably harvested Palo Santo plus clear quartz and hematite infusion will elevate vibes and ground energy, perfect for purifying your sacred space. This is a fab addition to any ritual tools or books you’re gifting this year.
Pocket Full of Luck by Modern Mystic. A gorgeous little kit of high vibe crystals to bring good juju. Who wouldn’t love to be gifted with some good luck?
Third Eye Bath Bomb by Witch Baby Soap. Can’t get enough of these bath bombs! Not only does it have a delicious summer scent, it’s blended with blue vervain, the herb of enchantment, and mystic mother elderberry to open the third eye. For anyone who likes their “me time” to be a little special and sacred.

OTHER TAROT TREATS

Spirit Cloth by The Wild Unknown. A super fun way to use your deck, the Spirit Cloth is hand-illustrated by Kim Krans, guiding you through a variety of readings. A great gift for the Tarot lover looking to take their practice to new and visionary places.
 by Shining Moon. Yes we want to wear the High Priestess every day! A high quality, metal pin inspired by the Rider-Waite Tarot deck.  Made based on prints from intricate hand-carved stamps – a gorgeous example of what happens when art meets Tarot. 
Tower (of Pancakes) T-shirt by LookHUMAN. Finally someone made the Tower card fun! The awesome peeps at LookHUMAN are keeping us cute in our Tarot get-up. Now we can be happy knowing that when the Tower falls, we get pancakes.
Tarot Card Stickers by Earth Shine. These gorgeous stickers are amazing to use with your Biddy Tarot Planner or in your Tarot journaling. The Major Arcana are all represented in this beautiful take on the Rider-Waite deck. Perfect for stationery lovers and the planner-obsessed.

Phew! That’s quite the list! Hopefully it gives you some great ideas for this holiday season for the Tarot lovers in your life. Or, you can strategically leave it for your loved ones to find just before they start their shopping… Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and an amazing 2019.

If the Biddy Tarot Planner is on your list, or you’d like to get it for a loved one, you can order now! Available in paperback or digital (for immediate download) you can get started right away with November and December 2018 included as a bonus.

The post Tarot Gift Guide appeared first on Biddy Tarot.

Should You Give Free Tarot Readings?

When you’re new to Tarot and developing your Tarot reading skills, one of the most common ways to build experience is to give free Tarot readings. They’re a safe way to practice your skills, explore your personal style, and gain valuable experience. However, free Tarot readings aren’t always the best way to go. In some cases, they might end up completely draining your energy and leaving you feeling exhausted and depleted. 

In this blog post, I explore whether you should give free Tarot readings, and what you need to look out for so that you can make it a positive and sustainable experience for yourself and the people you read for. 

 

How to Give Free Tarot Readings 

 There are many ways to offer free Tarot readings. 

Reading for friends and family can be a safe place to learn and great for getting friendly feedback. After you become more comfortable, you may want to branch out and challenge yourself to read for people you don’t know. 


Join a platform like Biddy Tarot Community’s Free Tarot Readings. The deal is that you offer a free reading in exchange for the opportunity to practice and receive feedback and testimonials. 


As part of your business growth strategy. You can either do a free reading for a group (like what I do for our 100,000 subscribers in our weekly newsletter), or you can offer free 1:1 readings via email, Instagram or Facebook. You could do this as a prize or give-away to attract new people to your list, or you could offer free readings as a ‘trial’ of your services. 


Exchange readings with other Tarot readers. Perhaps you each do a free reading for one another and give feedback and support in the process.  


Exchange a free reading for something that’s of value to you, such as a warm meal, hand-made jewellery, or a massage. 

 

But here’s the thing. Giving free Tarot readings take time and energy. As with most things, if you’re investing your energy into it there needs to be some kind of return. Otherwise you’ll find yourself feeling exhausted, depleted and resentful.  

In the absence of money, the exchange might be experience, feedback, testimonials, leads, social shares, food, services, you name it. But ultimately, there needs to be an equal exchange of energy when you are reading Tarot for free – otherwise it won’t be a sustainable experience for you. 

So, should you give free Tarot readings? The choice is yours, but it really comes down to where you are at in your Tarot reading journey.  

If you are a Tarot Beginner… 

Yes! Giving free Tarot readings is one of the best ways to develop your skills, improve your confidence and gain valuable feedback along the way. 

When I first started to read Tarot, I gave hundreds of free Tarot readings online and my skills and confidence went through the roof. I had clients from all around the world, with all kinds of questions and situations. The diversity meant that I become much more flexible and adaptable as a reader, and I quickly discovered where my ethical and personal boundaries lay with how I read Tarot. I was also able to try out my new skills as I learned new Tarot spreads, reading techniques and card meanings. 

Caveat… Be careful that you do not try to be everything to everyone. The most valuable part of reading for so many different people is that you learn to appreciate where you can best help your clients (and where you cannot).  

And be mindful that not all feedback is helpful. For example, if a client has the expectation that you can accurately predict the timing of an event, but this is not part of your way of working, then you may take his one-star rating with a grain of salt. But if a client gives you constructive feedback about not just interpreting the cards but offering advice, then you might listen a little more closely. 

The most important thing is to relax and have fun, enjoy the experience and take on the feedback that is most helpful for you. Discover who you are as a Tarot reader and try out new styles of reading as part of this experimentation phase. 

If you are considering becoming professional… 

Yes! Reading Tarot for free can be a great way to build up your experience, testimonials and social proof.  

For every free reading you offer, request a testimonial (and ideally, a photo) from your client so that you can share this testimonial when you become a professional Tarot reader. (Always ask for written permission to republish the testimonial and photo.) 

As you read for more people, keep a tally of how many clients you have read for. If you’re starting out as a professional reader, it can be very empowering to say that you’ve already read for hundreds of clients online. 

Be careful not to overdo it with the free Tarot readings and lose sight of the bigger goal of becoming a professional Tarot reader. It’s easy to give free readings, but it takes courage to finally ask for payment. So, set yourself a goal for how many free readings you will do (or testimonials you want to receive), and then make the leap to becoming a professional Tarot reader and receiving payment for your services. 

If you are already a professional Tarot reader… 

Giving free Tarot readings may be a good way to attract new subscribers to your email list or generate some ‘buzz’ for your business (particularly if the free reading is a giveaway with some requirement to share on social media to enter). 

However, let’s be really honest here. People who are seeking ‘free’, typically do not convert to ‘paid’. So, if you are hoping that by offering free readings, you’ll be able to convert these folks into paying customers, think again. You’re likely to end up feeling burnt out and exhausted. 

I know it because I’ve been there before. Even when I was a professional Tarot reader, I offered free readings, thinking that it would be a great way to attract potential new clients. But when I offered a more in-depth reading at a nominal fee, these ‘free’ clients quickly disappeared and I was left feeling like I had invested a whole lot into not much. The exchange just wasn’t there because I already had developed the experience necessary and had the testimonials, and instead I wasn’t getting much else from the process. (And let’s be honest, while I love giving Tarot readings, there comes a time when you can’t just do it for the love of it.) 

 

So, should you give free Tarot readings?  Ultimately, it depends where you are on your Tarot journey. If you’re at the beginning, then giving free Tarot readings is an invaluable way of improving your skills and boosting your confidence. However, if you are already a professional Tarot reader, you might want to think more strategically about whether free readings will actually help your business or not. 

If you’re ready to practice your Tarot reading skills, gain valuable experience, and boost your confidence, then check out the Biddy Tarot Community. Inside, you’ll find the Free Tarot Readings platform where you can give cost-free readings to the public in exchange for feedback and experience. Plus, you’ll get the support of over 1,000 members and additional Masterclasses and resources to help you become a better Tarot reader. Join the Community wait list now.

The post Should You Give Free Tarot Readings? appeared first on Biddy Tarot.

3 Easy Ways to Start Using Crystals in Your Tarot Practice

You’ve probably seen thousands of gorgeous photos on Instagram and Pinterest of those sparkly, candy looking rocks and thought, “Those are so pretty (I kind of want to eat them)! But, do they really work?” And as a Tarot reader – perhaps you’ve considered adding them to your own arsenal of awesome, but just weren’t sure where to begin. 

In this guest post by Team Biddy’s resident crystals expert, Laura, you’ll learn that YES they DO work, they are easier to use than you’re probably thinking – AND adding them to your practice has more benefits than you might realise!  

So, why might you want to integrate crystals into your Tarot practice (other than because they are super gorgeous)? Over to Laura to find out… 

It’s All About Energy and Vibration 

Everything around you vibrates. It’s called The Law of Vibration.  Your Tarot cards, you, the candles you light as a part of your ritual, the table you are sitting at and even the shoes on your feet have a unique vibrational frequency all their own.  

You’ve probably heard someone say “Attitudes are contagious” or have seen people tag posts on social media with #vibratehigher – what does it all mean? That’s where the Law of Resonance comes in!  Some of these frequencies can take on or be amplified by other similar frequencies and those vibrations can shape your reality into something completely different. It’s the reason we steer clear of the Debbie Downers in the office or find ourselves drifting away from childhood friends after years of holding on. Not all frequencies are good for you, or are a match for your body’s own personal resonance. We naturally gravitate toward the positive vibes, because they feel good.  

So, when it comes to setting your sacred space – It’s important to keep it ‘vibin’ high’ and positively supported, so that the negatively charged parts of your world don’t take over. Crystals are a very simple way to achieve just that.  

You see – crystals vibrate at predetermined frequencies that aid many different aspects of life. Love, strength, focus, purification, even fertility and psychic abilities.  And when activated with positive intention, they can really change the atmosphere around you and lend support to your purpose!  

Here are 3 examples of super-easy ways you can use the power of crystals in your every day Tarot practice.  

Before a reading

Meditate before readings with Clear Quartz to filter out distractions and tune in to your Self.

Clear Quartz is considered a universal crystal that can be attuned to the energy needs in any situation. It is wonderful for amplifying energy and aiding concentration.

Sit quietly for a moment with your quartz in your hands, your feet flat on the ground, and concentrate on the energy flowing into your being. You might feel your hands tingle a bit! Take a few deep breaths to clear your mind and be present in the moment. Imagine a bright white light surrounding you. Set your intention for the reading and allow your intuition to take it from here.  

You can use many other crystals to meditate with – don’t limit yourself to just this one!  

Want to enhance your intuition? Try Moonstone. 

Maybe you’re reading for someone very close to you – or you’ve already formed an opinion or judgement about the querent’s situation… Distance yourself by meditating with Aquamarine. 

Or perhaps you’ve been feeling out of sorts or a bit distracted. Ground yourself during meditation by working with Smoky Quartz.  

During a reading

Drink a crystal elixir of Blue Lace Agate to open the lines of communication.

Blue Lace Agate is a calming crystal that works well to activate the throat chakra and support the verbal expression of thoughts and feelings.  

Water is an excellent conductor of energy, and it is possible to ‘program’ your water with the energies of specific crystals for ingestion. All you need to do is place a piece of blue lace agate (I recommend tumbled, versus raw) into your favorite drinking container and let it set for a bit. Have a few sips before you begin the reading and continue to drink as needed throughout.  

Crystal elixirs are wonderful ways to transfer the vibration of a crystal into your body at the cellular level. You can make a variety of elixirs for many reasons. 

Are you afraid of holding back on delivering a message from the cards, because you’re afraid of how your client will react? Drink an elixir made from citrine to help boost your confidence and make you less sensitive to criticism.  

For the days you might be feeling a little down or depleted – drink an elixir made with Rose Quartz to open your heart chakra and help promote the loving vibes.  

*note You cannot do this with all crystals because some are toxic! Please do your research if you want to use other crystals in a drinkable elixir. HERE is a good place to start. Also, please discuss with your healthcare practitioner if you have any concerns. Using crystals is not meant to replace modern western medicine! 

After a reading

Store your cards with a piece of Black Tourmaline to keep the energy surrounding your cards pure.

Black Tourmaline is a crystal that brings about protection and disperses (does not absorb!) negative energies.

Preparing your sacred space after a reading is just as important as before a reading. When you are ready to put your cards away for the day (or moment) do so as you normally would but include a piece of black tourmaline nearby. Right on top of the deck is a great place! It will help neutralize your space and allow room for the positive vibes to flow.  

Can’t find black tourmaline? No worries … You could also store your cards with a piece of labradorite to deflect any lingering negative vibes and keep your space pure.  

Or, Pyrolusite to repel negative energy and help you stay true to your own beliefs.  

So there you have it, 3 easy ways to start using crystals in your Tarot practice. If you’d like to incorporate crystals further into your Tarot practice, check out the 2019 Biddy Tarot Planner – each Card of the Month in the Planner is linked to a specific crystal to deepen your connection to the cards and your inner wisdom.

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7 Tips to Turn Your Tarot Hobby Into a Rewarding Business

You’ve been reading Tarot for tips and pocket money (or for free), but now you’re ready to take it to the next level and make your Tarot hobby a rewarding business.  

Starting a business, even a passion-based business, can be a tough journey. An estimated 8 out 10 businesses fail in their first year. This is a scary statistic, but you don’t need to be part of it!  It can be overwhelming when you start out, as going pro does change the dynamic a bit. It can seem like you’re slogging away at something you once loved without a clear view of the success and fulfilment you’re looking for.  However, if you are dedicated and do it right, it can happen. I turned my passion for Tarot into a 7-figure business in just 5 years! 

Here are the 7 key things I did to turn my Tarot hobby into a rewarding business: 

1. Know Your Why 

When people ask me why I’m so motivated with my work, I say to them, “It’s because I feel like I’m doing God’s work.”  I am so aligned to my soul purpose and why I have been put on this earth that it’s as if I have no other choice but to follow my purpose and my passion. And so, when things get tough in the business or I need to push that little bit harder, I do – with a loving heart and a wave of motivation through my body because I know that this is why I’m here. 

That’s why it’s so important that you know your ‘why’. Your ‘why’ is your purpose in life, the reason you have been put on this planet, and the way in which you will make a positive change in this world. When you’re connected to your ‘why’, the work will flow easily. Even when you’re filling out boring paperwork or you’re in the third hour of figuring out how to change the colour of a box on your website, you will know in your heart why you’re doing what you’re doing and it will come that much easier to you. 

2. Make Connections and Give, Give, Give 

In the early years of my business, I responded to every single email and every single question. My heart was wide open and I wanted to make an impact in every person’s life. I simply wanted to get to know my ‘tribe’ and create new relationships so that I could figure out how to best serve these people. And once I started to get an idea of how they may need my help, I gave and gave and gave. Free Tarot card meanings, Tarot advice, online lessons, you name it.  

Over time, the volume of emails and questions became so high that there was no way I could continue to grow the business and respond to every single one, but these days, we have other ways of creating what I call, “scaled intimacy” such as a 5-person customer support team, free webinars, Facebook Lives, and so on. 

So, when you’re first starting out, set the intention to make connections with the people who come into your space and give and give and give. Be generous! And over time, you will start to receive – compliments, support, gifts, and money. Better still, your original ‘tribe’ will be there for the long haul because you’ve shown you care. 

3. Make Intuition Your Super-Power 

As a Tarot reader, your intuition is already highly attuned and you know how to use it in your readings. Now, as you’re stepping into your entrepreneurial role, it’s time to bring your intuition into your business. It is one of the best super powers you can bring to the table when it comes to creating a sustainable, profitable business. 

Call in your intuition daily. Ask: How can I be of service today? Or ask: What one thing do I need to focus on to fulfil my goals today? When faced with a challenging decision, ask your guides to show you the best possible path. Or visualise both options and get a sense of the energy around each one before making your choice. Look for signs from the Universe and trust your gut – rather than only listening to other people’s opinions or the ‘latest and greatest’ marketing strategy. 

Intuition isn’t one of those froufrou things you do on the side when no-one’s looking. Intuition is your business super-power – use it to your advantage (and in alignment with the Highest Good). 

4. Wear ALL the Hats 

When you’re a solopreneur, running the business on your own, you need to be prepared to wear all the hats. You’re the Tarot reader, the receptionist, the web developer, the marketer, the finance officer, the graphic designer. ALL of the things! It may feel a little uncomfortable at the beginning because you really do need to be a Jane-of-all-trades, but step up to the plate and do the best you can.  

The neat thing is that these days, there are so many tools and resources that make this stuff a lot easier than it used to be. For example, Canva.com will help you become an awesome graphic designer. And ready-made WordPress themes will help you build a website in just a few hours. Have the mindset that no task is too great and that you’re willing to do what it takes. And rest assured that as soon as you have some more income flowing into the business, you can start hiring (delegating is the secret to success, trust me!). 

5. Everything is an Experiment 

One of the secrets to my success as a business owner and entrepreneur is that I treat everything like an experiment.  When I first had the idea of turning my Tarot card meanings into an eBook and selling it for $10, I had no idea if it would work or not. But I convinced myself that I would treat it like an experiment, so that if it worked, great! But if it didn’t work, then I learned from the experience and tried another experiment. 

The neat thing is that you cannot fail when everything is an experiment. If it goes well, then you have learned what works. If it doesn’t go well, then you have learned what doesn’t work. Everything becomes information, rather than a straight-up success or fail. And that gives you the room to be bold and courageous, and to step outside of your comfort zone. 

6. Have a Stash of Cash 

There’s nothing worse than a business owner who is desperate for the next dollar in her business. It’s not only stressful for you as the business owner, but stressful for your potential clients because you’re much more likely to be treating each interaction with a sense of “Please buy from me!! I need to eat!” and that’s not pretty for anyone. 

So, make sure you know how much money you need to live each month. If your business isn’t generating that much money just yet, then either make sure you have enough in your savings to cover you for the next 12 months or get a part-time job that will provide a more consistent income while you build up your business. 

7. Get Your Business in Order 

I know – this is the boring bit. But trust me, it’s super important. 

As soon as you know you’re ready to start a business, register your business name, check out if you need any special permits or licenses to practice in your local area, research your tax obligations, and find out the best way to structure your business. Most states will have a Small Business Office which will provide you with the information you need to know to get your business in order. 

 So, if you’re feeling the call to turn your Tarot hobby into a rewarding business, work with these 7 steps and check in with them often through your journey. If you’d like some additional support, my Grow Your Tarot Business Online program will teach and support you to turn your love of Tarot into a thriving, profitable business. Check out the FREE masterclass today!

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