How to Strengthen Your Intuition for a Tarot Reading

Many tarot readers put a lot of care into how they store and cleanse their decks. Some wrap their cards in silk, place them in ornate boxes, or keep crystals nearby. Others reorder the deck to “reset” the energy.

I don’t do any of those things.

For me, the most powerful way to prepare for a tarot reading is not by focusing on the cards at all — it’s by focusing on myself. Because at the heart of a clear, meaningful tarot reading is my connection with the cards, my intuition.

The strongest way to heighten your intuition for tarot is to calm the mind. The louder the inner chatter, the louder the inner critic, the harder it is to hear that quiet, intuitive voice. When your mind is clear and centred, your intuition has space to flow.

Step One: Ground Your Body

When you pick up your tarot cards, first notice your posture. Sit with your feet flat on the floor to ground yourself — or, if you prefer, sit cross-legged on the floor. Whatever position you choose, make sure you feel supported and steady.

Step Two: Breathe With Intention

As you start to shuffle your cards, bring your focus to your breath.

• Inhale: Feel the energy of the Earth rising to meet you. Allow yourself to receive its steadiness.

• Exhale: Let go of tension. Release stress, overthinking, and distraction.

Let your hands shuffle while your breath calms the mind. Take as long as you need, knowing that with every out-breath, you are releasing stress, chatter, and doubt.

Step Three: Write Down Your Question

Once you feel calm and centred, write down the question you want to ask the tarot.

A great starting point is something simple and open, such as:

• What do I need to know about today?

• What do I need to understand about this situation?

• What guidance will support me in my work project?

Writing the question down keeps your mind clear. You’re no longer holding it in your head, which allows you to remain in that calm flow state.

Step Four: Draw the First Card

When you’re ready, shuffle your cards slowly, staying with your breath. Then, lay out just the first card.

Now pause. Look at it. Really look.

Don’t reach for a book. Don’t reach for your phone.

Simply stay calm and focus on your breath. Allow the image to speak to you. Notice the colours, the shapes, the symbols, and the feelings it stirs.

Let your intuition be inspired by what you see, and listen for the whisper.

The calmer your mind, the clearer that whisper will be. And in that quiet, your own intuitive wisdom can flow freely.

Closing Thoughts

By calming your mind, grounding your body, and staying present with your breath, you create the space to hear your own inner wisdom.

Next time you pick up your cards, remember: it’s not about elaborate rituals or perfect storage. It’s about cultivating calm so that your intuition can guide the reading.