Tarot: No Questions Asked isn't just a book on tarot interpretations. While I do include a large chapter on card meanings, you will also find exercises called “Tarotcises” sprinkled throughout this book. These Tarotcises are lessons and experiments that I've used with students and in my own studies. You'll want to practice them because they will help you become proficient (plus, some of them will challenge you). Some of them might seem silly, but you should not underestimate their power. After all, learning through play is a way that many folks master a subject. The method doesn't always have to be “scholarly.”
I've also loaded the book with journaling prompts because I have found that writing allows the information to seep into my subconscious and stay there. When I write things out, my brain is able to retain the info much better.
I encourage you to use this book up. Scribble in the margins, ponder the questions, test the Tarotcises on yourself and with others. Highlight what feels relevant and discard anything that doesn't. Find your own tarot voice (it doesn't need to sound just like mine).
We'll start out with the tarot basics first to form a foundation. The intuition part comes next, adding color and depth to your interpretations. Even if you think you don't have a psychic bone in your body, I've got methods to help you tap in. (Psst, tarot often helps people become more intuitive.) From there, we'll put this all together like a peanut butter and marshmallow fluff sandwich. The “Going Pro” chapter has insider tips that will help you set up shop with a minimum of fuss. This book is a full-on peek into how my tarot brain (and business) works and how I “live” tarot every day of my life.
A gentle reminder as you dive in: remain curious. Pay attention to your feelings. They will guide you brilliantly. That's the first step toward becoming a true intuitive tarot reader.
As you begin your journey with me, you'll need a few proper tools. The first one: a tarot deck.
You can purchase yours at any online retailer that sells books or at your local meta-physical shop. Some stores have opened decks that you can peruse. This is nice because you can peek at the art and get an idea of how the cards feel in your hands. But if you don't have access to a shop, you can find lots of images online that may help you make your decision.
Frankly, I recommend that you start with the Rider-Waite-Smith tarot deck. It's a classic and the one you'll usually see featured in many tarot books, including this one. Plus, many modern decks are based on the same symbolism too.
Next, you'll want a journal. Journaling is an effective way to develop your intuitive and tarot skills. Keeping a record of your findings will help you grasp the information, but also you'll see patterns emerging and learn how your intuition is working and in what way. This will build confidence and greater awareness.
I have been keeping journals for intuition, tarot, and dreamwork for years. Writing down my insights not only allows the information to marinate in my bones but also gives me a record that I can reflect on later. Going back to my old notes can sometimes lead to aha moments, fresh insights, and validation. It can also help me see how I might have missed something . . . and that could lead to an entirely new interpretation.
Journaling helps connect the dots between tarot and intuition. In addition to consistent practice, journaling is the fastest way to gain confidence in your abilities.
Purchase a journal that makes your heart happy—one that you will love to fill with notes and sketches. For me, good paper and a solid cover are a must. I like to use pens, so I need paper that won't bleed. You might want to go digital, and while that option can work, I prefer the act of taking pen to paper. It seems to link the subconscious and conscious better than typing. Feel free to write in this book too.
Of course, some folks find that recording their voice works best. If you prefer that method, please follow your inclination. Only you know what is right for you. What's important isn't the way you journal but that you do.
You may want to have separate journals for tarot and intuition work. Or you can put your work all together in one. Again, what matters is that you find a system that allows you to be consistent.
Each day, take a few minutes to write in your tarot journal. Record dreams that you've had, signs from the Universe, or perhaps a tarot card for the day that you drew first thing in the morning as you sat down with your coffee. Jot down any impressions that come to mind. Work through the Tarotcises in this book. Don't stop and worry if you're right or wrong . . . or what things may mean. Just let your thoughts flow without stopping or censoring.
Once you've recorded your insights, put the journal away. Come back to it later in the day. Has anything unfolded that may correlate between your intuitive flashes or not? Did events manifest in a surprising way? What new insights have you gleaned? What, if any, patterns emerged?
Take time to add any notes or information that seems relevant.
Your tarot journal is a living, breathing record of your intuitive journey, one that you'll revisit again and again. Other than the tarot deck, it's also your best tool.
Card of the Day: I highly recommend pulling a card in the morning and journaling your thoughts. This is a practice I do every day. It's a way to deepen my connection to the cards and train my intuition to operate without a filter. I not only post a card of the day for myself but also put one online for my fans. This is also a good practice. There is something about putting a card out there for everyone to see that helps me grow more confident in my tarot skills. You might find that this routine does the same for you.
Date It: Always put dates on your journal entries. This way, you can look back and see how things unfolded . . . and how you grew as a tarot reader.
Draw: If you prefer, you might want to draw instead of write. You might draw an image from your dream or perhaps your own rendition of the card you pulled. This practice can also be a way to tap in. The reason is that our creativity comes from the same side of the brain as our intuition. If you feel called to draw, sketch, or paint, do it. Expressing yourself this way may be a better way for you to connect.
Scrapbook: You may also want to paste mini tarot cards, photos, or even small things you find throughout your day, such as feathers or clippings from magazines that capture your attention. Add ribbons, glitter, or whatever strikes your fancy; make your journal a creative, intuitive work of art!
Reflection: Every so often, go back to your old journals. Did your insights ring true? Or did you misinterpret something? Don't get bummed out if you think something didn't come true or make sense. Instead, write down what did transpire. Just the facts. Learn from that. Later on, you may discover that your original interpretations were valid but not the way you expected.
Remember: Intuition is not perfect. There is always room for misinterpretation. As you continue to practice, your instincts will get stronger. Like a muscle, instinct needs to be exercised regularly. The only way to become psychically fit is to work those intuitive muscles every day. Maintaining your journal is like doing bicep curls for your sixth sense!