Choosing the right deck for yourself is only the beginning of the process of reading the Tarot for yourself or others.  The next step is to spend the time connecting with your deck.  Tarot works based on your energies and intent bear that in mind as you journey with your Tarot deck in the discovery process.   What you sow, so shall you reap; or what you put into connecting with your deck is what you will receive back.

First and foremost, treat your deck with respect.  Handle it gently and avoid being angry with it or while using it.  You can think of your Tarot deck as an extension of yourself if you like.  Some readers treat their decks as people, others as cherished objects.   If it is easier for you to do so, you can start talking to your Tarot deck directly.  Conversing with a Tarot deck is not mandatory but it does help to establish the firm foundation of a bond between you and your best intuitive tool, your Tarot deck.  If you do not take your Tarot deck seriously, it will not take your questions, concerns or inquiries seriously.  You would not laugh in the face of a trusted friend when you requested their advice.  Do not treat your Tarot deck as a mere set of playing cards.  Respect your deck and your deck will take care of all your spiritual needs for countless years to come!

Secondly, take the time to bond with your Tarot deck every day.  You may want to wrap it in a specially designated cloth and store it in a certain box or bag just for your deck.  I recommend once your deck is wrapped and stored that you sleep with it under your pillow for at least one month.  This method allows your Tarot deck to become in tune with your unconscious mind, your dream self, and your dream state.  You are encouraged to use it as often as you like when awake during the Month of Dreaming.  Simply spend time with your deck.  You can hold them in your left hand as you meditate, if you practice mediation daily.  Always use your left hand when connecting to the Tarot as the left hand represents your unconscious mind.

Notice that I have listed certain types of activities here for you to use to connect with your Tarot deck.  You will want to be in the right frame of mind when you are forming a bond with your deck.  Just as you would not mistreat a friend do not mistreat your Tarot deck.  Only use it when you are in the mood to consult with the Tarot.  If you are hurt, angry, tired, or sick do not use your deck.  This is because you are not in a clear frame of mind during these times to hear the advice your Tarot deck would impart to you.  It is very easy to dismiss good, intelligent advice because you are not at your best.  Your Tarot deck will understand if you need a day, or two, off from seeking advice.

Similarly, do not use the Tarot if you are not clearly focused, or mentally sharp.  That means if you like to enjoy a nightly drink or a cigarette do not use the Tarot while imbibing or when you are need of a nicotine fix.  For the same reason you would not consult your Tarot deck when sad or tired.  You are not able to focus on, or interpret,  the message your deck would give to you. at these times.  Know your body’s limits and plan accordingly when making a daily schedule for connecting with your Tarot deck.  Your deck has spent time with you; it understands your needs and limitations well.  If you heed your own limits and needs you will find that the Tarot will respect you all the more and will cherish your bond and connection all the more dearly.

The Tarot can be your best, most trusted, friend or it can be your worst enemy.  Treat your deck with respect.  Make the time to connect with your Tarot deck whether through One Card readings, sleeping with your deck, meditating with your deck, or through prayer.  Most importantly, come to the Tarot fully present and ready to engage yourself seriously in the task of building a life-long friendship with the best friend you will ever have, your intuition!