Every tarot reader has their own rhythm, but for many of us, setting a ritual before a reading helps to clear the space, calm the mind, and invite guidance in. Ritual doesn’t have to be elaborate — it can be as simple as lighting a candle or shuffling your cards with intention. What matters is that you feel grounded, centred, and connected.

---

Why Ritual Matters

When we pause before picking up the cards, we’re sending a message to ourselves (and the universe) that this moment is special. Rituals create a bridge between the everyday and the sacred. They help us tune into intuition, silence distractions, and step into the flow of guidance.

---

Candles: Firelight for Focus

Lighting a candle is one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to mark the start of a reading. The flame represents clarity, inspiration, and spirit. Many readers choose candles in specific colours:

• White for purity and clear vision.

• Black for protection and grounding.

• Red or Orange for energy and passion.

• Green for healing and growth.

Even a small tealight can shift the atmosphere, drawing your focus into the present moment.

---

Incense: Scent for Cleansing

Incense has been used in spiritual practice for centuries. The gentle smoke clears away stagnant energy, allowing space for insight to flow. Some favourite scents among tarot readers include:

• White Sage — purification and fresh beginnings.

• Frankincense — spiritual connection and blessing.

• Sandalwood — grounding and calm.

• Lavender — peace and relaxation.

Choose what feels right to you. If smoke isn’t an option, essential oil sprays or even a favourite candle scent can serve the same purpose.

---

Crystals: Anchors for Intuition

Crystals add another layer of energy to your tarot space. You might place a single stone on top of your deck, or arrange a small cluster around your reading cloth. A few that readers often reach for:

• Amethyst — enhances intuition and protects your space.

• Clear Quartz — clarity, focus, and amplification.

• Fluorite — balance and concentration.

• Tiger’s Eye — grounding and strength.

There’s no right or wrong — follow your instinct, and let the crystal that calls to you be the one you use.

---

Your Reading Cloth & Bag

Many tarot readers like to lay their cards on a dedicated cloth. This isn’t just practical (keeping your cards clean and safe) — it also defines your reading space, creating a “sacred circle” wherever you are. When you’re finished, your deck slips back into its pouch or bag, ready for next time.

---

Crafting Your Own Ritual

The beauty of tarot ritual is that it’s deeply personal. You might:

• Light a single candle and whisper a prayer.

• Burn incense while shuffling your deck.

• Hold a crystal in your hand as you ask your question.

• Lay your cards on a cloth and take three deep breaths.

Start simple, and let your ritual evolve with you. Over time, these small acts become powerful anchors that help you step instantly into a space of trust and intuition.

---

Tarot is more than just reading cards — it’s about creating moments of connection with yourself and the unseen. Whether you light a candle, choose a crystal, or simply close your eyes for a breath, your ritual is what makes the reading uniquely yours.