Step 1: Prepare Your Space And Shuffle The Cards
Find a quiet space. Focus on your question or intention. Thoroughly shuffle your tarot deck while concentrating on this focus.
Step 2: Lay Out The First Five Cards In A Cross
Draw the first five cards. Place them in this order to form a cross:
- Card 1 (Center): Place this card in the center. This is the "Heart of the Matter" card.
- Card 2: Place this card horizontally over Card 1. This card represents a "Challenge" crossing you.
- Card 3: Place this card above the center. This is the "Basis" or distant past.
- Card 4: Place this card below the center. This is the "Recent Past".
- Card 5: Place this card to the left of the center. This is the "Crowning" or possible future.
Step 3: Lay Out The Final Five Cards In A Staff
Draw the next five cards. Place them in a vertical line to the right of the cross:
- Card 6 (Bottom of Staff): Place this first. This is the "Immediate Future".
- Card 7: Place this above Card 6. This card represents "Yourself" or your attitude.
- Card 8: Place this above Card 7. This is the "Environment" or others' influences.
- Card 9: Place this above Card 8. This card shows "Hopes and Fears".
- Card 10 (Top of Staff): Place this last. This is the "Final Outcome".
Step 4: Interpret The Cross Cards (Positions 1-5)
Read the cross cards together. They show the core situation. Card 1 is the central issue. Card 2 is what complicates it. Cards 3, 4, and 5 show the timeline of influences leading to the present moment.
Step 5: Interpret The Staff Cards (Positions 6-10)
Read the staff cards in ascending order. They reveal the unfolding path. Start with your immediate future (Card 6), move through your role and external forces (Cards 7-9), and finish with the potential result (Card 10).
Step 6: Synthesize The Full Story
Look for connections between the cross and the staff. Notice repeating symbols, numbers, or suits. Let the cards converse with each other to form a complete narrative about your question.
Step 7: Reflect And Record Your Reading
Write down the cards, positions, and your interpretations. Journal how the reading resonates with your situation. This builds your intuitive skills and provides a reference.
