I always recommend setting the stage before any reading in order to get the most out of it.
- Clear your space (using sound is a great way to do this)
- Ground (a quick meditation rooting yourself down into the earth and connecting to true source)
- Light a white candle, if you can
- Call in your team of guides/angels/helpers, asking for the most helpful and constructive information to come forward
- I like to knock 3 times on my deck to clear it before I start shuffling!
- Hold the question in your mind as you shuffle
- I personally love to write out my questions ahead of time in my journal and number them, so that it is very clear which card relates to which question.
Oh and, have a plan on how to treat jumpers (those super active cards that pop out when you shuffle) before you start!
Having a clear intention for them before you begin can help keep the reading clear.
Then journal, take notes on your reading and maybe even a photo to refer back to. (I made tarot and oracle stickers for this exact purpose! It's an easy way to track your readings and card pulls.)
At the end, close out your reading by thanking your helpers, and placing the cards back into their box for safe keeping.