Shuffling tarot cards is one of the most essential steps in any tarot reading. It may seem simple, but the way you shuffle your deck connects you to the energies of the reading, preparing the cards to offer clear guidance and insight. For beginners, shuffling might feel a bit awkward at first, especially if the cards are larger than typical playing cards or if you’re handling them for the first time. In this guide, we’ll go over different techniques for shuffling tarot cards, including tips for beginners, those with small hands, and anyone looking to connect with their cards on a deeper level. Discover What is Tarot?.
Why is Shuffling Tarot Cards Important?
Shuffling is more than just mixing the cards; it’s a moment to clear your mind, focus on your question, and allow the deck to organize itself with the energies surrounding your inquiry. The process helps set the intention for the reading, aligning the cards with the question at hand. Proper shuffling also ensures that each reading remains fresh and relevant, even if you’ve used the deck recently.
Choosing the Right Shuffling Technique for You
There’s no «right» or «wrong» way to shuffle tarot cards; the key is finding a method that feels comfortable and meaningful to you. Some popular techniques include:
- Overhand Shuffle
This is the most beginner-friendly method and is often ideal for those with small hands or those new to tarot. To do an overhand shuffle, hold the deck in one hand and use the other to pull small sections of cards from the back and place them in the front. Repeat this process several times until the cards feel sufficiently mixed. - Riffle Shuffle
The riffle shuffle, familiar from traditional card games, involves splitting the deck in half and using your thumbs to “bridge” the two halves back together. Although it’s fast and effective, it can be tricky with tarot cards due to their size and stiffness. This technique may not be ideal for everyone, especially if your deck is brand new or if you have smaller hands, but it can be mastered with practice. - Cutting the Deck
If shuffling feels challenging, simply cut the deck into multiple stacks and reassemble them in a different order. You can do this by setting the deck down and splitting it into three or more piles, then stacking them back together in any order you prefer. This method is simple, preserves the integrity of your cards, and is also a great option for beginners. - The Wash or Chaos Shuffle
This method is perfect for those who find traditional shuffling awkward or for those shuffling a deck for the very first time. Spread the cards face-down across a flat surface and “wash” them around in circular motions to mix them. Once they’re sufficiently shuffled, gather them into a single stack. This technique is effective and adds a fun, meditative element to the process. - Fan Shuffle
The fan shuffle involves fanning out the cards in a wide arc or circle on a table, then selecting cards by intuitively picking the ones that call to you. This is an excellent method for those looking to strengthen their intuition and who want each card selection to feel deliberate.
How to Shuffle Tarot Cards for Beginners
For beginners, the most important thing is to focus on connecting with your deck and setting the intention for your reading. Here are some beginner-friendly tips to help you get started:
- Take Your Time: Don’t rush. Take a few moments to center yourself, think about your question, and shuffle with a calm, focused mind.
- Set an Intention: Before shuffling, mentally or verbally state your question or focus for the reading. This helps ensure that your energy and attention are directed toward the answers you’re seeking.
- Practice Regularly: If you’re new to tarot or find shuffling awkward, practicing daily can help you feel more comfortable with your deck. Familiarity with the cards will make the process feel more natural.
- Experiment with Different Techniques: Try several of the shuffling methods outlined above to find one that works best for you. The more you practice, the easier and more intuitive it will feel.
Shuffling for Small Hands
If you have small hands and struggle with shuffling, here are a few tips that might help:
- Use Smaller Decks: Some tarot decks come in smaller sizes, which can be easier to handle. Mini tarot decks are a popular choice for those with smaller hands.
- Break the Deck in Half: Shuffling half of the deck at a time, then combining the two halves, can make it easier to manage the cards.
- Use the Overhand Shuffle: This shuffle is ideal for smaller hands, as it involves pulling cards from the back and placing them in the front without needing to handle the entire deck at once.
- Practice with a Regular Deck First: Getting comfortable with shuffling using a regular playing card deck can be helpful, as it builds muscle memory for handling cards without the added size and stiffness of a tarot deck.
How to Shuffle Tarot Cards for the First Time
When shuffling your tarot deck for the first time, you may want to perform a cleansing ritual to set the deck’s intention. This could involve:
- Saging or Smudging the Deck: Pass the deck through the smoke of burning sage, incense, or palo santo to cleanse it of any residual energy and prepare it for your unique energy.
- Meditating with the Deck: Spend a few moments holding the deck in your hands, visualizing a connection between yourself and the cards. Picture your energy merging with the deck, setting the foundation for future readings.
- Performing a Ritual Shuffle: Some people enjoy performing an intentional shuffle for the first use, spending extra time with the cards to feel each one and become familiar with the deck’s energy. You might try the wash shuffle or another meditative method for this initial shuffle.
Connecting with Your Deck: The Power of Intentional Shuffling
One of the most beautiful aspects of tarot is the bond between reader and deck. Treating shuffling as a meditative, intentional ritual can deepen this connection, making each reading more meaningful. Whether you have small hands, are new to tarot, or are simply looking for ways to improve your technique, remember that shuffling is a personal experience. Embrace the process; with practice, you’ll find the technique that best allows you to connect with the cards and receive the guidance they hold.
How Long to Shuffle Tarot Cards?
There’s no specific rule for how long to shuffle your tarot cards. Many readers shuffle until they feel an intuitive nudge to stop, while others might have a set number of shuffles they perform. If you’re new to tarot, experiment with shuffling for 30 seconds to a minute, focusing on your question as you go. Over time, you’ll learn to recognize when the deck feels “ready.”
Additional Tips for Successful Shuffling
- Keep Your Deck Clean and Protected: Tarot cards are sensitive to energy, so store them in a safe, clean place when not in use. Some readers wrap their decks in cloth or keep them in a special box.
- Stay Present and Grounded: Shuffling works best when your mind is calm and your focus is clear. Take a deep breath, relax, and approach the process with an open mind.
- Handle Your Deck Regularly: The more you use and handle your deck, the more attuned it becomes to your energy. Handling the deck frequently, even when you’re not reading, can strengthen the connection between you and your cards.
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: To make the most of a reading, ask questions that encourage insightful answers. Instead of “Will I get the job?” try “What do I need to know about my career path?”
- Use Crystals or Sage for Extra Energy Cleansing: For those who work with crystals, keeping stones like amethyst or clear quartz near your deck can help keep the cards’ energy clear.
Final Thoughts on Shuffling Tarot Cards
Learning to shuffle tarot cards is an essential part of becoming comfortable with tarot reading. The process not only ensures that the cards are prepared but also serves as a bridge between reader and cards, aligning you with the messages within the deck. As you experiment with different techniques, you’ll develop your own shuffling ritual that feels right, helping you connect to your cards and create meaningful readings.
Remember, there’s no single “correct” way to shuffle. The best approach is the one that feels natural and helps you engage with your deck. So whether you’re a beginner, have small hands, or are handling tarot cards for the first time, embrace shuffling as a way to deepen your connection with the tarot. Enjoy each shuffle, stay open to the insights, and let the cards speak.
