Thinking of booking your first-ever tarot reading in Cincinnati? If you’re just curious or feeling stuck or open to a new perspective, tarot can be a really empowering process of reflection, reset and redirect to oneself.
If you are a complete beginner, it’s completely natural to be curious. What’s it going to be like? What will happen? And do you even need to be a “believer”? Don’t worry.
This introduction to tarot consists of everything you need to know before scheduling a time to meet with a tarot reader so you step in feeling curious and confident.
Why People Turn to Tarot
Tarot card reading is not all about telling what-is-what and a fixed destiny! It’s a way for you to reflect and tap into your own wisdom and knowing.
If you’re going through big life shifts, trying to make a tough call, or feeling majorly confused, a reading can help you get at the heart of what’s really going on, below the surface — and what needs to be done.
Understanding Tarot Cards
A tarot deck has 78 cards, and they are heavy with symbols and meaning. They’re split into:
- Major Arcana – Consider broad themes and lessons for life.
- Minor Arcana – These are more about everyday things that happen and feelings.
When reading, how the cards lay out in a spread (and interact) assists your reader in interpreting the message that’s intended for you.
7 Things to Know Before Your First Tarot Reading
1. You Don’t Have to “Believe” in Tarot
You don’t need to be spiritually inclined or “all in” for tarot to be beneficial to you. View it as a thinking tool—something that urges you to examine your life in a new way.
You can enter here with skepticism, curiosity, or simply an open mind. You may find how much the tarot cards speak to your current circumstances.
2. The Reader Will Set the Tone
When you get to your session, either in person or virtually, the reader will walk you through what happens. They will ask you what area you want to focus on (love, career, family, etc.) and describe the process of how the readings will go.
An experienced tarot reader in Cincinnati will be mindful that you are comfortable, heard, and understood—especially if you are new to reading tarot.
3. It’s More of a Dialogue Than a Fortune Telling
A tarot reading is not a person telling you what your future is and you sitting there quietly. It’s a dialogue. You will be included in the conversation, and your reader will make the session in response to your energy and what arises.
Ask questions. Share your thoughts. The more open you are, the more personal and beneficial the reading is.
4. Tarot Gives Direction—Not Set Forecasts
Something to keep in mind: tarot card sessions aren’t about “this is going to happen.”
Instead, it shows you potential based on your current trajectory. Imagine it like a map: it indicates the paths before you, but you’re still behind the wheel.
You will always have free will. The cards exist to guide you to make wiser decisions, not dictate your destiny.
5. It May Get a Little Emotional—And That’s Alright
Tarot card sessions can get deep. Occasionally the cards indicate emotions or habits you haven’t resolved yet. You may have a couple “aha” moments—or even get a bit teary.
Totally normal. Many people leave their first reading feeling lighter, clearer, and more connected to themselves.
6. Each Reader Has Their Own Style
No two tarot readers are alike. Some are all about answering specific questions and doing short readings (20–30 minutes), while others are more general and take an hour or more exploring various aspects of your life.
Readings can also be done in-person, Zoom, or even by phone. Just ask what the format is when you schedule your reading to see what works for you.
7. Give Yourself Time to Process Afterwards
After you read, take a couple of moments to just sit with what came to you. Some people choose to journal or meditate on it. Some talk it out with a friend. Do what feels useful to you in your processing.
You do not need to do something with every insight right away, but the sense you made might last longer than you think.
How to Prepare for Your First Reading
You don’t really have to do anything, but it never hurts to prepare a little bit.
- Consider what you wish to ask or investigate.
- Dress comfortably.
- If online, choose a quiet area where you can concentrate.
- Most importantly, just bring an open mind.
Tips for Finding the Right Tarot Reader
Look for reviews– Positive reviews from others are a good sign of how reputable and effective the reader might be
Find someone who is gentle & compassionate– You want to be supported when you go to your reading so you feel safe and open
Find a tarot reader who specializes in the area you want to focus on – Whether it is love, career, family or spirituality, choose someone who specializes in your area(s) of interest.
Ask how their process works– Ask some questions before booking if you want to clarify how someone’s sessions work.
Connect with the reader – The vibe or “chemistry” you share will have an impact during a reading.
Are You Ready to Begin Your Path?
Your initial tarot reading can be a transformational experience — one that brings clarity, confidence, and even healing.
If you’re in Cincinnati and curious about tarot, you should definitely check out booking a reading with Ed Kluska. He is a professional astrologer in Cincinnati, Ohio and only does astrology and tarot, so he can provide a quality experience for you.
If you’re curious, in need of some emotional insight or wanting a fresh perspective, Ed’s method will leave you feeling seen, heard and empowered.
Take the leap. You can book a reading online now by calling at (513) 861-6100 or emailing at info@edkluska.com
Let the tarot cards guide you.
Ed Kluska
B.S. Physics
M.S. Psychology
C.A. Certified Astrologer
Meditation Teacher
54 Years in Practice
