10 Tarot Spreads for Self-Care

Have you been feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or just in need of a little self-care? Tarot spreads may be just what you need. These powerful tools can help you uncover insights, gain clarity, and bring a sense of peace and balance to your life. But what exactly are tarot spreads, and how can they improve your self-care routine? In this article, we will explore the world of tarot spreads, and share 10 spreads specifically designed to enhance your self-care practice. Whether you’re new to tarot or a seasoned pro, these spreads are sure to bring a fresh perspective and help you prioritize your own well-being. Let’s dive in.

What are Tarot Spreads?

If you’ve been curious about tarot but aren’t sure where to start, you may have come across the term tarot spreads. In short, tarot spreads are the way the cards are laid out during a tarot reading, each position representing a different aspect of the question or situation. There are countless tarot spreads for various purposes, from career planning (like this one) to love (like this), healing (like this), and manifestation (like this). In this section, we’ll explore what tarot spreads are and how they can be used for self-care, specifically.

Spreads vs. Readings

Spreads vs. Readings:

It is important to understand the difference between tarot spreads and tarot readings before delving into the world of tarot for self-care. While the terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same thing.

1. Tarot spreads refer to the way in which the tarot cards are laid out for a reading. A spread can be as simple as a one-card pull, or as complex as the Celtic Cross spread. Different spreads are used for different purposes, such as decision making, problem solving, or gaining insight into a specific situation.
2. Tarot readings, on the other hand, refer to the interpretation of the cards. During a reading, the cards are laid out in a specific spread and their meanings are interpreted to give insight into a question or situation.

When using tarot for self-care, you will typically be using a tarot spread rather than getting a full tarot reading. This is because tarot spreads are specifically designed to address specific areas of your life, making them perfect for self-reflection and personal growth.

There are many popular tarot spreads that can be used for self-care, such as the Decision Making and Problem Solving spread, the Astrology and Tarot Spread combined, and the Challenges and Obstacles spread. However, for the purpose of this article, we will be discussing 10 tarot spreads specifically designed to help you improve your self-care routine.

How to Use Tarot Spreads for Self-Care

Using tarot spreads for self-care is a powerful way to gain insight into your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It can also help you identify areas of your life that need attention and provide guidance for self-improvement. Before choosing a tarot spread, it’s important to set an intention for your self-care practice. Determine what you want to achieve from the spread and what type of guidance you’re seeking. Once you have set your intention, you can choose from a variety of tarot spreads like:

• Popular tarot spreads
• Tarot spreads for decision-making and problem-solving
• Celtic Cross tarot guide
• Astrology tarot spreads combined
• Tarot spreads for challenges and obstacles

Once you’ve selected a spread, take some time to shuffle your deck and focus on your intention. By doing this, we ensure that the cards that we pull from the deck reflect our needs accurately. While interpreting the cards, try to stay open-minded and avoid getting caught up in negative interpretations. Tarot is not meant to predict our future; instead, it provides guidance and insight that can be used in our self-care practice.

It’s essential to approach each spread with curiosity and openness, as it will help us gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our lives. Start incorporating tarot spreads into your daily self-love routine and be amazed at how much clarity, healing, and growth can come from it. Remember, the most important thing is to be kind to yourself and stay committed to your self-care practice.

10 Tarot Spreads for Self-Care

Now it’s time to explore the different Tarot spreads that can help you improve your self-care routine. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, or simply in need of inner guidance, these spreads offer powerful tools for self-reflection and personal growth. Each spread features a unique layout and set of cards, designed to address specific aspects of your well-being and provide insights on how to nourish your mind, body, and soul. Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and healing? Let’s dive into the world of Tarot spreads!

1. The Self-Care Check-In Spread

One of the most important aspects of any self-care routine is taking the time to check in with yourself regularly. The Self-Care Check-In Spread is a Tarot spread that can help you do just that. This spread consists of four cards, each of which corresponds to a different area of your life that may be affecting your overall well-being.

To begin, shuffle your deck and focus on your intention to check in with yourself and prioritize your self-care. Then, lay out the cards in the following positions:

Card 1: Physical Well-Being	This card represents your physical health and well-being. It may reveal any areas of your body that need attention, or any habits or behaviors that may be affecting your health.
Card 2: Emotional State	This card represents your emotional state. It may reveal any suppressed emotions or unresolved issues that need to be addressed in order to improve your overall well-being.
Card 3: Mental State	This card represents your mental state. It may reveal any limiting beliefs or negative thought patterns that may be affecting your well-being, as well as any areas where you can focus on personal growth and development.
Card 4: Spiritual Connection	This card represents your spiritual connection, whether that be with a higher power, nature, or simply a connection to yourself. It may reveal any practices or rituals that can help you deepen this connection and prioritize your spiritual well-being.

Once you have laid out the cards, take some time to reflect on each one and journal about what comes up for you. Use the insights gained from this spread to make any necessary adjustments to your self-care routine and prioritize your overall well-being.

2. The Recharge and Reenergize Spread

The Recharge and Reenergize Spread is a Tarot spread that can help you assess your energy levels and determine areas in your life where you can focus on recharging and reenergizing. This spread can be particularly useful when you’re feeling drained or like you’re running on empty.

To begin the Recharge and Reenergize Spread, first ground yourself and focus on your breath. Shuffle your Tarot deck and draw the following cards:

Position	Card	Interpretation
1. Where am I currently expending most of my energy?	Card 1	Interpretation of Card 1
2. What area of my life is in need of the most energy?	Card 2	Interpretation of Card 2
3. What can I do to recharge my energy levels?	Card 3	Interpretation of Card 3
4. What action can I take to reenergize myself?	Card 4	Interpretation of Card 4
5. What is blocking me from feeling energized?	Card 5	Interpretation of Card 5
6. What is the potential outcome of recharging and reenergizing?	Card 6	Interpretation of Card 6

Card 1 will help you identify which areas of your life you are currently expending the most energy on, and may highlight areas where you need to set boundaries.

Card 2 will guide you to the area of your life that is in the most need of energy. This can help you prioritize where to focus your self-care efforts.

Card 3 will suggest ways in which you can recharge your energy levels. This may involve taking a break or doing something that brings you joy.

Card 4 will provide guidance on what specific action you can take to reenergize yourself. This may involve setting a boundary or taking steps towards achieving a goal.

Card 5 will help you identify any blocks that are preventing you from feeling energized. This may be a limiting belief or a pattern of behavior that is draining your energy.

Card 6 will provide insight into the potential outcome of recharging and reenergizing yourself. This may include feeling more motivated, productive, and focused.

Using the Recharge and Reenergize Spread can help you gain clarity on where to focus your energy and how to replenish your resources. Remember to take action on the guidance provided by your Tarot reading and make time for self-care in your routine.

3. The Mind, Body, and Spirit Spread

One insightful tarot spread for prioritizing overall self-care is the Mind, Body, and Spirit spread. This spread is designed to connect with the three major aspects of an individual and analyze how they currently align with each other. It aims to provide clarity on where the person stands in each area and what they can do to strengthen the connection between them.

To perform the Mind, Body, and Spirit spread, first shuffle the tarot deck while focusing on the intention of the spread. Then, draw one card for each of the following three categories:

1. Mind: This card represents the person’s current state of mind and their mental health. It reveals what they need to focus on to improve their mental wellbeing and relieve stress or anxiety.

2. Body: This card symbolizes the person’s physical health and how they are taking care of their body. It indicates what actions the person can take to improve their health and wellbeing, such as through exercise or adjustments to their diet.

3. Spirit: This card signifies the person’s spiritual wellbeing and their connection to the universe. It helps to identify what routines or practices can be implemented to improve their spiritual health and feel more fulfilled.

Once all three cards are revealed, take a moment to reflect on how they relate to each other. Look for any patterns or themes that emerge and consider how they can be addressed to create more balance and harmony in the person’s life.

It is recommended to perform this spread regularly, such as once per week, as a tool for ongoing self-evaluation and to keep on track with self-improvement goals. By prioritizing the mind, body, and spirit and taking steps towards aligning them, individuals can achieve overall wellness and enhance their self-care routine.

4. The Empowerment Spread

The Empowerment Spread is a powerful tarot spread to use when you’re feeling stuck and need a push towards finding your strength and confidence. This spread will help you shift your focus from self-doubt to self-assurance, allowing you to feel more capable and ready to take on any challenge that comes your way.

Position	Meaning
1	What is holding me back from feeling empowered?
2	What strengths do I possess that can help me overcome these obstacles?
3	What actions can I take to start feeling more empowered?
4	What can I do to maintain this sense of empowerment?
5	What is the potential outcome if I embrace my power and confidence?

This spread encourages you to explore your inner self and address any limiting beliefs that may be hindering your growth. Position 1 allows you to identify the root cause of your lack of empowerment, while position 2 helps you recognize the strengths you have within you to overcome any obstacles.

With the information gained from positions 1 and 2, position 3 offers guidance on what actions you can take to start feeling more confident and cultivating a sense of personal empowerment. Position 4 provides insight into how you can maintain this newfound sense of strength and self-assurance.

Finally, position 5 reveals the potential outcome if you embrace your power and confidence, showing you what is possible when you believe in yourself and your abilities.

This tarot spread is an excellent tool for anyone who needs a boost in their confidence and wants to feel more empowered in their daily life. Use it regularly to overcome feelings of self-doubt and step into your full potential.

5. The Gratitude and Appreciation Spread

The Gratitude and Appreciation Spread is a perfect tarot spread for those who want to cultivate feelings of thankfulness and positivity towards themselves and their life. This spread consists of five cards that help you recognize the good things in your life and appreciate them. Here is how to use the Gratitude and Appreciation Spread:

1. What am I grateful for? This card represents the things in your life that you are grateful for. It can be anything – a person, a situation or an object that brings you joy and happiness. This card reminds you to appreciate the good things in your life and be thankful for them.
2. What have I accomplished? This card represents your past achievements and successes. It serves as a reminder of your strength and reminds you that you are capable of achieving great things. Celebrate your accomplishments and be proud of yourself.
3. What do I love about myself? This card represents the qualities and traits that you love about yourself. It is a reminder to practice self-love and appreciate yourself for who you are. Embrace your uniqueness and be proud of it.
4. What positive energies surround me? This card represents the positive energies and blessings that surround you in your life. It reminds you that you are never alone and that there are people who care about you. Recognize the good energies in your life and appreciate them.
5. What can I do to show gratitude and appreciation? This card represents the actions that you can take to show gratitude and appreciation in your life. It encourages you to pay it forward and spread positivity to others. Even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone else’s life.

The Gratitude and Appreciation Spread is a great way to shift your focus from what you lack to what you have. It helps you to appreciate the good things in your life and practice gratitude. By using this tarot spread regularly, you can cultivate positive feelings towards yourself and your life, and attract more positivity and abundance.

6. The Inner Wisdom Spread

The Inner Wisdom Spread is a powerful tool for connecting with your deepest self and accessing your inner wisdom. This spread consists of six cards that are divided into two rows of three cards each. The first row represents your current situation, and the second row represents your inner wisdom and guidance. Let’s dive deeper into the meaning of each card in this spread:

Card 1 (Present)	Card 2 (Challenges)	Card 3 (Advice)
Represents your current situation and what is currently on your mind.	Represents the challenges and obstacles that you may be facing in your current situation.	Represents the advice or guidance that you need to overcome the challenges and move forward.
Card 4 (Inner Wisdom)	Card 5 (Higher Self)	Card 6 (Action)
Represents your inner wisdom and the answers that you already have within yourself.	Represents the guidance and support from your higher self or spiritual guides.	Represents the action that you need to take in order to align with your inner wisdom and overcome the challenges.

The Inner Wisdom Spread can be especially helpful when you feel stuck or uncertain about a decision, as it helps you tap into your intuition and access the guidance you need to move forward. Remember to trust yourself and your inner wisdom, as it is always available to you.

7. The Self-Love Spread

The Self-Love Spread is a tarot spread that is focused on nurturing self-love and increasing self-acceptance. This spread has 5 cards that represent various aspects of self-care and promote positive self-talk. Here is how you can use the Self-Love Spread in your self-care routine:

Card Position	Card Meaning
1	The Root of Self-Love – this card represents the foundation of your self-love journey. It can indicate any past trauma or negative experiences that may be blocking self-love.
2	The Trunk of Self-Love – this card represents the current state of your self-love. It can indicate what actions or behaviors are currently supporting your self-love or hindering it.
3	The Branches of Self-Love – this card represents the areas of your life that can benefit from more self-love. It can indicate the specific areas where you need to focus your energy and attention.
4	The Leaves of Self-Love – this card represents the abundance that comes with self-love. It can indicate the positive outcomes and rewards that you will experience when you prioritize self-love.
5	The Blossoming of Self-Love – this card represents the growth that occurs when you cultivate self-love. It can indicate the potential for personal transformation and spiritual growth.

By using the Self-Love Spread in your self-care routine, you can gain insight into your relationship with yourself and develop a stronger connection to your inner wisdom. Remember, self-love is not selfish, it is necessary for overall well-being. Take the time to nurture yourself and prioritize self-love.

8. The New Beginnings Spread

The New Beginnings Spread utilizes six cards to help guide individuals towards a fresh start and new opportunities. This spread can be used when starting a new project or making a major life change. Below is a step-by-step guide to using the New Beginnings Spread:

When using this spread, take some time to focus on the new beginning and what it means to you. Shuffle the deck and lay out the cards in the order listed above. Take note of each card’s meaning and how it relates to the question at hand. Remember that even potential challenges can be viewed as opportunities for growth and learning. Use the advice given in the final card to help guide your actions and decisions moving forward on this new path.

9. The Boundaries and Protection Spread

The Boundaries and Protection Spread is a powerful tarot spread that can help you establish and reinforce healthy boundaries in your life. This spread is particularly useful for those who struggle with saying no, have difficulty setting limits or feel overwhelmed by the demands of others. Here are the steps to follow when using this spread:

1. Card One: Current Boundaries – This card represents your current boundaries. Take a moment to reflect on whether you have any boundaries in place and how effective they are.
2. Card Two: Boundaries You Need – This card represents the boundaries that you need to establish in order to feel safe and secure. It may be related to a particular situation, relationship, or aspect of your life.
3. Card Three: Obstacles to Establishing Boundaries – This card represents any obstacles or challenges that you may face when trying to establish or maintain healthy boundaries. This could be related to past experiences or patterns of behavior that need to be addressed.
4. Card Four: Protection – This card represents the protection that you need in order to maintain your boundaries. It could be related to a physical object or symbol, such as a crystal or amulet, or a personal practice such as visualization or meditation.

Remember that establishing healthy boundaries is an ongoing process and may take time and effort. This tarot spread can help bring awareness to areas where you need to improve your boundaries and give you the guidance and support you need to move forward. Take the insights you receive from this spread and use them to create healthy and empowering boundaries that support your well-being.

10. The Release and Let Go Spread

The “Release and Let Go Spread” is a powerful tarot spread that can help you release any emotional baggage that you may be carrying around with you. Here’s how to do it:

1. Card 1: What is currently weighing me down emotionally?
2. Card 2: What steps can I take to release this emotional weight?
3. Card 3: What is preventing me from letting go?
4. Card 4: What positive things will come into my life once I release this emotional baggage?
5. Card 5: What will my life look like once I have let go of this emotional weight?

Take the time to reflect on each card and its meaning. Try to be honest with yourself about what is weighing you down emotionally, and what steps you need to take to release this weight. Remember that letting go can be a difficult process, but it is necessary for your growth and well-being.

Once you have completed the spread, take some time to meditate or do a calming activity. You may also want to journal about your experience and any insights that you gained from the spread. Remember that self-care is a journey, and it’s okay to take things one step at a time.

Tips for Using Tarot Spreads for Self-Care

As you delve into using tarot spreads for self-care, you may find yourself seeking ways to enhance the experience. Here are some suggestions to help create a sacred and nurturing space for your tarot practice. These tips can further increase the benefits of tarot readings and provide a soothing atmosphere for your soulful journey.

1. Create a Self-Care Routine

Creating a self-care routine is essential to maintaining mental and emotional well-being. Here are some steps to help you get started:

• Identify your needs – Make a list of activities that help you relax and feel good. These can include things like taking a bath, going for a walk, or reading a book.
• Make time for yourself – Schedule time each week to do something that nourishes your soul. This can be as simple as taking a few minutes to meditate in the morning or evening.
• Get organized – Keep track of your self-care activities in a journal or planner. This will help you stay on track and make sure you’re taking care of yourself consistently.
• Stick to it – Creating a self-care routine is only effective if you make it a habit. Be consistent and committed to taking care of yourself, even when life gets busy or stressful.
• Adjust as needed – Your self-care routine may need to change over time as your needs and circumstances evolve. Be flexible and willing to adjust your routine as needed to stay happy and healthy.

By creating a self-care routine and committing to regular self-care practices, you can reduce stress, boost your mood, and improve your overall well-being. Remember that self-care is not selfish, it’s essential!

2. Use Crystals and Essential Oils

In addition to using tarot spreads for self-care, incorporating crystals and essential oils into your practice can enhance the experience. Crystals have long been known for their healing properties and can provide a sense of comfort and grounding during a tarot reading. Essential oils, on the other hand, have therapeutic benefits and can be used to set the mood and enhance relaxation.

When selecting crystals, consider the specific properties and energies they possess. For example, amethyst is known to promote calmness and relieve stress, while rose quartz is associated with love and compassion. Placing the crystals near you or holding them in your hand during a reading can help you tap into their energies and enhance your intuition. You can also use crystal grids or layouts to amplify their effects.

Likewise, when selecting essential oils, consider the specific scents and benefits they offer. Lavender is a popular choice for relaxation and stress relief, while peppermint can help with mental clarity and focus. Diffusing the oils or using them in a rollerball or spray bottle can create a soothing atmosphere and enhance the overall experience.

To help you select the right crystals and essential oils for your practice, refer to the table below:

Crystal	Properties
Amethyst	Calmness, stress relief, intuition
Clear Quartz	Clarity, energy amplification, manifestation
Citrine	Abundance, creativity, positivity
Rose Quartz	Love, compassion, emotional healing

Essential Oil	Benefits
Lavender	Relaxation, stress relief, sleep
Peppermint	Mental clarity, focus, invigoration
Lemon	Cleanliness, energy, mood-boosting
Bergamot	Calming, uplifting, anxiety relief

Using crystals and essential oils can add a new dimension to your self-care routine and enhance the experience of using tarot spreads. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for you, and don’t be afraid to incorporate other elements like candles, incense, or music to create a serene and meditative environment.

3. Light Candles or Incense

During a tarot self-care ritual, lighting candles or incense can enhance the overall atmosphere and help to create a calming and comforting environment. Using candles can help to create a warm and relaxing ambiance, while incense can purify the air and add an extra sense of spirituality to the experience.

When choosing candles or incense, consider the scents that will complement your self-care intentions. For example, lavender is known for its soothing properties and can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, while peppermint can help to invigorate the senses and promote mental clarity.

When lighting candles or incense, be sure to do so safely. Keep them away from any flammable objects and never leave them unattended. Consider using a candle holder or incense holder to minimize the risk of accidental fires.

In addition to providing a calming atmosphere, lighting candles or incense can also have a symbolic meaning. For example, lighting a white candle can symbolize purity and light, while burning sage incense can represent the act of cleansing and clearing negative energy. Always take a moment to consider the symbolism behind the scents and colors of the candles or incense you choose to use.

Incorporating candles or incense into your tarot self-care ritual can add an extra layer of relaxation and spirituality. However, always remember to be safe and intentional when using them.

4. Reflect and Journal Afterwards

It’s important to take some time after completing a tarot spread for self-care to reflect on the cards and journal about your experience. This allows you to dive deeper into the messages and insights you received during the reading. Here are some tips for reflecting and journaling:

• Find a Quiet Place: Choose a quiet and comfortable spot where you won’t be disturbed. It could be a cozy corner of your home or a peaceful outdoor space.
• Review Your Cards: Take another look at the cards you pulled and reflect on their meanings. What emotions and thoughts did they bring up for you?
• Ask Yourself Questions: Write down questions that come to mind as you reflect on the cards. Some examples might be “How can I apply this information to my self-care routine?” or “What steps can I take to improve my self-care practices?”
• Journal Your Insights: Use your questions as a guide and write freely about what comes up for you. Don’t worry about grammar or spelling, just allow your thoughts to flow onto the page.
• Set Intentions: Think about how you want to incorporate the insights and messages from the tarot spread into your self-care routine. Write down some actionable steps you can take.
• Gratitude: End your journaling session with a moment of gratitude. Write down three things that you’re thankful for in your life right now.

Reflecting and journaling after a tarot spread can help you gain clarity, perspective, and a deeper understanding of yourself. It’s a valuable practice to incorporate into your self-care routine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, incorporating tarot spreads into your self-care routine can be a powerful tool for personal growth and introspection. By using these spreads, you can gain clarity, insight, and inspiration for your life journey.

It’s important to remember that tarot is not a substitute for professional therapy or medical treatment, and should be used as a complementary tool for enhancing your self-care practices.

Whether you’re new to tarot or a seasoned practitioner, there are many different spreads that can cater to your unique needs and intentions. Experiment with different spreads and see which ones resonate with you the most.

Don’t be afraid to make your tarot practice your own by incorporating other self-care rituals such as crystals, essential oils, candles, and journaling. These added elements can enhance the overall experience and create a sacred space for you to connect with your intuition and higher self.

Remember, self-care is not selfish. Taking care of yourself emotionally, mentally, and physically is essential for your well-being and overall happiness. So take some time for yourself, grab your tarot deck, and explore the endless possibilities for self-discovery and growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Tarot Spreads Replace Therapy?

No, tarot spreads cannot replace therapy. However, tarot spreads can be used as a supplement to therapy for self-reflection and self-care.

2. Do I Need to Be Experienced with Tarot to Use These Spreads?

No, you do not need to be experienced with tarot to use these spreads. Each spread is designed for beginners and includes instructions on how to use them effectively.

3. How Often Should I Use Tarot Spreads for Self-Care?

The frequency of using tarot spreads for self-care is up to you. It can be beneficial to use them daily, weekly, or whenever you feel the need for inner reflection and self-care.

4. Can I Use Any Tarot Deck for These Spreads?

Yes, you can use any tarot deck for these spreads. However, it is recommended to choose a deck that resonates with you and your self-care journey.

5. Do I Need to Cleanse My Tarot Deck Before Using These Spreads?

It is recommended to cleanse your tarot deck before each use, especially if you have not used it in a while. This helps clear any residual energy and improve the accuracy of your readings.

6. How Long Should I Spend on Each Spread?

The amount of time spent on each spread varies for each individual and their self-care needs. It is recommended to take your time and reflect on each card to gain the most benefit from the spread.

7. Can These Spreads Be Used for Manifestation?

While these spreads are not specifically designed for manifestation, they can be used as a tool for setting intentions and visualizing your desired future.

8. Do I Need to Follow the Spread Exactly or Can I Adjust It to My Needs?

While it is recommended to follow the spread instructions for the best results, you can adjust the spread to fit your specific self-care needs and preferences.

9. Can I Use These Spreads for Tarot Readings for Others?

While these spreads are designed for self-care, they can be adapted for tarot readings for others. However, it is important to ensure the other person is comfortable with the self-care aspect of the spread before using it.

10. How Can I Incorporate These Spreads into My Self-Care Routine?

You can incorporate these spreads into your self-care routine by choosing a regular time and place to use them, such as before bed or in a quiet space. You can also pair them with other self-care practices, such as meditation or aromatherapy.

References

• A 10 Card Tarot Spread for Self Growth and Personal …
• Tarot – Wikipedia