Lesson 10: Tarot for Relationships
Let’s be real: when someone hears you read tarot, the first question is often about relationships. “Do they love me?” “Are we soulmates?” “Is this going anywhere?” Tarot can absolutely help shed light on patterns, feelings, and potential directions in love—if you approach it with curiosity, honesty, and realistic expectations.
Why Use Tarot for Relationships?
Tarot is not a magic 8 ball (sorry, nostalgia fans). But it can help you:
- Reflect on your relationship dynamics
- Understand your own needs and blind spots
- Identify patterns (good or bad) in partnerships
- Get clarity before big conversations or decisions
- Spot opportunities for growth—solo or together
Tarot won’t tell you if your ex will text at 3 AM, but it can help you understand why you care.
Case Study: “Should I Stay or Should I Go?”
One of my clients, let’s call her Jamie, came to me torn about her long-term partnership. She wasn’t looking for a yes/no answer—she wanted to understand what was really playing out. Together, we used a simple tarot spread (shared below), which helped her see her needs and fears more clearly. She didn’t break up on the spot, but she did have a much more honest talk with her partner that week.
“Tarot didn’t tell me what to do—it just helped me see what I was avoiding. That changed everything.”
How to Do a Relationship Tarot Reading in 15 Minutes
This isn’t about candles and chanting (unless you want that). Here’s a practical, no-BS guide you can use solo or with a partner. Set aside 15 minutes, grab your deck, and let’s go:
Materials
- Your favorite tarot deck (see beginner decks on Amazon)
- Pen and paper (or notes app)
- A quiet space (bonus: tea or coffee)
Step-by-Step Relationship Spread (The “You, Me, Us” Spread)
Card 1: You — Your needs, desires, or role in the relationship.
Card 2: Them — Their needs, desires, or perspective (as you see it, or with their input).
Card 3: Us — The dynamic or what you create together.
Card 4: Challenge — What’s blocking deeper connection or growth.
Card 5: Advice — What can help move things forward (or bring needed clarity).
- Shuffle your deck while thinking about the relationship or question.
- Lay out five cards in a row.
- Turn them over, one at a time, and jot down your gut reactions before checking any guidebook.
- If reading with a partner, take turns sharing your interpretations—no interrupting!
Pro tip: If you get a “scary” card, pause. Ask yourself: what story am I telling about this? Sometimes, a tough card is just a nudge to have a necessary conversation.
Sample Reading
- You: 9 of Swords (worry/anxiety)
- Them: The Emperor (structure, boundaries)
- Us: 2 of Cups (genuine connection!)
- Challenge: 5 of Pentacles (feeling left out)
- Advice: Page of Cups (open up emotionally, even if awkward)
Interpretation: You may be overthinking, they might seem emotionally distant, but your bond is real. The challenge is feeling secure. The advice? Share how you feel—even if it’s vulnerable.
Quick Tarot Spreads for Love & Partnership
| Name | Key Feature | Cards Needed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| You, Me, Us | Get a snapshot of the relationship | 5 | Any stage, solo or together |
| Past, Present, Future | See how things have evolved | 3 | Reflecting on dynamics |
| What’s Blocking Us? | Identify hidden obstacles | 3-5 | Stuck or repeating patterns |
| Building Trust | Focus on healing and growth | 4 | Rebuilding after conflict |
Best Tarot Decks for Relationship Readings
Not all decks vibe the same! Here are some honest picks, with pros, cons, and who’ll love them:
| Name | Key Feature | Size/Material | Price Range | Amazon Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Modern Witch Tarot | Inclusive, contemporary art | Standard, sturdy cardstock | $$ | See today’s deal |
| Light Seer’s Tarot | Emotional, intuitive imagery | Standard, matte finish | $$ | Check price on Amazon |
| Radiant Rider-Waite | Classic, easy to read | Standard, glossy | $ | Shop on Amazon |
- Modern Witch Tarot: Great for anyone who wants inclusive, modern visuals. Pro: Uplifting. Con: Bold colors aren’t for everyone.
- Light Seer’s Tarot: Fantastic for intuitive, emotional readings. Pro: Gorgeous art. Con: Some cards are abstract.
- Radiant Rider-Waite: Ideal for beginners. Pro: Easy to learn. Con: Very traditional.
Checklist: 15-Minute Relationship Tarot Session
- Set a clear question or intention
- Pick your spread (see above)
- Shuffle and draw cards, focusing on your question
- Note your first impressions (don’t overthink!)
- Look up meanings if needed, but trust your gut
- Discuss or journal what comes up—especially feelings
- Decide on one small action or conversation to try this week
Tools & Resources
- Light Seer’s Tarot Deck (Amazon)
- Biddy Tarot Card Meanings (free online guide)
- Tarot.com Sample Spreads (for more layouts)
- Labyrinthos Tarot App (iOS/Android, for digital readings)
When NOT to Use Tarot for Relationships
- To “test” your partner behind their back (trust issues need real talk, not cards)
- For decisions about safety, abuse, or legal issues (call a professional, not your deck)
- To avoid honest communication
- As the only tool for working on your relationship
Remember: Tarot is a spotlight, not a judge. Use it to get curious, not to assign blame.
Try It for Yourself!
Next time you’re feeling stuck or curious about your love life, try a 15-minute tarot check-in. Whether you’re single, partnered, or “it’s complicated,” a simple spread can bring surprising insights—and sometimes a little humor, too.
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