In my honest opinion, the power of the Tarot comes from the relationship that you form with it. If you treat the cards like their toys, then they'll act like toys and not give you accurate readings. But if you treat them with the respect that you would show a wise crone, then they will be more than happy to give you accurate readings and advice.
But how should one go about 'respecting' their Tarot cards.
Well, upkeep is one of them. Make sure that they are in a bag or wrapped in cloth of some sort, to protect them from water damage and other possible sources of damage.
When I have smudges of dirt and stuff on them, I take a lightly damp cloth and carefully clean this spot off. (Be careful with how much water you apply to any form of card, too much will soak and warp it, making it unusable).
I like to make specialty bags for my Tarot, one that seems to fit the personality of the cards. (I try not to use cheap fabrics like felt for them, but its honestly what you feel would be best)
I always suggest sleeping with your cards underneath your pillow for at least 1 night. I slept with my most accurate deck for 3 nights.
When doing readings, greet your cards like you would a good friend, in your mind. I start with 'Hail good friend, I have some advice that I would like to ask of you' Not to sound crazy, but the cards always respond with something similar to 'What is it that you wish to ask?'
Before I started readings with my Tarot cards, I consecrated a quartz crystal to protect the cards and allow more accurate readings. I kept this crystal with the cards for a while, (I admit, I took it to use for my childbirth, and then after, I am going to replace it to the cards. But I 'told' the cards of this and they were fine with it.) but I suggest getting a quartz point, no matter how big or small (I like the small ones because they fit into the pouch with the cards)
I also like to offer incense to my cards. To do this, I waft the incense around the cards, and say something similar to 'I offer this fine incense to you. May it appeal to you'
Shuffle your cards often, and pull random cards. Say aloud the meaning of this card and what it relates to in your life. Say you pull the Ace of Wands, and you wish to open an art gallery. You would then say the traditional meaning, and that it relates to you because you wish to open an art gallery. Then shuffle and pull another.
And always, when reading your cards and you feel that the traditional meaning isn't what the cards are trying to say, listen to your inner voice and that of the cards, also.
I hope this helps anyone thats having a hard time getting accurate readings.
