How To Pull A Single Tarot Card For Quick Insight Anytime You Need It

However, if you're short on time or just beginning to dip your toes into tarot, there's also the ever-reliable one-card pull. Here's why pulling a single tarot card can be helpful, plus how to do it so you're getting the most from every reading.

Over time, you'll also learn the meanings of each card. "Learning one at a time on a regular basis is a long game but definitely worth it," she adds.

"That focus helps deepen your knowledge of the card—and can highlight the way its themes are showing up in your life in ways you might not initially have thought, or if it was in a larger spread," she adds.

And of course, one-card pulls make for simple, quick readings! More in-depth spreads can take quite some time, but if you have one simple question you want answered or could use some general guidance for the day ahead, one card may be all you need.

Before beginning the actual reading, Vanderveldt suggests tuning into your body. "Whether through a one-minute body scan, breathing exercise, or meditation," she says, "it's important to first come home to yourself." In addition to that, she adds you can also call in any spirit guides, angels, goddesses, your highest self, or any other force you look to for guidance. You can also take a moment to cleanse your deck if you think it might need a refresh.

"When you're ready to pick up your deck, shuffle with your question in mind," Vanderveldt says. Once you feel called to stop, choose a card, and turn it over. "Select your card from the top, bottom, or middle of the deck—none of that matters, as long as it feels right to you," she adds.

Most decks also come with a small booklet with the divinatory meanings of each card. But the beautiful thing about tarot is it helps the unconscious come forward! So try to reflect on your personal interpretation of the card first, before you reference the book.

If you're looking to do a one-card pull but aren't sure where to start (or what to ask) here are some simple but insightful questions to consider, according to Vanderveldt:

Some days you may want to deep dive into a large and lengthy spread, but others, you may be looking for something a bit quicker or simpler, and a one-card pull is a great solution. Not only that, but it's a great way to start getting in touch with a particular card and what it means. So, next time you have one question about your life or present circumstances, go ahead and ask the cards—you may be surprised what you can get out of just one.