Tea Leaf Readings
with Jade Kyles

I would like to share one of my favourite divinatory tools - tea leaf reading! 
It is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon with friends.  As this type is reading is visual with the leaves, it is something you can focus on and allow messages, thoughts and feelings to flow. 

Also known as tasseomancy or tasseography. This involves reading and decoding leftover tea leaves, coffee grounds or wine sediments for symbols, pictures, omens or unusual patterns. Tea leaf reading is often associated with gypsies and in was popular in Victorian times. It can be traced back to Asia, Ancient Greece and the Middle East. 

Tools needed                                                                                               
☼  Loose tea      ☼  Hot water, napkin & spoon     ☼  Wide brimmed cup & saucer                       
☼  Teapot (optional)  ☼ Pointing stick (pen, skewer or whatever is handy) (optional)

Preparation for the reader                                                                                     
When working with any divisionary vessel you first protect and ground yourself. Ask for guidance from Spirit and your Guides.

Preparation for the seeker          
Add the tea to the cup and add water or pour from a tea pot. Have plenty of tea leaves in the cup. Allow tea to ‘seep” with the seeker holding the cup and thinking of their questions. When tea has cooled, relax and sip your tea, leaving a small amount in the water in the bottom with the tea leaves.  Pass the cup to the reader.

Reading and interpreting                                          
The reader will gently swirl the liquid in the cup allowing the tea leaves to “stick” to the inside of the cup. Place a napkin on the saucer and turn the cup upside down on the saucer. Leave upside down for a minute or so. Return the cup to its upright position.                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

We each have our own unique way of interpreting the leaves. A single leaf may be read, two or three grouped together or a whole lot may group together. Where they are on the cup is significant. Concentrate on the leaves. Allow your imagination to flow freely. 

Try and put your eyes into soft focus. This is likened to when you look at a hidden picture or puzzle. Look beyond what is right in front of you. This takes practice so don’t worry if it doesn’t come easily the first few times.

When I read the base of the cup is the past. The middle is the present and the top is the future. Any leaves on the outside of the cup are also significant. I often relate this to lost loved ones or major upheavals the seeker has been through (war etc). When looking at the leaves note what jumps out at you first. This is significant as usually what is most relevant to the seeker as this time.  Are the leaves to one side? Clumped heavily together or sparse? Is there an even balance of leaves? This is relevant too as sometimes can give a general overview of the seekers life.                                                                                                                                                                                            
You may look for Zodiac, Tarot or Runic symbols, letters, signs, dots, circles, shapes, animals, objects, numbers or pictures. There are many great books and internet articles on the subject – explore them all. Listen to your hunches or feelings you get while interpreting. This can change the meaning. A circle can represent the end/new beginning of a cycle or a strong support network around.

Look for shapes of countries. Is it relevant to the seekers blood lines? Planes are often common. Is it in the past, present of future? Please interpret the symbols with any “feelings” the reader gets.  

The internet is full of descriptors for shapes and symbols as there are many good books. Read what you can but it is important to trust what fits with YOU. There are no definite rules when it comes to reading. Work out the routine that feels comfortable with you. 

I believe if you do your readings with love and light and good intentions Spirit always has a helping hand. 

What are you waiting for? Go and buy loose leaf tea! Dust off your Grandmothers fine bone china tea set, make some scones and have your friends over for an afternoon and most importantly relax and enjoy!

Courtesy of Jade Kyles at Talanta Body and Soul 2008 - 2016   www.jadekyles.com

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