To begin the actual reading, take a few moments to look at the client's hands and how she holds them. It's always a good idea to do this in order to make some initial assessments. Look at the size, shape, and condition of the hands. How does she hold them — close to her body (suggesting shyness or introversion) or eagerly open in front of you (suggesting that this is an open, secure person who is unafraid of learning more about herself). This informal preliminary examination can really enhance the reading of the lines later on.

A good time to look at the client's hands is when you ask her to write her name, date of birth, and what it is that she would like to learn on a piece of paper before the reading begins. This will keep the client occupied — and not self-conscious — as she might otherwise be if she knew you were staring at her hands.

An Overview of the Lines

Once you've conducted your initial visual assessment of the hands, it's time to do the overview reading of the lines. Start with the three major lines, in whatever order most appeals to you. Most readers begin with the head and life lines, since they begin in the childhood area of the hand's time line. When looking at these lines, you can determine what kind of childhood the client had (for example, you can check to see whether she has lots of chains, indicating a tough childhood; or simple, straightforward lines, which represent a smooth and happy childhood). Then, you can move on to the heart line.

What you're looking for in these three major lines, at least for a quick overview type of reading, is how deep the lines are, whether there are any breaks or special markings, and the length or timing of specific life events (see Chapter 11 for a review of timing). For instance, you might see that the life line breaks off and then another part of the line continues on to the wrist bracelets or rascettes. This means that the client may make a major change in her life at a later stage — for instance, she might decide to sell everything and cruise around the world on a sailboat. Or maybe it's a more simple and practical change, such as moving to a warmer climate after retirement. The other lines, and your own psychic impressions, will help you figure out exactly what kind of shift may be in the client's future.

Sum up the three major lines and what they show at the close of your overview reading. Always keep things on a positive note, and end with a blessing for the client, even if it's as simple as “Go in peace.”

The quick overview reading can be fun, but reading only the three main lines in fifteen minutes doesn't offer the most complete reading. Be sure to remind your subject that there are many other lines that provide more detail. Of course, there should be an extra charge for a longer, more detailed palm reading.