Celtic Cross Relationship Spread

 (Deck: The Wild Unknown Tarot)

One of the greatest things about working with Tarot & Oracle decks is the fact that with the right intentions we can look into almost ANYTHING. I am someone who believes there isn't really any 'rules' in what you can and can't do, other than being of integrity and for the highest good.

An important factor to developing a connection with a deck and becoming an experienced reader is being able tor read your own cards. You know it's true, you pick cards for yourself all of the time and you might not always like what you see - but you know their insight is the truth. I know when I lead seminars on readings - most people admit they pick a card then if they don't like it they reshuffle. Pay their wisdom respect and take heed on what comes out first.

I have developed my own style and confidence in reading for others but most days I also pick a card for myself... This gives me insight for the day ahead OR if I do it at bedtime it will allow me to reflect on the blessings of the day.

The Celtic Cross Spread is one of the most known tarot spreads used today. It gives an overview of every area of someone's life which is wonderful. I changed the Celtic Cross spread for my own practice and I use it with clients when they're wanting to look into their relationship. Whether it be a new relationship in their life or one that's been around for years - this spread will allow you to see the strengths, emotions and passions before showing the future or presenting guidance for it.

Here's the way I've made the Cross spread work for me:

Elements of the Cross

As someone who's interested in the elements and how they are representative of our states of being, I have made the cross into a compass format. The card at the top (3) representing the element of Earth - showing our foundations and strengths.  Card to the right (4) represents Air - the element of intellect, thoughts and logic. The card at the bottom (5) is the element of Fire - representing our passions and in this case the passion within the relationship. The card to the left (6) is the element of Water - showing the emotions within the relationship.

Future months

The cards on the left hand side represent either future guidance or future predictions depending on your outlook. I do believe the tarot has the ability to forecast our path ahead based on our current state of being and decisions but it's also good to look at the guidance it offers in order for us to move on.

Sample reading

In the first image The Wild Unknown Tarot shows the spread in working order. Here's a basic interpretation to what it is guiding the person who wanted to check into their relationship:

1. The Father of Pentacles - Representing the person who's being read

The most steady of all the court cards, the father of pentacles shows the person who is seeking guidance on their relationship is someone who likes to take their time through life. They don't want any hassle of drama in their life, they'd rather just plod along at a natural pace - enjoying their life and routine. This person is strongly rooted to the ground, they are very loyal.

2. The World - Representing their partner

Their partner too is also quite a content person. There's a great chance that this person has been able to create a lot of success for themselves in their personal life, whether that be career or in another part of their life it's not clear. They're someone who gives all of themselves. A positive, upbeat soul they are filled with potential and the ability to manifest their dreams into reality.

3. IX of Swords - Representing their foundations

The foundation of this relationship right now looks slightly unsteady. It seems that with the father of pentacles and the world representing them both there's great potential for things to get better, but right now their priorities may not be together or in the same space. This card represents making some sacrifices or being able to let go of something of the past in order for them to move forward. In order for their foundation to improve they need to come together and make some sacrifices in other commitments in order to come together.

4. Mother of Wands - Representing their thoughts

This is exciting because these two people really do want to be together. The mother (queen) of wands represents attractiveness and is one of the most strong, vibrant and exciting court cards. These people need to remember the attraction they have for each other and get back to basics. Looking at the 9 of swords in their foundations - they just need to remember why they are together, simply because there's a common attraction and like mindedness there.

5. II of Swords - Representing their passions

For me the two of swords represents a form of peace. It is two minds coming together. By working together their passions are reignited. There is undoubtedly a connection here, they are equal and their truly is a lot of passion in this relationship. For some time their could have been a staleness to their intimacy and passion but by removing the blindfold of complacency there's ignition here to really bond and reconnect.

6. III of Pentacles - Representing their emotions

TEAMWORK. These two are on the same wavelength emotionally too - their emotions are definitely for each other and being able to work together there's a real emotional connection that grows. This card shows that with their commitments to daily life it may not be easy but the work on this relationship is definitely worthwhile.

7. III of Swords - Representing the next 3 months

This card for many people is emotional, scary or even negative because it is said to represent 'heartbreak', however that isn't always the case. There's a feeling that there's something else emotionally draining going on in their life - by this point I've got the feeling it could be the partners work commitments, this could be the part of their life that's getting in the way - but it doesn't have to. It may be a challenging few months as they work through things.

8. VI of Cups - Representing the 3-6months on

The 6 of cups brings joy and happiness to relationships. By this point there's a real sense of balance. The tree in this card with its roots going down into the the earth shows there's a real firm foundation in order for things to grow. Any 6 in the tarot represents balance and as this the cups - there's balance in relationships. There really is contentment here.

9. II of Pentacles - Representing 6-9months on

The card of change. There's new energy all around. There's this real feeling that things have moved in a new direction and that there's this real equal love, connection and bond in this relationship. The butterfly here in this card shows that there's a true transformation taken place. The life they want is here.

10. Ace of Swords - Representing 9-12 months on

This card cuts through the crap, for me it represents a clear path ahead. There is true power, will and direction brought forth and there's a feeling that their plans for the future are going to move swiftly forward. There's power, strength, clairty and truth on the path ahead - all their love, dedication and passion for each other is worthwhile.

 

http://www.thewildunknown.com/

The Wild Unknown Tarot is the deck featured in the picture above. It is a fabulously produced deck. It just arrived and I have completely fallen in love with it. The card quality is very good, thick card that won't wear away too easy. The artwork is what gives this deck it's magic. The simple elegance of the deck speaks to your soul, every time you look at the cards you see something different. 10/10

The Devil Card in the Tarot

I'm not going to lie - when I first started to read the tarot I was always a little cautious of the devil card, probably because of watching 'The Exorcist' at when I was 13 that terrified me beyond belief of 'the devil' never mind picking a card that represented that archetype. As the years have went on, the fear absolutely faded but the card hasn't always had the best reputation, especially with people who have come from a Christian background.


I think it's important to say I don't believe in a 'devil' as such, I do believe negative energy can exist. I do feel that we all have a shadow, a dark-side - an ego. We all have a side of us that can be a little bit thoughtless, cunning or dare I say downright nasty. I don't even dislike the ego - I'm glad I have one, it keeps me in check and If I didn't have it, I wouldn't have learned half of the lessons I've learned at this point. (Thank you ego!) So I believe at this point I'll say - I'm thankful there's a devil card in the tarot too. (Couldn't get more controversial for an Angel expert, right?)


Recently while reading 'Understanding Aleister Crowley's Thoth Tarot' by Lon Milo DuQuette (my new writing hero) I was intrigued by his thoughts on this particular card, he says he feels it's the most misunderstood card in the deck and I would have to agree. Here's a quote to think about from page 137.

"But if the Devil is supposed to be the card that represents evil, which card should we pick to represent good? All the other trumps have the potential of representing the qualities of both good and evil. Why do we need one card just for evil? Can't the Fool be thoughtless enough; the Magus larcenous enough, the High Priestess seductive enough, the Empress wicked enough..." He goes on to make a point to every trump in the deck...

What's your thoughts and experience? Can you see the Devil card as a positive sign? Have you had it come up when visiting a Tarot reader? Are you a Tarot reader? I'd love to know.

Personally I've always read this card as a positive card when my client is happily married as for me it symbolizes a bond that can never be broken. The card in this particular deck as you'll probably know is so phallic (you just need to look at it) so I've always seen the Devil card as a symbol of life force, a passionate lover, the libido, energy - you get the point


Other ways I see this card:

Being held back by your own fears and ego
Feeling chained or stuck in a situation (could be anything from relationships/work/debt)
Being overly materialistic
Sexuality, Sexual attention
The sign of Capricorn

I really seen how this card can have two sides while allowing a client to pick cards recently. She told me about a guy who she really fell in love for quickly but she had been let down off of him twice after 2 long haul flights to visit him. I said "Pick a card from my deck to represent him and we'll see what it says" the card she picked was The Devil reversed;

I personally seen this as someone who can't offer the unbreakable bond of love (at that particular time), that he could be like that Devil on her shoulder that she can't get out of her mind, someone that lured her in with his libido and lust but again, smirking back at her when he can't offer her the commitment she deserves at this time. I pointed out that he isn't a bad guy at all but he really doesn't want to commit himself at this time. She agreed to all of the above.

Would I have changed my mind if it was upright - probably! But the Universe has spoken and I ALWAYS read what the signs say.

Open your mind to the Tarot, it's rich in symbolism and if it scares you - life probably does too, it's time to break those fears friends. It's a wonderful tool.

In this blog I'm giving away a Strength, Heart & Challenge reading. Using the Tarot I will help you discover what your strength is at this time, what your heart is allowing in and the challenge you need to overcome to achieve any goals. Just type a comment why you feel it can help you and you'll be notified by September 21st 2013 (but remember the interaction MUST be about the blog too) x

ARE YOU SPIRITUAL PROFESSIONAL?

 Over the recent months I’ve had an influx of clients who are either spiritual professionals themselves or working towards becoming one. I am all for service and helping other people reach their full capacity as a professional so I thought it would be useful to share some of the ‘things’ I’ve learned along my journey. I have based this blog on my experience as a spiritual card reader but please apply it to your subject or expertise of choice.

When I was first bought Angel cards and got my hands on a tarot deck I never thought once that becoming a professional with these tools was even possible never mind what my life would become. There’s no doubt I was fascinated with the idea of giving readings, being able to foretell someone’s future and make connections with their Guardian Angel but it wasn’t what I wanted to do for an income.

LIFE LEAD THE WAY

As mentioned I didn’t want to do this for a living – but life lead the way. I was just interested in creating a spiritual connection. At the tender age of 16 my accuracy levels were tightening up and many people became aware of my name. Random people would call my home or see me at my local spiritualist church asking if I was available for private sessions. At first I wasn’t – I would practice on them sure but I never thought of charging money. In fact I remember saying “why would I charge someone for this, it’s a love I’m sharing with them!”

I really believe that when you SURRENDER into something, life will begin to lead the way. When I talk about life, I mean God, the Universe, Magick, Miracles – whatever you want to call it – this energy will guide you. So instead of saying “no” I just started saying “yes” and very quickly things took off. When I started doing readings I took a very small donation to pay for my cab home and to support me buying any spiritual tools or books that could help me along the way.  I done this for a good while, practicing my technique, delivery and giving very intuitively to people what I felt about there life. Most of the time, I was right, but every few – It wasn’t as clear as I’d hoped. Needless to say I was learning.

I just started to serve and before we knew it, the phone was ringing off of the hook.

NOT FOR THE FAINT HEARTED

I have to say working in the spiritual “world” is not for the faint hearted. It isn’t always fluffy, with rainbows and crystals everywhere. This is peoples spiritual growth, their life and even more so their challenges and pain and YOU have to be able to deal with them.

There’s no secret here – I had no fricken idea what I was signing up for or the emotional rollercoaster that was coming with it.

WHAT MAKES YOU QUALIFIED?

There are a lot of one-day courses out there – A LOT! And yes you can learn a wealth of knowledge on them but there’s no way they are setting you up to be a professional. In all of my years I have always believed that a certificate means absolutely nothing – it’s the reputation itself that tells the story.

Right now I can Google ‘Tarot Course’ or ‘Angel Course’ and find LOADS of options for as cheap as 100 bucks to become a ‘certified reader’ or ‘practitioner’ – but does that really qualify me to become a spiritual advisor, teacher or guide?

I delved into the deep end when I was just 16 but I did have a good years practice of reading cards for others under my belt. In fact everyone from teachers in school, my friends parents, family friends, my mothers colleagues all were offered readings and most of them accepted. I learned my craft so hard that it took the space of my schooling and studies (oops).

I really believe the real thing that will make you qualified to practice – is of course your knowledge and confidence in your subject. IF you have dedicated your time to learning everything you can about your subject, reading books on it, going to others for a similar service or practicing on yourself then you are going to be 100% more prepared than the person who got their certificate last weekend and doing readings on a stall this weekend.

Please don’t think I’m discrediting courses that help you become a certified reader or healer – it’s just I think doing them, then gaining a good year of experience (AT LEAST) will be more valuable than anything.

KNOW YOUR SUBJECT

Having a genuine passion for your subject will be seen, heard and felt. Your client and potential client will ask you a number of questions on the spot and you MUST be able to answer them.

For example you are a Reiki practitioner doing a session on someone and it appears to you that your client’s heart chakra is unbalanced. You tell them this and they will instantly hear ‘unbalanced’ and could begin to panic. You are going to have to reassure them that it’s ok and really what an imbalance here means and how you are going to balance it. There’s no point using spiritual jargon if you don’t have a clue what it means.

If you honestly don’t know the answer to their question – that’s fine but tell them the truth. If possible ask someone who knows more or is more experienced and get back to them. They will respect your honesty.

KNOW YOUR PRICES & TIME SCALE

When it comes to developing a practice or client base it’s great to know exactly how long your service takes, how much you are going to charge and how you are going to bring your session to an end.

When I first started to do readings – they lasted around 25-30mins. This was enough time for me to go through how this person was feeling, where they were going and what their cards meant. As time and experience has progressed my sessions now last 1 hour.

At the start of my session I explain what’s going to happen in the reading. I tell the client that I’ll give them everything I can and nearer the end of the reading there will be an opportunity for them to ask some questions, before wrapping up the session with a look over the next 6 months. This is a great way to bring the session to an end. I’ll often say something like “Do you have any questions now we’re reaching the end of the session?” and most of the time they do! I usually ask this 45mins after the session began just to ensure I didn’t miss anything important that I don’t have enough time to speak about. Once you’ve answered the questions, your client knows you’re wrapping things up.

When I started doing readings for money I felt really weird about it. I didn’t know if what I was doing deserved money but at the same time the demands for the services I was good at were in demand. If someone came for a reading and they didn’t come out with my set fee at the end of the session – I wasn’t asking for it. What good is that?

I had to think about this more. I began to realise that I was offering a service and people wanted that service. Like everyone else (and especially now) I have bills to pay and if people are happy to book for my services at the price described then why shouldn’t I take the money.

I really learned to overcome my fear about asking for the payment after reading a book that has become like TREASURE to me. It’s called: ‘Professional Tarot: The business of reading, consulting and teaching’ by Christine Jette. In this book Christine had a section called ‘Are you funny about money?’ and my eyes nearly popped out of my head when I seen it. I was. I just really constructed away around this and have since overcome that fear.

On home visits – on arrival I’d say to the host “If your group can make an order of who’s going first, second, third and fourth that would be great. If you can gather all of the payment I’ll be happy to collect that at the end before my departure.” This gave the host the opportunity to get everyone’s money gathered and when I was ready to leave I would take it and go.

At first I used to count the money but a colleague tarot reader said to me once: “You just take and you trust it’s all there!” I absolutely got her point but after doing this – with no surprise I have been short changed in the past. So what I began to do would say something like “£25 each makes that £100, right?” and most of the time they’d say “Yes that’s right but just check it to make sure!” and that would take away any sense of awkwardness.

Now in my business my fees are a lot larger than they used to but the principle is the same. One thing I do at the end of a session is say “have you paid a deposit?” and it instantly reminds my client I’m looking for a payment. Loads of people go “OH MY GOD! I forgot I need to pay!” I think they just get too excited, especially if they got a really accurate service which of course is my aim.

If you have any qualms about money, get rid of them, especially if you’re in business or about to begin!

HAVE INTEGRITY

As my mum would say “Honesty is the best policy” and I have to agree. Living a spiritual life and being of service means we have to ensure our integrity is in check. One of the most important things for me as a spiritual businessman is being honest with my clients. That means if I can’t help them – I’m going to tell them. If I can’t get what they’re looking for – I’ll tell them and even more importantly I’ll give them a refund.

15minutes into every session I always say to my client “Do you feel like most of the information has been accurate?” if they say yes, I know it’s safe to continue.

There has been many times I’ve just refunded people because I don’t feel I’m getting enough or they don’t feel I’m getting what they’re looking for. Many times I’ve said things that people don’t want to hear but they know it’s the truth – in these situations if it feels right, I will continue with their permission. It’s situations like this I’ve always trusted my intuition and used my discretion to determine what’s next.

DON’T BE THE UNHEALED HEALER

One important thing about working in the spiritual field is not to be the unhealed healer! There’s a lot of them out there. I honestly feel that if we tell someone to do something but we’re not practicing that ourselves we’re being phoney to ourselves and of course our spiritual growth.

This is one thing that I’m always aware of. I’m not going to tell someone an affirmation or to use them If I don’t use them myself. Why should I tell someone to meditate daily to gain deeper awareness if I’m not doing it myself? These are all important factors to be aware of.

Reiki is one of my other loves. It’s a fabulous healing system and I’ve recently just received my Reiki master teacher level after 9 years of practice with it. One thing about Reiki though is anyone can learn and teach it but there’s only so many people that are really staying true to the practice. For example: Reiki’s level 1 is all about self-healing but most people want to learn Reiki 2 so they can be a practitioner, completely missing the point of self-healing and becoming the unhealed healer!! What’s the point???

I have without a doubt worked myself into burnout a few times and I have to tell you that it’s NOT FUN! Both your spiritual energy and physical energy suffer and it really takes sometime to regain your full strength.

PRESERVE YOUR ENERGY

Preserving yourself is the best way forward. I’m not the most organised person but my mother is and she now works on my behalf organising my diary, emails and clients. It means I can turn up and do what I’m good at!

I work 5 days a week (sometimes less) and ensure I have 2 days off in a row. This gives me time to rest. I’ve realised that 4 clients per day is enough for me but will sometimes do 5 – no more than this. Even though 4 hours work might not seem bad for many, there’s a lot that goes on and it can be draining.

Having a personal practice or technique to align yourself is a great idea. My morning includes some yoga and affirmations with short meditation so that I can get in the right frame of mind.

Sleep is essential. I have found I always have better sessions when I’m fully recharged. I make a point of turning off my TV and LAPTOP 1 hour before bed and reading before sleep. It really helps me relax and allows my mind to unwind. Do what’s right for you!!!

Don’t allow people to become VAMPIRES! Yes it bloody happens (excuse the pun) and the next section is dedicated to that. You have to be assertive. If people become attached to your work, you have to encourage them to rely on themselves.

When a session is completed, it is completed. I make the opportunities to ask questions during it. If anything else comes up, they can email me but their life is in their hands – it’s impossible to remember every session, especially if things get busy.

Remember to have a personal life!!! Work to live, don’t live to work!

TIPS FOR PRIVACY

·      Have a separate phone number for your work

I recently had to change my personal phone number as some people managed to get a hold of it and took the liberty of texting me about psychic matters. I love being of service but I also have my own life that I must enjoy!

·      Don’t allow clients to add your personal Facebook!

Again I had to change my Facebook as people would often mail me regarding my work or a session they had.

·      Say no when out in public!

I’m all for having a chat for people when they come up to me in the supermarket or in a bar. I’ll be happy to say hello but as soon as they ask me to do something of my services I just simply say “I’m sorry I’m on a night out or I’m not currently able to with these conditions – but if you contact my office we’ll be happy to schedule a session!”

Other great tips to remain strong, professional and fulfilled:

·      Remember you are of service

·      Love what you do

·      Learn from every experience

·      Read books on your subject

·      Ask for feedback from your sessions

·      Stay affordable but know your worth

·      Be happy and share your happiness

I absolutely LOVE what I do and I really love to help others. I have shared this honest account and experiences in the hope it will help others towards creating a really strong, stable and healing practice. I have nothing to hide and hope that this will help others.

As a giveaway of this post I’ll be giving one blog reader a Tarot Life Path reading to help them on their spiritual quest and development. All you have to do to gain the chance of winning is leave a comment below – saying how you think it would help you. The winner will be notified by 31^st August 2013