How Chanting Can Help You Meditate

Do you find it hard to still your mind during meditation?

Do you tend to sit in your meditation class desperately trying to avoid thinking about what you'll have for dinner or those bills that keep piling up?

Let me assure you, you're not alone.

I was just like you, and sometimes those unwanted thoughts still trip me up, but I've come across a method that has helped me immensely, and perhaps you will find it useful, too.

First of all, don't underestimate the power of meditation. It's good for your general wellbeing. It helps you relax, build inner strength and promotes a healthy balance of mind-body-spirit.

But our busy monkey mind stops us from meditating effectively.

It's impossible for us to stop thinking. Even while we sleep, our minds produce thoughts in the form of dreams.

Buddhism suggests that instead of struggling to silence our thoughts, we should learn to outwit our restless monkey mind.

How are we going to do that?

By giving it something else to do - something meaningful, too! - which helps us create some powerful magic within us at the same time.

A couple of years ago, I discovered chanting whilst on a Buddhist retreat.

It may sound eccentrically New Age to you, but believe me, after initially feeling weird, I felt its benefit almost straight away.

When you repeatedly chant the same words in the ancient and magical language of Sanskrit, it becomes a mantra, which can gradually shift negative patterns in your life, depending on the meanings of the words.

So, depending on what you want to manifest in your life, you choose the mantra that can help you make it happen.

What I love about chanting is that you don't need to sit still or in a certain position; at the retreat, we walked in a circle on a meadow and around a fireplace (nobody else saw us 😄)

For example, you can chant whilst having a relaxing bath, go for a walk, or you can of course choose the traditional meditation position.

How many times should you chant the mantra?

The magical number is 108. The best way to count correctly during chanting is by using Mala prayer beads. One bead for a complete mantra, until the circle is completed.

My Mala prayer beads - turquoise beads divided by white beads into 4 x 27 sections

If 108 times sounds too much for you at first, you can also shorten your chant down to 27 or 54 times.

These numbers are important and in Buddhist and Sanskrit teachings they have magical powers.

The Number 108 divided by 4 equals 27. A Mala bead necklace is divided into four sections of 27 beads.

Do you need to have a good singing voice to chant?

No. You can simply recite the words repeatedly at a steady and regular pace.

Now that you know the basics, here are four chants I use:

1. Ham Sa

Pronounced: Hahhm Sahh

Meaning: I am That

This very basic mantra helps you ground yourself and focus on your breathing: Ham (inhale) Sa (exhale).

It is said to be a mantra for the heart; it helps you relax and centre. After chanting a round of Ham Sa, you may feel calm yet more energised.

2. Om Namah Shivaya

I discovered this chant in Elizabeth Gilbert's book Eat, Pray, Love. I love the sound when I chant it; its vibration resonates with me deeply.

Pronounced: Aum nah-mah shi-vay

Meaning: I bow to Shiva.

The Hindu God Shiva symbolises the inner self, so by chanting this mantra, you honour the divinity within yourself, and it is said to promote self-worth and confidence.

A spiritual healing mantra, it is made up of five syllables, which represent the five elements earth, air, fire, water and ether.

3. Om Kleem Shreem Brzee 

This is an ancient Sanskrit mantra for bringing love and abundance into your life.

It is often recommended for attracting money or new romantic love, but abundance doesn't always relate to financial wealth, and love can also relate to friendships, connectedness and a loving support network.

Pronounced: check out this YouTube clip, and if you like, sing along to get into the groove 😉

Meaning:

Om - universal sound of creation Kleem - sound for spiritual development, love and devotion Shreem - sound for the divine feminine associated with abundance and prosperity Brzee - sound for removing scarcity from consciousness

Put these four sounds together, and you create an open mind and receptiveness to let love and abundance into your life by removing inner blocks and obstacles surrounding you.

You can shorten this mantra two-ways to make it more specific:

• Om Shreem Brzee - to attract abundance and prosperity
• Om Kleem Brzee - to attract friendships and relationships

4. Ra Ma Da Sa Sa Say So Hung

A universal healing mantra, which consists of the sounds of the four universal energies

Ra - sun Ma - moon Da - earth Sa ( repeated) - infinity

together with Say So Hung, meaning  I am Thou.

This mantra is said to build bodily resistance to disease and can have a healing effect on the body. Its sound stimulates flow and circulation of prana (life force) through the body.

Chant it steadily, inhaling Ra Ma Da Sa and exhaling Sa Say So Hung. Linger a little on the sound 'ng' in Hung as it is said to stimulate divine glands.

Notice this chant has eight syllables - the number of rebirth.

If you are a novice to chanting, then you may find the above mantras easy to pronounce and remember.

With regular practice you will notice their calming effect and power to help you focus your mind on manifesting your desires.

For more information, you can search online for chanting meditation for beginners, or google the above mantras.

There is a wealth of information freely available including viewpoints on how to chant "correctly".

Remember to keep it simple at first before you delve deeper. One step at a time.

Let me know how you get on, and if chanting is already part of your spiritual practice, please share your tips and favourite mantras in the comment box below.

I'd love to hear from you 💚

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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22 Summer Journal Prompts That Make Shift Happen

It's been a glorious summer so far here in the UK, and when it’s too hot to move, take the opportunity to relax out in nature with your journal and tarot deck for some chilled-out mindful moments.

It’s summer time and the living is easy, the perfect time to tame the mental clutter to clarify, simplify and create some inner peace.

One prompt a day, and you are on the way to make some powerful mindshifts happen without trying too hard.

Daily journaling can also reduce stress as insightful self-enquiry helps to stay focused, productive and on track of your goals and aspirations.

Journaling is also a great way to connect with the Tarot, so here are my favourite summer journaling prompts to explore with your favourite deck:

1. Who are you in this moment? Use court cards only to draw a card, and then draw up to two cards from the rest of your deck.
2. How can you change your response to something that is stressing you?
3. What can you do to help you accept something in your life that cannot be changed?
4. What are you inviting into your life with your actions?
5. What do you need to say ‘yes’ to more often?
6. What do you need to say ‘no’ to more often?
7. If you had to give this present moment a title, what would it be called?
8. Who or what are you taking for granted and is worth to be appreciated more?
9. What are you trying to control too much, and how can you start loosening your grip?
10. Where can you give yourself some extra space?
11. What is your superpower today?
12. What did you lose in the past that you are grateful for today?
13. Draw a card to recall a funny experience you had.
14. What is your intuition trying to tell you today?
15. How can you avoid distractions today?
16. How can you embody love today?
17. Look back where you were a year ago today. How far have you come?
18. What do you need to give yourself credit for?
19. A new chapter in your life is about to open. What will it be called?
20. What is the title of the current chapter about to be closed?
21. Love is…
22. Life is…

You can repeat these prompts and also add your own if you like.

Explore these questions in style with my latest summer-themed creative journaling printable kit, which includes my newest ebook Journal Yourself Happy.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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5 Insightful Ways To Use Tarot For Self-Development

Tarot offers so much more than simple fortune-telling. If you're seeking an empowering companion on your life journey, choose Tarot for self-development, healing, and personal growth.

Here are five ways you can use the Tarot to increase awareness, perception, knowledge and understanding – qualities and skills you need to make the most of all aspects of life:

1. Setting Goals and turning them into Reality

Many people float through life without any clear direction where they want to be.

And if they do know where they want to be, they often don’t have a clear plan about how to get there.

This powerful monthly manifestation spread can help you focus on turning your dreams into reality:

2. Increase Confidence and Self-Esteem

The first step you need to take to raise your confidence and self-esteem is getting to know yourself better and start believing in yourself.

Many people are doubtful and insecure about their talents and abilities, their worth in terms of personality and looks.

Chances are high that you are much better and stronger than you think.

Learn more about your strengths and weaknesses by checking out your personality and persona cards.

You can also use tarot spreads to explore and give your confidence a boost, such as the Magick Monday Confidence:

3. Problem-Solving

Virtually every day we ask ourselves how to resolve specific problems, so why not ask the Tarot for some guidance:

• How to resolve a conflict in a relationship or at work?

• How to overcome an obstacle?

• Why can I not reach my goal and what can I do about it?

• What can I do to bring new love into my life?

Unblock yourself with the Get Unstuck Spread:

4. Healing from Heartache

“Breaking up is never easy, I know, but I have to go. Knowing me, knowing you it’s the best I can do.”  – Abba

Recovering from a breakup isn’t easy, and nobody will blame you for temporarily self-medicating with bottles of wine and tubs of ice-cream.

But there are also healthier and more therapeutic options. Combine Tarot with journaling to make sense of the whole thing, so you can get closure and move on with your life.

There are so many spreads about overcoming heartache. 

You may be asking yourself if he’s coming back or will you ever find new love again, but exploring what will grow from your loss can help you shift your focus to new opportunities:

Other questions you can ask:

• What can I do today that makes me feel better?

• What can I do today that will help me heal?

• What will make me happy today?

• What can I do today that will help me let go and start afresh?

5. Explore your Options

We have to make decisions every day, most of which are made quickly and without fuss, others are major choices that need a little bit of thought and consideration before you decide what to do.

Questions you might be asking yourself are:

• Which job / career will offer me better prospects?

• Is s/he the right one? My soul mate?

• Shall I go ahead with the business launch or should I delay as not everything is in place yet?

• Shall I spend my savings on the holiday or the training course? I have to make a choice as I can’t afford both.

Again, there are numerous spreads and explorations that can help you make decisions and work out what is best for you.

As you can see, you can have oodles of fun with the Tarot and start sorting out your pressing life issues along the way.

If you want to learn more about how to use the Tarot for self-development, then please check out my Discovery Tarot Course.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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Discover Your Tarot Love Match

Smith Waite Centennial Edition Deck

The Tarot Love Match Reading is a fun and insightful way of exploring the dynamics of your relationship (or a potential relationship you are thinking of pursuing).

As the twelve zodiac signs are assigned to twelve cards in the Major Arcana, you can pick the two cards that relate to you and your (potential) partner and explore your compatibility.

Here are the Tarot cards with their associated zodiac signs and elemental attribution:

Aries (Fire) - Emperor

Taurus (Earth) - Hierophant

Gemini (Air) - Lovers

Cancer (Water) - Chariot

Leo (Fire) - Strength

Virgo (Earth) - Hermit

Libra (Air) - Justice

Scorpio (Water) - Death

Sagittarius (Fire) - Temperance

Capricorn (Earth) - Devil

Aquarius (Air) - Star

Pisces (Water) - Moon

Before you start interpreting the cards, note the ruling element of each zodiac as the combination of the elements offer you a first impression of the potential harmony of your relationship:

Friendly: Fire/Air, Earth/Water

Neutral: Fire/Earth, Water/Air

Unfriendly: Fire/Water, Earth/Air

We also tend to have more in common with other signs in our own element group, e.g. Earth/Earth, which would also be a friendly combination.

Please note that if the zodiac card combination of your current relationship is an "unfriendly" one, don't worry!

The Tarot Love Match Reading gives you an insight into how your personalities may interact, and there will always be individual exceptions, which can be explored further by taking into account a full birth chart and associated Tarot cards.

People who are already attracted and connected to each other may well have other planets in compatible signs.

On the other hand, an "unfriendly" match could indicate challenges arising in your relationship, which could result in having to put a lot of effort into making it work long-term.

But being aware of this possibility empowers you to being more mindful about your relationship and explore it on a deeper level.

Examples:

1. Taurus - Cancer

Friendly earth/water combination.

The Hierophant likes structure, routine and tradition; he is patient, practical and faithful.

The Chariot is dedicated, protective and emotionally resilient; both enjoy comfort, security, and even accumulating material possessions.

Together they have the potential for lasting love and to build wealth and success in a long-term relationship.

2. Leo - Virgo

Neutral fire/earth combination.

Strength loves being the centre of attention and perseveres with the object of its desire; passionate, energetic, enthusiastic and optimistic.

In contrast, the Hermit is down-to-earth, introvert and modest.

Whereas Strength enjoys Hermit's need to please in a relationship, Hermit's critical nature can be a turn-off.

Likewise, Hermit may be amused by theatrical Strength but put off by Strength's lack of empathy.

Both need to be more tolerant of each others quirks to make this relationship work.

3. Libra - Capricorn

Unfriendly air/earth combination.

Justice likes an ordered and serene environment; diplomatic, attentive listener, striving for balance in a relationship.

The Devil is ambitious, hard working and loves to be in control; he is often serious and reserved.

Justice can be irritated by the Devil's tendency to be overpowering and ruthless at times, and overall there doesn't seem to be a strong mutual attraction.

This relationship could well be a non-starter, or it may need a lot of hard work on both sides in order to succeed.

Tip:

When you look at the card pairs above, take a look at the position of the figures in the images and how they relate to each other.

What does their body language tell you about the dynamics of their relationship?

Now move the cards in each pair around, e.g. from Strength/Hermit to Hermit/Strength; what further insight do you gain from this swap?

If you enjoy this exercise, you can go deeper by adding the matching court cards, which have also been attributed to the zodiac signs:

Aries – Queen of Wands
Taurus – King of Pentacles
Gemini – Knight of Swords
Cancer – Queen of Cups
Leo – King of Wands
Virgo – Knight of Pentacles
Libra – Queen of Swords
Scorpio – King of Cups
Sagittarius – Knight of Wands
Capricorn – Queen of Pentacles
Aquarius – King of Swords
Pisces – Knight of Cups

So, using the examples above, we would be looking at the following card combinations:

1. Hierophant/King of Pentacles - Chariot/Queen of Cups
2. Strength/King of Wands - Hermit/Knight of Pentacles
3. Justice/Queen of Swords - Devil/Queen of Pentacles

What additional information do the court cards offer?

I hope you enjoy doing the tarot love match reading for yourself or even for your friends.

If you love journaling, you can also find this article in my Cosmic Faery's Journal workbook together with a funky journaling sheet and lots of other tarot spreads and journaling ideas.

And if you want to learn more about how to apply astrology in your tarot readings, please check out my Starlight Tarot Astrology course.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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Tarot Journey: Return To The Light

After a dark and gloomy January here in the UK, February has finally arrived.

I can sense a sudden exhilarating shift in my mood as if a button has been pressed in my brain.

The days are getting longer, the snowdrops are blooming, the crocuses are on their way, I’m looking out for buds on shrubs and trees…. on our tarot journey, it’s the return from darkness into the light. Yay😄

The return to the light is symbolised by The Sun in the Major Arcana. Before we embrace this positive energy of joy and enlightenment, we can put closure on the darkness with this little spread:

Now that we have put the darkness to rest (at least for a while), we can focus on the lighter side of life – creation, success, clarity, simple abundance, vitality.

In the Tarot, when the Fool reaches the Sun, he has reached his goal. He is exactly where he wants to be.

In the RWS deck, his achievement is symbolised by the red feather on his head on both cards and the sun in the sky, which has turned from white (beginning) to golden (completion):

In the Cosmic Faery Tarot, I have illustrated the Fool’s milestone as a seedling growing into a beautiful sunflower:

Working with the Sun, ask the following questions:

• What has come to fruition?

• What commitments have I made?

• What do I now understand?

• What can I celebrate today?

• What is making me happy right now?

The Sun is very much about living in the moment, the here and now.

Just for a change, there is no need to make plans or think about the future.

What is most important is to savour the present and just be.

The Sun’s energy is linked to various cards in the tarot, most notably the Ten of Swords (Sun in Gemini), which depicts quite profoundly the emergence from darkness into the light.

If you are curious about your own tarot journey and want to learn more, check out my courses and ebooks, and follow me on Ko-fi, where you can also grab some fab freebies.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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The Raw and Scary Meaning of Death in the Tarot

Prisma Visions Tarot

It's Scorpio season, a time of letting go, endings and transformation.

Scorpio is linked to Death in the Tarot, so it's the perfect time to talk about the raw and scary aspects of this card nobody wants to raise when it pops up in a reading.

There is no beating around the bush: Death isn't the happiest card in the Tarot.

It ain't pretty (unless you are a tree in autumn shedding your leaves), it ain't fun.

Even the cheerful motto Out with the old, in with the new often covers up melancholy moments of letting something go that holds bittersweet memories.

Scorpio's sting hurts, even if it's just a tiny bit.

And while Death may well symbolise the transformation of the caterpillar into a beautiful butterfly, for us humans the process is more complex, at best uncomfortable and at worst very painful and crushing.

There is no point in denying the true meaning of Death, which in essence is about irreversible endings.

It's the finality of Death that can be so painful and hard to accept.

There is no point in denying the ugly side of Death, full stop. Popular tarot blogs and new age happy clappers want to make us believe that Death is a wonderful thing.

That it's about fabulous change and new beginnings, which sounds great but somehow sanitises its actual meaning.

It's time to acknowledge this card for what it really stands for:

An ending you - or your client - don't want and didn't ask for.

And yes, it can sometimes even mean physical death. It was my father's year card in his final year of life.

That doesn't mean you should tell your client that they or one of their loved ones is about to die. No, please don't.

Instead, when this card comes up in a reading, ask yourself (or your client) what this card means to you (them) at this moment in time.

Death is a taboo subject in our society and often brushed under the carpet. Anything to do with it including fear of death, grieving, and preparing for it when seriously ill.

Because we are living longer, we tend to take the time we have for granted. Death in a reading can remind us that we don't have all the time in the world.

Death reminds us not to delay turning our dreams into reality, because one day it will be too late.

Death in a reading can act as a reminder of our mortality. Together with Justice, it may be a good idea to make a will and get your affairs in order (including life insurance) to prepare for the inevitable.

To many, this sounds macabre, but what you would really be doing is taking care of your loved ones in case something happens to you.

It can suggest any of the five stages of grieving - denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance - you or your client may be experiencing. It's time to tackle those emotions.

Death says: "What are you wasting your time on? Life is too short."

Death is a process, and sometimes we don't realise we've been through it until we look back and realise that the last couple of years or so have been tough and transformed us into the person we are today.

And we are still alive - that's the good news! Let's make the most of it.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

PS: Learn more about how to use the cards for self-exploration and healing in my Discovery Tarot Course.

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Tarot Shadow Work: Descend into the Underworld

Cosmic Faery Tarot Deck

With the dark season approaching and the spirit of Halloween in the air, it's a good time to light some candles, burn some incense, play some atmospheric music and work with the shadow cards of the Major Arcana for some serious self-exploration:

• The Hanged Man
• Death
• The Devil
• The Tower
• The Moon

The late Hajo Banzhaf (Tarot and the Journey of the Hero) assigned these cards to the Arc of the Night of the Major Arcana, the descend into the underworld, which starts with the Hanged Man and ends with the Moon.

These are not the most welcome cards when they appear in readings, but when we face them and examine our dark side (including those past experiences we'd rather forget), they can help us turn our darkness into light.

The best way to do that is through self-enquiry. Here are some questions you can ask yourself for each card:

The Hanged Man - What do I keep avoiding? Where am I stuck in my life? In what situations did/do I find it hard making decisions? What sacrifices have I made in order to make progress? What do I refuse to give up?

Death - Endings in my life that were painful. Changes that were unsettling. New beginnings that resulted from these endings/changes. What do I need to let go of now (habits, things, people...)? How can I transform anguish, loss and grief into a new sense of purpose and understanding? What transformations have I experienced in my life?

Tarot spread: 1. Me now / 2. Me a year ago - What has changed?

The Devil - What is controlling me / what am I controlling? Where do I feel trapped? How can I break free? Where am I complacent? Where am I wasting too much energy that isn't worth it? What am I obsessed about? Where have I been despondent? A taboo in my life / family / society.

The Tower - What am I angry about? When was the last time I showed my anger? What incident or situation shook my world? How have I recovered? When did I feel that my life was falling apart, and how have I rebuilt it? What has gone out of control? What have I destroyed on purpose in order to start again differently?

The Moon - When did my imagination last run wild? What are my fears / insecurities and doubts? What am I confused about? A nightmare I can remember I once had. My lunar fantasies: visions and illusions (pull a card for each). What is obscured and needs to be revealed? Where and how am I deceiving myself?

✨Make a date with your shadow and descend into the underworld with these cards✨

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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3 Mistakes to Avoid as a Tarot Reader

When you begin and progress on your journey as a professional tarot reader, you may look for advice and inspiration from your peers, usually found on their websites and in online networking groups.

Although it is helpful and enjoyable to engage with your fellow readers, I have noticed over the years that there tends to be a herd mentality, which can have the unfortunate effect of falling victim to "trends"without applying your own unique flair.

I do understand that when you start as a professional, you are looking for all the help you can find to get yourself established, but at one point it is important to find your own way, apply your own ideas and think your own thoughts.

From that herd mentality and losing yourself into what everone else is doing, try to avoid the following three mistakes:

1. Being judgemental and presumptuous

Many tarot readers claim they are non-judgemental and objective, but are they really?

When readers announce in their blog posts that they refuse to read on repeat questions, or they "have to" rephrase some of their clients' questions, then in fact this sounds pretty much judgemental. They seem to judge their clients' situation based on these issues.

And when you read about their reasons why, then it seems that most of them are based on assumptions and speculations, such as the client obviously hasn't moved on, or why are they asking me such a self-restrictive fortune-telling question? I can teach them how to do better...

When one tarot reader complained about clients requesting several readings from various readers about the same issue, it sounded like that client almost committed a criminal offence.

Of course the reader refused to do the reading, and I will probably get shot by the tarot ethics police when I admit that I have no problem submitting my reading when asked and getting paid for it, too.

Why? I hear you ask. Well, because every client has the right to spend their money on what they want. They can invest it in a huge DVD collection, or they can ask several readers for advice on how to handle and deal with a situation.

Everyone is entitled to second opinions, which doesn't necessarily mean that they feed a habit or live in denial. And being in denial is nothing to feel ashamed or bad about. Denial is often part of the grieving process.

If I hadn't asked another doctor for a second opinion many years ago, I would have been dead today.

When you need help resolving an issue, you may ask several people for their advice. In the end, you evaluate and make up your own mind. What's wrong with that?

Not every client in this position is a tarot junkie.

The antidote to being judgmental and presumptuous is unconditional open-mindedness and acknowledgement that anything is possible. Avoid generalisation. Treat each client as an individual with their own unique issues.

2. Being a copy cat

When you are in awe of fellow tarot readers' fabulous websites and blogs, it can be tempting to emulate them and inadvertently ending up being a bit of a clone.

How many unboxing videos are there on YouTube now? Who has time to watch them all? Are you sure you want to spend / waste time adding to that pile?

How many thousands of websites are out there offering tarot readings? How is yours standing out to get noticed? It doesn't help to copy another website's colour scheme or stock photos.

It's even worse copying their products or services, such as courses and ebooks.

Last year I noticed that a big name in the tarot business had copied the concept of my Tarot Moon Journal, which I first published in 2012.

My creation was given a different title and a once-over in corporate colours, but I know mine is the original and best, like all original ideas usually are.

The antidote to being a copy cat is to find your own style, your true and authentic voice and create unique offerings with your personal touch.

3. Following the Tarot herd

• you don't need to have a huge tarot deck collection
• you don't need to join the latest social media platform, because other tarot readers do
• you don't need to condemn a fellow tarot reader solely based on accusations from another tarot reader. Tarot readers can be highly strung at times. Best to avoid this kind of drama - and judgement! Be fair and kind rather than part of a tarot mob
• only because one reader claims that they don't read reversals doesn't mean you shouldn't either. Whatever works best for you really counts.
• contrary to popular opinion, you can still use the Tarot for fortune-telling, if that's what you want to do
• you don't need to be constantly on social media. Switch off to think for yourself and generate your best ideas
• you don't need tarot certification
• you don't need to bombard the world with masses of tarot deck reviews, complicated spreads and tarotscopes. Instead, why not create a Best of... list linking to your favourites you found on other people's blogs? Better than rehashing what is already out there.
• you don't need to call yourself a healer only because it seems like the new buzz job title for tarot readers. I prefer healing assistant, which reflects my Hermit personality 😄
• not all third party readings are equal. Some of them are okay to do, others are not. Avoid putting them all into one bucket. Consider each one carefully and see how far you want to go with it.

The antidote to following the tarot herd is critical thinking, discernment and realising that less is more. Take a step back, observe and evaluate without worrying about your peers' acceptance or rejection. It's the age-old dilemma of fitting in versus standing out.

Deep down you are wise, clever and intelligent enough to avoid these three mistakes as a Tarot reader once you put your mind to it.

Yes, I have made some of the mistakes listed here, learned my lessons and began to focus on my own imagination, new interests and experiences outside the tarot world that have inspired me to create the crazy cosmic enlightening stuff on offer here on my website.

What about you?

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

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The Saturn Cards In The Tarot

After Jupiter, the next stop in the line of ancient planets is Saturn.

In astrology, this planet is associated with hardship, discipline and limitations, the latter being reflected in the famous rings composed of rocks and ice surrounding it.

Saturn is named after the Roman god of agriculture, who was also in charge of conformity, social order and creating civilisations.

Saturn is ruler of Capricorn, hence the presence of the Devil amongst the Saturn cards.

Saturn's prime attribution in the Major Arcana is to the World. In the Rider Waite deck, we see the wreath around the figure, which we can link to Saturn's rings.

Although the World is a card of completion, achievement and self-realisation, the Saturn energy also suggests boundaries and limitations.

Additional meanings of the World derived from Saturn: the end of the line; as good as it gets; the need for self-regulation; maintaining of what has been achieved.

Saturn reflects our innate desire for structure and order, and in the Devil its energy is reflected in a hard-working nature, which can easily descend into slaving along in dull routines, narrow-mindedness and lack of growth.

In astrology, Saturn is regarded as the greater malefic, which means it can indicate negative energy such as hardship and sadness.

Saturn in the tarot is linked to the following pip cards:

• Five of Wands (Saturn in Leo)
• Ten of Wands (Saturn in Sagittarius)
• Eight of Cups (Saturn in Pisces)
• Three of Swords (Saturn in Libra)
• Seven of Pentacles (Saturn in Taurus)

How does Saturn influence the card meanings? Here are some suggestions:

Five of Wands - quarrels and misunderstanding due to narrow-mindedness; everyone is just focused on their own agenda. No discipline; rules not adhered to; lack of progress; a dull routine interrupted, pushing boundaries

Ten of Wands - awareness of self-limitations; bogged down; carrying the World on your shoulders; discipline and self-reliance creates suffering; sense of duty

Eight of Cups - leaving something behind that offered no more growth; having outgrown a situation; leaving the comfort zone; looking for something more unconventional; walking away from responsibility

Three of Swords - sadness, melancholy, emotional endurance, cold-heartedness; a painful lesson learned; having lost something comfortable or secure; being restricted by grief; absorbed by loss, not seeing a way out; stuck in a gloomy world

Seven of Pentacles - new growth outside the comfort zone; sowing new seeds; perseverance; hard work paid off; hesitating about taking a risk; security is important; frustrated about limited success

These are just a few ideas how Saturn influences the meanings of these cards. You are welcome to share yours in the comment box below.

You can also try this exercise: 

Pick out all the Saturn cards from your deck. Which of the pip cards would you relate to which Major Arcana card?

Take into account visual clues as well as similar meanings. For example, I see the Ten of Wands linked to the Devil, and the Seven of Pentacles to the World.

But you may have different ideas. How do you see the Saturn cards connected with each other? 

Post your ideas in the comment box below.

⭐For this exercise I have created journaling sheets, which you can download from my Ko-fi page⭐

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

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Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling

Why You Should Answer the Same Question Again

Tarot of Quotes

Quite a while ago, I came across a discussion in an online tarot forum about clients asking the same question again and again, especially with regards to relationship issues such as breakups.

Many tarot readers were adamant that they refuse such repeat requests, as the client has apparently "not moved on yet".

I didn't want to get into an argument, so I refrained from admitting that I was totally fine with that.

The simple reason is that I don't assume anything, when I get a reading request.

Relationships can be full of drama, and I trust that my readings will reflect these issues and make the client aware.

Relationships can be on and off. People meet, get together, split up, get back together again... and this can carry on for a while.

Yes, you may not think this is healthy, but it is not down to us to pass judgement and then refuse to help someone, who needs guidance.

Energies around the querent change despite the same question being asked, and this will usually be picked up by the cards you draw.

You may be answering the same question differently every time, even if there are just a few adjustments.

Usually after the third time of asking the same question, I offer the client a quick phone consultation to establish what is going on in their life.

These conversations have always revealed the bigger picture of their situation and also how accurate my readings had been in the past relating to the issue.

Emotional turmoil can take some time to come to terms with. In that situation the querent may need reassurance, encouragement, a new insight or perspective.

The last thing I want to do is take the moral high ground and turn them away for asking the same question yet again. I see it as my job to support them with compassion and an open mind.

Is he/she coming back to me? 

Sometimes they do!

Life is not black and white.

We cannot expect love to follow a straight forward pattern or even make it so, because it is not always straight forward.

We cannot base our answers solely on our experiences or that of people we know. This is where we can get it badly wrong as professional readers, if we are not careful.

Only because my friend got back together with her husband after a two-year separation, that doesn't mean everyone else will, or nobody else will ever get back together with their ex.

If they made the right decision is a different matter.

What counts is how you answer the question. How much you empower your client.

For some it is hard to move on, for others there is still unfinished business. 

And then there are those, who are being played with, who are confused and try to make sense of an ongoing saga.

They need someone, who can see the bigger picture from far, far away. 

Someone, who patiently answers their repeat questions, knowing that at one point it will create a positive shift in the client's mind.

It is all down to your judgement without prejudice to make the right decision when faced with repeat questions.

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

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Medium - Simplify your Life

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The Meaning Of The High Priestess In The Tarot

The High Priestess in the Tarot is one of the most mysterious and fascinating archetypes.

She embodies the feminine energy that is inherent within us all - intuition, inner wisdom, silence, stillness, reflection, gut instinct, patience.

The High Priestess is your inner spiritual advisor, counsellor, guide and psychic muse. If you don't know what to do or what to say, you follow her instead.

She represents inner knowing that doesn't come with tangible proof but with feelings and perceptions that trigger your sixth sense.

Following the High Priestess requires a huge amount of trust in her abilities but also plenty of self-knowledge to distinguish sound advice from deception and illusion.

She encourages you to dig deeper in order to see the bigger picture, to work with nature's rhythms such as the moon phases and the seasons, learn from your dreams, and follow your aspirations (those goals that seem to call you).

The High Priestess in the Tarot of Quotes is a lighthouse in the darkness, the guiding light that shows you the way safely to your destination.

The surrounding sea is the vastness of feelings and emotions within you, and just like an explorer you need to navigate on the surface to find your way and dive in to find all the treasures (talents, secrets, answers) hidden in the deep.

Astrologically, the High Priestess is linked to the moon. The waxing moon (new moon) represents intentions, conception and manifesting.

In practical terms, when this card comes up in a reading, you may want to observe rather than take action, wait and see, be silent rather than chatty, listen rather than speak. Let something work itself out or a situation unravel in its own time.

If something doesn't feel right, don't do it or stop doing it.

Still waters run deep.

Follow your inner guide or ask someone you trust for advice.

What to avoid: moodiness, being irrational, unpredictability, isolation.

I welcome your views and opinions on my cards. Please feel free to leave your comment below.

⭐Check out the Cosmic Faery Tarot Guidebook and all images of my deck on Ko-fi⭐

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

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The Jupiter Cards In The Tarot

Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system signifying growth, expansion, luck and higher learning.

Jupiter in the Tarot is primarily linked to the Wheel of Fortune, and because this planet rules Sagittarius, we can also link it to Temperance.

Although Jupiter's energies are regarded as mainly positive and beneficial, it can also indicate challenges and setbacks.

The Wheel of Fortune makes this clear: perpetual movement brings change, not always good but sometimes necessary and mostly unavoidable.

When you are at the top of the Wheel, rest assured that at one point you will be moving downwards again. And vice versa.

Change always brings some kind of growth, new knowledge and insights - the silver lining in the cloud, if the change thrust upon you isn't what you wanted or were hoping for.

And you cannot apply the brakes on that Wheel, because there aren't any. Stuff is happening totally beyond your control.

Let's take this further to Temperance. Here we see the angel performing some alchemy, creating the perfect mix from two opposing extremes to achieve moderation and harmony.

There is no recipe or science to it, so a good result is simply a happy accident after some experimental trial and error.

Now take a look at the Two of Pentacles (Jupiter in Capricorn) and compare the image with Temperance. Can you see the similarities?

The Two of Pentacles takes us down to earth - juggling the day-to-day essentials like money, work, family... and all the while Jupiter's influence in the background is helping us grow.

The Six of Wands (Jupiter in Leo) and Nine of Cups (Jupiter in Pisces) show us some happy people, content and successful.

They are sitting right on top of the Wheel of Fortune. They are at their peak, but we also know that the wheel is turning....

And where are the people depicted on the Four of Swords (Jupiter in Libra) and Eight of Swords (Jupiter in Gemini) positioned on the Wheel?

The Four of Swords suggests rest, recuperation, retreat and healing, all of which can lead to personal growth, renewal and a higher understanding.

I'd say that this card is slowly moving upwards on the wheel, but then again that's down to personal perception. Where would you place this card?

The Eight of Swords is the total opposite to Jupiterian expansion: restriction.

The figure in this card is dreaming of freedom, and although the shackles seem to be self-imposed, Jupiter may offer a lucky break to escape from Colditz...

Now it's over to you to explore the cards:

• Which cards depict movement and which stagnation?
• If several of the Jupiter cards appeared in a reading, how would that influence your interpretation of the spread?
• What similarities can you see in the Jupiter cards to link them together?
• In what way do the cards reflect Jupiter's energies, especially luck and lack of control?

⭐Grab the FREE printable  journaling sheets I have created from my Starlight Tarot Astrology course page⭐

Warmest wishes,

Christiane

Connect with me on:

Substack - Live more Magic

Medium - Simplify your Life

Ko-Fi - Creative Tarot Journaling