Chanel's Tarot Blog

Fear doesn't have to stop you dead in your tracks!

How many times have you stopped yourself from succeeding and you don't know why? How often does some weird feeling slap you down and you never reach for what you want? It happens to most of us during our lives; although to some more than others.

This is called FEAR.. and it is a true detriment to anyone that entertains him for even the shortest amount of time. FEAR is like that crazy boyfriend that follows you around, embarrassing you to the point that you can't go out anymore. You can't laugh. You feel this stalker trying to slip his fangs in you, draining you of your life force, until finally...

Hey! Let's just get that thought out of our head.

The best way to not allow this blood thirsty ex creep into your life is to stay moving forward.

Here are some tips on how to overcome (gulp!) FEAR!

1 - Give yourself strong personal boundaries. The stronger the boundaries the more secure you will feel, and let's face it.. safety = security = nothing to fear.

2 - Understand your fear. Is it logical or illogical? Rational or Unrational? If it is logical or rational (e.g. you are contemplating jumping out of the airplane without the parachute) You may want to go back to step #1. But, if you are afraid of mayonnaise for no good reason (hey! don't laugh! It's a legitimate thang!!) , you may want to work through the source of that fear with a counselor who can help you begin to feel a bit more 'safe' in that area. But, for some of us.. the fear is just a little anxiety from stepping out of the comfort zone, which means you are okay, safe, secure.. just in need of a little extra encouragement.. which leads me to.......

3. Step Out of your Comfort Zone. Take the bold step out of your comfort zone, especially if it is just between you and your ego / emotions. Fear can cause us to go into hiding, not take the promotion, or drop a relationship when it's heading towards marriage. Listen, all you have to do is expand your comfort zone by taking baby steps. Imagine what it's like to BE in that 'fear' moment.. but without the anxiety ;) Picture yourself standing in front of an audience singing on stage, or imagine you are snorkeling on the Cayman Beach while in your bikini that makes you feel uncomfortable. Imagine how lovely it would feel when everyone is doing the exact opposite of what you expect them to do. A lot of times, our anxieties are creating our expectations so the conclusion of our fear can be realized.

4. Accept Failure. Oh?! You thought you will win every time? In all honesty, fear is the feeling of not accepting failure. We are afraid to fail. We can fail in different ways.. through loss, divorce, even death. But, remember.. that quitting is also failure, and that's what fear allows you to do. Once you accept failure, most fear will just subside. P.s. Loss of Control is also needed in order to accept failure.

5. Smile and Laugh. You better believe this is much needed! If you can smile and laugh at yourself in the moment, and even in the face of fear, then you'll learn to defeat any obstacle that comes before you.

Hoping you have a beautiful day and a fear-less week! If you would like to understand more about what it is that you FEAR in a situation.. what keeps you help back, please contact me here on Keen and I'd love to help you work through it!

Blessings,

Chanel

How Does the Pendulum Work ?

I love the directness that pendulum offers. We can the definite yes/ no answer with no wishy washy-ness!

But pendulums are curious, aren't they? How DO they get that yes / no answer?

Asking that gets you tons of answers such as :

Spirit Guide pushing the pendulum

Dark Entities at play

The practitioner is moving the string

It could be a breeze

While these are great, and often interesting and valid observations and opinions, the truth is that the pendulum is affected by our change of vibrational pull based on negative and positive charges in our own energy field.

Scientists have proven that objects move away from dark energy, which has a small negative vibration charge. So, when we connect with Universal energy and begin to vibrate neutrally, we have created a vacuum of dark energy (which doesn't mean evil.. only a term that scientists use). When the answer comes from the universe, it will be flowing in vibration with or against this dark energy, which reads by the swinging of the pendulum.

(This, of course, is one theory among many. What I find interesting is that when I use my pendulum, the tip will lift and move before the chain. I have no explanation for that phenomena. )

If the theory is correct, it means we can gain information from any working pendulum. It doesn't have to be a crystal at the end of a string. All we need is a vehicle to detect the change in energy vibrations.

For many years, I've been working with different types of pendulums and have found that many work like a charm. I want to share with you how you can make your own pendulums whenever you need to a detector of energy vibration..... especially on the fly.

If you want to learn how to make a pendulum on the fly, please check out my new recorded listing.

How to Word Questions for Tarot Reading

Wording your question can mean all the difference in the world between getting a very good reading and a lousy reading. Quite often, I have helped coach and word questions to get a nice answer. But sometimes, I get clients that want the quickest answer to their very quick and simple questions. I have put together a little guide and I hope you find it useful.

Wrong Question to Ask	Correct Rewording of Question
When will I get the job?	What do I need to do in order to obtain my dream job? What is holding me back from obtaining my dream job? What is my life purpose? What are my strengths and weaknesses in the work place? What should I consider when looking for my dream job?
Is Doug going to marry me?	What is the energy surrounding my relationship with Doug? What is the potential of the relationship ?
Tell me about my relationship	What is the potential of the relationship? What are the strengths in the relationship? Are there any obstacles in this relationship that I need to be aware of? What advice or guidance is there for this relationship? How can I strengthen our bond? What does my partner need from me? What challenges does this relationship make me face? What are the challenges of this relationship and how do I overcome them?
When am I coming into money?	How can I bring additional money into my life? What is holding me back from obtaining money? What direction can I look towards in order to gain monies?
When is he calling?	It is possible to answer this type of question with tarot, but it may be more beneficial to do deep inner searching and ask.. What should I expect when I hear from him next. What is the current / present energy surrounding 'us' right now? Is there anything that I need to know about why he isn't calling right now?
Tell me about my co-worker	What do I need to know about our working relationship? What are the strengths and weaknesses of our partnership? Have I done anything to upset my co-worker? How does my co-worker view me? What can I do in order to make the working relationship improve?
How does my kid's future look?	Is there anything that I need to be aware of with my child? What is the potential of the future? How can I nurture my child's greatest potential? What do I need to work on as a parent? What obstacles does my child face at this time? How do I handle 'this' situation?
When is the special guy coming into my life?	What is the type of man that I would relate to in the most positive manner? What holds me back in finding my special guy? What do I need to work on in order to be ready for my special guy when he comes into my life? What direction do I need to walk to cross paths with my special guy?

Tip #1 – Be Specific

If you notice with the list above, the wrongly worded questions leave it so open ended that we can bring in any general information that may or may not be what you need or wanted to know. Being as specific as possible helps to make your tarot reading session a success.

Tip #2 – Ask to Empower

Ask questions that will allow yourself to be empowered. Information is key to taking control over your life. Don't ask when or yes/no type of questions. Ask to get the information you need to make decisions about your life. Empowering questions start with ' how' or ' what I need to know.

Tip #3 – Be Pro-active

Ask for guidance and advice regarding your situation. Also, ask questions on what steps you need to take or what obstacles you may need to over come in order to allow 'such and such' to manifest in your life.

Tip #4 – Only worry about yourself.

I say this knowing how important it is to know where you stand in a relationship or opportunity of any kind. However, it is never okay, and against the ethics of professional tarot readers to invade the privacy of other people. Instead, look at obstacles, energy surrounding situations and asking what you need to know about it. My rule of thumb to follow, if it affects you personally, then it is okay to know.. if it doesn't affect you personally, then it's not okay to ask.

Tip #5 – Don't play ' Fool the Psychic'.

If you are dishonest in your questions and trying to prove that readers are wrong, you will get false answers and advice that will not be beneficial to you.

I hope you have found these tips helpful and useful towards making your next tarot reading session a success.

Blessings,

Chanel

Manifesting from a Tarot Point of View.

As a Tarot Reader, I often get questions that relate to the future. For Example..

• Is my boyfriend coming back?

• When will a job call me?

• When am I getting married and to whom?

• When will I get money?

• When do you see me being happy?

The list could go on and on. However, the problem with these types of questions is that it puts us out of our situation. It's as if we want life to happen to us and make everything right without us actually participating in making life happen for ourselves. At some point, we forget that we have been given the gift of free will and the ability to direct ourselves towards the life we choose. Perhaps it's not that we have forgotten, but more so, we don't want the responsibility to govern our own lives. If we fail, then what does that say about us?

First off, I think to get over that defeatist thinking means that we need to look at life as an obstacle course, rather than a series of failures. Some strong advice that I was told once was, if you can't change it.. don't. What goes along with that ? If you want to change it, then do it!

That's where manifestation comes in to play. To manifest, means to bring about change or to produce something from thin air. Let's take a moment and reference the above frequently asked questions. I always find it interesting how often a client will ask those questions, and be upset if we cannot manifest the outcome they want. I honestly don't know if clients feel we have the ability to produce the outcome they want, would rather us lie to them, or refuse to take responsibility over their own lives. Regardless, Tarot Readers cannot manifest changes in your life. What we can do, is help you find out what is holding you back from attaining or achieving your desired outcome. We can find obstacles in your way, or tell you if you are on the right track or not. We can look at the energy of the manifesting and get an understanding of the forces you are working with. However, we cannot make things happen for you.

Let's take a look at the above questions...

Is my boyfriend coming back? This is a loaded question, believe it or not. I cannot make your boyfriend come back, and it is by his own free will that he would come back. You may even want to consider having him back anyways. It's no fun having a boyfriend around that doesn't truly want to be there with you, in his heart of hearts.

But let's say, for the sake of argument, that you would like him to return. First you need to look at the energy of the situation as it is,now. Is he open to coming back? Why do you want him to come back? Etc. Then look at the break down from your past. Where did things go wrong? What lesson could you learn from the relationship ? Next, you need to look at whether or not you want the relationship to exist as it had and why. Really search through the whys. What do you want and need in a relationship?

Now, you are at a point that you can manifest your future. So.. is it still, is my boyfriend coming back that is the question, or would you rather ask.. ' How can I bring about the relationship that I would like to have in the future'? When you ask this question, it puts you in power of your situation and not dependent on whether or not your ex is giving you the attention you feel you desperately need in your life. Putting you in the power to manifest the type of relationship you want and need can make a huge impact on your life. We can still root for your ex to live up to your expectations, but in case he isn't capable or isn't interested, there is still room for you to bring the perfect guy into your life, through manifestation.

Let's take a look at the next question, When will the job call me?

First off, what have you done to get in touch with the job that you desire? Tarot cards would be better used in this situation for showing what you need to work on, what is holding you back, and what is the potential of you getting that particular job, and even what the employer is looking for in a person. Manifestation is all about knowing your boundaries, your odds, and what you are up against. Get all your fact first, then you can manifest, and the outcome will surely come.

So, let's start applying the rules of Manifesting.

1 - Know what you want to manifest and why.

Understand you motivations. When you manifest your desires, you do need to be aware if they are coming from a place of purity, or neediness, or anger, etc. You want to be in a grounded place. The desires should not be because of a crutch, like, money, fear, addiction, temptations, insecurities, etc. Be careful what you ask for.. you just might get it as the saying goes. It's true, sometimes you work hard along side the Universe in order to manifest things into your life, then you find you don't really want it. Repercussions from backlash of energy aren't always pretty.

2 – Understand the obstacles that hold you back.

Another person is not an obstacle! All people have free will, thus, having free range to move around on their own will. They are not an obstacle or holding you back unless you are choosing to allow that to happen. I want it to be understood that at no time am I suggesting that you should see a person as an obstacle and giving you the option of retaliating against them.

Obstacles are things that hold you back, and keep you from manifesting your potential. For example, an obstacle would be a mindset that you can't escape that says you cannot do something. It could be that you are afraid to change your lifestyle, or make a commitment. You could even be off chasing some dream fantasy that will never come true and miss opportunities that have been right under your nose.. ones that you are beginning to lose out on because they will not wait forever while you are chasing after fantasies. It could be a number of things and the sooner you find that out, the sooner you can remove those blocks for your persona.

3 – Get any additional information that you need to know.

This could be guidance, hidden energies, the lesson you need to learn or even making sure what you want to manifest is the right path for you. Perhaps you are not getting what you want because you need to be on another path.

4 – Put a Plan in place.

Jot down your intentions and then how you are going to achieve them. Brainstorm to come up with various avenues for success. For example, if you want to get your dream job. Think up all the ways you can get that job. You could volunteer or do an internship. You could plan an elevator meeting, or put your resume in the newspaper. You could network and see if you know anyone that knows someone in a similar industry that could help you. Search want ads, and visit the company with a presentation in tow. Jot down exactly what it is you want to accomplish and then brainstorm your way to the top!

5 – Start Manifesting.

Manifesting is pushing energy into a direction to produce your desired intent. When I say pushing energy, it really involves only thought, intent and action.

First, you have to put the thought out there of what you really want. Define it, see it, believe it. Next, state your intent.. and then finally, take action. Put all your ideas of achieving it into action. It's really that simple. After you've done all that.. forget about it for a while. Let your manifestation have time to work out. If you need to do a follow up with a reader to see how the energy went out and where it's going, that's fine. Keep good and positive vibes going by believing and knowing that it WILL happen, just as you had intended.

This is all there is to it. So the next time your life seems in shambles, contact your tarot reader and ask.. What is holding you back from getting.. X. and put the control back into your life!

Blessings,

Chanel

May 4, 2009

How to Choose the Right Tarot Reader for You

Picking the right tarot reader for you should not be taken lightly. There are quite a few things that a querent should consider when choosing their tarot reader.

1. What credentials does the reader possess?

I have to admit that even though I spent better than 10 years teaching myself how to read tarot, I went after any type of qualification I could find, when I decided to go professional. I'm completely surprised that many clients don't care to ask or see my qualifications. I'm equally surprised by how many tarot readers are against qualifications. I think this speaks volumes to this industry. If we are to be a professional and ethical industry, I honestly believe that both the readers and clients should look further into certifications and meeting qualifying criteria. I feel that it is so important that I am looking into formalizing a certification board and process down the road.

Some current organizations that offer some type of check and balances for professional tarot readers are as follows :

Tarot Association of the British Isles – They have a an intense training and endorsement program that is one of the best.

American Board of Tarot Certification

Tarot Certification Board of America

Magicka School – Gives a very intense schooling for tarot based on level I and II that is severely encompassing. It takes one year to get through this program.

Tarosophy - Fairly new, but all of us professional readers take pride in belonging to this great bunch of tarot readers and enthusiasts.

These are just a few of the official certifications that can give validation to professional credentials in this industry.

1. How many years has the tarot reader been studying tarot?

I'm sure I will get a lot of flack form the industry for this statement, but I believe that years of study should not be taken lightly. I also believe it should be equal to what we would consider Bachelor's and Doctorate level study in any other professional industry (e.g. Medical Doctor, Lawyer, Scientist). We are a professional industry. I believe a minimum of 8 years of study is needed to begin to read on a professional level. At 3 and 4 years, it is acceptable to begin doing free readings that are overseen by a mentor in order to get hands on training. What would be equal to a doctorate qualification should require the tarot reader to offer something to the field such as a book, deck, or written paper on tarot.

I want to stress, however, that length of study does not judge the psychic or intuitive abilities of the reader.

1. What types of study has the tarot reader mastered?

This is incredibly important information. Many clients don't realize that tarot can incorporate many other metaphysical systems. What I mean by this, is that astrology is a system that has correspondences in tarot. What this means is that a tarot reader that understands both tarot and astrology related to tarot, can give further interpretations and insights that the average beginning level reader will not be able to relate to you. Astrology is not the only system. There are many systems that correspond and can be integrated in tarot readings. This includes, but not limited to, Kaballah, crystals, alchemy, herbology, angelogy, numerology, etc. Clients should also consider that certain tarot decks have their own certifications to master. I'm hoping to include one with the tarot deck I'm currently creating.

1. Have you checked their feedback and testimonials?

As a client, you should look at the feedback for the tarot reader. This will let you know how others felt their performance and ability weighted. If you can not immediately see feedback, ask the tarot reader where you can either view feedback/ testimonials or if the reader has anyone you can contact.

1. Does the tarot reader belong to any reputable organizations that are known in the industry?

Don't hesitate to ask if your tarot reader is associated with any reputable organization. Just like in any other industry, a professional wants to align themselves with other professionals to keep abreast in their field.

1. What style of reading does the tarot reader have?

This is very important for you to know. There are different styles to reading. Some readers take a more therapeutic approach. There is a style of reading that is used in helping the querent look at what the cards mean to them. Some read in a gypsy fortune telling style. There is styles in which the reader will not read reversals or will read them. There is story telling styles. Some readers will only read key words for you to decipher and apply them to your life. There are many other types of 'styles' too. Some readers are sweet and to the point, others will elaborate at length. The best way for you to decide what style of reading is for you, is to look at 'sample' readings if the tarot reader has them listed on their website or maybe they can send you some upon your request. Some readers also offer a free reading for this purpose.

1. Does the tarot reader specialize?

This is important because some tarot readers specialize in one specific area and may not read in other areas of subject matter. I know there are some tarot readers that focus specifically on stock market, authors, careers, etc. Some will answer any and all questions. I don't mind reading on any question, but seem to read 'energy' better and do better when looking at situations between people. This can include career, relationships, and family issues. I have even had wonderful readings that include people whom have passed over or spirits stuck in this world. I must admit that I would not consider health my strongest point when reading, but based on clients that have been kind enough to give me feedback, I have read on health very well.

1. Does the tarot reader have a Code of Ethics?

All tarot readers that take themselves seriously as professionals should have one available for you to review.

1. What decks do they read with?

This may not be completely important to you, as a client, but it is important to know that there are a great many decks that a reader may use. Some readers will allow you to choose your deck for your reading or subject matter.

1. Finally, what delivery of reading do they excel at?

I'm sure you feel this is a peculiar question, but it's important. Do you prefer phone readings, emailed readings, text readings or readings at parties? Readers may not excel equally in all areas. My emailed readings tend to be more detailed, but I have received emailed readings that were three or four sentences long. Some readers do not like to do face to face readings and prefer email. This could be from their own issues with anxiety or in one case, a physical ailment. This could affect the quality of your reading.

I hope this has given you some level of standard that will aide you in choosing the right reader. The most important thing, however, when choosing a reader is that it FEELS right to you! Good Luck and may all your reading experiences be positive, enlightening and fill with valuable insights!

Blessings,

Chanel

March 16, 2009

How often should you get a reading?

March 19, 2009

I get asked this question a lot. In all honesty, I think getting a once a month reading is perfect. I, myself, get a reading every month to make sure things are on course and nothing is creeping up to blind side me. Sometimes I will get more than one reading a month if something big is going on in my life or I need to understand a situation better.

When you are in the midst of a situation that you are worrying over every move you make, it would be acceptable to get reading as frequently as you feel you need them. Some examples of this, would be, regarding financial decisions, job applications, a volatile time with a divorce or break up or when trying to mend a relationship, and when making important business decisions.

Not all people feel they need a reading once a month, and this is fine too. If you feel this way, then a yearly reading is what you are looking for. These are usually given at the beginning of the year. But sometimes people like to have them on their birthdays.

There is the occasion that I will have a client that will get a reading twice a year or one during every season. This is fine too. Bottom line... you should get a reading when you feel you need one. However, I want to stress, wait for situations to manifest before asking for another reading. If you ask too often, situations will begin to change and go back and forth and it can be very frustrating for you. Give yourself this much needed space between readings. Unless, of course, you are in the middle of some very large crossroad and you need help getting through it. Four to six weeks is a perfect spacing for most types of readings.

Blessings,

Chanel

March 19, 2009

You've gotten your reading, now what do you do?

Hopefully, during your reading, you had taken some notes. Maybe jotted down some key phrases. I would advice that within an hour of the reading, you may want to go into meditation and reflection mode and really understand what had been said during your reading.

As you are reviewing your reading, it is natural to have additional questions creep up on you that you wished you had asked or would like to ask now. Write those questions down! If you need to clarify part of your reading, check with your tarot reader to see if they allow follow up questions for clarification purposes. Most tarot readers do not mind. However, if you are requiring another reading, I would jot down the questions and keep it handy for the next few weeks and then bring them up during your next tarot reading session.

The next thing that you should do is make a plan of action. I do not mean this in a deceptive way like.. ' okay, this is how I'm going to make him break up with his wife and make him mine forever!'. What I mean is, use this time to devise a self improvement and moving into a positive mindset type of plan. If you had a tarot reading by a true professional reader, and you have asked / worded your questions correctly, you should have been given some advice to follow. Now you need to put this advice into action. Before you can do that.. you need the 'plan'. Were you going to go down Monday morning to apply for the job? In order to bring the 'right' guy into your life, what cobwebs did you need to clear out? What insecurities were identified that you need to overcome? This is what you are making the plan for.. Make a list for what needs to be accomplished and how you will do that.

Next, put your plan in action! Believe in it, Feel it, Do it ! Over the next few weeks, jot down your successes, your failures, your questions and be prepared to ask your reader about it. If things haven't manifested as planned, ask why not? If they are moving in the right direction, celebrate that, and see where things stand now.

The most important thing is to take time to meditation and reflect on your reading. Understand the advice that was given by your reader, and then putting a plan of action in place and work on it! You should begin to see some positive movement in your life.

Blessings,

Chanel

www.keen.com/Chanel The Psychic Radio Host
Phone Number
1-800-ASK-KEEN, extension 03329904

March 19, 2009

Prediction and Readings... Why it doesn't always seem to work.

March 15, 2009

Seven readers have told you in seven different readings that 'he' will come back in six months, and this has been going on for two years. Surprise...surprise nothing has seemed to happen. So you ask yourself.. “ What the blazes is going on here and why hasn't he called?”

Well, the first thing you should know is what tarot readers (and psychics) are all about. Tarot readers interpret the symbols and images on cards they have spread out in front of them in specific positions. This is done in order to have a specific view on the question the querent has posed regarding their life. This is incredibly informative and can help the querent gain insight into a situation and make positive healthy choices in their PRESENT journey. Many of us want to know the future, but what querent must understand, is that the future is shaped based on the choices we make in the present from understanding our past mistakes. One huge misconception and misunderstanding is that the future is destined or fated. This is simply not true. There are so many variables that can go into changing the future that it is very hard to predict with such finality and accuracy as to always be 100% accurate or all knowing.

In this industry, there are an ever large population of readers that will read your future in that old gypsy style of reading. This is what we, as a society, think of when we think of tarot readers. This is the person that will tell us when our soulmate is coming, what he/ she will look like and when we are marrying them. They will tell us how many children we'll have and when money is coming our way and where we will live and give us a happily ever after outlook on life while we can sit back and enjoy sipping our cocktails and happy to let life oblige us. Well.. there will always be the type of readers to give you this information, if you like. They are not always wrong, and perhaps not always right. It's something to tuck into your hat at the end of the day and remember how wonderful that vision was when it happens for you. You can use this information to know that you are on your path as if they are mile markers if you so like. This is only one type of reading style.. let's explore the others...

There are a growing number of tarot readers that simply refuse to read in the future sense, and only read for the past or present. Their stance is that nothing is set in stone and therefore the future can never be 'read' until the desired path is set upon. Still some may even believe that it is a waste of time to look at the future and setting a positive present path is the best guarantee for a positive future. Empowerment and healing is the key to this style of reading. This is considered a more therapeutically beneficial manner in which to read for the querent.

The way in which I read, is to combine both of these styles of reading and read in such a way that the querent is able to take an honest approach the their present path and also take a peek into their future in order to 'see' if their path is in tune with what they want out of life. This allows the querent to take matters into their own hands. This way of reading allows the querent to also gain advice and insight into why they have trouble getting out of old habits and situations, and give them practical advice for how to begin taking steps in order to change their path.

Now, let's get back to the question at hand, now that we understand what tarot reading is, let's answer. ' why isn't the predictions coming true?' Predictions are seen as the MOST likely outcome at this time. I hear a collective ' HUH?!' in the distance, so I'll explain further.

Everyone has possible time lines. I see them as lines in the distance. Some may merge, and some will go dark and are very light because the path is just a possibility but maybe wasn't entertained. While the 'heavens' may nudge us in a certain direction, the choice to jump on one path versus another is always our own.

Back where we left off...predictions are the most likely outcome at this time. A querent can always change the path they are. Future can be changed, literally, every second of every day depending on the choices we make.

So the question is still there.. ' why isn't he calling?' Well, just as we have the ability to change our future, so does everyone else in the world. Perhaps the other person made a choice that makes it not the right time to contact you. Perhaps the other person met someone else. Perhaps the other person in question didn't take the path that would lead to you. This is all supposing that you, as the querent, are doing all the right things to lead you down that path. There is still other people involved.

So you are saying that as a querent, you understand all that, but the house you wanted, still hasn't produced itself. Well, keep in mind that there are still people involved, and perhaps someone manifested that same house in their life and they jumped on it quicker or had a friend that helped out..etc. There are so many variables along the way that it's virtually amazing that there are many tarot readers, myself included, that have been able to predict with such accuracy.

Some things will just happen because the path was already set into motion and all parties are happily walking along. There are some, albeit rare, fated situations that are present in a querent's life because the heavens deemed it so. There are many many factors that can affect why any one of us walks one path versus another and to have it 'come true'.

The best way to approach prediction in a reading is to use the future information as a check guard for walking the positive desired outcome or to look for events already set into motion that you didn't expect and may surprise you or disrupt the flow in your life. This is for preparation. Learn to make the most out of your reading. Use prediction as a way to take control over your life, not as a way to see the hand that life dealt you while you sit back and wait for it to just happen.

I hope this article was beneficial to you and your search for getting the most out of your life. If you enjoyed this article, please sign up for my blog and keep informed !

Blessings to you and yours,

Chanel

www.keen.com/Chanel The Psychic Radio Host
March 15, 2009

How to make the most out of your Tarot Reading

How to make the most out of your Tarot Reading

Have you ever had a reading and left feeling like you never had your question answered? Perhaps your question was answered but now what do you do with the information you received?

To prevent this, there is a checklist of things you can do to make sure you are getting the most out of your reading. Keep in mind that you are an equal participant in your reading; just as much, or more so invested, as your reader. So why not make sure that you are coming fully prepared so the reader can work for you and give you the best reading they possibly can?

Here are some quick tips to get you ready for a better reading :

Do your research on your reader

Check qualifications, background, training, style of reading and feedback on the reader you choose.

Prepare your questions

Know exactly what you would like to ask ahead of time. If you have questions, write them down. This way, you are listening to your reading, rather than focused on the next question you would like to ask.

A good reader will ground themselves before a reading, and so should you.

Before your reading, make sure you take a moment to ground and center. I, personally, find it easier to read a person who is grounded than trying to read someone who's energy is scattered all over the place going a hundred different directions at once. I often find that I pick up much more detailed and spontaneous information when I read for someone that has taken the time to make sure they are grounded.

Give the reader a moment to connect with you.

Believe it or not, there are people that want a full blown readings and accuracy in less than three minutes. This is a case of ' you get what you pay for', in a manner of speaking. If you want a quick, fly by night reading, you will get just that. If you want someone to take a serious look at your life in order to help, you need to take a serious look at your reading. As a reader, we do connect with your energy. It takes a minute or two to begin to make this connection. No one is going to get a good reading in less than three minutes. So please allow your reader the time to make this connection.

Talk to your reader !

This is a hard one for many, because we want to make sure our readers are accurate, connecting with us, and giving us new information...not just feeding off of what we are telling them. Personally, I have never had a problem with beginning with a general reading to make sure that we both (querent and myself) know that I'm connecting with them. It's just as important to me, as a reader, as it is to my clients. Don't be afraid to break the ice with a general reading.. if it seems they are connecting well, then open up and let them know a bit of background. It allows us to follow the directions and patterns of the situation. Sometimes, we may see something and believe you are already aware. It's also nice to have the validation of the cards, as well. You should know by this point if your reader is honest and ethical and giving you an honest reading. Don't be afraid to open up and discuss openly. Once you become candid, your reader can then look at many different angles of what is going on with the situation and how to come out of it intact.

Wait for your question to be answered before you move on to the next question..

This advice also goes along with the practice of grounding and centering that I mentioned above. This could also be down to not understanding how a reader works. If you find yourself rattling off one question after another, you may want to check out that article too, for more detail :) For now, I'll explain with the short version. You should understand that a tarot reader listens to your question, shuffles cards, lays them out and then interprets the symbolisms as it pertains to your question. With this, we also read your energy (for those of us that can. Not all readers have this ability). When you move right to the next question, we are still 'reading' the last one and therefore you have a mixed up reading that doesn't seem to coherently make any sense. This is because the energies from both questions are entwined. This also happens when you try to pack as much as you can in 'one' question. For example.. ' Can you tell me when my ex will be calling me, and when we will be moving in together, and will I be able to get a new job if we move, and tell me about health problems afflicting my sister?' No joke, this happens about 50% of the time. Separate the questions out. If you would like more information on how to word a question, please check out this article on my blog. :) and leads us to..

Wording Your Question to get more bang for your buck.

Most everyone wants the most for their money, especially in today's economy. However, packing as many things into one question only gets you a very generalized reading when we lay out the cards. The cards will touch on all the points, but then not have room, or space, to tell us readers all the details surrounding that aspect. I usually approach this situation by tackling each question one by one. I feel that I can give you key details at a much more accurate rate than if you pack as many questions in. To be honest, I feel that I can move a lot faster in a reading when I'm not sorting out which card went with what part of the question. Asking one specific question at a time gives you a much better quality of detail in the reading. Likewise, be careful not to ask yes/ no questions. It's possible to word those with tarot, but in a yes / no type answer.. are you really getting your money's worth out of the reader? Simply put.. no! A reader is prepared to give you details, advice, and underlying energies if you give them the opportunity to address those in a fully worded question.

Accept the truth

We all know that saying.. the truth hurts. Yuck! One this is for certain, no matter how much you argue with the reader because you want the outcomes to be different, it will not change the fact of what's going on presently. If you don't like the outcome, then work with your reader to see what other opportunities might come about or what advice there is for changing the outcome into something more pleasurable. Sometimes what you want is not what your life's journey is about. Don't be afraid to ask your reader why this isn't a path you can take. The cards will let you know, especially if you have chosen a reader that works with angels, guides and universal energies.

Readers are not magicians..

Two points I would like to address here : If a reader offers to do any type of spellwork with the reading, BEWARE ! This should go without saying. All ethical readers recognize that this is not part of our job as a reader. We are here to be an advisor for you and aide you in making decisions about your life. We should not be affecting your life in any other way.

My second point is that... as an ethical reader, we will not and cannot bring about a future that you want simply because you want it. If you want a particular outcome, then you need to ask how to bring that about in your life and the consequences of doing so. Do not be mad at your reader because the other party decided they wanted to move on towards a different path that doesn't include you.

Take Notes

Before the reading, grab a piece of paper that you can refer back to over time. Jot down key phrases and factors. Refer back to this list and compare notes with other readings that you've had. This can help you see if you've changed your path, grown spiritually, and add extra value to your readings in a more spiritual manner.

Ask for Advice

Go the extra step and ask for advice. Be careful that your reader isn't giving their opinion, but is referring back to the cards for advice. There will always be times that we, as humans and healers, will feel urged to give our personal opinion on the matter or encouragements. However, make sure the reader is always giving and educated and inspired advice with the cards backing up their stance.

Aftercare

If you need more clarity, don't be afraid to ask. With this said, please make sure that you are not asking for additional information on questions. Remember that your reader does have other clients (and family) that deserve their time. Make sure that you take time in meditation or spent reflecting back on the reading. Write down additional questions to pose to your reader during your next session.

Accept responsibility for your life

Don't be afraid to understand your role in your life. Realize that we all have free will and a duty to ourselves to actively seek out positive actions. Remember that life doesn't happen to you, but you make your life happen. Learn from bad situations so that you can take that lesson with you and move on from them. Ask forgiveness when you need to, and if realize there are second chances if all parties are willing. Your life is shaped by your past, and the choices you make in the present. Nothing is set in stone. Take control and own up to accepting responsibility over your life.

Give Feedback

Feedback is very helpful to the reader. We learn with each and every reading. No one's is exactly the same.

I hope this article helps you to make the most out of your tarot reading session ! It's always a pleasure to help you move down your life path.

Many Blessings to you and yours !

Chanel  xoxo

Phone Number
1-800-ASK-KEEN, extension 03329904

What do we need to reconsider most when loving ourselves?

I'm sure you feel like you adore yourself, you have self esteem, you are a bit confident. Okay, maybe not leaping into the air and jumping about with ecstasy love for yourself.. but it's there. :) So why do you keep hearing how much you need to love yourself ?

We all have heard the advice at some point in our lives... You need to love yourself.. more! But, what exactly does that mean?

Recently, I've been pondering that myself. So I ask the tarot, ' What do we need to reconsider most when loving ourselves?'. I feel like often times, we have missed the message that the heavens are trying to get us to hear.

I shuffle my cards and come up with the 8 of wands. Such a lovely card ! Traditionally, us tarot readers may see that card and say something is coming in quickly or you are going on a trip. However, I'm going to explore this card on a deeper level in order to gleam all the messages from it.

The eight of wands seems to initially say to us that one way in which we can love ourselves is by saying positive affirmations and thinking positive thoughts throughout the day. I think daily devotions can also be a wonderful aspect of positive affirmations. You can experience this in so many ways. Many tarot readers, astrologers and rune casters will put up a daily 'card' or message on their blogs. Many of us, including me, will pull a tarot card in the morning as a positive affirmation. There is a wonderful deck based on the Rider Waite illustrations that is called Tarot Affirmations and full of positive daily thoughts that start with.. ' I am..' I also made one of those dangling pretties for my rear view mirror in my car that have positive words on it, eg. Love, happiness, joy, rainbows, etc. All words of happy thoughts to remind me of the way I choose to project my energy and thoughts throughout the day. Whatever system you use to remind yourself of the positive features and energy you wish to live within every day, is up to you. Just remember that this is one way of honoring yourself every single day.

I can hear some of you saying, ' … but I do'. Well, the eight of wands also reminds us that we have to be receptive in receiving the positive energy, thoughts and words from others too. One of the hardest things to learn was when someone said something nice... to simply say, 'thank you'. Believe it or not, that was one of the single most hardest things to learn. It felt so weird for someone to say something of mine looked nice, or I did a good job. I wanted to cut it down and say, ' well, I just happened to read a book on that the night before'.. or ' my mom's friend gave me the sweater', as if I was unable to have good taste. Whatever the reasoning, I realized one day that I had to be receptive of positive thoughts. Try that some time.. simply say, ' thank you'. No other explanation needed, just those two words.

If we look at the eight of wands we can also see how they are flying over water. Water can symbolize our emotions. In this sense, we have to be careful to not water down or dilute all those wonderful projected positive words, thoughts, and energies.

Another way to show self love is to not limit our spirit. Allow your spirit to express yourself in its fullest. Allow it to breathe and fly as far as it can.. how far can being you take you if you let it? Your spirit and your thoughts are all you truly own in the world.. why hide it ? Self love is about freely expressing the way you see life and allowing yourself to embrace all the experiences you wish to experience that keep you moving in a positive light. That's the key. Lot's of people think doing what they want is the key.. but it's about doing what you want that keeps you moving within the positive energy and what lifts you to new heights of esteem, success, confidence, creativity and spiritual awareness.

I believe the eight of wands is also sharing with us to get out and truly embrace all that life has to offer. What better way to celebrate ourselves but to celebrate the natural life around us. As I type this, I am being reminded how important it is to stay connected with loved ones. Showing how much you care for another and sending them the most positive parts of you, just seems to celebrate all that you are and all that you have to offer. There can be no better single way to honor yourself or show self love.

On the most basic level, the eight of wands is showing that self love can come from exercise and keeping your energy alive by taking good care of your self. Eating healthy and exercise go hand in hand with positive affirmations. Part of love is showing the ability to take care of it. Don't be afraid to intimately know your body.

Astrologically, the eight of wands is associated with Sagittarius. This tells me that to love yourself is to let yourself expand in your very presence of just being and living life to its fullest.

The next time you wonder what you could do to show self love, I do hope one of these ideas may come to mind. Keep on living and celebrating life.. and remember to remember to love your self!

Chanel

February 17 , 2009

Weight Loss - Step one.. according to tarot

Losing weight can be a difficult task for everyone.  You may know all the techniques, know the diets by the back of your hand. You may even have your printed diet taped to the fridge, but you can't seem to get those pounds! We have all been through all the senseless diets and excercise routines and haven't seen much victory for the pain. Because of this, I decided to consult the tarot and see if the Gods wouldn't mind to direct me in losing weight. Hey ! why not?  We've certainly tried everything else.. right?  What's to lose. (except weight) I know to  some of you this sounds frivolous, but hey.. I needed the help. With my tarot deck in hand and a nice quiet moment to contemplate achieving weight loss, I shuffled my deck and began my journey towards victory over my physical body.  I must say, it's been working. I'm writing this at six months in and 45 pounds lost...65 more to go.   So now I share with you the steps to losing weight, as directed through tarot readings in this Weight Loss Series.

First step

My Question : What is the first part in the process of losing weight ?

I shuffle the cards and draw the card  ' Judgement'  

I puzzle over this tarot card for a time. But I began to realize that the card depicts those that want delivered and saved from their heart aches and trials.  I understand THAT pain all too well. Often we have lived through great pains and trials in our lives that left us feeling sad, depressed, dispared, etc.  That type of stress effects how we process them shows through how we have processed our food through our system.  I've read that stress slows our metabolism down.  The judgement card shows people pleading to be saved from this pain they have felt in their life.  I come to understand that in order to begin the process of losing weight, we must be ready to be delivered and saved from that lifestyle.  When I started my journey, I can say I was ready. Not just because I wanted to be thin, or beautiful or whatever, but simply.. because I didn't need to be fat any more. Isn't that what we do? Sometimes, we become more comfortable living that type of lifestyle in which we are overweight. Whether it is to protect us, or give us pity or give us an excuse for not being perfect or having more energy, or whatever the reason.. It's a lifestyle that we live.  Maybe it's simply because someone is dependant on chocolates, or like the comfort foods because they feel better. For me, it was more of an emotional lifestyle I was living. I wanted someone to save me from myself. I wanted someone to discover who i was within. That's what I thought, but then i began to realize that I used the weight for a protection so I wouldn't be hurt by men. That none would approach me if I wasn't attractive enough, and the rough neighborhood I lived in.. well, let's say that a beefy woman is a bit more intimidating. This isn't the person I truly am, but it is what I came to find when I took a good healthy look at this lifestyle I had been living.

 The Judgement card depicts a welcomed death with the prospect of heaven looming just out of reach. Isn't this the truth for those of us trying to lose major amounts of weight! This is telling us the obvious. We believe a type of heaven to welcome us in if we could just lose weight. It is just out of reach, but instead of feeling it's something unattainable, we need to let it force us to keep working towards it. Let it fuel our fires and keep us motivated towards that goal.

 I reference a book on tarot and health to see that for judgement it is about facing past lessons and healing through meditation.  This does make sense as the first part to healing comes in recognizing our role in where we are now.  I have visited that part of my past. I have been judged as well, regarding my weight. Now it is time to contemplate on focused prayers that might aide me in this journey of healing. We see the red cross on the white cloth, the healing blood of Christ to wash our souls clean. Perhaps this first lesson has a hint of forgiveness within the judgments we bare. This stage is full of emotion (water) and as we bare our souls. We must forgive ourselves to change and deliver ourselves in the forgiveness.  I found this to be especially true when I realize how much guilt and shame I have felt over allowing myself to gain weight and letting my looks suffer because of the inner pain that I felt.

 We place ourselves in between knowing we must put part of us to death, and part is reborn.  This is a scary thing when people have always been told they were awkward, ugly, unattractive, unfit, etc.... So much judgement has already been given to people who are overweight, naturally you begin to believe what you are told about yourself. It's really difficult to then be at peace with changing into someone that is new to both you and everyone in the world. How will that new self be received ?  One of my biggest fears was coming to terms that I was an okay person. I couldn't help but wonder..' what if I became thin and I was still ugly and awkward?'  When I pondered this, I really understood that THAT is what kept me from losing weight in the past. I have been told by so many (even when I was thin long ago) that I was ugly (throughout the whole of my life), so much so, that I really wondered.. What if I go through all this trouble of losing weight and still.. no one will love me because I am so ugly?  I had to work through this and realize that I was okay, when I view pictures of myself, I don't understand completely how they thought I was ugly.  I've also come to realize that I am okay with myself, and perhaps it's not my issue nor burden of a cross to bare. That lies within those that cannot see the beauty that I possess both inside and out.  So now.. I ready to put to death (figuratively speaking) the old worn out and used part of 'me' and ready to be reborn into the new me !

  In short.. here's a summary of the First Steps :

• Meditate and Contemplate on what it was that aided in putting on those pounds. Why did you make the choices that led you to gaining weight ?

• Understand what it is that kept you in an overweight and unfit body. Were there emotional pains that you need to look at and view so you can move past it?

• Be completely honest with yourself, it's between you and the heavens now. Draw your strength from the god's within and the Gods around, Heaven within and heaven all around. This is what will keep you moving and goal oriented.

• Forgive yourself and Forgive those that have hurt you in the past.

• Be prepared to put to the past your old lifestyle and false beliefs about yourself.  Be ready to be reborn into the new you and new lifestyle.

Furthering Notes about the Judgement Card

It's number is 20 (XX) - This equals 2 in numerology that speaks to being balanced. Being balanced in spirit and mind are key to keeping with your goals. Twenty is also ten twice which emphasizes strength and will power. The tenth tarot card is the wheel of fortune, so as the turn of our fate must we move past our time of being overweight.

The tenth commandment is - ' thou shalt nto covet thy neighbor's house, thou shalt nto covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor anything that is thy neighor's. ' ~~ Exodus, XX, 17.

This is a bit fitting, we should not lust over anything, especially food.  If we lust after anything, then we are not complete as a person and we will not be able to become whole. To desire something is okay, as we will try to achieve a higher goal to attain such a thing that is necessary for our growth. But if we lust after something, it may be okay for someone else, but not necessarily good for ourselves. We have become enslaved to it. In being overweight we visit this twice..  once in food and once in other's beauty or health.

Judgement helps us to realize it is better to be whole and complete in mind and body, balanced and at peace through forgiveness. It is better to be a complete and whole healthy person that can stand strong looking at our past mistakes so we may not repeat them in the past. So we can make amends and welcome in a new lifestyle that we are able to appreciate and exist within.

I wish you well and send you good luck !

~~Chanel