The Tarot Lady

Learn More About “Tarot For Brand New Moms”

Theresa Reed — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 18:21:45 +0000

I’ve recently launched the first in my series of “digital classes” for those who wish to learn tarot with me. The beauty of a digital classroom is that anyone can study with me, no matter where they are located! And because the classes are recorded, you can listen to them again and again which helps to reinforce the learning.

Tarot For Brand New Moms is my first offering and I’m very excited about it. This class will help more parents learn that tarot can be an ally in those sticky parenting situations. Plus, they may be pleasantly surprised to discover that it is easier to learn tarot than they may have been led to believe.

My teaching style is direct, simple, interactive and clear. There will be no esoteric mumbo jumbo, no complicated systems to learn, no cryptic rituals – this is tarot for real people with real lives.

I’ve received a few questions about the class so I thought I’d write a little bit to tell you a more about my goals with this class as well as upcoming ones:

What is your mission in these digital classes?

A: My goal is to help more people learn how to use tarot for themselves and for different life issues. I’m a practical tarot reader and I have found tarot to be one of the best tools to help navigate through life’s ups and downs. Many people feel that they “can’t” learn tarot and that only a select few are “gifted” enough to work with it. I’m here to dispel that notion and to show every person that they can indeed learn tarot – and more importantly, learn to use it for real life situations.

My other mission is to bring the tarot down to earth and make it accessible. I intend to do that by cutting the “tarot babble” and making it easy to understand. There will be no heavy esoterics or lingo that is hard to comprehend. I am going to make these classes appropriate and easy for all levels. I’m all about real tarot for real people with real situations.

How can tarot help brand new moms?

A: Being a mom is the most challenging job in the world! Despite the glut of baby books and information out there, you’re still learning as you go. By connecting with our own divine guidance through the use of tarot cards, we can make better decisions that suit the individual child and situation. Tarot is a tool that can empower the parent to make more confident and conscious choices.

I’ve used tarot myself in many tough parenting situations. It has always helped me to gain perspective as to what was needed so that I could better guide my children.

What kind of things will we learn in the class?

A: We will talk about conscious parenting, trusting the intuition, how tarot can be applied for parenting questions as well as a bunch of different spreads that can be used in many creative ways.

What if I cannot make the live classes?

A: No worries – each of the live classes will be recorded and a link will be sent to the participants so that they may download it and listen to it whenever they wish.

Tell me more about the bonuses?

A: I’ve got some juicy bonuses! I’ve interviewed some awesome tarot readers who are parents for a variety of hot topics! I’ll be talking with Donnaleigh de la Rose, the host of Beyond Worlds about Tarot For Children with Special Needs. I also have a great interview with Chanel Bayless, the creator of A Knight’s Journey Tarot and the brand spanking new hot of the presses Simply Deep Tarot about Tarot and Single Parenting. Finally, I just added a very cool bonus interview with Matt Williams of Personal Tarot With Matt – he and I discussed Tarot for Dads and offered ideas for working with tarot – and more – for fathers. This wealth of information will give parents from many different backgrounds a lot to work with.

What if I am not a brand new mom – what if I am the parent of teenagers for example? Can I still take the class?

A: Absolutely! Even though the class is titled “Tarot For Brand New Moms”, the spreads and information presented is timeless. Some of the information in the workbook for example are spreads that can be adjusted to ANY parenting situation and I give examples for school age kids – not just babies.

I especially encourage parents of adolescents and teens to consider this class as there is a lot of stuff here that they will find useful.

What if I am a dad? Are men allowed to take this class?

A: Men are not only welcomed but encouraged! Who says women are the only ones that are intuitive? The information in this class will help any dad learn to connect with their own intuition and make conscious choices that can aid in their role as a father. They can help them to learn to interact more sensitively and mindfully with their children. Men have the same intuitive gifts as women and they shouldn’t be afraid to use it! I think tarot is a great way for men to access their sensitive psychic side.

If you are interested in signing up, please visit Tarot For Brand New Moms and sign up today. Registration closes on Monday morning, February 20th 2012.

Any other questions? Shoot me an email and I’ll be glad to answer you!

Blessings!

Theresa

PS Tarot is NEVER a substitute for medical, psychiatric or legal advice. Always consult the proper professional. Common sense people!

Tarot Dads – Matt Williams

Theresa Reed — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 11:49:12 +0000

Tarot Moms is a series of interviews with professional tarot readers who are also moms. Hear what they have to say about intuition, parenting advice – and using tarot as a guide for those tough dilemmas many moms face. Of course, we must not forget that there are plenty of professional readers who are Dads too. Sooo………

I couldn’t finish this series without getting a male perspective – I had to chat with Matt Williams!

Matt is a professional tarot reader, reiki master and father of two. He is the author of Tarot Thoughts Blog at http://personaltarotwithmatt.com/blog and his writing has been featured in Tarosophist International as well. On Tuesday nights at 7 pm Central, Matt hosts the Akasha Temple Radio production, “Personal Tarot Radio” at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/akashatemple. To keep up with Matt and find out more about him, check out his facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/personaltarot or follow him on Twitter @personaltarot.

To order a reading with Matt, you can visit his website http://personaltarotwithmatt.com or email him at readings@personaltarotwithmatt.com. Readings are available in person throughout the Greater Chicago area and email based services are available globally.

1. We always hear about “motherly intuition” but we all know that males have those parental instincts too. How does your intuition serve you?

Oh goodness, if it wasn’t for my intuition I think I would have freaked out as a parent. As little ones, it was that inner voice that helped me know when something was going awry in the other room. It was the energetic, non vocal communication that I had with my kids that helped me to understand the needs they were experiencing but could not voice. Now that they are getting older and developing their personalities, it is my intuition that helps me find ways to connect with them. This past weekend as we were coming home from a trip up to Michigan, I was paying attention to the intuitive messages that were coming in. Despite the vocalized apathy and distractions from video games, I suggested we take a little detour and drive down the lake shore highway. After a little bit, we found a roadside park with beach access and took a walk down to the water. Suddenly, the games and boredom vanished. The beauty and peacefulness of the waterfront gave us a chance to laugh, play and enjoy the time we had together more memorable than the entire weekend trip.

2. How has tarot helped you with your parenting?

With the tarot coming into my life much later than my kids, it has been interesting to see some of the ways that I can examine issues in their lives from a deeper perspective. My son has experienced the frustration and tension of bullying more than once. While this is never an easy thing for a parent to deal with, by using the tarot I was able to help both of us see the situation in a new light. Through a joint exploration of the cards, I was able to show him not only the reasons behind the bully’s actions but ways to avoid the situation and thrive despite outside pressure.

3. What advice would you give new to parents?

The biggest thing I can say to new parents is that no one knows how to raise your child like you do, even if you don’t feel like you know what you’re doing. The most prevalent thing I found in early parenting was a proliferation of advice coming from everywhere and everyone. So much was coming at me, that I often doubted my skills as a father and whether or not I was “doing it right” according to other people’s expectations. Once I realized that the only way I could screw up was to not be involved in their lives, I saw that every thing I did as a father was right. Love your kids, trust in your judgment and know that even when you make a mistake it is an opportunity for you all to grow.

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A big hug to Matt for contributing a Dad’s point of view! You can learn more about Matt or purchase a reading from his site, Personal Tarot With Matt.

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

Are you a new mom or expecting your first child? Are you a parent who wants to learn how to use tarot for effective parenting? Tarot can ground & anchor you in your intuitive wisdom, empowering you make the best possible choices for yourself, your partner & your kidlets. Check out my program: Tarot For Brand New Moms – and let’s get your tarot parenting on!

Tarot Moms – Louise Underhill

Theresa Reed — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:40:07 +0000

Today I am chatting with mom of two, tarot reader and the new chairman of TABI (Tarot Association of the British Isles), Louise Underhill of Priestess Tarot.

Louise has been reading tarot for many years but went pro shortly after her first child was born. She is an avid blogger and also studies Mythology, Quabalah, I Ching, Astrology and Numerology. And if that wasn’t enough for this busy mom, she’s also involved with the Tarot Academy in Droitwich!

1. How does your motherly intuition serve you?

I’ve been working with the Tarot for so long now that I see some situations as Tarot Cards. I don’t want my children hurt, but that in life in inevitable. So my intuition kicks in to let them experience life, good and bad but they get a loving hug from mum (Queen of Cups) regardless of their daily experiences. Sometimes though, The Emperor comes out of me or the Queen of Swords. Kids can really wind one up the wrong way at the worst of times!

2. How has Tarot help you with your parenting?

Like I said above, I see some situations and their personalities as Tarot cards. Say, the little ones are having a fight? 5 of Wands (conflict of personalities). They’re tired and won’t sleep? 4 of Swords (make a calm and quiet environment). They’re hungry? Aces of any kind, usually cups! (They’re emotionally raw when they’re hungry!) and Pages of any of the four suits, usually wands and pentacles with my two! I don’t ask the Tarot “what do I need to do with Child #1″ when they’ve been naughty, I don’t need to know Justice might come up, Justice strikes right there and then, it’s direct (Chariot) and swift, then it’s over with. I don’t hold a grudge or keep going over it again (8 of Pentacles).

I start seeing the cards in my minds eye. Also, I class it as a third party reading: they’re well under 18 and while I might be teaching them to use their intuition etc. reading about them or asking the Tarot for me, is a no. If I want to know something about them, I ask them. However, they do come up in my self readings, as you would expect as they’re close to me! The trick is recognising which cards your children usually come up as.

3. What advice would I give new moms?

Part of my answer for this comes from The Wildwood and it’s the Ten of Arrows and it’s keyword is Instruction. Instruct your children, pass on the knowledge but in the end, they’ve got to release the arrow from bow themselves. Don’t do it for them! That’s far far easier saying it than doing it!! Trust me!

Another piece of advice I can give, is get into a group with other parents, a playgroup or something and compare notes with other mums and dads whose kids are the same age as yours. It lets your little ones socialise and learn social skills from very early on and also, if a given situation happening to other mums and dads at the same time (weaning, injections, potty training, teething…) knowing you’re not alone is half the battle. There is something comforting making friends with others in the same boat (2 of Cups) and at 3am, when you’ve only had half an hour sleep due to them having started showing signs of chicken pox, it’s nice to know someone else only a few miles away, may also be suffering! Misery loves company!!

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Many thanks to the always busy Louise for making time for this little interview. Learn more about Louise or purchase a reading from her at Priestess Tarot.

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

Tarot Moms – Stella Luna

Theresa Reed — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:47:15 +0000

Our next featured mom is the delightful tarot reader from down under, Stella Luna.

Stella Luna, mother of two, is a professional Tarot reader based in Brisbane, Australia. She is accredited as a Professional Tarot Reader by the Tarot Guild of Australia and is a Certified Professional Member of Tarot Professionals. Stella is passionate about Tarot and works with it daily, whether doing readings for clients, reading or writing about Tarot, planning workshops or meetups, gaining creative inspiration or working with it for her own personal development. She has travelled to meet and study with Tarot luminaries and peers at Tarot conferences across the globe.

An established illustrator, Stella also hopes to produce her own Tarot deck in the not too distant future. She is the Australian Tarosophy Consul for Tarot Professionals and is the organiser of Tarotribe meetup group in Brisbane, Australia.

1. How does your motherly intuition serve you?

I have always been sensitive to other people’s feelings and moods but I believe this has been enhanced since I became a Mum. Young children rely on their parents for support, especially of an emotional nature. As a Mum I am deeply intuitive to their moods and emotional needs and know when a hug or a listening ear will work wonders. I’m sure this carries over to my other relationships as well as when conducting Tarot readings.

2. How has tarot helped you with your parenting?

There have been times when I have consulted the cards for insight into a situation concerning one of my children. Sometimes the cards have highlighted an angle I had not considered. Also, a large part of Tarot reading is about trusting and listening to your intuition. At one point years ago I realised I should never dismiss my children’s intuition either. Now, if I am asked “What’s wrong Mummy?” I may not give details but will at least acknowledge that I am upset rather than replying with a “Nothing, I’m fine Sweetheart!”… A child’s intuition is so strong, and should be nurtured.

3. What advice would you give new Moms?

Well, some advice, not so much for new Mums, cause babies require constant care and prompt attention, but for mothers of young children, and for myself too, cause I am yet to heed it… If you live Tarot the way I do, try to balance it with your role as a Mum… So many times I have been absorbed in a Tarot book, deck or reading only to look up and realise that bath hasn’t been run, the dinner not started or that it is past their bedtime. Will I ever learn? LOL.

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Hugs to Stella for making time for our little chat. You can learn more about Stella or get a reading from her at her website, The Tarot Reader. Be sure to check out her blog and Facebook page as well.

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

Tarot Moms – Chanel Bayless

Theresa Reed — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:18:59 +0000

Today we are talking with the busiest woman in tarot – deck creator and proud mother of four, Chanel Bayless.

Chanel is a professional tarot consultant who specializes in creating fun, innovative metaphysical tools for exploring complex spiritual topics. She has an insatiable thirst for knowledge that includes serious study of Reiki, Kabbalah, Prophecy, Tarot, Chakras, Numerology and ancient religions. Chanel is deeply involved in advocacy, serving as a community parent leader and board member for Family and Children First. She continually strives to support the brilliance that lives within all women through her writings and informational tools on Tarot and through her professional practice. She is the author of Simply Deep Tarot and A King’s Journey Tarot.

1. How does your motherly intuition serve you?

My children have wonderful stories about my intuition! My 20 year old daughter often talks about how she learned quickly as a young child that there was no point in lying because I always seemed to know when she was hiding something, and what she was hiding. It left her with the inability to lie.

One story I like to share with other Moms in how my intuition (and determination) helped me be able to seek out the proper medical care that my children needed.

When my 17 year old son was 2, I KNEW something was wrong. I knew his cries and behaviors were not a result of bad parenting as one doctor suggested, I knew he didn’t have an infection as another wanted me to believe. There was something very wrong. I allowed myself to be led by my intuition. I let my intuition guide me to a doctor that initiated a discussion about my son having Autism six months after other doctors would deny it. Over the course of 15 years, I have managed to feel the behavior changes, and challenges, in him before they took complete hold of his life. Every time I felt that shift in him, I knew I needed to seek out treatment, and we’ve managed to stay one step ahead of the game. While my son still has a long way to go, he has come so far in his treatment. I definitely attribute it to my ability to listen to what my intuition had to say about what treatment my son needs and what direction to look in order to get that treatment provided. I know that he continually expresses his appreciation, and often thanks me, for my ability to understand what he needs and what he is trying to express, despite his expressive communication disorder and disorganized thoughts.

Another story I’ll share with you happened last year. I kept feeling like something was wrong with my daughter, but nothing seemed to be evident. I kept mentioning it in case anyone would clue in on it. Two months later, we discovered an abnormal mole on my daughter’s scalp. The first doctor didn’t seem to be worried. I took her back to the doctor the next day and asked to see a different doctor and he took it very serious. The next week she saw the surgeon, it was removed. It was starting to process, but thankfully, we caught it quickly and all of it had been removed.

These are a few of the more drastic examples, but on the day to day, I’m able to really open up and talk with my children about their lives. My intuition helps me to understand what is going on with their studies, friends, relationships, etc. This helps me to prepare them for success and teach them how to be proactive in their life rather than letting life be the luck of the draw. I can openly discuss the possibilities that I feel coming in. I’m not brash. I just open up the conversation around issues by asking questions to help them process all the possibilities before them. I’ve also been able to help them understand some of the ‘why’s ‘ in life through what information I pick up around the situation they are going through.

How does it serve me? It allows me to pick up on what is going on in my child’s life that they need help around, but haven’t been able to voice it, whether it is a lack of awareness, or unsure of how to communicate their concern. My intuition receives the signal that I need to pick up on so that I can give the proper guidance or open up the appropriate doorways for my children.

2. How has tarot helped you with your parenting?

There are a couple of different ways tarot has helped me with my parenting that I’d LOVE to share with you.

1. Tarot makes a FANTASTIC storyteller! My youngest daughter used to love ‘story time’ which was a nightly bedtime ritual for a time. She would often use the Zerner-Farber Tarot Deck. She would turn over each card as if it was a page in a book, sharing such vividly imaginative stories with me. Each night was like a new book. On these nights, tarot created an opportunity for us to bond while her creative imagination expanded.

2. In the morning before school, through the tween years, my children enjoyed pulling a card from Tarot Affirmations to use as a positive attitude to help them throughout the day. I also used this to talk about how to turn what they thought was a ‘bad’ energy into a more positive outlook.

3. I used tarot to explain how different people communicate so that my autistic son could understand social interactions. Autistic children use picture cards to communicate. As my son got older and he could speak very well, we weren’t using the cards. But a couple of years ago, I realized how tarot could model a variety of social situations for him. So, when he would tolerate it, I would walk him through the tarot energies and then we’d act it out in real time so he could break through some of his barriers.

4. The way that I understand tarot and use problem-solving reading skills with the cards in regards to the Fool’s Journey archetypes really helped me understand that there is a growth process at work in all our lives. When I saw my children go from tweens to teens and then start making their way into the adulthood, I could see their struggles and joys echoed by the process of the Fool’s Journey. As I began to recognize their pattern, I could understand the ‘stage’ they were going through. Again, this really helped when I needed to explain why they felt the way they did, or what would benefit them at that stage. Tarot helped me feel reassured that whatever stage they are going through, I knew it is that.. just a stage.

5. It opens up discussions on religious history, and what parent doesn’t feel grateful for any teaching tools that we can get our hands on?

6. What I really enjoy with my older children, is the ability to explain symbolism on the cards. They have no interest in learning tarot, but are intrigued by what the symbols mean. How does this help with parenting? Understanding tarot symbols and how symbolism works has really increased their ability to understand symbols at work every day in their environment. They can pick up clues from men, nature, friends, etc. that is likened to carrying their mother’s guidance with them everywhere they go. They no longer need me to point out this and that in their environment. Now, they can pick up on clues and messages at work all around them.

3. What advice would you give new moms?

First off, Congrats for being the wonderful Mother that you are. Remember to always take care of yourself, no matter how busy life gets.

So, What advice would I give a new Mom? Well, My advice to new moms is to always trust that you know what’s best for your child. There is an energetic bond that connects a Mother and child. Through that bond, you can speak without words, feel without touch, and hold tightly in a loving embrace. Your role as a Mom is to help guide your children so they can navigate the different types of energy in the world. Deepening your understanding of Tarot can definitely help you understand how to help them navigate this energy.

My last bit of advice is to bring the philosophy of tarot to your child, even if you never show your child a tarot card in their life. Tarot cards are only a reflection of the world around us. What happens on those cards are the same energies present in our daily lives. Teach your children how to understand those energies so that they can use those energies as an asset rather than leaving those energies to keep them stuck, as so many people struggle with day in and day out. Communication, structure, consistency, and love is the very best foundation in which to branch and grow.

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I’m so grateful that Chanel was able to take time out of her life for this little chat. Learn more about Chanel or get a reading from her at her site.

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

Tarot Moms – Johanne Blanchard

Theresa Reed — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 15:01:39 +0000

Today I’d like to introduce you to Johanne Blanchard – a fabulous tarot reader and contributor to Tarot Elements, one of my favorite tarot sites.

Johanne is a stay at home mother of 4 children (ages 3 to 11) and a part-time University Professor in the Religious Studies department. She has spent the last 15 years learning about psychology, world religions,Jungian archetypes and symbols amongst other things. Tarot has brought her deepest passions into a pocket size format, a chance to help others take an active part in making their lives more meaningful.

1. How does your motherly intuition serve you?

Johanne: I have been a mother for almost 12 years now. It has taught me to follow my gut feeling, to be open and loving. When it comes to my kids, if I feel that something isn’t right, for example when they are sick, I act upon it. This has given me confidence in my intuition, and I have grown as a person because of it. My motherly intuition serves me when I use tarot because I am more patient. I listen more. I don’t judge. I listen for the meaning underneath what is said

2. How has tarot helped you with your parenting?

Johanne: Tarot has helped me with respecting the different personalities of my 4 kids. It has also shown me that it is valuable to take a step back and look at a situation differently. There is always more than one way to solve a parenting challenge, and even if the outcome is not perfect, it’s the journey that is the fun part. I’m learning to be a mother just as my kids learn to become individuals. Tarot is a great companion on this journey.

3. What advice would you give new moms?

Johanne: My advice is to not listen to advice if you don’t want to! Go forth in this amazing Fool’s journey with an open heart and mind. You will meet wonderful people on your journey, namely yourself. Let your children be great teachers. Be present. And enjoy!

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A big thank you to Johanne for making time for this interview.

Learn more about Johanne or get a reading from her at Tarot Elements. You can follow her on Twitter also: @Johanne_4

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

Tarot Moms – Brigit from Biddy Tarot

Theresa Reed — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:00:40 +0000

We are starting off with one of my favorite tarotists and the brains behind Biddy Tarot, Brigit.

Brigit is a mum to two beautiful girls, Chloe (2 1/2) and Zara (7 months). Brigit is also a professional Tarot reader, blogger and author of The Ultimate Guide to Tarot Card Meanings (I HIGHLY recommend this book, by they way). Learn more about Brigit and discover how to learn Tarot at www.biddytarot.com.

How does your motherly intuition serve you?

Brigit: Motherly intuition started during pregnancy, particularly as I prepared for birth. For both my babies, I used HypnoBirthing to have a calm and easy birth, without drugs or major intervention. HypnoBirthing uses relaxation, visualisation, self-hypnosis and breathing techniques so that you can remain more ‘present’ during birth and really connect to the spiritual aspect of birth. So, as I gave birth, I feel deeply connected with what was happening within my body and with my baby, making it an amazing experience. I would certainly call this an intuitive process as I worked with my baby and my body.

Now, as my two girls grow up, I often like to find a place of calm and silence to connect in with their individual energy and understand them for the beautiful little beings they are. I also see them as my two little spiritual teachers, who love to test my patience and who challenge me to be a better human being.

How has tarot helped you with your parenting?

Brigit: When Zara was first born and I was getting used to life with a 2 year old and a newborn, I used the cards quite regularly to provide insight on how to deal with each day. The journey into motherhood is intense and I found that the Tarot cards gave me a vital focal point to help me through.

I also had Theresa read for me at a time when everything felt quite chaotic, and again, it was a great way to find some peace within the situation.

What advice would you give new moms?

Brigit: My advice to new mums is to deal with each day as it comes and to know that everything is temporary. When you’re having one of those days where baby won’t sleep or eat or stop crying, then just know that tomorrow will be different. But also remember that even the good times are temporary. It’s as if we are on a constant journey of ups and downs, but it’s all part of the spiritual journey of being a mum.

If I can squeeze in a book recommendation, it would be “Buddhism for Mothers”. This is a great book that offers help to new and experienced mums to find peace with being a parent.

And most importantly, make sure you have some time to yourself, to refresh and renew yourself every few hours or days – whatever you need. It’s easy to get caught up with the busy-ness of motherhood, but you will be a much better parent if you can re-energise on a regular basis.

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A big thank you to Brigit for taking time out of her uber-busy life to chat with me!

Learn more about Brigit or get a reading from her at Biddy Tarot.

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

The Deck and Book Nook – Tarot For Magical Times

Theresa Reed — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:01:43 +0000

I’ll admit this: I’m rarely concerned with how astrology aspects affect the world. Usually when I look at the transits, I’m only concerned with what it means for me. I know it’s a rather self absorbed approach but I think a lot of astrology buffs tend to do the same thing.

However, when Pluto entered Capricorn a few years back, I started paying more attention to things that were happening in the outer world. The last time Pluto was in Capricorn was during the American Revolution. A lot was happening then as old structures were torn down and new ones were erected. That same energy is happening right now and will continue for about a decade ahead.

“Tarot For Magical Times” by Rachel Pollack and Johannes Fiebig (US Games ISBN 1-57281-720-8) addresses this transit in a clear and precise manner with a tarot slant. This is no ordinary tarot or astrology book – it is one that we can find useful for our lives (and the state of the world) right now.

The authors begin by discussing the significance of Pluto in Capricorn which helps even those who are unfamiliar with astrology understand the importance of this transit. Thankfully, they refrain from “astrobabble” – they managed to break it down and explain in so everyone can “get it”. One of the most frustrating things about many astrology books is the over complicated lingo. The authors avoid that trap and keep it real and accessible.

After this introduction, they move on to tarot in a section titled: Tarot, Tool of Change. Here, the authors talk about the history of tarot, the basic structure, its relation to the I Ching, prophecy, and more. I especially enjoyed reading the passage about The Tower in relation to the events surrounding September 11th – this was a very powerful part of the book that clearly demonstrated how tarot can predict world events.

This section is followed by another chapter entitled “New Life Blossoms In the Ruins” from astrologer Ernst Ott. This part focuses on the three phases of the Pluto in Capricorn transit: Destruction of Walls, New Life blossoms in the ruins, and Resurrection of all that is buried. The shadow side of this transit is treated as a gift for transformation with suggested exercises. Powerful stuff.

And if this wasn’t enough food for thought, the authors then offer interpretations for each tarot card as well as spreads so that the reader can begin to tap into the wisdom of the cards. This is the real “meat” of the book. Divinatory meanings, reversals and actions are all covered – and I was thrilled to see that there are beautiful, full color images of the Rider Waite Smith cards! (All the images in the book are attractive – this is a big selling point for a visually oriented person like myself. Too many tarot books skimp on this part – US Games got it right!)

The last section in the book, Qualities of Time, covers the “decans” of the twelve months (the astrological timing method where each month is divided into three sections of ten days each). The Order of the Golden Dawn created a system of attaching a connection between astrology and tarot and the authors explain this and provide interpretations for each decan and card correspondence in a manner that even the astrology novice can comprehend. They also offer advice that helps you to live in harmony with the wheel of the year. This section alone is worth the price of the book!

Whether you are a fan of tarot, astrology or simply want to learn more about working with this powerful Pluto transit, I highly recommend that you add this gorgeous book to your tarot library. It has certainly given me a new way of looking at these transformative times – and a new way to work with the tarot. Well done!

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

Would you like to win a FREE copy of this book? Here’s how: pick a tarot card and put your prediction down for the world in 2012 in the comment section below. I will randomly draw a winner on Sunday February 5th at 5:30PM CST and announce them here! Deadline to enter: Sunday February 5th at 5PM CST.

Talkin’ Tarot With Amethyst Mahoney

Theresa Reed — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 14:49:43 +0000

Talkin’ Tarot With is a monthly feature designed to introduce my readers to different tarot readers from our wonderfully diverse community! Each month, I’ll be asking various tarot readers 3 questions about their tarot philosophy and style, plus pointing you to their websites and blogs so that you can learn more about them! I like to hand pick tarot readers that I feel are talented and interesting.

They say that like attracts like. And I happen to like Amethyst Mahoney very much. In my opinion, Amethyst is a rare gem (yes, that pun was intentional) in the tarot world. She’s spiritual but also very business like. And that is a combo that I find appealing.

I’ve gotten to know her over the last year and I have to admit that her enthusiasm and passion for both tarot and business is extremely contagious. These are two subjects that are near and dear to my heart – to find a kindred spirit who loves both equally is a happy thing.

Amethyst is always hard at work coming up with innovative ideas – from ebooks and videos, to business consulting and specials like her recent Valentines Day Giveaway, this is one tireless gal! I always thought I worked hard but with all the recent goodies that Amethyst has brewing, I think I need to take my own work up a notch!

Amethyst Mahoney has been reading the Tarot ever since a Ride-Waite-Smith deck found her over 22 years ago. She has been reading professionally and teaching others to read Tarot for over 7 years. Amethyst recently fulfilled a life-long dream by completing her book and video series “Tarot Through Your Life.”

Amethyst also uses Tarot and other techniques to teach people to find their passions and create their own businesses – while having FUN! You can find her at www.AmethystTarot.com and www.AmethystMahoney.com or somewhere out in the forests with her husband Brent and her two dogs in beautiful Oregon, USA.

Check out her answers to my questions:

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1. What is your philosophy about tarot reading?

Tarot is a very practical tool, and you can use it every day. I do a Mind, Body, Spirit Spread most days of the week. Each month I also choose a theme to focus on. Of course in February, I’ll be exploring my Love Relationship with my wonderful husband Brent.

There are a lot of misconceptions and myths about Tarot out there, and many of them make me cringe. First of all, Tarot isn’t just about “predicting the future” and doing Past, Present, and Future spreads like you see in the movies and television shows. It can give you information about what is most likely to happen if you continue on your current path. However, the cards do not determine your future – you do.

I also believe that everyone can learn to read Tarot for themselves. I have been teaching people to start reading in classes, workshops, and even with my free online video called “Tarot is for Everyone” (link is http://www.AmethystMahoney.com/tarot-is-for-everyone). You can start reading in less than 15 minutes, even if you’ve never picked up a deck before in your life.

Finding a community to explore Tarot is a great way to improve reading for yourself, and you will find tips if you decide to start reading for others. I absolutely love the Facebook Group started by Louise Underhill called Tarotholics Anonymous. You can get so much great – and real – information about Tarot and dispel all of the silly myths that are keeping you from reading the cards.

2. How do you feel a client might get the most out of a reading with you?

Tarot is not all about being esoteric and airy-fairy. During your reading, we may discuss important issues such as religion and spirituality, work with your Guides or Angels, and many Metaphysical topics, if those things are important to you. However, you should expect to also discuss what that means for your every day life – in this plane and in the physical body you now occupy. This means we may touch on matters dealing with childhood issues, current or past relationships, your current job or work, and even your diet and exercise programs. I was a mental health therapist (in psychology) for over a decade, so I draw a little from that background at times.

Most importantly, be prepared to explore real-world steps that you can take after your reading to improve your life, because that is the True Power of Tarot. If you get a reading, and say, “oh, that was cool!” and then do nothing with the information to improve your life, you’ve just wasted your money and your time. If you take just one action based on your reading, your whole life will start to shift in a more positive direction. You can start to create the future you WANT. Think of it as the Law of Attraction, if you like. After all, you can’t have the Law of AttrACTION without action!

Clients will get the most out of readings when they participate at least a little. I’ve had many people over the years try to “test” me by not giving me information or the real reason for their visit. The truth always comes out – you can’t hide it from the Tarot. Make it easier on both of us and be as upfront and honest as you are comfortable with being. I understand that it can be difficult to open up to a stranger about hard issues, and that’s okay. But your reading is a time to explore YOU, not to find out whether or not I can pass a test (because I can).

3. What is your best piece of advice for an aspiring tarot reader?

Read and learn as much as you can from different readers and Tarot authors. Take classes, watch videos, and attend workshops. You can find my book and video series “Tarot Through Your Life,” at http://www.tarotyourlife.com, and I also have free videos, ebooks, and information available at my website. In fact, when you go to my site you can get an ebook I wrote called “A Beginner’s Guide to Reading Tarot and Learning the Cards.” This will give you great information on everything from finding your first deck to an amazing exercise that you can do that will put you light-years ahead of people who have been trying to figure out their cards for years!

After you’ve learned as much as you can and really immersed yourself in all the knowledge available, throw it all out the window and find your own way! Okay, keep what works for you, but throw the rest out. The truth is there are no “rules” for Tarot. How you do it IS the “correct” way.

I was afraid of finding my own meanings in the cards for several years, and treated the little white book that came with my deck like it was my Bible (I was raised fundamentalist Southern Baptist, by the way). When I finally found Mary K. Greer’s “21 Ways to Read a Tarot Card,” my whole world changed. I finally had permission to explore the cards and allow more meanings to come through.

Above all, have Fun! Over time, you will develop your own style of reading and getting meanings from the cards that is unique to you, and that is a beautiful thing.

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Many thanks to Amethyst for taking time out of her life to visit with me! You can find her at Amethyst Tarot or Amethyst Mahoney.

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com

The Deck and Book Nook – Woodland Wisdom Oracle

Theresa Reed — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 22:04:04 +0000

Do you believe in fairies? Even if you don’t, you might just find yourself enchanted with the Woodland Wisdom Oracle Cards from Rev. Frances Munro and artist Peter Pracownik (US Games ISBN 978-1-57281-691-6).

Rev. Frances Munro is a channeler and her guide directed her in choosing each character in this deck as well as the interpretations. Her guide also helped her select the right artist: fantasy artist Peter Pracownik is an incredible talent and the perfect person to bring these characters to life. The images are breathtaking with beautiful details and lush colors. (Obviously, her guide has pretty good taste!)

This sweet little deck consists of 29 cards. Twenty four of these cards are green “Working Wisdom Cards” and the rest are “Gold Power Cards”. The cards are big and printed on good, firm cardstock. Although the deck is larger than a standard one, the smooth finish and sturdiness make them a breeze to shuffle.

The back of the card has a reversible circle image with mushrooms and fireflies on a pea green background. The deck also comes with a little white book, which contains instructions for working with the cards and interpretations.

Unlike a traditional tarot deck, Woodland Wisdom is one to use when you are seeking guidance on an issue. The method is simple: separate the green and gold cards. Shuffle the green ones and focus on your problem. Put the cards facedown and choose three with your left hand. Then shuffle the gold cards but only pick one.

The first three represent past concerns, what is going on now, and what you should be doing in the future. The single gold card brings “greater awareness of the power you have within”.

Using the instructions, I focused on a situation that was concerning me. I got: Foxglove Fairy, Grass Fairy, Leprechaun and my gold card was the Fairy Princess of Winter Flowers.

The interpretation: “There are many things around you that you do not understand. You are aware of a need to move on in your life but you don’t know how. Feel the power that is inside you waken your senses and stir your values. It is time to lift that unwelcome weight so that you can see that there is a joyful way forward. Realize now that this is the right time for you to move on, for you have exhausted the pathway that you have already trodden.” This fit my scenario to a T and was advice that I took to heart.

I would recommend this deck to anyone who enjoys working with oracle decks as well as those who are looking for a simple tool for personal development. This is also a great deck for people who love fairies and will no doubt delight young and old alike.

Blessings!

Theresa

http://www.thetarotlady.com