February's newsletter features considerations you should be aware of when reading for those caught up in relationship challenges. Most of our readings involve love relationships and often our clients expect us, the reader, to solve their issues. Such a responsibility demands a careful approach.

On some level the client knows the answer yet is unable to accept it. They look to the reader to verify their decisions.

Are you asking the right questions of your client? Can you keep from giving "advice"? 

A Spiritual Counselor’s Thoughts on Valentine's Day. . .

As tarot readers, we often assume the role of counselor for our lovelorn, who wonder why their once blissful romance has turned sour. As readers, we should be aware of the many physical, emotional and mental stresses, both good and bad, that appear when couples unite and desire to form long term relationships. We should also remember our ethical boundaries and non-judgment in providing comfort, clarity and proactive measures.

Have you ever watched old movies and wondered how women survived within such limited expectations? Do you have regrets about your own past? Such introspection is important to monitor and balance your own attitudes and philosophy of life. Have you noticed that on "good days"’ your readings may be brighter or more positive? As wise readers we often cull from our own experiences, beliefs and training. As our younger generation faces more choices we must also keep up with newer trends in societal expectations and allow for wider lifestyle choices.

As Valentine's Day rolls around, we also have to keep in mind that romantic love, a physical, mental and emotional condition, is heightened by the amphetamine-like chemical phenylethlamine, which functions as an aphrodisiac. Phenylethlamine is released in the presence of a new partner and explains the superhuman feelings that overcome a lover who may experience a sustained high for weeks or months before the chemical dissipates. Anthropologists tell us that women are especially affected and may remain in this state for up to four years. As with any chemical, once it is gone, couples are faced with the difficult challenge of maintaining a relationship with their own brain chemistry. This can create quite a struggle for many couples. Some individuals constantly seek the "love high" believing it to be a natural love experience and require more and more partners to maintain that feeling.

Counselors often wonder why engaged couples put so much thought into their wedding planning and leave relationship planning until after the ceremony, since Cinderella stories often end with the marriage. Often I find that women, especially, often fail to realize how unprepared and immature they may be when they unite with their loved one. Exploring some of these areas during a reading can provide new avenues for fulfilling desires and goals that may be lurking in the unconscious mind of the querent. Remember, we do not tell a querent what to do, only gently suggest and explore alternatives.

Successful readings leave the querent empowered.

The Lover’s Path Tarot Deck & Book
by Kris Waldherr

This set has been very helpful as a comprehensive tool for examining relationships and suggesting ways to resolve issues between two people. The beautifully illustrated deck, book and spread sheets are arranged in a lovely red keepsake box. The author has also designed the instructional book for couples who are interested in deepening their knowledge of each other, determining their compatibility and ways to keep their love alive. Illustrated stories of famous lovers are described and their relationships are woven into the cards. Perhaps deeper meanings for those seeking love advice may be obtained.

Beginners will find all that they need to approach a comprehensive reading from a step-by-step introduction to tarot reading, spreads, worksheets, and notebooks for logging progress as a reader as well as developing a deeper understanding of one’s partner.

The author suggests that in reading for two, a relationship framework for arranging the Major Arcana should be three rows of seven cards, minus the fool. Cards one through seven represent ordinary problems that occur in daily relationships, cards eight through fifteen represent the inward work of spiritual development and the remaining cards join the couple with the archetype forces. The card reference guide at the back of the book provides an illustrated shortened explanation of each card and the four suits.

As an experienced reader, I find the Lovers’ Tarot to be a great resource for those sticky relationship readings. My querant's also enjoy the experience of having such beautiful cards, book and spread scroll.

All Love Relationships Mirror Our Relationships with Ourselves.

The Lovers Path Tarot Set - www.loverspath.com
Written and Illustrated by Kris Waldherr
U.S.Games Systems, Inc. http://www.usgamesinc.com