Kate McHardy - page 3

Being safe is easy, we just need to take a swift look around to see that most people find it easier to do what everyone else is doing. Short term maybe.  Long term? I don’t think so.  Short term gratification never supercedes long term satisfaction. However, fear is a powerful motivator and it takes courage to stand up to it and let it crumble.

When people feel afraid, they wedge themselves into a comfort zone.

When fear sets in people wonder who or what can they turn to. Spouse? Family? Children? Alcohol? Anger? 

When fear takes hold, we turn to something that seems to offer safety. But, instead of finding a comfort zone this is the time we need to turn inward and seek out our own power, our sovereignty, our inner light. And find others who are doing the same.

The boat becomes a symbol of safety, security and comfort. We all have one and for sure, it plays a part in the process of life by providing a safe place to lick our wounds, recalibrate, recharge and get ready to set off again. But not when it becomes a refuge from taking responsibility for your role in life and living out the purpose you were put here for. Then it becomes a grave! What is your boat? 

If you want to know what your boat is just listen to your inner voice of worry. Your boat is your comfort zone where you feel safe but it is not actually protecting you from anything. Fear is what keeps us in the comfort zone but fear of what?  Fear of speaking your truth and living the best version of yourself. Fear of failure? Fear of ridicule? Fear of what others might think? Fear of not being enough. Fear of your own inner light? Your power?

Anyone can stay in a comfort zone and, sadly, most people do but what we tend to forget is that when we have the courage to believe in ourselves and step out of the comfort zone the Universe conspires in our favour and moves us forwards in ways we could never imagine.  Or, as Paolo Coelho said, “And when you want something, all the Universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” 

When you are called to leave the boat, your perceived sense of safety is threatened. It is scary and we can talk ourselves into all sorts of reasons to stay in the comfort zone. Fear versus love and we all understand the power of fear these days more than ever.  But remember your boat is what is keeping you from shining your light and becoming the best version of yourself you can possibly be. 

During this current period of immense transformation such as the world has never experienced before, it seems more important than ever, that as individuals, and in groups, we decide to ‘step out of our boats and walk on the water’ as it says in the bible.  I find the metaphorical nature of the bible stories to be a very beautiful and accessible means of helping me understand and navigate everyday life. 

Step out of your fear and into your power.  Identify what you will most definitely regret if you stay in the boat. The thoughts and dreams that keep coming back to you are your callings. Are you prepared to hide from them rather than be the one who is prepared to be different? Be prepared to speak your truth, risk losing some people (that need losing) and finding others who are also prepared to speak their truth and pursue their dreams is essential at this time. We need to let go of people, places and things in order to create the space for the new to enter. And remember the power of five – that we become the average of the five people that we spend most time with. So, take a few minutes to identify just who those five are.  They include those you interact with on any medium, in person or otherwise, and also maybe a teacher you are studying etc.  The key thing is to be the one in the middle in terms of your aspirations. You have two to aspire to and two who aspire to you. Be honest with yourself about your five as they will literally keep you in the boat or help you to step out of it 

Don’t ever be afraid to go out on a limb, to be different. It is tough, no one ever said it was going to be easy but, hanging on in there in the boat, the comfort zone, with people who do not have the courage to step into their power is a much more dangerous place to be than out dealing with the storms of life alongside those who know that standing together in their light is the way to come through those storms. Whether you are a follower or a leader doesn’t matter, what matters is that we each take responsibility for striving to be that best version of ourselves that we can be and supporting others to do the same.  Be in someone else’s power of five and keep it growing and evolving. Allow your fear to transmute into love and remember that Love is Letting Go of Fear (Jampolsky 1979).    

Fear paralyses our vision and as Helen Keller said, ‘having sight but no vision’ is a fate far worse than being born blind. 

As we are liberated from our own fear our presence so liberates others. So, ask yourself, who are you to not shine your light and thus inspire others to do the same?

Kate Mchardy MA(Hons) PGCE MSPH Spiritual coach, teacher and healer. katemch@gmail.com / Tel: +44 7712889534. Facebook: The University of Light Group / Readings at The University of Light (@tarotangelspiritreadings). 

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

Education is high on your agenda this month, Aries. It is likely to be a course you have already started and taken a break from or a course that you have been thinking about for some time. Either way, go for it!

TAURUS Apr 21 – May 21) 

Great rewards come to those who stand firm and are prepared to stand out from the crowd, Taurus. It is likely that you’ll be tested in this way but you have the self- confidence and self- respect to do so …. and you’ll be rewarded indeed,

GEMINI (May 22 – Jun 22) 

As we move into Spring and new life appears all around us, we feel the energies of the planet changing also.  The planet is moving forward into a more spiritually based epoch with materialism losing its grip. Ponder on this awhile, Gemini, and see where it takes you. 

CANCER (Jun 23 – Jul 22)

Your success is assured this month, Cancer, as long as you are prepared to take a fairly big risk! Your mental and emotional response to the outcome will  serve as a blueprint for you in the future. So do not doubt yourself and you’ll grow in faith exponentially. 

LEO (Jul 23 – Aug 23) 

An old friend turns up out of the blue, Leo and takes you by surprise. Trips down memory lane can be both healing and enlightening and this one will be both. It’ll also answer a question which has long made you curious.  

VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sep 23)

An old chestnut that you thought you had dealt with pops up again this month, Virgo. So frustrating but it happens.  The good news is that it means that you are making great progress and just need to let go of the last residues of the things that hold you back. 

LIBRA (Sep 24 – Oct 23) 

Make sure that you have put the finishing touches to your plan, so far, Libra.   It is worth taking a final raincheck before plunging in. You have past experiences to learn from and use to refine your plans and you have now to create the bright future you desire.

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22) 

You have been banging your head against a brick wall recently trying to figure out the answer to something, haven’t you Scorpio?  Now, stand back and allow the Universe to step in and you’ll find the answer lands right in front of you.  The Universe always knows best!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21) 

A short trip is in order this month, Sagittarius. You know that you have been yearning to do this for a while so give yourself permission and just do it.  If a friend cannot make it this time, then you bite the bullet and go on your own.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20) 

It is easy for you to feel overwhelmed at this time, Capricorn and slightly difficult to be clear on your best path forward. But the truth is that you can start anywhere to heal the fear and confusion. Do not underestimate the power of intention and kind words.  

AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19) 

This is a good month for you to take some time out to recharge and recalibrate, Aquarius. Make the time for yourself to do this as not only will you benefit but so will everyone else you come into contact with. 

PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20) 

You’ll be called upon to stay strong for someone else this month, Pisces. So, listen to your gut instinct and quietly but firmly speak your truth. It is not always easy to do this but so often this is the way.

We have all experienced bereavement in one way or another. Bereavement and loss are a part of life, of the human condition. Bereavement takes many forms from the loss of a parent in childhood, to the loss of a child, a sibling, a grandparent, a beloved pet.

The dictionary defines bereavement as “to be robbed” or “deprived of something valuable” and is commonly used in relation to the death of a significant person in our life.  Grieving refers to the psychological components of bereavement, referring to the feelings evoked by a significant loss, especially the suffering involved when a loved one dies.

Since Sigmund Freud, grieving and mourning have been conceived as the process through which the bereaved person adjusts to the reality of their loss, enabling them to disengage from the deceased and invest in new relationships. 

While death and dying are, for many people, the ultimate trauma, people can experience similar emotional upset when dealing with many of life’s challenges, especially if confronted with something for the first time. 

Over the recent two years we, as a people, have experienced loss in new ways. We have lost the world as we have known it all our lives. Even when things settle down and the road forward is clearer, I think we all know that we can never go back.  But the good news is that we can go forward. 

I feel that it is essential to update the understanding of loss and bereavement in the current climate.  Has it fundamentally changed or do we just need to expand the understanding of the experience? To perhaps redefine the actual meaning to encompass differing experiences of loss while retaining the core. 

In order to enable this, I think we need to have a better understanding of the theory of grief and this necessitates understanding more about yourself and others. 

As human beings we are vulnerable. Vulnerability is part of our makeup. It is a condition of our existence and the tragedies we experience are the revelations of that vulnerability. If there was no vulnerability there would be no tragedy and thus no experience of loss and bereavement. 

Child psychologist John Bowlby argued that we form attachments early in life and these offer us security and survival. So, when these attachments are broken or lost, individuals experience distress and emotional disturbances such as anxiety, rage, anger, feelings of desolation and extreme vulnerability. It was Bowlby who identified the four phases of ‘mourning’:

1. Numbing  

2. Yearning and Searching               

3. Disorganisation  

4. Reorganisation.

When tragedy strikes it can be so overwhelming that the mind can go numb. This is also known as cognitive dissonance – just impossible to comprehend the reality of what has happened. This is then followed by periods of yearning for what or who has been lost and the mind will search for ways of averting the reality. Then comes the period of disorganisation when nothing seems to fit and it is impossible to find sense or continuity.  Finally come the steps to reorganise life in a new way without the person or situation that is no longer part of it.

Looking at it this way highlights the fact that actual physical death is not always the cause of bereavement but death of a relationship or a job or a way of life can have equally devastating effects. It is important also to be clear that there can be degrees of bereavement too.  Losing one’s home and way of life may be less devastating than losing a child or way of life but that is not to deny that it is still a form of bereavement. As human beings, we tend to downplay certain traumas as ‘not as important’ as we feel it would be disrespectful to someone whose grief is of a more brutal nature than ours. But I do feel that it is important to acknowledge whatever has happened on whatever level we feel it in order to process and let go.  Only thus do we move on. 

The word ‘trauma’ is very much in vogue at the moment and, up to a point, quite rightly so.  Everyone experiences trauma in their early lives and, historically, it has not been recognised just how much damage unacknowledged trauma can do. And so, for an adult to function on a healthy level mentally and emotionally, it is essential that these dark areas are explored, addressed and put to rest. Otherwise, they will simply keep popping up to remind you of the fact that they happened and to destroy the quality of life in all sorts of subtle and not so subtle ways.  Of course, the overuse of the word ‘trauma’ must be monitored so as not to become an excuse for not taking personal responsibility. But that is another subject.  

So, what do we do and how do we apply these understanding to go forward with our lives in the current situation?

First of all, be honest with yourself about how you feel about what has happened, whatever it is, and make the decision to not allow it to interfere with your wonderful future. Writing things down and re reading as though having a conversation with the damaged part of yourself can be hugely therapeutic. Then allow your mind to bring forth the good things that can now flow through and make a pledge to respect yourself and to not judge. Yourself or others. 

Loss and bereavement can be expressed in various ways and we are each so individual.  When you promise yourself to love and acknowledgement in this way then the Universe will move in unexpected ways to help you become the best version of yourself that you can be. 

Kate Mchardy MA(Hons) PGCE MSPH Spiritual coach, teacher and healer. katemch@gmail.com / Tel: +44 7712889534. Facebook: The University of Light Group / Readings at The University of Light (@tarotangelspiritreadings). 

According to Chinese Astrology, each year corresponds to one of twelve animals  (Rat. Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Pig) and this cycle repeats every twelve years. The Chinese base their New Year celebration on the lunar calendar instead of the solar one that is used in the east. Therefore, people who follow the solar calendar always celebrate New Year on January 1st. But the Chinese New Year depends on the moon.  Usually it is celebrated in February, but the exact date does vary from year to year depending on the phases of the moon’s cycle. This year it happens to be on February 1st. 

The most recent Tiger Years are 1938 1950 1962 1974 1986 1998 2010 2022 and so this year, of 2022, is The Year of the Tiger.

Tigers are known to be brave, to value their independence and to have a strong sense of justice. Sometimes they can be silent but deadly.  

Tiger has very powerful energy and so in a Tiger year we can expect volatility in our relationships.  Of course, we can also expect to find our inner strength and, like Tiger, find ourselves standing our ground and even seeing off those who do not respect or play fair with us.

Tiger energy is also good for learning, for travel and for education. This could involve undertaking a new training which could link to travel with your job or even a change of job.  

This is naturally a perfect year for Tiger people to engage on a deeper journey of personal and spiritual development. This is always the case for the animal celebrating its own Chinese Year 

According to the Chinese horoscope, 2022 is the year of water Tiger, which would suggest a year of all types of extremes. Chinese zodiac animal signs are grouped in six pairs according to the balance between yin and yang. Each of these groupings is associated with one of six destiny aspects known as Houses. These Houses influence the overall characteristics of the time period in which the animal sign rules.

The second House is the House of expansion, which is associated with the Tiger and the Rabbit (sometimes known as Cat). In the year of the Tiger there is likely to be expansion through aggression and conflict in the world and in the year of the Rabbit there will be expansion through diplomacy and talks usually to repair the damage caused by the Tiger’s aggression.    

In life and love, the Tiger is the epitome of grandness. Tiger is a loyal and fierce protector of those he loves or who may be entrusted into his care. Tiger is a leader, logical and determined and successful in helping others to become the best versions of themselves they can be. 

The animal energy of the year affects everyone. In this Year of the Tiger, 2022, many people will develop strong self-confidence and overcome fear which may have been gripping them. They will find themselves easily overcoming even deeply ingrained fears and taking risks they never thought possible. 

Because 2022 is the Year of the Water Tiger, there will be abundance available and coming to those who trust. Water amplifies the vital force, health and the very essence of the Tiger spirit. However, Water Tiger is discreet and does not like to stand out.  Instead, it always trusts its instincts. 

Under the influence of Tiger energy, we can all take risks with the confidence that we won’t fail and that, in fact, both romantically and financially, success is assured. 

It is a known fact that first impressions count so grab the opportunity to engage with Tiger’s enthusiasm or miss out, for the water Tiger has webbed feet that enable him to ride the rapids and negotiate the challenges with no time to spare for looking back or to pick up straddlers.

Tiger energy means that this is a year of opportunities coming your way and you really mustn’t miss them. Tigers do not procrastinate nor do they suffer fools gladly. Remember that opportunities rarely present themselves twice.

Tiger represents the direction of Northeast and the month of February and both of these aspects support new beginnings. The northeast is where the sun begins its journey of the new day and although it is not yet showing above the horizon the adventure of the new day has begun.

The month of February marks the beginning of spring in the Chinese calendar and is also the month of the Tiger, bringing a double impact of the Tigers energy with which to launch our intentions for the coming Year.

The northeast is where the leader of the year sits thus highlighting the importance of respecting this area of your property. To block the northeast with heavy furniture or a cluttered garage, for example, will be to prevent your projects taking off. Construction and buildings extensions in the northeast also need careful consideration for to break the ground and disturb the leader is to curtail any progress the project may have made. The best policy is to keep the area light and bright, well maintained and fit for a king.

Tiger energy is awesome and I think all of us can recognise just how much the world needs it right now. So, go forth and enjoy the year and the new and exciting things it brings you, not least of all the more confident, capable and prosperous you!   

Kate Mchardy MA(Hons) PGCE MSPH Spiritual coach, teacher and healer. katemch@gmail.com / Tel: +44 7712889534. Facebook: The University of Light Group / Readings at The University of Light (@tarotangelspiritreadings). 

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

Happiness and good fortune is coming your way this month, Aries! Prepare for this by giving thanks for everything you have already so that you allow all good things into your energy sphere.  Also, take care to communicate graciously with everyone you meet. 

TAURUS Apr 21 – May 21) 

Focus on the present moment. Taurus, as the past has gone and the future is yet to happen. No one is faultless but that is past.  As a light bearer you are carrying the special energy that the planet is in dire need of right now.  Value yourself and what you have to offer. .

GEMINI (May 22 – Jun 22) 

Patience is your key word this month, Gemini. You will be feeling rather ahead of others at this time and this will frustrate you as you can see a certain situation very clearly while others can’t! Steps at a time… they will get there 

CANCER (Jun 23 – Jul 22)

ou are being guided to follow your instinct this month, Cancer. You may feel that you are striving to maintain a sense of balance and so get a sharper perspective on an issue. This will bring you peace and allow to be your best self. 

LEO (Jul 23 – Aug 23) 

There are always several different ways to solve a problem, Leo, and this month you are being called upon to be creative in your thinking processes. Be inquisitive and you’ll come up with all sorts of ideas. Persevere and you will inevitably receive a fine reward. 

VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sep 23)

Trust can be difficult sometimes. Virgo, particularly if you have had a bad experience.  Recently, you have had a tendency to have a protective wall around you most of the time but it is time to begin to come out from behind it as, while it can protect your sensitive side, it also keeps out the positive. 

LIBRA (Sep 24 – Oct 23) 

Focus is important this month, Libra. Get clear on your heart’s desire, set your vision and ask the Universe that it comes your way with the highest and best result for all concerned. Then be prepared by being calm and patient while focusing on it intently.  

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22) 

You are advised to regain control of a situation or area of your life, Scorpio. You can start to do this by paying attention to your breath. When you focus on breathing naturally you connect consciously to the energy of the planets which always move in perfect harmony.  

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21) 

If you feel misunderstood this month, Sagittarius, don’t let it dim your light. At this time there is much disharmony on the planet and many people seek to put out the light in others. Remain true to your purpose and hold your vision like a bright flame.  

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20) 

You must prepare for change this month, Capricorn. A sudden change may catch you unawares but will have an unexpectedly positive outcome if you examine your intentions and make clear ones for the highest good of all.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19) 

This month your stars are aligned in the way of the peaceful warrior, Aquarius.  That is the energy of a well balanced and compassionate leader. You will be called to support someone more vulnerable than yourself and you will be able to uphold justice and equality in their favour. 

PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20) 

Courageously seize an opportunity that presents to you, Pisces. You are a visionary and you have powerful clarity and awareness at this time. View a situation from an enlightened perspective and remain motivated so that you can take action immediately. 

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

2022 is going to be a period when you can make sweeping changes, Aries.  All the things you were itching to get on with in 2021 can and will be addressed and achieved!   This energy encompasses all areas of your life from career to finances, from love to health.  Remember to maintain your sense of self-worth and self-esteem at all times and do not allow your ego to overrule your instinct. Trust your inner voice and meditate for a few minutes each day on the gifts, talent and wisdom that is held in your soul. The time has come for you to share your unique gifts with the world and trust that the Universe will guide you to the correct connections. As the energy on the planet shifts over the coming year, your new path will be much in demand for the heart-based energy which is on its way.

TAURUS Apr 21 – May 21)  

You don’t tend to suffer fools gladly, Taurus, and the early part of 2022 is likely to find you having to curb your need to speak out about things that frustrate and upset you. Take care also with your thoughts and actions, making sure that they are pure, light and loving. Listening to music will help to soothe your soul giving you much needed patience and as the year moves on into the summer months you will be feeling much more in harmony with those around you and with nature in general. 2022 is the year for you to truly identify your passion and to live it. By doing this you will know that your contribution is helping the entire universe to align in perfect divine order. Do not allow your ego to tell you that your efforts are insignificant but trust, with your heart, that they are recognised and appreciated by the higher energies and by those who really count. 

GEMINI (May 22 – Jun 22) 

2022 is your year to work on your sense of self-worth and self-esteem, Gemini.  This way you can step into your inner power and really contribute to the world in ways that you have only dreamed of. You must take the time to develop yourself on a spiritual level, and remember that you do not have to prove yourself to anyone. Meditate for a few minutes each day on the gifts, talents and wisdom held in your soul and then ask your higher self for them to be made available to you for your highest good. Many people have been experiencing much confusion over this last 12 months and you have very special gifts which can help to reassure and bring calm to difficult situations.  On another note, it would be wise for you to take some later in the year to do an assessment of your financial situation. No problem, just precaution.   

CANCER (Jun 23 – Jul 22)

You may feel like you are going through an initiation during 2022, Cancer. Indeed, you probably are and while it may feel too much at times, remember that your soul chose its mission and you will learn great patience and forbearance as you complete these tests and raise your vibrations to a much higher spiritual level. As the year progresses you will find it easier to relax and keep your heart open. Use all your experiences to strengthen yourself and everything will feel worthwhile. Family relationships may become a little strained as the Christmas season approaches but your newly developed skills and understanding will pave the way to harmony. Make sure to take time this year to do some deep self -care and to give to yourself in the same way that you so selflessly give to others.  

LEO (Jul 23 – Aug 23) 

The energy of 2022 is calling upon you to work a little more on understanding others’ needs, Leo, and also improving your listening skills and personal interaction. This will help you to plant seeds of light within your immediate family and social circle.  Your professional contacts may a little more difficult as they may not be comfortable with a new, more confident you and you will simply need to be patient. When you feel the need to centre yourself, then work with your breath. Focusing on slowly releasing the outbreath is a wonderful way to centre and ground yourself. There may well be a new addition to the family in springtime and also cause for celebration around the time of your birthday which will mean a double celebration.  An opportunity for overseas travel will present itself… Much to your delight. 

VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sep 23)

You are going to be drawn to education throughout 2022, Virgo, mainly because you have a deep desire for more excitement in your life and to engage in more meaningful ways with others. This may well disrupt your natural preference for order and organisation but, in fact, this diversion from the norm will have the great benefit of helping you to see things from a different perspective and find solutions to some the things that constantly challenge you. As the year progresses you will find yourself following through with things that you have avoided till now.  Like an online course or extra professional training.  In other words, you’ll stop playing safe and allow yourself to blossom. Those of you looking for a relationship can definitely find the perfect partner but you may have to make the first move!

LIBRA (Sep 24 – Oct 23) 

You are about to be presented with some amazing opportunities this year, Libra, and you are being guided to seize them courageously.  Make no mistake, this will take all the courage you can muster but you must believe in yourself and know that you are up to the challenge. All the lessons and learnings of recent years will come together and you’ll be able to connect different threads of your life in ways that you have been unable to up till now. By mid-summer, you will be motivated and ready for action and as summer becomes autumn you will be ready for action! You will move fearlessly and tenaciously and be ready to treat setbacks and obstacles as opportunities to raise your game. Remember to always remain calm and centred no matter what and this way you will always stand in your power.  People will be drawn to your energy and will respect and honour you for your vision. 

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22) 

ou have experienced a lot since this time last year, Scorpio, and during 2022 you will be yearning for freedom and independence. You are more in touch with your innate wisdom than before and while that may have involved dealing with rocky patches and highs and lows you are now able to see things from a higher perspective. So, this is a good period for you to look at the challenges and issues in your life from a higher perspective and, in so doing, you will naturally gravitate to helping others to do the same.  This will bring you more satisfaction and sense of self worth than you could have imagined and, as the year progresses, you will realise that you are well on track with your life purpose. As the year draws to a close you will be in a calm and confident frame of mind, feeling positive and looking forward to the next chapter.  

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21) 

It may be that you felt the need to have a strong protective shell around you and your loved over the last year, Sagittarius, and this was no bad thing. In the uncertain times we have been experiencing on our planet, it is essential to have a safe network and a place of safety.  We need this to stay balanced and keep our batteries charged. Having done this, you are now ready to relax that protective shell a little and place a protective light around yourself instead.  This way you keep negativity at bay while also allowing the good to enter your sacred space. In 2022, you are being guided to focus on abundance consciousness.  Call in love, prosperity, happiness, joy and all manner of good things.  Be sure, at the same time, to be visioning the whole planet receiving the stream of bounty also.  

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20) 

You will emerge for your self-imposed cocoon this year, Capricorn.  In other word you are about to go through a profound transformation. Like a butterfly though, you must not rush this.  The cocoon is where you have been kept safe and secure while learning all the very important lessons and gaining deep knowledge which is going to be so very important in the healing of the world as the transition continues. As we move into summer you will need a phase of relaxation and calm before you spread your wings. Use this period for a life review to help you decide what changes you need to make and to prepare for the process, which is inevitable. By the time summer is giving way to autumn you will be emerging as a different spiritual person. It is essential for you to have gentle exercise and a super healthy diet at this time. 

AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19) 

Be true to yourself at all costs this year, Aquarius. It is always possible to be misunderstood even when you are acting from the best and noblest of intentions.  There are always those who want to extinguish the light in others and it can be a challenge to hold to your inner light and truth.  But we are all on a big spiritual journey at the moment and you have the learning and experience to hold that light and to keep it shining for others to follow and to find their own light in the process. This is truly powerful. Your guidance is to let no one diminish you and, when you come upon challenges, as you will around September/October, simply remain true to yourself and to your purpose. There will be some financial issues requiring your attention towards the end of the year but with the straightforward approach these will be quickly resolved. 

PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20) 

After a busy year of personal growth and gently working with others, you are being guided to relax this year, Pisces.  Be relaxed yet remain independent. Take time to go inside and remind yourself that everything you need to know is already inside you and by surrendering to the divine order of the Universe, you will access this innate wisdom and knowingness. As you do this and the months gently roll by you will become aware that you are raising your frequency and that of all those around you. And this is exactly what the planet needs right now. Later in the year you will be guided to go forth and gather small groups of people to share and possible even build new communities where each is recognised for the uniqueness and individuality.  Where caring and sharing is the order of the day and exclusion simply does not exist. 

Walking in the woods with my dog. It was very quiet, very still and beautiful… misty. I became aware of a crow cawing and, at first, I didn’t think anything of it. Then I realised it was continuing and we were coming closer to it. I stood still and there it was on the very top branch of a tall, tall tree. Cawing out to the world sharing its message and its song. It lasted for at least ten minutes then it flew off. A little later I heard it again from further away. I felt it had touched something very primal and very deep. 

When I got back to the car, I looked up the spiritual significance of crow and I was transfixed. The main message is about transformation, working together and embracing change in a positive way; adaptability, skill sharing and finding solutions. Crow reminds us that “This too shall pass”.

It felt like God had spoken to me as, in fact, I believe he did, through the crow

Nature is awesome and if we take time to stop and listen to the messages from nature that we are being given every day then the quality of life improves immeasurably.  I believe that all of God’s creatures are messengers just going about their business and giving us repeated opportunities to stop and listen.   What a lot we can learn when we slow down and pay attention. 

Animal spirit energy and its meaning has long been a subject of fascination and learning and is, like many esoteric practices, becoming more widely recognised for its healing qualities in helping us navigate and understand our soul journeys.  Never has this been more relevant than in the current period of uncertainty and transformation.  

Crows build their nests high up in tall trees where they have a clear overview of what is going on all around.  They are highly intelligent creatures with great problem-solving skills and the higher they are the clearer their overall vision.    Apparently, they also call out to people who are feeling isolated or misunderstood, connecting souls on the same path and helping them work together on their soul journey. 

It is said that we all have a spirit power animal or guide and it is worth looking up what yours is then building a relationship with it on an energetic level.  As you become more attuned to the world around you and you step away from the 3D requirement to always be busy and in a rush then you will notice just how often creatures cross your path or appear out of the blue.  Remember, they always have a message for you but you need to be open to noticing and receiving. 

Today I was driving along a country road and I noticed a fat cock pheasant on the road directly in my path. He was having a snack and had no intention of moving out of the way to let a car pass by.  So, I waited a little while.  Of course, he just continued and so I reversed and drove around him.  I was chuckling.  On one level I always feel that cock pheasants are a sign that my dad is with me (he died when I was a child) and it is not at all unusual for them to appear.  But this guy today was right in my path and not budging so I felt he had something important to convey to me at this time.

Sure enough he was reminding me that my shine is not as bright as usual.  That I have been feeling dull and drab inside.  So true.   My energy has been low and I have been unwell the last few days. He wanted me to know that my usually sparkling vision is rather muted and that he was returning a rainbow of beauty into my life. Reminding me to take a breather and not to focus so much on the big missions at the expense of missing the everyday miracles. He reminded me that I have gifts for a reason and that God does not grant sparkling spiritual aptitudes on everybody …..  I don’t have to fly the flag for everyone – only the right people. 

He asked me to remind you all to stay true to yourselves, show off your feathers and take a chance.   

So, stop reading now and be still.  Go within and think of a time when you have had an unexpected encounter with an animal.  Allow your mind to bring back the experience ……  what happened and how did it make you feel?  Don’t rush. Animals don’t rush so be in their time frame.  Be patient and live in the now, like they do and when one appears, pay attention, check out the spiritual symbolism and be amazed.

If you don’t keep a journal then now is a great time to start.  The start of a New Year and the energy is fresh.  The world as we knew it is never going to be the same again and it is essential that we are aligned with the 5D energy.  Animals already are and they are at our service to guide us all the way. 

As for the crow…  I sent a photo of him on his branch to a new friend and soulmate and told her what had taken place. It turned out that just before she got my message a crow had appeared to her also.  She loves crows.   A week or so later I was visiting her house and when I popped into the loo there on the wall was the most delightful child’s drawing of a happy fat cock pheasant! Say no more.   

Kate Mchardy MA(Hons) PGCE MSPH Spiritual coach, teacher and healer. katemch@gmail.com / Tel: +44 7712889534. Facebook: The University of Light Group / Readings at The University of Light (@tarotangelspiritreadings). 

We are fast approaching that time of the year again when we are listening for the sound of sleigh-bells, the rustle and crinkle of Christmas paper and the joy of a full and well laid table with our families.

This year, I feel, probably more then any previous years, it would behove us to think deeply about the real and true meaning of Christmas. 

Last year, Christmas was effectively cancelled and the reality of a close, caring and sharing Christmas with our loved ones was denied to many.  And at cruelly short notice.  Of course, we survived, jutted our chins out and displayed a good stiff upper lip, but we missed it all very much and many of us felt isolated and very alone. This year there is an underlying shiver of fear that the same thing may happen again.

How can we reconstruct our experience of Christmas so that those heartfelt and intimate feelings can be strengthened and experienced regardless? Is it possible, to let go of the outside influence of Christmas, as we know it, and allow those needs and feelings to permeate our everyday lives, without being dependent on an increasingly materialistic celebration to tap into that which is most dear to us and express to our loved ones just how important they are?

Our emotional attachments cloud our judgement and so often prevent us from seeking the truth or, even worse, rejecting it.  This applies to many areas of life but in relation to Christmas we can clearly recognise that the rituals associated with it become deeply rooted.  Our memories filled with laughter, joy, warmth and comfort, surrounded by our loved ones. And as we are bombarded with images and messages of the perfect family Christmas, so too does our experience become entrenched in that wholesome, happy presentation so much that even it if is not our direct experience the message is so powerfully reinforced that many can come to hope that if they just take part in the rituals then it will magically become reality.  Too often reality sets in again before the tinsel has had time to fade. 

As the mind is not able to readily distinguish the cause of the joy that we associate with Christmas, the ritual can incorrectly be associated with being the source of the happiness, rather than the loving environment which was created simply by being in the presence of family and friends.

As a Christian celebration, Christmas is celebrating the birth of Christ. A time for Christians to remember and celebrate their master, Jesus Christ. Many will agree that this concept and deeper reason for the ritual has become lost in the passage of time and technology. So, for those of us who feel that the true Spirit of Christmas has long become lost in the material whirlwind of our consumer society, this year could well be the ideal time to change a few things!

For many who are attempting to demonstrate their love for the Lord Jesus by walking in his path and respecting his laws (or ten commandments) Christmas is becoming more and more of a quandary.  On the one hand they are motivated by love and the desire to walk in his footsteps thus finding happiness and peace and on the other hand the very act of doing this means casting aside all that is not ‘of him’. Much of which is falsely associated with happiness. Tricky!  

I think it would be fair to say that we all want the blessings of Heaven and The Light while enjoying the pleasures of Babylon and The Dark.  This seems to be more and more evident with each passing day as we navigate our way through these dark times and try to stay safe and sane. It is a common plight of Christianity that while ascribing to desiring the blessings of Heaven one finds oneself immersed in the ways of Babylon. And, I would suggest that there is perhaps no other time that this is more evident than during this fast-approaching season of Christmas and all that goes with it. 

What can we do to engage in the closeness and joy while unsubscribing from the trinket-based frivolities and shallowness which has become part of it all?

We could possibly start by recognising that both Christians and non-Christians have been celebrating this pagan ritual for centuries. The ancient pagan practice of worshipping the Sun God. Now, it can be argued that this no longer has any bearing on Christmas as we know it today but think on it. Worshipping the Son of God is a simple psychological switch from worshipping the Sun God and so to continue the pagan ritual dressed in a Christian costume. We have simply reassociated. Taken that which was unchristian to its very core (some would say evil) and associated it with the name and birth of Jesus Christ.  

Maybe, though, we can keep the true ethos of Christmas and all the bits we hold dear while recognising that love comes from within and that the Christmas tree and the gift giving is simply a way of expressing that love ……  unconditional love.  We don’t need lavish and unnecessary expressions of this love if we remember the real essence all year round.  Regardless of the season, the tree is evergreen just as our love is everlasting (and Christ is everliving). 

I believe that, during these difficult and uncertain times, we can each find our inner light and heed the call to participate in a time of confidently moving forward in that light. Thus, leading our beautiful world back to its true glory and us back to our true selves. 

Happy Christmas!

Kate Mchardy MA(Hons) PGCE MSPH Spiritual coach, teacher and healer. katemch@gmail.com / Tel: +44 7712889534. Facebook: The University of Light Group / Readings at The University of Light (@tarotangelspiritreadings).

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

This is an excellent time to think of a move to a new home or new job, Aries. The choice will be yours and it will usher in positive energy for you and your loved ones. 

TAURUS Apr 21 – May 21) 

You are in the midst of making an important decision, Taurus, but conditions are not right at the moment so look into other options and ask for assistance from your angels. They love to help.  

GEMINI (May 22 – Jun 22) 

Clear your mind of negativity, Gemini, as it is blocking your progress. Focus on what you are looking to achieve. Think positively and allow yourself to deserve the best. 

CANCER (Jun 23 – Jul 22)

You are being called upon to show compassion, Cancer. You can really help to heal a situation by stepping back and seeing someone else’s point of view.  It’s not about backing down so much as about coming from a different angle. 

LEO (Jul 23 – Aug 23) 

Keep on keeping on Leo and don’t take no for an answer. Avoid distractions and expect miraculous solutions to appear. Believe in yourself and be strong and all will be well. 

VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sep 23)

This is a good time to give birth to new ideas, Virgo, and to create new situations in your life. Dig deep and you will certainly find the courage to break out of your comfort zone and make the changes you need to make. 

LIBRA (Sep 24 – Oct 23) 

If you’ve been feeling down and dejected recently, Libra, then recharge yourself with faith and hope. Something positive is just around the corner. You can’t see it yet but you will. 

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22) 

Pay attention to your intuition and your dreams, Scorpio. There are clear messages in them and you need to follow the steps to find the answer to your prayers. It is there but you must be still and listen.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21) 

Your sense of your own inner light is strong this month, Sagittarius. You’ll find yourself actually feeling lighter in every way and responding to people with a clarity and compassion that you didn’t know you had! 

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20) 

Animals look set to play a role in your life at this time, Capricorn. Whether your own pets or someone else’s, or even animals long gone from this life. A bond will be strengthened bringing a sense of peace. 

 AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19) 

Are you a little worried about a child, Aquarius? Your angels are reminding you that your children are well cared for but it is always a good idea to tell them how loved they are and to send up a little prayer to keep them surrounded in angelic light.

PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20) 

You can relax now Pisces and allow yourself to feel safe. The worst is behind you and you can leave it there, where it belongs. Look forward knowing that you have come a long way and that you are a better and stronger person for it.