One of my favorite spreads
is known as The Life Spiral. In the following example spread, I helped a client clarify a situation in his life regarding his career.
THE QUESTION:
My client, Sam, had recently relocated to a new state, New Jersey, in order to take a job, and that job wasn't meeting his expectations. He was frustrated, both with the company and the environment of his new home. He asked, "Would it benefit me to seek a new employment situation in yet another state?"
THE SPREAD, INTERPRETATION & SUMMARY
You can see the spread on the left side of your screen.
Here is the card by card interpretation:
First card: The self, where you are now.
The Lovers: Sam is seeking a place in life where he feels not only balanced but also complete. Where all parts of his soul are nourished. He would like not only to love his work but also his environment.
Second card: present influence or significance of the reading
Knight of Cups: Sam's situation is set to change for the better and on a subconscious level he already knows this. This card signifies a proposal or invitation coming his way which would suit his needs very nicely. Something that is destined.
Third card: Unconscious part of self; forgotten memories
Three of Wands: This card shows growth and expansion in business. Success. Sam knew his stop in New Jersey was only temporary and now he is being reminded of that. He has done what he set out to do here.
Fourth card: what you are becoming aware of
The World: The World is working in harmony with the previous card. Sam is becoming aware that his time left in New Jersey is limited. This cycle in his life has been completed in a most satisfactory manner and now the gates are wide open for a new adventure to begin.
Fifth card: What you need for fulfillment
Five of Wands: This is a card of competition although sometimes mockingly. Sam needs to remember that he must always be challenged. He doesn't like things in life to just be handed to him. It would be wise when considering relocation and employment options that he remember to fulfill his need to be mentally stimulated and challenged.
Sixth card: What you believe you need or expect to happen
Justice: Sam expects everything to turn out exactly how he needs it. This will happen if he approaches everything in a very balanced manner using not only his heart but also his head. If something is not quite how he expected it Justice leaves room for negotiation.
Seventh card: Help along the way; a person or positive attributes of the Self
Ten of Pentacles: This is a card of family influences. Sam would be wise to look to an elder or someone he respects for guidance. There may also be support from either his immediate family or those he considers to be family.
Eighth card: What is hindering you
The Devil: Light will be thrown on an area of Sam's life that is binding him to his present situation. The Devil is about facing our fears and what holds us back. He needs to evaluate his life and figure out where to face his fears. Due to the nature of the reading I would understand this card to be representing money concerns as a relocation could rock the boat in that area. It's all about what is truly important to Sam and what is only an illusion.
Ninth card: Where the situation is leading and how you will deal with it
Six of Wands: Through hard work and persistence this card shows sweet victory. Everything Sam has worked for should come to pass. There shall be rewards in what Sam is seeking.
Tenth card: the Outcome
Queen of Wands: This Queen shows success and reward. Recognition and respect shall be earned as they come through the hard work that has already been given. A possible rise in status.