October 2012 Snake Oil blog/Jim Ventura

Snake Oil

Enlightenment in the dentists office

My July dental check-up left me with some serious angst that was then followed by some equally powerful illumination. Every four months I get my teeth cleaned. I have always been conscientious about keeping good dental habits. My dentist recently relocated to a nicer office space. His new spot was impressive, but I wondered how he had pulled off a move like this during a recession. My usual dental hygienist wasn’t there for some reason, so a nice, new young lady worked on my teeth. She noticed a spot on two of my upper teeth and suggested it would be best to do some x-rays. She showed me the x-rays and explained that I had two crowns that were cracking and needed to be replaced. She would have the receptionist at the desk give me an estimate on the costs on my way out.

I paid for my cleaning and was given the estimate for the crowns. With my insurance discounts it would be about $1,800 to replace the two crowns. They asked me when I wanted to come in and get them done. I laughed to myself and said I would get back to them in a few months. At best, I would be only able to do one of them every four months. I was even a little suspicious that they “found” the damaged teeth at a time when they had just moved into a more expensive office. Whatever the reason, I left the office with a feeling of heaviness.

As I drove home, I began to get upset. A stream of angry thoughts raced through my mind. “Just when things were improving for me financially I get hit with this crap. Isn’t that always the case. Isn’t this just how life is, as soon as you find yourself getting more prosperous, there always seems to be something else that now needs to be fixed or repaired that inevitably costs a small fortune. How the hell is anyone expected to come up with $1800 for teeth.Neither I or anyone else I know has a change jar with $2000 extra dollars in it for random repairs at this time. I gave up my credit cards two years ago, so how could I possibly pay for this? Life sucks and you can never get ahead. There are always a million things that drag you down in life. No wonder the middle class is getting crushed, how can anyone afford these kinds of things?” I had a steady stream of angry thoughts pouring out of me and it wasn’t the first time I had mentally run a tirade like this. My body was tense as I drove home, and I was more than a little angry.

Amidst my internal rant, I heard another calmer, peaceful thought that came through. How would a wealthy person respond to the same event? I thought about it for a minute and then speculated that a wealthy person might be annoyed about it, but they would probably not go into a tirade of poor me thoughts. They would probably figure, “I need the new crowns, it is a necessary reality and will be a good thing in the long run.” I wasn’t thinking like a wealthy person would and it was no wonder that I was exactly where I was financially. I almost always reacted this way to anything that I saw as “expensive.”

Then another even more enlightened thought followed. How would a spiritually evolved person react to this event? How would a spiritual person who was at peace around issues connected with money and also living a prosperous life respond? I thought about this for a minute and figured that they would trust the Universe to take care of this. They would think the money needed will be there, because this is something that simply needs to be done. I realized I always get exactly what I need. It will be fun and interesting to see how the Universe will provide this for me, and I know it will provide. I am always taken care of! It felt so much lighter to think this way and while I was not truly convinced yet, it was how I needed to start thinking if I was going to ever live a truly prosperous life.

Our beliefs form our reality. I had gotten so used to struggling in the last few years that I had become even more inclined to stew over the cost of things. My endless tapes of irritation were the very things that were creating more struggle and lack for me. Our conscious/subconscious minds always convert our beliefs into the world we see around us. I was not a victim. I was getting exactly what I believed to be true and then getting irritated about it. I put the worry out of my mind and trusted that the issue would be resolved. In fact, later that day I visualized it already being resolved. I felt a wave of peace come over me. I knew as I let go of these victim thoughts my reality would inevitably shift. It always does when I do this. I just needed a negative experience to trigger my awakening. It’s funny how enlightenment can come to us in the strangest places and times.

Jim Ventura 8-2012

Editors note:

Fall has finally arrived. It’s hard to wipe the happy smile (and why would anyone want to?) from the faces of everyone who lives in Phoenix. The hot summers can definitely take their toll on everyone who lives here. Now we enter that kick-ass period of awesome weather again from now until late June!

I still have openings in my Creating Prosperity class. This is a one day seminar and will be taught in my home in Phoenix. Most of us have been challenged in the last few years with the negative influences of a difficult economy. Getting in touch with our ability to create prosperity no matter what is happening around us, is a very reachable goal! Join me for an opportunity to expand your “wealth consciousness!”

I have begun the process of recording some of the different types of readings I do as well as mini lectures for U-Tube. I will post links to some of the videos here in my monthly column as well as on FaceBook. My goal is to introduce more people to the benefits of the different types of sessions I do, as well as “enlightening” my listening audience with some great metaphysical information. Many people are afraid of Oracles, Astrology, and many of the other awesome tools I work with because of misinformation from, television, movies, bad religion, and even uncomfortable experiences with “psychics” in their past. It will be fun for me to do some video work again. Its been almost 13 years since I did my public access talk show. Body, Mind, and Spirit of AZ!

Wishing everyone a happy October! Cheers. Jim V

Snake Oil Radio

Every Thursday at 3:30 pm (there will be three live broadcasts this month)

My next live broadcast of Snake Oil Radio will be Thursday, October 4th, at 3:30 p.m. (MST). Every Thursday you can catch a new show. Each 45 minute show will expand on my current column’s subject matter. It will also offer an opportunity for you to call in live (or chat with other listeners in the chat room) with comments and your thoughts about the topic of discussion. Halfway though the show you can even ask me for a free 5 minute mini reading with your personal question. If you miss the live show, you can catch any of my previously recorded shows on the web site’s archive. You can also catch Snake Oil Radio on i-tunes (download my pod-casts there).

All you need to do is be at a computer and tuned into: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Jim-Ventura  You may also access it by going to blogtalkradio.com. Type “Snake Oil” into the search option.

For the live show you can also go to the shows that are currently “On air” at that time and find me. The call in number is 646-200-3966 for questions and comments.

“Wealth is the ability to fully experience life.” Henry David Thoreau

Current classes:

CREATING PROSPERITY

Many people have struggled with some financial difficulties in the last few years. The economy is slowly improving, so this is a help. Yet, we always have the power and ability to tap into our potential to create prosperity, no matter what is happening around us!

Learning to open a doorway to living in abundance is possible. We can manifest prosperity in many different areas: career, finances, love life, personal happiness, etc...This class will focus on many different methods for generating personal wealth. Learning how to change beliefs and perspectives relating to finances will help you uncover the blocks that currently keep you stuck. The universe will support your decision to change your reality. Instructor Jim Ventura will discuss practical and metaphysical tools to show you how to create prosperity in your life. Saturday November 17th. 10 am - 12:30 pm. A maximum of 8 people for this class (minimum of 4 to hold). $20.00 prepaid before November 10th, or $25.00 on day of the class. 

“Happy People produce. Bored people consume” Stephen Richards

October Special

For the month of October anyone who picks up (at my home office) one (or more) of my published books will get a discount price of $10 for each copy (either print or CD).

If you want a copy mailed to you, the promotional rate this month only is $12 including shipping costs.

If requested, all books and Cd’s will be signed by the author (me)!

Snake Oil Volume One: Grow, play, evolve, experience this world, while recognizing our true essence stretches far beyond it.

Jim Ventura’s Snake Oil columns express his studies of the insight and guidance of many different kinds of cultural and philosophical perspectives. His essays teach his readers to trust the inner prompts from their Higher Selves. The tangible world is a product of our beliefs. If indeed we create our reality, then we can learn how to create a happier, more empowered reality. Everyone has the ability to shift their perceptions to include the abundant metaphysical influences that are part of every experience. Snake Oil’s focus is on expanding consciousness, while still keeping our feet planted firmly on the ground in this world. Jim V. reminds us that we can emotionally and spiritually grow to become progressively more enlightened by opening to the infinite, abundant wisdom, knowledge, and humor in ourselves and in the world around us.

Snake Oil Volume One is a collection of the first four years of Jim Ventura’s monthly metaphysical columns. This volume also includes Snake Charms: practical information and instruction for meditation, ear coning, lucid dreaming and six other beneficial subjects to assist you in navigating in a world where evolved, alternative thought and therapies are thankfully continuing to progressively become more commonplace.

Dirty little Secrets

Storyteller and professional oracle reader Jim Ventura takes his readers on a wild literary ride. Dirty Little Secrets is a collection of short essays. The book explores some of society’s perceptions about what people often consider to be dirty little secrets best kept to oneself. The book tackles subjects with unflinching honesty: drug use, sexual addiction, unrequited love, revenge, childhood weirdness, homosexuality, and the old soul’s quest to experience magic and miracles in everyday life. The author holds little back in expressing his quest for enlightenment. Dirty Little Secrets illustrates how meaning, spirituality, and humor are embedded in every experience.

“Choose to be a young child - fully awake, eager for the next experience.” Jonathan Lockwood Huie

Here’s my contact information to make an appointment for a session, or information on current classes: Phone: (602)957-3035 Email: Venturasag@yahoo.com 

Information about the different sessions and types of readings and services, past Snake Oil columns, and how to order my books and audio CD’s can be found at my website: Http://JimVentura.com

“Friend” me on Facebook to get other extra offers and in between column extras!

All Current Snake Oil subscribers get $5.00 off all listed prices below.

All sessions/readings for 2012-2013 are: (70 minutes) $110.00; (40 minutes) $80.00;  Extended (90 minutes) $130.00 (two people can split an extended session back to back for $65.00 each). 

September 2012 Snake Oil/Jim Ventura Blog

What if life were easy?

Late August was an incredibly busy time for me. I was working extra hours at my job and juggling what seemed like a million other details of life, when a car accident was added to the mix. I was driving to work for my twelve hour Friday double shift when an oblivious woman sipping a coffee and talking on her cell phone blew through her stop sign and hit the right front end of my Chevy Cavalier. I wanted to be angry with her for obvious stupidity, but she mangled her own car as well and was extremely apologetic. My irritation with her dissipated as she cried and told me repeatedly how genuinely sorry she was. Thankfully neither of us were physically hurt. It was clear to me that both cars would not be repairable. While I waited for a police officer to show up in the hot Arizona sun my mind raced with worry. How would I find the time to get another car? My car was almost eight years old, its blue book value was not very high and I would end up with another loan and debt to pay (I took the job I was heading to that day to-decrease my debt, now I would be adding to it). I would have to deal with endless phone calls back and forth with insurance companies. I had no idea what car I even wanted to get. My long range plan was to buy a hybrid car in three or four years, I wasn’t ready to put out that kind of money now. How would I find the time and energy for all of this? Amidst all of the internal fear and panic I was going through, while waiting for the towing company to tow my car, I heard a clear, calm internal message that said; Jim, there is no need to worry, everything will work out fine and you will benefit from all of this.

I decided I would listen to this other point of view, wherever it was coming from. It was certainly an optimistic perspective and the exact opposite of what my fears were telling me. I walked to my job and still worked my twelve hour day. I had a hard time sleeping that night, because there was still some leftover anxiety about the whole experience. Another part of me was clear and strangely confident, somehow everything would work out really well. I knew however illogical it seemed, that I needed to trust this. The next morning I received a call from the insurance company of the woman who hit me. They told me that I would not need to go through my own insurance company because they would be paying on this claim. They would need a couple of days to evaluate the damage and would be able to cut me a check in a few days. The had a rental car waiting for me and would send a driver over from Enterprise rental to set me up. It sounded far too easy, so I called my own insurance company and asked them if I should take her insurance company’s offer. They told me that it would be wise to do so. I was given a comfortable car for the week at a very good price, in case I needed to keep it longer than the insurance company would pay on it. I was planning on a Vegas trip with a friend, a week after my accident. We were going to rent a car-for this trip, so this was provided for us!

I have been very happy with the last two cars I’ve owned that were both Chevy’s, but a friend suggested I check out Toyota’s. Something felt right about this suggestion, so I went to see what they were offering in used cars. The nice young man who showed me cars that day did not try to hard sell me. He was pleasant and did his best to help me stay within my budget. I ended up test driving a used Prius. This hybrid car would cut my monthly gas costs in half. I loved the car and I was able to bargain down the price to almost $1700.00 less than the sticker. I had never been able to do this type of thing before, so I felt like I accomplished something powerful, in addition to getting a great car. I only had to put a little over a thousand dollars down and financed the rest at a reasonable rate. I was also able to use some of the extra insurance money to pay down some credit cards and keep extra padding in my checking accounts. My recently deceased father would have beamed with pride had he been able to see me do this. I think in some way he was there in spirit and contributed in his own way to things moving so harmoniously.

During the entire two week process, I would sometimes have nagging doubts about how easy everything was proceeding. The last few years of my life had some extra challenges.  I had gotten used to struggling. In addition, I began to think about how I was taught by my mother that you often had to fight for the things you wanted in life. While my mother was an excellent teacher, when it came to helping make me a stronger person, her Aries, German temperament made her perceive things often as a battle. She was born in the mid-1930’s, when things were far more difficult, so it made sense that she believed this. I also began to think about how when I was younger and even up until the time I was around 25, things often came easily to me. My friends and some family members would often comment with a hint of jealous irritability, that “Jim always seemed to luck out.” I often was in the right place at the right time, found great jobs, great friends, found money, and had a number of talents and skills that came fairly easy to me. I lost a lot of this “lucky magic” in my mid-twenties. I could see that this car accident served a greater purpose. I was getting a new vehicle and a new perspective. I was reconnecting with a beneficial lost aspect of myself that had almost disappeared.

A few days after I got my Prius, the check-engine-light came on. I brought the car back to the dealership. They told me that my catalytic convertor was shot. It took a little diplomatic bargaining to talk down the dealerships original offer of only paying half of the cost to repair it, but I pulled it off easily. I chose not to go into battle about the situation. I trusted it would also turn out favorably for me. I ended up paying nothing for a $1400.00 part. I was lucky that it went out a few days after I bought the car. A few months down the line and I would have had to pay for it. Good things were consistently happening in a number of areas. The only problems I experienced was over coming a mild phobia when driving; who was going to blow through a stop sign next and hit this car? I knew this was highly improbable. There was also an obnoxious, mob-like credit card hike of my interest rate  to 29.9 percent by a card I had the highest balance of my debt on, Citibank. I had a flawless credit history with them and all of my credit cards. I couldn’t figure out what their justification was for doing this. I could easily let my anger at this credit card company topple the new solid foundation of ease and flow I was currently building. It took some effort to keep my thoughts positive, but I knew that there was an opportunity in this apparent dilemma and that it would be eventually be resolved if I didn’t let this pull me back into my previous negative perspective. There was a solution to this as well, even if I couldn’t see it yet.

There are occasional times in life when things are really difficult and sometimes we have to do battle to get our needs met. I am glad that my mother taught me how to fight for what I believe is right. She truly helped make me and my siblings stronger. But, now I have come back home to a even more comfortable place. I brought back a part of my psyche and element of my personal reality that I unfortunately had long ago left behind. I got caught up in the belief that “life is a difficult experience where you have to often battle to get justice.” I proudly clung to that perspective for quite some time. I focused heavily on this belief and it is no wonder that it was reflected back to me in my physical reality. It feels more natural for me to be “one of those people that most things come easy to.” I like being back in the position of choosing effortlessness as opposed to struggle. When we fuel our beliefs and intentions with the idea of ease and harmony, we empower our Higher Self, and the Universe to assist with creating this. Then we can receive assistance with the details of life that enable us to solve all of our problems. Now, I am back on my comfortable raft and floating down the river of life instead of constantly putting energy into a needless fight against the stream.          

9-2009 Jim Ventura

*This column originally appeared in my October 2009 newsletter. I am still happily driving my 50 miles to the gallon Prius, and no one has blown through any stop signs and hit me lately!

Editors note:

Its back to school time and “technically” the end of summer. Here in Phoenix the hot summer usually doesn’t actually end until mid to late October. Still, just knowing the stifling heat is coming to an end is somewhat inspiring. Fall has always been my favorite season and I am definitely looking forward to the cooler weather ahead. 

I have been doing a number of extra posts on Facebook about Astrology and other metaphysical subjects. I have included an early August post in this newsletter, but you can friend request me or check my fan page on Facebook to get all of the past and current posts. Saturn is moving into Scorpio next month and this is a notable shift for all of us personally and globally. 

If you are looking to book a session with me now or in the near future, one of the easiest ways is through email (Venturasag@yahoo.com). You can ask for my current months schedule and choose which available times and dates works best for you. I can still be reached by phone to book sessions, although I remind all of my clients that same day session requests are often not possible. All of my Snake Oil subscribers get a $5.00 discount on all 45 minute or longer sessions and I also take another $5 off for cash payments! Of course, check and credit/debit card payments are also welcome. 

I am doing a one day home class on Creating Prosperity in November. I will only be able to accommodate seven students in person and one by phone for this 2 and a half hour class. These spot are likely to fill up quickly, so reserve your space and get out to enjoy a life changing class and the added benefit of hanging out and meeting some new friends. 

Wishing everyone a happy September and a great start to the fall! Cheers. Jim V

Saturn moves into Scorpio

The planet Saturn usually stays in a sign for about two and a half years. It will be moving out of Libra and into Scorpio in early October of 2012. Saturn’s placement in our chart represents the difficult experiences that caused us some pain and struggle in our lives, but inevitably lead to where we become stronger. Saturn makes us cautious, painstaking in our approach, frugal, steadfast and often fearful. Saturn’s natal placement in our chart (both the sign and house) shows us the area where obstructions in our path and delays help us to resolve our karmic debts. Saturn is never an easy influence when we are younger. As we get older it becomes one of our greatest gifts and where we inevitably become wise. It is the lump of coal that we slowly polish into our diamond.

For the last two years Saturn has been moving through Libra. As a society and individually, we have been looking at the advantages and disadvantages of relationships, marriage, divorce, partnerships, and themes around fairness, balance, and all kinds of matters connected with legal issues. Saturn has tested many of us around our relationships or lack of relationships...As it leaves Libra we will be taking a more mature approach to how we feel about what is fair and what is unfair in the areas Libra governs.

Scorpio rules death, power, transformation, sex, shared resources, money connected with others (banks, inheritances, etc...) intensity, and how we control and use our animal instincts in a beneficial way, or to the detriment of ourselves and sometimes to those around us. We should see some interesting things in the media and the news around these and similar matters throughout the next two years. The political arena will heat up even more and you can expect to see more sex scandals and news of financial manipulation, greed, and corruption exposed. Saturn is the lord of karma. There is a always a high price to be paid when you attempt to negatively manipulate Saturnian energies. This will be even more noticeable as Saturn progresses though Scorpio. I will talk more about Saturn's move into Scorpio in another installment in my newsletter in the next few months. I also discussed some extra information about this subject on my radio show on August 16th. You can hear any past shows at your leisure in the archives.

The house Saturn occupies in our natal chart will show where it’s influence is throughout our lifetime. The house where Scorpio rules our chart is the area of life where we will be tested with lessons of increasing maturity in the next few years. In my chart Scorpio rules part of the sixth  (work, service) and most of my seventh (marriage, equal partnerships) houses. 

If you would like to get my Astrological Facebook posts regularly feel free to request being added to my friends list (if you aren’t already on it) or sign up for my Fan Page. 

“What you deny to others will be denied to you.” Dick Sutphen

Snake Oil Radio

Every Thursday at 3:30 pm (there will be three live broadcasts this month)

My next live broadcast of Snake Oil Radio will be Thursday, September 6th, at 3:30 p.m. (MST). Every Thursday you can catch a new show. Each 45 minute show will expand on my current column’s subject matter. It will also offer an opportunity for you to call in live (or chat with other listeners in the chat room) with comments and your thoughts about the topic of discussion. Halfway though the show you can even ask me for a free 5 minute mini reading with your personal question. If you miss the live show, you can catch any of my previously recorded shows on the web site’s archive. You can also catch Snake Oil Radio on i-tunes (download my pod-casts there).

All you need to do is be at a computer and tuned into: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Jim-Ventura  You may also access it by going to blogtalkradio.com. Type “Snake Oil” into the search option.

You can also go to the shows that are currently “On air” at that time and find me. The call in number is 646-200-3966 for questions and comments.

Join me for a special one hour live interview (September 13th) show with Victoria Glod:

Victoria has felt a special connection with animals her entire life.  About a decade ago she was searching for something that would bring passion to her work. That lead to a profound experience with a dying animal, and it was this experience that brought her to her first animal communication teacher, Carol Gurney in Agoura Hills, California.  Victoria believes that anyone with a passion and desire to communicate with animals is able to do so.

Our animal companions have many reasons for being with us, and you might be amazed by the incredible wisdom that they often provide.  They can be here to teach us lessons.  Perhaps they are mirroring an aspect of us that we may not even like or recognize.  

There are a variety of reasons that people reach out to an animal communicator.  Often it is a behavioral,  emotional or health issue.  Perhaps an animal is missing.  Her most rewarding ways to assist her clients is during the end of life transition, when it can be so difficult to make decisions.  Perhaps the happiest connection of all 

is with an animal who has crossed over.  Victoria uses a number of healing modalities that can often be of assistance to both the animals and their people.

www.petmessages.com. 

”If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at will change.” Wayne Dyer

Opportunity for all my clients:

Referral comps

One of the least expensive and beneficial forms of advertising for me is when clients who have used my services (personal sessions, classes, books etc...) recommend me to friends and family. I reward the clients who send me new people (who book sessions or attend classes) with discounts that can be used on their next sessions with me. I keep track of all my referrals and send the discounts out every six months. Referral discounts range from $10.00 to $25.00 for each referral sent my way. You can use these discounts yourself or give them to a friend to use. Either way, know that your “salesmanship skills” are greatly appreciated. If you need business cards or brochures, just ask and I will send you as many as you need. Thanks again for your assistance in helping me to reach more people. Jim Ventura

Added note:  In 2008 I had one client who sent me so many referrals in six months that she earned an entire extended (90 minute) free session and also got an autographed copy of my first book for her efforts! 

Special Note (Bonus for anyone who actually reads my entire column and catches this!)

I was contemplating running another type of Group-on type of promotion to continue the flow of reaching new clients, when I got a better idea. Rather than give the extreme discount I offer with these to a company, I thought I would pass the discount on to some of my loyal readers. The first seven people who see this and respond to the offer can purchase up to (2) gift certificates for any of the sessions I offer for an in person or phone consultation. The stipulation is the gift session must be given to a new client I have never worked with before. It can be given to a friend or family member. Once purchased the gift session is good for one full year so you can even hold them for few months if you want. This brief promotion is 50 percent off my listed prices! $40 for 45 minute session (normally $80.00) or $55 for 70 minute session (normally $110.00). Because this is a heavily discounted promotion, it is only being offered to the first seven people who email or call me to purchase and the offer ends September 7th, 2012. Giving gifts to others is another way to bring the flow of prosperity toward us. Stay in the flow. Cheers. Jim V

Current classes:

CREATING PROSPERITY

Many people have struggled with financial difficulties in the last few years. The economy is slowly improving, so this is a help. Yet, we always have the power and ability to tap into our potential to create prosperity, no matter what is happening around us!

Learning to open a doorway to living in abundance is possible. We can manifest prosperity in many different areas: career, finances, love life, personal happiness, etc...This class will focus on many different methods for generating personal wealth. Learning how to change beliefs and perspectives relating to finances will help you uncover the blocks that currently keep you stuck. The universe will support your decision to change your reality. Instructor Jim Ventura will discuss practical and metaphysical tools to show you how to create prosperity in your life. Saturday November 17th. 10 am - 12:30 pm. A maximum of 8 people for this class (minimum of 4 to hold). $20.00 prepaid before November 10th, or $25.00 on day of the class. 

“America did not invent human rights. In a very real sense...human rights invented America.” Jimmy Carter

Here’s my contact information to make an appointment for a session, or information on current classes: Phone: (602)957-3035 Email: Venturasag@yahoo.com 

Information about the different sessions and types of readings and services, past Snake Oil columns, and how to order my books and audio CD’s can be found at my website: Http://JimVentura.com 

“Friend” me on Facebook to get other extra offers and in between column extras!

All Current Snake Oil subscribers get $5.00 off all listed prices below.

All sessions/readings for 2012-2013 are: (70 minutes) $110.00; (40 minutes) $80.00;  Extended (90 minutes) $130.00 (two people can split an extended session back to back for $65.00 each). 

August 2012 Snake Oil/Jim Ventura blog

August 2012 Snake Oil/Jim Ventura newsletter

Snake Charm 11/ Nature Fix

When I first started doing readings professionally, I found that from time to time I would get clients that were going through some really painful struggles in their lives. Sometimes they were even in extreme crisis. Part of being able to “read” for someone is to temporarily connect with them energetically and allow yourself to “feel” what they are going through. Even after the clients who were in tremendous pain left, I would sometimes have trouble sleeping, feel emotionally drained, depressed, or even a little sick. I wasn’t able to quickly shake the uncomfortable energy I picked up. I knew how to do clearing techniques and meditations to become balanced again, but this was often time consuming and not always easy to do between sessions. Many people who get involved in this and similar fields, encounter problems with absorbing negative energy. I needed an easier solution to discharge the extremely difficult energy I would sometimes pick up from the people in my work and in my personal life.

Early on in my counseling career a solution found its way to me. I was living in an apartment complex and had my first home office. The property next door was horse property and some farmland. It seemed that the owner sold some of the property and they were developing part of it to be made into another apartment complex. They had plowed the land leaving large fields of dirt to the west of my place. The projects completion was delayed for almost a year. During that time I began to go outside after some of my sessions and just sit, or simply put my hands or feet in the abundant soil. It felt really good, and I could feel the Earth quickly absorbing the toxins I had brought in. Sometimes I did this to let go of client’s energy, sometimes it was my own twenty-something-anguish. In either case, it would only take a few minutes for me to feel completely cleared when I did this. It seemed that the soil itself was a powerful healing agent.

I also discovered that another effective way to clear negative energy was a simple process of sitting in, touching, or even embracing trees. The solid, thick, old, larger trees seemed to be the most healing. I did this almost every night for weeks when I was going through a painful long term relationship breakup. I stumbled upon a tree that was shaped in a way that I could sit cradled at its base. I shed quite a few tears in that tree during a particularly emotional period in my life. I always felt supported, safe, and more stable each time I did this. Trees have their own form of consciousness and their strong roots and stable energy can be tremendously powerful in absorbing emotional pain. 

Trees, soil, and plants can receive negative energy and use it as a form of fertilizer.  This can be valuable to them. Fortunately, our emotional and energetic angst doesn’t hurt them. They are able to transform painful emotion and negative human energy. Even if you live in a city and can’t easily access trees or plants in your own garden, you can plant flowers in small pots (make sure they have a drainage hole at the bottom) or even simply keep a bag of potting soil around. Going to a plant nursery and walking around can also be extremely effective. This is a powerful form of clearing and also a kind of meditation. We all go through times when we are emotionally upset or have friends, family, or clients that are energetically out of balance. The simple act of putting your hands in soil or asking a tree to absorb your toxins or sadness is an inexpensive (even free) way to restore emotional harmony. 

Jim Ventura 7-2012

Editors note:

Some of you may have noticed that my website was down for most of July. The Mac site  it was hosted on (Mobile Me) made its final appearance on June 30th. They made the transition to becoming I-Cloud and shut down their websites. Even though they told me months in advance I chose denial and tried to ignore this fact as long as I could. As usual, the annoyance of having to pay for and set up a new website inevitably turned out to be a good thing. The new website will have a shopping cart. As my library of books and class CD’s build, it will be easier for clients to order these things anytime they want. The expanded website will also help me to expand the amount of people I can reach and help with their intuitive development studies.

My goal in the next three years is to create a lot more books, CD’s, instructional videos, Talisman symbols and other tools to help everyone (who is interested) develop their metaphysical talents and abilities. I am very close to finishing the Tarot card interpretation book. I will keep everyone on my mailing list informed each time a new title comes out. Check out the new website and feel free to pass the new one along to any friends and family who may be interested: www.JimVentura.com

It seems that my radio show is gaining in popularity. Archive listens for many of the Snake Oil radio shows are climbing to over 500 for each show. It seems that the most popular shows are the ones about Astrology. I also seem to get a lot of interest in my extra current astrological transit posts on FaceBook. Since there are a lot of people interested in Astrology lately, for the month of August everyone on my mailing list can take advantage of the Astrological consultation special this month. All Astrology sessions are $20.00 (August 1 through 30th 2012) off my listed prices. Get a session for yourself and even buy one for a friend or family member. It makes a great gift for new parents to have their child's Astrology chart interpreted. My sister’s son is now 18 and she still raves about how helpful and accurate it was when I did her son’s chart when he was 2.

Its the mid point of a hot summer, stay cool! Wishing everyone a happy August and happy Birthday Leo and Virgo. Cheers. Jim V

“There is nothing divine about morality: it is a purely human affair.” Albert Einstein

Mercury retrograde in Leo

Sometimes Mercury retrogrades become “textbook” examples of the problems that can be connected with the planet that rules how we think and communicate. Mercury retrogrades last for a little over 3 weeks, and the current one started in mid-July.

My home phone (landline) has been screwed up for two weeks now and it started almost to the minute of the current retrograde. The first week I had a week of no messages going to my voicemail. I was in Las Vegas and had no idea that this was actually happening for the first few days. The problem started and continues with some obnoxious static on the line that makes using this phone a challenge. I have had to triple my cell phone use (and pay for it) and have all of my calls forwarded to my cell phone voice mailbox. Century Link came to repair the line, but it is still not working correctly. (something about a bad connector in our area that is “something they are continuing to work on resolving...”)

This retrograde is in Leo. What does that mean for all of us? Leo in our chart (yes, even if you aren’t Leo, it is in your chart and ruling one or two of your houses of life.) corresponds to where we are creative, confident, giving, playful, and where we like to be recognized for being a “Prince” or “Princess.” It rules how we like to shine in this world. It also can be where we are ego-centric. Mercury retrograde in Leo will bring up old issues (and maybe a few new ones) around how others view us, and whether they respect and value what we feel makes us great! This can bring up some sticky themes with anyone we perceive as “disrespecting us” or not valuing “how much we give.”The house(s) Leo rules in your chart will show more specifically what part of our life this will influence most. Mercury is transiting though my 4th house (home, family, roots, place we retreat to for security...). I have had to work to not kill some of my family members at this time, so far so good... lol

Good news is we can also remember how to play again and have fun during this transit! More good news: it goes direct again on August 8th :)

ASTROLOGICAL READING SPECIAL (available to everyone who receives my monthly newsletter)

$20.00 off my normal prices for any sessions booked from August 1st 2012 until August 31st. Mention the special when requesting a session. You can also purchase up to three gift certificates for friends and family during this time at this rate (good for one full year).

My second most requested session is the Astrological reading, which interprets your personal astrology and aids in self awareness. By looking beyond your Sun sign (the stuff the newspapers focus on) and exploring your Moon sign, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Ascendant, etc... you can begin to gain clarity about the focus and primary themes of your life. House placements, aspects, and elements will help you see your patterns in greater detail. Transits will show what areas of your life are currently highlighted, and pinpoint upcoming astrological triggers for the future. Relationships, career, money, friendships, spiritual growth, family, health... all interpreted for you so you don't have to do the work. You will need to know your birth time for this reading.

“Ask and you shall receive. It pays to know how to ask and how to receive.” Dick Sutphen

Snake Oil Radio

Thursday's at 3:30 pm (there will be three live broadcasts this month)

My next live broadcast of Snake Oil Radio will be Thursday, August 9th, at 3:30 p.m. (MST). Every Thursday you can catch a new show. Each 45 minute show will expand on my current column’s subject matter. It will also offer an opportunity for you to call in live (or chat with other listeners in the chat room) with comments and your thoughts about the topic of discussion. Halfway though the show you can even ask me for a free 5 minute mini reading with your personal question. If you miss the live show, you can catch any of my previously recorded shows on the web site’s archive. You can also catch Snake Oil Radio on i-tunes (download my pod-casts there).

All you need to do is be at a computer and tuned into: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Jim-Ventura  You may also access it by going to blogtalkradio.com. Type “Snake Oil” into the search option.

You can also go to the shows that are currently “On air” at that time and find me. The call in number is 646-200-3966 for questions and comments.

“The only reason you ever do anything is because you want to. All other “reasons’ are part of the game. “Michael

Here’s my contact information to make an appointment for a session, or information on current classes: Phone: (602)957-3035 Email: Venturasag@yahoo.com 

Information about the different sessions and types of readings and services, past Snake Oil columns, and how to order my books and audio CD’s can be found at my website:http://JimVentura.com

“Friend” me on Facebook to get other extra offers and in between column extras!

All Current Snake Oil subscribers get $5.00 off all listed prices below on any 40 minutes or longer session.

All sessions/readings for 2012-2013 are: (70 minutes) $110.00; (40 minutes) $80.00;  Extended (90 minutes) $130.00 (two people can split an extended session back to back for $65.00 each). 

July 2012 Snake Oil/Jim Ventura Blog

July 2012 Snake Oil/Jim Ventura newsletter

Snake Oil/  Carry on our wayward son

I have always enjoyed music. I grew up in a house where all kinds of music was played often. My Mother listened to her large collection of albums during the daytime. My older siblings were frequently playing music in their rooms and had what my mom called “concerts.” In reality more often than not, they were listening to music and smoking weed. Mom was oblivious to that part. They often used incense to cover up the smell. The sounds of America, Cat Stevens, Fleetwood Mac, Bread, The Stylistics, The Who, Led Zeppelin, and popular music on the radio was often a part of our world. If music wasn’t coming from our home it was coming from the radio in everyone’s cars. I listened to pop music when I was a kid, but began to get brave and considered buying albums of the music I liked when I reached my teen years. I already had a collection of 45’s (if you are too young to know what a 45 is, it was a record of a single song.) but I was ready to take the plunge into purchasing albums. Because of the tremendous musical knowledge in my family this was a bit daunting to me. I finally got brave at around 14 and bought my first album. I bought an album by a group called Kansas that was only a few years old. It had songs like “Carry on our wayward son,” “Dust in the wind,” and “Point of no return.” I was thrilled to buy my first album, but bringing the album home made me very nervous. What would my siblings think of my choice?

My oldest brother saw me walk in the door and asked what album I had bought. Albums were far harder to hide the CD versions that came out in the mid eighties. My oldest brother rarely ever even acknowledged my existence, but because he probably though he could borrow my album if it was one he liked he got nosey. I hesitantly showed him my purchase. He looked at it and mildly grunted with no comment. I was extremely uncomfortable and felt he was judging me and finding me lacking in my musical purchase. This wasn’t the first time I felt I had been judged by a family member. I had experienced this many times before from neighbors, classmates, and family as well. Childhood is when our Chief Negative Features first surface (Seven different primary fears that create blocks to happiness. Most human beings have two of them by the time they reach adulthood). I experienced a little bit more of judgment than most people do and it triggered a fear of inadequacy and subsequent fear of vulnerability. My first album purchase was one of many experiences that created my acquiring a chief negative feature of Arrogance.

Arrogance has it positive expression of “pride” and a negative being “vanity.” I became aware of what arrogance actually was and how it was blocking me at around twenty. I was very lucky to have found some excellent channeled material that talked about the stumbling blocks of Chief negative feature (Michael material). I began to work on putting a stop to the problems arrogance creates for everyone who acquires it, and made some real progress on minimizing its hold earlier than most people do. While only approximately 15 percent of the population has this fear, in my practice of navigational consultations, the percentages rise to about 35 percent. We are actually not born with our chief negative features. They are not part of who we are. Still, because fear is such a powerful trap in this world it is nearly impossible for us to not get pulled into one or more of these as we develop into adults. I of course, was no exception to the rule. 

In the case of arrogance, criticism and judgment in early conditioning is more than most children can handle. Love feels conditional in the home and in the world around them. Early experiences create a dread of being judged and compared. Children who develop this fear decide that there is something wrong with them. This produces an attempt to act as if they are indifferent to all the judgment. They either act as if they don’t care about what others think or they work to develop a false personality that will make everyone around them think they they are great or special. This urge to cover up the pain and to shine brighter than others has a value. Many who develop this fear become quite smart, attractive, beautiful, funny, or anything else that might make people like them. They develop a heightened ability to scrutinize the world for anything that might bring scorn upon them. This can create some extremely observant, sharp minds, and attractive people. Unfortunately, it also creates a constant fear of vulnerability and true shyness. Arrogance can be seen by others as an individual who either brags too much or wants to hide who they are. Usually there is a bit of both of these things operating at different times.

I struggled in my teens and early twenties with arrogance. I didn’t believe I was attractive physically. I worked to resolve this by working out and even tanned obsessively for a short time. I thought the suntan would also clear up my teenage acne. I did everything I could to make myself look better although I was popular and had a number of friends, at the same time I had a number of areas in my life where I was painfully shy. In my teen years, my fear of being judged and laughed at was so bad that when I was around eighteen, I remember walking into a party and hearing someone laughing in the distance. I couldn’t even see who it was, yet my distorted sense of self worth convinced me they were laughing at me and what I was wearing. I also remember walking down the street late at night when I was around 16 and some drunk idiot in a car with some other teenagers threw a beer can out the window that almost hit me. I was convinced that he threw it because I was hideous. Arrogance initially starts out with experiencing too much judgment and criticism by others. In time, it progresses into not actually needing anyone to judge you to trigger a feeling of inadequacy. This is carried out expertly inside the self. Situations that have nothing to do with anyone judging you are met with a response as if this were actually the case. The Arrogance “dragon” masters the art of making you feel bad about yourself. Often it pushes you to feel judgement when one is actually judging you!

All people who develop this fear become hyper critical of themselves and others. Like all chief negative features, this does have some benefits. Often their critical eye makes for some real experts who have tremendous skills because of their extremely sharp, observation skills. The drive to succeed or to look really good can create some extremely talented, and even beautiful people. (witness talk shows where picked on, unattractive nerds return to confront their abusers and now look stunning). The problem is that while outwardly people afflicted by arrogance often look or sound good, inwardly there is still a scared child who can become obsessive about getting rid of any flaws anyone might see in them. They fear vulnerability and often find themselves mating with people who inevitably leave them because they hide parts of themselves from the people they are close to. They create false personalities that they hope will give them the approval they always desired. This can cause them to lose touch with being authentic. Like all chief negative features, the fear voice convinces you to cling more to its bad suggestions in hopes that it will help you. 

I myself followed many of these classic arrogance patterns. In addition to fearing that I was inadequate physically, I also had other demons. I struggled with shame around my sexual orientation. My Catholic upbringing and fear of rejection heightened this fear. I was studying philosophy, metaphysics, and all kinds of advanced things at a young age. Yet, I feared that people would disprove of these things and think I was even more of a weirdo if they found out. Because I developed this chief negative feature I have a tremendous understanding and compassion for people struggling with arrogance. Part of the process of breaking from this “dragon” is to realize that people are too self absorbed to pay much attention to us in the first place! To heal the arrogance fear you have to face it head on and risk being vulnerable. This is the very thing the fear will repeatedly tell you is most dangerous to your survival. This is one of many tools that can release us from its grip. I made great progress on conquering my arrogance at a fairly young age because I was blessed to have the tools to combat it.

Many of the things I feared made me inadequate turned out to be the very things that made me valuable. When I broke the grip of this fear I began to see things differently. My sexual orientation was a gift. Being gay makes it easier to work with women. They tend to feel safe and trust someone who isn’t going to try and sleep with them. In addition, this part of me enables me to have a more balanced awareness of male and female perspectives. When I came out about my spiritual studies, it helped a lot of people, and it opened up the door to a career that I love. All of the things that the fear convinced me were bad turned out to be good! I recently listened to my Kansas album (now I have it on CD). It is a really good album. It was a pretty brilliant choice in early music for a 14 year old. For anyone with this chief feature, when you accept who you are and risk vulnerability, you will find yourself getting happier and far more peaceful. I believed I was too much of a weirdo, but that was my gift, not my curse. At some level we are all a bit odd. Yet, when we let our individual “music” out, the world inevitably sounds and looks a hell of a lot better because we did! 

Jim Ventura 6-2012

Editors note:

It’s hard to believe that we are already in the heart (heat) of the summer. It’s hot outside here in Phoenix! Even when I take my every other month trips to Las Vegas, it’s really hot there as well. Still, my free hotel rooms A/C is usually set to around 68 degrees. I actually find myself freezing some nights when I sleep.  And people wonder why I like to go to Vegas so often... strangely, the part of me that is drawn to an enjoyment of extremes in temperatures likes all of this craziness. I am a true Sagittarius and love my road trips!

Any of my sharp, observant readers who have followed my columns over the years will probably see that I have just covered the fourth installment of information about the influences of the seven chief negative features. I have now covered impatience, martyrdom, greed, and arrogance. I will tackle stubbornness, self deprecation, and self destruction in future columns. If you missed the previous columns you can purchase a copy of Snake Oil Volume One to catch up. If you want help with breaking free of yours you can book a Transformation session with me. Joining my regular client program is one of the best ways to help loosen the grip of chief negative features. In addition to experiencing many different types of sessions, we always get to the process of breaking chief negative feature. More information about signing up for this program is in the newsletter. Take advantage of the regular sessions, discounts, and benefits of the program. Congratulations to my current and to many of my previous Regular clients for tackling their “dragons”  - the results have been monumental.

If you are on Facebook, feel free to friend request me. Facebook friends get discounts on sessions, extra session offers, as well as lots of extra posts about current Astrology and other influences. You can also ask to be added to my promotional birthday special list by “asking to be added” and giving me your Birthday information by email. I already have some of my mailing list clients birthdays. Clients who I have a list of birth-dates get a discounted session each year on their birthday!

“A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable, but more useful than a life spent doing nothing...” George Bernard Shaw

Regular Client Program 

One of the best programs I have been doing for nearly ten years now is my Regular client program. The program is designed to benefit my clients at multiple levels. Clients who enroll in the program come in every three months for personal sessions (monthly, or every other month is also an option). This can also be done for out-of-area clients by phone. Session prices are discounted for Regular clients.  Regulars also receive discounts on classes, books and CD’s. The focus of the program is on consistent work in developing your intuitive abilities, learning how to use the signs and signals that are all around us, and permanently conquering fear-based programming. My Regular client program has resulted in some tremendous spiritual evolution for hundreds of people over the years. Many of my Regulars have gone on to do spiritual counseling, or similar types of work and some are healing and guiding others personally and professionally. The progress I have seen over the years among the majority of my Regular clients has been phenomenal. I feel like a proud Dad when I see the spiritual, physical, and emotional progress I have helped to motivate. So many of my Regular clients have dramatically changed the way they now view life and are enjoying a more enlightened point of view. You too can join this program as well, just ask.

More about the Regular Client Program...

This program was designed to create an easy, cost effective way for my clients to progress in their spiritual development. 

When we are consistent at attending to our body/mind/spirit, we naturally move through life with more harmony and greater joy. When our spiritual awareness is heightened and fine tuned we are often happier which helps us to enjoy all aspects of our lives, including occasional personal challenges because we see them as inevitably beneficial. We can truly assist the people around us. Human beings learn by example. Your intimate partnerships, friendships, family, and children benefit when you are in a good space.

Regular client rates for 2012-2014: (My session rates may go up, but Regulars will stay at these discounted  rates)

Quarterly (every three months) Regulars:

70 minute sessions $90.00, 40 minute sessions $60.00, Extended 90 minute sessions $105.00.

Every two months Regulars:

70 minute sessions $85.00, 40 minute sessions $55.00, Extended 90 minute sessions $100.00.

Monthly Regulars: 

70 minute sessions $80.00, 40 minute sessions $50.00, Extended 90 minute sessions $95.00.

(Prepaid sessions of 4 or more also receive another 5 percent discount)

Contact me by phone or email for more information and to sign up to be part of the Regular Client program.

Snake Oil Radio

Every Thursday at 3:30 pm (there will be three live broadcasts this month)

My next live broadcast of Snake Oil Radio will be Thursday, July 5th, at 3:30 p.m. (MST). Every Thursday you can catch a new show. Each 45 minute show will expand on my current column’s subject matter. It will also offer an opportunity for you to call in live (or chat with other listeners in the chat room) with comments and your thoughts about the topic of discussion. Halfway though the show you can even ask me for a free 5 minute reading with your personal question. If you miss the live show, you can catch any of my previously recorded shows on the web site’s archive. You can also catch Snake Oil Radio on i-tunes (download my pod-casts there).

All you need to do is be at a computer and tuned into: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Jim-Ventura  You may also access it by going to blogtalkradio.com. Type “Snake Oil” into the search option.

You can also go to the shows that are currently “On air” at that time and find me. The call in number is 646-200-3966 for questions and comments.

My monthly interview show will be on July 12th with Maren Nelson:

Maren Nelson is a healer and a certified Master Teacher of Connected Breathing and Founder of the renowned Life Breath Integrations, a center for holistic healing and personal growth in Scottsdale, AZ and Los Angeles, CA. She works with private clients, trains and certifies practitioners in Life Breathing (Holotropic Breathing/Connected Breathing), and has been facilitating workshops internationally since 1987.

Maren is a Minister of Mind/Body Healing for the Association of the Integration of the Whole Person (AIWP). She is a sought after speaker and continues to develop innovative workshops and seminars across the country.

“Good things can have bad outcomes. Bad things can have good outcomes. Rather than jumping to conclusions, wait and see.” Dick Sutphen

Summer classes (All at my home in Phoenix) 

MICHAEL MATERIAL (5 class series)

* What is your soul age? The soul age of friends and family ?

* How do past lifetimes influence us in the present ?

* What does karma feel like, and how does it work ?

* How does your chief negative feature impact your life, and can it be changed?

* What happens when your partner is an idealist and you are a realist ?

* What is your life goal? Is it dominance, acceptance, flow or submission ?

*What is your essence, your soul mate’s essence ? Artisan, priest, king, server, sage,   warrior or scholar ?

* What is a soul mate, task companion, heart link ?

* What do the higher centers feel like?

After this workshop you will understand all of these questions and many more, and more importantly have the answers.

There are no tests to pass, just some great information. 5 classes, 2 hours each.

What is the Michael teaching?

The main goal of the Michael teaching is agape or unconditional love. The teaching views life as a learning game in which fragments of the Tao - that essential part of each human being - set up lessons which continue over lifetimes. These lessons are learned via the personality which Essence chooses each lifetime. Michael teaches us what the components of the personality are so that we can learn to use and see these components in ourselves and in others. In that way we can learn to understand why human beings behave as they do. Michael is composed of 1,050 individual Essences who have lived on the physical plane and now teach from another plane. One of the most basic and important principles of the teaching is that it is not a religion or a belief system. Michael encourages their students to self validate all of the information they receive. The system was originally in print in over 12 volumes of information. “My studies of this material have been extensive and now I offer what I have learned to my students” Jim Ventura (Old Scholar). The classes will help you to use and understand the material without the need to read all the out of print books.

Sunday afternoons 12:30- 2:45 pm. July 22, 29, August 5, 12, 19th.  $90.00 for all five classes ($80.00 pre-paid and for Regular clients). Maximum of eight students and minimum of four. $20.00 non-refundable deposit  to hold a space in the classes.

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Here’s my contact information to make an appointment for a session, or information on current classes: Phone: (602)957-3035 Email: Venturasag@yahoo.com 

Information about the different sessions and types of readings and services, past Snake Oil columns, and how to order my books and audio CD’s can be found at my website: http://web.mac.com/Venturawords

Blog column for 1 year of published columns: http://playingwithuranus.blogspot.com/

“Friend” me on Facebook to get other extra offers and in between column extras!

All Current Snake Oil subscribers get $5.00 off all listed prices below.

All sessions/readings for 2011-2012 are: (70 minutes) $110.00; (40 minutes) $75.00;  Extended (90 minutes) $130.00 (two people can split an extended session back to back for $65.00 each).