Developing Your Psychic Abilities: FAQs Answered

developing your psychic abilities - free guide and audio - 7 Real World Steps to Embracing Your Intuitive Gifts

As your psychic abilities develop, it’s normal to have questions. I mean, your intuitive gifts and mediumship are BIG topics. I’ve been there, too, and I get it!

That’s why, today, I’m answering 12 reader questions about developing your psychic abilities in detail.

This post is like a big kettle that’s boiling over with psychic goodness. It’s a long one, so grab your favorite drink, put your feet up, and enjoy!

developing your psychic abilities

12 Questions about Your Psychic Abilities

1. Beginner intuitive question

I’ve struggled getting anywhere with my psychic abilities. I meditate every day (and don’t always enjoy meditating) and then I get scared of the unknown. Any advice? -Nicky

Honestly, there is nothing to be afraid of as you develop your psychic abilities. Your intuitive gifts are full of light, love, and positive energy. The scary stuff just sells movie tickets.

Second, as for meditating, I get it. Not everyone loves it, but fortunately, there many meditation alternatives that will give you the same benefits. For example:

  • Take a nature walk
  • Write in your journal
  • Paint, draw, or color
  • Make a list of 50 things you are grateful for

Third, you’ll find that ebbs and flows are normal as you develop your intuitive abilities. But don’t worry; I have the perfect technique to help you get unstuck and strengthen your gifts. Read how to take your abilities to the next level here.

2. Clairvoyant images

I have psychic visions all day long. Would you be able to explain to me how to interpret them? – Jeani

It’s great that you are embracing your psychic awakening, but do you really want to have visions all day long?

I recommend that you get the visions under control first, so that you aren’t experiencing them all day. (It’s wonderful to be open, but being too open can make you feel ungrounded.)

To start managing your gift:

  • Envision a light switch. 
  • Now, imagine clicking it to the ‘off’ position. As you do, set the intention that your clairvoyance is ‘off’. Don’t worry, this won’t shut off your psychic abilities permanently, but it will help you control them.

When you want to open your psychic gifts, imagine the opposite:

  • Envision the light switch and turn it to the ‘on’ position.
  • Next, invite your Spirit Guides in, and ask them to send you clairvoyant visions and messages.

As for interpreting the visions, there are two ways to do it

1. Interpreting Clairvoyant Visions

Get a journal to devote to your intuitive journey. Each time you have a vision, write it down in your journal.

  • At the top of the page, write a short description of the vision.
  • Then, write down any thoughts, feelings, or sensations you feel, or intuitive messages that come to mind.
  • Next, ask yourself: Does this feel happy? Sad? Something else? Tune in to your body. Do you notice anything? A twinge in your third eye chakra, for example. Write down all of your impressions. This exercise will help you connect with your Higher Self and Spirit Guides, and help you begin to understand the intuitive guidance they offer.
2. Interpreting Visions

This fun exercise is also helpful for interpreting visions.

  • Now, take the booklet that comes with the cards and set it aside.
  • Grab your journal and, at the top of the page, write down the name of the first tarot card.
  • Close your eyes, take a deep breath and write out what the card means to you. You can completely trust your intuition for this exercise because there are no right or wrong answers. Simply relax and allow yourself to have fun!

If you practice these psychic development exercises for a bit, the visions will start to make sense, and your confidence in your abilities will grow!

3. Listening to inner guidance

I am going through a psychic awakening. I have decided to slow down for now, as it has been a bit of a wild ride so far. I’m following my own intuitive guide — my true self guides me. – Amar

I know this isn’t a question, but I thought it was super important to include this comment and say, “Yay!”

Trusting your intuition and taking a break when you need it is the perfect way to go through an awakening.

Go with the flow, and if you feel like you need to journal, nap, or whatever positive thing your soul is telling you to do… do it.

4. How do I start developing my psychic abilities?

What do you suggest for me to start with if I’m psychic? I live in the sticks and don’t have any classes in my area. Are there any online resources that you recommend? – Emily

I get asked this question so much that I’ve written two books to help beginners embrace, understand, and strengthen their psychic abilities. You can access each of them online:

Besides using the guides, I suggest that you:

Last, I recommend that you give a few practice readings. I know that sounds a little scary but hear me out…

Did you learn to ride a bike? I did and it was terrifying. My dad said he would hold the back of my seat so I wouldn’t fall, then he let go! I wish I could say there was a happy ending to this story and that I rode all the way to the ice cream truck, but I can’t. Instead, as soon as I noticed my Dad had let go, I panicked and fell over.

Did I eventually learn to ride? Yes.

And did my confidence grow? Yes.

The point is:

When you are first developing your psychic ability, it’s like learning to ride a bike. It’s scary at first, but the fear and doubt subside as you practice and get comfortable using your gifts.

So…

Ask a friend if you can give her a practice reading, but don’t worry about being wrong. The point of this exercise is to get used to working with energy and using your gifts:

  • 10 minutes before your friend arrives, set the intention that the reading will be for her highest good.
  • Next, invite your Spirit Guides in for support, and allow yourself to relax. As you sit quietly, pay attention to any feelings, clairvoyant images, or intuitive messages that come to you. This will help you connect with your psychic gifts.
  • When your friend arrives, imagine tuning in to her energy. What do you see, sense, feel? Notice I didn’t say *think* – use your sixth sense to feel. (Here are some tips to help you be confident when giving readings.)
  • When you feel the reading is complete, thank your Guides for their love and support.
  • Repeat the process the following week with this friend or another.

Like riding a bike, practice makes it easier, so jump in and go for it!

These tips will help you connect with your intuitive gifts in the most loving, high-vibe way possible.

5. Am I a medium?

This question came from Rylee who shared her experiences, including dreaming of spirits and feeling the emotions of others. She was also nervous that her family would think her intuitive gifts were crazy. (How many of us can relate?)

Okay first, let’s answer the big question, “Am I a medium?”

If you are asking that question, then you know in your heart that you ARE a spiritual medium. Sometimes, we just need to be validated in what we feel.

Second, it’s common for spirit to visit us in our dreams when our logical minds are taking a break (and we aren’t doubting their presence).

In fact, it’s common for those developing mediumship to:

Third, if you are deeply feeling things, it’s likely that you are an empath or have clairsentient ability. I suggest you spend some time learning how to protect your energy and manage your empathic ability.

Your psychic awakening is the beginning of a lifelong journey of love and growth!

6. Clairvoyance fears

Is there a best formula to use when one recently opened their third eye? Because I have to admit, I’m scared of having visions. – Sifiso

what is clairvoyanceYes, this clairvoyant post will help.

Also, you should work on getting your energetic vibration up. More about that in a minute, but first…

You should not be seeing or hearing anything scary. Everything from the spirit realm is loving because it is divine energy.

When scary visions creep in, it means your Ego (your physical self) is getting in the way. 

That’s why you need to raise your vibration… It will help you connect to your Higher Self (spiritual self) and eliminate fear.

Now, as for how to raise your vibration.

All you need to do is spend time doing activities you like. (Yes, it really is that easy!)

For example, go on a hike, do some woodworking, sing, dance, draw, journal, or anything that makes your soul feel good.

I also recommend reading the life-changing book by Esther Hicks called Ask and it is Given.

You can also find YouTube videos (search Abraham Hicks or Esther Hicks) and more books, audios, and card decks that you can use for inspiration. These teachings gave me a new perspective on life and taught me how to be joyful, and I know they can do the same for you.

Once your vibration is higher, the scary visions and sounds will go away. I promise, there is nothing to be afraid of.

7. Fear is holding me back

I’ve always felt intuitive, but fear is holding me back from developing my gifts. What can I do? Kayley

Fear holds people back, for sure. But as you can see from my other replies in this post, there is nothing to be afraid of because divine energy is light and loving.

To overcome your fear, I suggest that you write out exactly what you are afraid of. For example:

  • Are you afraid of having scary visions?
  • Are you worried about what your family and friends will think?

Go within to understand what is holding you back. Sending lots of love your way!

8. Why do I feel energy?

Since my psychic awakening, I have a strong rush of energy that goes through my body. I can also close my eyes and see white shapes like angels, stars, and sparkles. I also feel it going through my hands when I put them together, like two magnets fighting against each other. Can you explain this to me, please? Melina

When your psychic abilities first start developing, and you get used to all the energy, you can feel ungrounded… It can feel like going to the mall during a black Friday sale…

You’ve been sitting outside the mall since 2am waiting for the doors to open. After downing three-and-a-half cups of strong, black coffee, the doors finally open and you feel a surge of energy! You (and seemingly everyone else on planet Earth) runs in to grab the latest hot toy. It’s chaotic and your adrenaline is pumping…

Learning how to ground yourself will help you feel present and get rid of any overwhelming feelings.

Now about the sensation of your hands feeling like magnets.

This is a sign that you are clairsentient (woohoo!) and would be great at psychometry (the ability to read the energy of objects).

As far as seeing shapes and sparkles, this is a surefire sign that you’re clairvoyant, which means you connect with your intuition through images and visions.

Everything you are experiencing is a great sign that your intuitive gifts and mediumship will continue to get stronger!

9. Am I clairaudient?

Yesterday, I heard someone calling my name when no one was around. Do I have clairaudience? – Chloe

Hearing your name being called is a sign that you are clairaudient, and can connect with your intuition through sounds, music, and hearing intuitive messages.

Here’s some tips on how to strengthen clairaudience.

You can learn more from my Beginner’s Guide to Clairaudience. (It’s specifically for clairaudient beginners!)

10. What is the third eye?

I’m a bit curious if I have psychic ability. I had a reading and was told that I’m gifted and have strong third eye abilities. Well, I always thought that the third eye is like seeing ghosts, etc. Gilian

Clairvoyant ability is the most misunderstood psychic ability of all.

Also, developing clairvoyance is easy if you know how. Here’s a whole post about how to do so.

third eye definition

11. Can adults and children be psychic?

I came across your article about psychic children. Is it possible for us to still be psychic as adults? I think I am. – Advik

Yes, it is totally possible to be psychic as adults.

As young children we are aware that we are spiritual beings. Over time, though, if we aren’t encouraged to trust our gut, our intuition, and our inner voice, we forget how to connect with our intuitive gifts.

But those gifts are still within us, and with the right guidance, we can easily reconnect with them.

Nothing is lost and you can always reconnect with your intuitive ability.

12. How do I find support for my gifts?

I want to be open with my family and tell them that I’m a psychic medium, but they don’t believe in this stuff. When I’m ready to tell them I seem to lose my voice. I want to embrace and learn more about my abilities. Do you have any advice? – Anshirley

I’m always sorry to hear when people don’t have the support they need, but yes, I have advice!

For starters, I would encourage you to tune in to your heart and trust your inner guidance on this.

The most important thing is that you feel comfortable, so connect with your heart through a short meditation. What does your soul say? Go within and listen.

When you are ready to talk to your family, these tips will help:

  • Next, here’s a post about living with your gifts when no one understands. It’s perfect for what you are going through.

I’ve been where you are and am sending you lots of love. Keep shining and remember to enjoy the journey!

More Psychic Development Questions

I thought it would be super fun and helpful to include even more questions from the Intuitive Souls community. Enjoy!

Spirit Guide Questions

Need help connecting with your Spirit Guides? Here are my top tips.

1. Connecting with your Guides

I’ve been trying to get to know my Spirit Guides, but every time I connect, I get very emotional. Not in a sad way but in a way I can’t control. Is this normal?

Our Spirit Guides are pure, divine love, so it’s normal to feel emotion as you connect with them. It’s like crying when you’re happy.

Last month, I cried when my husband bought me an electric pencil sharpener. He knows I love coloring mandalas, and thought I’d like an electric pencil sharpener. It only cost him a few dollars, but I felt so loved that I cried.

Multiply that feeling by about a million and you’ve got what you’re feeling.

Developing your psychic ability isn’t like learning algebra. It involves the soul, so it’s normal to experience strong emotions like love and understanding.

2. Is it really my Guide?

Is it normal for a Spirit Guide to show itself in a half-human, half-animal form? Every time I ask to see what my Guide looks like, I envision a half-woman, half-deer…

We have self-driving cars now and Cheerios are gluten free, so anything is possible.

Also, have you ever felt drawn to Atlantis?

According to Dolores Cannon’s hypnosis clients, these gentle, half-animal beings were common in Atlantis.

Bottom line: if this Guide feels positive to you (even if it seems weird in your logical mind) go with it.

developing your psychic abilities - free guide and audio - 7 Real World Steps to Embracing Your Intuitive Gifts

Aura and Chakra Questions

1. How do I see auras?

Do you have any tips for seeing the color of the aura? I can see it for sure, but I can’t see what color it is; it just looks white.

Sure, but first, you should know that white can be an active color in the aura — so you could be totally rocking it!

Second, as you keep practicing, you’ll see more and more colors.

Third, before you do any aura exercises, try looking at a bright, vibrant image first.

For example, take a few minutes looking at abstract art on Etsy or Pinterest. (Abstract art is great because the colors blend just like the colors of our aura).

This is like stretching out your hamstrings before going for a run. Then, try this aura exercise.

Experiencing Fear and Doubt

1. Psychic protection

I’m experiencing visions and gut feelings which are causing me panic and anxiety. I’ve asked my Spirit Guides to only show me the images from the light and anything that is for my highest good. Do you think these messages are trying to tell me I need to take action to protect myself?

No, I don’t think so. You see, we have so much stuff from childhood (religious stuff, scary movies, etc.) that it gets ingrained in our subconscious.

The golden rule is:

If it scares you, it’s not from the spiritual realm.

To overcome the fear, I encourage you to work on raising your vibration by meditating, spending time in nature, or anything else that relaxes you and brings you joy.

I also recommend you repat a positive affirmation such as, “My gifts are from the light,” whenever you feel uneasy.

Your gifts are divine, and you will overcome this little speed bump!

General Psychic Development Questions

1. Am I on the right path?

Can you tell me if I’m on the right path? Some days I feel confident about my psychic abilities, but then I just feel that I’m being a fool. I’m not sure if I should trust my gut feelings.

Feeling doubt in your intuitive gifts is super normal for beginners.

If we were chatting over Chai together, I’d tell you that if you are called towards developing your psychic ability, go for it!

Dive in and learn more. Go with the flow and allow your intuition to guide you.

2. How do I know when my abilities are fully developed?

This is a great question and has a two-part answer:

First, psychic development truly is a lifelong journey, and you will always be growing. The learning never stops, and that’s a good thing!

For example, when I first started my journey in 2000, I felt like my psychic gifts were expanding every day. I learned so much about giving mediumship and intuitive readings, and strengthening my psychic clairs (clairvoyance, clairaudience, clairsentience, and claircognizance).

After that, I expanded my knowledge to the Akashic Records, meditation, chakras, crystals, and grounding.

In the last several years, I’ve studied energy and the importance of having a high vibe.

These days, I rely on my intuitive abilities as much as my five physical senses (maybe more)!

Now for part two of my answer…

You’ll know your psychic gifts are well developed when you trust them.

Feeling confident in your abilities is a great indicator that they are well-developed.

Bottom line: Developing psychic gifts is a lifelong journey of learning and growing. And that’s the fun part, I promise!

3. How can I develop psychic clairs?

This is another great question, and I’ve written a whole series on the psychic clairs to help you out:

Questions About Clairaudience

1. How do I turn down clairaudience?

I’m clairaudient and I’m hearing too much. It’s keeping me awake at night. How can I control this so I can sleep?

Don’t worry, this can totally be managed. First though, let’s talk about why it’s happening.

See, when you’re relaxed or sleeping, your frontal lobe (the logical part of your brain) is at ease, which makes it easier to connect with your intuitive ability.

In order to manage this, it’s time to start working with your Spirit Guides. These spiritual helpers are great at helping you manage your gifts and can help filter out the clairaudient impressions that are keeping you awake.

When your clairaudience feels like it’s too much, ask your Spirit Guides to “turn down the volume.” They will.

Empath Questions

1. My gifts are draining me

I would like your advice on something that has been happening to me since I was young. I’ve always said things I can’t explain, or I find people who need me the most. But as of late it has become very tiring.

It sounds like you are an empath (also known as clairsentience or psychic feeling).

These feelings can be tiring for empaths who haven’t learned to manage their clairsentient ability yet. Don’t worry, though. Once you get the hang of it, you will enjoy your ability without feeling tired.

It’s also important that you take note of who in your life drains you. We call these people psychic vampires, but they’re not cool vampires like in Twilight — instead they “suck” your energy instead of your blood.

Steer clear of psychic vampires when you can, and surround yourself with positive, like-minded people instead. Raising your energetic vibration will also help a lot!

The cool thing is that you’re here to help spread loving vibes into the world through your intuitive gifts. So, take the time you need and read my Empathic Survival Guide. It will help you manage your ability.

Energy Protection Tips

1. Sage smudging help

I don’t know what to say when I sage my house. I don’t like the word “smudging.” Are there any other words you can think of that I can use?

Yes, you can call it:

  • space clearing
  • saging
  • purifying
  • clearing
  • bringing in good energy
  • positive vibes

The most important part of the saging process is intention, so don’t worry too much about what you call it. Instead, focus on the sage cleansing your space.

As for an affirmation, you can use something as simple as, “Fill this home with light, love, and joy,” or, “Bless and purify this home and all who enter.”

Well, friends, that’s all I have for you today about developing psychic gifts. If your question wasn’t answered today, you can submit a question through my contact form.

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