People often ask what really happens when someone trains to become a medium. Is it strange? Is it frightening? Do people instantly begin seeing spirits? The reality is often very different — and far more beautiful — than many imagine.

For over five decades, I have trained people in spiritual circles, helping them to understand their own sensitivity and learn how to work safely with the spirit world. Yet one of the most difficult things to describe is what people actually experience when they sit in a protected circle for the first time.

No two people are the same.

Some individuals are naturally very sensitive to the world around them. They may instinctively pick up on emotions, atmospheres or even sense the presence of loved ones in spirit without fully understanding what they are feeling. Others may feel very little at first and slowly develop their awareness over time.

Interestingly, being extremely sensitive is not always an advantage. To develop mediumship properly, you need balance. You need your feet firmly on the ground. Spiritual development is not about becoming overwhelmed by experiences; it is about learning to understand them calmly, safely and logically.

At the heart of everything, however, is love.

That may sound overly simple to some, but in truth, love is the foundation of everything. When we sit in a circle, say prayers and begin spiritual exercises, we are creating an opportunity for two worlds to gently come together.

The very first thing we do in circle is healing.

Healing is not just about physical wellbeing — it is about sending love and support to those who need it. This simple act helps raise the energy of the circle and creates the right environment for the spirit world to draw close.

Recently, someone entirely new joined one of our circles. They had never sat in development before but had attended church regularly and felt drawn to try. Like many people, they were understandably unsure of what to expect.

As the evening progressed, prayers were said, exercises were carried out and everyone simply relaxed into the moment. Nothing dramatic happened. There were no theatrics. Yet afterwards, this person said they had felt more love than they had ever experienced in their entire life.

Why?

Because when we truly relax and create the right conditions, those in spirit can draw close.

Your loved ones in the spirit world do not disappear. They remain aware of your life, and many patiently wait for opportunities to come near. In a protected spiritual circle, where the right prayers are said and the atmosphere is calm and positive, they are often able to do exactly that.

Many people describe sensing a warmth, comfort or deep feeling of peace they cannot fully explain in words. Others may feel surrounded by kindness or a presence that feels familiar and loving.

Some refer to these energies as angels, shining beings, guides or simply loved ones who have passed. Whatever language you choose, the experience is often deeply personal and profoundly moving.

One of the most rewarding things about teaching mediumship is seeing people surprise themselves.

So often people arrive convinced they are “not clairvoyant” or that they simply could never connect with spirit. Yet, with the right encouragement, exercises and support, something begins to shift.

They may say a few words, sense an impression, or describe something they had not expected to feel — and suddenly realise there is far more within them than they ever believed possible.

Many go home reflecting on the experience for hours, amazed at what happened and what they may actually be capable of.

That is the beauty of a spiritual circle.

It is not about performance or proving anything. It is about gently bringing two worlds together in a safe, loving and protected way. It is about healing, understanding and discovering something far greater than ourselves.

And perhaps most importantly, it is about experiencing a love that can be very difficult to describe — a love that, for many, changes the way they see life forever.