Ambience

September 22, 2005

Ambience is important to me no matter what I’m doing. But most especially when I’m doing any sort of energy work such as pulling cards for a spread. Or just pulling cards for inspiration.

I like quiet, if I can get it. So that limits the time I’ll spend doing any intensive work with the cards. A casual draw to help make a decision or spark my imagination when I’m writing requires nothing more than a quick cut and draw. But if I’m pondering my direction, interpreting a dream or vision, or trying to gain insight into something important I’ll usually set aside some time and create the atmosphere I need to work.

Candles are important, because the flame helps me achieve a meditative state of mind. I like ones that are either unscented or naturally scented. If they are too “perfumy” it’s distracting and sometimes gives me a headache. Textures and colors must be soothing and comfortable. That includes my clothing and the surface on which I’m am laying the cards. Some folk are particular about the spread cloth. I have a black velvet rectangle I use. Whatever deck I’m using stands out nicely in contrast to the deep black. The feel of the velvet is nice and engenders a feeling of splendor and comfort that “slows” my energy levels down so I can ground. At least that’s how it works for me.

Usually I will put on Enya’s The Memory of Trees or The Celts. I also find Avec Laudenum by Stars of the Lid is especially good as is the first disc of their Tired Sounds. You may be familiar with Enya, but Stars of the Lid are not as widely known. They make ambient music that may not be for everyone, but I do enjoy it and it works perfectly for me when meditating or working with Tarot.

A bit of incense is nice if I have any. But it must be lightly scented. Smudge bundles are too heavy for me as is most commercial incense. A fine quality Japanese incense is best. Oil diffusers are nice because they impart the scent of the essential oils without creating any smoke.

If nothing else, a nice cup of herbal tea and some light classical music will work just as well. The important thing is my state of mind, and all these things are simply tools and aids to create right state of mind for any energy work, including reading the Tarot.

Posted in Tarot Practice