How do I cleanse and protect my energy before a tarot reading?

Cleansing and protecting your energy before a tarot reading is a personal practice that many practitioners find helpful for creating a focused and positive space. Here are some techniques you can use to cleanse and protect your energy before a tarot reading:

Cleansing Your Energy:

1. Smudging:

   • Burn sage, palo santo, or other cleansing herbs. Allow the smoke to waft around you, and visualize it purifying your energy.

2. Incense:

   • Use cleansing incense, such as frankincense or sandalwood. Allow the fragrant smoke to envelop you while setting an intention for purification.

3. Salt Bath or Shower:

   • Take a bath or shower with salt, such as sea salt or Epsom salt. Visualize the water washing away any negative or stagnant energy.

4. Visualization:

   • Close your eyes and visualize a bright, cleansing light surrounding you. Imagine this light removing any negativity or unwanted energy.

5. Sound Healing:

   • Use singing bowls, bells, or chimes to create soothing sounds. The vibrations can help clear energy blockages and promote a sense of balance.

6. Grounding Exercise:

   • Practice grounding techniques, such as standing barefoot on the earth or visualizing roots extending from your body into the ground, connecting you with the Earth's energy.

Protecting Your Energy:

1. Shielding Visualization:

   • Envision a protective shield of light surrounding you. See it as a barrier that allows positive energy in while keeping negativity at bay.

2. Use Crystals:

   • Carry or wear protective crystals like black tourmaline, smoky quartz, or obsidian. These crystals are believed to absorb and transmute negative energy.

3. Setting Boundaries:

   • Mentally set boundaries before your reading. Clearly state your intention to only allow positive and helpful energies to come through.

4. Mantras or Affirmations:

   • Repeat positive mantras or affirmations to reinforce your intention of protection. For example, you could say, "I am surrounded by positive energy, and only positive energy may enter."

5. Invoke Spiritual Guides or Deities:

   • If it aligns with your beliefs, call upon spiritual guides, angels, or deities for protection and guidance.

6. Use Protective Oils:

   • Anoint yourself with protective oils like lavender, frankincense, or cedarwood. These oils are associated with purification and spiritual protection.

7. Create a Sacred Space:

   • Set up a dedicated and sacred space for your tarot reading. This can include candles, crystals, or other items that hold positive and protective energy.

Remember that these practices are personal, and it's important to find what resonates best with you. Developing a pre-reading ritual can help create a conducive and positive environment for your tarot sessions.