The Comfort Zone - Setting Up A Space For Tarot Reading

Whether you read tarot for yourself or others, the environment can make all the difference in the quality of the reading. A calm, soothing atmosphere allows for an open, receptive mind, which is favorable for a good tarot reading. It doesn’t matter if you actually see clients in person or only do phone readings – the same principle applies.

The Office

I’m fortunate that I am able to have an office where my clients can visit me directly. I put my personal stamp on my place and it is comfortable for me. There is almost no place I’d rather be than my office (well, except maybe the kitchen!). If you are setting up a space for a tarot reading in your home or if you wish to rent a space, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Make it relaxed and welcoming. Beautiful pictures, homey decor, and plenty of light lend a cozy vibe. Have your table at a decent ergonomic height so no one has to hunch over it. Get chairs that are comfortable enough but STURDY (I have had more than one chair destroyed by a bigger client). A soft couch is a nice touch, especially in a waiting area. Candles can soften the atmosphere but are not necessary. Keep your office neat and clean. Clutter can be distracting – try to keep it to a minimum especially on the surface you intend to read on. (I’ll admit to being rather cluttery myself but it’s mostly books and I keep it contained well enough.)

2. Keep the temperature comfortable. If your office is too hot or too cold your client will not be able to relax. You may end up having to pay extra in energy costs but this is worth it in my opinion. I’d rather pay a few dollars to the energy man to ensure my clients are happy.

3. Some tarot readers frown on “tinkly music” but I heartily disagree. I like to have relaxing new age or classical music playing in the background. Many of my clients come here from work and this immediately soothes their frazzled nerves and helps to set a chilled-out tone.

4. Incense is optional. I keep this to a minimum as many people are allergic or just don’t like the smell. If you really must burn it, consider doing it an hour before work – and keep the window slightly open to get rid of the smoke. Because people can be sensitive to scents, you may want to consider NOT wearing perfume.

5. Pets can be adorable but also unpredictable. You may want to keep Rover out of your office to avoid potential issues. I have two cats and one happens to be extremely obnoxious. I’ll allow them down at times but usually, they get the boot if they become unruly – or if a client is allergic or fearful. Believe it or not, some of my clients actually REQUEST the cats sit in on the reading!

6. Avoid the oogie boogie thing as much as possible. In other words, you may want to keep your images and person rather neutral. Some people are fearful enough walking into a tarot reading and anything too “spooky” could be a turn-off. In my own office, I have many religious pictures from the 1920s (a nod to my Catholic roots and my favorite era). I always get a lot of compliments on them. But I also have a framed antique bisque baby doll that sometimes freaks out sensitive types until I explain to them that I bought it that way! And then there are some who actually prefer the gypsy witch experience and may be disappointed if you appear too “normal”. I’ve had a few that thought they’d walk in and I’d be wearing a turban….they were quite bummed out that wasn’t the case.

Phone Readings

1. Make sure you are in a relaxed place so you can concentrate. This means the baby is asleep, the dog is out of your hair, hubby isn’t walking in and out and the television is off. I find I need my environment super quiet if I am doing a reading over the phone. I want to give all of my attention to the client – distractions destroy my ability to focus.

2. Be sure the client is in an equally relaxed place. I learned this the hard way. I had a few clients who would call me and then spend half the reading yelling at their children or spouse. I now insist they schedule their appointment when they know they will not be disturbed. I need the client to concentrate as much as I am because they are not here to shuffle the cards!

Parties and Public Places

You will have little to no control in this arena. When you do anything at other people’s homes, you are at their mercy. I’ve done readings in freezing cold basements, sweltering bedrooms, screaming loud taverns, next to blaring speakers at a convention, and in a cockroach-ridden mouse-infested hellhole. I’ve learned to be flexible but now set some boundaries as much as possible.

You can do a little “damage control” by asking your client in advance what the area will be like. If you are doing a major public event, insist on a quiet table away from the action. Ask your hostess to put you in a separate room if possible. Some tarot readers I know even bring their own tablecloths, crystals, candles, and music to ensure they are able to set a vibe they like! As long as you and the querent can find a way to be relaxed, you may find that you can read your tarot anywhere!

Blessings!
Theresa

Image from stock photography

Where do you read tarot? What are your tips for creating the right atmosphere? I’d love to hear your suggestions!