Readers Studio Survival Guide
Attending The Readers Studio can be a wonderful, thrilling and sometimes life-changing event. It's a ton of fun, too! But for some people, the swirling energy (psychic and otherwise) can be a bit overwhelming. Here are some handy suggestions to help ensure you have a great time:
Don't try to do it all — Just because it's on the schedule, doesn't mean you have to be there. You may want to, but it's best to monitor your energy and pace yourself. If you need to skip something or take a nap, that's what you should do. We have classes and activities scheduled from early morning to late at night to accommodate both early birds and night owls. You're certainly invited to attend them all, but please make sure you follow these additional tips if you do!
Hydrate! — Hotel air is notoriously dry. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids so that you don't become dehydrated (which will just add to any fatigue you may experience). We provide a steady supply of water and Emergen-C in the back of the room (or just outside the door). The latter is especially useful for keeping your energy up and boosting your immune system. Coffee and tea will also be served from time to time (see the Meals section of this site).
Dress Comfortably — This probably goes without saying, but we'll say it anyway. It's also a good idea to dress in layers or bring a sweater or shawl as the temperature in the ballroom may vary.
Meditate, Relax and Restore — Make sure to visit the Meditation Room at least once a day, even if it's just for 5 minutes! You may be surprised what a difference it will make in helping you to stay centered.
Eat — Food is very grounding. If you have a favorite snack, bring along a supply. Make sure you don't get light-headed because you got too wrapped up in something to stop and eat. This is especially important if you have blood sugar issues.
Breathing is Good! — Although the ballroom is air conditioned, it can sometimes be energetically draining to be in a closed room. Make sure to step outside the building periodically for a breath of fresh air. There are doors directly across from the ballroom, so you won't have to travel far. Even a minute or two will be very rejuvenating!
Tarot Ambassadors are there to help — These are seasoned Readers Studio attendees who know the ropes and have volunteered to be there for you and help you feel at home. Talk to them, ask directions, let them know what you need. They can be great friends! (Just look for the Ambassador buttons.)
Find an Energy Worker — The community is a great resource filled with sensitive, friendly, and creative people — and many of them are trained healers. Some will offer Reiki, qigong or other type of energy work for free, and some will charge a fee. Most attendees will know someone who can help you if you need this kind of support — just ask around!
Frequent the Readers Studio Facebook Group (20+) The Readers Studio~ Estd. 2003 | Facebook — It's a great way to get to know people before you arrive and stay on top of the latest Studio news!
Bring a workhorse deck(s) and a notebook because you'll be reading and absorbing for 3 days straight.
Toss a couple of trade decks in your luggage for the swap table. (Note: Tarot decks packed in checked bags are subject to search and possible damage. Always carry-on valuable decks!)
Leave room in your luggage because you will buy things you weren't planning to. A rare out-of-print deck you've been wanting that someone is selling for ten bucks, or a strange mask made out of feathers and porphyry or an etching that's perfect for your parlor.
Leave even more room in your luggage because you will take home more free decks and pouches and books and gifts than you can imagine.
Come with a couple questions/topics you want to have readings about because you will have people reading for you a LOT in 72 hours.
If you have a business card, bring a big stack because you'll want to be able to give it to people. They will ask and offer in kind.
Plan to take an evening class both nights and sign up early, even if you're only curious. The evening classes fill up quickly and they are often the most explosive and epiphanic and magickal. Seriously. Some of my dearest RS friends and contacts and experiences came from evening classes.
Enjoy Every Second — The Readers Studio is an unbelievable opportunity to meet, mix and mingle with people who are as passionate about the art of Tarot as you are. Soak it all up!
Integrate — The greatest gift of The Readers Studio is what you learn. Sharing ideas and insights with the readers in attendance opens new levels of understanding. The master classes offer many new ways to work with Tarot. All of this inspiration adds up to an experience that, integrated into your practice, makes your Tarot work soar to new heights.