FIRST STEPS

424 19 4

by ESBMMB1

by ESBMMB1

I completely sympathised when Sherlock wanted distraction banished. I need sense deprivation myself; eyes shut and ear plugs in. Sherlock’s pose is optional, but highly enjoyable as you do feel a bit of a badass.

For first-timers I suggest some classical music and to close your eyes. You might find yourself suited to different conditions; that’s just the way I prefer to do things.

Do prepare yourself. It’s a bit like meditation, a bit disorientating but oddly refreshing.

Decide upon your palace. For beginners it’s best to choose a real place you know intimately, such as your bedroom. Although the idea of having something grander is rather attractive, the caretaking takes a horrible amount of effort.

I speak from experience as my palace is Hogwarts. I have each subject divided into different rooms, though, so it’s more like I’ve a dozen different palaces rather than one. As it’s basically bullshit, you’ll be joining me for Philosophy in the Divination classroom.

UPDATE : Somebody disagreeing with the above, saying they prefered their imaginary palace; as do I. However, for beginners making their first palace the bedroom is the best practice in 99% of cases; once you’re more confident you can discard reality and head for your hills. Unless you’re completely certain that you can close your eyes and see Bilbo’s hobbit hole as clearly as the room you’re physically sitting in I believe it’s best to start with reality.

Picture your palace. Don’t worry about little items like books; all you need is a base layout. Walk around, familiarise yourself with everything.

Keep doing this until you’ve a concrete image in your mind which you can recall at will. It may take several days, but don’t fret. It’s a learning process; mastering your first palace is the hardest part.