Shanaan M. Micallef 2010

Yesterday I had my monthly tarot evening and for the first time, Shanaan was allowed to accompany me. Until now, I had only worn it in my own four walls, in winter to plant myself on the couch or to test it on various people. So yesterday was the big day and I was very positively surprised. I have, of course, used incense for smudging before, and you really have to like it to endure it there; otherwise, the scent can be overwhelming.

However, this one is completely different… I still remember when I first timidly sprayed it on my wrist: I was blown away! Even now, it knocks me off my feet every time I use it! Right from the start, the incense kisses me, but it is a cold, fresh, very clean kiss, nothing to do with smudging. The patchouli screams: I want to join in! But no, it can only dance in the background and make way for the slightly woody notes. Something happens in my consciousness; I have a vision of the High Priestess, one of my favorite cards in the tarot… She represents, among other things, the unconscious forces that lie within us. But what does that have to do with Shanaan? He awakens a power in me and at the same time gives me an inner calm; I can concentrate better on what is essential. Yes, it would definitely be suitable for meditation. Even after hours, the cool (completely unsweet) incense note remains, though gently embedded in musk and amber.

As I mentioned, I have also tested the scent on other people. Neither on my priest husband (who usually can't stand incense but likes this one) nor on my mother or dear friend did it remain so cool. On all three, it became sweet and I didn't like it as much as on myself.

For me, it is definitely not an everyday scent; it is too precious for that. But when I need an extra dose of power and calm, it comes with me - no matter the season or time of day…

PS. I have never had such meaningful cards as yesterday - and that says something... :-)