Here are some suggestions to think about when
Deciding on your tattoo & How to prepare for your session.
- Deciding On Your Tattoo:
Intention:
Tattoos are a visual marker of time. Whether we realize or not they are infused with the memory of who you are when you get them, the point in time/culture in which you live, and the feelings/energy you and the artist carry when you receive your tattoo. It can be helpful to clarify your intention with yourself first and with your artist if you like. Not all tattoos have to be SEriOuS and well thought out, while some can be made very special if you choose so. In many cultures tattooing is a sacred practice done in ritual and with specific intention.
- Is there a memory you want to honor with this tattoo?
- Is there a change or transformation you would like to mark?
- Would you like to use this as an opportunity to heal or gain strength?
- Sometimes the aesthetic vision we have doesn’t line up with our intention. Your artist can help you to clarify this in a consultation. Be clear with your desires, but be flexible with changes. Find the right artist for you and trust them.
- Be patient with the process. Allow your artist to take their time with what will be with you for a lifetime.
Aesthetic:
Tattoos are symbols that emit a vibration that you and others feel when looking at them. Being clear about how you want your individual tattoos to look along with how they will compliment your whole body may save you from wanting to remove or coverup tattoos later. Keep in mind that your taste may change over time and that’s okay too.
- How readable do you want your tattoos to be from a distance?
- Do you want to be visibly tattooed or be able to cover them with clothing?
- Why are you drawn to the images that appeal to you?
- Are you okay with how this image will age? Tattoos (especiially linework & color) will change with your skin over the next 5, 10, 20+ years.
- Nowadays, many artists specialize in a particular style and have their own flavor. There is something for everyone. When choosing an artist, look through their portfolio– does their style match what you are asking for? When your artist is excited about your tattoo and can do what they do best, it will be a great experience for you.
2. Preparing For Your Session:
What to do:
- Sleep
- Eat
- Hydrate
- Avoid heavy drinking the night before
- Stretch. Sometimes the most uncomfortable part is staying still in one position for many hours. Stretch beforehand to loosen the body. This will make for a smoother session.
- Meditate. I suggest doing a body scan the morning of and releasing any tension or fears you have going into your session. Let go of your expectation of how the day should go. Trust that you will receive exactly what you are meant to in the right time. Ground yourself in your intention for the tattoo which will help you through the challenging parts.
What to bring:
- Comfortable, loose clothing that make it easy to get to the tattooed area. You may get ink on your clothes.
- Snacks to replenish your energy after losing blood / blood sugar drop. This can help a lot with pain.
- Headphones/entertainment. We can’t always control the environment of the shop, the music choice, being in a talkative mood or not so please bring your own headphones if you need to get in your zone. Feel free to bring a book or something to watch for those longer sessions.
- Blanket/pillow. Not all shops have the most comfortable stuff so you can bring your own if it will help. I tend to get cold and shiver during big sessions so a blanket is helpful! =)
For Tattoo Aftercare, please read on Here.
Kiya Gloriani 
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