Consent

The procedure is always the same. First, An greets the tree and introduces herself, just as you would approach a human on the street. Next, she asks if the tree is open to an exchange. If she feels a warm energy, that is a positive answer from the tree. In that case, An explains why she is with the tree and asks if the tree is willing to cooperate. If the tree is open to this, she offers Reiki.

Check

Each time, she checks whether the tree agrees with her proposal or question; if not, she asks the next question. The questions are always yes-no questions. To verify the answers, An uses a technique from NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming). She writes down the answers in pencil. Sometimes a story comes through.

Giving back

After the interview, An thanks the tree with a small ceremony. This can take many forms, such as a mandala of found natural objects at the foot of the tree; a ritual with tea she would otherwise drink, or sharing her lunch; improvised sounds, a drawing, a long meditative silence. The most important aspect of this is intuition. An opens herself up, focuses on her heart energy, and waits until a clear action takes shape in her mind; or until she spontaneously takes action without knowing exactly what it will be.