Sunday, November 21, 2010

Let go with the Full Moon

If the New Moon is a time for growth and manifesting then the Full Moon is a time for death and releasing. During the days following the full moon, the moon appears to be decreasing. As it decreases, it takes with it anything that is no longer desired. It is a great time to release that which no longer serves us such as addictions, unhealthy relationships, fear, etc.

For most people, the full moon conjures up images of werewolves, zombies, and other scary creatures. Don’t let this deter you from using the full moon to your advantage. You can however, keep some of the drama of the full moon by using one of the quick rituals/ceremonies below or maybe creating your own. As always, intention is everything. Be clear about what it is you want to release. Start your ceremony from centered awareness. Meditation or prayer may be helpful before beginning the ritual.

Full moon ceremonies typically center on the elements so here are a few quick rituals for working with the elements during the full moon. Write down what it is that you want to release on paper. Then,

Earth - Bury the paper in the ground as a symbol for burying the issues.

Fire – Set the paper ablaze! This destroys the issues. Be safe of course… This works best in the outdoors – not near anything flammable…

Water – Submerge the paper in water until the paper dissolves. This symbolizes the drowning of the issues.

Air – Tear the paper to bits. Take your bits of paper outdoors. Wait for a hefty wind to come along and throw your bits of paper into the wind. This scatters the energy of your issues.

Try to stay upbeat and lighthearted during your ceremonies. I know this is contrary to the vision of full moon ceremonies but light-heartedness carries a higher vibration than seriousness. The higher vibrations will help your desired outcome manifest for you sooner.

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Manifestation: Creating Real Life Magic – Part 1

Manifestation is the process of consciously creating new opportunities and situations in your life. You can manifest helpers, romantic partners, money, or even more time – just like magic. There is no limit to what you can manifest if you start with a clear heart, mind and intentions.

I first learned about manifesting in the spring of 2007. I had gone to the Psychic Eye Bookshop in Sherman Oaks, CA looking to schedule an appointment with my usual psychic advisor. She happened to not be available so I took a chance on a spiritual counselor named Mary Beth Murphy. My meeting with her was fated. That single meeting changed my life and put me on the path that I am on today. She gave me an angel oracle card reading that was astonishingly accurate and detailed and also taught me the basics of manifesting. I am very thankful to her for introducing me to a new way of seeing the world. And, for introducing me to the work of Doreen Virtue who has since become my mentor.

Marybeth explained to me that Universe is waiting to hear from us. Every month during the new moon, we get a chance to plant “seeds” (our desires). As the moon grows, our seeds grow. Her instructions were to get clear about what it is I wanted and be very specific. Write down everything on paper in an affirmative way. For example, instead of writing “I want a boyfriend”, write “I have a wonderful boyfriend in my life now.” On the new moon, set aside some quiet time. Set the intention of bringing the things listed on paper into your life. Read what is written on the paper aloud and the universe will begin to bring these things to you.
Since the meeting with Mary Beth, I’ve expanded on her simple instructions through trial and error and research. I hope to share most of what I’ve learned in this series of posts.

First things first: Awareness

“The foundation for all doing is conscious being. That's the important realization about the question "what about manifesting?" Before we talk about manifesting, before we build some new building or structure, get the foundation first. Do you have the foundation? Don't start building a house without a foundation.” – Eckhart Tolle

In the quote from Eckhart Tolle above, he is referring to a state of presence and awareness. Before you begin to create, it is advisable to look at what you are holding in your mind and in your heart. Create a strong foundation within yourself before attempting to create in the physical world. Our manifestations tend to reflect our inner state so it is possible to unwittingly manifest seeming problems into our physical world. As always, I’m speaking from experience!

There are several methods for balancing the mind and emotions. What works best for me is Ashtanga-based yoga which is a form of moving meditation. I also practice other forms of meditation. Sometimes I practice ‘sitting meditation’ which is Zen-based. Sometimes I listen to one of Doreen Virtue’s many guided meditations. Sometimes I just sit quietly and focus on a specific mantra or color. But, most importantly, I practice self-inquiry. I’ve cultivated enough presence within myself to notice my reactions and patterns. Once I notice them, I ask myself “Why?” “Why did I say that?” “Why did I do that?” “Why am I feeling this?” Inquiry takes us very deep into ourselves and begins to uncover that which limits us. Once the limiting beliefs have been uncovered, they begin to lose their importance which frees up our energy and raises our vibration.

My recommendation is to begin manifesting awareness. Set the intention of wanting to create more awareness and peace of mind. Let the Universe know on the New Moon. Maybe use the following affirmation: “I am aware and at peace now and everyday.” Every morning, as soon as you wake, repeat your affirmation. You will be aware and at peace.

Next blog: What do you desire?