Tonight the New Moon will be in the sign of Leo, focusing on cerativity, and opportunities coming to us. I like to do ceremony on both New and Full Moons - the New Moon for bringing in new projects, setting out the seeds, as it were. The Full Moon is traditionally used as a time to release that which is naturally coming to a close, or that which is no longer serving us well. Because the Full Moon has such tremendous energy, I use it not only for releasing things, but for focusing on areas that I need to make headway in, and honoring the abundance that is already in my life.

Tonight I will be doing personal (i.e. individual) ceremony to place focus on something that another family member is hoping to accomplish, as well as a major change of direction in my life. I will do this in a formal fashion - creating a circle, calling in the directions etc. However, this is not necessary to do. Each of us has the ability to create lour own version of ceremony.

Ceremony is done to honor and to place intent. It shows appreciation for the forces that we are working with,  creates a "memory moment", and helps us to focus on that which we are wishing to manifest (or, in some cases, releasing).

Start by defining what you wish to do. Tonight the energy of the New Moon is focused on creativity and opportunity. Where do you need creativity in your life? What opportunities do you wish to draw to you? Fix these firmly in your mind.

Set aside a space of time when you will not be disturbed (by the phone, family members, pets etc). If you wish, place soft music in the background (instrumental only), and light a candle (this is no tnecessary, but can be used for focus). Sit in a comfortable position (preerably with your feet flat on the floor), and breathe slowly in and out. Focus on your breath, and allow your mind to empty.

Build a mental picture of that which you wish to manifest, making it as complete and real as possible. Hold the image in your mind for as long as you can, sending it love. As you release your image, consciously smile.

Know that you have sent your intent to Universe, and that Universe will be working with you to manifest it.