Setting Intentions – New Moon Spell

Before the new moon is the dark moon. The night when there is no light from the moon illuminating the night sky.

It’s also just about mid winter – the deepest darkest part of our spirit struggling to find itself and to step into the light. We are struggling with our demons. All of us, no matter how positive and together we are most of the time, or what image we present on the outside.

Let’s not underestimate the moon’s powerful presence in our lives, pulling on the ocean’s tides, creating a rhythm of life for all of us. Once upon a time we felt a deep connection to these rhythms. The modern day technology and culture has separated us from those celestial vibes. If we spend the time re-aligning ourselves with the cycles of nature, we can experience a transformation. Tapping into the energy phases of the moon is a good place to start. 

A new moon is an opportunity for reflection and intention setting. It’s a chance to explore creativity as she is dark and “empty” – like an empty garden bed – fertile ground for new seeds of intention.

NEW MOON RITUAL

This ritual is simple, easy and effective. 

On the day of the New Moon allow about half an hour to devote to this activity. If you prefer, you can perform your moon rituals at night to fully capture the moons energy. If the weather is nice, it’s preferable to be outside. 

Choose somewhere quiet where you won’t be disturbed. 

Gather a notebook, a small glass of water, a white candle and a pen. 

Take a moment to think about why you are doing this. What are your intentions for the next month? There are no wrong answers here – but it’s important that we’re clear about what our goals are. Make sure it’s a personal goal, it’s all about you.

Once you are clear on your intention, write it down. Keep writing it until you feel energized, excited and maybe a bit scared after reading it. That’s when you’ll know it’s right – you’ll feel it in your body. 

Make sure your intention includes:

• Who or what you wish to release or is no longer welcome in your life
• Who or what you would like to bring in or welcome into your life

Once you’ve set your intention, it’s important to clear yourself and your space by burning a clearing incense or herb. If you are inside, make sure that the space has an open window or door.

Once you have lit your incense or smudge stick, blow it out and invite the smoke to envelop your body starting at your feet and ending at your head. 

While you are clearing yourself you can recite the following:

I cleanse my hands, so they create beautiful things.

I cleanse my feet, so they take me where I most need to be.

I cleanse my heart, so I can clearly hear its messages.

I cleanse my throat, so I may speak clearly.

I cleanse my eyes, so I may clearly see the messages.

I cleanse myself, and ask the smoke carries my intentions and prayers out into the universe.

Smudge the rest of the space. Visualise the stagnant energy leaving through the open door and window. Face north, sitting with the glass of water and the candle in front of you. Light the candle. Incorporate crystals if you feel drawn to do so.  

Close your eyes and concentrate on your breath. Slow, even breaths. Visualise an image of white light.

Speak aloud your intention. Notice how it feels in your body. Imagine how it will feel once whatever you put out into the world comes back to you. See it as already having happened and feel the outcome.

Continue to sit quietly, focusing on your intention and the feeling of having already achieved it. After a few minutes gently open your eyes.

Know that the simple act of gaining clarity around your intentions, creating space to focus on them and them sending them out into the Universe is enough, and detach from the outcome.

Keep your intention close by and look at it daily to remind yourself of what you are aiming for. If things come up that don’t support that intention, acknowledge them, know they are teaching tools and stay focused. Aligning with your intention is the easiest way to attract what you want into your life and connecting that energy with the energy of the moon is a great magnifier. 

Take the time each month to perform this ritual at the New Moon, taking note of your intentions and seeing how things progress. Soon it will become a habit and you’ll notice a shift in your body as you become more connected to the cycles of nature.