InvasiveThoughts.com

            It’s exciting to make resolutions at New Year's. But why do your best intentions often fall flat before February – or sooner? The key is to entirely release 2007 in order to make room in your consciousness for the fresh energy of 2008.

Subconscious sabotage keeps you from manifesting new blessings. Your lower self thinks what you’ve had in the past is all you’ll get in the future. Your soul, however, knows that bigger and better opportunities are always right at your fingertips. So, you need a sure-fire way to move ahead spiritually without tripping on old issues. Even if you had a stellar year in 2007, you must create space for even greater good in 2008.

            This 7 stage meditation process can help you let go of the past year and move into your exciting future. Center yourself in a quiet area for 15-20 minutes each day for a week, and do one step a day. Divide your quiet time between reflective thought and journal writing.

            1) The first step is "Gratitude". Begin your journey by thanking the Universe for the year 2007. You don't need for specifics yet -- focus on creating a spirit of thanksgiving. Gratitude helps loosen your grip on issues in order to gain new perspectives. This will prepare you for the release process and help you be receptive to the changes that are coming your way.

            2) The second step is "Good Times". Recall all the fun you had this past year. Meditate about the blessings you enjoyed, the positive people you met, and ways you helped others. Write down as many happy events you can remember. It is important to release the good, not just the bad, so you can make room for even more good stuff!

            3) Thirdly, focus on "Unfulfilled Hopes and Wishes". Think of all the things that you weren't able to accomplish in 2007. Maybe you procrastinated, or perhaps the timing wasn't right, or funds weren't available. Let go of old desires since what you wanted this year might not fit who you’ll be in 2008. The Universe eventually fulfills all your wishes. Are your unfulfilled desires still important to you? Could they be holding you back? Maybe you now feel deserve more than what you imagined for yourself a year ago!

            4) The next stage is "Disappointments and Difficulties". Here's where you can release all your anger and bitterness at last year! Meditate on what stunk! Were you fired from a job? Dumped by a lover? Never lost that 20 pounds? Unleash your emotions within the safe space of meditation and journaling. You are actively cleansing and healing your heart. You are also allowing the Universe to transform your sadness, fear and suspicion into hopefulness and excitement!

            5) This is the step of "Forgiveness". Forgive yourself for last year’s “failures”. Forgive the people who made the year rotten. Contemplate how lack of forgiveness would affect your future . . .and how life will improve if you do forgive. By clearing the slate of your soul, you allow for change in yourself and others. For instance, forgiving your miserly boss (while in meditation) may create a shift in your relationship with him/her -- and you may end up getting that overdue raise!

            6) The sixth step is "Release". See 2007 drifting away. You might even want to rip up or burn last year's calendar. Affirm that you are free from old fears and blocks. Declare that you are awake and aware in the present moment. Visualize yourself making choices each day that build a happy future! 2008 will be far better than 2007!

            7) Last comes "Completion". Declare something like, "It is done", "I am free!", or "Thanks, Spirit for helping me release the old and embrace the new!"

            Now you are prepared to accept the fabulous opportunities that await you in 2008. Your soul is always evolving. Don’t hold yourself back by not being ready for change. Meditation is the way to help your stubborn mind be receptive to spiritual growth!

            Aluna Michaels is a second-generation astrologer and soul evolutionist practitioner. She also holds a Masters in Spiritual Counseling and has been teaching and consulting for more than two decades. Aluna is available for appointments in her home or by phone. Call (248) 583-1663 or visit www.ascension.net/aluna.