“Intention is a mental state that represents a commitment to carrying out an action or actions in the future. Intention involves mental activities such as planning and forethought”, say the famous Wikipedia website, from Harvard University Press.

Hopes and dreams begin with some intention.  You may or not be conscious of your intention.  From the moment you awaken each day, some sort of intention is set, and you begin creating your day anew.  Intention can be conscious or unconscious, depending on your choice and/or circumstance.  

You have the opportunity each day to be mindful of your intention(s).  Most often we live in a state of consciousness, says science. Quantum physicists describe possibilities for us similarly to ways the old ancients and indigenous peoples have always known exist.  We may in fact, be living most of our lives ‘unconsciously’ and when we are mindful, we are ‘conscious’.  In fact, some say that we live in about 95% of our time in the unconscious.

Setting an intention may happen anytime, daily, weekly, monthly, seasonally, at the beginning of a new year or cycle, a birthday, life transitions or anytime really.  Intentions may be related to any possibility you might imagine including work, school, family, relationships, health, losses, etc.

Use the Labyrinth to help you set Intentions:

First, clear your mind.  Take a few slow deep breaths and allow your body and mind to settle. Take a quiet labyrinth walk or sitting quietly in meditation or prayer, then walk the labyrinth.  Before you begin, quietly ask yourself: “What do I want for myself, my family, my work, my relationships, my….”.  

Listen to what comes.  Emotions may arise.  Allow your inner wisdom to speak.  Let those quiet whispers come to the surface that have been within you waiting for the opportunity to rise and be heard.  

Recognize what feels positive, supportive and loving.   If you are unclear of what intention(s) you want to set, do not fret.  Allow yourself to just be and make your best attempt to not judge yourself.  Maybe today’s intention is to just ‘be in the moment’.  

Say your intention aloud, say a simple prayer, or quietly think of what your intention is.  This may come to you at the beginning, middle, or end of your labyrinth walk.  There is no right or wrong in your process!  Trust your own journey!  Take time while you are at the labyrinth to write down your intention.  Writing things down helps give energy to move forward with the universe.

You may find that another way of setting your intentions works better for you; if so, great!  You know yourself better than me!  These are simply ideas to get you moving in the direction for setting an intention for your life.  

Trust your process.   This can be the one of the most challenging parts. Self-doubt and fear can easily set into your body, mind and spirit. Try your best to be patient and kind to yourself and with life.

Blessings to you on your intentional journey!