We have become so accustomed to immediate gratification in our modern lives, we lose touch with our natural cycles and the time inherent in the process of change. We forget that a seed planted does not bear fruit the next day. When working with nature magic we are invited to tune into that rhythm that allows for all the steps in growth and transformation.

This ritual is best performed spanning two moons: the Full Moon in Leo and the New Moon in Pisces. Some folks like to reset their altars for each moon, some each week, and some for each change in the zodiac or each season. However you choose to set your space, this ritual translates the process of the thawing earth in spring, the preparation of the soil for the garden.

Part I.

This part is best done on the Full Moon in Leo.

Take yourself for a walk around your neighborhood, a favorite park or natural place. Set out with the intention to receive any messages from the Earth that are for you and keep your eyes and heart open. They may come right away, they may come in an hour. When something strikes you—whether it be a feather on the sidewalk, a rock by the side of the path, a mossy twig far away from its mother-tree—take a moment to connect with the object. What stopped you about it? Is it the direction it was facing, the colors, the shape? Stop before picking it up and ask if you may take it with you. Some things are meant for us to find, but not always for us to take.

If you feel like you’ve been given permission to take home your treasure, thank the treasure and the place from which it came. Take it with you and place it on your altar or in a special place near it where it will await Part II.

If you do not feel like you have permission, take a photo or make a quick sketch of the object. See if you can capture it’s essence in another way that leaves the object in place. Whatever form your rendering takes, keep it safe until you’re ready for Part II.

Part II.

This part is best done on the New Moon in Pisces.

Pour 1/2- I cup of salt in a small bowl or glass jar.

Place your treasure from Part I on your altar, and light some candles. Sprinkle some salt, either in a circle or thrown over your shoulders, to keep the energy clear.

Hold your treasure, soften your gaze or close your eyes, and take some deep breaths. Feel its physical shape, it’s form and construction. Meld your touch with the object and ask it to guide your intentions with its qualities and power. In the event that your object asked to be left behind, try to recreate its place in your hands. Try to remember, with your palms and your fingers, the weight of the object. Try with your mind’s eye to see it in your hand again. Ask it to guide your intentions with its qualities and power.

Find three to four ways that the qualities of this object can empower your life. These are your intentions for the spring season.

Place the object back on your altar

Pick up a seed and state one of your intentions.

With the care of tucking a child into bed, bury the seed in your cup or bowl of salt.

Repeat the naming and burying for each of your intentions.

When you are finished, plant your bay leaves upright in the salt.

This is your garden of intentions. Visit it, light your candles, and tend to the space.