I'll be sharing this story, that I just wrote down, in my kids yoga class today at 4:15pm. We'll be using our bodies to act out this story in yoga poses. I'll invite you to share this story with a kid, or yourself, or someone else, and send a prayer out to the water protectors. They are asking for extra prayers at 4pm EST. 
#nodapl #waterislife
Right now, in the world, there is a beautiful river. This river is sparkling and clean. The water in this river glides over the banks of soil and rock, gently sometimes; and sometimes it’s very fierce. It’s deep in places and shallow in others. Fish and other animals live in the water, trees and forests and nourished by the water, humans drink from the water and children play by the water. The water is sacred to many living beings. 
Next to the river there is a big black snake that lives nearby. Sometimes snakes are harmless and beautiful to look at. Sometimes they are poisonous and not to be touched. This big black snake has poison running through it body. This snake is dangerous because the snakes’ poison could leak out of its body and poison the river and the water all around the river. And that would be harmful to all the living beings that rely on the river as a source of live.
Now, a very brave group of people lives by the river. They are an ancient people who are water protectors. And this very brave group of water protectors is trying to make sure the snake doesn’t get into the water. They were able to cut off it’s head once before!  
And as you may know, in stories, sometimes the head grows back. And that is what happened. This big black poisonous snake grew back its head! And it’s trying to get into the water again! Today the water protectors need extra prayers and kind thoughts because they are having a hard day and they need to be extra brave. 
Can you think of a kind thought or prayer to send to the water protectors? Or can you tell a story about why you love the water or how it nourishes you?

The new moon is about finding time for quite, setting intentions, finding clarity. It's a time to sit in the dark and be quiet and receptive. Honor the yin energy.
This is a short, 15 minute new moon ritual around a candle flame. Use this ritual within 3 days, before, on, or after January 27th to access the energy of the new moon.
Step 1: Find a candle and any other special objects you have that feel important. Don’t over think it. Whatever is supposed to participate will come forward.  You also might want to have a journal beside you.
Step 2: Set your space as much or as little as you would like with the objects you've gathered. A beautiful cloth to set them upon is nice to have. When you feel ready light the candle as you say a small prayer for inspiration.
            Great Spirit (God, Universe, Divine, or whatever universal force you subscribe to) I've set this space to recieve inspiration. Please share whatever inspiration there may be for me in a gentle, safe way. Or, ask for direction about what you should be focusing on for the next 2 weeks. 
Step 3: Listen. Sit for a few minutes (or more is you have them!) Is there an idea or question that is arising? If yes, great, work with that. If not, what are some of the questions or ideas you have that are surrounding you at this time? Work with that.
Step 4: Create an intention around that question or idea. Make a commitment. If there isn’t an intention coming right away, just write the question or idea down and set an intention to gain clarity or inspiration.
Step 5: Acknowledge and offer gratitude to the moon energy and yourself for coming together to create and inspire!
Step 6: Share your story with others and in the comments. I truly love to hear about what’s inspiring and challenging. Perhaps sharing it will bring clarity and purpose. ​

The full moon is a time to honor whats good, what has been a blessing, what you've worked hard to accomplish. 
Take a few moments to breathe deeply and offer gratitude for all of the blessing in your life. Sit by your altar and write a few things in your journal that you wat to acknowledge since the new moon.