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 2004. You don’t need specifics yet—focus on creating a spirit of thanksgiving. 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 as 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 2004. 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 the person you will be in 2005. The Universe will eventually fulfill all your wishes. Are your unfulfilled desires still important to you? Could they be holding you back? Maybe you now feel you 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? Let yourself feel the pain and rage at all the ways the past twelve months failed you. By unleashing your emotions within the safe space of meditation and journaling, you cleanse and heal your heart. In 2005, you will be excited and hopeful about new opportunities, rather than suspicious and fearful.
   
   
5. This is the step of “Forgiveness.” Forgive yourself for not following through on last year’s resolutions. Forgive the people who made this year rotten. By clearing the slate of your soul, you allow the capacity 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 2004 drifting into the past. 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. You make choices each day that build a happy future!
   
   
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!”